May

30

Dental Mouth Guards

May 30, 2010 | Leave a Comment

Have you woken up with sore jaws, tense or tired muscles?  If so you may need  a mouth guard.  Bruxism or more commonly called grinding is excess wear on our teeth. As stress increases and anxiety heightens our bodies release this energy. It may even be caused by intense concentration. Young children often show signs of bruxism but generally it goes away.

Symptoms of bruxism often include loud sounds and worn teeth which often leads to increased sensitivity. Jaw pain (TMJ), clicking, earache and headache. Chewing of the cheek, sore or tense muscles. All may be signs of bruxism.

There are different types of mouth guards, so it is important to consult your dentist to be sure you choose the correct type. Athletic guards are worn for sports and will protect both upper and lower teeth. A soft mouth guard, which may be made to fit the upper or lower jaw. They are flexible. A hard mouth guard, may also be made to fit the upper or lower jaw and are more rigid. For those who cannot tolerate the fullness in their mouths there may be another solution. NTI is a smaller guard and fits the lower teeth in the anterior region.

If you suspect you are suffering from bruxism, consult your dental professional.

Mar

25

A patient, Sharon, shares her experience in having a Root Canal Done

March 25, 2010 | Leave a Comment

Mar

25

Gordon talks about having a Crown Replaced

March 25, 2010 | Leave a Comment

Mar

25

A patient talks about her experience in having Dental Implants done

March 25, 2010 | Leave a Comment

Feb

17

Dental Implants

February 17, 2010 | Leave a Comment

Dental implants have become a hot topic among the general public.  However, are they right for you?  These are a few suggestions to discuss with your dentist at your consultation.

1. Will your bone support an implant?  If not, usually bone fillers can be used.  However, this is up to the surgeon.

2. Do you have gum problems that may reduce the chance of a good result? No matter how wonderful the implant, if your gums are in poor shape eventually the metal will show.  Cosmetically, the front is most peoples concern.

3. Keep in mind xrays are involved.  Most surgeons require an MRI or panorex.  This is really necessary, as they need to see below the bone for stability and nerve proximity.

4. Time.  After an implant is placed it is 4-6 months before it is uncovered.  Then your dentist may restore the area.  Allow 2-3 weeks before the crowns are cemented.  This is only a guess as every case is different.

5. Cost.  The average implant is $4,000-$5,000.  Part will be to the surgeon and the other to your dentist.  Again, every case is unique.  Ask for an approximation.

6. Some insurance companies cover all or part.  Have your dental professional check for you.

7. If a tooth is missing in the front you may wish to fill the space while you are healing.  This may or may not have an additional charge.

Lastly, these are only some of the questions to think about before you see your dentist.  It will get the ball rolling.  Many more questions will arise, but bottom line; feel comfortable with your dentist so you can ask the questions.

Feb

17

Your Child’s First Dental Visit

February 17, 2010 | Leave a Comment

The first dental visit may be the most important.  This will shape their minds and form opinions that will last forever.  Most people with dental fear will reveal they had some kind of trauma when they were young.  The goal is to make this visit as pleasant as possible.

Whether you choose a pedodontist (children’s dentist) or a family practice general dentist depends on your child.  Each parent knows his or her child’s personality best.  If in doubt talk to the dentist prior to the visit.

Most children visit the dentist around three years of age.  I would suggest that your child go to a couple of visits with you, that way they are prepared and familiar.  If they see you having a cleaning it will encourage them.

A gift from the toy chest certainly doesn’t hurt.  Remember, positive reinforcement.

Feb

17

Dental Phobia

February 17, 2010 | Leave a Comment

“Why are so many people afraid of the dentist?”  Quite frankly, I don’t know.  As for myself I have no fear.  Then again, I am the one holding the drill.  However, I do have some theories and suggestions.

As a patient you should think about why you have fear.  Was there an event in the dental chair that lead to this emotion?  Did you feel pain and your dentist did not believe you?  Was there improper language or overt advances cast upon you?  Did you feel as though you did not know what was going on before the treatment was started?  Furthermore, was the cost of the treatment not discussed in detail?  Any of the above would scare me.

So here are some small suggestions to overcome these obstacles.  Everyone gets a clean slate, patients and yes the dentist too.  Seek a professional that suits your needs.  It may include gender, education, personality, kindness and compassion.  Discuss options and choices of treatment, including cost.  Ask to see things in a mirror so everyone is on the same page.  However, do not ask to see the whole procedure as someone usually gets hit in the head and that someone is usually me.  If something happened in your past that is sensitive, talk to the dentist before the treatment so  you will be comfortable.  Remember, there are several methods to help you relax.

Finding these kind, compassionate dentists is not as difficult as it may seem.  Ask your friends and co-workers.  First hand knowledge is always the best.  Your local dental society can offer useful information.  Of course, one strike of the keyboard will offer you many choices of blogs and chats.