Signature Dental
Holiday Foods that are Good for your Teeth
The holidays are here, and with them come all the joys of the season – lights and decorations, time with friends and family, and those special treats we only get this time of year. The best way to enjoy the holiday festivities and keep your oral health intact is to balance those sticky, sugary foods with some that actually benefit your teeth and gums. We promise it’s not as hard as you might think!
Fruit & Vegetable Platter
Every gathering has one! Not only do fruits, such as apples, strawberries, and kiwis, add some natural sweetness to your plate, they also scrub your teeth when you eat them. The natural fibers of the fruits combine with saliva in the mouth and help wash away food particles and stain-causing bacteria. Vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, and cucumbers also help clean your teeth and gums by removing food particles that can build up into plaque.
Deviled Eggs
We all have that one relative who swears their Deviled Eggs can’t be beat! This year, let them know that those delicious bites actually boost oral health. The egg yolks are a great source of vitamin D, which strengthens bone, and the selenium in eggs helps cure and protect oral lesions. Additionally, eggs have vitamin b2, also known as riboflavin, which plays an important role in preventing mouth sores and reducing inflammation.
Turkey
Often the holiday table centerpiece, turkey contains more than tryptophan (the nutrient blamed for after-dinner drowsiness). It also has phosphorous, which works in tandem with calcium to help produce strong bones and teeth. So go ahead and get your share of the bird!
Nuts & Cheese
As if we needed another reason to love a good charcuterie board! Not only are nuts loaded with vitamins and minerals, they also contain fatty acids and protein that benefit your brain and general health. Plus, the fatty acids in nuts help gum health. One word of caution – try to stick with non-cooked, unsalted nuts when possible. Cheese strengthens tooth enamel and increases saliva production. Bonus – the calcium and high levels of protein in cheese are also great for your overall health.
Salmon
Many holiday gatherings include salmon or Lox with cream cheese. Cream cheese has the same benefits to your health as other cheeses, and salmon is fantastic for your oral health. Salmon has vitamin D, phosphorous, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which improve teeth health and strength, gum health, and the overall health of your body.
Pumpkin Pie
We saved the best for last! Even though most pumpkin pies have a lot of sugar, pumpkin also has lots of vitamin A, which helps maintain healthy gums. Just be sure to brush after enjoying your piece!
Contact Our Team
As your dental care provider, we’re here to help you create and maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine all year long. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our dental team.
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Dec 7th, 2021
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5 Things to Know Before Choosing Your Invisalign Provider
Once you’ve decided to use Invisalign® to improve your smile, the next step is to select the right provider. When choosing any healthcare provider, it’s essential to do your research and not simply go with the first name Google serves up. There are over 40,000 Invisalign providers in the US, so it’s important to weigh factors beyond the designation alone.
Here are five factors to help you make the right choice:
- Experience
You wouldn’t feel comfortable having a mechanic with minimal hands-on experience replace the brakes on your car, nor should you consider a dentist with limited knowledge of Invisalign. Fortunately, Invisalign makes it easy to know how many treatments a provider has completed. Invisalign ranks providers in tiers from bronze to VIP based on the number of cases the provider has completed that year. Provider rankings are conveniently noted in the Invisalign Doctor Locator. - Technology
Certain technologies can make the Invisalign treatment process much more streamlined for the patient. For example, there are two options for getting trays fitted – scan or impression. Digital intraoral scanners take 3D models and bites of patients’ teeth in minutes, are much more comfortable and more accurate than traditional impressions used to fabricate Invisalign trays. Invisalign makes it easy to know which providers use advanced technology by noting it in the Invisalign Doctor Locator. - Online Reviews
Thanks to the internet, when looking for recommendations, you’re no longer limited to the experiences of friends and family. Once you have a preliminary list of Invisalign providers, it’s a good idea to check out their reviews, either on Google, Healthgrades, or another review system, to see what type of feedback others have shared about them. One or two negative reviews aren’t necessarily a red flag, but if you consistently see negative reviews from previous patients, you might consider removing that provider from your list. - Certifications
There are certain times when degrees and certifications are more important than others and selecting an Invisalign provider is one of those times. Research your provider to ensure they’re qualified and haven’t simply jumped on the Invisalign trend. - Atmosphere
How do you feel when you walk into the provider’s practice? Do you get the sense that they genuinely care about you as a patient, or do you feel like a number? The Invisalign process can take anywhere from six months to two years or more, depending on your individual treatment plan, so it’s important that you feel comfortable with your provider. You want someone who will be able to give you the time you need to answer all your questions and make you feel comfortable during the entire Invisalign process.
