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Proper tooth brushing is essential to the health of all children. Children have to be taught good brushing habits and proper brushing techniques. Failure to teach these disciplines can encourage negligence that will follow a child into adolescence and adulthood. Proactive parents should supervise their children as they are brushing their teeth to make sure they are doing it correctly and for long enough periods of time.
Children need to brush their teeth at least two times a day, but it is better to have them brush after each and every meal. There are four things to keep in mind as well.
The type of toothbrush matters.
Children must always use a soft bristle brush. Medium and hard bristle brushes should NOT be used. A soft toothbrush is more able to remove plaque below the gumline. This is essential to dental heath, because plaque below the gumline contributes to rampant cavity formation in young children.
Medium bristle and hard bristle toothbrushes do not have the flexibility necessary to reach under the gum, and they have a tendency to cut the gums.
Children should brush with fluoride toothpaste.
Fluoride makes tooth enamel harder and more resistant to tooth decay. It can stop a in its tracks and make it easier to repair the tooth with cosmetic dental bonding (we do not use silver amalgam fillings in pediatric dentistry.)
Please keep in mind that fluoride toothpaste should never be swallowed. Teach this to your children and store the toothpaste out of reach until they are old enough to understand the dangers of fluoride toxicity.
The angle at which children brush their teeth is also very important.
The toothbrush should be tilted so the tip will brush the backs of the front teeth. This gives the insides of the teeth more attention. It is better for children to begin by brushing the insides of the upper teeth, then switch to the insides of the lower teeth.
It is necessary for children to brush their teeth in a specific pattern.
Whatever teeth the child starts brushing, it is important that he or she follow the same pattern every day to make sure all tooth surfaces are cleaned. Children need to be regularly reminded to gently brush their tongues and the roofs of their mouths. As strange as such advice may seem at face value, it is actually very healthy for the child because it removes the same germs that cause plaque buildup and bad breath.
We have also found, after many years of practicing pediatric dentistry, that children sometimes consider it even more fun to brush their tongues than their teeth!Labels: dental floss, pediatric dentistry, tooth brushing
Infant tooth care
Pediatric dentistry begins as soon as your child gets his or her first tooth. As teeth come in, you should begin cleaning them after each feeding with a moist gauze pad or washcloth. You should also clean the gums. As your child grows, be sure to also floss his or her teeth, and pay attention to places where the teeth are close together.
Flossing
Flossing to plaque where a toothbrush cannot reach and is essential to keeping teeth and gums healthy.
Space maintainers
If a baby tooth is prematurely lost, it can cause a loss of space in the dental arch. Pediatric dentists use space maintainers to keep this from happening. It only takes two appointments, on the average, to make a space maintainer.
Disclosing tablets are used to expose hidden plaque
Plaque is the main culprit for cavities and gum disease, but it is virtually invisible to the naked eye. Dentists use disclosing tablets, made from bio-friendly vegetable dye, to stain the teeth bright red and expose the plaque.
Repair of fractured anterior teeth
New bonding techniques and materials used in pediatric dentistry now allow cosmetic dentists to restore a fractured tooth to virtually new condition.Braces
Braces make it hard for children to remove all of the plaque from their teeth. Children should use a soft toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste. They should brush after every meal in a circular pattern.
Ankylosis
If a primary tooth loses its normal ligament connection to the jaw, it becomes fused directly to the bone. This often occurs with lower first molars. If this happens to your child, schedule a visit to a dentist immediately.
Stainless steel crowns
Pediatric dentists use stainless steel crowns to repair primary teeth that have been damaged by large cavities. These crowns are much less expensive than porcelain equivalents and can be placed in a single visit.
Filling procedure
A rubber dam, made from a stretchy, rubbery material, is placed in the mouth to act as a safety net against debris.
The dentist then removes the decay from the tooth and reshapes its surface with the handpiece. He or she molds the composite bonding material to fit the shape of the tooth and presses it into its surface.
Cavities
Cavities are possibly the biggest problem that growing children face. Dental hygiene and regular trips to the dentist are the best way to protect your children against rampant tooth decay, pain, and alignment problems that can result from teeth that are left unattended.
Pulpectomy
In pediatric dentistry, a pulpectomy is the equivalent of a root canal in an adult tooth. It removes the infected nerve and fills the space with bonding material.
Pulpotomy
This procedure is less intensive than a pulpectomy. It involves removing only some of the irritated portion of the pulp and leaves the remainder of healthy root canals intact. Labels: cavities, cosmetic dental braces, dental fillings, pediatric dentistry, pulpectomy, pulpotomy, stainles steel crowns
There are many causes of tooth loss. The most important thing you can do to protect yourself against tooth loss is to take consistent, proactive care of yourself. Failure to take preventative measures can cause your teeth to decay, or it can contribute to periodontal disease.
