The Benefits of Dental Sealants for Children and Adults

Dental sealants are a popular preventative dental treatment that help to protect the teeth from decay and cavities. In this blog, we will discuss the benefits of dental sealants for children and adults.

What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating that is applied to the surface of the teeth. They are typically made of a plastic material and are applied to the back teeth, which are more susceptible to decay and cavities.

Benefits of dental sealants:

• Protects against cavities: Dental sealants help to protect the teeth from decay and cavities by creating a barrier between the tooth and harmful bacteria.
  
  
• Cost-effective: Dental sealants are a cost-effective preventative treatment that can help to save you money in the long run by reducing the need for more extensive dental procedures.
  
  
• Quick and painless: Applying dental sealants is a quick and painless process that can be completed in a single dental appointment.
  
  
• Suitable for children and adults: Dental sealants are a great preventative treatment for both children and adults, as they can be applied to baby teeth as well as permanent teeth.
  
  
• Long-lasting protection: Dental sealants can last for several years with proper care and maintenance, providing long-lasting protection against decay and cavities.

Dental sealants are a safe and effective preventative treatment that can help to protect the teeth from decay and cavities. They are a cost-effective, quick, and painless treatment suitable for both children and adults, providing long-lasting protection against tooth decay. If you are interested in dental sealants for you or your child, talk to your dentist about whether they are a good option for you.

Dry mouth is a common problem that can harm your teeth

If your saliva flow is reduced, this can cause dry mouth which often leads to increased tooth and gum problems.

Dry mouth – known as xerostomia – is a common problem especially among older adults. It’s caused by certain medical disorders and is often a side effect of medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, pain killers and diuretics.

The common problems associated with dry mouth include:

– Constant sore throat
– Burning sensation
– Problems speaking
– Difficulty swallowing
– Hoarseness or dry nasal passages

When there is not enough saliva to lubricate your mouth, wash away food and neutralize the acids produced by plaque, there is a risk of extensive tooth decay.

If you are at risk from this condition, your dentist can recommend various methods to restore moisture.

For example, sugar-free candy or gum stimulates saliva flow, and moisture can be replaced by using artificial saliva and oral rinses.

As dry mouth is a potential side effect of many prescribed and over-the-counter medications it is a very common problem.

These medications can include antihistamines, decongestants, painkillers, high blood pressure medications, muscle relaxants, drugs for urinary incontinence, Parkinson’s disease medications, antidepressants and many others.

Fortunately there are many simple solutions available to reduce the risk to your oral health caused by dry mouth so talk to your dentist if you are on any kind of medication or you feel you may be at risk from this issue.

The difference between canker sores and cold sores

 Although canker sores are often confused with cold sores, there is a difference.

Canker sores occur inside the mouth, and cold sores usually occur outside the mouth.

Canker sores are small ulcers with a white or gray base and a red border. There can be one or more sores in the mouth. They are very common and often recur.

They usually heal in a week or two and rinsing with antimicrobial mouthrinses may help reduce the irritation.

Cold sores – also called fever blisters – are composed of groups of painful, fluid-filled blisters that often erupt around the lips and sometimes under the nose or chin.

Cold sores are usually caused by herpes virus type I and are very contagious. They usually heal in about a week.

Over-the-counter topical anesthetics can provide temporary relief and prescription antiviral drugs may reduce these kinds of viral infections.

Sedation Dentistry: How It Can Help You Overcome Dental Anxiety

Going to the dentist is an essential part of maintaining good oral health, but for some people, the thought of sitting in a dental chair can trigger feelings of fear and anxiety. Fortunately, sedation dentistry offers a solution for those who struggle with dental anxiety, allowing them to receive the dental care they need without fear or discomfort.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. There are different levels of sedation available, ranging from mild relaxation to complete unconsciousness, depending on the patient's needs and the type of procedure being performed. The most common types of sedation used in dentistry include:

• Nitrous oxide: Also known as laughing gas, this is a mild sedative that is inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. It produces a feeling of relaxation and euphoria, and the effects wear off quickly once the gas is turned off.
  
