NH Dental Care» Teeth And Gums

General Dentistry in New Hampshire

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 01:18:42 +0000

General dentistry is a branch of medicine concerned with the overall health mouth, especially of the teeth and gums. Most people consider visits to the dentist an important factor in their overall health. Check ups, hygienic cleaning and annual inspections are usually a typical part of most people’s lives. Cosmetic dentists are fully capable of practicing general dentistry and provide the added benefit of providing care with aesthetic appearances in mind.

Cosmetic procedures cannot be performed until necessary general dentistry procedures are complete and your mouth gets a clean bill of health. Instead of going to a traditional dentist for basic dental care and then finding a qualified cosmetic dentist, you can get all your care at one place. Cosmetic dentists are dental specialists that have up to four additional years of training for cosmetic procedures. Since their overarching goal is to provide you with a brilliant new smile, all the care you receive is aimed at achieving that objective.

Taking Care of Basic Oral Hygiene

Cosmetic dentists are fully capable of helping you maintain and treat basic dental problems including:

Cavities
Gum disease
Cleaning

After annual check-ups, the most common general dentistry procedures are concerned with treating dental caries, or cavities. Cavities develop when enamel becomes compromised due to inconsistent brushing and oral hygiene practices. Many traditional dentists still fill cavities with metal fillings, but cosmetic dentists usually have the resources to provide non-metal fillings that are just as effective and can be matched to the color of your teeth to maintain a brighter and whiter smile.

Improper brushing and poor dental hygiene also lead to gum disease, or gingivitis and eventually periodontitis. Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissue that supports your teeth. Gum disease first grows in the sulcus, the v-shaped crevice between the teeth and the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, which actually infects the bone of the tooth. Treatment of gum disease is another general dentistry practice performed by cosmetic dentists.

Other General Dentistry Procedures

Missing teeth, whether due to trauma or untreated disease, can be replaced with a variety of dental implants. Traditional dentists frequently have to send out the tooth impressions to outside laboratories to be fabricated. Cosmetic dentists, especially those trained at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute have their appliances made at LVI approved labs, providing the best quality available and improving the turn around time for dental implants, crowns, and other dental appliances.

Sedation Dentistry

Fear of pain or of dentists offices in general often keep people who need general dentistry care from the office. Few people like to wait in a busy dentist’s office and wait patiently for their turn to sit in an uncomfortable chair for generally unpleasant cleanings and tooth repair. Sedation dentistry is a new technique employed by many cosmetic dentists to help alleviate the pain and therefore the fear of going to the dentist for necessary care.

One of the added benefits of finding a cosmetic dentist is the fact that he or she can create an overall plan for your oral treatment. All of your dental care takes your appearance into consideration. A cosmetic dentist can see to all your general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry needs.

Please visit www.drpaulmathew.com for cosmetic and general dentistry in Salem.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/dental-care-articles/general-dentistry-in-new-hampshire-1156999.html

Sedation Dentistry

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 06:25:08 +0000

Nobody really enjoys going to the dentist, but for some people, the thought of a visit to the dentist causes such intense panic that they resign themselves to avoiding the dentist completely. If an overwhelming fear has been causing you to put off your next visit to the dentist, then you might want to consider sedation dentistry.

It can be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of a person’s fear of the dentist, but there are certainly a number of disconcerting factors involved with even a standard cleaning. From bad tastes and smells to the sensation of being poked and prodded in the mouth, the idea of avoiding the dentist altogether is an understandable escape. Some people are just plain afraid of any and all medical procedures, including those that are completely routine. Other people have sensitive teeth and gums, which can make even a regular dental cleaning uncomfortable bordering on painful. There are also those people who have naturally sensitive gag reflexes and tend to feel like they’re choking or can’t breathe as long as their mouths are being worked on.

While there are plenty of reasons to submit to the fear and avoid the dentist, that approach will only cause issues in the long run. A dental cleaning is recommended every six months to maintain proper oral hygiene. The longer you put off going to the dentist, the more tooth-related issues you are bound to have down the road. It’s a good thing that sedation dentistry is becoming increasingly popular – and available – by the day.

The idea behind sedation dentistry is that instead of working to tackle your fear of the dentist, you can simply eliminate it courtesy of a nice dose of your favorite anti-anxiety drug such as Halcion or Valium. When used as prescribed, these medications are quite safe and do not cause any long-term effects.