Preventative care involves more than simply brushing your teeth. You must visit a dentist at least once a year, even if you think your teeth are ok. We recommend you get a full dental examination and teeth cleaning to protect you against the main causes of tooth loss.
You also need to follow a rigorous program of home dental hygiene. This includes a healthy diet, brushing your teeth at least twice a day, and flossing. You may not like to floss, but it is one of the most things you can do to prevent cavities. Without flossing, plaque will accumulate between your teeth and give cavity-causing bacteria an environment in which to grow.
While everyone needs to do their practice self care, there are many individuals who must be particularly aggressive in preventing the causes of tooth loss. These people are more at risk because of a number of medical conditions.
Post-menopause in Women
Research has proven that the low estrogen levels (typical after menopause) make a woman more vulnerable to gum disease, (also known as Periodontitis). This condition affects more than gum tissue. Severe cases can also deteriorate the jawbone and cause tooth loss.
Osteoporosis or a Family History of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis can diminish the density of jaws, causing teeth to lose their solid foundation and become loose. Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis than men. Anyone men who suffers from osteoporosis should see a dentist twice a year for checkups and cleaning and must rigorously pursue home dental care.
Substance Abuse
We often stereotype substance abuse as the use of illegal drugs. However, tobacco and drinking alcohol (both chemicals--and both toxic) can cause tooth loss. Smokeless tobacco is a chemical that places a person at very high risk for tooth loss because it absorbs directly into tissues of the gum. The CDC has published statistics indicating that smokeless tobacco users are FOUR TIMES more likely to suffer from tooth decay than smokers and non-tobacco users.
Genetic Predisposition to Periodontal Disease
Many people are more prone to develop gum disease than others. We do not know exactly why this is so, but their gums will slowly and painlessly begin to pull away from the base of the teeth. If this is not addressed, the supporting bone tissue beneath the teeth will deteriorate and the teeth will become loose.
Misc other Causes
Tooth loss can also happen because the person does not consume enough calcium. The natural effects of aging, a lack of exercise, and, in some cases, an exceptionally slender build are also contributing factors in some people.
If you are among any of these high-risk groups for tooth loss, call our office immediately for a full dental exam. Let our team of dentists recommend a treatment plan that will prevent the cause before we have to treat a major dental condition after the fact. Labels: causes of tooth loss, dental hygeine, loose teeth, preventative dental care
Parents are often puzzled by cavities that develop in the teeth of their children. Most of these children are too young, in the eyes of their parents, to have such dental condition. Facts are, children can experience tooth decay almost as soon as their teeth come in, so understanding what causes cavities, and staying away from misinformation and myth, is the best way to maintain a child’s dental health.
One of the many complaints that dentists hear from parents is that a child should never have cavities if he or she avoids eats sugar. This is not exactly the case. Many people believe that white sugar, candy, and other sweets are the main causes of cavities in children. They believe that by simply preventing their children from eating these foods, they will protect them against cavities.
The facts are quite different. In actuality, there are a number of hidden sugars in foods that most people would never refer to as sweets. Breads, milk, and even potatoes contain sugars that can and do cause cavities in children. Still other foods normally labeled nutritious, such as fruit, can be turned into derivative snack products that cause tooth decay. Fruit rollups and raisins both have certain types of sugars that stick to the tooth surfaces. These sugars will remain on the tooth enamel longer than those in a soda. Surprisingly as well, any drink in a baby bottle, even milk, has enough sugar to cause tooth decay if the baby keeps the milk in his or her mouth for a long enough period of time.
If a person has a nursing infant and the upper teeth are still coming in, the teeth will be exposed for prolonged periods of time during nursing. Oral bacteria feed on the sugars in milk and will damage an infant’s formative teeth if action is not taken. The best defense against cavities in infant children is to use a special, soft bristle toothbrush made just for babies. Teeth can also be wiped with a washcloth, cotton swap, or cotton ball after each feeding. There is another myth going around that genetics somehow causes cavities in children. While it may be true that genetics plays a possible role, the facts are that cavities are almost always the result of behavior or negligence, not some unknown force in the DNA. For instance, if one child out of a family of 5 has six cavities, and the rest of the children have none, there is more than likely some very simple, rational explanation. The child may be eating more treats or using improper brushing or flossing techniques.
In such instances, guidance and supervision are the only ways to direct children into better eating habits and dental hygiene practices.Labels: cavities in children, pediatric dentistry, tooth brushing, tooth decay
Ask The Dentist
This forum gives you the opportunity to ask a dentist about conditions you may be experiencing and treatment options you may want to consider. This forum is free and open to the public.I have a very sore throat, swelling around my throat, and bad breath. Do u think I could have an abcess?
