I am told by my dentist I am grinding my teeth. And what is Bruxism?
Tooth clenching and grinding is what dentists call bruxism. It is much more common that most patients would believe. In today’s stress-filled world, many people suffer from the effects of this habit.
It may be stress induced or it may be a result of an imbalanced occlusion (teeth that do not line up properly.)
Your dentist can slow down the wear and damage done by bruxism by constructing a custom fit night guard. This would be desirable over a store brand guard as these may contribute to worse grinding if not fitted properly.
I would like to have my teeth whitened, what do you recommend?
Although there are numerous over-the-counter products available to whiten one’s smile today, most only work for the short term.
If your goal is to look whiter IMMEDIATELY, we have an alternative that outperforms the over the counter products. “Tres White Supreme” is a new pre-filled disposable whitening tray product that STAYS where you want it, is comfortable, affordable, and predictable. Both 10% and 15% concentrations are available.
If you want LONG LASTING results, we offer Custom Whitening Take Home Trays with three different concentrations of whitening gel. After impressions of your teeth are made, a clear comfortable thin appliance is constructed. We provide detailed instructions for all of our whitening patients and are always available to answer questions.
We also offer a Complimentary Whitening Evaluation to help our patients determine what would be best for their individual needs
What are implants?
Dental implants are artificial root forms made of titanium and surgically placed in the jawbone. After a period of 4-6 months, the implant becomes integrated within the bone permanently.
Implants are as an excellent means of anchoring dental prosthetics such as crowns, bridges, partials, or dentures.
Do whitening toothpastes work?
Commercial whitening toothpastes vary greatly in their ability to whiten teeth. They work by removing surface stains from the teeth with the use of mild abrasives. However, unlike professional whitening, some whitening toothpastes do not alter the intrinsic color of the teeth. Toothpastes that are effective in removing stains can also destroy tooth enamel in the process. These toothpastes contain additives which can also be harsh abrasives. With repeated use, they can begin to damage tooth enamel and can contribute to increased tooth sensitivity. If you would like to try a whitening toothpaste, consult with your dentist first.
Why does the dentist take X-rays?
Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when your dentist examines your mouth. An X-ray examination may reveal:
- Small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations (fillings)
- Infections in the bone
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Abscesses or cysts
- Developmental abnormalities
- Some types of tumors
Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save time, money and often unnecessary discomfort. Dental radiographs can detect damage to oral structures not visible during a regular exam. If you have a hidden tumor, radiographs may even help save your life. Your dentist will evaluate your need for radiographs based on the conditions present in your mouth. The schedule for radiographs can vary with age, risk for disease or for evaluation of growth and development. There are many benefits to having dental radiographs taken. Any additional questions or concerns should be discussed with your dentist.
I knocked out a tooth, can it be saved?
Traumatic oral injuries are often painful, and should be treated by a dentist as soon as possible.
- Attempt to find the tooth.
- Rinse, do not scrub, the tooth to remove dirt or debris.
- Place the clean tooth in your mouth between your cheek and gum or under your tongue
- Do not attempt to replace the tooth into the socket as this could cause further damage.
- Get to the dentist immediately. Successful re-implantation is possible only when treatment is performed promptly
If it is not possible to store the tooth in the mouth of the injured person, gently wrap the tooth in a clean cloth or gauze and immerse it in milk.
What can I do about sensitive teeth?
Sensitivity toothpaste, which contains strontium chloride or potassium nitrate are very effective in treating sensitive teeth. After a few weeks of use you may notice a decrease in sensitivity. Highly acidic foods such as oranges, grapefruits and lemons, as well as tea and soda can increase tooth sensitivity, and work against any sensitivity toothpaste. If you do not get relief by brushing gently and using a desensitizing toothpaste, see your dentist. There are special compounds that can be applied in office to the roots of your tooth to reduce—if not eliminate—the sensitivity. High-fluoride containing home care products can also be recommended to help reduce tooth sensitivity.
I am undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation for cancer treatment, how can this affect my mouth?
Chemotherapy and Radiation can cause a number of problems in the mouth, some of which might include: mouth sores, infections, dry mouth, bleeding of the gums and lining of the mouth and general soreness and pain of the mouth. It can be harder to control these things while undergoing treatment as the immune system is generally compromised as a result of the treatment. There are some special mouth products (e.g., Periosciences AO gel) that can be prescribed to help with discomfort during treatment. It is very important to see your Dentist before treatment begins and then to continue with recommended follow-up care. These treatments can cause dry mouth, which leads to a faster rate of decay, and recommendations might be made for additional care both in-office and at home.
I have dentures. Is it still necessary for me to see my dentist?
Visits to the Dentist include more than just “checking teeth”. While those patients who wear dentures no longer have to worry about dental decay, they may have concerns with ill-fitting appliances or mouth sores to name a few. Annual visits to the Dentist (or sooner if soreness is present) is recommended. During these visits an oral cancer screening and head and neck exam will be performed as well as an evaluation of the fit or need for reline or replacement of the existing appliances. Regular visits can help you to avoid more complicated problems down the road even with a denture.
