WHY MIGHT YOU NEED A TOOTH EXTRACTED?

There are multiple reasons why a patient might need their tooth extracted. You might need the tooth extracted if:

• The tooth is severely decayed
• Advanced gum disease is present
• The tooth is broken in such a way that it cannot be repaired The tooth is poorly positioned in your mouth (impacted)
• To prepare for orthodontic treatment, implants or dentures

The space created by the removal of a tooth can lead to shifting teeth, which can alter your bite alignment and the appearance of your smile. Removing a tooth can also lead to problems with your ability to chew or speak clearly. With this in mind, your dentist will discuss your options if you choose to get the tooth extracted.

DENTAL BRIDGES RESTORE YOUR SMILE!

A dental bridge helps correct tooth loss and prevent the shifting of your teeth by attaching a replacement tooth to the natural teeth on either side. Whether you choose a temporary bridge or a fixed (permanent) bridge, this helps you maintain the alignment of your teeth so you can eat and speak properly.

THE PROCESS OF GETTING A DENTAL BRIDGE

A bridge is a dental prosthesis that spans across an area of your mouth where there are missing teeth. On each end of the bridge is a crown, which caps the teeth on each side of the space being filled by the bridge. An artificial tooth, or multiples if there is more than one missing tooth, will then connect to each crown – filling the gap created by your missing teeth. When you visit your dentist to get a bridge placed, the dentist will first gently prepare the neighboring teeth for beautiful and functional crowns. This will involve some reshaping of those teeth to ensure your new crowns fit securely and can support the bridge. Next, your dentist makes an impression of the missing tooth or teeth and the neighboring teeth. This impression is used to create a bridge that will look and feel more natural. After the bridge has been created in the lab, your dentist will fit it to your mouth and check to make sure your bite alignment is correct and that the bridge is comfortable.

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF DENTAL BRIDGES?

A conventional fixed bridge is the most common type of bridge. For this type, the dentist places a crown the teeth on either side of the gap in your smile. Then a false tooth is placed to “bridge” the gap between teeth. A benefit of this type of bridge is that teeth on either side of the bridge provide support. A cantilever bridge is also a fixed dental bridge. Typically, a 3-unit bridge, this consists of two crowns positioned side by side on the same side of the gap, connected to the false tooth. This type of bridge is best for areas of the mouth not significantly used for chewing or other stressors. A temporary bridge will be placed when you are waiting for a permanent bridge to be made. This temporary bridge is not made of porcelain like the permanent bridge, so it will be less sturdy, but will be easy to remove when you visit to receive your permanent bridge.

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR DENTAL BRIDGES?

Good hygiene habits are very important for patients who are considering a dental bridge, because the supporting teeth of the bridge must be well maintained. If you smoke, have weak supporting teeth, or other periodontal issues, your dentist will most likely explore other options.

RESTORE YOUR SMILE WITH LIFELIKE DENTAL CROWNS

When there’s extensive damage to one of your teeth that seems beyond repair, we can make your smile “like new” with a restorative porcelain or porcelain-on-metal crown. The crowns we place provide a long-term solution for tooth pain and restore the functionality of damaged teeth. 

BENEFITS OF DENTAL CROWNS

Damage to your teeth can result from a variety of factors, such as injury, decay, or normal wear and tear. Patients commonly experience pain in back teeth that have fillings due to cracks in the chewing surface of the tooth. In front teeth, aging fillings can weaken the teeth and cause stains or chips. Crowns utilizing high-grade porcelain, or porcelain bonded to metal, offer renewed strength for the affected tooth. Crowns also serve as the foundation in supporting teeth when patients need bridges for missing teeth. For patients who have previously had root canals, a dental crown can help prevent the tooth from breaking. Additionally, the porcelain of the crown makes the renewed teeth look natural, helping to return a broken or stained tooth to a more normal appearance.

DENTAL CROWN PROCEDURE

When you visit the dentist for a dental crown, the dentist will remove the decayed parts of the tooth, shape and fit it with a temporary crown (made of either plastic or metal). This provides an immediate solution while your permanent crown is created in the lab.

