Navigating the Path to Wellness: The Journey of Amalgam Removal

Embarking on the journey of amalgam removal is a significant step towards achieving overall wellness and optimizing oral health. Amalgam, a dental filling material containing a mixture of metals, has been a standard choice for decades. However, concerns about its mercury content have led many individuals to explore alternative options for a healthier smile. In this blog, we will navigate the path to wellness, exploring the reasons behind amalgam removal, the procedure itself, and the potential benefits for your overall well-being.

Understanding Amalgam:

Amalgam fillings have been widely used in dentistry due to their durability and affordability. However, the presence of mercury, even in small amounts, has raised concerns among patients and practitioners alike. Mercury is a toxic substance, and although the American Dental Association (ADA) asserts that amalgam fillings are safe for most people, some individuals may choose to have them removed as a precautionary measure or due to sensitivity concerns.

Reasons for Amalgam Removal:

• Mercury Concerns: Some people worry about the potential release of mercury vapor during activities such as chewing or teeth grinding. Though the ADA maintains that amalgam fillings are safe, individuals may choose removal for peace of mind.
  
  
• Aesthetic Preferences: Amalgam fillings are silver in color, making them conspicuous in the mouth. Patients often opt for removal to replace them with tooth-colored alternatives for a more natural and aesthetically pleasing smile.
  
  
• Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, individuals may develop allergic reactions to the metals present in amalgam fillings. Symptoms may include oral discomfort, swelling, or skin rashes.
  
  

The Amalgam Removal Process:

• Consultation: Before removal, consult with your dentist to discuss your concerns and reasons for wanting amalgam removal. Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and discuss alternative filling materials.
  
  
• Safety Measures: Dentists take precautions to minimize mercury exposure during removal. This may include using a rubber dam to isolate the tooth, providing a nasal mask for the patient, and using high-speed suction to capture any released particles.
  
  
• Replacement Options: After amalgam removal, your dentist may recommend alternative filling materials such as composite, ceramic, or glass ionomer. These materials offer both aesthetic appeal and durability.
  
  

Benefits of Amalgam Removal:

• Peace of Mind: For those concerned about mercury exposure, removing amalgam fillings can provide peace of mind and reduce anxiety related to potential health risks.
  
  
• Improved Aesthetics: Tooth-colored fillings enhance the appearance of your smile, providing a natural and seamless look that blends with your existing teeth.
  
  
• Reduced Sensitivity: Some individuals experience increased tooth sensitivity due to metal allergies or other reactions. Amalgam removal and replacement with alternative materials may alleviate these issues.
  
  

Navigating the path to wellness through amalgam removal is a personal choice that reflects a commitment to overall health and a desire for an aesthetically pleasing smile. If you are considering this journey, consult with your dentist to discuss your concerns and explore the best options for your unique oral health needs. Remember, each person's experience is unique, and personalized dental care is crucial in achieving optimal well-being.

Mastering Precision Dentistry: The CEREC Revolution

Welcome to our dental blog, where we delve into the cutting-edge world of precision dentistry, focusing on the revolutionary technology known as CEREC. In today's fast-paced dental landscape, staying at the forefront of innovation is crucial for providing patients with the best possible care. Join us as we explore how mastering precision dentistry through CEREC is transforming the way dental professionals approach restorative procedures.

Understanding CEREC:

CEREC, which stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, is a game-changer in the field of dentistry. Developed to streamline the process of creating and placing dental restorations, CEREC integrates digital technology with chairside milling to allow for same-day restorations.

Digital Impressions:

One of the key components of the CEREC system is its ability to capture digital impressions. Traditional molds can be uncomfortable for patients and may not provide the level of accuracy needed for precise restorations. CEREC utilizes advanced intraoral scanning technology to create detailed 3D images of the patient's dentition, ensuring a highly accurate representation of the tooth or teeth in need of restoration.

Chairside Design:

Gone are the days of sending impressions to a dental laboratory and waiting for the creation of restorations. With CEREC, dental professionals can design crowns, inlays, onlays, and veneers chairside using sophisticated CAD/CAM software. This not only saves time but also allows for immediate adjustments to achieve the perfect fit and aesthetic.

