Monday, October 7, 2013
Use It or Lose it!
Don’t let your hard earned money go down the drain by not using your insurance before the end of the year! Call us at 704-263-8845 to schedule your appointment today.
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Dentures & Partial Dentures
A denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and may even enhance your smile.
There are two types of dentures - complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A Partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting.
A Complete denture may be either “conventional” or “immediate.” A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking 4 to 6 weeks. During this time the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made.
Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years, but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.
Reasons for dentures:
- Complete Denture - Loss of all teeth in an arch.
- Partial Denture - Loss of several teeth in an arch.
- Enhancing smile and facial tissues.
- Improving chewing, speech, and digestion.
What does getting dentures involve?
The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually over several weeks. Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture. Several “try-in” appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit. At the final appointment, your dentist will precisely adjust and place the completed denture, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.
It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulty, however this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.
You will be given care instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new dentures.
Make Your Dental Appointment Online or call today at 1-704-263-8845
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Porcelain Fixed Bridges
Porcelain Fixed Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth.
There are several types of bridges. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case. The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. Porcelain fixed bridges are most popular because they resemble your natural teeth. This type of bridge consists to two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.
Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.
Reasons for a fixed bridge:
- Fill space of missing teeth.
- Maintain facial shape.
- Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
- Restore chewing and speaking ability.
- Restore your smile.
- Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance.
What does getting a fixed bridge involve?
Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment.
At the second visit, you permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time.
You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Mouth ulcers and oral cancer
It’s important to pay attention to what’s going on in your mouth. If you have an ulcer or sore spot in your mouth that won’t heal, you should call your dentist to get it looked at as soon as possible. Some mouth ulcers can be a sign of oral cancer – and oral cancer needs to be detected early so it can be treated.
If you have a sore or ulcer in your mouth that doesn’t go away on its own after 3 weeks, go see your dentist. Make sure to ask your dentist specifically about oral cancer – and if you’re not confident in your dentist’s ability to diagnose oral cancer, get a second opinion. If your dentist is concerned that the mouth ulcer may be a sign of oral cancer, you will need to get a biopsy of the affected area of your mouth.
I don’t mean to alarm anyone by writing this, but I can’t emphasize it enough: it is crucial to diagnose oral cancer in the early stages of the disease. If oral cancer is not caught early, it can lead to death. Oral cancer is one of the few types of cancer that have not had a decline in death rates during the past 20 years – it can be treated and cured, but if left undiagnosed it can be deadly.
Smokers, heavy drinkers and tobacco chewers are at the highest risk of getting oral cancer, but this type of cancer can occur in anyone. So be sure to pay attention to mouth ulcers when they happen – usually they’re nothing to worry about and will go away quickly, but if you have a bad mouth ulcer that has been around for awhile, it might be a sign of something much more serious.
Visit our Stanley, NC Dental Office
If you have a sore or ulcer in your mouth that doesn’t go away on its own after 3 weeks, go see your dentist. Make sure to ask your dentist specifically about oral cancer – and if you’re not confident in your dentist’s ability to diagnose oral cancer, get a second opinion. If your dentist is concerned that the mouth ulcer may be a sign of oral cancer, you will need to get a biopsy of the affected area of your mouth.
I don’t mean to alarm anyone by writing this, but I can’t emphasize it enough: it is crucial to diagnose oral cancer in the early stages of the disease. If oral cancer is not caught early, it can lead to death. Oral cancer is one of the few types of cancer that have not had a decline in death rates during the past 20 years – it can be treated and cured, but if left undiagnosed it can be deadly.
Smokers, heavy drinkers and tobacco chewers are at the highest risk of getting oral cancer, but this type of cancer can occur in anyone. So be sure to pay attention to mouth ulcers when they happen – usually they’re nothing to worry about and will go away quickly, but if you have a bad mouth ulcer that has been around for awhile, it might be a sign of something much more serious.
Visit our Stanley, NC Dental Office
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Teeth Staining Foods
Keep these items in mind when it comes to teeth stains. Sodas are not the only thing that can turn your teeth shades of yellow. Keep this following list in moderation with it comes to keeping your smile bright.
1. Coffee
2. Blueberries
3. Red Wine
4. Cola
5. Cranberry Juice
6. Popsicles or Slushies
7. Soy Sauce
8. Balsamic Vinegar
9. Tomato Sauce
10. Beets
11. Tea (hot or cold)
****It's not a food, but don't forget how badly smoking disclores your teeth!
Your Dentures: Info From the ADA
If you have lost all of your natural teeth, whether it is from periodontal disease, tooth decay or injury, full dentures can replace your mission teeth - and your smile. Replacing missing teeth will benefit not only your appearance but also your heath. You'll be able to eat and speak - two things that most people often take for granted until their natural teeth are prematurely lost.
