Smiles of Memorial News

5 Reasons Why Regular Dental Cleaning & Exams Is Important

January 24, 2023

Regular dental cleanings and exams are essential for maintaining your oral health. Not only do they help ensure that your teeth stay healthy, but regular dental checkups can also detect any potential issues before they become serious.

Benefits of Regular Dental Cleanings and Exams

Here are four benefits why regular dental cleanings and exams are so important.

1. Early Detection of Oral Health Issues

During a routine exam, your dentist can identify potential issues with your teeth or gums. This includes everything from cavities to signs of gum disease. Early detection is key when it comes to preventing these issues from becoming more serious down the line. For example, if a cavity isn’t detected until it has reached an advanced stage, the tooth may need to be extracted rather than just filled.

2. Preventing Tooth Decay

Regular brushing and flossing are essential for keeping plaque at bay, but even the most diligent brushers can miss bits of food and plaque between their teeth. During a cleaning, your hygienist will use specialized tools to remove this debris and reduce your risk of developing cavities and other forms of tooth decay.

3. Maintaining Overall Health

Oral health is closely linked to overall health; studies have found that people with poor oral hygiene have a higher risk of developing certain diseases, such as diabetes or heart disease. By getting regular check-ups, you can reduce the risk of these illnesses by ensuring that any underlying oral infections or diseases don’t go untreated for too long.

4. Protecting Your Smile

A beautiful smile is one of the best accessories you can wear! Regular cleanings will help keep your teeth looking their best for years by removing surface stains, tartar build-up, and plaque deposits that can discolor or damage enamel over time. Regular check-ups allow you to discuss cosmetic concerns with your dentist and learn about potential solutions like whitening treatments or veneers.

Final Words

With all the benefits of regular dental cleanings and exams, there’s no reason not to make them part of your annual wellness routine! Not only do they help maintain good oral health, but they could also save you from expensive emergency procedures down the line—so don’t wait until it’s too late! Schedule an appointment with your local dentist today!

FAQs:

Q. Why do I need regular dental cleanings and exams?

Answer: Regular dental cleanings and exams are the cornerstones of preventive oral health care. They can help to detect and prevent oral health problems before they start or become more severe. During a cleaning, a dentist or hygienist will remove plaque and tartar, which are hardened deposits of bacteria that cause gum disease, cavities, and other serious issues. Additionally, during a comprehensive exam, your dentist will be on the lookout for any signs of decay or other irregularities as well as check for signs of oral cancer. In general, it is best to have a dental checkup every six months in order to keep your teeth healthy and strong and avoid costly treatments down the line.

Q. How long does a regular dental cleaning take?

Answer: Depending on what type of cleaning you receive and how often you go for appointments, the length of time spent in the chair can vary. A standard prophylactic cleaning usually takes about 45 minutes, while a periodontal cleaning can typically last up to an hour or more. During the procedure, all visible plaque will be removed from your teeth with special instruments as well as thorough flossing and polishing. X-rays may also be taken if needed in order to look further into any potential issues.

Q. What should I expect after getting a regular dental cleaning?

Answer: After receiving a regular dental cleaning, it is normal to experience some temporary sensitivity in your mouth due to the removal of plaque and tartar build-up that could have been present for some time. This sensitivity should improve shortly afterward once your teeth get accustomed to being cleaned thoroughly again. You may also have an increased desire to brush more often, which is beneficial because it helps you maintain optimal oral hygiene between visits to your dentist’s office. It is also important not to forget about scheduling your next appointment in order for your teeth to stay healthy between visits!

What Do Dentists Do When You Have a Cracked Tooth?

January 22, 2023

Have you ever had a cracked tooth? A cracked tooth can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, but don’t worry! Your dentist is here to help. This blog post will discuss the most common treatments for cracked teeth and why they are effective.

What is a Cracked Tooth?

A cracked tooth occurs when the outer layer of your tooth begins to break away due to pressure or trauma. The crack can range from small and barely visible to larger cracks that are very noticeable. Cracks can also be located on any part of the tooth, including the crown, root, or enamel. If left untreated, a cracked tooth can become infected and cause more serious dental issues.