Same-Day Milling:

The true beauty of the CEREC system lies in its ability to mill restorations on-site, right in the dental office. Once the digital design is complete, the milling unit crafts the restoration from a solid block of ceramic material. This same-day process eliminates the need for temporary restorations and multiple appointments, providing patients with convenience and efficiency.

Precision and Aesthetics:

CEREC is not just about efficiency; it's about achieving precision and maintaining natural aesthetics. The system allows for the creation of restorations that seamlessly blend with the patient's natural dentition. The high-quality ceramic materials used in CEREC restorations not only provide durability but also mimic the appearance of natural teeth, ensuring a beautiful and functional result.

Benefits for Patients:

Mastering precision dentistry with CEREC offers numerous benefits for patients, including:

• Time Efficiency: Same-day restorations mean fewer appointments and less time spent in the dental chair.
  
  
• Comfort: Digital impressions are more comfortable for patients compared to traditional molds.
  
  
• Accuracy: The digital design and milling process ensure precise and custom-fit restorations.
  
  
• Aesthetics: CEREC restorations closely match the natural color and shape of the patient's existing teeth.

As we embrace the CEREC revolution, the world of dentistry is witnessing a transformative shift towards precision and efficiency. Dental professionals who master this technology are not only providing their patients with top-notch care but are also positioning themselves at the forefront of modern dentistry. The CEREC system represents a powerful tool for delivering same-day, high-quality restorations, setting a new standard for precision dentistry in the 21st century.

Emergency Dental Care: Quick Actions for Common Issues

Dental emergencies can strike when you least expect them, causing pain and discomfort that can be incredibly distressing. Knowing how to handle common dental issues in an emergency can make all the difference in preventing further damage and alleviating pain. In this blog, we'll explore quick actions you can take for common dental problems until you can get to a dentist.

Toothache:

• A sudden toothache can be excruciating. Start by gently rinsing your mouth with warm water to clean the area around the tooth. Use dental floss to remove any food particles that might be causing irritation. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage the pain temporarily. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum tissue as it can cause burns. If the pain persists, contact a dentist to identify the underlying cause.

Knocked-Out Tooth:

• If a tooth gets knocked out, time is of the essence. Handle the tooth by the crown (top) and avoid touching the roots. Rinse the tooth gently with milk or saline solution if it's dirty, but do not scrub it. Try to reinsert the tooth back into the socket if possible, making sure it's facing the right way. If reinsertion is not possible, keep the tooth moist by placing it in a container of milk, saliva, or a tooth preservation solution. Seek dental care immediately, as reattaching the tooth is more successful if done within the first hour.

Chipped or Broken Tooth:

• Save any pieces of the broken tooth you can find. Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. If there's bleeding, apply a piece of gauze to the area for about 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops. Use a cold compress on the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling. Visit a dentist as soon as possible to evaluate the extent of the damage and determine the appropriate treatment.

Loose or Dislodged Tooth:

• If a tooth is partially dislodged but still in place, avoid touching or wiggling it. Use a cold compress to reduce swelling and take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. Soft diet and avoiding the affected area while eating can help prevent further damage. Contact a dentist immediately for guidance on how to proceed.

Lost Filling or Crown:

• Losing a filling or crown can expose sensitive parts of your tooth and cause discomfort. While waiting to see a dentist, you can use dental cement (available at most drugstores) to temporarily cover the exposed area. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the restoration is missing. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to have the restoration replaced or repaired.

Handling dental emergencies requires a calm approach and quick action. While these tips can provide temporary relief, it's essential to seek professional dental care as soon as possible. Keep your dentist's contact information handy and consider establishing a plan for emergency dental care. Remember, prevention is key—maintain good oral hygiene practices and attend regular dental check-ups to minimize the risk of dental emergencies.

