What Are Dental Sealants?

While a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss are typically the first line of defense against cavities, they aren't completely effective in protecting teeth from cavities. The rough, uneven surface of molars (the back teeth) makes them prone to a buildup of food, acid, and bacteria, even in those with flawless hygiene habits. Many dentists recommend sealants as another way to protect molars from cavities and decay.

What Are Sealants?

Sealants essentially “seal” teeth to prevent food particles and debris from building up in the nooks and crannies of the back teeth. Made from a thin protective coating adhered to the teeth, sealants are almost 80% effective in reducing the risk of tooth decay, according to the American Dental Association. The Centers for Disease Control also stresses the effectiveness—and importance—of sealants, particularly in pediatric patients: on average, kids without sealants have nearly three times as many cavities as those with sealants.

Depending on the patient, sealants can last up to 10 years before wearing down, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. They can be applied quickly and painlessly, and they have no known side effects.

Why Are Sealants Necessary?

To understand why sealants work so well, it's helpful to understand how cavities form. After eating, leftover food particles and debris build up around the teeth. As bacteria in the mouth come into contact with this debris, cavity-causing acids are produced that begin creating tiny holes, called cavities, in the teeth. This can even happen to people who brush religiously because toothbrush bristles often cannot reach into the deep nooks and crannies of the molars. Sealants work to fill these deep spots so that food and bacteria can't become trapped and cause a cavity.

Who Can Benefit From Sealants?

Sealants aren't right for every patient, but many people of all ages can benefit from them. At Hanson Dentistry, Dr. Robert N. Hanson evaluates each patient to determine if sealants could help protect their teeth from cavities. This includes children with recent molar development in order to keep their chompers healthy and cavity-free from the get-go. However, many adults also use sealants—even those who have early decay—to try to prevent further cavity development. In addition, some people are more prone to molar decay because of the structure of their teeth, and sealants add another layer of protection against harmful cavity-causing debris.

If you believe you or your children could benefit from sealants, Dr. Hanson can clean and evaluate your teeth to make a recommendation. He applies sealants in-office at Hanson Dentistry. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer flexible payment options to provide all patients with access to quality dental care. Call our office in Independence, MO at 816-373-5606 to schedule an appointment.

Three Ways to Make Tooth Brushing Fun for Kids

Teaching children good dental hygiene techniques at an early age is a great way to keep their smiles clean and healthy; it can also help them develop positive lifelong habits. However, it can be difficult to keep them interested if they find it boring or punitive. Here are a few ways parents can help their kids have fun while brushing their teeth.

Let Them Pick Their Toothbrush

Toothbrush aisles are full of options for children, including brushes with bright, sparkly handles and ones that feature their favorite TV or movie characters. Parents can select different sizes based on the child's age, and many stores offer both manual and electric children's brushes. Letting children choose their own toothbrushes can encourage them to use them and feel more eager about their dental hygiene routine.

Buy Special Toothpaste

Just like toothbrushes, kids have plenty of options when it comes to toothpaste, too. Many brands feature different colors and fun flavors like bubble mint and tropical fruit, a great alternative to the minty adult toothpaste that many kids find unpleasant. Some toothpastes even have special dyes that appear if plaque is left behind on the teeth—which can be easily brushed off—so kids can tell if they did a good job brushing or not.

Have a Dance Party

Dental professionals recommend brushing for a full two minutes. This may seem like a short period of time to an adult, but it can feel especially long to a child who isn't otherwise entertained. Parents can make those two minutes fun by setting a timer, turning on some music, and having a dance party until the timer buzzes. Kids may be surprised at how quickly the time went, and parents can appreciate a smoother morning or bedtime routine.

Making tooth brushing fun for kids provides a foundation to help them maintain a healthy smile. In addition to regular brushing, parents should take their kids to see the dentist every six months for preventive care treatments. If you're in need of trusted pediatric dental services in Independence, MO, the experienced team at Hanson Dentistry will provide your child with gentle, efficient care. Call us today at 816-373-5606 to schedule an appointment.