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Hi, Tammy –
In trying to figure out your problem, you have to figure out what is logical – what is most likely. There are a lot of things that can cause sore throat. Most are simple and common to us all – the most likely thing is viral or bacterial infection – tonsils, adenoids, etc.
Bad breath can be caused by several things – the most likely is dental calculus and plaque that would be resolved by having your teeth cleaned and any periodontal treatment taken care of, but tonsillar infections can also cause an odor.
So --- there are several questions you have to consider
How long has this been going on?
Short term is very different from something that has been there for a long time
Do you have a fever or difficulty in swallowing?
There are some infections that can be dangerous if not taken care of quickly – not usually, but it is possible
Bottom line is that you need to be seen by a doctor – perhaps your medical doctor, and probably your dentist. Professional eyes need to look you over as soon as possible to rule out anything that might be dangerous.
I would recommend that you call today! You can start at your doctor’s office, or in our dental office – you will have to judge which is the most likely problem and let that guide your choice of who you will see first.. Then your care can be coordinated into a logical plan.
Call (713) 795-5905
Chuck Campbell, DDS
If you feel you are suffering from an aging smile, do not despair or give up on yourself. There are many cosmetic dental treatments that you can receive that can correct these problems. Each of these restorative treatments has its own advantages and disadvantages associated with it, so ask your dentist which one is right for you.
Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers can restore a natural-looking appearance to an aging smile. They are made from thin shells of porcelain that are approximately the thickness of false fingernails. The dentist bonds them to either the front or the top of your teeth. Because porcelain veneers are so thin, light can pass through them and allow them to take on the appearance of underlying tooth enamel.
Advantages
Veneers are very tough, and they will last for many years. They will radically improve the appearance of your aging smile. Should your veneers ever become damaged; the dentist can easily repair them.
Disadvantages
The only disadvantage to veneers is the small amount of tooth reduction that is needed. This is non-reversible, so once veneers are bonded to your teeth, you will have to rely upon them for the rest of your life.
You should only allow a trained, experienced cosmetic dentist to bond porcelain veneers to your teeth. The process is simple enough, though, if performed by the right hands, and it only takes two appointments to complete.
Cosmetic Dental Bonding
Another way to cosmetically improve an aging smile is through cosmetic dental bonding. This is a three-step procedure that can be done in only one office visit. It consists of three simple steps. First, the dentist etches the front of the teeth with a mild acid. He or she then applies a special bonding resin to the etched surface, which is in turn hardened with a high-intensity light.
Advantages
Dental Bonding material is made to match the natural color of teeth and looks indistinguishable from the natural.
Disadvantages
The acid used in bonding removes a portion of tooth enamel, so you must rely upon bonding for remainder of your life.
All Porcelain Crowns
One embarrassing, and sometimes painful, result of an aging smile is tooth abfraction, or cracked teeth. Porcelain crowns can make these teeth appear as good as new. We recommend all porcelain crowns because they look just like natural tooth enamel, and because they also mimic the shape of natural teeth. Crowns give structural support and protection for teeth and help close gaps between teeth.
Advantages
All porcelain crowns that are made by a trained, experienced cosmetic dentistry center will appear to be natural teeth. They can superbly improve your appearance, and they will last for many years, or even possibly the rest of your life. They also require the least amount of tooth reduction, which really does not matter anyway if a tooth is cracked, decayed, or damaged.
Disadvantages
The only negative associated with all porcelain crowns is they may wear on opposing natural teeth if you bite down too hard. Labels: cosmetic dental bonding, porcelain crowns, porcelain inlays, porcelain veneers
Ask The DentistThis forum gives you the opportunity to ask a dentist about conditions you may be experiencing and treatment options you may want to consider. This forum is free and open to the public.My daughter just turned 3, and has gotten a hold of a couple of tubes of toothpaste over the course of the past 6 months. We always tried to keep it locked up, but some how or another, she got at it anyway. At least 3 tubes of toothpaste that I can count were destroyed. I was never sure how much of the toothpaste was actually consumed as apposed to just being smeared over things. I never called poison control because she never showed any signs of fluoride overdose so I didn't worry when it happened.
However, now I'm concerned about the possibility of her having problems when her adult teeth come in. What is the likelihood that she will have dental fluorosis from having consumed toothpaste at this age (2.5 to 3). Is there anything that can be done NOW, several weeks/months after the incident, or are there any precautions I can take at this point to improve the outlook for her adult teeth?_______________________________________________________________________________________________
Thanks for the question. There can certainly be problems from fluoride ingestion. Much depends on how much your child truly swallowed, what the body weight of the child is, etc. There can be serious effects. No one knows the answers absolutely to your questions, it will all depend on how much was actually swallowed. Hopefully there will be no long term problems that ensue from the ingestion of toothpaste, but only time will tell.