A Relaxing Guide to Sedation Dentistry: Overcoming Dental Anxiety

Visiting the dentist is a vital aspect of maintaining oral health, but for many individuals, the thought of sitting in the dentist's chair can trigger intense anxiety. Dental anxiety is a common issue that affects people of all ages and backgrounds, preventing them from receiving the necessary dental care. Fortunately, sedation dentistry offers a calming solution that allows patients to overcome their dental fears and receive the treatment they need. In this guide, we will explore the benefits of sedation dentistry and how it can help you overcome dental anxiety, ensuring a relaxed and stress-free dental experience.

Understanding Dental Anxiety:

Dental anxiety is a legitimate concern that can stem from various sources, including past traumatic dental experiences, fear of needles, the sound of dental instruments, or simply the unknown. This anxiety can lead to avoidance of dental appointments, which, in turn, results in deteriorating oral health. Sedation dentistry is a valuable tool for managing dental anxiety, as it promotes a sense of relaxation and calmness throughout the dental procedure.

The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry:

• Reduced Anxiety: One of the primary benefits of sedation dentistry is its ability to significantly reduce anxiety. Different levels of sedation can be utilized based on the patient's comfort level and the complexity of the procedure. From mild sedation that helps you relax to deep sedation that induces a sleep-like state, these options cater to various needs.
  
  
• Pain Management: Sedation dentistry is not only about relaxation; it also offers effective pain management. Patients who are anxious about experiencing pain during a dental procedure can benefit from sedation, as they will be in a state of relaxation where discomfort is minimized.
  
  
• Time Efficiency: Dental anxiety often leads to longer appointment times due to the need for breaks and pauses. With sedation dentistry, procedures that might have taken multiple appointments can often be completed in a single session, thanks to the patient's relaxed state.
  
  
• Improved Treatment Outcomes: The calm environment created by sedation allows dentists to work more efficiently and precisely. This often leads to improved treatment outcomes and reduces the risk of complications arising from anxious movements.

Types of Sedation Dentistry:

• Nitrous Oxide: Commonly known as "laughing gas," nitrous oxide is a mild sedative inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. It induces a sense of relaxation and eases anxiety during the procedure.
  
  
• Oral Sedation: This involves taking prescribed medication before the appointment to induce a higher level of relaxation. While patients remain conscious, they often have little memory of the procedure afterward.
  
  
• IV Sedation: Intravenous (IV) sedation is administered through a vein, inducing a deeper state of relaxation. Patients under IV sedation are still responsive but are less aware of their surroundings.
  
  
• General Anesthesia: In cases of extreme dental anxiety or complex procedures, general anesthesia may be used. This places the patient in a state of deep sleep, and they will wake up after the procedure is complete.

Preparing for a Sedation Dentistry Appointment:

• Consultation: Before opting for sedation dentistry, it's crucial to have a consultation with your dentist. They will evaluate your health history, current medications, and overall health to determine the most suitable sedation option for you.
  
  
• Fasting: Depending on the type of sedation, your dentist might advise you to fast for a specific period before the procedure.
  
  
• Transportation: Since sedation can affect your ability to drive, it's important to arrange for someone to accompany you to and from the appointment.

Sedation dentistry offers a gateway for individuals struggling with dental anxiety to receive the necessary oral care. By understanding the benefits and various types of sedation available, you can work with your dentist to choose the best option that aligns with your anxiety level and the complexity of the procedure. Remember, overcoming dental anxiety is possible, and sedation dentistry can pave the way for a relaxed and stress-free dental experience, ensuring your oral health remains a top priority.

The role of mindfulness in holistic dental care

Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the moment, without judgment or distraction. While it may seem unrelated to dental care, mindfulness can actually play a significant role in promoting overall health and wellness, including dental health.

One way that mindfulness can impact dental health is through stress reduction. Chronic stress can lead to a variety of oral health issues, including gum disease, tooth decay, and even jaw pain or grinding. By incorporating mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga into their daily routine, individuals can reduce stress levels and promote better dental health.

Mindfulness can also help individuals become more aware of their oral health habits, such as brushing and flossing. By being fully present during these activities, individuals can ensure that they are performing them correctly and thoroughly, reducing the risk of dental issues such as cavities or gum disease.

