Pediatric dentist Douglas B. Keck, D.M.D., M.S. tells when, and how, to start using toothpaste with young children.
Friday, February 28, 2014
When to Start Using Toothpaste
Pediatric dentist Douglas B. Keck, D.M.D., M.S. tells when, and how, to start using toothpaste with young children.
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
The Importance of Baby Teeth
Pediatric dentist Douglas B. Keck, D.M.D., explains the important role of caring for baby teeth.
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Benefits of Sugarless Gum
Saliva is your body's natural defense against cavities. Because sugarless gum stimulates saliva production without providing "food" for the acid-producing bacteria in your mouth, it is an easy way to prevent tooth decay. Find out more about how sugarless gum and other simple preventative measures can help you maintain good oral health.
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Be Sure To Ask These Questions Before Getting Veneers
You are contemplating veneers. Great! The smile of your dreams is
only a few short weeks away. You have already researched local dentists
and have scheduled a consultation with a local dentist to gain more
information and begin the process of your smile transformation.
Although veneers have become a common cosmetic procedure, it is important to ask the right questions and have all your concerns addressed before the process begins. Remember, that there is no such thing as a dumb or bad question. If you are unsure of something, be sure to ask. Unfortunately, some questions seem to slip from people's memory when they meet their dentist for a consultation. Below are a few key points to ask before committing to your smile makeover.
1.) Ask to see previous work carried out by your dentist, allowing you to vividly see the type of work performed by the dentist. When viewing these images, you should be able to see the complexity of each case, paying particular attention to how each smile is unique and beautiful. If you notice that many of the ending results are exactly the same, you may want to ask the dentist how he or she can make your smile unique to you.
2.) Ask about any hidden costs. Does the quote definitely cover everything? Sometimes dentists may decide to charge you for additional work, giving you unexpected costs. Asking beforehand ensures that you know exactly what you are expected to pay before beginning the process. Also ask if there are any incentives for paying in-full, early, or different payment plan options.
3.) Ask if the work is guaranteed. If so, for how long? Get it in writing. If a veneer breaks in the guaranteed time, are you given a replacement veneer for free? Ask also if you get a discount on replacements after the guarantee is up- get that in writing too.
4.) Tell the dentist about any known dental issues; including, sensitivity, grinding, clenching, etc. These issues may affect whether you should get veneers, since teeth grinders are typically not good candidates for veneers since they are at higher risk for damaging them.
5.) If you have any issues like cavities or gum problems, the dentist should 100% fix these before fitting new veneers as this will only mask the problem. Since these underlying problems are not fixed, you may have more costs and pain in the long run.
6.) If you don't like needles or have dental anxiety, ask what other kinds of sedation are offered.
7.) Ask how long you need to wait between the temporary and final veneers.
These are just a few of the many questions that you should consider before going through with the veneers process. Remember you should be comfortable that you are choosing the right dentist for your needs. No question is a bad question when getting a smile make-over. Be sure that they are answered and that you are completely aware of what to expect before, during, and after the process.
Although veneers have become a common cosmetic procedure, it is important to ask the right questions and have all your concerns addressed before the process begins. Remember, that there is no such thing as a dumb or bad question. If you are unsure of something, be sure to ask. Unfortunately, some questions seem to slip from people's memory when they meet their dentist for a consultation. Below are a few key points to ask before committing to your smile makeover.
1.) Ask to see previous work carried out by your dentist, allowing you to vividly see the type of work performed by the dentist. When viewing these images, you should be able to see the complexity of each case, paying particular attention to how each smile is unique and beautiful. If you notice that many of the ending results are exactly the same, you may want to ask the dentist how he or she can make your smile unique to you.
2.) Ask about any hidden costs. Does the quote definitely cover everything? Sometimes dentists may decide to charge you for additional work, giving you unexpected costs. Asking beforehand ensures that you know exactly what you are expected to pay before beginning the process. Also ask if there are any incentives for paying in-full, early, or different payment plan options.
3.) Ask if the work is guaranteed. If so, for how long? Get it in writing. If a veneer breaks in the guaranteed time, are you given a replacement veneer for free? Ask also if you get a discount on replacements after the guarantee is up- get that in writing too.
4.) Tell the dentist about any known dental issues; including, sensitivity, grinding, clenching, etc. These issues may affect whether you should get veneers, since teeth grinders are typically not good candidates for veneers since they are at higher risk for damaging them.