  
• Oral sedation: This involves taking a pill or liquid medication prior to the dental procedure to induce a state of relaxation. The medication can make patients drowsy, but they will remain conscious throughout the procedure.
  
  
• IV sedation: This is a deeper form of sedation administered through an intravenous line. Patients are still conscious, but they may have little memory of the procedure and feel groggy for several hours afterward.
  
  
• General anesthesia: This is the deepest form of sedation, in which patients are completely unconscious and unable to respond to stimuli. It is usually reserved for more complex procedures and is administered by a licensed anesthesiologist.

How Can Sedation Dentistry Help?

Sedation dentistry can benefit anyone who experiences fear or anxiety related to dental procedures, including those with:

• Dental phobia: This is an extreme fear of the dentist that can cause physical symptoms such as shaking, sweating, and nausea.
  
  
• Previous traumatic dental experiences: Negative experiences with dentistry can cause patients to avoid future dental appointments.
  
  
• Sensitive teeth or gag reflex: These issues can make dental procedures uncomfortable or even painful.
  
  
• Complex dental needs: Some procedures, such as wisdom teeth extraction or root canal therapy, can be lengthy and uncomfortable.

Sedation dentistry can help patients overcome their fear and anxiety, allowing them to receive the dental care they need to maintain good oral health. It can also help patients with sensitive teeth or gag reflexes feel more comfortable during procedures and can make complex procedures more tolerable.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Sedation dentistry is generally considered safe when administered by a trained and licensed dental professional. However, like any medical procedure, it does carry some risks. Patients should inform their dentist of any medical conditions or medications they are taking before undergoing sedation. In addition, they should have a responsible adult accompany them to the appointment and should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for at least 24 hours afterward.

In conclusion, sedation dentistry is an excellent option for those who struggle with dental anxiety or other issues that make dental procedures uncomfortable or painful. By working with a trained and licensed dental professional, patients can safely and comfortably receive the dental care they need to maintain good oral health.

Veneers: The Secret to a Perfect Smile

Do you dream of having a beautiful, straight, and flawless smile? Thanks to modern dental technology, achieving a stunning smile is more accessible than ever before. One of the most popular options for transforming the appearance of teeth is veneers.

What are veneers?

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are placed over the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They are usually made of porcelain or composite resin and are designed to look and feel like natural teeth.

Why choose veneers?

Veneers are an excellent solution for a wide range of dental issues, including:

1. Stained or discolored teeth: Teeth that are severely discolored or stained can be difficult to whiten with traditional teeth whitening methods. Veneers offer a long-lasting and effective solution for brightening your smile.

2. Chipped or broken teeth: Veneers can restore the shape and size of teeth that are chipped or broken. They can also help protect teeth from further damage.

3. Misaligned or uneven teeth: If you have gaps or crooked teeth, veneers can help you achieve a straighter and more symmetrical smile without the need for braces.

4. Irregularly shaped teeth: Veneers can also improve the appearance of teeth that are too small or oddly shaped.

What is the process of getting veneers?

Getting veneers usually involves two or three visits to your dentist. During your first visit, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and prepare them for the veneers by removing a small amount of enamel. This allows the veneers to fit snugly over the teeth without appearing bulky or unnatural.

Once your custom-made veneers are ready, your dentist will place them over your teeth and bond them using a special adhesive. Finally, your dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and natural-looking fit.

How long do veneers last?

With proper care, veneers can last for 10-15 years or more. It is important to follow good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for checkups and cleanings.

Are veneers right for me?

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, veneers may be the perfect solution for you. However, it is important to discuss your options with your dentist and make sure that veneers are the best choice for your specific needs.

At Michael D. Meshnick DDS PC, we offer a range of cosmetic dentistry services, including veneers, to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how veneers can transform your smile.

