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While genetics may play a small role in your oral condition, problems associated with gum disease are often preventable. There are many things that can contribute to gingivitis or the more serious form of gum disease, periodontitis. But with the proper dental care, you and your family can remain free from gum disease. Causes of Gum Disease Neglect – patients who do not brush and floss are setting themselves up to suffer the effects of poor oral health. Diet – individuals who rely on foods and beverages that contain sugar and carbohydrates are feeding the bacteria already present in the mouth. Plaque begins to harden primarily at the base of teeth and burrows beneath the gum line – you may not be able to see it, but it is there doing damage. Smoking and smokeless tobacco are not only harmful to your body, but it is a proven fact that users are much more likely to develop gum disease. Individuals suffering from crooked or misaligned teeth have areas that are difficult to keep clean. These pockets require professional care on a regular basis, so patients who skip or put off seeing their dentist every six months increase the odds of developing problems down the road. Early Symptoms of Gum Disease Bleeding gums – if gum tissue bleeds during brushing it could be due to the way you are brushing (a hard bristle brush and heavy hand); or you could be suffering from the onset of gingivitis. Red, swollen gum tissue – healthy gum tissue is pink and firm. If you notice a change in the appearance of your gingiva, a visit to the dentist is needed. Bad breath – many foods and beverages can result in bad breath. However, if you notice that you are experiencing bad breath chronically, this can mean an infection is brewing. Pain – many patients make the mistake of believing that gum disease must impact a large area of the mouth. This is not true – gum disease often begins with one tooth or quadrant and advances from there. Don’t ignore discomfort that lasts more than a day or two. Gum disease is preventable, but even the most ardent rule followers may experience a problem. Early attention is key to preventing a problem from escalating. Family dentistry will provide the care you need to resolve issues with gum disease, and educate you on how to prevent a recurrence in the future.
Some of the obvious things that can damage teeth include sugar laden food and beverages that can promote dental decay; smoking and tobacco use that can lead to gum disease and tooth loss; and neglect when it comes to daily teeth cleaning and regular visits with your dentist. But there are a number of other things that also could be damaging your oral health. Five Surprising Things That Can Put Your Dental Health At Risk Nail Biting: This bad habit can result in chipped enamel, broken teeth, and cuts to soft oral tissue from jagged nails. Biting nails can lead to infection or illness. Nail biting is often symptomatic of stress and/or boredom. Things you can do to help break the habit include trimming nails very short, or put something that tastes unpleasant on nails that will help discourage placing fingers in your mouth. Brushing twice a day is very important, but using the wrong tools or brushing incorrectly can lead to erosion of protective dental enamel and wearing away of gum tissue. Patients should use a soft bristle toothbrush and moderate pressure. Never scrub teeth using a back and forth sawing motion. Include gum tissue and your tongue when brushing. Teeth grinding and jaw clenching often begin subconsciously during periods of sleep. Your dentist will be able to spot this problem during your check-up, and may recommend a mouthguard as a solution. Chewing ice can damage teeth. Dental enamel and our teeth themselves are very strong, but the effects of munching on ice can lead to broken teeth and diminished enamel (the protective coating that helps prevent dental decay). Using teeth to open packages is something you see people do all the time. This is why scissors were invented. Using your teeth as tools places undue stress that can lead to broken teeth. Your Dentist Has Solutions If you deal with any of these habits, your dentist can provide the advice needed to help keep teeth healthy. Good dental health is important to maintaining good overall health, so do everything you can to break negative habits and begin new, positive ones. Responsibility begins with you. Daily teeth cleaning and flossing coupled with regular dental visits at the office of Dr. Barry Buchanan are a great start to maintain your best oral health.