Don't Believe These Common Myths About Dentures

According to Boston Magazine, 69% of adults between the ages of 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth. It's no wonder that millions of Americans need either partial or full dentures. However, this hasn't stopped the numerous misconceptions about dentures that circulate the nation.

Only the Elderly Need Dentures

Tooth loss is more common among the elderly, but patients may require dentures at many stages of their lives. Younger patients often lose teeth due to gum disease, tooth decay, dental abnormalities, or injuries. Some patients may lose teeth due to digestive disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux. Dentures can offer a long-term solution to patients of all ages.

Dentures Last Forever

Many believe that dentures are a one-time fix and that one set of dentures will last forever. In reality, dentures can be expected to last for five to seven years (although, with attentive care, many patients can use them for up to ten years). Despite their longevity, denture should be evaluated and refit at least once a year, as they can fracture, deteriorate, or loosen over time.

It's Hard to Eat With Dentures

Although it's true that eating with dentures and eating with natural teeth are quite different, one is not inherently more difficult than the other. In fact, after a brief adjustment period, people with dentures can eat all of the same foods that they ate with their natural teeth, although it's safer to start with soft foods and work up to chewier foods.

Dentures Can Change the Smile

In the early days, dentures were mass-produced in a one-size-fits-all fashion. This resulted in some patients having completely different smiles while their dentures were in. Nowadays, dentures are carefully matched to the remaining teeth or measured to fit on the gums exactly, which can make the effect very natural.

With modern technology, dentures can be a simple solution to tooth loss. If you need partial or full dentures, Hanson Dentistry can provide a custom set with free adjustments for the first six months. For more information about our dental services, contact Hanson Dentistry at 816-373-5606 today.

First-Aid Protocol for the Loss of a Permanent Tooth

As a child, losing a tooth was a momentous occasion marked by a special visit from the Tooth Fairy and a few dollars’ reward. The loss of a permanent tooth as an adult isn’t quite so exciting. It can be a frightening, time-sensitive experience, but knowing what to do during this dental emergency can improve the odds of salvaging the tooth.

Seek Urgent Treatment

Whether the result of a ball game, fist fight, or dental disease, the loss of a permanent tooth requires an immediate trip to the dentist (as in, five minutes ago). It may be possible to salvage the tooth, but only with immediate professional intervention. Without prompt attention, the tissue connecting to the tooth will quickly die, making it impossible to salvage. The socket could also become infected and lead to further complications.

Follow Proper First-Aid Protocol

There are a few steps patients can take to improve the odds of saving their lost tooth after this dental emergency. It’s important to note that the roots should never be touched or scrubbed; this puts the vulnerable tissue at risk. Instead, the tooth should be picked up by the crown. If roots are dirty, they can be rinsed with milk, saliva, or a saline solution.

After rinsing, the tooth should be placed back in the socket, if possible, and held in place using gauze or a washcloth. Storing the tooth in the mouth exposes the roots to saliva, which helps with preservation. If it can’t be stored in the mouth, it can be placed in a glass of milk for transport to the dentist. Avoid exposing the tooth to water, which can make it harder to re-implant. Next, it’s time to get to the dentist as quickly as possible for the best chance at salvaging the tooth.

Contact an Emergency Dentist

Most emergency rooms don’t have the equipment to re-implant a tooth, so opt for an emergency dentist in your area. If you’ve accidentally knocked out a tooth in Independence, MO, Hanson Dentistry may be able to help you salvage it with same-day emergency treatment. If we’re unable to re-implant your tooth, we may recommend dental crowns, partial dentures, or another natural-looking replacement. Don’t delay—call Hanson Dentistry now at 816-373-5606 for emergency dental services.

