The Dental Place

Teeth Whitening: Is it really possible to have a brighter smile?

August 6, 2012

For anyone with a smile that looks tired and jaded, tooth whitening is a possible solution. However, a common question always seeks to be answered: is it really possible to have a brighter smile with teeth whitening?

Ask any cosmetic dentist and the answer will be yes, teeth whitening can brighten your smile and restore a tired, discolored smile back to its natural brilliance. Depending on the severity of the staining, a range of tooth whitening solutions exist to deliver the results you want.

For minor staining, for example, that exists on the tooth’s enamel, specially formulated toothpastes may be sufficient to treat staining and brighten teeth. However, toothpastes’ effect is gradual, and it may take several weeks before the desired results are achieved.

Tooth whitening kits are a popular choice, and these can be bought over-the-counter in most drugstores or through a cosmetic dentist. Drug store kits are often a generic nature, with a one-size-fits-all tooth tray and a ready-mixed bleaching solution that may or may not produce the desired result.

By comparison, teeth-whitening kits supplied by a cosmetic dentist will be much more customised, with a proper-fitting tooth tray and a bleaching solution that has been formulated by the dentist to achieve the desired results both at home, or in the dentist’s office.

Available only from a cosmetic dentist, the Opalescence teeth whitening system, for example, is one that is designed to be performed both at-home, on the move, and in the dental office.

Opalescence teeth whitening system is a gel-based treatment that is administered via a customised bleaching tray and is available in a range of strengths to treat even the most stubborn staining, with fast, effective results.

For those who want to whiten their teeth on the move, Opalescence can be supplied in prefilled disposable packs in a range of flavours to taste. On-the-go treatment is fast, with a typical treatment of around one hour, once a day yielding noticeable results in just one week.

And, for those who seek a quick fix, in-office Opalescence treatment uses a unique chemical formula that isn’t reliant on heat or light to activate its special properties, and provides noticeable results in around one hour. And with potassium nitrate and fluoride as part of its composition, not only will it whiten teeth, but also strengthen them as well.

For more information and to learn how you can benefit from teeth whitening, contact our Grand Prairie dental office at 972-264-5795 and schedule your professional consultation today.

How successful is a root canal treatment?

July 27, 2012

The purpose of a root canal is to clean out infection that has penetrated the root base of a tooth. The goal is to save the tooth and prevent the infection from spreading resulting in an abscess that can produce great discomfort and possibly spread to other parts of the body.

Without a root canal, the likelihood of salvaging the tooth is minimal if infection is present.

With a root canal, the dentist will seal the entire mouth to isolate the tooth being treated. This keeps the area dry and allows the dentist to remove all of the diseased particles to prevent them from spreading to other parts of the mouth or accidentally swallowed.

An instrument is used to reach the spaces that house the nerves in the root of the tooth. This instrument will grab the nerve of the tooth and remove it. Medication is placed in the tooth to clear up any residual infection and to seal the tooth until the final restoration is applied.

Once the nerve and infection are treated, the tooth is usually still viable. A final restoration in the form of either a composite filling or a crown will cover the tooth. The tooth being treated usually dictates what type of restorative treatment is needed after the root canal.

There are many circumstances that can occur that might result in a root canal. Dental decay that has gone unchecked can allow bacteria to penetrate the tooth resulting in infection. A crack in a tooth can be negligible to the naked eye, but big enough to result in infection. Trauma to a tooth can result in a needed root canal right away, or the problem can slowly develop over time.

Without a root canal, the likelihood of salvaging the tooth is minimal if infection is present. It is important to do whatever is possible to save a tooth. Many might just want to pull a tooth rather than work to save it, but saving a tooth is always preferable to losing a tooth.

Once a tooth has been lost, failure to replace a lost tooth with either a dental implant or a prosthetic device can impact eating, speaking, and smiling; quality of life can be affected due to dietary changes or loss of self-confidence.

A successful root canal can ultimately save extensive costly dental work, but more importantly can bring relief from the discomfort of an infected tooth.

If you think you are in need of a root canal, or simply want more information about the treatment process, call The Dental Place, serving Arlington Texas and neighboring areas, today to schedule an appointment.

Treatment Options to Improve Smile Symmetry

July 17, 2012

A smile can reveal much about a person. A big bright smile exudes self-confidence, but for many the condition of their teeth may inhibit offering a big smile. Everyone desires straight, white teeth and thanks to dental veneers that new smile is possible.

A consultation with your cosmetic dentist will provide information to treat and repair many dental imperfections.

Veneers Can Enhance Imperfections

Stained teeth – Teeth can become stained for many reasons. Some medications can stain the teeth. Coffee, tea, wine and soda stain; smoking and tobacco use stain; advanced age can result in a dulling of dental enamel that results in drab teeth coloration.

