What Signs and Symptoms are Associated with an Impacted Tooth?

An impacted tooth can lead to extreme discomfort and other unpleasant symptoms. If left untreated, impaction can cause serious side effects and can even prove fatal. If you experience symptoms of an impacted tooth, you should see your dentist as soon as possible for evaluation and treatment.

 

Symptoms of an Impacted Tooth

An impacted tooth is one that does not emerge properly. The most common teeth to become impacted are the wisdom teeth, but impaction can occur with any tooth that does not move into the correct position. Your regular X-rays can help determine if teeth are impacted well before any symptoms occur.

Symptoms can include:

•    Swelling or redness in the gums
•    Headache or discomfort in the jaw
•    Bleeding gums
•    Halitosis and/or a bad taste in the mouth

Symptoms of an impacted tooth should be brought to your dentist’s attention as soon as possible. Impacted teeth can become infected, and the infection can migrate into the sinuses and even into the brain or the circulatory system. This can lead to heart disease, brain damage or even death if left untreated.

 

Treatment for an Impacted Tooth

In most cases, the recommended treatment for an impacted tooth is removal. After evaluation, your dentist will explain treatment. If the tooth has become infected, you might need to take antibiotics to treat the infection before an oral surgeon can safely remove the tooth.

In some cases, impacted teeth never exhibit symptoms and cause no difficulty and it might not be necessary to have the teeth removed. It is best to have your situation evaluated to see if leaving the teeth in place is likely to cause problems with the rest of your teeth.

If you believe you might have an , please contact the office of the doctor Family Dentistry in Littleton Colorado at 303 -730-1222 to make an appointment. We’ll evaluate your tooth and recommend an appropriate treatment to alleviate your discomfort as soon as possible.

Will I Need an Implant if I Have a Cracked Tooth?

Dental implants are posts that are inserted into the jawbone and covered with a cap, or artificial tooth, in order to replace a lost tooth. Dental implants fuse with the jaw and the cap is color-matched to surrounding teeth, creating a permanent replacement tooth that looks and acts like your other natural teeth.

Dental implants are used by an implant dentist to replace teeth lost for a number of reasons, including physical damage from cracking. More than one implant can be placed in the mouth; in fact, the placement of dental implants can prevent the loss of further teeth because they stimulate the jaw and prevent the bone from weakening. [pullquote]Dental implants fuse with the jaw and the cap is color-matched to surrounding teeth, creating a permanent replacement tooth that looks and acts like your other natural teeth.[/pullquote]

There are several levels of severity of cracks in a tooth. Most cracks are craze lines, which are small lines on the enamel of the teeth that do not require any treatment. Cracks in the cusp, or chewing surface, of the teeth that do not affect the pulp can also be treated by means other than in implant.

More serious cracks run vertically from the enamel down into the pulp, or nerve center, of the tooth. If left untreated, the pulp may become exposed, causing pain, inflammation, infection, and possibly the eventual loss of a tooth. These forms of cracks can sometimes be treated with a root canal, which involves removing the pulp and sealing the tooth.

A split tooth is the most severe form of crack, and it cannot be saved. The tooth will be removed and can be replaced with a dental implant. The implant will function like a normal tooth, and will not require any additional care after it heals.

Routine oral care, such as twice-daily brushing and daily flossing, will help the implant last for years.

A split tooth is typically the only form of a crack where you will likely need to replace it with an implant. In other, less serious cases of cracked teeth, there are often other options available.

If you have a cracked tooth and would like to learn more about your treatment options, contact the office of Dr. Bernard Jin, serving Burnaby and the surrounding areas, at 604-229-2824 to schedule your consultation.

What is Gingivitis?

The health of your gums is just as important as the health of your teeth. On regular visits to the dentist, your gums are evaluated for signs of inflammation. Sometimes this inflammation is classified as gum disease, based on its severity. [pullquote]Regular brushing and flossing helps keep the gums healthy through stimulation, and also removes plaque and tartar buildup along the gum line.[/pullquote]

Gingivitis and Gum Disease

Gingivitis refers to inflammation of the gums, or gingival tissue. This inflammation can be an early sign of gum disease. As inflammation becomes more severe, it is more difficult to treat, so it is best to diagnose gingivitis early, allowing for easier treatment.

Some symptoms of gingivitis include:

•    Redness or swelling of the gums
•    A shiny look to the gums
•    Bleeding while brushing

Mention to your dentist if you have any of these symptoms. In addition, during regular dental appointments the spaces between your gums and teeth will be measured. When the gums become inflamed, they pull away from the tooth roots. Enlargement of these pockets can also indicate developing gingivitis or more severe gum disease.