Root canal therapy is needed when the nerve of the tooth has been subjected to some type of trauma. A break in a tooth can allow bacteria to permeate the tooth’s interior impacting the nerve; or deep dental decay may be the source of the problem. And while there may be no immediate discomfort, eventually decay or infection could become a problem. Patients often experience sensitivity to hot or cold; some feel pain only when biting down on the affected tooth. What Is Root Canal Therapy? Also referred to as endodontic therapy, root canal therapy is the process where an access point allows the dentist to remove the contents of the pulp chamber. The contents of the interior of the tooth’s chambers include the nerve (which is no longer needed once the tooth has erupted), blood vessels, and tissue. The only other option is to extract the tooth. If a root canal is not performed, the bacteria can cause infection or an abscess to develop. Failure to treat can result in complications such as swelling in the face, neck, or head; or infection can travel to other parts of the body. Since pain is not the only indicator that a root canal is needed, other symptoms to watch for include sensitivity; discoloration of the affected tooth; swelling in the jaw, face, or gums; or a sore resembling a pimple that will not go away. The Root Canal Process A dental x-ray will identify the number of roots involved and their position. It is imperative that all roots are treated. The area is anesthetized, a rubber dam is placed around the tooth to keep it dry, and an access point is created to allow for endodontic files to clean out the root’s interiors. The roots are flushed continually to eliminate debris. Once the root canal is completed, your dentist may elect to prepare the tooth for immediate sealing of the access point or may wait a week or so to make sure any infection has been successfully resolved. The final step before sealing the opening is to fill the interior of the canals with a rubber compound called gutta percha. Depending on the tooth involved, the access point can be sealed with a composite restoration; in many cases a dental crown is the best option. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact our team today.
The anxiety and fear many people experience about a visit to the dentist is very real. In recent years, more options have been made available to alleviate this apprehension making dental visits a comfortable and minimally stressful encounter. So whether it’s a fear of needles or any other phobia, a consultation with your sedation dentist will reveal how you can eliminate stress and receive needed care to help you maintain great oral health. How Does Sedation Dentistry Work? With oral sedation, the patient is prescribed medication to take at home about an hour before their scheduled dental appointment. Upon arrival at the office, additional sedatives are administered to place the patient in a deeper state of relaxation. The patient is continually monitored for their comfort and safety. While the patient remains conscious during treatment, many people report feeling like they slept remembering very little. This type of sedation is also appropriate for individuals who suffer from mental or physical disabilities which may make dental treatment difficult. Patients who are unable to recline for extended periods are able to relax. When the patient is comfortable and relaxed, the dentist is able to proceed with needed treatment which can include anything from teeth cleaning to restorative work and periodontal care. How Do I Know If Sedation Dentistry is Right For Me? Your sedation dentist has received the training needed to offer this service to you. A review of your concerns and needs will help you and your dentist reach a decision for your best options for treatment. You will need someone to transport you to and from your dental appointment as you will be unable to drive. Once treatment is completed, you may feel groggy for the remainder of the day so it is best to return home to rest. Do not plan on going back to work or school. If someone is able to stay with you for a few hours, that is advisable. You should be able to resume your normal schedule the following day with no side effects. Good dental health contributes to maintaining good overall health. If a patient requires assistance to overcome anxiety, mental, or physical limitations, sedation dentistry provides the ideal solution for the patient to receive much needed dental care. To learn more about your options for sedation dentistry, contact the office of Dr. Barry Buchanan today.
No one ever wants to hear those dreaded words … “you have a cavity”. Patients who regularly visit the dentist and follow recommendations for a healthy diet and daily oral care have less chance of requiring restorative dental services such as composite fillings. Proactive Vs. Reactive What is tooth decay and how does it happen? The foods we eat and beverages consumed feed the bacteria already present in the mouth. Bacteria produces acids that can penetrate protective dental enamel resulting in a cavity. Daily brushing and flossing helps to prevent harmful plaque from forming on teeth that can lead to decay and/or gum disease. Consistent visits to the dentist allow for early detection of most oral conditions. Allow your dentist to take x-rays whenever recommended as decay caught early allows for a smaller repair which means much less of your tooth’s structure needs to be removed. If decay is allowed to grow, the need for more extensive repair may be required. This can include a root canal followed by a dental crown to seal the tooth. These are measures that you might be able to avoid with great daily oral care and regular visits with your dentist. Prevention is Optimal, but Early Detection is Very Important There are steps you can take to try to prevent dental decay. Dental Sealants – The chewing surfaces of teeth never treated for a cavity can be coated with a product that seals the surface of the tooth protecting areas where cavities often form. Since decay often occurs in the early years, children can benefit greatly from sealants. Fluoride – Drinking tap water is an excellent source, but your dentist offers fluoride treatments if needed. Use a fluoridated toothpaste to brush; and if recommended, add a fluoride rinse to your daily regimen. Diet – A healthy daily diet will enhance overall and oral health. Limit sugary snacks; read labels on the foods and beverages you consume; limit or avoid drinking soda (but if you do, use a straw and drink with a meal); rely on healthy fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy and protein as your primary sources of nourishment. Visit our dentist, Dr. Barry Buchanan, every six months; if decay does occur, there are restorative dental options that will be virtually impossible to detect, and will stop the harmful decay from growing.