With sedation dentistry, a pill is taken about an hour or two before the dental appointment so that by the time you’re ready to head out, you’ll be too relaxed – and loopy – to panic your way into canceling. Since this initial dose is likely to cause extreme grogginess, you’ll need to ask a friend or family member to transport you to and from the dentist’s office. Additional anti-anxiety medication may then be administered at the dentist’s office on as-needed basis. Your dentist will make that determination based on a number of factors, including how well the initial dose has kicked in and how long the appointment is expected to take.

During sedation dentistry, the patient retains consciousness throughout the process. Although sedation dentistry is often referred to as sleep dentistry, the patients involved are actually not asleep, but rather in extremely relaxed, sedated states. They are still able to respond to questions and instructions from the dentist, though they have little to no recollection of the procedure once it is over.

Thanks to the wonders of sedation dentistry, many formerly dental phobic patients are now walking around with healthy mouths and clean smiles, and many current patients are slowly coming around to embrace the option of an experience at the dentist’s office that is not only painless, but rather forgettable.

Of course, not everyone is a fan of this latest craze. Some medical professionals are opposed to the idea of sedation dentistry, warning that dentists are too quick to administer drugs and that patients can easily become over-sedated.

Because patients metabolize pills differently, the effects of the initial dosage are not always immediately recognized. When a patient arrives for an appointment, it might appear as though he is not adequately sedated, and the dentist might elect to increase the dosage prior to the procedure. However, some dentists are too quick to make this determination and do not allow enough time for the initial dose to kick in. The result is an over-sedated patient that must be closely watched. However, as part of the sedation dentistry process, a trained professional is always on-hand to monitor the patient’s vital signs throughout the sedation period. For your own comfort, do not be afraid to ask your dentist about his training and experience in sedation dentistry.

Another thing to be aware of is that sleep dentistry can come with a cost. While most dental insurance companies will cover the dental work itself, they can be rather stingy when it comes to the sedation aspect since technically-speaking, it is rarely medically necessary. While most dentists will work with you to keep sedation costs to a minimum, remember that you are not only paying for the drugs themselves, but for the cost of patient monitoring throughout the procedure. However, given the importance of proper dental care and the discomfort that often comes with it, can you really put a price tag on peace of mind?

Maurie Backman is a writer for Yodle, a business directory and online advertising company. Find a dentist or more dental care articles at Yodle Consumer Guide. Sedation Dentistry

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/dental-care-articles/sedation-dentistry-1154318.html

What is the Procedure for Porcelain Veneers?

Sat, 22 Aug 2009 19:04:30 +0000

Porcelain veneers are essentially the most popular type of veneer, offering a stronger and more durable alternative to their counterparts and also provide a characteristically natural and translucent appearance.

The procedure for obtaining dental porcelain veneers is simply a relatively simple one, and one which we can offer to provide you with, in the greatest degree of care and comfort.

The consultation and examination is the first step so that we can accurately assess your needs and concerns. At this stage we have the opportunity to also explain the procedure, costs of porcelain veneers and treatment.

Once initial assessment is complete, the teeth in question are prepared with the surface area reshaped to accommodate the cosmetic porcelain veneers. A tiny part of the teeth’s surface is then shaved off. During this part of the procedure your teeth and gums will be numb using a local anaesthetic so you don’t feel anything.

Next a mould of your teeth is taken, using special dental putty that is placed on a tray and positioned against your teeth to take an imprint of your existing dental structure. This mould is then sent to a dental laboratory to be used to cast an accurate model of your teeth. The mould is used as a guide to fabricate your veneers and this process can take up to three weeks.

We may fit you with some temporary veneers to protect your teeth depending on the individual need during this period.

We will then fit your new veneers to your teeth, testing the look, we may need to trim or adjust the veneers. Your teeth will then be thoroughly cleaned and the front surface will be roughened for the dental gel to cement to.

The veneers are then cemented into place. A special curing light is used to activate the dental cement to permanently bond the veneers to your teeth. Any excess cement is then trimmed away leaving a polished and beautiful smile.

Porcelain veneers cost is relative to their effect and will usually last to up to ten years and more, but to maximise the longevity of your both your veneers and teeth, regular oral hygiene should be maintained and standard dental checkups with us included in your routine.