In years past, we would routinely write prescriptions for supplementary fluoride to be given to children, either by drops or by pill form. The realization that kids get more fluoride than we realize -- in the water they drink as well in ingested toothpaste -- led pediatric dentistry to just about eliminate the supplements.
The only precaution I would make is to move your toothpaste higher in the cabinet.
FACTS ABOUT FLUORIDE TOXICITY:
-Early symptoms of acute fluoride toxicity (gastrointestinal pain, nausea, vomiting, headaches) can be produced at doses as low as 0.1 to 0.3 mg/kg.
-Swallowing fluoride at the amount of 5 mg/kg can be fatal
-Ingestion of as little as 1 percent of a tube of flavored children’s toothpaste can produce acute fluoride toxicity in a young child
THE MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS OF ACUTE FLUORIDE TOXICITY INCLUDE:
Nausea – 97%
Vomiting – 68%
Diarrhea – 65%
Abdominal cramps – 53%
Headaches – 41%
Burning sensation in the throat or chest – 12%
Chuck Campbell, DDS Labels: fluoride, fluoride toxicity
Dental makeovers give you an entirely new smile there are a number of things you can count on receiving when you come to the Cosmetic Dentistry Center for advanced dental services.
Cosmetic Tooth Whitening
Teeth get darker as we age. They also get stained from things we eat and drink. A lot of people smoke too, which definitely creates a yellowing effect on the teeth.
One of the things a person gets from a dental makeover is cosmetic tooth whitening services. The dentist applies a special bleaching gel to your teeth to remove stains. He or she then sends you home with a special ray to apply home bleaching agent for the next two weeks. After that, you return for a second office visit and a final bleaching session.
All-Porcelain Bridges
Another great aspect of a dental makeover is the use of all-porcelain bridges. In past years, bridges were made from a blend of porcelain and metal. However, the presence of the metal would eventually show up as a blue line near the gums, which made it obvious that the patient was wearing a bridge.
The bridges used today are far more sophisticated. They are made completely out of porcelain and can handle normal biting and chewing just like natural teeth. They also look like natural teeth!.
Porcelain Veneers
Sometimes we only need to reshape a tooth, and the method we use to do this is with the application of porcelain veneers. Veneers are made from thin shells of porcelain and are bonded to the teeth by the dentist. They also help close gaps between teeth, help lengthen small or misshapen teeth, and even help whiten teeth with stains on them. Porcelain veneers will also last for many years.
All-Porcelain Crowns
In the old days, dentists often had to pull teeth that had decayed or fractured past a certain point. With the invention of dental crowns, however, dentists could then save many of these teeth by first performing a root canal, then capping it with a crown. Crowns had to be cast out of a blend of metal and porcelain in order to give them a somewhat natural look but also the needed strength to handle biting and chewing.
Today’s all-porcelain crowns are light years past those used in the past. They have a strength that is unsurpassed by their predecessors, and they look identical to natural teeth. They even have a translucence that mimics the color and texture of natural tooth enamel.
Dental Implants
A dental makeover can actually replace missing teeth as well through implant dentistry. Titanium implants, which are bio-friendly, can be inserted into the jawbone, where they take the place of tooth roots that have been lost. After the bone accepts the implant, the implant is then capped with a porcelain crown.Labels: cosmetic dental crowns, cosmetic dental implants, dental makeover
Ask The Dentist: Dental Implant Options
Ask The DentistThis forum gives you the opportunity to ask a dentist about conditions you may be experiencing and treatment options you may want to consider. This forum is free and open to the public.I have had dentures since i was 23 and have some bone deterioration of the bone in my lower jaw. I want more than anything to be able to brush my teeth. People take that for granted. My upper jaw i saw that now you have the implants that do not cover the whole top of the mouth. I also would like that. I know the cost is going to be some what high but i have also seen that they have mini implants and that does lower the cost. I am 31 and hate having dentures.
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Hi, Angela.
You are the perfect candidate for dental implant treatment. There are several different options that you will have, depending upon the amount of residual bone that you have. You need to begin the process by coming in for a comprehensive exam. We can then tell you a lot about what options would be best for you. If you will call our office, I have alerted Debbie to look for your call. She can answer just about any question you might have, and she can get you scheduled at a time when we can spend enough time to help you fully understand your options. We have photos and plaster models of just about any of the appropriate treatments for you. It is easier to explain these things when we can be knee-to-knee and spend some time together.