When you smile do you attempt to hide your teeth? If those pearly whites have become drab or stained, you can enhance your smile in the comfort and privacy of your home utilizing teeth whitening that has been tested for your safety and is recommended by your trusted dental provider. Advantages of Take Home Whitening You can brighten your smile on your own schedule … you choose. First thing in the morning, on your lunch break, after work, before an evening out, or just before bed – you decide the best time for you to brighten your smile. You’re in control … once you achieve the level of whitening you desire, you can work to maintain your new smile by daily brushing and flossing and maybe the occasional touch-up. You acquired your teeth whitening kit from your cosmetic dentist … if you have any questions or concerns, simply call and get the answers from a trusted dental professional. No guessing or hoping for a good result. Your teeth whitening kit contains the most powerful whitening agents available in a “use at home” product so when used as directed, you can achieve the great smile you want. Your dentist is providing you with all the tools you need to brighten your smile. Do you really know what you’re buying if your purchase teeth whitening at your drug store or online? Maintaining Your Bright, New Smile There are many foods and beverages that have the ability to stain dentition. Coffee, tea, soda, and red wine are some of the drinks to either limit or avoid. Plan to drink (and swish) water while consuming any of these or use a straw with cold beverages … this will help much of the liquid to bypass your teeth. Many berries, tomato based sauces, beets, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar … these and other foods are known to stain teeth. Tobacco used in any form is not only unhealthy, but cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco all stain teeth. Great dental health is just as important as overall health. Do the things that promote both … eat a healthy diet and drink lots of water. And when it comes to keeping your teeth and gums healthy, brush and floss every day and visit our dentist at least twice a year for cleaning and exam.
Cosmetic dentistry transforms smiles and improves people’s quality of life. If you are suffering with a less-than-perfect smile, our cosmetic dentist can develop a treatment plan that fits your needs, goals, and budget. Our practice offers tooth-colored fillings and crowns, porcelain veneers, and professional teeth whitening. White Restorations Obvious dental work such as silver crowns and amalgam fillings is noticeable to others. While restorations are needed to protect teeth, there are beautiful alternatives to conspicuous restoration materials. Our practice offers tooth-colored fillings made from composite resin and dental crowns made from porcelain. Composite resin is a tooth-colored compound made from a mixture of plastic and glass. These biocompatible restorations bond well to teeth, provide protection from acid and debris, and restore a smile with a natural, lifelike appearance. Porcelain, which is also used for white restorations like dental crowns and bridges, is beautiful and lifelike. Available in an array of white shades, porcelain looks and feels like biological tooth structure. Porcelain Veneers If your smile is afflicted with various types of cosmetic concerns, porcelain veneers might be a great option for producing the appearance of a straight, white, and uniform smile. Veneers are cosmetic enhancements that are permanently fixed over the outer surfaces of teeth. They effectively conceal imperfections like chips and stains. When multiple veneers are used, they can hide the effects of worn dentition and improperly spaced teeth, too. Veneers are custom made to exact specifications so that they look natural and complement your unique oral anatomy. Professional Teeth Whitening Professional teeth whitening treatments are a great way to improve your appearance without permanently altering tooth structure. Our practice offers take-home whitening kits that use high quality, prescription-grade whitening solutions for effective, predictable results. Many patients enjoy smiles that are ten shades brighter after professional whitening treatments. Living with an imperfect smile is distressing. Dental imperfections can contribute to feelings of social isolation and depression. Investing in cosmetic dental treatments improves aesthetic concerns and boosts self-confidence. If you’re interested in enhancing your appearance, call the office of Barry Buchanan, DDS, to reserve a smile makeover consultation with our cosmetic dentist.