Dr Jim Ironside is a dentist based in Sydney with a special interest in cosmetic dentistry. For more information please visit http://www.cosmeticdentistsydney.com

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/dental-care-articles/what-is-the-procedure-for-porcelain-veneers-1142526.html

Reinstate The Function Of Your Mouth With Dental Implants

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 01:40:05 +0000

The ability to eat the foods we enjoy most as well as speaking, smiling and laughing without restriction and with confidence is something that most of us take for granted. However, for many people, as the move through life and into more mature age, the ability to function normally and maintain a normal sense of pride is greatly inhibited by the loss of one or more of their teeth.

Dental Implants are a permanent, natural looking solution, regarded as one of the most advanced methods in restorative dentistry used to replace missing teeth. They offer a durable, effective and natural solution to missing teeth and significantly increase stability within the mouth, enhancing biting pressure, reducing sores and increasing confidence. Dental Implants surgery provides a permanent solution that can recapture the aesthetic and functional nature of your smile.

Through the specialist treatment, offered by your modern Prosthodontist, you can now receive help through dental tooth implants procedures, which can effectively reinstate the functionality of your mouth, so that you need not miss out on the things that you have come to love most in your life – like food and drink that can prove hard to consume without full tooth function.

Areas left exposed by tooth loss are inevitably more prone to trauma, pain and infection, but the loss of support to the remaining teeth and gums can be equally damaging.

As the absent tooth serves as a stabilising force for its surrounding counterparts, once it is removed that strength is removed and, over time, a gradual shift and weakening in the overall structure of the mouth occurs. The knock on effect of this can be a loss of support to the facial muscles and the gradual sagging of features.

Made from a combination of biocompatible materials, dental implants combine the strength of a titanium ‘anchor’ which is attached to the underlying jawbone. In comparison to alternative treatments, such as removable dentures and provides a much more natural and durable substitution and can be implemented as full dental implants or in conjunction with other treatments.

The end result is the effective and permanent dental restoration of your natural teeth and an increased ability to embrace life with confidence in your happy and healthy smile.

Dr Jim Ironside is a Prosthodontist dentist based in Sydney with a special interest in dental implants. For more information please visit http://www.cosmeticdentistsydney.com

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/dental-care-articles/reinstate-the-function-of-your-mouth-with-dental-implants-1142542.html

The Importance of Brushing and Flossing Each Day

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 20:29:00 +0000

Thorough, regular dental hygiene is vital to maintaining overall oral health. Even if you dutifully see your general dentist every six months, you’re still likely to have problems with your teeth and gums if you don’t brush and floss on a daily basis.

Our teeth are subjected to a variety of stresses every day, from the stress of chewing to exposure to various acids and other components of foods and beverages that can stain the teeth or even wear down the enamel. In addition, whenever you eat small pieces of food are trapped in the spaces between the teeth. These food fragments attract bacteria, which turn them into highly acidic plaque. If this plaque is allowed to collect, the acid eats through your teeth, causing tooth decay, or cavities.

Brushing your teeth every day, preferably twice a day, is the best way to eliminate plaque and reduce the likelihood of severe tooth decay. Brushing cleans away the left-behind food particles, as well as the bacteria and plaque that collect around them. Brushing also stimulates your gums, keeping them strong and healthy.

Flossing is equally important to your daily dental hygiene routine. While brushing your teeth eliminates a high percentage of plaque and food particles, the brush can’t reach efficiently between the teeth or under the edges of the gums to thoroughly clean the entire tooth. Floss accomplishes this, loosening food particles between the teeth in nooks and crannies brushes don’t clean. Flossing is even more important to the health of your gums, and is a powerful weapon in the battle against gingivitis.

Proper technique in brushing and flossing is also important. Brushing at the correct speed and angle, and for the right amount of time, improves the effectiveness of your cleaning efforts. Using floss correctly also makes it more efficient, as well as preventing inadvertent damage to the gums.

Regular visits to a general dentist are also important to your overall oral hygiene. You should see your regular dentist every six months for cleaning, as well as any recommended X-rays or other treatments.

If you are in the Mesa, Phoenix, or Scottsdale, Arizona area, please contact Scott LeSueur, D.D.S. and Charles Dodaro, D.D.S. for more information on general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and neuromuscular dentistry.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/dental-care-articles/the-importance-of-brushing-and-flossing-each-day-987028.html

New Study Finds Drinking Green Tea Promotes Healthy Teeth and Gums

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 11:58:50 +0000

Beverly Hills, California – June 18, 2009 – A healthy and beautiful smile is not just a product of cosmetic dentistry but also of good health and smart nutritional choices.
In recent years, green tea has been validated by multiple research studies for its effect on improving weight loss, and reducing the incidence of heart disease and cancer. New research published in March 2009 suggests a connection between the consumption of green tea and a reduction in the incidence of periodontal disease.