What to Do If You Have Sensitive Teeth

Tooth sensitivity is a problem for millions of Americans, who often have to deal with pain and discomfort on a daily basis. A study in the Journal of American Dentistry estimated that tooth sensitivity affects about one out of every eight people in the United States. A person suffering from sensitive teeth may experience pain when drinking cold or hot drinks or from eating certain foods. Understanding the causes of tooth sensitivity and ways to lessen it may help sufferers manage their pain.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

The root cause of tooth pain is the exposure of nerve endings in the layer of teeth known as dentin. Normally, these nerve endings are protected by the tooth's enamel, the outermost layer of hard protective covering. Over time, this enamel can wear away, and when it does, it exposes the nerve endings inside the root of the tooth. This exposure means that highly sensitive nerves can come in contact with liquids, foods, toothbrushes, and anything else that goes into the mouth. Protecting this enamel before it wears away is the best way to avoid sensitive teeth, but patients can take steps if they already have sensitive teeth.

How Can I Relieve Tooth Sensitivity?

Relieving tooth sensitivity is often a matter of cutting out a few problematic behaviors that wear down tooth enamel. Cutting back on acidic drinks like citrus juices and coffee is a good place to start. At-home teeth-whitening products that rely on bleach or other caustic substances should also be stopped in favor of professional teeth whitening. Patients can also use toothpaste specially formulated for sensitive teeth, brush their teeth in a gentle manner, and switch to fluoride-based mouthwash.

If you follow these steps to help relieve tooth sensitivity but are still experiencing pain, it may be time to speak with a dentist to see what other measures can be taken. Hanson Dentistry offers comprehensive dental services that cater to the full dental needs of each patient. Our patients appreciate the focused, personalized, and attentive level of care we provide. Contact us today at 816-373-5606 to schedule an appointment.

Five Beverages That Damage Your Teeth

Sticky candy, hard popcorn kernels, and sugar-laden treats can all create dental issues, but most people rarely consider the oral health consequences of drinks. Here are five beverages that most commonly cause tooth damage. Enjoy these drinks sparingly and rinse your mouth with water thoroughly to mitigate their effects.

1. Sugary Cocktails 

Sweet drinks with soda and juice combined with alcohol can increase the risk for cavities. Not only does the acidity of the alcohol wear away the enamel of the teeth, but the sugar in the beverage also feeds oral bacteria and causes it to multiply. This creates the perfect conditions for tooth decay. Choose cocktails made with seltzer water and other sugar-free mixers and rinse after every round.

2. Wine

White wine is another acidic beverage that can damage tooth enamel. Red wine, on the other hand, doesn't cause dental erosion and actually has phytonutrients that can protect the teeth, but it can cause stains. Staining is more likely to occur for those who recently had teeth whitening treatments or who have veneers.

3. Vodka

Less expensive brands of vodka tend to have a low pH, which means they are considered acidic and can damage teeth. Even those who stick to top-shelf brands should be concerned about the drying effects of alcohol. Without saliva, the mouth is unable to fight off cavity-causing bacteria.

4. Coffee and Tea

These morning favorites are often enjoyed with added sugar, which increases the risk of getting cavities. Coffee is just slightly acidic, while the pH varies among different types of tea. Look for varieties with pH of less than 5.5. In addition, just like red wine, coffee and tea can stain the teeth, an effect that is more obvious with veneers and recently bleached teeth.

5. Soda and Sports Drinks

These beverages are packed with sugar, making them a bad choice for those who want to avoid cavities. Even sugar-free and diet varieties contain phosphoric or citric acid, both of which cause enamel erosion.

Cosmetic dentistry can help whiten stains on teeth, while regular cleanings can help ward off cavities. Hanson Dentistry can provide care to protect your teeth and help improve stains. Contact us at 816-373-5606 to schedule an appointment.

