Dental Veneer Maintenance

Dental Veneer Maintenance

How To Maintain a Smile You Love 

It’s well known that celebrities often have veneers. It’s not just for people like George Clooney or 50 Cent , though. Dental veneers have become a popular cosmetic dentistry option for transforming smiles, providing a quick and effective solution to various aesthetic concerns. While veneers offer remarkable improvements in appearance, it’s essential to understand their impact on oral health, addressing concerns about tooth structure, maintenance, and long-term care to ensure a healthy and radiant smile post-procedure. 

Preserving Tooth Structure 

One common concern about veneers is their impact on natural tooth structure. Unlike some dental procedures that require significant enamel removal, modern veneer techniques often involve minimal tooth preparation. This conservative approach aims to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible while still achieving the desired cosmetic enhancements. 

Maintenance 

Veneers are known for their longevity, but their lifespan depends on various factors, including oral care practices, lifestyle, and individual habits. Here’s how you can ensure the long-term success of your veneers:  Maintaining veneers is relatively straightforward, requiring a combination of good oral hygiene practices and some cautionary measures. Here are key tips for effective maintenance: 

Oral Hygiene:

Brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup around the veneers. Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid damaging the veneer surface. 

Regular Dental Check-ups:

Schedule routine dental check-ups to monitor the condition of your veneers and overall oral health. 

Avoiding Staining Agents:

Minimize the consumption of stain-inducing substances like coffee, red wine, and tobacco to prevent discoloration. 

Avoid Excessive Force:

While veneers are durable, avoid excessive force such as biting on hard objects or using teeth as tools to prevent damage. 

Addressing Concerns Promptly:

If you experience any issues such as chips, cracks, or discomfort, seek dental attention promptly to address concerns before they escalate. 

Reevaluation of Aesthetics: 

Over time, your aesthetic preferences may change. Periodic reevaluation with your dentist can help determine if any adjustments or enhancements are needed. 

Veneers can be a transformative solution for achieving a radiant and flawless smile. When placed and maintained correctly, they can coexist harmoniously with your natural teeth, enhancing your appearance and giving you the confidence boost you need. Open communication with your dentist, diligent maintenance, and a commitment to oral care contribute to the longevity and health of your veneers, ensuring that your smile continues to shine brightly for years to come. 

Dental Emergencies: What to Do When You Break a Tooth

Dental Emergencies: What to Do When You Break a Tooth

Dental Emergencies: What to Do When You Break a Tooth

Dental emergencies can occur anytime, and chipping a tooth can be a startling and painful experience. Knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath is crucial, whether it happens due to a sports injury, biting down on something hard, or a simple accident. This blog aims to guide you through the steps to take when you chip a tooth, offering both short-term first aid and long-term dental care through this dental emergency.

What should you do?

  • Stay Calm:
    First and foremost, try to stay calm. While a chipped tooth can be uncomfortable and even painful, panicking won’t help the situation. Take a deep breath and assess the damage.
  • Save the Chip:
    If you can locate the chipped fragment of the tooth, save it in a clean container with milk or your saliva. This may be helpful for the dentist to assess the extent of the damage and potentially reattach the piece.
  • Rinse Your Mouth:
    Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area around the chipped tooth. This can help remove any blood or debris and alleviate some discomfort.
  • Control Bleeding:
    If there is bleeding, apply a clean piece of gauze or a soft cloth to the affected area and apply gentle pressure. Hold it in place until the bleeding stops. Avoid using tissues or paper towels, as these can break apart and leave residue.
  • Manage Pain:
    Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Clove oil can is also know to help with inflammation, and can be applied to the area. To reduce swelling and numb the area, apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth to the cheek or lip near the chipped tooth. Limit the application to 15 minutes at a time.
  • Protect the Tooth:
    The broken tooth may become jagged or even loose. You can find dental wax in most over-the-counter temporary kits at your local drugstore. Use this to protect your tooth, and your mouth from further damage. It’s important to leave the area alone after this, and especially avoid any DIY repairs.
  • Schedule an Emergency Dental Visit:
    If you see yellow dentin or red exposed pulp, contact an emergency dental clinic immediately. Explain the situation and follow any advice they provide. Prompt professional intervention can prevent complications and increase the likelihood of successful treatment.

Conclusion

A chipped tooth can be a distressing experience, but taking the right steps in the immediate aftermath can make a significant difference in your recovery. Remember to stay calm, prioritize oral hygiene, manage pain appropriately, and seek professional dental care promptly. Your dentist is the best resource to guide you through the necessary steps.