The study was published in the Journal of Periodontology. For the study, 940 men between the ages of 49 and 59 were included and their green tea drinking habits were compared. Those who drank green tea regularly had healthier teeth than those who drank less green tea. The comparisons in dental health were made using three factors normally associated with periodontal disease, including the bleeding of the gum tissue, the depth of the periodontal pocket, and the loss of attachment of gum tissue. The researchers discovered a correlation per glass of green tea consumed and a reduction in those three indicators.

Researchers believe the connection stems from the presence of catechin in green tea. Catechin is an antioxidant which has been shown to fight inflammation in the body. Periodontal disease is a condition marked by ongoing inflammation of the gums which causes the deterioration of gum tissue and supporting bones. By reducing this inflammation, the catechin from the tea may be promoting healthier teeth and gums.

Although not documented in the study, green tea is known to provide other dental benefits. Polyphenols in the tea stop plaque from sticking to the enamel of the teeth thus reducing the risk of cavity development. Green tea can also prevent the growth of bacteria in the mouth which cause bad breath. Some green teas also include fluoride which strengthens teeth.

The American Academy of Periodontology has endorsed many studies suggesting that maintaining healthy gums is critical to the overall health of the body. “The mouth is a mirror providing a reflection of conditions affecting the entire body,” says Dr. Farnoosh. “While green tea is not be a replacement for regular brushing and dental care, it can serve as a supplement to promoting proper periodontal health.”

Dr. Farnoosh is a leader in the field of cosmetic dentistry and aesthetic periodontal surgery. In addition to his 25 years of experience in private dental practice he has been teaching for more than two decades at the University of Southern California. Because of his credentials, he is considered by the Consumer Research Council (CRC), an independent research organization, to be one of “America’s Top Dentists”. His innovative research and pioneering procedures have earned him the recognition of the International Association of Dental Research and the American Academy of Periodontology.

About The Total Smile
Located in Los Angeles, California, The Total Smile is a full-service dental office specializing in advanced cosmetic dentistry including dental implants, lip lowering surgery for correcting gummy smiles, gum lightening for the treatment of discolored gums, bone grafting, gum grafting, and the conservative treatment of periodontal disease. Fly-in services are also available for out-of-town patients.

Contact:
The Total Smile
8920 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 517
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
310-657-0503
http://www.thetotalsmile.com

BigNews.biz
16 Heath Place Garden City NY 11530-3004
516-578-1386
http://www.BigNews.biz

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/dental-care-articles/new-study-finds-drinking-green-tea-promotes-healthy-teeth-and-gums-982715.html

New Study Finds Drinking Green Tea Promotes Healthy Teeth and Gums

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 11:58:48 +0000

Contact:
The Total Smile
8920 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 517
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
310-657-0503
http://www.thetotalsmile.com

BigNews.biz
16 Heath Place Garden City NY 11530-3004
516-578-1386
http://www.BigNews.biz

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/dental-care-articles/new-study-finds-drinking-green-tea-promotes-healthy-teeth-and-gums-982724.html

New Study Finds Drinking Green Tea Promotes Healthy Teeth and Gums

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 11:58:46 +0000

Contact:
The Total Smile
8920 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 517
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
310-657-0503
http://www.thetotalsmile.com

BigNews.biz
16 Heath Place Garden City NY 11530-3004
516-578-1386
http://www.BigNews.biz

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/dental-care-articles/new-study-finds-drinking-green-tea-promotes-healthy-teeth-and-gums-982726.html

Dental Veneers vs. Dental Crowns

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 13:48:13 +0000

A person’s smile can be a focal point of the face, giving off a positive or negative impression to others. When teeth have imperfections, they not only look less than pleasing, they can also create an unhealthy environment for the other surrounding teeth. Cosmetic dentists can help patients achieve a healthy smile by implementing dental veneers or dental crowns.

While these two dental techniques are often used to correct similar dental issues, patients should be fully aware of how these two procedures differ as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each. A knowledgeable and skilled cosmetic dentist will be able to help patients determine which procedure is right for each unique situation.

What are veneers?

Dental veneers are thin shells of ceramic porcelain or composite resin that are attached to the front of teeth to change the shape, length, color or size of the teeth. Veneers help hide dental issues such as:

Somewhat misaligned teeth
Teeth that have gaps
Chipped or cracked teeth
Uneven teeth surfaces
Stained or discolored teeth
Misshaped teeth
Worn down teeth

What are the advantages of veneers?