What to Do If Your Dental Crown Falls Out

A crown, sometimes referred to as a cap, is a tooth-shaped cover that fits over a damaged or decayed tooth. It mimics the appearance of a natural tooth and serves to protect the damaged tooth beneath. Crowns are also used in cosmetic dentistry to improve the appearance of misshapen, oddly spaced, or discolored teeth. Depending on what it’s made of and how well teeth are cared for, a crown often lasts at least seven years or longer. But sometimes crowns unexpectedly fall out, and there are certain steps a patient should take when this happens.

What to Do If a Crown Falls Out? 

Although a lost crown isn’t usually an emergency, it’s important to act immediately after a crown falls out to attempt to save it and to avoid further damage to the tooth beneath. As soon it falls out, the crown should be placed in a secure spot, if possible. Then it’s time to schedule a dentist appointment! A dentist will usually need to make a new crown to replace it, but if the patient still has the old one, it may continue to work temporarily.

The patient shouldn’t try to slip the old crown back on alone; this is something that requires the help of a dentist. If for some reason it does need to go back into the mouth, it should be cleaned thoroughly, and the inside should be coated with tooth cement, which can be found at the pharmacy. This will help temporarily secure the tooth until the dentist can evaluate it.

What Will the Dentist Do?

Once in the exam room, the dentist will examine the tooth beneath the crown. Over time, it may have changed shape from damage or decay. The dentist will decide if a new crown will be required; an improperly fitting one will just come off again. The dentist will also remove any additional decay since the last crown was made and place any new fillings, if necessary.

While a lost crown doesn’t always require immediate attention, it’s important not to put off a dentist appointment to avoid further damage to the tooth below. That’s why Hanson Dentistry offers same day crown appointments to help you immediately resolve the situation and get on with life as usual. If you’ve lost a crown, we can help you put it back in or evaluate your teeth to determine if a new one is appropriate. Call Hanson Dentistry today at 816-373-5606 to schedule an appointment and learn more about our services.

Preparing for Teeth Whitening

Tooth discoloration can be caused by beverages, such as coffee, soda, and wine, damaged enamel, or even genetics. Fortunately, modern advances in teeth whitening have made discoloration a thing of the past. For those considering professional whitening, preparation is simple.

Determine Which Type of Whitening Is Necessary 

Tooth discoloration comes in two forms: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic discoloration is caused by staining liquids, such as coffee and tea, and affects only the surface of the teeth. This discoloration should be treated by a professional cleaning because bleaching has no effect. Intrinsic discoloration occurs beneath the surface and is caused by physical trauma to an adult tooth, the use of certain antibiotics, or genetic conditions. This type of discoloration can be addressed by applying bleaching gel to one’s teeth. It's not always easy to tell whether discoloration is extrinsic or intrinsic, which is why it's best to consult a professional to determine which type of whitening to use.

Have a Routine Cleaning

Teeth whitening shouldn't be performed when gum disease, cavities, exposed roots, or other underlying issues are present. Before undergoing whitening treatment, a dentist should perform a full cleaning and any other necessary dental services to ensure uniform whitening.

Consult a Shade Guide

Consulting a shade guide allows patients to determine the current shade of their teeth and identify their goals for whitening sessions. This has the added benefit of comparing shades before and after whitening to determine if a patient would like to schedule additional sessions to achieve their desired look.

Desensitize Teeth

For many patients, there is no discomfort or pain associated with teeth whitening. However, some people with sensitive teeth or gums may experience unpleasantness during their procedures. These patients can invest in desensitizing toothpaste prior to any procedures to avoid potential discomfort.

Hold Off If Expecting

Pregnant or nursing mothers are advised to wait until nursing is finished to have teeth whitening procedures. Because medical professionals are unsure about the effects whitening chemicals have on fetuses, they recommend avoiding whitening procedures until after pregnancy.

Teeth whitening can reduce unsightly discoloration with a simple procedure. If you're interested in teeth whitening or other cosmetic dentistry services in Independence, MO, call Hanson Dentistry at 816-373-5606 to schedule an appointment today!