TEMPORARY CROWNS

The temporary crown serves to protect the exposed tooth while you wait for your permanent crown, to avoid sensitivity, damage, or the buildup of food or bacteria on the exposed tooth. The temporary crown also prevents the tooth from shifting or moving. If your tooth shifts, it could not only affect your bite, but could make seating the permanent crown more difficult. It’s important to remember that temporary crowns are just that – they are essentially a plastic or metal “cap” to protect your tooth in the short-term. It is important that after your temporary crown is placed, you avoid drinks that are very cold or very hot; you’ll also want to avoid tough foods, as well as sticky treats like gum or peanut butter. These sticky or chewy foods could pull your temporary crown out of place.

GETTING YOUR PERMANENT CROWN

Once your permanent crown is ready, the dentist will cement it firmly into place and your tooth will look and feel like new. If your permanent crown is placed and you realize your bite feels “off,” you may need to have the dentist adjust it. Although crowns repair a damaged tooth, continue to maintain good dental hygiene as your underlying natural tooth structure is still vulnerable to decay.

PERIODONTAL MAINTENANCE

Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums, which gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. 

There are numerous diseases that require different treatment approaches. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease in genetically susceptible individuals. Daily brushing and flossing will prevent most periodontal conditions.

WHY IS ORAL HYGIENE SO IMPORTANT?

Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases, (periodontal disease) than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily.

Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque is a colorless film, which sticks to your teeth at the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth. By thorough daily brushing and flossing you can remove these germs and help prevent periodontal disease.

Periodontal diseases can be accelerated by a number of different factors. However, it is mainly caused by the bacteria found in dental plaque, a sticky colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. If not carefully removed by daily brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar).

OTHER IMPORTANT FACTORS AFFECTING THE HEALTH OF YOUR GUMS INCLUDE:

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Stress
• Clenching and grinding teeth
• Medication
• Poor nutrition

PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Bacteria found in plaque produces toxins or poisons that irritate the gums, which may cause them to turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth, causing pockets (spaces) to form. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss.

MAINTAINING A HEALTHY SMILE WITH TEETH CLEANING

A dental hygiene cleaning (prophylaxis) thoroughly cleans your teeth and gums, removing plaque buildup in your mouth. Teeth cleaning immediately freshens your smile while preventing more serious dental problems, such as gingivitis or its more advanced form, periodontal disease. Let us perform a teeth cleaning that will help ensure your smile is both healthy and bright.

TEETH CLEANING APPOINTMENTS ARE VITAL

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that is constantly forming on our teeth and along our gums. Bacteria in our mouths are naturally occurring, but especially thrive on the sugars and carbs from the food and beverages we consume; these same bacteria cause cavities and gum disease. Without proper brushing and flossing, built-up plaque could even harden into calculus, which attaches not only to the enamel of your teeth but the gum line. This can cause serious problems with gum disease. Gum disease, when untreated, can eventually weaken gum tissue and bone, leading to eventual tooth loss. For most people, teeth cleaning is recommended twice per year. However, if you have shown signs of gum disease, or have other health concerns, you may need to get your teeth cleaned more than twice yearly.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING A CLEANING?

During your dental cleaning, the hygienist will use special instruments to remove the plaque and calculus from your teeth – above and below the gums. If your teeth are sensitive or your gums bleed, your hygienist will be able to explain why. They can also remind you about proper brushing and flossing techniques. The hygienist will also polish your teeth to remove stains and let you leave the dentist’s office with a brighter smile.

WHAT IS A DENTAL DEEP CLEANING?

Scaling and root planing (SRP), also known as dental deep cleaning, is necessary when calculus has collected under your gum line. Calculus that has collected under the gum line is unreachable by regular brushing, flossing, or standard dental cleanings. The deeper cleaning is necessary to combat the resulting damage to a patient’s gums – which eventually leads to tooth loss and even health problems. During the scaling and root planing, the area being treated might be numbed. Then your hygienist will work under the gum line to remove the calculus and debris. Afterward, they will carefully shape (“plane”) the root of your tooth, to remove any areas where the bacteria could potentially begin to accumulate again after your cleaning. You may experience soreness or discomfort in the area treated, but your dentist will offer after-care instructions, and will prescribe an antibiotic as needed. Scaling and root planing can be performed on as little as one quadrant (quarter) of your mouth at a time all the way up to all four quadrants (full mouth. In some cases, dental insurance providers may have limitations on the number of quadrants that can be treated per dental visit.

