Category: Dentistry

There are many reasons why people have a dental implant procedure and they often wonder how long it takes. While some need to replace missing teeth, others may simply be trying to retain their dentures. Sometimes, people get them in order to replace a tooth that has recently been extracted or never grew in. Some reasons a tooth may have needed an extraction include decay, infection, gum disease, or injury to a tooth. The length of an implant procedure varies from case to case depending on the type of implant and how many implants are being put in.

Step 1: Dental Exam

Before you can get started with any work, your dentist will schedule a comprehensive exam to check the health of your mouth. This may include x-rays and 3D scans. Even if your dentist is very familiar with your mouth, this step is imperative. During this time, the dentist will double-check that your gum and jaw health is sufficient to support implants. They will then develop a treatment plan for your situation and care.

Step 2: Implant Procedure

After the comprehensive exam is completed, your dentist will schedule surgery. The first step of the implant process is surgery. Your dentist will place a titanium screw in your jaw bone. The screw will be inserted right below the gums. This usually takes about 1-2 hours for each screw to be placed. So depending on how many implants you are getting in one sitting, will determine how long the dental implant procedure will take. After the healing period, most dentists will complete the final restoration of the tooth replacement. It may seem like it takes a long time to wait for your new teeth, but this is essential for ensuring that your implant procedure succeeds. The healing period allows the implant to integrate with your bone so that it can support your new crowns or bridges.

Step 3: Post-Procedure Recovery

Immediately after getting an implant, some people will experience swelling, bruising, or pain. This can depend on how much work your dentist needed to do in order to install the implant. Also, if a tooth must be removed for the procedure it will cause more discomfort. The time frame between having your implant surgery and when you get fitted for your crown is really important. The healing process takes around 90 days.

Step 4: Crown and Abutment Fitting

The final step after healing is to attach the abutment and crown. An abutment is a small shock absorber which cushions the implant from the permanent crown. In this step, your gums may need to be exposed so that you can get a proper fitting for your abutment and crown. Once the abutment is secured you are ready for a crown. The crown will be fitted and your dental implant procedure/process will be complete.

Conclusion

There are so many reasons why people get dental implants. Whatever your reason may be, consult our experienced dentist who will provide a thorough and comprehensive exam. They will guide you in the right direction and advise you accordingly. If you have any questions at all, schedule an appointment with us for more information.

Sensitive teeth can make seemingly normal activities a complete pain. You may feel the pain while enjoying your favorite ice cream, enjoying ice-cold water on a summer day, or even when having hot soup. No matter the case, sensitivity is right there and ready to attack. Hot and cold are like stimuli for sensitive teeth. When the stimuli enter the mouth, you may feel a short pain in your teeth. Luckily there are explanations for this occurrence.

Reasons Why Your Teeth Could Be Sensitive

Here are some of the top causes of teeth sensitivity:

1. Gum Recession
   
2. Enamel Erosion 
   
3. Cracked Tooth
   
4. Receeding Gums 
   
5. Exposure to Cold/Hot 
   
6. Teeth Whitening Products
   
7. Sinus Infection 
   
8. Dental Procedures
   
9. Gum Infection
   
10. Grinding Jaw 

No matter your reason, there are things that can be done to combat sensitive teeth. Depending on your specific circumstance, your dentist may recommend various things.

How Can I Reduce/Treat Teeth Sensitivity

Here are a few different things a dentist may recommend to combat tooth sensitivity:

• Flouride – Having a dentist apply flouride to sensitive teeth will help strengthen enamel. With tooth enamel stregthened, pain is reduced. Your dentist may also prescribe you floride you use at home.
• Special Toothpaste – After consistent use of desensitising toothpaste, toothpaste for sensitive teeth, your condition will improve. These toothpastes can have the ability to block the pain that comes with sensitive teeth. The important thing is that you use it completely in place of regular toothpaste.
• Gum Graft – In some cases, the tooth root loses gum tissue. If this happens, a gum graft can be put in place to protect exposed roots and directly reduce tooth sensitivity.
• Bonding – Sometimes, exposed root can be treated by covering the tooth with resin bonding. This will act like a protection shield to the tooth.

