June 2012 - The Dental Place

June 28, 2012

An adult that has sustained tooth loss from dental decay, trauma or disease has many options. Based on the number of teeth lost, dentures make the perfect solution.

With the loss of one or a couple of teeth, a partial denture is made to match the shape and shade of the remaining natural teeth. Those remaining abutment teeth are used to hold the partial in place.

If replacing an entire arch, a complete denture will serve as the best option. A wax model of what your denture will look like will be made up by your dentist to select the most natural look for you, and a dental lab will fabricate the denture from the model.

Whether or not you are receiving a complete or partial denture, your dentist will fit you with a temporary restoration until your denture is made. When your denture is ready, you will likely need a couple of visits to the dentist as adjustments might be needed to make the denture look and feel as natural and comfortable as possible.

With tooth loss, over time the gum tissue sustains bone loss resulting in a natural shrinkage of the gum tissue. This might require additional adjustments to maintain the best fit of your denture.

Caring for your denture is somewhat different than caring for your natural teeth. Using a soft bristle brush and the recommended cleaning product will keep your denture looking its best. Using a firm brush and toothpaste can damage the surface of your denture. Never make adjustments to your denture on your own as this can weaken the metal clasps on your partial denture.

When not being worn, a denture should be kept moist. There are products available to soak and store your dentures. Never boil or bleach dentures. Boiling can warp the denture and bleaching can turn the gum colored portion of your denture from a natural pink to white.

Taking special care of the gum tissue under your denture is important. Any remaining teeth should be brushed and flossed carefully each day before putting in your denture. Keeping gum tissue healthy will allow the best and most comfortable fit for your denture.

Seeing your dental provider consistently for a professional cleaning and exam will help you keep your denture and remaining teeth healthy for many years.

If you would like more information on the difference between complete and partial dentures, contact our office serving Arlington TX at 972-264-5795 today to schedule a consultation.

June 18, 2012

When a person experiences the loss of one or more teeth, the reality of not being able to eat certain foods is very difficult. Thanks to dental implants, you can regain the ability to eat the foods you love and resume the normal lifestyle you enjoyed before tooth loss.

You can resume eating the foods you love. Continued excellent dental hygiene habits will allow a lifetime of smiles.

A consultation with your implant dentist will confirm if you are a candidate for dental implants.

Good overall health. Your dentist will discuss any health issues that might interfere with the implant process such as immune diseases like diabetes. Certain precautions must be taken to be sure the patient has an excellent prognosis for a successful implant procedure.

Good dental health. A thorough dental exam will be conducted including dental x-rays to be sure there is sufficient bone strength to sustain dental implants. Patients that suffer from periodontal disease might require further treatment prior to undergoing the implant procedure.

Commitment. The patient must be willing to commit to a dental regimen that includes daily flossing and brushing to keep the implant area clean and healthy. Since infection is a leading cause for implant failure, understanding this aspect of care is critical to success.

Tobacco Use. Patients that smoke will be strongly encouraged to quit before undergoing the implant process. Research has shown that smoking is another leading cause of implant failure.

The dental implant will be placed in the gum tissue where tooth loss has occurred. The implant is made from titanium which has been proven to successfully fuse to bone. During the healing process that follows, it will integrate into the gum tissue eventually acting much like the root of your natural tooth.

When healed, your dentist will complete treatment by placing a final restoration that has been fabricated to match the shape and shade of your surrounding natural teeth. At this point, you will have restored the ability to eat, speak and smile with the confidence once enjoyed before tooth loss.

Without concerns about slippage or movement, your new implant is as close to a natural tooth as possible. You can resume eating the foods you love. Continued excellent dental hygiene habits will allow a lifetime of smiles.

To find out how dental implants can benefit your smile, contact our Arlington TX office today to schedule your appointment.

June 8, 2012

Tooth sensitivity is a very common problem and can occur for a variety of reasons. There are multiple solutions to overcome tooth sensitivity and your dental office has a wealth of information to offer relief.

Understanding the origin of sensitivity and what triggers the discomfort is a good place to start. The surface of the tooth is covered by enamel. Underneath enamel lies another layer called the dentin. Simply put, when the dentin becomes exposed due to receding gums, decay or a crack in the tooth, the root of the tooth is no longer protected from the zinging sensations of hot, cold or sweet foods, as well as beverages. Even cold air might trigger a zinging response.

Preventing tooth sensitivity from occurring is optimum. Dr. Robert D. Maxey or Dr. Cecil F. George, Jr. may offer the following tips:

Use a soft bristle tooth brush. Avoid excessive pressure as over time this can lead to unnecessary wear and tear to the teeth and gums.

Floss daily. Plaque build-up can lead to gum disease and sensitivity; daily flossing helps keep gum tissue healthy.

Patients that clench or grind their teeth can cause damage to precious enamel. Wearing a mouth guard at night can help eliminate this habit.

Eat a healthy diet. Limiting sugary snacks and beverages will help prevent dental decay.

Use a fluoridated tooth paste or gel.

Limit the use of whitening products. Consistent use can increase the incidence of tooth sensitivity.

See your dentist twice per year for a professional cleaning and exam.

For patients that already deal with the problems associated with tooth sensitivity, you do not need to suffer. Our cosmetic dentists in Grand Prairie TX may suggest the following products to offer relief that include:

Toothpaste, gels and mouth rinses that contain desensitizing ingredients work very well when used consistently.

Gum recession can lead to exposed root surfaces. Tooth colored composite resin is a filling material that can be bonded to these areas to eliminate exposure and sensitivity.

Fluoride varnishes and other sealers are available to seal off areas of sensitivity.

With research and advancements in dental technology, the use of laser treatment to reduce the discomfort due to sensitivity might be another option, along with other dental services in Grand Prairie. Ask your dental provider to recommend the choices that will provide the best alternative to relieve your tooth sensitivity.

If you are dealing with a tooth sensitivity issue and would like more information on how to treat it, contact our dental office in Grand Prairie TX at 972-264-5795 to schedule a consultation today.