A full denture, also called a complete denture, replace natural teeth and provides support for cheeks and lips. Without support from the denture, facial muscles can sag, making a person appear older.
Types of Complete Dentures
There are various types of complete dentures. A conventional full denture is made and placed in the patients mouth after the remaining teeth are removed and tissues have healed. Healing may take several months.
An immediate full denture is inserted immediately after the remaining teeth are removed. The dentist takes measurements and makes models of the patients jaws during a preliminary visit. With immediate dentures, the denture wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period.
The framework of the full denture, called the base, generally is made of flesh-colored acrylic plastic. The base of the upper denture covers the palate (roof of the mouth) while what of the lover is shaped more like a horseshoe to accommodate room for the tongue. The gum and bone tissues of the dental ridge support the denture. The base, which conforms closely to the ridge, is held in place with a thin film of saliva.
When the base of the upper denture rests over the gums and palate, a seal is created, which holds the denture in place. Cheek muscles and the tongue help hold the lower denture in place.
If you have a few sound individual teeth, the tooth roots may be used to provide support for an over denture. Root canal therapy is performed on the teeth. Then the dentist reduces the teeth to just above the gum line. The dentist will fabricate a denture that is inserted over the roots and the gums.
A complete denture may be attached to several implants (artificial roots that attach directly to the jaw), which allows a secure fit. Properly healed implants can help reduce jaw and gum shrinkage. Your dentist will determine what type of denture is right for you.
The good thing about dentures is that they can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth. There may be little change in your appearance and full dentures may even improve the look of your smile.
Getting Used To Your Dentures
New dentures may feel awkward or uncomfortable for the first few weeks. They may feel loose, while the muscles of your cheeks and tongue learn to hold them in place. Salivary flow temporarily increases. Minor irritation or soreness is not unusual. These problems often diminish as your mouth becomes accustomed to the new dentures.
Eating with dentures takes a little practice. Start with soft foods cut into small portions. Chewing slowly and using both sides of your mouth at the same time will prevent the dentures from moving out of place. Other types of food can be gradually added until you resume your normal diet.
Speaking without new dentures will also require practice. Reading out loud and repeating difficult words in front of a mirror will help. Speaking slowly will help eliminate muffled speech. If they sometimes slip out of place when you laugh, cough or smile, you can reposition them by gently biting down and swallowing.
After you get the new dentures, your dentist may advise you to wear them most of the time, including while you sleep. After the adjustment period, you may be instructed to remove them at bedtime. Generally it is not advisable to wear them around the clock because tissues that are constantly converted with denture material can become irritated.
Denture Adhesives
Although denture are made to fit securely, you dentist may recommend using a denture adhesive while you become accustomed to wearing your new denture.
A loose denture, which makes chewing difficult and can change the facial features, may require relining. A denture that does not fit properly many cause irritation and possible sores and infection. While a denture adhesive can temporarily aid a loose-fitting denture, prolonged use of adhesives is not recommended. If your denture is loose, have your dentist check it.
Caring For Dentures
Like natural teeth, dentures must be properly cared for it they are to last. They are very delicate and may break even if dropped just a few inches. Then handling your dentures, stand over a folded towel or a sink filled with water. When you're not wearing your dentures store them away from curious pets and children.
Daily brushing will remove food deposits and plaque and helps prevent the artificial teeth from becoming permanently stained. While it is best to use a brush made specifically for cleaning dentures, a toothbrush with soft bristles also can be used. Avoid hard-bristled brushes that can damage dentures. An ultrasonic cleaner may be used to care for your dentures, but it does not replace a thorough daily brushing.
Some denture wearers use hand soap or mild dish washing liquid, which are both acceptable for cleaning dentures. You should avoid other powdered household cleaners, however, which may be too abrasive. Your dentist may recommend a denture cleanser. To clean the denture, rise off loose food particles. Moisten the brush and apply the cleanser. Gently brush every surface to avoid damage.
Don't let your dentures dry out or they might lose their shape. When you are not wearing them, place them in a denture cleanser soaking solution or in plain water. You r dentist can recommend the best method. Never soak dentures in hot water, which can cause them to warp. Look for denture soaking solutions that display the American Dental Association's Seal of Acceptance, a symbol of safety and effectiveness.