Treating a Cracked Tooth

The first step in treating a cracked tooth is determining the extent of the damage. Depending on how large and deep the crack is, your dentist may recommend one of several treatment options. Options include dental bonding treatment, crowns or veneers, root canal therapy, or extraction.

Bonding involves using dental resin composite to fill in any gaps caused by cracks in your tooth. This option works best for minor chips or cracks on only one side of the tooth’s surface area. Crowns or veneers are used when there is significant damage to both sides of your tooth’s surface area. A dental crown is usually recommended if an infection is present, while veneers are best for cosmetic purposes only. Root canal therapy may be needed if the crack has gone beyond just affecting the outer layer of your teeth and into the pulp underneath it. Finally, if all other options have failed, extraction may be necessary to prevent further damage or infection from occurring in your mouth.

Conclusion:

Dental care professionals are experts at treating cracked teeth with minimally invasive procedures that will restore full strength and functionality to your teeth quickly and efficiently. If you think you might have a cracked tooth, contact your local dentist today so they can get you back to smiling confidently again!

FAQs:

Q. What Causes Cracked Teeth?

A: The most common cause of cracked teeth is trauma from biting down on something hard such as ice cubes or hard candy. Other possible causes include grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism), decay that weakens a portion of the tooth, making it more susceptible to cracking, age-related wear and tear on enamel causing thinning that makes it more prone to cracking, acid erosion caused by too many sugary beverages and acidic foods like citrus fruits which wear away enamel over time resulting in increased susceptibility to cracking, large fillings which reduce natural support for certain areas of teeth making them more prone to fracturing under pressure from normal use such as chewing food items.

Q. How Can I Prevent Cracked Teeth?

A: There are several steps you can take to prevent cracked teeth, including avoiding habits such as chewing on hard objects like ice cubes and pen caps; visiting your dentist regularly for checkups so they can identify any issue before it becomes worse; using an appropriate technique while brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled brush; avoiding excessive consumption of sugary beverages and acidic foods (especially without brushing afterward); wearing mouth guards while playing sports; being aware of any grinding/clenching tendencies at night while sleeping; avoiding tobacco use; treating cavities quickly before they weaken surrounding areas of your teeth making them prone to cracking due to decreased structural integrity; if you have large fillings replacing them with newer materials that offer greater support for your weakened areas.

Q. How Is A Cracked Tooth Diagnosed?

A: The diagnosis process for a cracked tooth typically begins with an initial consultation with your dentist, who will perform an oral exam looking for signs such as discoloration and listening for symptoms such as sharp pain when chewing or sensitivity towards hot and cold temperatures to diagnose this condition properly. Once diagnosed, further diagnostic tests may be performed involving X-rays allowing dentists to gain insight into exactly how much damage has been done by any existing cracks. Dentists may also utilize specialized tools such as dental probes, which allow them to look closely at any existing cracks within the affected area, confirming their presence before performing any treatment procedures.

Dental Crowns – Who Are the Ideal Candidates?

January 19, 2023

Dental crowns are a restorative option for people with decayed, cracked, or broken teeth. A dental crown is a prosthetic cap that fits over an existing tooth to protect it from further damage and restore its original shape and size. But who are the ideal candidates for dental crowns? Let’s dive in and find out more about them.

Types of Damage That Require A Dental Crown

The most common types of damage that require a dental crown include:

1. Decay

When teeth are severely decayed, often due to a cavity, they need to be restored with a dental crown. A filling cannot provide adequate protection against severe decay.

2. Fractured Teeth

Cracks and fractures can occur due to trauma, such as falls or accidents. If the fracture is severe enough, the tooth will need to be restored with a dental crown in order to prevent further damage and repair its original shape.

3. Discoloration

Teeth can become discolored over time due to genetics, aging, or lifestyle behaviors such as smoking or drinking coffee. In some cases, veneers may be used instead of a dental crown in order to mask discoloration. However, if the discoloration is severe enough, then a dental crown may be necessary in order to restore the tooth’s appearance.

4. Root Canal

After undergoing root canal therapy, the affected tooth must be protected with a crown in order to prevent further damage and restore its original shape and size.