5.) If you have any issues like cavities or gum problems, the dentist should 100% fix these before fitting new veneers as this will only mask the problem. Since these underlying problems are not fixed, you may have more costs and pain in the long run.
6.) If you don't like needles or have dental anxiety, ask what other kinds of sedation are offered.
7.) Ask how long you need to wait between the temporary and final veneers.
These are just a few of the many questions that you should consider before going through with the veneers process. Remember you should be comfortable that you are choosing the right dentist for your needs. No question is a bad question when getting a smile make-over. Be sure that they are answered and that you are completely aware of what to expect before, during, and after the process.
Jon Frankel, DDS is a general and cosmetic dentist in Toledo, Ohio. He specializes in cosmetic dentistry and enjoys creating new, beautiful, unique smiles. To learn more about Dr. Frankel, veneers, or other options available at Frankel Dentistry, please visit his website at http://www.jonfrankeldentistry.com and be sure to "like" him on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/jonfrankeldentistry
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Girls' Sports Injuries of the Mouth
The rise of girls participating in sports such as basketball, volleyball or soccer, has led to an increase in sport related injuries including injuries to the mouth. Find out how mouth guards can help to protect your beautiful smile and prevent mouth injuries such as broken teeth, injury to the lips, tongue or jaw.
Thursday, February 13, 2014
The Best Way to Treat Gingivitis
Periodontal disease is a term that is used to describe a range of
conditions that are caused due to bacterial infections. These diseases
can lead to destruction of the tissue and bone that holds teeth in
place. Gingivitis is the basic kind of periodontal disease.
Causes of Gingivitis
It is typically a result of bad oral hygiene, which in turn leads to plaque buildup. There are certain other factors that can also lead to gingivitis, such as aging, smoking and diabetes. In some cases, it can also be a result of genetic factors.
Pregnancy, stress, certain medication and substance abuse can also cause this condition. Dental plaque contains bacteria that cause irritation in the gums. If left untreated or unattended, this results in infection. The natural immune system tries to fight against the infection and that is when the gums get inflamed. Typically, this disease does not cause the person any discomfort or pain.
The Symptoms
This is exactly why it is so easy for a person to overlook the condition. Since there is no pain or discomfort, you do not realize that the condition exists and you do not get it treated on time. The basic symptoms of gingivitis are swollen gums that tend to bleed easily when you eat something hard or even when you brush or floss your teeth. In cases where the infection has set in very strongly, the gums might also start separating very slowly. If this condition is left untreated, it will eventually spread to the base and the roots of teeth. The plaque that lines the gums and that has now spread to the roots of the teeth starts getting infected. This leads to bleeding which is caused by a bacterial infection.
Regular Check-ups
It is important to get a regular dental check-up even if there is no specific complaint or condition that you are suffering from. These are preventive check-ups. It gives the dentist a chance to see if there is any plaque buildup. He/she will then ensure that it is cleaned out, which will arrest the spread of the infection in the mouth. In effect, it is prevention of gingivitis. The dentist will also prescribe certain antibiotic mouthwashes that have to be used on a regular basis. You will also be asked to come in for a check-up after a few months. In most cases, it is possible to prevent it by regular brushing and flossing after a meal. If illness is the cause of your gingivitis, you will have to see the dentist to get it treated in time.
Causes of Gingivitis
It is typically a result of bad oral hygiene, which in turn leads to plaque buildup. There are certain other factors that can also lead to gingivitis, such as aging, smoking and diabetes. In some cases, it can also be a result of genetic factors.
Pregnancy, stress, certain medication and substance abuse can also cause this condition. Dental plaque contains bacteria that cause irritation in the gums. If left untreated or unattended, this results in infection. The natural immune system tries to fight against the infection and that is when the gums get inflamed. Typically, this disease does not cause the person any discomfort or pain.
The Symptoms
This is exactly why it is so easy for a person to overlook the condition. Since there is no pain or discomfort, you do not realize that the condition exists and you do not get it treated on time. The basic symptoms of gingivitis are swollen gums that tend to bleed easily when you eat something hard or even when you brush or floss your teeth. In cases where the infection has set in very strongly, the gums might also start separating very slowly. If this condition is left untreated, it will eventually spread to the base and the roots of teeth. The plaque that lines the gums and that has now spread to the roots of the teeth starts getting infected. This leads to bleeding which is caused by a bacterial infection.