Oral Health and Heart Disease

Oral Health and Heart Disease

Oral Health and Heart Disease

As the American Heart Association celebrates 100 years of American Heart Month, we want to bring attention to your heart, through your teeth! As research advances, we see a connection between oral health and heart disease. A study done in 2018 found a correlation between those who experienced cardiovascular events, and those experienced tooth loss due to poor oral health. Let’s take a deeper look into how exactly oral health can increase the chances of heart disease.

Oral health problem areas

When looking at the most problematic oral health issues, there are three that stand out with heart disease; gingivitis, periodontal disease, and tooth decay.

Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a common form of gum disease after plaque buildup.

Periodontal disease
Periodontal disease is a more severe gum infection that affects the surrounding gums and bones.

Tooth Decay
Tooth decay, also known as a cavity, occurs when bacteria in your mouth produce acid that attacks and damages the enamel.

Oral Health and your heart

According to Cleavland Clinical, the three most popular disorders that can be associated with poor oral health are stroke, clogged arteries, and coronary artery disease.

Stroke
A stroke is when when blood supply is blocked to the brain.

Clogged arteries
A clogged artery is the result of fat and other substances building up inside the arteries.

Coronary artery disease
Coronary artery disease is when the arteries are unable to properly supply enough blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the heart.

Your overall health

While it’s important to note the correlation between heart problems and poor oral care, we can’t say that one causes the other. The best thing you can do is take care of your body. As more research is done, we see that the body should be treated as a whole, not individually. The care that you put into one aspect of your body, can affect your overall health. Stay on top of regular visits with your general doctor, and your dentist.

Dental Insurance and Out of Pockets, How Does it Work?

Dental Insurance and Out of Pockets, How Does it Work?

Insurance is a great tool to utilize when it comes to maintaining financial stability and your health, however insurance can be difficult to understand. Dental insurance can be a whole other beast of its own. Many people assume that you can use them interchangeably, but often they work entirely differently. This article will help you understand your dental insurance a bit better so you can be better prepared for your next dentist appointment.

It’s best to tag team your insurance
Most dental offices have treatment coordinators to give you the most accurate estimate for any type of service or procedure you may be needing, however you may receive an unexpected “denial for coverage”. These surprise bills are not ideal for anyone, but this is a great time to work with your dental office to go through your Explanation of Benefits(EOB). Many times the insurance company has simply processed the claim incorrectly.

Dental insurance is preventative focused
Generic health insurance copays and out of pockets can often deter people from making regular check ups with their physicians. Dental insurance works differently though. Restorative and intense procedures are met with higher out of pockets, so it’s important to keep up on your regular visits.

Dental Insurance benefits do not roll over
Most plans will have a set amount of benefits for the year, so when fall hits, it’s a good idea to consult with your remaining balance and make an appointment with your dentist to use them up.

Many dental insurance companies will “down code” you
It’s important to understand exactly what your insurance will cover, because a lot of times they will only cover a service if a cheaper product is used. They will downgrade your service without you knowing so you’re left with an “upcharge”. 

File an appeal
Every insurance has an appeal process. If you disagree with the outcome of your insurance’s decision, then you should work with your dental office to put together an appeal. Be sure to document everything throughout your process.

At the end of the day our health is the absolute priority. You should never put off services because of financial burdens. Payment plans are also an option if you’re left with an unexpected out-of-pocket. Take advantage of your dental office, oftentimes they are the biggest advocate for you!

Benefits of An Electric Toothbrush

Benefits of An Electric Toothbrush

In the ever-evolving world of oral hygiene, the electric toothbrush has emerged as a game-changer, revolutionizing how we care for our teeth and gums. This cutting-edge dental tool goes beyond the traditional manual toothbrush, offering many benefits contributing to a healthier, brighter smile. Let’s dive into the advantages of switching to an electric toothbrush.

Efficient Plaque Removal:

  • Electric toothbrushes excel at removing plaque with oscillating or sonic technology. The rapid movements and rotations of the brush head can reach areas that may be challenging for a manual toothbrush, ensuring a more thorough clean. This efficiency is especially beneficial in preventing cavities and gum disease. In a study done, plaque was reduced by 21 percent, and gingivitis was reduced by 11 percent!

Built-in Timers for Optimal Brushing:

  • One of the common pitfalls of manual brushing is the tendency to cut short the recommended two minutes. Electric toothbrushes often come with built-in timers, ensuring users brush their teeth for the appropriate duration. Consistently hitting the two-minute mark enhances the effectiveness of the brushing process, leading to better oral health outcomes.