Ideal Candidates for Dental Crowns

Ideally, candidates for dental crowns should have good oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once daily. Additionally, they should attend regular checkups with their dentist to address any potential issues before they become more serious problems requiring treatment with a dental crown. People who do not practice good oral hygiene habits are not typically considered ideal candidates for dental crowns because their risk of developing additional issues due to poor oral health is higher than those who regularly practice good oral hygiene habits.

Conclusion:

Dental crowns are an effective way to restore damaged teeth back to their original shape and size while also protecting them from further damage caused by decay or trauma. The ideal candidate for this type of restoration will have good oral hygiene habits along with regular visits to their dentist in order to address any potential issues before they become more serious problems requiring treatment with a dental crown. If you think you may benefit from getting a dental crown, contact your dentist today! They can assess your situation and help determine if it’s right for you!

FAQs:

Q. What is a Dental Crown?

Answer: A dental crown is an artificial tooth-shaped cap used to cover and restore a damaged tooth to its original shape, size, and function. It is cemented or bonded onto existing teeth and is designed to blend in with the patient’s natural teeth. A dental crown can also be used to improve the strength of a weakened or fractured tooth, protect it from further damage, and improve its appearance and overall aesthetic value.

Q. Are Dental Crowns Painful?

Answer: Generally speaking, having a dental crown placed should not cause any pain during or after the procedure itself due to local anesthesia used before treatment; any discomfort experienced afterward should be minimal and can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen if necessary. However, there may be some pressure felt during placement due to tightness caused by having your mouth open for long periods of time during treatment so you should advise your dentist if you experience any pain or discomfort at any time during your visit so they can address it accordingly.

Q. How Long Does it Take to Receive a Dental Crown?

Answer: The amount of time required for receiving a dental crown varies depending on the type of material being used for the restoration as well as any additional procedures that may be necessary beforehand (such as root canal therapy). Generally speaking, if no additional procedures are necessary beforehand then receiving your dental crown usually takes between two and three office visits over a period of two weeks; however, in some cases, it could take longer depending on the availability of materials and lab times.

How Does Smoking Affect Your Teeth and Mouth?

January 15, 2023

Smoking is a dangerous habit that can affect your overall health. The negative impacts of smoking on oral health, however, are often overlooked. The combination of chemicals in cigarettes and other tobacco products can cause irreversible damage to your teeth, gums, and mouth. Let’s take a look at how smoking affects your oral health.

Effects of Smoking On Teeth and Oral Health

Smoking can have a negative impact on your teeth and mouth in several ways. Whether you smoke regularly or are exposed to secondhand smoke, the chemicals and toxins found in cigarettes can cause damage to your oral health over time.

1. Staining and Discoloration

Smoking can cause your teeth to become significantly stained or discolored over time. This occurs because the nicotine and tar in cigarettes coat the surfaces of the teeth, resulting in brown or yellow stains that cannot be removed with normal brushing or flossing. The more frequently you smoke, your teeth will likely become stained or discolored.

2. Increased Risk of Gum Disease

People who smoke are much more likely to develop gum disease than non-smokers. Tobacco smoke irritates the gums and damages their ability to fight bacteria effectively. This makes smokers especially prone to developing periodontitis (advanced gum disease) and other serious gum infections, such as gingivitis. Additionally, smokers are less likely to respond well to treatment for gum disease due to their impaired immune system from smoking.

3. Oral Cancer

Smoking increases the risk of developing several types of cancer – including cancers of the mouth and throat, which affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard palate, and sinuses behind the nose. Smoking also contributes to bad breath (halitosis), dry mouth (xerostomia), tooth loss, receding gums, and an increased risk for leukoplakia – white patches inside the mouth caused by irritation from cigarette smoke.

Conclusion:

The adverse effects of smoking on oral health cannot be understated; it is one of the most destructive habits you can have when protecting your teeth and gums from decay and disease. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for yourself if you want to protect your oral health—not just now but also in years when you may need extensive treatments for gum diseases or oral cancer. If you’re a smoker looking for help quitting this habit, consider reaching out to a doctor or specialist who can advise quitting safely without risking further damage to your teeth and gums.