Hope to see you soon!Labels: cosmetic dental implants
Diagnodent is a new dental science that can detect the smallest amounts of tooth decay. This method is far more effective than previous treatments that have historically had difficulty locating cavities that hide in the pits and grooves of molars. In the past, dentists had to use by X-rays to find these cavities, but even then sometimes the very smallest of cavities were still t0o hard to detect.
Diagnodent is far more sophisticated. It uses a laser to scan the teeth. This laser consists of several wavelengths of light, including fluorescent light, which possesses a very unique quality. When it strikes a cavity, fluorescent light bounces off and returns to a sensor, which in turn converts its findings into a numeric readout. If the Diagnodent laser detects an actual cavity, it makes an audible sound.
People often ask us why such a sophisticated piece of technology like Diagnodent had to be invented to begin with just for the sake of finding cavities. The answer may be surprising to you. Detecting cavities is no longer easy. They are smaller than ever before because fluoride in city water supplies has changed caused tooth enamel to become much harder than it was in previous centuries. While it is true that fluoride successfully strengthens teeth against larger cavities, smaller pockets of tooth decay are still able are much, much harder to find. If these cavities do gain a foothold, they often penetrate directly into the dentin layer before they are finally discovered.
Diagnodent is a painless procedure, so if you are one of among the many people who simply cannot stand to have a dental probe in their mouths, you will certainly appreciate the benefits of laser technology. The comfort zone that the laser creates is simply amazing, because it makes going to the dentist a quick, simple, and painless experience.
Diagnodent is often used hand-in-hand with dental X-rays. X-rays are still very good at finding cavities between teeth, near the gumline, and close to tooth roots. However, they miss smaller cavities on the surface many times. When a laser is used as a complement to dental X-rays, then even the tiniest developing cavities do not escape from detection.
Whenever decay is found in its very early stages, dentists can treat it with far less expense and far less complicated treatment. Decay in its very early stages can be removed with micro-dentistry and air abrasion without having anesthetize the mouth and drill a hole in the tooth. Cosmetic dental bonding can then be used to repair the surface of the tooth after the decay has been removed. Dental bonding is much more natural-looking in appearance and more resilient to further wear on the teeth than standard metal fillings.Labels: cavities, dental x-rays, diagnodent, tooth decay
The Compudent system, featuring The Wand® is a computer-controlled anesthetic delivery system that has radically reduced the discomfort associated with numbing your teeth before treatment. It is much easier for your dentist to handle than a needle, and it is much easier on your mouth. The microprocessor that controls it allows it to deliver anesthetic with unparalleled precision because the flow rate is controlled by the computer, not by a human thumb. This ensures that the exact amount of anesthetic you need is delivered, and no more.
We find that the Compudent Wand® is easier for us to use is because it is much easier on our hands. It is a very ergonomic piece of equipment that does not produce muscle fatigue. It also feels much better for you, the patient, because you barely feel the force of the anesthetic delivery. It can deliver a dose anywhere in your mouth with hardly any pressure at all.
If you are one of those people who have always been afraid of needles, then the Compudent system is perfect for you. Needles may hurt you, or you may simply be afraid of what looks like the biggest needle you have ever seen as the dentist reaches for your mouth! To be honest, dental needles themselves are not what cause pain. It is the pressure of the medication forced into the tissue by pressure from the thumb. With the Compudent Wand®, however, this problem is overcome by three variable flow rates delivered at three different speeds, including ControlFlo and RapidFlo. This is painless compared to a needle.
Many other injections can also be more accurately delivered using The Wand®. The TurboFLo injection rate takes the same amount of time as standard needles, but with no pain. This is because when the flow begins; the microprocessor automatically adjusts it to produce an optimal rate. The anesthetic is delivered by the Compudent system in the form of a small drip at first. Then, the computer automatically produces an optimum speed that is most suitable for you.
The benefits to you are obvious. Due to its precision, the Compudent Wand® will get the job done with a smaller dose of anesthetic. With needles, you actually get too much anesthetic injected into your mouth due to the less accurate measurements and speed of manual delivery. Second, due to the fact that the anesthetic flows in specific amounts to specific areas, it does not create the same widespread numbing produced by typical injections.