How Dental Implants Can Restore Your Smile and Confidence

If you have missing teeth, dental implants can be a life-changing solution that can restore your smile and confidence. Dental implants are a popular and effective option for tooth replacement because they are durable, long-lasting, and look and feel like natural teeth. Here are some of the ways that dental implants can restore your smile and confidence:

1. Improve Appearance: Dental implants are designed to look and function like natural teeth. They are custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of your existing teeth, resulting in a natural-looking smile that can boost your confidence.
2. Restore Function: Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat and speak properly, and can cause discomfort and pain. Dental implants can restore the function of your teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with ease.
3. Preserve Bone Density: When teeth are missing, the jawbone can start to deteriorate over time. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preserving bone density and preventing further bone loss.
4. Long-Lasting Solution: Dental implants are a long-lasting solution that can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Unlike dentures or bridges, which may need to be replaced or adjusted over time, dental implants provide a permanent solution that can save you time and money in the long run.
5. Improve Self-Confidence: Missing teeth can cause embarrassment and low self-esteem. Dental implants can improve your self-confidence by restoring your smile and allowing you to feel comfortable and confident in social situations.

If you are considering dental implants, it is important to consult with a qualified dental professional to determine if they are the right solution for your dental needs. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can restore your smile and confidence for years to come.

 

Common mouth sores: causes and cures

 Mouth sores can be very annoying and painful and can have many causes.

The causes can range from infections – bacterial, viral or fungal – to a loose orthodontic wire or a denture that doesn’t fit or a sharp edge from a broken tooth or filling.

But mouth sores may be symptoms of an underlying disease or problem.

So, if you’ve had any mouth sore that lasts a week or longer, its a good idea to get your dentist to check it out.

Here are some of the most common mouth sores:

Canker sores: These are small ulcers with a white or gray base and a red border. They appear inside the mouth and are not contagious though they often return. Problems such as poor immune systems, viruses or fatigue and stress may be involved. They usually heal on their own after a week or two.

Cold sores: Cold sores are annoying and painful. They are also known as fever blisters or Herpes simplex and are groups of fluid-filled blisters. They often erupt around the lips and sometimes under the nose or around the chin. Cold sores caused by herpes virus type 1 are very contagious and the virus stays in the body. Cold sore blisters usually heal in a week by themselves.

Candidiasis: This fungal infection (also called moniliasis or oral thrush) occurs when the yeast Candida albicans reproduce in large numbers. It is common among denture wearers and people who have dry mouth syndrome are very susceptible to it. The focus is on preventing it or controlling the conditions that caused the outbreak.

Any mouth sores that last more than a few days should be checked with your dentist.

How cancer treatment can affect your oral health

 More than 1 million Americans are diagnosed with cancer each year and many of them will develop problems with their oral health as a result of their cancer treatment.

While it’s natural that they’ll be focused on their cancer treatment, it’s important not to overlook the importance of a dental examination as part of the process of maintaining overall health.

For example, radiation therapy of the head and neck area may lead to certain complications such as dry mouth, sensitive lesions in the oral cavity, hypersensitive teeth, rapid tooth decay and difficulty swallowing.

Chemotherapy and other medication can also have significant effects in the mouth.

To help prevent, minimize and manage such problems, the dentist and oncologist can work together – before and during cancer treatment.

Many medications lead to dry mouth, which can lead to a higher risk of gum disease and other problems.

The dentist may therefore recommend a saliva replacement, an artificial saliva that is available over-the-counter at pharmacies.

Frequent fluoride applications may also be recommended.
If you are receiving treatment, schedule regular screenings with your dentist and contact your dentist or physician immediately on any sign of mouth infection.

This may have serious implications for your overall health.

Your dentist and physician both want your treatment to be as safe and effective as possible.

Diabetes and your dental health: How your dentist can help

 If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important that you let your dentist know so that they can give you the best care possible.

As more than 15 million Americans have diabetes, your dentist will be familiar with the issues and will give you the specialist care you need.

This is important because diabetes can lower your resistance to infection and slow the healing process.