Contact Our Office
Choosing the right Invisalign provider can take some time and effort, but given that your dental health is at stake, it’s worth the effort. If you’re in the process of searching for a qualified Invisalign provider for yourself or a family member, please reach out! Our team is happy to answer any questions.
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Nov 3rd, 2021
11:57 pm
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3 Ways Dental Technology Can Alleviate Anxiety in Patients
If you’re one of the estimated 50-80% of adults with dental anxiety, chances are you’ve avoided or delayed dental care at some point in your life. Whether it be a routine cleaning or a more in-depth procedure, such as a root canal or filling, putting off dental visits often results in more significant issues down the road.
In the majority of cases, dental anxiety is a result of a prior traumatic dental experience. However, there are patients with dental anxiety who have never visited a dentist yet still fear the experience. Dental anxiety typically comes down to one or more of these root concerns:
- Fear of pain
- Fear of injections
- Fear of helplessness
Fortunately, there are many ways in which today’s dental technology can alleviate these types of anxiety.
Fear of pain – Laser dentistry is an excellent alternative for patients who are particularly sensitive to pain. Because lasers don’t cut through tissue in the same way that traditional dental instruments do, patients experience less swelling, tenderness, and bleeding. This less invasive treatment also prevents many of the sounds that can trigger anxiety, as the lasers are much quieter and emit a low pulsing sound that many people find relaxing.
Fear of injections – It’s estimated that at least 10% of adults have a fear of injections that inhibits their ability to receive medical care. Traditionally, anesthetic is delivered using a hypodermic needle and syringe. Though effective, there is usually some pain or discomfort associated with the initial injections, which can deter patients from getting the dental care they need. The advent of “The Wand” eliminates this barrier. The Wand is a computer-assisted system that looks like a pen and gradually pushes anesthetic gently into the gum. The device uses advanced technology to identify intraligamentary tissue quickly, allowing for the best possible injection results. The Wand also allows dentists to easily numb a single tooth without the rest of the mouth being affected, reducing the uncomfortable side effects of common numbing agents.
Fear of helplessness – The feeling of having no control over a situation is frightening for many. Sitting back in a dental chair, unable to see what is happening, is a vulnerable position that can trigger intense dental anxiety. Such an instance is where good communication between you and your dentist comes into play. When you feel informed and in control throughout a visit, you’re less likely to be anxious, even when you’re looking at the ceiling. Don’t be afraid to share your feelings! Communication is a two-way street, and just as it’s up to our team to ensure patients have all the information they need, the reverse is just as imperative. It’s vital that patients take an active role in sharing information, as well as concerns.
Since people tend to be more afraid of the unknown, we use a patient education system to give patients a visual walkthrough of the dental procedure so they know what to expect before they’re in the chair. Additionally, using an intraoral camera connected to a screen allows patients to see exactly what their dentist sees, which helps to further demystify the process.
Our team understands that while a procedure might be “routine” for us, it likely isn’t for our patients. That’s why we work hard to make sure patients are informed and comfortable at every touchpoint. We believe that though patients may not look forward to the procedure itself, the experience doesn’t have to be frightening or uncomfortable.
Quality patient care has always been at the heart of our practice. If you’re concerned, worried, or fearful of the dentist, our team is here to help. Take the first step by contacting our office.
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Oct 6th, 2021
3:27 am
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Tags: Dental Anxiety, Dental Technology
How Do Teeth Become Stained?
There’s no shortage of teeth whitening solutions. From in-office lasers to at-home whitening kits and snap-on veneers, there have never been more ways to achieve a white smile! But, before you order a custom kit or hit up the drugstore for whitening strips, there’s more you should know about teeth discoloration.