Wear and tear – Teeth can become worn down and appear uneven over time.

Chipped teeth – It is not uncommon for a tooth to break or chip and this small malady can produce the urge to stop smiling.

Occlusion – When the bite is not correct, this might result in crooked teeth.

Gaps between teeth – Unsightly spaces between teeth appear to close in just a couple of dental visits.

How can one specific treatment be the answer for all of these problems? That’s the beauty of veneers. Veneers are very thin, tooth colored shells that cover dental imperfections. They are made to match the shape and shade of surrounding teeth making them virtually undectable.

You can correct one or several teeth with dental veneers. Your cosmetic dentist will prepare the teeth requiring correction and take dental impressions. The dental lab will fabricate your veneers to the specifications provided.

On the big day, placing the veneers is a relatively simple procedure. A small amount of enamel has been removed from the teeth so that when the veneer is placed the enamel lost is somewhat comparable to the thickness of the veneer.

Your cosmetic dentist will work with the veneers trying them on until they appear perfect. When you and your dentist are satisfied, they will be permanently cemented in place. You now have the perfectly symmetrical smile that you always dreamed about.

To learn more about the benefits of veneers, contact The Dental Place, serving Arlington and surrounding areas, at 972-264-5795 to schedule your consultation.

What Protection Does a Custom Mouthguard Provide?

July 7, 2012

Any activity that presents an opportunity for injury, whether it is due to work or play, may suggest wearing a custom mouthguard that offers unique protection. While generic mouthguards are available at your local drugstore, these generally do not offer a comfortable fit or the needed protection you can obtain with a customized mouth guard fitted specifically for you by your dentist.

The Under Armour Performance Mouthwear™ is fitted by your dentist in approximately twenty minutes.

A mouthguard that offers the maximum protection is critical particularly when you are trying to protect the teeth of a growing child or teen. The Under Armour Performance Mouthwear™ is fitted by your dentist in approximately twenty minutes. In addition to the superb protection to teeth and the soft tissues of the mouth, serious athletes are looking at this product developed by Bite Tech, Inc. to improve athletic performance.

Wearing the “Under Armour Performance Mouthwear™ relieves pressure on the temporomandibular joint. It also helps to prevent excessive production of performance sapping hormones. Athletes in both contact and non-contact sports are turning to this not only for protection, but for additional benefits received.

If you are skeptical about how a mouthguard can enhance physical performance, try to power through a workout without any type of mouth protection. You will likely find yourself clenching and biting down as you move through your exercise. This convenient new technology not only can protect your teeth, but keeps your jaw and teeth in a more relaxed position allowing a better flow of oxygen. In addition, cortisol production is reduced by allowing less stress on your body and better performance is the result. However, for many, the primary goal with any mouth guard is to protect the wearer from injury.

There are a variety of injuries one should anticipate, particularly when playing a contact sport.

Getting one or more teeth knocked out.

Soft tissue damage from biting the tongue, cheeks or lips.

A well-fitting mouth guard can offer protection to the jaw and areas surrounding the mouth.

Your dentist can educate you on the importance of the protection derived from wearing a mouthguard. And now your dentist can also explain how the “UnderArmour Performance Mouthwear™ may enhance your performance at work or play.

With so many options available, we can help you choose the perfect mouthguard that will give you the best fit and advanced protection. Contact The Dental Place in Grand Prairie Texas to schedule a one on one consultation.

Complete vs. Partial Denture

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.

Eat the Foods You Want With Dental Implants

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.

Do I Have to Live With Tooth Sensitivity

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.

Porcelain Veneers: Affordable Luxury

May 25, 2012

Once upon a time, only movie stars could enjoy beautiful smiles. The term “Movie Star Smile” became popular, and cosmetic dentistry was only a dream for most patients.

With the advancement of dental technology and increasing accessibility of dental care, cosmetic solutions have become a reality for virtually anyone. Beautiful, durable materials such as porcelain, ceramics and composites allow your cosmetic dentist to design smiles that were historically reserved for celebrities.

Well, consider yourself a celebrity. Not only can you obtain the smile that you desire, your new smile can be affordable and practical. With porcelain veneers, you can enjoy a luxurious smile for far less than you may have thought. Cosmetic dentistry can be used to transform your smile, correct flaws, and boost your confidence almost effortlessly.

Cosmetic dentistry can be used to transform your smile, correct flaws, and boost your confidence almost effortlessly.

If you are unsatisfied with your smile, or feel that certain improvements could make a big difference in your appearance, porcelain veneers may be the cosmetic solution for you.