Five Ways to Prevent Plaque

Plaque buildup is a major cause of cavities, gingivitis, and other oral health issues. This sticky film coats the teeth and can eventually eat away at the enamel, allowing bacteria to grow. Fortunately, preventive oral health measures can keep plaque from accumulating on the teeth, stopping dental problems before they start. Here are five tips to try.

1. Brush Correctly at Least Twice a Day 

Ideally, brush after every meal to remove plaque immediately. Before bed is the most important time to brush. Otherwise, plaque will remain on the teeth all night. Hold a soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. An electric toothbrush is the most effective type. Use gentle, circular strokes to cover all surfaces of the teeth as well as the tongue. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months.

2. Floss Regularly

Cleaning between the teeth is just as important as removing plaque from their surfaces. This should be done at least once a day, whether with traditional floss, water flosser, or a dental pick.

3. Use Antibacterial Mouthwash

Rinsing the mouth with a bacteria-killing mouthwash formula can reduce plaque accumulation. It can also loosen plaque deposits, making them easier to remove with a toothbrush or floss. Avoid mouthwash with alcohol, which can dry out the mouth and actually contribute to plaque development.

4. Avoid Starchy and Sugary Foods

These items promote bacterial growth, which accelerates tooth decay. Acidic foods can also cause issues. Items to restrict include potato chips, bread, alcohol, sticky candy, and soda and other carbonated beverages. After eating these items, drink lots of water to rinse the teeth clean.

5. Keep up With Checkups

Seeing the dentist regularly for a deep clean can help keep plaque buildup at bay. For best results, have a checkup every six months. This cleaning will remove plaque from areas that are difficult to access with a toothbrush and floss alone, such as the second molars. The dentist can also diagnose and treat oral health issues before they develop into major problems.

Those who need a new dentist can schedule an appointment with Hanson Dentistry in the Independence area. Dr. Hanson truly cares about his patients and provides a modern office setting with comprehensive care, including cosmetic treatments and new dental technologies. He has been serving families in the community since 1974.

Four Reasons to Consider the Dental Profession

Considering a career in the dental field? Those who opt to become a dentist can enjoy a fulfilling career through helping others and learning the latest techniques with exciting technologies. In fact, U.S. News and World Report even placed this profession at the top of its list of best jobs for 2017. Here are four reasons why dentistry is a great field to pursue.

1. Rapidly Increasing Job Prospects 

Those who enter the dental field will be in high demand. Many dentists who were educated in the 1960s and 1970s are now poised to retire, and the need for additional dental care for the aging baby boomer population will only increase. Projections by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate that there will be more than 26,000 job openings for new dentists by 2024.

2. The Ability to Transform Lives

Dentists can provide a tangible, positive change in the oral health of their patients. Whether through promoting oral hygiene, transforming a damaged smile, or eliminating pain, dentists can truly make a difference in the lives of their patients.

3. Independence and Flexibility

Dentistry is an ideal career for anyone who has dreamed of owning a business, as up to 80 percent of dentists open a private practice shortly after completing residency. Private practices provide flexible hours that allow professionals to set a schedule that fits their lifestyle. For this reason, dentistry is often named as a great career for those who want to start a family. Career opportunities also abound for dentists in research and academics.

4. High Salary

While the cost of dental school is significant, graduates who become a dentist earn a substantial salary when they enter practice. According to a 2014 survey from the American Dental Association Health Policy Institute, those who own a stake in an independent practice earned an average annual salary of $183,340; for specialists, the average was $344,740.

For family-oriented dental care in Independence, MO, trust Dr. Robert Hanson at Hanson Dentistry. He strives to treat each patient like family. We offer general and cosmetic dentistry along with treatment for sleep apnea. Contact us online or call 816-373-5606 to schedule an appointment today.