Not all stains are created equal, and the cause of yours needs to be taken into consideration when selecting a whitening solution. Teeth stains fall into one of three categories:
Extrinsic Stains
An extrinsic tooth stain is one on the surface enamel or outside of the tooth. Although it’s the hardest part of the tooth, enamel comes into contact with everything you consume. Over time, pigmented residue from food and beverages builds up and is absorbed by the enamel, creating a stain.
While coffee and cola are common tooth-staining culprits, any food or beverage with dark tannins can result in tooth discoloration, including dark berries, fruit juices, and tomato-based sauces. Additionally, some starchy foods, like pasta and potatoes, can also create conditions that cause staining. Porous teeth and thinning enamel can also increase the likelihood of extrinsic stains.
To help keep your smile white, consider using a straw when drinking potential stain-causing beverages. Rinsing your mouth with water after drinking will also help prevent stains by removing pigmented particles from the surface before they can be absorbed. The good news is that extrinsic stains are limited to the enamel, making them the easiest to remove. Extrinsic stains can generally be treated using regular dental cleanings and various teeth whitening products, such as whitening toothpaste.
Intrinsic Stains
Intrinsic tooth stains occur when dentin, the sensitive layer underneath the enamel, becomes stained. Common causes of intrinsic tooth stains include:
- Fluoride – Excess fluoride consumption during enamel formation can create brownish staining or mottling.
- Decay – Tooth decay appears as a greyish-black color that usually begins where the tooth meets the gum. Pulp necrosis (when the inner pulp dies) causes discoloration to the entire tooth.
- Medications – Antibiotics that contain tetracycline and doxycycline can discolor still-developing teeth in children (typically those under the age of eight). Additionally, some antihistamines, antipsychotic drugs, and antihypertensive medications are linked to teeth discoloration.
- Aging – As we age, the outer layer of enamel wears away, revealing the natural yellow color of the underlying dentin. Grinding and hard brushing can also cause the appearance of the teeth to darken.
- Tooth trauma – Nerve damage can cause teeth to darken or become discolored.
Since intrinsic stains exist on a deeper layer of the tooth, they are not as easily addressed as enamel stains and may require more extensive dental treatment, such as in-office whitening solutions or at-home tray-based whitening products.
Age-Related Stains
Age-related stains are the result of extrinsic and intrinsic staining. Your body changes as you get older, and your teeth are no exception.
Intrinsically, tooth enamel thins as you age, and your core tissue (dentin) naturally yellows. Together, these factors allow the dentin to show through, making it more apparent. When combined with extrinsic stains caused by years of tobacco usage and/ or consuming certain foods and beverages, even the healthiest teeth will show staining.
Similar to intrinsic stains, age-related staining affects the dentin of your teeth. So, more intensive whitening techniques used for intrinsic stains work best with aging teeth. It’s also important to note that professional cleanings every six months can remove stains that daily brushing and flossing can’t. These visits also allow your dentist to check for age-related dental problems like dry mouth, tooth decay, gum disease, and more.
Schedule A Consultation
If you’re dissatisfied with the appearance of your teeth due to dental stains or tooth discoloration, we can help. Contact our dental team to schedule a consultation.
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Aug 30th, 2021
1:20 am
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Tags: Stained Teeth, Teeth Discoloration
Are There Options for Repairing Severely Damaged Teeth?
Anyone who has ever experienced the agony of a toothache knows that poor oral health is more than an inconvenience; it negatively impacts your quality of life. Not only can damaged teeth cause physical pain, but they can also create extreme self-consciousness and pose significant health risks if left untreated.
Damage occurs to teeth for a variety of reasons, from disease and facial trauma to years of teeth grinding or a misaligned bite. Fortunately, dental advancements allow us to treat or correct even the most severely damaged teeth. Specific treatment options will depend on a patient’s circumstances and health history; however, we’ve outlined some common corrective procedures below:
Dental Implants
When possible, saving natural teeth is the preferred option; however, there may be instances where preservation is not feasible. For example, in some cases of overcrowding or tooth or bone structure loss, extraction may be the best solution. In these situations, dental implants will be a likely option.