Regular Check-ups
It is important to get a regular dental check-up even if there is no specific complaint or condition that you are suffering from. These are preventive check-ups. It gives the dentist a chance to see if there is any plaque buildup. He/she will then ensure that it is cleaned out, which will arrest the spread of the infection in the mouth. In effect, it is prevention of gingivitis. The dentist will also prescribe certain antibiotic mouthwashes that have to be used on a regular basis. You will also be asked to come in for a check-up after a few months. In most cases, it is possible to prevent it by regular brushing and flossing after a meal. If illness is the cause of your gingivitis, you will have to see the dentist to get it treated in time.
Midtown Dental has the best dentists who will be able to treat gingivitis. It is best to get your teeth checked by them every 6 months. Also, check out their new page on The Best Way to Deal with Gingivitis.
Monday, February 10, 2014
How Often Should a Senior Citizen Go to the Dentist?
Because people are keeping their teeth longer than ever, it's more important than ever for seniors to practice good oral hygiene and schedule dental check-ups. Learn what you—and your dentist—can do to ensure you keep your smile for a lifetime.
Friday, February 7, 2014
5 Reasons Regular Dental Check-Ups Are Important
Many of my new patients are people who have not been to a dentist
in years. Deep down they understand that going to the dentist is
important, but because of financial reasons or other anxieties, they
have put their dental health on the back burner.
Below are five reason why visiting your dentist twice a year is important not only to your oral but also your overall health. There are many links between gum disease and other health problems like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Therefore, routine dental visits are great ways to help increase your overall health. Don't neglect your dental visits because they can help with not only these five concerns but much more.
1.) Catch the small things before they become big problems. There are many reasons why dental checkups are so important. However, probably the most important reason is that dental checkups allow you to be aware of the small problems in your mouth and have the ability to fix them before you need expensive and invasive procedures, like a root canal.
2.) Fillings have a life expectancy. Fillings are not permanent structures, and often times need to be replaced every few years in order to ensure the health of your tooth. However, with proper hygiene, like brushing and flossing, you will have less tooth decay. With less decay, your fillings may last longer. At every dental visit, dentists often check the health of your fillings, allowing you to be confident that your teeth are healthy and strong.
3.) No toothache does not mean no cavity. Just because your teeth don't hurt, doesn't mean that cavities are absent. Mild tooth decay doesn't have many symptoms and can often go undetected for a long period of time. by visiting the dentist twice a year, we are able to detect all problem areas and treat them quickly.
4.) Gingivitis is curable. During routine checkups, the hygienist and dentist will check for gum disease. If you have gingivitis, it is curable with proper oral hygiene and dental visits. However, the minute you start slacking on this routine, the more likely the gingivitis will return or develop into the more problematic, periodontal disease.
5.) Dental teams are here to educate. If you need dental pointers or other questions answered, a routine cleaning is the perfect time to ask. Many dentists build into their missions the importance of patient education. There is no dumb question when it comes to your dental health.
Again, there are many reasons why you should visit your dentist twice a year. What I have listed here are just a few of the incentives to make sure your smile is healthy as possible. Don't neglect the importance of these visits, and if you haven't seen a dentist in a while, call and schedule an appointment today. Your smile will thank you.
Below are five reason why visiting your dentist twice a year is important not only to your oral but also your overall health. There are many links between gum disease and other health problems like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Therefore, routine dental visits are great ways to help increase your overall health. Don't neglect your dental visits because they can help with not only these five concerns but much more.
1.) Catch the small things before they become big problems. There are many reasons why dental checkups are so important. However, probably the most important reason is that dental checkups allow you to be aware of the small problems in your mouth and have the ability to fix them before you need expensive and invasive procedures, like a root canal.
2.) Fillings have a life expectancy. Fillings are not permanent structures, and often times need to be replaced every few years in order to ensure the health of your tooth. However, with proper hygiene, like brushing and flossing, you will have less tooth decay. With less decay, your fillings may last longer. At every dental visit, dentists often check the health of your fillings, allowing you to be confident that your teeth are healthy and strong.
3.) No toothache does not mean no cavity. Just because your teeth don't hurt, doesn't mean that cavities are absent. Mild tooth decay doesn't have many symptoms and can often go undetected for a long period of time. by visiting the dentist twice a year, we are able to detect all problem areas and treat them quickly.
