How Does A Dental Bridge Stay In Place?

Having a permanently secured restoration to address a gap in your smile can deliver great cosmetic improvements, and make mealtimes easier. Many patients who want to address tooth loss will rely on a dental bridge. Your bridge consists of your pontic, or your replacement tooth, and a pair of dental crowns. The crowns are placed on the teeth on either side of your missing tooth. Their presence essentially gives you a stable, reliable prosthetic that you can count on to stay secure when you bite, chew, and speak. This can make you more confident in how you look, and make a real improvement to your daily life. (more…)

The Value Of Professional Preventive Dental Care

What is it that makes regular dental checkups so important to your oral health? Each appointment offers two important services – you enjoy a professional cleaning of your teeth, and you receive a careful examination, which can catch signs of trouble. When patients see their dentist regularly, they can have better odds of avoiding problems with tooth decay, and they can be sure that problems receive professional care before a condition has time to grow serious. You can also use these appointments to learn more about help with issues like dental damage, or you can ask about possible cosmetic dental improvements you are interested in making. (more…)

Is Your Dental Crown Strong Enough For Biting And Chewing?

Using a dental crown to restore a problem tooth should allow you to once again count on that tooth for biting and chewing tasks. Whenever you undergo treatment for a problem, like a cavity, your dentist’s goal is to put an end to the issue, and to make sure your tooth is protected. That protection can last for many years, as long as you practice smart oral health care. If you have an older crown that feels loose, or weakened, you should talk to your dentist. Modern crowns can be made with life-like materials, so you can preserve the quality of your smile, while also keeping a vulnerable tooth clear of possible harm. (more…)

Using Modern Dental Fillings For Your Cavity Treatment

How do patients benefit from the use of modern dental fillings, rather than metal fillings? One big drawback to metal fillings lies in their appearance, as they can visually clash with surrounding tooth enamel. Modern fillings are able to closely match the look of your teeth, so they can be inconspicuous. The fillings your dentist provides are also able to bond directly to your tooth structure, for better support. Because metal fillings are unable to do this, and because they can change their size in response to temperature extremes, small spaces that welcome bacteria can be created. Composite fillings provide discreet, lasting tooth support after you undergo restorative dental work. (more…)

Teaching Kids The Value Of Maintaining A Healthy Smile

Teaching kids to value good oral health care, and showing them how they can take care of their teeth, can help them avoid problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Your instructions and support can be valuable, but you can also count on your dentist for help in this matter. Part of every pediatric dental checkup will focus on educating your child about dental care. Your dentist can help them brush and floss more effectively, while also helping them understand why these habits are so important to maintain. Of course, these visits also lead to your child receiving the important preventive dental services patients of all ages enjoy. (more…)

Quiz: Restorative Dental Work And Your Appearance

Patients undergo restorative dental work when they have an issue with the health of their tooth that needs to be addressed through professional care. This typically means treating a cavity, though physical trauma can also call for your dentist’s expertise. One thing you should understand is that when it comes to tooth decay, the damage your dentist addresses is permanent. While our teeth can recover from decay up to a certain point, a cavity does irreparable harm. Fortunately, your dentist can provide you with a restoration that covers up this damage, while avoiding any issues with your appearance. Modern dental fillings and dental crowns can imitate natural tooth structure, while offering valuable functional support, and protection from further problems.  (more…)

Preventing Bruxism From Seriously Harming Your Teeth

Bruxism can lead to chronic jaw problems, sensitivity in your face and teeth, and potentially significant dental damage. Patients who grind their teeth while they sleep face real risks for ongoing discomfort, and the kind of issues that will require restorative dental work. Your dentist can identify the problem, and offer help in the form of a special oral appliance that will keep your teeth safe through the night. By inserting this custom mouth guard before you go to bed, you can spare yourself discomfort, and pain. Bruxism is often associated with TMJ dysfunction – if you are dealing with a teeth grinding habit, your dentist can also look into possible issues with your jaw joints. (more…)