Dental implants are essentially artificial tooth roots that create a strong foundation for dental crowns. Crowns are custom-made to fit a patient’s mouth and match their natural teeth. Many dentists and patients prefer dental implants because they offer the same function as natural teeth and help prevent bone atrophy in the jaw. Not only do today’s implants restore function, but, just as importantly, they also fulfill patients’ esthetic expectations. As long as facial growth and development are complete, dental implants can be an excellent option for those who have lost teeth due to injury or decay. They can be used to replace a single missing or damaged tooth or to restore an entire smile. Ideally, implant surgery candidates are non-smokers with good oral health, including a sufficient amount of bone in the jaw and healthy gums.
Inlays and Onlays
Also known as indirect fillings, inlays and onlays are used when a tooth has moderate decay, or there isn’t enough tooth structure to support a traditional filling. Using adhesive dental cement, an inlay is placed directly on the tooth’s surface. When more significant damage is present, an onlay is used instead to cover the tooth’s entire surface. Made of durable materials, inlays and onlays can last up to 30 years with proper oral hygiene.
Dental Veneers
Veneers are an excellent option for patients who have a tooth that is cracked, chipped, or severely discolored. They can also be used to close a gap or fix teeth that are worn down or uneven. Cosmetic veneers are ultra-thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin materials that cover the front surface of a tooth. Custom created to look exceptionally realistic, these shells bond to a patient’s tooth with a strong, dental adhesive designed to hold up to daily rigors.
Full mouth Reconstruction
Intended for patients with extensive damage to their teeth and mouth, full mouth reconstruction involves a combination of dental treatments to rebuild or restore teeth, gums, and jaw function. A full reconstruction plan can include any number of the procedures listed above, as well as:
- Dental bonding
- Dental bridges and crowns
- Dental fillings
- Complete or partial dentures
- Root canal treatment
- Periodontal disease treatment
Though cosmetic elements, such as teeth whitening, may be a treatment plan component, full mouth reconstruction is not purely aesthetic, and patients need to meet a certain baseline of health to be considered candidates.
Our practice understands that the thought of extensive dental work can be intimidating, but we also know that the results can be life-changing. Don’t wait until you can’t stand the pain to schedule a consultation. Give us a call today!
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Jul 31st, 2021
10:25 pm
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Toothbrush 101
The toothbrush is a staple of good oral hygiene, but owning a toothbrush and knowing how to use it properly are two different things! Most of us don’t really give it much thought; we apply toothpaste, brush, rinse, and move on with our day. Unfortunately, simply brushing twice a day doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Read on for some toothbrush knowledge you’ll wish you had known!
Choosing your toothbrush – If you’re using the wrong toothbrush for your mouth, all the brushing in the world won’t help. In fact, it might damage your gums or tooth enamel. When selecting a toothbrush, the size and shape of the brush should fit your mouth, allowing you to reach all areas easily, including hard-to-reach back teeth. If the brush is too large, you can damage your gums. Generally, a soft-bristled toothbrush is best for teeth, as medium and stiff bristles might be too hard on your gums and enamel.
Caring for your toothbrush – Selecting the right toothbrush is not a one-and-done purchase. While we wouldn’t go six months or a year without having the oil changed in our car, many of us don’t think twice about using a toothbrush for that length of time. To maintain your toothbrush’s effectiveness, it’s important to replace it every three months or as soon as it shows wear and tear (i.e., fraying). Additionally, what you do with your toothbrush when it’s not in use is also important. A 2012 study by Manchester University in the UK showed that more than 10 million bacteria can live on your toothbrush – including human fecal matter. In fact, as gross as it sounds, about 60% of the toothbrushes examined in the study contained trace amounts of feces. This is likely caused by flushing the toilet with the lid open, which can spray toilet water particles into the air. So, where should you put your toothbrush? The American Dental Association recommends thoroughly rinsing your toothbrush with tap water after brushing to remove remaining toothpaste and debris and storing the brush in an upright position that allows it to air-dry between uses. Routinely covering your toothbrush or storing it in a closed container creates a moist environment, which is more conducive to the growth of bacteria than the open air.