ADVANTAGES OF TOOTH-COLORED RESTORATIONS

There are many advantages to tooth-colored restorations. Resin onlays are bonded to the teeth creating a tight, superior fit to the natural tooth. Such restorations can be used in instances where much of the tooth structure has been lost.

CLEAR BRACES

Invisalign and ClearCorrect offer a modern approach to straightening your teeth. By utilizing a series of clear custom plastic trays, teeth alignment can be achieved in a matter of months. And the best news: It’s never too late.

Adults can pursue straightening their teeth with minimal inconvenience and discomfort.

No wires. No Metal. No worries. With Invisalign and Clearcorrect Alignment solutions, you can correct many malocclusion’s that may be causing issues with confidence, function, or aesthetics. Crooked teeth? No problem. These procedures can move teeth in as little as 6 months using clear tray technology and minimal discomfort. Experienced doctors can determine if you are a candidate with as little as one appointment. And don’t forget about our 10% price beat guarantee. Why pay more? Get started on a straighter, more brilliant smile today with clear tray orthodontic technology.

WHY IS ORAL HYGIENE SO IMPORTANT?

Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases (periodontal disease) than from cavities.

Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily.

Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque is a colorless film, which sticks to your teeth at the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth. By thorough daily brushing and flossing you can remove these germs and help prevent periodontal disease.

HOW TO BRUSH

If you have any pain while brushing or have any questions about how to brush properly, please be sure to call the office at (562) 435-8339.

We recommend using a soft tooth brush. Position the brush at a 45 degree angle where your gums and teeth meet. Gently move the brush in a circular motion several times using small, gentle strokes brushing the outside surfaces of your teeth. Use light pressure while putting the bristles between the teeth, but not so much pressure that you feel any discomfort.

When you are done cleaning the outside surfaces of all your teeth, follow the same directions while cleaning the inside of the back teeth.

To clean the inside surfaces of the upper and lower front teeth, hold the brush vertically. Make several gentle back-and-forth strokes over each tooth. Don’t forget to gently brush the surrounding gum tissue.

Next you will clean the biting surfaces of your teeth by using short, gentle strokes. Change the position of the brush as often as necessary to reach and clean all surfaces. Try to watch yourself in the mirror to make sure you clean each surface. After you are done, rinse vigorously to remove any plaque you might have loosened while brushing.

HOW TO FLOSS

Periodontal disease usually appears between the teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach. 

Flossing is a very effective way to remove plaque from those surfaces. However, it is important to develop the proper technique. The following instructions will help you, but remember it takes time and practice.

Start with a piece of floss (waxed is easier) about 18” long. Lightly wrap most of the floss around the middle finger of one hand. Wrap the rest of the floss around the middle finger of the other hand.

To clean the upper teeth, hold the floss tightly between the thumb and forefinger of each hand. Gently insert the floss tightly between the teeth using a back-and-forth motion. Do not force the floss or try to snap it in to place. Bring the floss to the gum line then curve it into a C-shape against one tooth. Slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth until you feel light resistance. Move the floss up and down on the side of one tooth. Remember there are two tooth surfaces that need to be cleaned in each space. Continue to floss each side of all the upper teeth. Be careful not to cut the gum tissue between the teeth. As the floss becomes soiled, turn from one finger to the other to get a fresh section.

To clean between the bottom teeth, guide the floss using the forefingers of both hands. Do not forget the back side of the last tooth on both sides, upper and lower.

When you are done, rinse vigorously with water to remove plaque and food particles. Do not be alarmed if during the first week of flossing your gums bleed or are a little sore. If your gums hurt while flossing you could be doing it too hard or pinching the gum. As you floss daily and remove the plaque your gums will heal and the bleeding should stop.

