Trying to “grin and bear it” when it comes to tooth pain could leave you at the mercy of a worsening problem. You could have one of many excuses for failing to have a problem examined – you could have trouble dedicating time for a visit, or feel the problem is only temporary. What you should know is that there are real consequences to letting an issue go unchecked. The most immediate effect is having to spend more time in pain. If the discomfort is related to an endodontic problem (a problem within your tooth), putting off treatment could lead to permanent damage, and cost you your tooth. Pain does not have to be rooted in your tooth to qualify for dental treatment. Pain from TMJ problems, which your dentist can treat, can exist in your face, neck, and head. (more…)
Understanding Tooth Discoloration
What does it mean to say that there are different types of tooth discoloration? When it comes to whitening your teeth, distinguishing the two types can be important. A cosmetic whitening treatment is meant to address extrinsic stains. However, intrinsic stains will not show the kind of change you are looking for when you agree to this treatment. This form of discoloration can be solved with porcelain veneers, which completely mask the front of your teeth behind what appears to be flawless, white teeth. Alternatively, you could undergo dental bonding, a procedure where composite resin is bonded to your teeth. The resin’s color can be blended so that it will match with your other teeth. (more…)
Replacing Metal Fillings With Composite Resin
A filling that is made from composite resin can do an effective job of restoring your tooth after a cavity. It has the ability to look like your own natural enamel, and it is capable of bonding with your tooth. You may have an older filling that is not made from this material. In the past, dentists would restore a tooth with metal. These metal fillings, which were also referred to as silver fillings, or amalgam fillings, can have a more conspicuous appearance. They also have functional disadvantages compared to composite resin. If you have a problem with an existing metal filling, or would like to have improved support, it is possible for your dentist to replace a metal filling with composite resin. (more…)
What's Influencing Your Cavity Risk?
Cavity risks vary from person to person – one potential issue could be a serious problem for you, but have little effect on another person. You can work with your dentist to develop a full understanding and appreciation of your particular risks. That being said, there are common threats to your teeth that should be acknowledged. Part of caring for your oral health is being vigilant. You can clean your teeth regularly and see your dentist to limit problems. If you think something is wrong, seek treatment as soon as you can. A cavity caught in time will affect a relatively small portion of your tooth, and your dentist can restore that tooth with a filling. If you ignore a problem, it can become more serious, and may leave you needing a dental crown. (more…)
Quiz: Receiving A Full-Mouth Rehabilitation
A full-mouth rehabilitation can be arranged through your dentist if you have serious work that needs to be done on your teeth. This is a process that can take time, and multiple treatments, but it can result in you having your oral health fully restored. The course of your rehabilitation will depend on the current condition of your teeth; your dentist will help you organize the treatments you need. Procedures can range from strictly health-focused, to work that leaves your smile bright and attractive. (more…)
Avoid Habits That Can Hurt Your Oral Health
Your daily behaviors can work for, or against, your general oral health. From your diet choices to your oral cleaning habits, your actions can influence how likely you are to suffer problems like tooth decay. If you are diligent about brushing and flossing, and enjoy a sensible diet, you can keep your teeth in good shape. Habits that are neglectful of your oral health can lead to a buildup of problems. If you are too slow to respond to issues that develop, you could find yourself in need of multiple treatments. For those who have let their oral care slide for a prolonged period, a full-mouth rehabilitation may be required. (more…)
Preventing Serious Tooth Decay
Your goal should be to avoid tooth decay entirely, with diligence and regular visits to your dentist. If you do have a cavity form on your tooth, you should make sure to have it treated before it becomes serious. Because so many adults will develop a cavity in their lifetime, it is important to understand how to handle treatment, even if you feel you have little to no current risk of having one develop. A cavity will need professional treatment if you want to avoid losing your tooth. Seeking that treatment promptly can leave more of your healthy tooth untouched by decay; restoring your tooth in this case can only require a dental filling. (more…)
Replacing A Lost Tooth Can Help You Avoid TMJ Problems
TMJ problems can mean frequent discomfort, and difficultly with basic jaw movements. It is an uncomfortable, unpleasant condition. While there is no single reason someone will develop issues around their jaw joints, missing teeth can increase your risk. Not only is tooth loss a cosmetic issue, it can also make it difficult to chew and speak comfortably, and make you more likely to lose more teeth. Your dentist can create, and insert, a dental bridge to fill in an absence in your smile. You could also opt to have a dental implant placed, which will provide the kind of support that your teeth receive from their roots. (more…)
Quiz: Keeping Your Teeth White
Are you bothered by the color of your teeth? Do you find yourself worrying that they are not as white as they used to be? A whitening treatment from your dentist can restore the color of your teeth by making them appear significantly whiter. Your dentist can perform the treatment in the course of an in-office appointment, but you can also be provided with the tools you need to perform treatments at home. These treatments can take care of stains in your enamel, even those that sit below the surface of your teeth. (more…)
3 Behaviors That Can Negatively Affect Your Oral Health
Good oral health habits mean fewer dental problems. If you want to avoid the kind of serious tooth problem that can require a dental crown, you should pay attention to how you care for your teeth. You should be mindful of how your teeth are affected by your everyday behaviors. Regular dental checkups and at-home care make a significant difference in the quality of your oral health, but they are not solely responsible for the state of your teeth. One way to benefit your teeth is to drink more water. This can help wash away harmful particles in your teeth, and as a replacement for soft drinks it can mean less sugar in your diet. Avoiding certain habits and behaviors can also help keep your teeth in top shape. (more…)