Using your toothbrush correctly – We know that using bad form at the gym essentially cancels out our effort, and the same is true when it comes to brushing. A common mistake is brushing in a side-to-side motion. To clean teeth more effectively and help prevent damage to your tooth enamel and gum line, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and make small circles. This technique gets slightly below the gumline for a more thorough clean. And, don’t forget to brush your tongue! Bacteria accumulate between taste buds and other crevices, which can lead to bad breath and potentially more serious issues.
When you brush – We tend to think that the best way to tackle plaque and avoid cavities is to brush immediately after eating or drinking. But it really depends on what we ate or drank. Brushing your teeth right after a meal is intended to prevent acid attacks; however, this only works if the acid hasn’t already started to attack your tooth enamel. For example, if you’ve just finished consuming something highly acidic, such as citrus fruit, the acid attack will likely be underway when you start brushing. This is problematic since acidic foods and drinks leave tooth enamel soft, and if you brush your teeth before the enamel has hardened, you may end up removing the enamel. To avoid enamel damage, it’s best to wait 30 minutes after consuming acidic foods and beverages before brushing your teeth. By that time, your enamel will be re-hardened and won’t be damaged by your brushing.
Contact Our Dental Office
Of course, you can’t count on brushing alone to maintain good oral health. Regular flossing, dental exams, and twice-yearly cleanings should also be part of your oral hygiene routine. Plus, our team is happy to provide you with a toothbrush and floss at your check-up! Contact our dental team to schedule your appointment today.
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Jun 29th, 2021
10:28 pm
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Save Your Tooth or Pull It?
If you’ve been experiencing tooth pain, your inclination might be to just pull the problematic tooth and be done with it! Unfortunately, it’s not always that simple. So, before you choose to extract it, make sure you take time to understand the ramifications.
Benefits of saving a natural tooth
When possible, saving your natural teeth is the best option. While today’s dental prosthetics are made to last, they simply don’t have the same strength as natural teeth. Not only are natural teeth stronger, but they also offer better functionality than prosthetics or crowns. Plus, your natural teeth will are more durable and easier to care for.
When a tooth is extracted, it leaves behind a gap, even those back molars no one sees. While that gap can likely be filled with a bridge or implant, it will not take long before your healthy teeth on either side of the gap start to shift into this newly available space. Shifting teeth can result in issues with bite alignment, which may lead to further damage.
It’s important to remember that even if the goal is to ultimately opt for implants, the longer a space remains empty, the more movement is possible. Realistically, it could be several weeks or months before your permanent prosthetic can be placed. Gaps in smiles can impact your self-confidence, and patients often find that they are reluctant to laugh or smile due to embarrassment over how their teeth look.
Fortunately, we have many ways to rehabilitate a tooth gone bad. Common procedures include:
- Filling a cavity to match the color of your existing teeth
- Root canal treatment to replace damaged nerves and preserve the tooth
- Lengthening an existing crown
When to opt for an extraction
While it is preferable to save your tooth, there are instances when an extraction is the best option. Your dentist will go over the best options for your individual situation, but an extraction will likely be recommended in the following instances:
Severe Tooth Decay – Tooth decay is caused by a build-up of plaque and tartar, which erode the enamel on your tooth, causing them to become brittle and weak. In cases of severe decay, an infection will likely occur, causing redness, swelling, and pain. When a tooth reaches this stage of infection, it is generally too weak to undergo rehabilitation. In these cases, tooth extraction is necessary and can be replaced with a dental bridge or implant to prevent future infection.
Gum Disease – Similar to tooth decay, plaque build-up is the primary cause of gum disease. Periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease, impacts the bones that hold your teeth in place. If left untreated, it can ruin the gums, bones, and tissues connected to your teeth. When this happens, the only solution is to have the tooth extracted and replace it with a dental bridge or crown to safeguard the other teeth.
Tooth Impaction – Tooth impaction occurs when a tooth is positioned against another tooth, bone, or soft tissue. This makes it unlikely that the tooth will fully erupt through the gums to reach its normal position. This pressure makes the tooth vulnerable to infection, which can cause pain, swelling, and redness, or bleeding gums. While impaction can occur with any tooth, it’s most common with wisdom teeth.