FAQs:

Q. How does smoking affect your teeth and mouth?

A. Smoking can have several negative effects on your teeth and mouth, including yellowing of the teeth, increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay, dry mouth, bad breath, and an increased risk for oral cancer.

Q. What can I do to protect my teeth and mouth from the effects of smoking?

A: You can do various things to protect your teeth and mouth from the negative impacts of smoking. These include using high-quality fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash every day, maintaining good oral health habits like brushing and flossing regularly, and quitting smoking or reducing how often you smoke. Additionally, you may want to consider consulting with your dentist about other strategies for keeping your teeth and mouth healthy.

Q. How can I quit smoking if I am struggling with this habit?

A: If you are trying to quit smoking and find it difficult, there are several strategies that you can try, including using quitting aids like nicotine patches or gum, seeking out support from friends and family members, practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness meditation, and enrolling in smoking cessation programs or therapies. Ultimately, the key is to find what works best for you so that you can successfully kick your smoking habit for good!”

When Is Tooth Extraction Required?

January 9, 2023

No one likes to think about having a tooth extraction, but sometimes it is necessary. Tooth extractions are not recommended unless necessary, and a qualified dentist should only perform them. This blog will explore the situations in which a dentist may advise for tooth extraction and what to expect during the procedure.

Reasons for Extractions

There are many reasons why your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction treatment. These reasons include damage from trauma, decay beyond repair, infection, crowding from wisdom teeth, braces, or other orthodontic appliances, and pre-surgical preparation for other procedures.

To determine whether tooth extraction is the right solution, it’s important to consult a dentist and discuss your individual case in detail. The dentist will evaluate your oral health and review any symptoms you may be experiencing as well as any concerns you have about tooth removal. They may also perform X-rays or other diagnostic tests to help determine causing your tooth issues and recommend the best course of action in the future.

The Procedure

Before any procedure begins, your dentist will take an X-ray of the affected area to determine the best course of action. Once the X-ray is complete, the extraction process can begin. Your dentist will first administer local anesthesia so that you do not feel any pain during the procedure. Depending on the extraction’s complexity, your dentist may use forceps or another instrument to remove the tooth. After all pieces have been removed, and any remaining debris has been cleared away, gauze will be placed over the area to stop bleeding and promote clotting. It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions regarding aftercare in order to ensure that you heal properly after having a tooth extracted.

Recovery From Extraction

After having a tooth extracted, it is normal to experience some swelling and soreness around the area where your tooth was removed, as well as some minor bleeding; however, if these symptoms persist longer than expected or become more severe, it is essential to contact your doctor right away as this could be an indication of infection or other complications related to healing from an extraction procedure. Additionally, if you experience any dizziness or nausea after extraction, it is important that you seek medical attention immediately.

Conclusion:

Tooth extractions are never taken lightly by dentists; they are only recommended when necessary as part of treatment or prevention plans for dental health issues such as infection or overcrowding caused by wisdom teeth growth. If you have concerns about whether you need a tooth extraction, then speak with your dentist – they’ll be able to assess your situation and advise on whether an extraction would be beneficial for you in terms of improving overall oral health.

FAQs:

Q. What is a tooth extraction?

Answer: A tooth extraction is a simple dental procedure in which a tooth or multiple teeth are removed from the mouth. This may be done for various reasons, such as to remove a damaged or decayed tooth, to prepare the mouth for orthodontic treatment, to make room for other teeth to realign, or to correct an overcrowding issue. During the procedure, an oral surgeon will first numb the area around the affected tooth with local anesthesia and then use specialized instruments to gently loosen and remove it from its socket in the jaw.

Q. What are the risks associated with tooth extractions?

Answer: While generally safe when performed by an experienced professional, there can be potential risks associated with tooth extractions. These include pain and discomfort during and after surgery, infection of the wound site, dry socket (which is a condition caused by exposed bone in the jaw due to inadequate healing), nerve damage resulting in numbness or tingling sensations in your gums and/or lips, and excessive bleeding. Therefore it’s important that you follow all pre-operative instructions carefully and use any medications prescribed by your dentist after surgery.