Advancements in technology and prosthetics have given patients more options than ever before for replacing their missing teeth. Dental implants are one of the most popular tooth replacement options available today; and for good reason, they’re incredibly durable and lifelike. Implants are the ideal tooth replacement solution because they can last for decades, restore oral function, and support the entire oral health system. How Dental Implants Function Dental implants are unlike any other prosthetic available because they replace the missing root systems of teeth. Replacing the roots of teeth is accomplished by embedding a titanium post directly into the jawbone. This post is shaped like a cylinder and since it’s made from titanium, bone in the jaw will fuse to it so that it stays in place. Once the implant is stabilized, it can be used to support dental crowns, bridges, and even dentures. The materials used to construct the restorations or dentures attached to dental implants can look incredibly natural. Crowns and bridges can be constructed from tooth-colored materials like porcelain or porcelain fused to metal, which lend a very lifelike aesthetic as replacement teeth. Dentures are made from a combination of porcelain to duplicate the appearance of teeth and acrylic bases that are tinted to resemble the gingiva. Benefits of Implant Dentistry Implant dentistry offers unique advantages to patients when compared to conventional tooth replacement methods like bridges or dentures. Conventional bridges and dentures only replace the visible surfaces of missing teeth, not the roots. This means that over time, patients can struggle with bone atrophy and their prosthetics moving during oral function. With implants, however, one will not experience movement of their replacement teeth during meals or when speaking. Bone loss is a common side effect of tooth loss because the jaw at the site of tooth loss lacks stimulation. Since dental implants are loaded into the jawbone, they keep bone active and stimulated. Retaining bone is important for maintaining a youthful appearance and comfortable oral function. Preserving bone helps support existing teeth and other prosthetics, too. If you are evaluating your tooth replacement options, call our office to reserve a consultation with our implant dentist.
When teeth develop decay, restorative dental care is needed to protect healthy tooth structure and prevent the development of infections and further degradation of teeth to disease. One common method for treating tooth decay is by having a dentist place a dental crown. These restorations are recommended for advanced tooth decay that has affected a significant amount of tooth structure. How can a dental crown benefit me? Dental crowns are more extensive restorations than fillings. They protect all visible surfaces of tooth from oral debris and bacteria. They strengthen existing tooth structure, too. This means that people who have extensive decay can simultaneously prevent the advancement of decay and protect existing tooth structure with a dental crown. An oral healthcare provider might also recommend dental crowns for teeth that have been cracked and chipped as well as those affected by substantial tooth wear. What do dental crowns look like? Dental crowns are shaped like teeth, except that they have a hollowed center. They can be fabricated from a few types of materials that affect their appearance. Common materials used to produce crowns include metal alloys like gold, silver, and zirconia. Those desiring discreet restorations often choose porcelain or porcelain fused to metal for a more natural looking appearance. How do I care for dental crowns? Dental crowns are easy to take care of because you can treat them like natural teeth. You will brush and floss your biological teeth as well as your restorations. Some patients choose to use oral hygiene tools like water irrigators to clean around the base of their restorations. While dental crowns are very durable, it is important to take precautions to protect your restorations. This means that you should avoid chewing on hard objects like pen caps and ice cubes. You should also receive routine checkups and cleanings to ensure that your teeth and your restorative dental work are in good shape. For more information about the restorative dental services we offer, call our practice today to reserve time with our dentist.
Are you dreaming of a whiter, straighter smile? Cosmetic dental treatments like porcelain veneers could change your life. These versatile smile enhancements produce the appearance of a perfect smile – free from flaws like permanent stains, chipped and crooked teeth, and worn dentition. They can make teeth appear perfectly straight and symmetrical. Benefits of Porcelain Veneers When it comes to perfecting a smile, porcelain veneers can accomplish many objectives. Patients who receive veneers might suffer from the following dental imperfections: Chipped teeth Asymmetrical teeth Orthodontic issues like crowded, crooked, gapped, and overlapped teeth Intrinsic and extrinsic tooth stains When veneers are placed, a person enjoys an instantly brighter, straighter smile. Veneers are made to very exact measurements, too. This means they will perfectly accommodate a person’s oral anatomy to produce a beautiful and natural-looking smile enhancement. How Veneers Work Porcelain veneers are wafer thin, handcrafted pieces of porcelain. They are shaped like teeth. Each veneer is made to fit over a specific tooth. A cosmetic dentist usually places porcelain veneers over the most visible teeth. Receiving veneers is minimally invasive and normally only local anesthetic is needed. The first step to receiving veneers is to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation. If a patient decides to pursue veneers, the cosmetic dentist will remove a thin layer of tooth enamel in order to accommodate the veneer. Molds, along with photos and X-rays, are taken of a person’s mouth. The information gathered is then sent to a dental lab where the veneers are custom crafted. Once a patient’s veneers are ready, he or she will return to our office to have them permanently bonded to their teeth. Our cosmetic dentist will slightly etch tooth structure to create a rough surface to which veneers can bond. Then dental cement is used to place them. As the bonding material dries, final adjustments are made to ensure that veneers are perfectly placed. If you’re interested in pursuing your cosmetic treatment options, call the office of Dr. Barry Buchanan to reserve a consultation.
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