4.) Gingivitis is curable. During routine checkups, the hygienist and dentist will check for gum disease. If you have gingivitis, it is curable with proper oral hygiene and dental visits. However, the minute you start slacking on this routine, the more likely the gingivitis will return or develop into the more problematic, periodontal disease.
5.) Dental teams are here to educate. If you need dental pointers or other questions answered, a routine cleaning is the perfect time to ask. Many dentists build into their missions the importance of patient education. There is no dumb question when it comes to your dental health.
Again, there are many reasons why you should visit your dentist twice a year. What I have listed here are just a few of the incentives to make sure your smile is healthy as possible. Don't neglect the importance of these visits, and if you haven't seen a dentist in a while, call and schedule an appointment today. Your smile will thank you.
Jon Frankel is a private practice dentist in Toledo, Ohio who specializes in both general and cosmetic dentistry. Visit his website at http://www.jonfrankeldentistry.com
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Considering Veneers? Debunking Myths and Stating the Facts
Are your teeth cracked? Misshaped? Stained? Crooked? When you
look in the mirror, do you wish you had a dazzling, white Hollywood
smile? One of the easiest ways to help make your smile beautiful is by
getting veneers.
First developed in the 1930's for Hollywood stars, allowing them to immediately change the appearance of their teeth, veneers are beautifully crafted, thin porcelain "shells" that are artistically placed over your natural teeth. Unlike braces or other orthodontics, veneers are placed within three short visits, creating instant results for a gorgeous smile.
Due to advancements in technology, veneers are available to everyone who wants beautiful smile. Over the last 30 years, veneers have gained in popularity. With this increase in popularity, many myths have been spread about the procedure.
This article will debunk those myths, giving you the facts to have you make an informed decision to achieve the smile that you have always wanted.
MYTH: They are expensive
FACT: Depending on someone's income, this may be true. And unfortunately, most insurance policies do not cover cosmetic procedures, such as veneers. Typically, veneers cost roughly $1000-$3000 per tooth; therefore, the cost ranges from how many teeth you wish to have veneered.
Most dentists also offer additional ways to pay for this procedure, like care credit or additionally discounts when they are paid in full. Be sure to ask your dentist about their financing options. You may be surprised that affording veneers may be easier for you than you originally thought.
MYTH: My teeth will be more sensitive
FACT: Your teeth should not be more sensitive once the permanent veneers are placed. Unfortunately, there may be a short period of time where your teeth experience sensitivity. This time is while you are wearing the temporary veneers while the permanent ones are being created. This process usually takes one week. The sensitive feeling will be eliminated once the permanent veneer is placed.
MYTH: The color looks unnatural
FACT: Everyone wants their teeth whiter. In fact, over the last 20 years, people have craved white teeth to the point that the color wheel had to be updated. However, others don't want their teeth to be so white that they appear unnatural, especially if he or she is only placing veneers on a few teeth and would like their smile to match the color of their original teeth. Therefore, your dentist will be happy to ensure that your veneers are whatever color you want them to be. Remember that it is important that this decision is up to the patient and your dentist is there to help make your smile as natural looking and beautiful as possible.
MYTH: People will know that I have veneers and it is not my natural smile
FACT: Today, technology has had a great impact on veneers. Because of this, veneers fit seamlessly with the rest of your smile, making your smile appear natural and beautiful. I have had patients tell me that no one knew that they had veneers until they told someone.
MYTH: The entire tooth has to be cut down
FACT: Yes, part of the tooth must be cut down in order for the veneer to fit seamlessly into your smile. The amount of the tooth being shaved, however, is often exaggerated. If this step of the process makes you nervous, ask about no-prep veneers, like Lumineers. It is important to note, that Lumineers often feel bulky on the teeth, which is why regular veneers are often preferred.
MYTH: The porcelain is fragile
FACT: Most people associate the word porcelain with things that are fragile and should be kept out of the hands of children. How can something that must be handled with such care survive in a mouth? It turns out that in most cases porcelain veneers are just as strong as your tooth's enamel, and sometimes even stronger. Think of it in terms of this analogy-we all have windows (made of glass) in our house. This glass withstands all of the elements. However, if something like a baseball from the neighbor flies through the window, the glass will break. The same is true for veneers. Any abnormal abuse and the veneer will be damaged. But remember extra abuse on a regular tooth will also cause many problems like chipping and breaking.
Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to get veneers is completely up to you. With the help of your dentist, you will be able to make a wise, educated decision about the veneers that are right for your smile. Many times, with the help of digital imaging, a dentist will be able create a digital image of what your smile will look like. Don't be scared to ask your dentist the tough questions in order to help you make the decision that is right for your smile.
First developed in the 1930's for Hollywood stars, allowing them to immediately change the appearance of their teeth, veneers are beautifully crafted, thin porcelain "shells" that are artistically placed over your natural teeth. Unlike braces or other orthodontics, veneers are placed within three short visits, creating instant results for a gorgeous smile.
Due to advancements in technology, veneers are available to everyone who wants beautiful smile. Over the last 30 years, veneers have gained in popularity. With this increase in popularity, many myths have been spread about the procedure.
This article will debunk those myths, giving you the facts to have you make an informed decision to achieve the smile that you have always wanted.
MYTH: They are expensive
FACT: Depending on someone's income, this may be true. And unfortunately, most insurance policies do not cover cosmetic procedures, such as veneers. Typically, veneers cost roughly $1000-$3000 per tooth; therefore, the cost ranges from how many teeth you wish to have veneered.
Most dentists also offer additional ways to pay for this procedure, like care credit or additionally discounts when they are paid in full. Be sure to ask your dentist about their financing options. You may be surprised that affording veneers may be easier for you than you originally thought.
MYTH: My teeth will be more sensitive
FACT: Your teeth should not be more sensitive once the permanent veneers are placed. Unfortunately, there may be a short period of time where your teeth experience sensitivity. This time is while you are wearing the temporary veneers while the permanent ones are being created. This process usually takes one week. The sensitive feeling will be eliminated once the permanent veneer is placed.
MYTH: The color looks unnatural
FACT: Everyone wants their teeth whiter. In fact, over the last 20 years, people have craved white teeth to the point that the color wheel had to be updated. However, others don't want their teeth to be so white that they appear unnatural, especially if he or she is only placing veneers on a few teeth and would like their smile to match the color of their original teeth. Therefore, your dentist will be happy to ensure that your veneers are whatever color you want them to be. Remember that it is important that this decision is up to the patient and your dentist is there to help make your smile as natural looking and beautiful as possible.
MYTH: People will know that I have veneers and it is not my natural smile
FACT: Today, technology has had a great impact on veneers. Because of this, veneers fit seamlessly with the rest of your smile, making your smile appear natural and beautiful. I have had patients tell me that no one knew that they had veneers until they told someone.
MYTH: The entire tooth has to be cut down
FACT: Yes, part of the tooth must be cut down in order for the veneer to fit seamlessly into your smile. The amount of the tooth being shaved, however, is often exaggerated. If this step of the process makes you nervous, ask about no-prep veneers, like Lumineers. It is important to note, that Lumineers often feel bulky on the teeth, which is why regular veneers are often preferred.
MYTH: The porcelain is fragile
FACT: Most people associate the word porcelain with things that are fragile and should be kept out of the hands of children. How can something that must be handled with such care survive in a mouth? It turns out that in most cases porcelain veneers are just as strong as your tooth's enamel, and sometimes even stronger. Think of it in terms of this analogy-we all have windows (made of glass) in our house. This glass withstands all of the elements. However, if something like a baseball from the neighbor flies through the window, the glass will break. The same is true for veneers. Any abnormal abuse and the veneer will be damaged. But remember extra abuse on a regular tooth will also cause many problems like chipping and breaking.
Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to get veneers is completely up to you. With the help of your dentist, you will be able to make a wise, educated decision about the veneers that are right for your smile. Many times, with the help of digital imaging, a dentist will be able create a digital image of what your smile will look like. Don't be scared to ask your dentist the tough questions in order to help you make the decision that is right for your smile.
Jon Frankel is a cosmetic and general dentist in Toledo, Ohio. He truly appreciates crafting beautiful smiles with veneers. To learn more about Dr. Frankel and his practice, visit his website at http://www.jonfrankeldentistry.com or read his blog at http://www.jonfrankeldentistry.com/blog
Saturday, February 1, 2014
What Are Bridges?
Your teeth can help you chew, speak and smile. If you're missing one or more teeth you may find these simple actions difficult. Fortunately, missing teeth can be replaced by using a bridge. Bridges can be either fixed or removable. Learn more about the two types of bridges that you can use to replace your missing teeth and have a beautiful smile.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)