How Metal-Free Dentistry Has Affected Once-Traditional Treatments

25 years ago, dentists used metal, silver, and gold to fill a cavity or crown a patient's tooth. Today, the more effective resin fillings have prevailed over the once-traditional metal mainstays of general dental services. Here's why metal-free dentistry is so popular and recommended.

Disadvantages of Metal Dentistry 

Silver amalgam contains mercury and tends to contract and expand when exposed to heat and cold. Over time, these changes can weaken or crack the tooth structure, causing bacterial decay, infection, fractures, and chips while contributing to gum disease. When a filling breaks, a tooth is no longer sealed, and a cavity can form beneath it. Amalgams can also corrode and leak, staining the teeth and gums.

Benefits of Metal-Free Dentistry

Composite fillings are a cosmetically pleasing and safer choice for treating tooth decay. They are stronger than metal, last longer, and will remain in place for many years without discomfort. They contain no mercury, do not discolor, stabilize the tooth, reduce tooth sensitivity, and are an attractive option for minor tooth decay.

Brighter, More Natural Teeth and Smile

Metal-free fillings are designed to match the color of the patient's teeth, creating more natural-looking results. If a tooth is broken or discolored, bonding a porcelain veneer or crown to it will produce a brighter, more natural appearance. The shade of the veneer can be matched to teeth that have undergone a whitening procedure.

The Structure of Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are made up of glass, quartz, and resin. They restore teeth as close to the tooth's original tensile strength as is technically possible.

An Emphasis on Safer Teeth

With their adhesive that helps maintain the structure of teeth, metal-free fillings can reduce the amount of drilling needed when repairing cavities. Also, the American Dental Association has cited journals and examples that underscore the safety of metal-free dentistry.

The Potential of Lower Costs

The price of metal-free fillings, veneers, and crowns in traditional dental services is typically less than metal due to cheaper materials needed and the shortened time required to treat the teeth appropriately.

Dr. Robert Hanson and his associates at Hanson Dentistry are specialists in metal-free dentistry. If you live in the Independence area and are seeking an alternative to metal fillings or crowns, please call us at 816-373-5605 to learn about the dental services our team can provide you.

Components of a Great Smile

Without a spoken word, an attractive smile communicates an upbeat, friendly, and welcoming personality. Conversely, a person concerned about his or her smile may reflect timidity, hesitancy, and reluctance. Recent advances in cosmetic dentistry, however, have made getting an ideal smile easier than ever.

Elements of an Attractive Smile

Attractive smiles are highlighted by white, straight teeth that are evenly spaced with no gaps. The gums should be vibrant with no swelling, inflammation, or bleeding, and the gum tissues should be formed naturally around the necks of the teeth. A healthy, attractive smile reveals the top teeth fully and in compatible proportion to the gums.

Achieving the Perfect Shade

Cosmetic dentistry is often employed to improve the color and shading of a patient's teeth. Dull or stained teeth can be whitened, and amalgam or silver fillings can be replaced with tooth-colored composites.

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

In addition to in-office whitening, a dentist can improve the shape and size of teeth with crowns, bridges, or porcelain veneers. Missing teeth can also be replaced with bridges and dental implants. The most rewarding examples of cosmetic dentistry are those in which the results closely resemble the qualities of natural teeth.

If you are interested in cosmetic dental services to improve your smile, contact us at 816-373-5606 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.

Are Dental X-rays Really Necessary?

Like a teeth cleaning or annual checkup, x-rays are a vital element of preventative dental services. X-rays enable a dentist to see inside teeth and beneath the gums to diagnose cavities, gum disease, and some types of infection. X-rays can also prevent big problems through early detection. As for radiation, patients can rest assured that dental x-rays are safe.

X-rays at Work

Dental x-rays can expose dental decay, dental abscess, and tumors or cysts. They can reveal impacted or extra teeth, while also determining the condition of fillings, bridges, crowns, and root canals. Also, they can show any bone loss from periodontal disease, identify plaque and tartar build-up, and determine if sufficient bone exists for dental implants. Essentially, they are the first step for a dentist to get a comprehensive look at the overall mouth health of a patient.