Veneers are appropriate for individuals whose teeth and gums are generally healthy but have cosmetic issues. The advantages include:

The color of veneers can be matched to the existing teeth so they blend naturally
Porcelain veneers are stain resistant
Less of the tooth’s enamel must be removed to apply veneers (as opposed to crowns)

What are the disadvantages of veneers?

Veneers are not appropriate for people who have a tendency to grind or clench their teeth because the veneers can crack or chip. Disadvantages include:

Veneers are permanent but may need to be replaced after 5-10 years
Teeth with veneers are still subject to tooth decay

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns, or dental caps, fit over teeth that are in need of severe restoration. Teeth that are extremely weak, cracked, broken, worn down or misshaped can be fixed with crowns. There are a variety of materials used to make crowns, including:

Porcelain
Metal
Porcelain and metal
Ceramic
Resin

What are the advantages of crowns?

There are different advantages of crowns, depending on the type that is used.

Metal crowns require less removal of tooth structure to place the cap
The color of porcelain and ceramic crowns can be matched to the color of the patient’s existing teeth
Porcelain and ceramic crowns are stain resistant
In general, crowns are very durable and help strengthen the underlying weak or damaged tooth

What are the disadvantages crowns?

Again, the disadvantages depend on the type of crown.

Metal crowns are more visible and less aesthetically pleasing
Porcelain crowns require more removal of tooth structure to place the cap

Regardless of which technique is used, most patients are happy with the results of dental veneers and crowns. These strong and durable restorations can make people want to smile again.

If you are interested in correcting a problem tooth or an entire mouthful of teeth and want to learn more about dental veneers and crowns, please visit the Colonial Dental Group website. Their highly trained and caring dentists and staff can help you determine the right dental restoration procedure for you in a free dental consultation.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/dental-care-articles/dental-veneers-vs-dental-crowns-980195.html

Best Teeth Whitening Options – 3 Easy Steps to a Brighter Smile

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 03:15:07 +0000

There are so many different teeth whitening options and products available it’s easy to become overwhelmed with the whole process. All you want is a brighter smile and instead you get ambushed with hundreds of systems claiming to be “the next big thing” in teeth whitening.

Well you can forget all those. This article will explain the three easy steps to achieving a brighter smile. Not only will they give you noticeable results in a reasonable amount of time, but they will help to maintain the overall health of your teeth and gums. After all, what good are white teeth if they’re falling out of your mouth?

1. Develop sound oral hygiene habits

Daily brushing and flossing is as important to maintaining a bright smile as any laser treatment your dentist can give you. Brushing and flossing removes food and plaque from your teeth and gums. This food is the same stuff that causes stains, which cause discoloration, which makes you want your teeth whitened. Stop this cycle before it begins and take care of your teeth regularly. Not only will you have a sparkling smile, but you won’t be stuck eating through a straw when you’re sixty.

2. Incorporate teeth whitening peroxide periodically

Brushing with a small amount of hydrogen peroxide can do wonders for helping you whiten your teeth. Be sure not to swallow any of it, because swallowing too much can be harmful. It’s also a good idea to only use it for a week or two at a time, then take a break, because prolonged use can cause problems. However, using it sporadically to brush or gargle can get you off to a great start.

3. Use Crest White Strips 10 or 14 day kit

I usually don’t like promoting a specific product since they all work differently for different people, but I’ve used Crest White Strips numerous times, in combination with steps 1 and 2 and have been extremely pleased with the results. Some people experience mild pain or sensitivity with White Strips, so if this occurs don’t panic. Just stop applying the treatment for a day or two until the sensitivity goes away and then give them another try. In some cases, the strips continue to cause discomfort in which case it may be better to stop altogether and try a different product.

Good Luck!

That’s all there is to it. Develop solid hygiene habits and test some products that have gotten solid customer reviews until you find one you like. Then from there it’s just a matter of allowing the product to do its job. With the right combination of methods you’ll have a brighter smile in no time.

To learn more about natural teeth whitening and how you can get the best teeth possible, be sure to visit Best Teeth Whitening Options.

RJ Licata is a freelance writer and internet marketer. More on RJ’s current projects can be found at RJLicata.com.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/dental-care-articles/best-teeth-whitening-options-3-easy-steps-to-a-brighter-smile-978174.html