Gentle on Gums with Pressure Sensors:

  • Overzealous brushing can harm your gums and enamel. Many electric toothbrushes are equipped with pressure sensors that alert users when they apply too much force. This feature prevents excessive pressure, safeguarding the delicate gum tissue and promoting a gentler, yet effective, brushing technique.

Customizable Brushing Experience:

  • Electric toothbrushes offer a range of brush head options, allowing users to customize their brushing experience. Whether you have sensitive teeth, require gum care, or aim for a brighter smile, there’s a brush head designed to meet your specific needs.

Rechargeable and Eco-Friendly:

  • Say goodbye to constantly replacing batteries. Most electric toothbrushes are rechargeable, reducing waste and making them a more eco-friendly option. The convenience of a long-lasting battery life ensures your toothbrush is always ready to deliver its optimal performance.

Ideal for All:

  • Electric toothbrushes cater to a diverse range of users, from children to adults. Kid-friendly designs, vibrant colors, and interactive features make brushing an enjoyable experience for youngsters. Meanwhile, those with mobility issues like arthritis or carpal tunnel can benefit from the assist.

Recommended by Dental Professionals:

  • Dentists often recommend electric toothbrushes due to their proven efficacy in maintaining good oral health. The superior plaque removal capabilities and advanced features contribute to a more comprehensive and effective dental care routine.

Travel-Friendly Options:

  • Traveling with an electric toothbrush is no longer a hassle. Many models come with travel cases, compact designs, and long-lasting battery life, making them the perfect companion for maintaining your oral health on the go.

As we embrace the era of dental innovation, the electric toothbrush stands out as a beacon of superior oral care. From efficient plaque removal to customizable brushing experiences, these modern marvels cater to the diverse needs of users, young and old. Making the switch to an electric toothbrush is not just an investment in oral health; it’s a commitment to a brighter, healthier smile that stands the test of time. So, join the smile revolution and let the benefits of an electric toothbrush illuminate your dental care routine.

Powered/electric toothbrushes compared to manual toothbrushes for maintaining oral health. (n.d.). Www.cochrane.org. https://www.cochrane.org/CD002281/ORAL_poweredelectric-toothbrushes-compared-to-manual-toothbrushes-for-maintaining-oral-health

Written by: Dezera Firouzi
Year in Review: Celebrating Dental Achievements in 2023

Year in Review: Celebrating Dental Achievements in 2023

2023 has been a successful year for the dental industry. We are celebrating and highlighting some of the biggest achievements for you. Read on to take a look at some of the most significant dental achievements:

3D Printing
When 3D printing first started growing a few years ago, it seemed unknown just how much it would effect the dental industry. 3D printing advances have made dental restoration even more precise to fit each unique patient. This also means the process of it taking days and weeks, is cut down to just hours.

Preventive Care
Preventative care is now accounting for up to 40% of procedures. The industry is focusing and pushing taking care of your teeth now, so you won’t need bigger procedures later.

Laser Dentistry
Laser dentistry is a non-invasive precise treatment that can help remove damaged tissue. It’s used to help an array of dental problems like gum disease, lesions, tooth decay, or lesions. This year alone, a significant amount of technological advances have been made in the laser industry, making them more accurate.

Dental Specialty Associates’ achievements:

We’ve celebrated 16 years in business! Dental Specialty Associates opened in 2007 as an answer to people who are tired of hoping from dentist to dentist. Since then we’ve grown from just our Gilbert location, to opening a Phoenix location.

Here are our big service numbers for the year:
-Over 300 dentures were provided.
-Over 750 crowns placed.
-Almost 100 dental implants were placed. 

It has been a great year for dental, and we at Dental Specialty Associates appreciate you being apart of it for the ride, and are excited to see where next year’s advances will take us. Thank you for your continued loyalty and support. Remember to follow us on social media for real time updates on what’s going on around the office.

 

Sources:
https://www.cetas-healthcare.com/2023-dental-industry-trends-report/

https://www.dentistrytoday.com/top-5-technological-innovations-in-dentistry-in-2023/#:~:text=In%202023%2C%20we%20have%20seen,care%20more%20comfortable%20and%20convenient.

 

 

Dental Specialty Associates Dentist Gilbert Phoenix Arizona
Our highly trained teams specialize in all areas of dental care treatments, from general dentistry to cosmetic and surgical procedures.
Greater Phoenix Chamber - Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons

Locations

Dental Specialty Associates of Gilbert

2730 S Val Vista Dr
BLDG 11, # 164
Gilbert, AZ 85295

gilbert@dsaofaz.com
(480) 633-9977

Dental Specialty Associates of Phoenix

4216 N 44th St
Phoenix, AZ 85018

phx@dsaofaz.com
(602) 795-5995

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