X-rays and Children's Teeth

X-rays play a major role in pediatric dental services, guiding the development of a child's teeth and mouth. In addition to locating decay, they can determine whether the incoming permanent teeth will fit and align properly. X-rays can also track the development of a child's wisdom teeth and identify those impacted or prevented from emerging by gum tissue.

Frequency of X-rays

How often teeth should be x-rayed depends on their current condition and the patient's oral and medical history. Typically, patients require x-rays only once per year. New patients should always expect the dentist to order x-rays to diagnose any current problems and establish a baseline for future developments.

Radiation From X-rays

Dental x-rays only expose a patient to low levels of radiation. In fact, new digital x-rays reduce radiation by as much as 80 percent. While x-rays should only be used when necessary, the exposure and radiation level is safe, and x-rays are an essential element of clinical diagnosis.

Dental x-rays are the foundation of which dental and gum problems are diagnosed or verified, procedures are planned and performed, and oral baselines are established for future dental services. X-rays should not be avoided for fear of radiation exposure.

How Your Dentist Can Improve Your Sleep With Sleep Apnea Oral Treatment

If you suffer from sleep apnea—chronic irregular breathing during sleep caused by obstruction of the airway—you probably know that the potential problems are far more serious than just snoring. While nearly all sleep apnea sufferers also snore, the shallow and interrupted breathing associated with the condition is the real issue. The best way to address your condition may be sleep apnea oral treatment by your dentist.

Symptoms and Indicators

Several factors can predispose one to the breathing obstruction, including excessive weight associated with the soft tissue around the mouth and throat. Your dentist is specifically trained to recognize other indicators, such as oversized tonsils or a severe overbite. Depending on the cause, your dentist may be able to recommend a sleep apnea oral treatment that will restore free breathing during sleep and alleviate snoring. For more detail on sleep apnea, view the short clip under “Sleep Apnea” on our links page.

Patient Options

Your dentist can discuss multiple treatment options with you, each of which has its own comfort and inconvenience profile. Among the latest options is the Moses Oral Appliance, a quiet and comfortable solution designed to keep airflow unobstructed without forcing air into the throat, as other treatments do. If you suffer from disrupting rest patterns, consult with your dentist to find out if there is an oral treatment which may work for you.

How to Be Prepared for a Dental Emergency

Like other mishaps, a dental emergency occurs without warning. Before you know it, an accident happens, and someone is missing a tooth. Knowing how to respond in this situation is crucial for the best outcome. Many times, the best thing to do is to call a dentist right away.

Recognize an Emergency

Knowing what requires an immediate call for help is important. Anytime a tooth is knocked out, chipped, or broken, call your practitioner right away. Another potential emergency situation might involve severe pain. A toothache or any other type of mouth pain that cannot be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers also elicits a call to the dentist.

Responding Quickly

If a tooth or part of a tooth has come out, collect every piece as quickly as possible. Rinse away any dirt from the root area with cool water, but do not scrub. Replace the tooth into a vacant socket or place it into a cup of milk.
A quick call for help in an emergency situation should provide the assistance needed to resolve the matter successfully.

Understanding Fluoride and the Role It Plays in Keeping Teeth Healthy

Every dental patient knows that fluoride helps build strong teeth. That’s why your dentist always recommends using fluoride toothpaste. But what exactly is fluoride? In its natural state, it’s a mineral commonly found in nature, but many towns add it as a supplement to their water supply to help prevent cavities in residents.

How Does Fluoride Work?

It’s important to know what causes tooth decay to understand how fluoride improves oral health. When plaque builds up on the surface of the tooth, it produces acids that seep into the tooth’s enamel. If untreated, this may turn into a cavity that destroys the tooth’s structure. Fluoride prevents tooth decay because it aids the tooth enamel's remineralization process and slows the breakdown of enamel. The new enamel crystals that form with the help of fluoride are larger and harder, proving to be more resistant to acid.