In addition to promoting better dental health, mindfulness can also enhance the overall dental experience. By staying present and focused during dental appointments, individuals can reduce anxiety and discomfort, making the experience more positive and enjoyable.

Holistic dentists often incorporate mindfulness techniques into their practice, recognizing the important role that mental and emotional wellbeing plays in overall health. By helping patients become more mindful and present in their daily lives, holistic dentists can promote better dental health and overall wellness for their patients.

The role of mindfulness in holistic dental care cannot be overstated. By incorporating mindfulness techniques into their daily routine and seeking out holistic dental care, individuals can improve their dental health and overall wellbeing.

The Dental Implant Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide

Dental implants are a popular solution for people who have lost one or more teeth. If you're considering dental implants, you may be wondering what to expect during the procedure. Here's a step-by-step guide to the dental implant procedure:

Step 1: Consultation and Examination

The first step in the dental implant procedure is a consultation with your dentist. They will examine your mouth and jaw to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. This may involve taking x-rays or other imaging tests.

Step 2: Implant Placement

Once you have been deemed a good candidate for dental implants, the next step is the implant placement surgery. During this surgery, your dentist will make an incision in your gums and drill a small hole in your jawbone. They will then insert the implant into the hole and close the incision with sutures.

Step 3: Osseointegration

After the implant has been placed, it will take several months for it to fuse with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. During this time, you will need to avoid putting any pressure on the implant to allow it to heal properly.

Step 4: Abutment Placement

Once the implant has fully fused with your jawbone, your dentist will place an abutment on top of the implant. This serves as a connector between the implant and the artificial tooth or teeth.

Step 5: Tooth Restoration

Finally, your dentist will attach the custom-made artificial tooth or teeth to the abutment. These teeth are designed to look and function like natural teeth, so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

The dental implant procedure involves several steps, including a consultation and examination, implant placement surgery, osseointegration, abutment placement, and tooth restoration. Your dentist will guide you through each step of the process and help you achieve a beautiful, functional smile with dental implants.

Making the most of your smile

Your smile is a major factor in the impression people get when they meet you.

And the good news is that you now don’t have to settle for a smile spoiled by stained, chipped, or misshapen teeth.

Advances in dental treatment mean there is a wide range of choices to help you get the smile that you want. Here are some of the options:
– Tooth whitening (bleaching) can help brighten teeth that have become discolored or stained. It can be done in the dental office or with a system the dentist can give you to use at home
– Bonding improves the appearance of teeth that have become chipped, broken, cracked or stained. This is done by bonding tooth-colored materials to the tooth surface
– Enamel shaping involves modifying teeth to improve their appearance by removing or contouring enamel
– Veneers are thin custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front side of teeth. They are used to treat spaces between teeth and teeth that are chipped, stained or poorly shaped.
– Braces may be needed if teeth are crooked, crowded or do not meet properly – and not just for kids

Even small changes can have a big impact on your smile and so make a huge difference to how you look and how you feel about yourself.

If you’d like an even better smile, your dentist will be able to give you information about the options available.

Whats involved in getting a dental implant?

Dental implants are increasingly popular as a way to replace missing or damaged teeth.

Their great advantage is that they look natural and feel secure helping you to restore your smile and eat more easily.

Implants are an ideal solution for many people but they are not an option for everyone.

Placing implants requires some surgery so patients must be in good health, have healthy gums and have adequate bone to support the implant.

They must also be committed to taking action to maintain their oral hygiene and to visiting the dentist regularly.

The process for placing implants is as follows:

First, surgery is performed to place the anchor. This can take up to several hours. Following the surgery, you may need to wait up to six months for the bone to grow around the anchor and firmly hold it in place. Sometimes follow up surgery is required to attach a post to connect the anchor to the replacement teeth. Alternatively, the anchor and post may already be attached and are placed at the same time.

After the gums have had several weeks to heal, the next step is to fit specially-made artificial teeth to the post portion of the anchor. This can take a few weeks to complete as several fittings may be required.

Implant surgery can be done either in a dental office or in a hospital, depending upon a number of factors. A local or general anesthetic may be used. Usually pain medications and, when necessary, antibiotics are prescribed.