Conclusion

There are many different ways to treat tooth sensitivity. Consult our experienced dentist who will advise you on the best treatment for your situation. If you have any questions at all, schedule an appointment with us for more information.

“Why do I get so many cavities?” Is a common question. You may be following all proper oral hygiene steps, and then you are disappointed to hear that you have yet another cavity. Others may be less into their dental hygiene around you but still come out of a dental visit with no cavities. Every mouth is different and it turns out some people are simply more prone to cavities.

Reasons Why You Might Be Getting So Many Cavities

1. Diet – Tooth decay can often be caused by what we eat and drink. If you don’t typically brush your teeth right after every meal you can cause some damage. Sugar can remain on the teeth, between them, and around your gumline as well. This can become a feeding ground or bacteria. Bacteria will then lease destructive remains that quickly attempt to erode your enamel. This process causes cavities.
   
2. Genetics – Believe it or not, some people are more prone to getting cavities due to their genetics. These people are more susceptible to the strain of bacteria that unfortunately causes those pesky cavities. The entire biome of bacteria in each person’s mouth can differ greatly. Some forms are more aggressive than others. In turn, this can make a person more prone to cavities. With more aggressive bacteria in the mouth, more acid is created which caused the breaking down of enamel.
   
3. Dry Mouth – It’s true that saliva can fight cavities. This is because it washes away bacteria and leftover bits of food in the mouth. But, with a dry mouth, you won’t have a good amount of saliva to rid your mouth of leftover foods and loose bacteria. Dry mouth can happen as a result of medications or simply by not drinking enough water. If you have a dry mouth, consult your dentist about possible treatment options.
   
4. Receeding Gums – With gums being pulled back from the teeth, bacteria obtain easy access. They will make their way to vulnerable roots instantly. It is important to brush with soft bristles and use mouthwash that strengthens enamel. If you are concerned about your receding gums, talk to your dentist today.
   
5. Tooth Shape – Unfourtunately, some people have specific tooth shapes that are more prone to cavities. Teeth with deep grooves tend to collect bacteria and food particles. Due to the nature of the tooth, this can be hard to clean at 100% just by brushing. Also, deeper groves means closer to the root of your teeth. This is something cavity-causing bacteria love.

Reducing Your Risk of Cavities

Luckily, you can do things that reduce your risk of getting cavities:

• See your dentist regularly – This is very important considering your dentist is the tooth expert in the house. Your dentist will thoroughly evaluate your teeth and let you know if anything looks concerning. If you can get ahead of a problem before it progresses, you are much more likely to avoid a bad cavity.
• Brush and floss – It may seem tedious, but brushing and flossing are imperative. Doing this twice a day plays a huge role in prevention.
• Reduce sugars – Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar. That being said, by reducing your sugar intake you are less likely to be at risk for cavities. It can be tempting since sugars are everywhere, but your teeth could do without all the high sugar products in the world.
• Use the right products – When it comes to dental hygiene products there are thousands. Your dentist can prescribe a high-fluoride product that will make the world of a difference. They can also advise you on what over-the-counter toothpaste and mouthwashes are best for your situation.

Conclusion

If you are looking for guidance on how you should be taking care of your teeth or something is bothering you, our experienced dentist will advise you on the best course of action and care for your situation. If you have any questions at all, schedule an appointment with us for more information.

After tooth extraction, often of the wisdom teeth, your experienced dentist will give you instructions. These instructions will detail the best way to keep your mouth clean. This is very important for the healing process. One question that is commonly asked is whether or not it is safe to use mouthwash after a tooth extraction. The short answer is no, but we’ll go in-depth on explaining why.

What is Mouthwash?

Mouthwash is a common, often daily, dental hygiene product. It can strengthen your enamel, break down leftover plaque, and more. Some contain alcohol in order to act as an antiseptic. But, you can purchase mouthwash with no alcohol. It is important to note that using mouthwash is meant to be used in conjunction with brushing and flossing. It is not a replacement for brushing your teeth.

Is it Safe to Use Mouthwash After A Tooth Extraction?