By eliminating pain and anxiety, The Compudent System enables people to overcome of their fear of needle and seek out dental treatment without procrastination.Labels: compudent system, dental anesthetic, the wand
Air abrasion is a new dental science that lets dentists remove the smallest possible amount of tooth structure while removing tooth decay. It also lets dental professionals use stronger, more natural looking cosmetic tooth restoration techniques. Air abrasion is truly both a tooth saver and a time saver.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, general dentists used manually operated tools. The traditional metal probe, which is actually still used in general dentistry today, was the mainstay tool for detecting pockets of tooth decay, and for removing tartar and decay from teeth. However, its main disadvantage lay in the fact that it removes a great deal of tooth surface area in the process. Over the past few years, dental science has developed new methods like micro-dentistry for detecting cavities that are far less invasive to tooth structure. Air abrasion is a new technology that allows for a minimum of tooth damage combined with the maximum possibility of tooth decay removal.
The key to its success is the ability of air abrasion to remove decay on teeth without touching them.
A special handpiece propels tiny, abrasive particles through a stream of clean, dry air onto the teeth. This is remarkably effective for solving a number of tooth problems. It is also effective for removing discolorations and stains, and it can repair and replaces small fillings. Most importantly, though, it used to exposes hidden cavities.
These cavities, although very small, are very much a big problem. Because municipal water supplies contain fluoride which hardens teeth, cavities now form as very tiny spots of decay on tooth enamel. These spots can then penetrate the hardened enamel and worth their way into the dentin. Because they are very hard to see with the naked eye, they are also very hard for dental instruments to detect and treat.
Special dyes have to be used to find these tiny cavities, and then air abrasion has to be employed to remove decay in order to repair the tooth with cosmetic dental bonding. Air abrasion and micro-dentistry offer many advantages over the typical way of dealing with cavities. There is no anesthetic or drilling involved. Also, there is little or no heat and the majority of the patients who receive air abrasion treatment find it to be remarkably comfortable as well as painless. People can come in, sit comfortably through the treatment, then drive back to work or back home with no side effects and no numbness in their mouths. This is perfect for busy professionals on the go.
The greatest thing about air abrasion is that it better preserves teeth than do probing tools and dental drills. Because only a minimal amount of tooth structure is removed, most of the natural tooth remains intact. Labels: air abrasion, cavities, micro-dentistry, tooth decay
A new dental technology called micro-dentistry uses special tools like dyes and air abrasion to detect, and remove tiny areas of tooth decay. Micro-dentistry was developed in response to municipalities putting fluoride in city water supplies. This was done to purify water of bacterial agents that could and did cause widespread tooth decay (and other ailments) in entire populations.
While the introduction of fluoride into municipal water supplies solved the problem of pandemic tooth decay, it had the secondary effect of changing the nature of tooth enamel itself. Fluoride hardens the surface of tooth enamel and makes it resistant to the formation of larger cavities. This does not prevent tooth decay completely, however. It simply changes the way tooth decay develops. Before introduction fluoride was introduced into water supplies, cavities normally struck the exposed grooves in the surface of a tooth. These cavities were very easy to detect with a dental explorer (the small metal probe used in general dentistry) and standard film dental x-rays. Everything is different now. The changes in enamel structure caused by fluoride in public drinking have caused cavities to be much smaller and difficult to diagnose than ever before. Micro-dentistry has been developed as a response to effectively counter this problem.
What now happens when a cavity forms is tooth decay penetrates what appears to be perfectly strong, intact tooth enamel. Cavities can then penetrate the softer dentin level underneath the outer surface of the tooth. If standard treatments are used, dentists have to detect (if they can) and treat these cavities very early on while they’re still in hard outer enamel layer. If a cavity reaches the inner dentin layer, it grows much more rapidly, and if it is not dealt with and stopped, it will infect the pulp and begin to kill the tooth root. This is where micro-dentistry has stepped in to provide some amazing alternatives to treatments (such as root canals or even tooth extractions) that would cost people a great deal of pain and money.
Micro-dentistry begins with the applications of a red or green dye that stains the teeth and reveals areas of decay. The dentist then uses air abrasion to gently clean the pits in dental enamel and to expand the narrow grooves in teeth so that we can better test the surface for the presence of any decay. By using much smaller instruments than those employed in regular dentistry, we can then repair the damaged tooth surface with a dental bonding compound or sealant
One big advantage offered by Micro-dentistry is its ability to remove only the smallest possible amount of tooth structure and when removing tooth decay. It is also a painless procedure that should require no anesthetic.Labels: air abrasion, cavities, dental dyes, fluoride, micro-dentistry, tooth decay, tooth enamel
Can Mouth Appliances Be Used With Dentures?
Can a mouth appliance be used for a person that wears dentures? I was always told to remove my denture when sleeping. Thank you
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Thanks for the questions – yes, we have always told denture wearers to take their dentures out at night, and this is still logical. Giving the tissue a rest overnight is good.