If you show signs of gingivitis, you will be informed how to treat your gums to prevent more severe infection from developing. This often includes baking soda toothpaste, special mouthwashes, or even a course of antibiotics.

 

Preventing Gingivitis

As with most dental care, the best way to approach gingivitis is through prevention. Regular brushing and flossing helps keep the gums healthy through stimulation, and also removes plaque and tartar buildup along the gum line. These substances are highly acidic and can eat through the enamel, causing cavities. As they build up along the gum line, they can also lead to inflammation in the gums, gingivitis, and eventual gum disease.

Visiting the dentist regularly will also help prevent gingivitis. Gingivitis and gum disease can be diagnosed in early stages and treated before they become serious. Evaluating the gums, the pockets between the gums and the tooth roots, and making sure you are brushing and flossing correctly are all ways regular dental visits can help you keep your gums healthy.

If you would like further information on the causes and treatment of gingivitis, call the Littleton office the doctor Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation.

Smile Confidently With Dental Implants

dentures SurreyWhen people lose more than one tooth due to aging, injury, or other reasons, they may think that dentures are their only option for leading a normal life. However, dentures can be uncomfortable, they can slip out when you’re eating or talking, and they don’t help prevent bone loss that occurs when you lose tooth roots.

Dental implants include an artificial tooth root and a cap that is color-matched to your surrounding teeth (or selected to look as natural as possible). The implant is inserted surgically into the jaw, where it fuses with the jawbone. The cap is then placed on the post, creating a permanent and worry-free tooth replacement.

Patients who have lost several teeth and are considering dentures or already use dentures can also benefit from dental implants. Teeth to Stay-All in 1 Day  (also known as All-on-4), involves the placement of four implants along the jaw. The patient is then fitted with a complete arch of teeth that fit over the implants.

The Teeth to Stay-All in 1 Day allows you to leave the office with a complete set of teeth, so you can smile confidently.

As an implant dentist can tell you, patients who have lost all the teeth on their top or bottom jaws are susceptible to bone erosion. Without the tooth roots there to stimulate the bone and hold it in place, the jaw begins to wear away. If these patients are considering dental implants, a bone graft may be required to prevent the implants from failing.

Teeth to Stay-All in 1 Day does not require a bone graft because the implants are strategically placed in the parts of the jaw that are least affected by bone loss. Avoiding a bone graft can remove several months of healing time and an additional surgical procedure.

Dental implants require simple routine cleaning and check-ups. They can replace single lost teeth or an entire set of upper or lower teeth. Regain your confidence with a natural smile by choosing dental implants. Consult with our experienced team at Smiles Unlimited Dental Centre, servingSurreyand the neighboring areas, to learn more.

Aesthetic Dental Transformations

cosmetic dentist DenverDoes your smile look dull and tired? Maybe it has suffered from prolonged caffeine intake through dark drinks, chocolate and other foods? Or perhaps it has been damaged, through over-intense brushing, impact damage or other accident? Whatever the reason, your smile can be restored to its former glory through several techniques that are available by a cosmetic dentist.

Our smile is a key factor in instilling confidence; if we feel confident in ourselves, then those we interact with will similarly have more confidence in us. However, many of us feel self-conscious if our smile isn’t attractive.

Whether its tooth staining that requires treatment through teeth whitening, or physical repairs to the tooth enamel, a cosmetic dentist can address a range of problems to give you back the smile you once had, and help restore your confidence.

Teeth whitening treatment is the best solution to treating teeth that look dull and jaded. Over time, our teeth can lose their sparkle through a range of factors, such as diet, lifestyle, medications or simple wear and tear. Teeth whitening treatments can bring about a dramatic improvement in the brilliance of the tooth’s whiteness in a short time.

Tooth whitening can be performed at home through kits, or in a dental office, and the treatment venue is often determined by the level of staining and the patient’s desired results.

Teeth that are misshaped or uneven in appearance will benefit from dental veneers. Veneers are thin, tooth-shaped slivers of porcelain that are applied onto the front of problem teeth to reshape your smile. A dentist strips away a small amount of tooth enamel and bonds the dental veneer into place to provide a natural look.

Veneers treat a range of aesthetic dental imperfections, and can be used to conceal chipped or broken teeth, or teeth that are badly affected by staining. They can also close unsightly gaps between teeth, and can be blended to match the shape and shade of your natural teeth.

For more serious restorations, a cosmetic dentist may use such techniques as dental crowns or dental implants. Dental crowns are normally used to conceal badly damaged teeth, or as a support for a dental bridge, while dental implants are used to provide a natural replacement for lost teeth.