Tooth Trauma – Trauma to teeth, whether from a sporting injury or a car accident, can be extremely painful. Depending on the severity of the trauma, your tooth might be too damaged to be saved. This is often the case when the tooth has been severely cracked, and the damage extends below the gum line.
Overcrowding – Much like tooth impaction, overcrowding occurs when there is insufficient space in your mouth for all of the teeth. Not only can overcrowding make straight smiles appear crooked, it can also cause a lot of pain. In situations where overcrowding makes it impossible to achieve proper alignment, removing the teeth in the back of the mouth opens space for the rest of the teeth to grow properly.
Lack of tooth structure – Each time your dentist works on a tooth, they remove some of your tooth structure. Every tooth has its limits in terms of how many times it can be worked on before it begins to fail. By the time you’ve had several fillings, crowns, and attempts at a root canal, there won’t be enough tooth structure left to support a long-lasting crown. In these cases, teeth generally cannot be, or are not worth, saving and should be removed and replaced with a dental implant.
As you can see, deciding when to save your tooth and when to have it removed requires consideration. The most important thing to remember is that time is of the essence! The longer you wait to see a dentist, the more damage may be incurred to gums and bones. And, since implants require healthy bone, waiting to see the dentist can limit your options.
Contact us today, so we can assess the situation and discuss the best options for you.
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May 28th, 2021
11:04 pm
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Should I Be Worried About Tooth Enamel Loss?
As children, we’re taught that if we don’t take care of our teeth properly – brush daily, floss regularly, and watch our sugar intake – we’ll get cavities. However, as adults, we realize that there’s more to oral health than avoiding cavities alone – enter enamel erosion.
What is tooth enamel?
Enamel is the tooth’s thin, translucent outer layer. Harder than bone, tooth enamel is the first line of defense against decay. It protects the inner, sensitive part of the tooth, called dentin. Without enamel, the inner part of your tooth, which houses thousands of microscopic channels, is exposed and vulnerable to acidic substances, more susceptible to breakage, and can become extremely sensitive and painful.
How do I know if I have enamel erosion?
Enamel loss can show up in various ways, including discoloration, general or localized sensitivity, and teeth that more easily chip or crack.
If your enamel has started to wear away, you might:
- Feel pain or sensitivity when consuming hot, cold, or sweet drinks
- Notice a yellowish discoloration of the teeth
- Find that your fillings have changed
- Have an increased risk of more cavities over time
- Experience tooth loss (in extreme cases)
If you notice any of these symptoms or otherwise suspect that you are experiencing enamel loss, tell your dentist so the issue can be addressed before it progresses.
Can tooth erosion be reversed?
Enamel loss is permanent. However, depending on the cause and severity, weakened enamel may be treated with tooth bonding, crowns, or veneers, which protect the tooth and enhance its cosmetic appearance.
Enamel might also be strengthened through remineralization. This process uses products with fluoride, such as fluoridated toothpaste and mouthwash, to replace lost minerals and strengthen the enamel. The fluoride acts as a barrier between your teeth and harmful substances like sugars, starches, and acids, protecting the weakened enamel and your teeth.
How can I prevent enamel erosion?
As is often the case with oral health, enamel erosion is far easier to prevent than treat. In fact, your daily routine plays a significant role in preventing the loss of tooth enamel.
Your toothbrush – Using the wrong toothbrush can damage your tooth enamel (and gums). Generally, a soft-bristled toothbrush is best for teeth, as medium and stiff bristles might be too hard on gums and enamel. To maintain your toothbrush’s effectiveness, it’s also important to replace your toothbrush every three months or as soon as it shows wear and tear (i.e., fraying).
When you brush – We tend to think it’s best to brush immediately after eating or drinking, but it really depends on what we ate or drank. Brushing your teeth right after a meal is intended to prevent acid attacks; however, this only works if the acid hasn’t already started to attack your tooth enamel. For example, if you’ve just finished consuming something highly acidic, such as citrus fruit, the acid attack will likely be underway when you start brushing. This is problematic since acidic foods and drinks leave tooth enamel soft, and if you brush your teeth before the enamel has hardened, you may end up removing the enamel. To avoid enamel damage, it’s best to wait 30 minutes after consuming acidic foods and beverages before brushing your teeth. By that time, your enamel will be re-hardened and won’t be damaged by your brushing.