After your implants are fitted, your dentist will give you tips and advice on maintaining your oral hygiene.

Your dentist can help you decide whether you would be a good candidate for implants.

Is bottled or tap water better for your teeth?

With many people concerned about the taste and purity of tap water, the sales of bottled water have increased significantly in recent years.

Tap water goes through a process of purification designed to eliminate suspended materials, remove tastes and odors and kill microorganisms.

Fluoride is added to most tap water supplies with the aim of reducing cavities.

Fluoride becomes incorporated into our teeth as they develop and makes them more resistant to decay. It can reverse the progress of early cavities and reduce the need for dental treatment.

Mass water fluoridation has played an important role in reducing tooth decay.

The problem with bottled waters is that they usually don’t contain fluoride.

So there is a risk that drinking bottled water can increase the risk of cavities for some people.

If you drink a lot of bottled water, you can make up for this by using fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse.

Your dentist may even suggest a fluoride supplement if they notice an increase in cavities.

Taking steps to stop oral cancer before its too late

Oral cancer hits more than 30,000 Americans every year but you can minimize the risk by taking steps to ensure its caught early enough.

The first indications of oral cancer may be a very small, but dangerous, oral spot or sore that you are not even aware of.

In a routine examination, your dentist will carefully examine the inside of your mouth and tongue.

If they notice a flat, painless, white or red spot or a small sore, this may be completely harmless. But harmful spots or sores often look the same as harmless ones.

To ensure that a spot or sore is not dangerous, your dentist may choose to perform a simple test, such as a brush test. This collects cells from the lesion which can them be analyzed.

Any positive results from a brush test must usually be confirmed by a biopsy before deciding the next step.

If precancerous cells are found, the lesion can be surgically removed if necessary during a separate procedure.

When caught early enough, the chances of preventing the cancer developing are high but only half of those diagnosed survive more than five years.

Thats why regular dental examinations are so important for your overall health and not just to have good teeth.

Maintaining proper nutrition as an older adult

Maintaining proper nutrition is important for everyone, young or old but many older adults find it difficult to eat a balanced diet.

They may avoid meats, raw vegetables and fresh fruits because they have trouble chewing or swallowing.

These problems can be caused by painful teeth, ill-fitting dentures, dry mouth or changes in facial muscles.

Others find their sense of taste has changed, sometimes due to a disease or certain medications.

As a result, older adults often have diets lacking in calcium, protein and other nutrients essential to dental and overall health.

A balanced diet has to be based on the five food groups:
– Milk and dairy products
– Breads and cereals
– Meats and dried beans
– Fruits
– Vegetables

Sometimes a multi-vitamin or mineral supplement will help but it’s best to use supplements only after discussion with your physician.

If your teeth are stopping you from eating the food you enjoy – or that you need for good health – your dentist will be able to help you find a solution.

How scaling and planing can help clean your teeth properly

Dental plaque is a film that builds up on your teeth and, if it is not removed through good oral hygiene, it can lead to tooth decay and gum problems.

Over time it can ultimately form a hard, rough sediment known as dental tartar or calculus, which attracts further plaque buildup.

Calculus has to be removed by a trained professional such as a hygienist or dentist.

They may do this by manual tooth scaling or using an ultrasonic device.

If the buildup is light or moderate, the dentist or hygienist may use manual scaling instruments of various shapes and sizes.

If the buildup of tartar and stains is heavy, an ultrasonic cleaner may be used. This may be followed by hand scaling.

Build up of plaque can cause inflammation of the gums leading to breakdown of the connection between the teeth and the supporting structures.

Root planing is a procedure to treat gum disease by thoroughly scaling the roots of teeth to establish a smooth, calculus-free surface.

This treatment may require local anesthesia to prevent pain. Thorough periodontal scaling customarily involves several dental visits

If conditions are more advanced, surgery may be needed for complete debridement of the roots to arrest the disease process.

Some people tend to have more buildup of calculus than others and some may be more prone to periodontal inflammation or the development of tooth decay.

It’s therefore important to follow your hygienist’s advivce on how often to return for regular cleanings – even if your insurance only covers two a year.