However, there are situations in which it is better to wear the dentures:
1. Pain in jaw when dentures are out – wearing the dentures gives more support to the jaw and is more comfortable
2. Obstructive sleep apnea – with certain sleep disorders, using appliances for jaw positioning can help the problem
3. Patients that have some remaining teeth or implants in place to stabilize dentures can sometimes grind on those and create wear and tear problems. In these situations, it is better to wear the overdentures to protect the teeth or implants from excessive wear.
So, as in life, there are no hard and fast rules. It depends on your personal situation and need. Let me know if you want any more information.
Chuck Campbell, DDS
713-795-5905 Labels: dentures, sleep apnea dental device, sleep apnea oral appliance
Dental digital radiography gives you many benefits that you do not get from typical film X-rays. This is a computer-driven system that is far more sophisticated in its ability to detect dental conditions. Also, known as digital dental X-rays, it is one of our favored methods of examining patient teeth in close detail.
The dental digital radiography system uses a mobile sensor placed in your mouth to capture images of your teeth. It then transmits them the screen of a high-resolution monitor. Here, you can witness live, close-up video while your dentist is examining your teeth. You do not have to wait for film to develop in the lab, because everything is seen, live, as it happens. Your dentist can pause along the way and explain to you any problems discovered, and recommend possible treatments.
These images look like standard X-rays, but they are much, much larger. Because the system itself is computerized, the dentist can operate it just like any standard computer interface. By clicking on a mouse, the dentist can enlarge it as much as 400 times. A single tooth can be looked at the finest detail, its image rotated, sharpened, and colorized. These pictures can be downloaded, printed, and taken home if you need time to make a decision about two or more recommended treatment options.
The dental digital radiography system uses a very small sensor, flat sensor in the mouth connected to the computer by a thin wire. The machine will transmit an X-ray beam directly through the teeth into the sensor. It then records the image of your teeth, and it feeds it back to the computer. The remote system can be moved anywhere in your mouth to take fine-resolution pictures at will.
Dental digital radiography is a great way to save time. Office visits are much shorter because there are no X-rays to develop. Busy professionals can get more accomplished in less time when they come to our office for digital dental X-rays. This system is also better for your health, because it uses 90 percent fewer X-rays than standard film methods. Radiography also offers an environmental benefit to, because it produces no toxic by-products.Labels: digital dental radiography, digital dental X-rays
Digital Dental X-Rays
Digital dental X-rays allow dentists to more accurately diagnose tooth problems than the film x-rays traditionally used in the past. Digital dental X-rays are taken with a radiography system that captures an image of your teeth and sends it to a full-color computer monitor. This gives you the ability to see a live, close-up video feed of your own teeth. Your dentist can examine your mouth very carefully and point out findings as he or she goes along. There is never any need to wait for images to develop, and the procedure can be completed in one session in the dental chair.
Digital dental X-rays look very much like standard X-rays, but they are 400 percent bigger. Digital radiography is computer controlled, so the dentist is able to operate the system by moving and clicking on a mouse. A single tooth can be enlarged, and its image rotated, sharpened, and colorized. The dentist can even print out these color images so you can take them home to consider treatment options for your condition.
To dentist uses a small, flat sensor in your mouth to take digital dental X-rays. This sensor is connected to the computer through a thin wire. An X-ray beam is sent through your teeth into the sensor, which then records an image of your teeth and feeds it back to the computer. Because the sensor can be easily moved, the dentist can position it anywhere in your mouth to take fine-resolution images of your teeth.
Digital dental X-rays take much less time than standard X-rays because there is no need to develop film. They are also much safer for you because he the digital system uses only 10 percent as many X-rays as film requires. This means you are exposed to far less radiation when you come into our office for digital radiography, and this added health benefit is another plus added to the excellent diagnostic capabilities of the system and the time-saving factor that it represents to busy professionals on the move
The super-large images that can then be colorized and printed are additional advantages to using radiography. Digital dental X-rays let you see what the dentist sees so you can better make decisions and participate in your own dental care proactively. You do not have to pay for the cost of photography when you use this service, either. Everything is computerized, and there is are no toxic biohazards or wastes created by radiography.Labels: dental x-rays, digital dental radiography, digital dental X-rays, x-rays
Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic Dentists are general dentistry experts who extend that expertise into aesthetics. Cosmetic dentistry is not a separate from general dentistry, but is a grouping of sub-sciences within it. Our dental professionals have years of experience and continuing education in both health and wellness services and full mouth restorative services.
Implants
Implants rank among the most important forms of general dentistry. Implants involve the use of crowns, but they are much more than crowns. An implant is an artificial titanium tooth root implanted in the jawbone itself. A porcelain crown placed over the tooth appears identical to surrounding natural teeth and provides a stable, hard, reliable chewing surface that will not chip or break while you are eating normal food.