Q. How long does it take for a tooth extraction to heal?

Answer: The actual healing process following a tooth extraction usually takes anywhere from one week up to several weeks, depending on various factors, including age, the health condition of the patient, and the complexity of the surgery. It is normal for some minor bleeding and swelling post-operatively; however, if these symptoms persist or worsen over time, you must consult your oral surgeon as soon as possible. Patients should generally abstain from strenuous physical activity for at least 72 hours after their procedure; however, your oral surgeon may advise you differently based on individual circumstances. Additionally, smoking should be avoided during recovery time since this can greatly impair healing times.

5 Treatment Options for Bleeding Gums

January 3, 2023

It is important to seek treatment immediately at the first sign of bleeding gums. Several treatment options are available, from more conservative methods like changes in diet and oral hygiene habits to more advanced treatments like surgical procedures or antibiotic therapies.

5 Ways to Stop Bleeding Gums

Some of the most common treatment options for bleeding gums include:

Way 1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications

Changing your diet and incorporating regular exercise into your routine can help promote healthy blood flow throughout your body, including your gums. This can help prevent gum disease and reduce inflammation in the gums.

Way 2. Occlusal Adjustments

An uneven or incorrect bite alignment that causes excess pressure on certain areas of your teeth can also contribute to bleeding gums. An occlusal adjustment, or bite treatment, can help to reduce this pressure and prevent further damage to your oral health.

Way 3. Oral Hygiene Treatments

Brushing and flossing regularly is essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy and free from plaque buildup that may lead to gum disease. To get the most out of your oral hygiene routine, consider using products like mouthwashes or fluoride treatments that can provide added benefits for reducing inflammation in the gums and preventing infection.

Way 4. Surgical Procedures

In severe cases where treatment methods like dietary changes and oral hygiene cannot effectively address bleeding gums, surgical procedures may be recommended as a last resort. Procedures like laser gum surgery or tissue grafting can help to repair damaged tissue and improve the overall health of your gums.

Way 5. Antibiotic Therapies

In some cases, treatment for bleeding gums may also involve antibiotics. This is most commonly recommended for gum disease individuals at a higher risk of developing other infections or complications due to their compromised immune system. Talk to a dentist near your location about whether antibiotic therapy may be right for you.

Final Words

While many treatment options are available for bleeding gums, it is important to work with your dentist or doctor to find the best option that fits your individual needs and preferences. Whether making small changes in your diet and lifestyle habits, undergoing oral hygiene treatments like scaling and root planing, or opting for more advanced treatment options like surgical procedures or antibiotic therapies, there are many ways to manage bleeding gums and improve your overall oral health. So if you notice any signs of bleeding gums, seek treatment immediately and work with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment option for you.

FAQs:

Q. What are the causes of bleeding gums?

A: A variety of issues can cause bleeding gums.
1. Plaque and calculus buildup,
2. Medical conditions such as diabetes or scurvy,
3. Vitamin C deficiency, hard brushing with worn-out bristles or incorrect brushing habits,
4. Ill-fitting dentures and mouth ulcers may contribute to this problem,
5. Even hormonal changes due to pregnancy or menstruation!

Q. Is it normal for gums to bleed while flossing?

A: No, healthy gums don’t need to bleed. Plaque build-up causes the gum tissue around your teeth to become inflamed and irritated, so if you floss regularly, you can help reduce this irritating plaque before it becomes an issue!

Q. How can bleeding gums be cured?

A: To ensure healthy gums and strong teeth, avoid plaque build-up. Incorporate good oral hygiene habits into your lifestyle, don’t smoke if possible, take time for self-care to reduce stress levels, and get enough essential vitamins such as C and K.

Q. How are bleeding gums related to high blood pressure?

A: Patients using medications to regulate their BP should be aware that they could increase the risk of bleeding gums while brushing or eating chewy foods. Medications like aspirin and Coumadin are especially likely to cause this side effect, so extra oral care is recommended for those taking these drugs.

How To Care For Dental Sealants Through Christmas & New Year?