Diabetes and your dental health: How your diet can affect your teeth

When diabetes is not controlled properly, high glucose levels in saliva may create problems that lead to an increased risk of tooth decay.

Your teeth are covered with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria. After you eat food that contains sugars or starches, the bacteria react with these sugars to release acids that attack tooth enamel. This can cause the enamel to break down and may eventually result in cavities.

Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth with floss or an interdental cleaner helps remove decay-causing plaque.

Plaque that is not removed can eventually harden into calculus, or tartar. When tartar collects above the gumline, it becomes more difficult to clean thoroughly between teeth. This can lead to chronic inflammation and infection in the mouth.

Because diabetes reduces the bodys resistance to infection, the gums are among the tissues likely to be affected.
Periodontal diseases are infections of the gum and bone that hold your teeth in place. Patients with inadequate blood sugar control appear to develop periodontal disease more often and more severely, and they lose more teeth than those who have good control of their diabetes.

Because of the lower resistance and longer healing process, periodontal diseases often appear to be more frequent and more severe among persons with diabetes.

You can help reduce these risks through good maintenance of blood sugar levels, a well-balanced diet, good oral care at home and regular dental checkups.

How smoking affects your teeth

While the general effects of smoking on your health are well-known, it can also have significant effects on your oral health.

Here are some of the ways smoking can harm your oral health and hygiene:

– Oral Cancer
– Periodontal (gum) disease
– Delayed healing after a tooth extraction or other oral surgery
– Bad breath
– Stained teeth and tongue
– Diminished sense of taste and smell

Research suggests that smoking may be responsible for almost 75% of adult gum disease.

Tobacco products damage your gum tissue by affecting the attachment of bone and soft tissue to your teeth. One effect is receding gums which expose the tooth roots and increase your risk of tooth decay or to sensitivity to hot and cold in these unprotected areas.

Cigar smoking is equally a major risk and even smokeless tobacco products contain a variety of toxins associated with cancer. Smokeless tobacco can also irritate your gum tissue.

Giving up smoking will provide a significant boost to your oral health as well as giving you the chance to live longer.

How mouth protectors can save your teeth

If you take part in sports that carry a significant risk of injury, you should wear a mouth protector.

Accidents can happen during any physical activity and, if you participate in sports such as football, hockey, basketball, baseball, gymnastics and volleyball, you might be grateful for the extra protection one day.

Something as simple as a misdirected elbow in a game, or a spill off a bicycle, can leave you with chipped or broken teeth, nerve damage to a tooth or even tooth loss.

Mouth protectors usually cover the upper teeth and they can cushion the effect of a blow to the face, reducing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth.

In addition, if you wear dental appliances such as braces on your lower jaw, your dentist may suggest a mouth protector for these teeth as well.

A properly fitted mouth protector will stay in place while you are wearing it, making it easy for you to talk and breathe. The three main types of mouth protectors are:

Stock: These are inexpensive and come ready to wear. But they often dont fit very well and they can be bulky making breathing and talking difficult.

Boil and bite: These can also be bought at many sport stores and may fit better than stock mouth protectors. You first soften them in water, then insert them and allow them to adapt to the shape of your mouth.

Custom-fitted: Protectors that are specially made for you by your dentist are more expensive but are likely to fit better than one you buy off the shelf.

Choosing to wear the right mouth protector can help you avoid serious long-term damage to your teeth and mouth.

Treating Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive teeth is a common problem that causes many people to feel discomfort with hot or cold foods and drinks.

It can also make it uncomfortable to brush or floss the teeth and therefore can lead to further oral problems.

However, sensitive teeth can be treated.

If you suffer from this, your dentist may suggest that you try a desensitizing toothpaste, which contains compounds that help block transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve.

For desensitizing toothpaste to work, you normally have to make several applications.

If the desensitizing toothpaste does not help, your dentist may suggest further solutions.

For example, fluoride gel – which strengthens tooth enamel and reduces the transmission of sensations – may be applied to the sensitive areas of the teeth.

If the sensitivity is caused by receding gums, your dentist may use bonding agents that “seal” the sensitive teeth.