Laser Periodontal Treatment (LANAP)
LANAP is periodontal surgery (surgery on the gums) that uses a special laser to replace the metal cutting tools traditionally used in general dentistry. You will experience the same benefits as the standard surgical methods, but with much bleeding pain. Recovery time from LANAP is also much quicker.
Sleep Apnea Management
Obstructive sleep apnea is very serious and can cause anything from restlessness to chronic fatigue the following day. Sleep apnea is normally treated with CPAP therapy, which uses a machine to keep air passages open while the patient sleeps. Many people try CPAP and give it up on the basis that it causes them too much discomfort or awareness. This is where general dentistry, surprisingly, can actually step in and provide alternatives.
The FDA has approved a number of sleep apnea oral appliances. These devices are like mouth guards, only much more sophisticated. The dentist has to select the type that is best for your mouth, and in most cases, further customize the model to your particular teeth and bite.
When correctly manufactured and fitted, dental appliances have proven to be equally effective to CPAP in treating all but the most severe forms of sleep apnea.
Fillings
Using fillings to repair cavities in teeth is common in both general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. The difference lies in the nature of the fillings themselves. In general practices, amalgam fillings have historically been used that are made by mixing silver and mercury. They are not the healthiest things to have in your mouth, and they will often fall out after several years and require replacement.
We prefer to use composite dental resin instead of silver-mercury fillings. Composite resin is customized to look like the color of your natural teeth and is made from bio-friendly resin. It is healthier and last longer than other types of fillings, and it creates a much better cosmetic appearance.
We use porcelain inlays and onlays to fill teeth when the area that needs to be covered is more than 40%-50% of the biting area.
Crowns
Before the development of titanium dental implants, crowns were used to cover teeth that could not be repaired by fillings. Crowns were made of gold and were often known as “caps.” Crowns are now mostly made from porcelain, which is used equally in both general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry to cover teeth that have been severely cracked, chipped, or fractured.
IV Sedation
General dentistry practices might involve working on the teeth in a way that the patient finds uncomfortable. IV sedation delivers anesthetics to the body so the patient will feel no pain during the procedure. Lucidity is maintained in a very relaxed state, but is monitored by an anesthesiologist.
We would like to point out that in many cases the general and the cosmetic can go hand in hand to create a win-win situation for both health and physical appearance.Labels: cosmetic dental crowns, cosmetic dentistry, general dentistry, houston dental office, houston general dentistry
Our Mission
Every member of our Houston dental office staff is devoted to patient health and wellness. Everyone seeks to ensure the highest level of professional care for patients who walk. We feel it is mandatory to earn the respect and confidence of every patient through the services we provide.
Our Philosophy
We have committed ourselves to lifetimes of continuing education in dental science. This helps us maintain the forward motion of our proactive stance toward preventative dentistry. We believe that ongoing pursuit of the latest dental treatments combined with an aggressive health and hygiene programs, are the essential to dental health..
New Patient Policy and Procedures
Every day, we see new patients come into our Houston dental office daily. We recommend to every one of theme that that they begin their relationship with our care professionals with a comprehensive dental examination. This examination normally consists of the following:
· Medical history and dental history review
· Radiography examination
· Visual examination
· Photographic series
· Oral cancer screening
· Periodontal exam
After these examinations, dentists take great time to share their findings with patients and go over treatment options. Not only do we offer cosmetic dentistry, but we also offer all forms of general dentistry. Many insurance plans cover the majority of our services. However, some of our more advanced cosmetic procedures may not be covered under the typical corporate dental benefits plan. In these instances, we have a number of financial services plans that allow a person to work out payment options without having to depend on insurance.
Office Hours and Appointment Policy
Our Houston dental office is open every Monday through Thursday 7 AM to 4 PM. For dental emergencies, we do have an answering service that will page the dentist. We ask if you make an appointment with us, that you treat it with the same the same high respect that our professionals do. We know how busy Houston work schedules can be, but we also very busy as well. We respectfully ask that you give us the courtesy of a 24-hour notice should you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment.
Dental Fees
The general and cosmetic dental services that Houston dental office offers represent the highest level of dental care, applied technology, and new sciences. Time, treatment option, ability, education, and professional experience all factor into determining our fees. Many services are more affordable than others. However, it is our policy to never tack on fees after the fact. We explain every treatment option up front, quote exactly how much it will cost, and explain why. This allows our patients to make better informed decisions about which options are best for them at what times. It also serves as a guideline for obtaining certain dental financial services throughout many assistance programs. Labels: cosmetic dentists Houston, houston dental office, houston general dentistry
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