December 22, 2022

The holidays are a time of joy and celebration, but taking care of your dental sealants this season can be tricky. Between Christmas parties and New Year’s celebrations (in addition to all the yummy treats that come with them), it can sometimes be difficult to remember the helpful habits you’ve learned to keep your teeth healthy and strong! But do not worry – with a few steps and tips, you can easily protect the condition of your dental sealants throughout the festive period. In this blog post, we’ll go into some practical advice on how best to preserve and maintain both short-term and long-term oral health during one of the year’s busiest times.

10 Tips To Take Care Of Your Dental Sealants Through The Festive Season

The best dentist in Houston has provided the most effective tips to take care of your dental sealants this festive season.

Tip 1. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

Make sure to brush twice a day for two minutes. It is advisable to use fluoride toothpaste. Brushing regularly helps keep bacteria away from the sealant and keeps it safe from any damage or deterioration.

Tip 2. Flossing should be Included in Your Daily Regime

Flossing should also be part of your regular routine. At least once a day is considered ideal. Flossing your teeth helps remove plaque before it can build up underneath the sealant and cause it to break down over time.

Tip 3. Certain Food Items should be Avoided

Avoid eating sticky foods, such as gummy candies and caramels, which can pull at the sealant and cause it to come off prematurely.

Tip 4. You Should Limit the Intake of a Few Beverages

Limit sugary drinks like soda or juice that can increase plaque buildup on teeth around the sealant area. Drink plenty of water throughout the day instead.

Tip 5. Include Fruits and Vegetables in Your Daily Diet

Chew crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples or carrots in your daily diet. These food items will help clean off plaque near the dental sealant area without prematurely damaging or wearing them down.

Tip 6. Avoid Hard Objects

Try to avoid chewing hard objects like ice cubes or popcorn kernels which could chip away at the bond between tooth enamel and dental sealant material leading to premature failure of the restoration process.

Tip 7. Rinse with Mouthwash

Rinsing with mouthwash helps kill bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and cavities. So, make sure you rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash at least once a day during the holidays (and all year round). This will help keep your dental sealant in tip-top condition.

Tip 8. Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking plenty of water is essential for keeping your gums hydrated and healthy throughout Christmas & New Year. Plus, it will help wash away any leftover food particles from between teeth that could otherwise cause plaque buildup leading to cavities or other issues with your dental health down the line!

Tip 9. Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride is an essential mineral that helps strengthen enamel and protect against cavities. Make sure you use fluoride-containing toothpaste when brushing your teeth over the holidays (and all year round).

Tip 10. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

It’s always a good idea to see your dentist regularly for dental checkups and cleanings, even if you have dental sealants in place. This will help ensure that they remain in good condition throughout the year (and especially during the holiday season).

Final Words

Taking care of your oral health should be a top priority all year round, especially during special occasions such as Christmas & New Year, when there are often more sugary treats around than usual! Following these 10 simple tips will go a long way toward ensuring that your dental sealants remain intact throughout this festive period — happy holidays everyone!

Most Common Dental Problems Experienced by Elderly

November 23, 2022

The chances of suffering from dental problems increase with age. Seniors are more likely to experience specific dental problems and related issues than younger people. We have provided the common dental problems faced by the elderly in this blog.

4 Most Common Dental Issues For Seniors

Go through detailed information related to the four most common dental problems faced by seniors.

1. Tooth Decay

Tooth decay can be defined as the erosion of the enamel caused due to the bacteria present in the plaque. It can affect people of all ages but is more common in young individuals. But, tooth decay also happens in the case of the elderly as it is considered to be a significant reason behind people going for tooth extraction over the age of sixty-five.

If your dentist notices any signs of tooth decay, they will give you tips on how to maintain better oral hygiene and might suggest getting a filling to retain the tooth’s structure.

2. Gum Disease

Gum disease or periodontal problems can also happen due to the bacteria present in the plaque if it reaches the gums and leads to inflammation of the gum tissue. Sometimes teeth can become loose and fall out if periodontitis is allowed to develop.

According to the recent National Survey of Adult Oral Health, more than half (53.4%) of adults aged 65 and over have gum disease, putting seniors at a high risk of suffering from this condition. Elderly people are also more likely to develop gum disease, which can ultimately be the reason for tooth loss.

A proper oral hygiene routine can help treat gum disease in its early stages (gingivitis). But, you must consult your dentist about gum disease treatment if your gums are sore, itchy, or bleeding when you floss and brush.

3. Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is very common in the case of seniors. Your saliva is the first defense against tooth decay or cavities. So, you are more likely to develop cavities and decay when your saliva production is insufficient. A dry mouth can be caused due to intake of certain medications. Cancer treatments that utilize radiation on the neck and head area can also contribute to the chances of having a dry mouth.

This issue can be resolved by drinking an adequate amount of water on a daily basis. It stimulates your salivary glands to produce more saliva and helps prevent your mouth from drying.

4. Darkened Teeth

Years of ingesting foods and drinks that stain teeth cause a natural darkening of the teeth. Additionally, as we age, the enamel on our teeth ages, and the thinning enamel exposes the yellow dentin beneath. A tooth or teeth that have discolored occasionally may be a sign of a more serious underlying problem and need to be examined by your dentist.

Final Words

We hope you now clearly understand the common dental problems faced by the elderly. Just know that any sort of dental problem can be reversed and treated with the help of proper treatment. So, get in touch with a reliable dentist near you and easily ensure your overall dental health’s well-being.

At Smiles of Memorial Of Houston – Viet Tran DMD, we offer the best quality general and family dentistry services in Houston, TX. So, get in touch with us today if you are looking for premium dental care at an affordable price range.

What Happens If The Root Canal Treatment Was Left Incomplete?

October 31, 2022

Root canal treatment involves cleaning out a tooth’s pulp that has become inflamed or infected. It can save teeth and restore their functionality. Usually, the area is sealed once the root canal is completed to stop bacteria from re-entering. This helps to prevent any sort of infection and leaves your tooth intact. Dental crowns are used to protect the teeth underneath and enable you to use the tooth again.

Complications may arise if a patient has undergone a prior root canal, but the dentist did not finish the abovementioned steps. Pain around the treatment area is considered to be one of the primary signs that the root canal has not been completed correctly. It is advisable to consult a dentist as early as possible in such a situation. This blog will discuss what happens if a root canal is partially done.

What Can Happen If The Root Canal Treatment Is Not Completed?

The infected region is cleaned during a root canal treatment. If the treatment is not completed, the bacteria can enter the area and cause severe infection. The infection spreads to the other regions of the mouth or jawbone if the issue is not addressed on time. It can also lead to the development of abscesses which requires emergency care.

If you have swollen tissue or are experiencing pain near the tooth where the root canal was done, consult a dentist immediately. Patients can also feel tenderness or pain near the neck or jaw.

Potential Dangers If The Root Canal Treatment Is Left Unfinished

We have provided the potential dangers that can occur if the root canal treatment is not completed. Go through the pointers below to gather detailed information.

Infection – There may be risks associated with not finishing a root canal treatment based on how severe and harmful the bacteria are. Even minor conditions can become complicated if it is not addressed on time.
Swelling and pain – Pain and swelling in the gums are the common symptoms of an incomplete root canal treatment. The first and most obvious symptom of an inadequate root canal procedure is likely to be discomfort and gumline swelling. While tooth infections frequently occur in a tooth’s root and nerve tissue, the bacteria can penetrate into the gum line and cause severe swelling and redness.
Tooth loss – The teeth can become loose and ultimately fall out when the bone erodes. Even though the initial infection might only lead to the loss of a single tooth, it may result in further losses if it is not fully treated.

Root canal treatment is the most effective way to treat an infected tooth. An infection caused by incomplete root canal treatment can also be life-threatening. While people think that root canal treatment is excruciating, it can be a life-saving procedure if performed under the supervision of a trained and experienced dental professional.

Are You Looking For Root Canal Treatment?

Earlier, the only solution for teeth with infected and damaged roots used to be extraction. The advancements in the field of dentistry have made it possible for this problem to be solved with the help of root canal treatment. So, if you are suffering from issues related to having infected teeth, choosing root canal treatment can be a perfect pick.

We at Smiles Of Memorial offer the best quality root canal in houston, TX. Our dentist focuses on understanding the requirements of the patients and makes sure to handcraft the treatment plans accordingly. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment if you need root canal treatment.

What Is Considered as a Dental Emergency?