It’s important to tell your dentist:

– If you have been diagnosed with .diabetes
– If the disease is under control
– If there has been any other change in your medical history
– Names of all prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking

The most common oral health problems associated with diabetes are:

– Tooth decay
– Periodontal (gum) disease
– Salivary gland dysfunction
– Fungal infections
– Infection and delayed healing
– Taste impairment

If you have regular dental checkups – and keep your dentist informed about your status – they’ll be able to help you reduce and manage these risks.

Making the most of your smile

Your smile is a major factor in the impression people get when they meet you.

And the good news is that you now don’t have to settle for a smile spoiled by stained, chipped, or misshapen teeth.

Advances in dental treatment mean there is a wide range of choices to help you get the smile that you want. Here are some of the options:

– Tooth whitening (bleaching) can help brighten teeth that have become discolored or stained. It can be done in the dental office or with a system the dentist can give you to use at home

– Bonding improves the appearance of teeth that have become chipped, broken, cracked or stained. This is done by bonding tooth-colored materials to the tooth surface

– Enamel shaping involves modifying teeth to improve their appearance by removing or contouring enamel

– Veneers are thin custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front side of teeth. They are used to treat spaces between teeth and teeth that are chipped, stained or poorly shaped.

– Braces may be needed if teeth are crooked, crowded or do not meet properly – and not just for kids

Even small changes can have a big impact on your smile and so make a huge difference to how you look and how you feel about yourself.

If you’d like an even better smile, your dentist will be able to give you information about the options available.

Caring for people who have special needs

People at any age can have a condition that makes it difficult for them to look after their own dental health.

This could affect people who suffer from a wide range of conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, mental retardation, Down syndrome, genetic disorders, Alzheimer's disease or arthritis.

However, people in all of these categories have the same dental needs as everyone else – they need daily brushing and flossing, regular dental visits and a balanced diet.

There are some steps caregivers can take to make it easier to look after people in those categories.

If the person is uncooperative or uncontrollable, try to explain what you are about to do and schedule the task for a time of day when they are rested.

Move in a calm, slow, reassuring manner to avoid startling them. Give praise and encourage them when they help themselves.

Support the persons head, and take special care to prevent choking or gagging when the head is tilted back.

If the person is unable or unwilling to keep their mouth open, your dentist will explain how you can make and use a mouth prop.

Ask your dentist for advice on how to care for people with special needs and check if they have facilities for caring for these needs in the dental office.

How to take care of your teeth with braces

Braces are orthodontic apparatus used to help fix crooked and crowded teeth.

While modern braces can be comfortable and inconspicuous, you may have to take extra steps to care for your teeth when wearing them.

Its important that you continue good oral hygiene practices while wearing braces.

You need to continue brushing regularly, following the approach suggested by your dentist, as well as flossing daily and making regular visits to the dentist.

People with braces should stick to a balanced diet and limit the number of snacks between meals.

Your dentist may suggest that you avoid certain foods that could interfere with braces or accidentally bend the wires. This can include nuts, popcorn, hard candy, ice and sticky foods such as chewing gum or caramel.

You can still continue to enjoy sports and other activities but a protective mouth guard is often recommended to reduce the risk of injury to the mouth or jaw. Your dentist will suggest an appropriate mouth guard when the braces are in place.

Braces can make a big difference to your smile and your future dental health. Modern technology and following good practices means you should be able to wear them with comfort and confidence.

The process of installing Invisalign

Invisalign is a system of clear mouthguards that can be used instead of braces to help straighten teeth.

The big advantage is that Invisalign looks better and is more comfortable than braces.

However, not everyone is a candidate for using the system so you with have to check with your dentist.

If an orthodontist certified in Invisalign says you can benefit from the system, they will take impressions of your mouth, write up a detailed specification and then send everything to a high-tech lab.

Next, the lab will show the orthodontist a preview of the appliances.

The lab then makes a series of “aligners” – depending on the situation, you may need between 12 to 48 aligners.