This information was provided by and credit given to:
American Dental Association
Division of Communications
211 East Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611-2678
A full denture, also called a complete denture, replace natural teeth and provides support for cheeks and lips. Without support from the denture, facial muscles can sag, making a person appear older.
Types of Complete Dentures
There are various types of complete dentures. A conventional full denture is made and placed in the patients mouth after the remaining teeth are removed and tissues have healed. Healing may take several months.
An immediate full denture is inserted immediately after the remaining teeth are removed. The dentist takes measurements and makes models of the patients jaws during a preliminary visit. With immediate dentures, the denture wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period.
The framework of the full denture, called the base, generally is made of flesh-colored acrylic plastic. The base of the upper denture covers the palate (roof of the mouth) while what of the lover is shaped more like a horseshoe to accommodate room for the tongue. The gum and bone tissues of the dental ridge support the denture. The base, which conforms closely to the ridge, is held in place with a thin film of saliva.
When the base of the upper denture rests over the gums and palate, a seal is created, which holds the denture in place. Cheek muscles and the tongue help hold the lower denture in place.
If you have a few sound individual teeth, the tooth roots may be used to provide support for an over denture. Root canal therapy is performed on the teeth. Then the dentist reduces the teeth to just above the gum line. The dentist will fabricate a denture that is inserted over the roots and the gums.
A complete denture may be attached to several implants (artificial roots that attach directly to the jaw), which allows a secure fit. Properly healed implants can help reduce jaw and gum shrinkage. Your dentist will determine what type of denture is right for you.
The good thing about dentures is that they can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth. There may be little change in your appearance and full dentures may even improve the look of your smile.
Getting Used To Your Dentures
New dentures may feel awkward or uncomfortable for the first few weeks. They may feel loose, while the muscles of your cheeks and tongue learn to hold them in place. Salivary flow temporarily increases. Minor irritation or soreness is not unusual. These problems often diminish as your mouth becomes accustomed to the new dentures.
Eating with dentures takes a little practice. Start with soft foods cut into small portions. Chewing slowly and using both sides of your mouth at the same time will prevent the dentures from moving out of place. Other types of food can be gradually added until you resume your normal diet.
Speaking without new dentures will also require practice. Reading out loud and repeating difficult words in front of a mirror will help. Speaking slowly will help eliminate muffled speech. If they sometimes slip out of place when you laugh, cough or smile, you can reposition them by gently biting down and swallowing.
After you get the new dentures, your dentist may advise you to wear them most of the time, including while you sleep. After the adjustment period, you may be instructed to remove them at bedtime. Generally it is not advisable to wear them around the clock because tissues that are constantly converted with denture material can become irritated.
Denture Adhesives
Although denture are made to fit securely, you dentist may recommend using a denture adhesive while you become accustomed to wearing your new denture.
A loose denture, which makes chewing difficult and can change the facial features, may require relining. A denture that does not fit properly many cause irritation and possible sores and infection. While a denture adhesive can temporarily aid a loose-fitting denture, prolonged use of adhesives is not recommended. If your denture is loose, have your dentist check it.
Caring For Dentures
Like natural teeth, dentures must be properly cared for it they are to last. They are very delicate and may break even if dropped just a few inches. Then handling your dentures, stand over a folded towel or a sink filled with water. When you're not wearing your dentures store them away from curious pets and children.
Daily brushing will remove food deposits and plaque and helps prevent the artificial teeth from becoming permanently stained. While it is best to use a brush made specifically for cleaning dentures, a toothbrush with soft bristles also can be used. Avoid hard-bristled brushes that can damage dentures. An ultrasonic cleaner may be used to care for your dentures, but it does not replace a thorough daily brushing.
Some denture wearers use hand soap or mild dish washing liquid, which are both acceptable for cleaning dentures. You should avoid other powdered household cleaners, however, which may be too abrasive. Your dentist may recommend a denture cleanser. To clean the denture, rise off loose food particles. Moisten the brush and apply the cleanser. Gently brush every surface to avoid damage.
Don't let your dentures dry out or they might lose their shape. When you are not wearing them, place them in a denture cleanser soaking solution or in plain water. You r dentist can recommend the best method. Never soak dentures in hot water, which can cause them to warp. Look for denture soaking solutions that display the American Dental Association's Seal of Acceptance, a symbol of safety and effectiveness.
This information was provided by and credit given to:
American Dental Association
Division of Communications
211 East Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611-2678
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)