For most patients, porcelain veneers can be designed and permanently cemented into place in only one or two dental visits. They are bonded to the front surfaces of the upper or lower front teeth in the shade, size, or shape of your choosing. Your cosmetic dentist will aid you in selecting the veneers that will complement your smile for the most natural and realistic result.

Aside from the cosmetic advantages, porcelain veneers are extremely conservative. Very little enamel is removed, preserving the integrity of your natural teeth.

Your new smile will be strong enough to withstand your active lifestyle and there is no inconvenience in terms of eating or drinking. Avoiding harmful habits such as nail biting and teeth grinding are recommended in order to prolong the lifespan of your veneers. With proper care and routine dental visits, your spectacular smile is designed to go the distance.

Today, you can afford the luxury of a brilliant smile. Our cosmetic dentists have the expertise to craft customized and beautiful veneers that will enhance your smile. To find out more in the Arlington TX area, schedule your consultation today.

Keeping Teeth Healthy During Pregnancy

May 16, 2012

The months before the arrival of your new baby are the perfect time to learn how to learn more about caring for your personal health. It’s important to establish healthy habits as soon as possible in order to protect your own health as well as the health of your baby.

During pregnancy, many of the usual oral hygiene principles apply, but to a greater degree. Some health and dietary factors that are common during and after pregnancy can affect the health of your teeth and gums requiring special attention and care.

Turn to the dentists at The Dental Place in Grand Prairie, TX, Dr. Robert D. Maxey or Dr. Cecil F. George, Jr., as soon as possible for information as to the state of your oral health as well as advice on how to make improvements when indicated. Focusing on preventative care for the next nine months is the best way to get on the pathway to a lifetime of great health.

Diligent brushing and flossing is imperative to protecting your dental health, along with other family and cosmetic dental services. Your obstetrician has likely recommended frequent, smaller meals and snacks in order to maintain your energy level. These meals also provide the additional nutrients that are necessary for your growing baby. Brushing and rinsing away plaque and food particles can help to ward off bad breath, cavities, and gingivitis.

Gingivitis, inflammation of the gums, is a common occurrence seen in pregnant women. The body tends to be overly sensitive to the bacteria found in plaque, triggering bleeding, swelling, and tenderness. Taking steps to keep the teeth and gums clean can help to lessen these symptoms and also prevent the condition from progressing to periodontal disease. These are steps that our dental team near Arlington, TX may suggest.

An increase in the acid level in the mouth is another common factor during pregnancy. Acid reflux, GERD, and nausea can create an acidic environment in the mouth. These acids are known to contribute to tooth decay and sensitivity as well as halitosis. Rinsing with water, gentle brushing, chewing sugarless gums are suggested methods of neutralizing acidic saliva.

It is important to remember that each pregnancy is unique. Your dentist is prepared to provide the specialized care that you deserve. To learn more about your dental health during pregnancy, contact The Dental Place in Grand Prairie, TX at 972-264-5795.

Wisdom Teeth: Why do they become impacted?

May 4, 2012

Tooth impaction is one of the leading causes of wisdom teeth extraction. When the teeth are prevented from growing in properly, a number of dental conditions can arise. Typically, in order to prevent dental and health complications, your dentist will suggest the removal of impacted third molars. In some unfortunate cases, the impacted teeth can cause discomfort and complications that prompt patients to seek their removal.

Dental x-rays and a clinical exam are necessary to diagnose an impacted tooth. Though patients may experience sensitivity or discomfort in the rear of the mouth, a professional diagnosis is the only way to determine if the source is an impacted tooth.

Tooth impaction is one of the leading causes of wisdom teeth extraction.

For the great majority of patients, the wisdom teeth may become impacted due to a lack of space in the mouth. If there space at the very end of the arch is limited, there may not be enough room to allow the wisdom teeth to erupt properly.

When the teeth are not positioned ideally, impaction is often the result. In the case of the wisdom teeth, this scenario presents itself fairly often. The wisdom teeth may be angled toward the front or rear of the mouth, or in some instances, completely sideways. The chances that teeth in this position could erupt in a healthy manner are extremely low. In fact, these teeth can be predicted to lead to damage or other health concerns in the process.

Impacted teeth are the common cause of bone loss and tooth decay in the rear of the mouth. Since it is virtually impossible to clean the area surrounding such a tooth, bacteria are permitted to accumulate and the result is infection of the neighboring teeth and gums.

It is also common for a cyst or pocket to develop around an impacted tooth, contributing to extensive damage of the jaw bone and underlying nerves.

Your dentist has the expertise to evaluate your wisdom teeth in the very early stages of development in order to determine the prognosis. If complications can be predicted, the recommendation may be tooth extraction.

To find out if your wisdom teeth are impacted, schedule a consultation in our Arlington TX office today.