How Much Fluoride is Enough?

Most dental professionals agree that patients who use fluoride toothpaste and brush their teeth with fluoride water receive adequate doses of the mineral. Patients who live in areas where fluoride is not added to water need to use mouth rinses, drops, tablets, or other products with high concentrations of fluoride.

Every patient has different needs, so it’s important to speak with your dentist to be sure your teeth are getting the minerals they need to stay strong and healthy.

What is Preventive Dentistry and Why do Patients Need it?

Taking care of teeth and gums is an important part of overall oral health. Part of this care involves seeing a dentist regularly and eating a healthy diet. People who seek ongoing preventative dentistry care may have fewer long-term issues.

Dental disease can sneak up on patients, often with no symptoms to indicate a problem. This is one of the main reasons that preventive dentistry is so important. Regular examinations can find and diagnose potential issues before they become serious. Patients tend to appreciate this benefit because resolving minor issues is often less expensive than the addressing major ones. Beginning preventative dentist visits as a child can be especially helpful in tracking potential issues in growth and development. A dentist can even help identify a child who might be a candidate for future orthodontic treatment.

With regular dental check-ups, patients can rest assured that a professional is monitoring oral health to resolve problems as they arise.

Dental Implants Vs. Dental Bridges: Which Is Right For You?

More than 50 percent of U.S. adults are missing at least one tooth. For those who want a more permanent solution than dentures, bridges and implants are attractive replacement options. Here are just a few of the reasons patients prefer them.

Dental Implants

Screwed directly into the jawbone by a cosmetic dentist, implants are titanium posts that act as artificial tooth roots. A prosthetic tooth or crown can then be attached to the implant for a comfortable, secure fit. Implants, made to last for the life of the patient, are a durable, nearly worry-free replacement option. With a completely natural look and feel, most folks never know the wearer even has them. Implants also help prevent bone loss and will not affect neighboring teeth, which cannot be said about bridges.

Dental Bridges

When a patient is missing a tooth in between two healthy teeth, his/her cosmetic dentist might recommend a dental bridge. The device is essentially a frame that is cemented to the natural teeth and has an artificial tooth in the middle to replace the missing one. Often more affordable than dental implants, bridges help patients chew and speak normally. But because neighboring teeth must anchor the device in place, they must be filed or ground down a bit for a secure fit.

Which Is Better?

Although both have their pros and cons, implants are probably the safer option. This is due to the fact that they do not require any work to be done on adjacent teeth. It is also important to note that adding a bridge makes it more difficult to clean the affected area, which increases the risk of tooth decay. The lifespan of a dental bridge may also be a bit shorter than that of a dental implant.

Patients should consult their cosmetic dentist for more information about dental implants and bridges. 

Clever Ways to Make Brushing Teeth Fun for Kids

Sometimes brushing teeth seems more like a chore than washing the dishes—especially with children. But, as any parent knows, it’s vitally important for every child to brush his or her teeth for good health and hygiene. These tips will make the brushing process more fun for your kids.

1. Make it a game

Parents should set a timer and have kids brush long enough to "outrun" it. Another option is to have multiple children “race” to see who can get the cleanest teeth in the allotted time. Whatever it takes, kids will enjoy brushing more if it’s made into a game.

2. Use apps

There are tons of apps for both iPhone and Android that can be used to help both children and adults brush for the correct amount of time. These apps can get anyone to stick to the task at hand.

3. Brush to the music

By playing a child’s favorite song, any parent can get their kid to brush for the required two minutes!

4. Let kids get involved

Kids’ toothbrushes and toothpaste feature all kinds of bright colors and fun characters, so an easy way to make brushing more fun is to allow kids to pick out their own brushes and paste.

What are your tips for having fun while brushing teeth?