The sealer is usually made of a plastic material.

If there is severe hypersensitivity which cannot be treated by other means, there is the option of endodontic (root canal) treatment.

Sensitive teeth is a problem that can stop you enjoying your food but is one that can often be solved.

What to do if you have problems with your dentist

Choosing the right dentist for your needs is an important part of giving yourself the best oral health possible.

Sometimes you may find that things are not working out for the best and it’s important to take steps to resolve any problems rather than just put off your dental care.

First, talk to your dentist about any concerns. They will probably be able to accomodate your needs if you tell them what you are looking for.

In some situations, you may feel that you want to look around at alternative options – maybe there are other dentists who meet your needs better, taking into account factors such as location, office hours, fees and emergency arrangements.

If you are comparing fees, ask for estimates on full-mouth x-rays and a preventive dental visit that includes an oral exam and tooth cleaning.

If you have any doubts about treatment your dentist has recommended, it may be a good idea to set your mind at rest by getting a second opinion from another dentist.

However, even in the best dentist-patient relationship, problems can sometimes occur. If your dentist is not able to resolve your concerns, you can contact your state or local dental association.

They have established systems of peer review that provide an impartial and easy way to resolving misunderstandings regarding the appropriateness or quality of care.

If you are not completely staisfied with the dental treatment you are getting, it’s important ot take steps to put it right – whether you sort it out with your own dentist or find another one.

Root canal treatment

Root canal therapy is an important treatment that can save a tooth with a diseased nerve and which in the past would probably have needed to be removed.

Inside each tooth is the ‘pulp’ which runs like a thread down through the root and provides nutrients and nerves to the tooth. It is the soft tissue that contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue.

If the pulp is diseased or injured, the pulp tissue dies.

The most common cause of pulp death is a cracked tooth or a deep cavity. Both of these problems can let bacteria enter the pulp.

So, if you don’t remove it, your tooth gets infected and you could lose it.

After the dentist – or endodontist (a dentist who specializes in problems of the pulp) – removes the pulp, the root canal is cleaned and sealed off to protect it. Then your dentist places a crown over the tooth to help make it stronger.

Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure involving one to three visits with little or no discomfort.

Your restored tooth could last a lifetime, if you continue to care for your teeth and gums and enjoy regular checkups.

How cosmetic dentistry can change your smile – and your life

Modern cosmetic dentistry has created many opportunities that did not exist before for people to improve their appearance and change the way they feel about themselves.

Although cosmetic dentistry really did not exist a few years ago, it now attracts interest from a wide range of people.

There are few people who don’t want to improve their appearance by making their teeth straighter and whiter so that they look better when they smile.

New technology and procedures have created many more opportunities for dentists to help patients look better.

One of the most important opportunities for doing this is porcelain veneers.

These are custom-made wafers that the dentist places over the front of the teeth to repair damage and make them look better.

They can overcome many cosmetic dental problems such as whitening stained or discolored teeth, closing gaps between teeth or correcting a crooked smile without the need for braces.

They can also cover up chips and imperfections so that the smile looks much better.

Another important cosmetic trend is the increased use of white fillings.

White fillings now are more lifelike than ever and they last longer than previously.

They have become the material of choice for many dentists as they blend in with teeth and look better.

If you feel your smile is less than perfect, talk to your dentist about how it could be better.

How cancer treatment affects oral health

When someone is undergoing cancer treatment, its important that they involve their dentist in their program of care.

They should schedule a dental exam and cleaning before the treatment actually begins and then repeat it periodically during the course of treatment.

Its important that they tell the dentist that they are being treated for cancer and that they also discuss any dental procedures, such as extractions or insertion of dental implants, with the oncologist before starting the cancer treatment.

Its therefore a good idea to ensure that the dentist and oncologist have each others details to enable them to discuss any issues to help the patient.

And the dentist and physician should be informed about any issues such as bleeding of the gums, pain, or unusual feeling in the teeth or gums, or any dental infections.

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene during cancer treatment is vital to reduce the risk of infection and to help aid the treatment process.