CARING FOR SENSITIVE TEETH

Sometimes after dental treatment, teeth are sensitive to hot and cold. This should not last long, but only if the mouth is kept clean. If the mouth is not kept clean the sensitivity will remain and could become more severe. If your teeth are especially sensitive consult with your doctor. They may recommend a medicated toothpaste or mouth rinse made especially for sensitive teeth.

CHOOSING ORAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS

There are so many products on the market it can become confusing and choosing between all the products can be difficult. Here are some suggestions for choosing dental care products that will work for most patients.

Automatic and “high-tech” electronic toothbrushes are safe and effective for the majority of the patients. Oral irrigators (water spraying devices) will rinse your mouth thoroughly, but will not remove plaque. You need to brush and floss in conjunction with the irrigator. We see excellent results with electric toothbrushes called Rotadent and Interplak.

Some toothbrushes have a rubber tip on the handle, this is used to massage the gums after brushing. There are also tiny brushes (interproximal toothbrushes) that clean between your teeth. If these are used improperly you could injure the gums, so discuss proper use with your doctor.

Fluoride toothpastes and mouth rinses, if used in conjunction with brushing and flossing, can reduce tooth decay as much as 40%. Remember, these rinses are not recommended for children under six years of age. Tartar control toothpastes will reduce tartar above the gum line, but gum disease starts below the gum line so these products have not been proven to reduce the early stage of gum disease.

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING

Daily brushing and flossing will keep dental calculus to a minimum, but a professional cleaning will remove calculus in places your toothbrush and floss have missed. Your visit to our office is an important part of your program to prevent gum disease. Keep your teeth for your lifetime.

DENTURE MAINTENANCE: HOME CARE & REGULAR CHECK-UPS

Your dentures are an investment and require care and attention to maintain their optimum performance. The fit of your dentures will have a profound effect on your oral tissues and health. 

Caring for your dentures is vital to your oral health – and can save you money. Ill-fitting or broken dentures not only make it hard to speak and eat, they also harbor bacteria compromising the health of remaining teeth, gums and your overall health. Moreover, dentures are an investment. With the proper care they can last you for years. But if you neglect them, you may find yourself paying for replacement dentures sooner than expected.  

HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR DENTURES AT HOME

To keep your dentures functioning properly, good denture care is important. Dentures require proper care to keep them clean, free from stains and looking their best. Make it a point to remove and rinse dentures after eating, and clean your mouth after removing your dentures. Brush your dentures at least once a day with a soft-bristled brush, and always handle them carefully. Don’t bend them when cleaning, and don’t use any tools other than your brush. You also need to keep them moist. When not in your mouth, soak yours as directed by your dentist. Dentures may deform if they are kept in dry conditions. Always, rinse dentures before putting them back into your mouth, especially if you used denture solutions. These simple steps go a long way in keeping your dentures clean and functioning.

DENTURE EXAMS ARE IMPORTANT

A regular exam can help identify potential issues before they become problems. A variety of medical and dental conditions can alter denture fit.  Ill-fitting dentures may cause bone and tissue changes and need to be corrected for your oral health. Annual exams can also help detect oral abnormalities including cancerous and pre-cancerous lesions. Updating your medical and dental history with any significant changes is critical to maintaining your oral health and well-being. Our practice can assess and recommend solutions to suit your personal needs. schedule an examination today: (562) 435-8339.

COMFORT & FIT: WHY REGULAR ORAL EXAMS ARE IMPORTANT TO DENTURE MAINTENANCE

Bite problems, speech impediments and tissue irritations can be caused by an ill-fitting denture and should be remedied. Leaving this condition unchecked can lead to complicated situations in the future. We can assess your dentures for cracks, chips, and broken or loose teeth and suggest solutions.

OVERVIEW OF EXAM

A denture check-up is not much different from your regular dentist visit. Our team will update your medical and dental history chart. Your dentist will examine your oral cavity, assess tissue and bones, check denture stability and examine your bite. We will also clean your dentures and discuss oral hygiene. It’s a non-invasive, quick visit that is very important to your oral health. As always, the professionals at Salem Dentistry will advise you of any needed procedures or make a recommendation to best suit your needs.