If you are interested in transforming your smile and would like more information on how cosmetic dentistry can benefit you, call the Denver office of Drs. Brewick and Hatzidakis today at 303-832-7789 to schedule a consultation.

Will Teeth Whitening Cause Tooth Sensitivity?

One of the most popular cosmetic treatments today is teeth whitening, mainly because stained or discolored teeth are very common. Whitening treatments are simple, often performed in the dentist office.

 

Side Effects of Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening treatments have limited side effects, all of which are minor. The most common side effects are irritation to the gums and other oral tissues, as well as tooth sensitivity. Sensitivity is more common among those who have thin enamel. Irritation to the gums is more likely during at-home whitening. When teeth are whitened in the office, the cosmetic dentist will use a special gel to protect the lips and gums.

In-office whitening provides almost immediate results. Your teeth can be lightened five to ten shades after a single one-hour treatment. At-home treatment shows results after seven to ten days, and is often recommended for more stubborn stains that do not respond well to in-office whitening.

 

Treating Sensitivity

If you experience sensitivity after whitening, be sure to consult with your cosmetic dentist for treatment suggestions. Toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help, as can other treatments that help replace minerals that build up the tooth enamel.

Sensitivity after whitening is more common after multiple treatments, so be sure to follow your dentist’s recommendations about the frequency of treatment. In most cases, a single treatment will provide dramatic results, then you will only need touch-up treatments to maintain your new, bright smile.

At-home treatment supplied by your dentist also has a slightly higher risk of sensitivity. Since at-home are used for more stubborn staining, if often makes use of stronger whitening agents. Be sure to follow your dentist’s instructions to reduce the risk of irritation to the gums and lips as well as the risk of tooth sensitivity. Over-the-counter whitening is generally not as strong, and so is less likely to cause sensitivity, but if you use it more frequently in order to get better results, the possibility of irritation increases.

To find out more about whitening treatments and how they can benefit your smile, contact the office of the doctor Family Dentistry, located in Littleton Colorado, today at 303 -730-1222 schedule a consultation.

What is Bruxism and Why Does it Occur

Many people subconsciously grind or clench their teeth – a condition known as bruxism. It is a common dental malady, and although bruxism cannot be fully cured, it is one that can be treated by a dentist.

Bruxism occurs when teeth make forceful contact with each other, and the condition often manifests when the person is sleeping, although certain emotional states such as anger can also trigger bruxism. Most sufferers of bruxism aren’t even aware they have the condition and clench or grind their teeth without thinking.

Bruxism can have a huge impact on a person’s oral health, and can lead to such issues as:

  • Wearing of the tooth enamel. In severe cases of Bruxism, the dentin may also come under threat.
  • Tooth damage, including cracking or chipping, or teeth becoming loose or sore.
  • Increased tooth sensitivity.
  • Facial pain due to continued and forceful clenching of the muscles in the jaw.
  • Temporomandibular pain – this is pain experienced in the jawbone ‘hinges’ on either side of the mouth.

Sufferers of bruxism should consult a dentist in order to find the cause of the bruxism and also to treat the condition and reduce its effects. A dentist may recommend sufferers wear a mouthguard at night to help protect the teeth from subconscious impact. The mouthguard will not only serve to absorb any impact caused from the collision of teeth, but will also protect against any damage that might otherwise be caused.  [pullquote]Most sufferers of bruxism aren’t even aware they have the condition and clench or grind their teeth without thinking.[/pullquote]

The dentist may also advise on changes to the patient’s lifestyle, such as avoiding coffee or other caffeinated drinks and foods, and alcohol before going to bed. Relaxation techniques, such as yoga or listening to calming music can help the mind and muscles relax, and may help alleviate the causes of stress which can in turn lead to the clenching and grinding of teeth.

Whatever the cause of a person’s Bruxism, our dental team can help alleviate the symptoms and effect of teeth clenching and grinding by working with the sufferer in order to find the cause of the problem and treat accordingly. Contact our Denver office today to schedule your professional consultation.

Good Dental Health Starts Early

dds downtown denverThe importance of good dental health cannot be understated, and so it is important to instil the need for an effective dental regimen as early as possible in childhood, in order to promote good dental health habits in later life. This includes showing children how to brush correctly and effectively, but also getting them used to visits to the dentist.

Children’s teeth undergo a lot of punishment as they grow; from sweet treats such as cakes and sweets to sugar-rich drinks, and while a child’s primary teeth will eventually give way to adult teeth, it is important to ensure that dental health habits learned in childhood carry on into adulthood.