What you eat – When it comes to oral health, even “nutritious” foods can be damaging. For example, acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus fruits can have harmful effects on tooth enamel, so it’s best to eat them as part of a meal and not by themselves. Dried fruits, including raisins, can also cause problems because they are sticky and adhere to teeth, which means the acids produced by cavity-causing bacteria continue to harm teeth long after you stop eating them. It can be hard to know what to eat for physical and oral health, but as a general rule of thumb, if what you’re consuming is citrus or citrus-flavored, carbonated, or sour, it’s best to limit how much you consume.
Maintain regular dental visits – While we’re partial, visiting your dentist every six months is key to ensuring that your entire mouth gets a regular cleaning, including those hard-to-reach areas where destructive bacteria can hide. Seeing your dentist at least twice a year also allows them to track potential enamel loss or damage.
If you have questions about tooth enamel erosion or are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned, please call our team to schedule a visit.
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Apr 30th, 2021
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How Can Invisalign Improve Oral Health?
If you’re considering treatment with Invisalign® clear aligners, you’re probably focused on the aesthetic benefits – straighter teeth and a movie star smile! But, the oral health benefits of using Invisalign go beyond a megawatt smile. A popular option for patients with mild-to-moderate alignment issues, Invisalign has also proven to be effective in helping patients improve function and general oral health. In contrast to traditional braces, which consist of metal brackets glued to the teeth and tied together with wires and small rubber bands, Invisalign uses aligner trays made of smooth, BPA-free clear plastic worn over teeth. These trays focus much of the pressure on the upper part of the tooth, pushing it into the correct position from top to bottom, including the root. Invisalign aligners have been shown to alleviate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, reduce excessive teeth grinding, address early periodontal disease, and even improve the outcome of dental implant placement.
TMJ Pain
The most common cause of temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ) disorders is a misaligned bite. Invisalign is a discreet way to straighten teeth and correct instances of malocclusion, including cross and overbites. Though additional therapeutic options may be recommended, patients often notice that the pain they experienced before treatment is significantly decreased with the use of Invisalign, sometimes disappearing altogether.
Bruxism
While chronic jaw clenching and teeth grinding, known as bruxism, can have a variety of causes, the condition almost always results in damaged teeth. Over time, untreated bruxism can lead to tooth pain and loose or chipped teeth. In some instances, parts of the teeth are literally ground away, and the surrounding bone and gum tissue are destroyed. It can also lead to painful jaw issues, such as temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ). In instances where a patient is looking for relief from bruxism and straighter teeth, Invisalign aligner trays are able to address both concerns. Invisalign trays are designed similar to night guards, protecting teeth while a patient sleeps and preventing problems caused by grinding.
Early Periodontal Disease
A common oral health concern, periodontal disease can have a far-reaching impact. It has been connected to a variety of other conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis (scientists believe that inflammation may be the link between these systemic diseases). In its early stages, proper brushing and flossing are essential to combat disease progression; however, when teeth are crowded or unevenly spaced, practicing good oral hygiene becomes difficult. If left untreated, periodontitis can ruin your gums, bones, and tissues connected to your teeth. The impact of periodontitis is irreversible, but you can prevent it from advancing. This is where Invisalign comes in; whether used as a supplement or an alternative to a longer orthodontic treatment plan, Invisalign corrects dental alignment which helps to minimize the effects of periodontal disease.
Dental Implants
When a patient needs their smile restored, dental implants may be recommended. While today’s implants look very natural, it’s important to remember that they’re also permanent. The shape, position, and angle of an implant cannot be changed. However, the teeth around the dental implants can be repositioned and adjusted. As a minimally invasive option, Invisalign can be used before, during, or after the implant process to achieve successful, long-term results.
Before – In most instances, Invisalign treatment before dental implants is preferred, as it makes the process easier overall. This gives the orthodontist more flexibility before placing a permanent implant, although there are exceptions. For example, if your dentist is concerned that your bone may deteriorate before implant placement, they may recommend moving forward with the restoration first.