September 21, 2022

Dental emergencies can be stressful and dangerous for your oral health. Ignoring such problems for a long time can make you suffer long-term damage. They might also require complicated and expensive treatments. Dental issues like chipped or cracked teeth, toothaches, tooth loss, or discomfort from a crown may be considered severe conditions that necessitate a quick response. In this blog, we will discuss essential details related to dental emergencies. Go through the sections below to gain a better understanding of the topic.

What Is A Dental Emergency?

People often fail to understand that not every dental problem should be considered a dental emergency. Asking yourself a few simple questions can help determine if you are facing a dental emergency. They are:

Are you suffering from immense pain? This is a very prominent sign of a dental emergency.
Have you lost one or multiple teeth? Acting immediately can help to save the tooth.
Do you have loose teeth? You need to know that a loose tooth, even without pain, is a serious problem. It is not healthy for adults to have loose teeth.
Is there an infection? Since an abscess or significant oral infection can be fatal, treatment should not be delayed at any cost.
Are you bleeding from the mouth? Traces of bleeding is a sign of a dental emergency.

Any dental issue requiring urgent care to stop bleeding, lessen excruciating pain, or save a tooth is generally seen as an emergency. This also holds true for serious infections that pose a risk to life.

Dental Emergencies That Need Immediate Attention

Emergency dental care is required every time a tooth is harmed or dislodged from the gums. We have provided the four common dental emergencies when you should always seek immediate medical assistance.

1. Knocked-Out Tooth

A tooth that has been knocked out can be painful and must be treated immediately. It is always advisable not to touch the tooth’s root. Put the tooth in a glass of milk or water, apply a cold compress on your mouth, and head to a dentist offering emergency dental care as soon as you can.

2. Chipped Or Cracked Tooth

Although a crack or chip might appear to be not very serious, there can be hidden damage deeper in the tooth. Additionally, there can be damage to the adjacent teeth. Make an appointment with a dentist on the same day to determine what dental procedures are required to repair the tooth.

3. Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth is caused when a pus pocket forms at the root of a tooth. It can be a life-threatening situation due to the potential for the infection to spread to other body parts. This is a serious infection that requires an immediate visit to a dental office offering premium emergency care.

4. Orthodontic Emergencies

You can usually wait until the next available appointment to visit your orthodontist if a bracket is damaged or loose. However, you should visit your dentist immediately if the condition worsens and pieces of the orthodontic equipment start to cause open wounds, extensive bleeding, or serious irritation.

What Are Tips To Avoid Dental Emergencies?

Adopting a few measures can help avoid the chances of suffering from dental emergencies.

1. You Should Practice An Oral Hygiene Routine

Brushing and flossing regularly for the overall well-being of your teeth and gums is essential. Bacteria tend to accumulate quickly in food debris which can be the reason for gum disease or tooth decay. Infections can harm the gums and teeth and may necessitate a trip to the dental office offering emergency dental care.

2. Use A Mouthguard

Everyone can benefit from mouthguards, especially if you participate in sports. Mouth guards protect your teeth by absorbing hard impacts to the mouth. Mouthguards are recommended when engaging in contact sports and leisure activities where the likelihood of falling and taking a hard blow is higher.

3. Watch What You Eat

Most likely, you were taught as a child that candy, crackers, and starchy, sugary foods are terrible for your teeth. Drinks, including coffee, fruit juice, soda, and alcohol, should all be avoided or consumed in moderation. Sticky foods often get stuck between teeth and are challenging to remove. If you bite down on tough, crunchy foods too forcefully, it might harm your teeth and result in a dental emergency. Be careful to avoid any food that demands too much force for chewing.

4. Go For Routine Dental Checkups

You should visit your dentist at least twice yearly for professional cleaning sessions and dental exams. The dentist is trained to remove stubborn plaque deposits that cannot be cleaned by routine brushing. You risk suffering from cavities and gum disease if you don’t visit the dentist regularly. The dentist will perform preventive care during your appointment and carefully evaluate your oral cavity for any indications of dental problems.

We hope you now know what a dental emergency is and when to consult a dentist. Always remember that panicking during such a situation can make things worse. Try to calm your mind and visit a dentist near you as soon as possible.