After the impression of the teeth is taken, it will normally require a visit to the orthodontist every six weeks.

Some patients will be advised to wear metal braces for a period and then switching to Invisalign when their mouth is ready.

For many people Invisalign provides an ideal way of making their smile look better.

Why cavities aren't just for kids

Tooth decay or cavities result from destruction of the tooth enamel and can lead to a range of problems from toothache to bad breath.

Cavities occur when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches) such as milk, sugared drinks, cakes or candy are frequently left on the teeth.

Bacteria that live in the mouth thrive on these foods, producing acids as a result. Over a period of time, these acids destroy tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay.

Many people associate cavities with children but the changes that occur with aging make cavities an adult problem, too.

Recession of the gums away from the teeth, combined with an increased incidence of gum disease, can expose tooth roots to plaque.

Tooth roots are covered with cementum, a softer tissue than enamel. They are susceptible to decay and are more sensitive to touch and to hot and cold. The majority of people over age 50 have tooth-root decay.

Decay around the edges of fillings is also common to older adults. As many of them did not benefit from fluoride and modern preventive dental care when they were younger, they often have a number of dental fillings.

Over the years, these fillings may weaken, fracture and leak around the edges.

Bacteria accumulate in these tiny crevices causing acid to build up which leads to decay.

You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips:

– Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
– Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaner
– Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking

Its also worth asking your dentist about supplemental fluoride, which strengthens your teeth, and about dental sealants, a plastic protective coating which is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect them from decay.

In addition, its important to visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral examination.

What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

If you sometimes find the taste of something hot or cold painful on your teeth, you may suffer from sensitive teeth.

Sensitive teeth is a common problem which may be caused by cavities and fractured teeth.

But it can also be caused by worn tooth enamel, a cracked tooth or an exposed tooth root.

Tooth enamel is the strongest substance in the body and it protects the crowns of healthy teeth. A layer called cementum protects the tooth root under the gum line.

The part underneath the enamel and the cementum is called dentin, which is less dense than enamel or cementum.

The dentin contains small hollow tubes or canals called tubules. When the dentin loses its protective covering, the tubules allow hot, cold, acidic or sticky foods to reach the nerves and cells inside the tooth.

This causes hypersensitivity and occasional discomfort but fortunately, the irritation does not cause permanent damage.

Following proper oral hygiene helps prevent the gums from receding and causing the pain of sensitive teeth.

Brushing your teeth incorrectly or even brushing too much can cause gum problems.

Your dentist will advise you on the best daily routine to maximize your oral hygiene.

Taking steps to stop oral cancer before its too late

Oral cancer hits more than 30,000 Americans every year but you can minimize the risk by taking steps to ensure its caught early enough.

The first indications of oral cancer may be a very small, but dangerous, oral spot or sore that you are not even aware of.

In a routine examination, your dentist will carefully examine the inside of your mouth and tongue.

If they notice a flat, painless, white or red spot or a small sore, this may be completely harmless. But harmful spots or sores often look the same as harmless ones.

To ensure that a spot or sore is not dangerous, your dentist may choose to perform a simple test, such as a brush test. This collects cells from the lesion which can them be analyzed.

Any positive results from a brush test must usually be confirmed by a biopsy before deciding the next step.

If precancerous cells are found, the lesion can be surgically removed if necessary during a separate procedure.

When caught early enough, the chances of preventing the cancer developing are high but only half of those diagnosed survive more than five years.

Thats why regular dental examinations are so important for your overall health and not just to have good teeth.

Diabetes and your dental health: How your dentist can help

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important that you let your dentist know so that they can give you the best care possible.

As more than 15 million Americans have diabetes, your dentist will be familiar with the issues and will give you the specialist care you need.

This is important because diabetes can lower your resistance to infection and slow the healing process.