During – If necessary, you can get dental implants while undergoing Invisalign treatment. Your dentist will need to determine the correct order of sequences, keeping in mind that the dental implant will be in a permanent position.
After – Even if you already have dental implants, you may still be a candidate for Invisalign. Your dentist will develop a specific treatment plan to address the teeth around your existing implant and straighten your overall smile.
Schedule A Consultation
In the end, the most suitable orthodontic treatment depends on your specific oral concerns and the problem you need to have corrected. While Invisalign offers a number of benefits, it may not be the best option for you. To see if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign, please contact our office to schedule a consultation.
Posted by
buckeyescott
on
Mar 30th, 2021
10:22 pm
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Cosmetic Dentistry |
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Ouch! Do I Have Sensitive Teeth?
Have you ever winced with sudden pain after gulping an icy beverage or slurping a spoonful of hot soup? If so, you’re likely one of the 40 million Americans the Academy of General Dentistry estimates experience tooth sensitivity each year.
What causes tooth sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity (i.e., dentin hypersensitivity) occurs when tooth enamel wears away, leaving the dentin exposed. This soft, inner part of your tooth houses thousands of microscopic channels that, when left unprotected, allow stimuli to reach the nerves causing pain.
Some people naturally have more sensitive teeth due to having thinner enamel. However, in many cases, tooth enamel can be worn down from:
- Brushing your teeth too hard
- Using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Grinding your teeth
- Regularly eating or drinking acidic foods and beverages
Anything that leaves sections of the tooth exposed and unprotected can lead to sensitivity. This includes gum recession, tooth decay, and broken or chipped teeth. Temporary sensitivity may also occur after dental work like fillings, crowns, or teeth bleaching. There are also medical conditions that can lead to tooth sensitivity. For example, gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) can cause acid to come up from the stomach and esophagus, which deteriorate tooth enamel over time. Similarly, conditions that cause frequent vomiting, such as gastroparesis and bulimia, can result in acid erosion.
Symptoms of tooth sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity can cause temporary or chronic pain in a single tooth, several teeth, or throughout your mouth. If you have sensitive teeth, everyday foods and drinks can unexpectedly trigger a jolt of nerve pain. It’s common for people with sensitive teeth to experience pain or discomfort at the roots of the affected teeth in response to certain triggers, such as:
- Hot or cold foods and beverages
- Cold air
- Sweet foods and beverages
- Acidic foods and beverages
- Cold water, especially during routine dental cleanings
- Brushing or flossing teeth
- Alcohol-based mouth rinses
Symptoms can range from mild to intense and may come and go periodically for no apparent reason.
How is tooth sensitivity treated?
There are several at-home and in-office treatments that can provide relief to sensitive teeth. Depending on the cause and severity the sensitivity, your dentist will likely recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Desensitizing toothpaste – These contain compounds that help block the transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve. For best results, use twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Desensitizing toothpaste can also be applied directly to sensitive areas.
- Fluoride mouth rinse – Fluoride re-mineralizes tooth enamel, making teeth harder and stronger, which helps to prevent sensitivity and tooth decay.
- In-office fluoride treatment – Professional fluoride treatments come in several forms, such as gels, varnishes, foam, and highly concentrated rinses. While they work similarly to over-the-counter products, professional-grade treatments have a much higher fluoride concentration and may be recommended every three, six, or twelve months.
- A crown, inlay, or bonding – Your dentist may use these methods to correct chipped or broken teeth that are causing sensitivity.
- Surgical gum graft – When loss of gum tissue leaves your tooth root exposed, a graft takes a small amount of gum tissue from elsewhere in your mouth and attaches it to the affected site. This can protect exposed roots and reduce sensitivity.
- Root canal – If severe sensitivity is unable to be treated by other means, your dentist may recommend this procedure, which treats problems in the tooth’s soft core.
While tooth sensitivity is not uncommon, pain can be an indication of a more serious dental problem. If you’re experiencing sensitivity, please call our office. We’ll evaluate your specific symptoms and determine the best treatment to help relieve the pain.
Posted by
buckeyescott
on
Mar 3rd, 2021
2:14 pm
Posted in
General Dentistry |
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Tags: Tooth Sensitivity