No, it is not safe to used mouthwash after a tooth extraction because it can cause the blood clot to dislodge. The golden rule is to avoid all mouthwash for at least 24 hours after the extraction. Instead, you can swish around warm salt water in your mouth to keep things clean. This can be done 4 times a day.

Also, mouthwash often contains alcohol. This is one of the main things that must be avoided after a tooth extraction. Alcohol can cause a tooth socket to dry up. This can lead to some serious irritation and pain. All that being said, it is very clear that mouthwash is a no-go when you are going through the tooth extraction healing process.

Conclusion

If you are scheduled for any type of tooth extraction or think you may need one, our experienced dentist will advise you on the best course of action and care. If you have any questions at all, schedule an appointment with us for more information.

Nowadays most people are looking for professional teeth whitening. A whiter smile can give anyone a boost of confidence. While there are options to whiten teeth at home, an official service in the office is safer and foolproof. We offer one of the best right here at our Monroe, MI office. Professional whitening is easy and safe with Philips Zoom.

How Does It Work?

First, a typical teeth cleaning by your dentist is highly recommended. Doing this prior to your whitening session will allow for better results. Your session will begin with covering the lips and gums while only leaving the teeth exposed. Then a special Zoom whitening gel is applied to your teeth along with a special light to help penetrate through the teeth. This gel breaks down any stains and discoloration. The gel will remain on your teeth for 15 minutes. This will be done a total of 3 times making the entire session 45 minutes. Once you are done, the dentist will apply a sensitivity-reducing fluoride to your teeth.

The Philips Zoom Blue LED light-accelerated technology and hydrogen peroxide gel whitens quickly. During this time, Amorphous Calcium Phosphate (ACP) is helping by offering enamel protection, reduce the chance of sensitivity, and even improve the luster of your teeth. 

Real Results

Each person’s teeth are different. Some may take more than one session to achieve what they’re looking for while others may be satisfied with just one session. With Philips Zoom Professional Teeth Whitening, you can achieve teeth up to 8 shades whiter than your current color.

Check out Dani’s experience for yourself:

Conclusion

There are many options when it comes to getting a professional teeth whitening treatment. That being said, you deserve the best. From the most reliable whitening treatment to a facility of experienced staff, you can trust us to get your teeth looking their best. Schedule an appointment with us today for more information.

A baby teeth chart helps identify each individual tooth and when they erupt. All teeth come in different shapes and sizes. Also, they each have specific locations in the jaw. Having all these differences is very important. For example, these differences are able to coexist to result in helping people chew, talk, and even make big smiles. This is why it is important to have your child start seeing a dentist within 6 months after that first tooth erupts.

When a baby is born they have 20 baby teeth. These baby teeth will begin to erupt around 6 months old. Baby teeth start falling out at different times throughout childhood. Also, girls’ teeth usually fall out sooner than boys’. Finally, all 32 adult teeth should be permanently erupted by age 21. Here is a baby teeth chart, and an adult teeth chart, provided by the American Dental Association (ADA) for Reference.

Baby Teeth Chart

Adult Teeth Chart

Brushing Baby Teeth

You can begin a brushing routine as soon as you see your baby’s first tooth erupts or when they have a row of 4. Ask your pediatrician what they recommend for your child’s situation if you are unsure. You’ll want to make sure you choose a toothbrush with a small, soft head and large handle. A brand new brush can be quite stiff so be sure to soak it in warm water for a few minutes before using.

When using toothpaste, use children’s toothpaste safe for your baby. Look for kinds of toothpaste with an ADA seal of acceptance. Also, only use a grain-sized amount. You may graduate to a pea-sized amount when your child reaches age 3. Keep in mind that fluoride is safe for children.

Conclusion

You only get one set of permanent teeth so it’s important to start dental care as soon as possible. Baby teeth eruption charts can help you moniter and identify your child’s teeth. Also, you can see if all of them are growning in or if anything seems unusual. If your childs teeth are erupting, it’s important to start regularily seeing a dentist. Talk to your pediatrician today about what’s best for your childs situation.

Looking for dental care for yourself? Request an appointment here.