Even before children have developed their primary teeth, parents can begin building good oral habits in their children by promoting the feeling of a clean mouth. This can be done by gentle cleaning of the child’s tongue and gums with some soft gauze. Once baby teeth begin to emerge, use a soft tooth brush to begin building a routine of brushing.

Children learn very quickly and often through imitation, and it shouldn’t be long before they are able to begin brushing their teeth independently. Even so, take the time to show the child how to brush effectively, including the back of the teeth and areas of the mouth that require particular attention, as well as the frequency of brushing teeth. Most adults brush twice daily, but for a child this may be several times more.

Regular dentist visits are important, not just for adults but for children too. Starting visits in earlier life can help dispel any fears of the dentist that might manifest, and the dentist can also help advise on how best to develop an ongoing dental health process, including the use of dental floss – which he or she can demonstrate to the child, as well as the use of mouthwash – spit, not swallow! – and fluoride treatments if required.

The dentist can also advise on correct diet and nutrition to consider, in order to promote good oral health. Recommendations often include fresh fruit and vegetables, low fat dairy products and whole grains while limiting the child’s exposure to harmful sugars.

Get your child off to a good start with their oral hygiene by introducing the importance of dental health early in life, and it will stand them in good stead as they grow up.

Contact Governor’s Park Dental Group serving Denver CO at 303-832-0427 to schedule your child’s visit.

My Teen Doesn’t Want Metal Mouth

Orthodontic treatment is common among teens and adolescents. By the time children have reached this age, all their permanent teeth have arrived, and it is possible to tell if they need adjustment due to misalignment, crowding or other issues. However, as common as braces are, some  might prefer a less visible option. For many teens, Invisalign is a better option considering the comfort and overall appearance.

How Invisalign Works

Invisalign moves misaligned teeth into correct positing using trays made of clear plastic rather than traditional metal braces with bands. Each tray represents an incremental movement of the teeth. After wearing the tray about two weeks, you’ll switch to the next tray, which will move your teeth a bit more. After the final tray is in place, your teeth will be properly aligned.

Aligner trays are made from carefully constructed digital models of what your teeth look like now and what they will look like when treatment is completed. The series of trays moves your teeth gradually into the desired final position. After the last tray is removed, you will wear a retainer, usually just at night, to keep your teeth from moving back into their misaligned position.

Why Not Traditional Braces?

Traditional braces are very effective and necessary at times. You and your dentist can consult to determine what orthodontic treatment is best for your teen’s needs. This decision will be based upon the severity and type of your child’s misalignment as well as on personal preference. This might include your level of confidence that your teen will be able to take appropriate care of the trays during treatment.

In cases where , it provides a variety of advantages including:

•    No sharp wires to injure the oral tissues
•    Trays can be removed to thoroughly clean the teeth
•    Trays are virtually invisible

To determine if the Invisalign treatment is the best orthodontic option for your teen, please call the doctor Family Dentistry, serving Highlands Ranch and neighboring areas, at 303 -730-1222 to schedule a one on one consultation.

Dental Implants for Renewed Self Confidence and Peace of Mind

dental implant dentist VancouverA missing tooth can lower your self-confidence and may cause you to hide you smile and shy away from social engagements and public speaking.

Patients are often attracted to dental implants to replace missing teeth because implants are the most natural option next to your original teeth.

Because they are so life like, dental implants give patients self confidence peace of mind.

A dental implant dentist offers a unique tooth replacement that is nearly identical to a biological tooth in appearance and performance.

When the implant dentist places the titanium device into a patient’s jaw, the end result is a re-creation of the absent tooth’s root. The dental implant is the only tooth replacement method to replicate the missing tooth’s entire structure, not merely fill in for the visible crown portion.

The dental implant serves a very important purpose in this aspect. It anchors the jawbone in the same way that a tooth’s root does.

When the root is not replaced, as is the case with bridges and dentures, the jawbone will atrophy over time. This effect is noticeable and can add to the problems with the smile’s appearance.

In addition to the aesthetic benefits, dental implant patients also get peace of mind from the durability of the replacement teeth. They become a permanent part of the mouth because they fuse with the jawbone.

Dental implants are also convenient because they are easy to care for. Because they share the form of natural teeth, they can be maintained just like the natural remaining teeth. There is no need for patients to alter their brushing and flossing techniques.

For more information on dental implants or to find out if they are the right option for you, call the office of Dr. Bernard Jin, serving Vancouver and surrounding areas, today to schedule a consultation.