It’s important to tell your dentist:

– If you have been diagnosed with .diabetes
– If the disease is under control
– If there has been any other change in your medical history
– Names of all prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking

The most common oral health problems associated with diabetes are:

– Tooth decay
– Periodontal (gum) disease
– Salivary gland dysfunction
– Fungal infections
– Infection and delayed healing
– Taste impairment

If you have regular dental checkups – and keep your dentist informed about your status – they’ll be able to help you reduce and manage these risks.

How to make your smile brighter

Your smile makes a huge difference to what people think about you and how you feel about yourself.

And there are many options available to help you improve the look and brightness of your smile, including:

In-office bleaching: During chair-side bleaching, the dentist will apply either a protective gel to your gums or a rubber shield to protect the oral soft tissues. A bleaching agent is then applied to the teeth, and a special light may be used to enhance the action of the agent.

At-home bleaching: There are several types of products available for use at home, which can either be dispensed by your dentist or purchased over-the-counter. These include peroxide bleaching solutions, which actually bleach the tooth enamel. Peroxide-containing whiteners typically come in a gel and are placed in a mouth guard.

Whitening toothpastes: All toothpastes help remove surface stain through the action of mild abrasives. “Whitening” toothpastes include special chemical or polishing agents that are more effective at removing stains. However, unlike bleaches, they don’t alter the intrinsic color of teeth.

Start by speaking to your dentist. He or she will tell you if whitening procedures would be effective for you as whiteners may not correct all types of discoloration.

Things to look out for during pregnancy

Every woman wants to maintain their own health during pregnancy and to take whatever steps are necessary to give the baby the best possible start.

There are a few factors in your oral health to look out for during this time.

One consideration is that its common for pregnant women to have the urge to eat between meals. The risk is that frequent snacking on carbohydrate-containing foods can encourage tooth decay.

Bacteria in your mouth called plaque can convert the sugar and starch in your mouth into an acid that attacks tooth enamel. After repeated attacks, tooth decay can result.

So, when you need a snack, try to choose foods that are nutritious for you and your baby such as raw fruits and vegetables and dairy products.

During pregnancy, your bodys hormone levels rise considerably. Gum problems, such as gingivitis, are especially common during the second to eighth months of pregnancy. They may cause red, puffy or tender gums that bleed when you brush.

This is an exaggerated response to plaque caused by higher levels of progesterone in your system. Your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings at some stages to help you avoid problems.

Occasionally overgrowths of gum tissue, called pregnancy tumors, appear on the gums during the second trimester. These localized growths or swellings are usually found between the teeth and are thought to be related to excess plaque.

They bleed easily and are often surgically removed after the baby is born.

Studies indicate that pregnant women who have severe periodontal (gum) disease may be at increased risk for pre-term delivery, which in turn increases the risk of having a low-birth-weight baby.

So its particularly important to maintain good oral health during pregnancy. Make sure you clean your teeth carefully and visit your dentist regularly.

Treating facial pain and jaw problems

Chronic facial pain is a problem faced by millions of Americans.

Common symptoms can include pain in or around the ear, tenderness of the jaw, clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth or even head and neck aches.

If you are suffering from this type of pain, your dentist can help identify its source with a thorough exam and appropriate x-rays.

Sometimes, the problem is a sinus or toothache or it could be an early stage of periodontal disease.

But for some pain, the cause is not so easily diagnosed.

There are two joints and several jaw muscles which make it possible to open and close the mouth. They work together when you chew, speak, and swallow.

These structures include muscles and ligaments, as well as the jaw bone, the mandible (lower jaw) with two joints, the TMJs.

Any problem that prevents this complex system of muscles, ligaments, discs and bones from working together properly may result in a painful TMJ disorder.

There are several ways the TMJ disorders may be treated.

Diagnosis is an important step before treatment.

Part of your clinical examination includes checking the joints and muscles for tenderness, clicking, popping or difficulty moving.

Your dentist may take x-rays and may make a cast of your teeth to see how your bite fits together.

To help you deal with this pain, your dentist will recommend what type of treatment you need and may refer you to a specialist.