About 20 million Americans have been diagnosed with asthma, a long-term lung disease that causes swelling and narrowing of the airways. The condition has been linked to oral health, with patients having increased risk for cavities, gum problems, and bad breath.
One of the main culprits negatively impacting an asthma patient’s oral health is the medication required to treat the condition. Some medicines, such as corticosteroids, decrease the flow of saliva. This leads to dry mouth, which in turn can increase cavities and bad breath. Dry mouth is worsened by the fact that many asthma patients breathe through their mouth. Inhaled steroids can also increase the risk of thrush, which is caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the mouth.
Here are some tips for keeping your mouth safe while still controlling your asthma:
- Make sure your dentist is aware of your condition, as well as all medications that you are taking.
- Rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash after using your inhaler.
- Consider using a spacer device with your inhaler, which will spray the medication directly into your throat and avoid some of the direct risks to your mouth.
- Bring your inhaler with you to dentist appointments, both to show it to your dentist and to have your medication available in case you experience an asthma attack at the office.
- Ask your dentist if more frequent dental visits are recommended in your case.
- Inquire about adding fluoride supplements to your routine, especially in areas where the water is not fluoridated.
- Maintain good brushing and flossing habits.
Schedule your appointment at our Fernandina Beach dental office
An aching tooth can make your life miserable. Pain, difficulty eating, inability to sleep, headaches and earaches are some of the problems that often accompany a toothache. If you have any of these symptoms and suspect a damaged tooth, a trip to the dentist is in order to see if root canal treatment might be needed.
What is root canal therapy? Although it has gotten a bad reputation over the years, it is the best way to save your tooth once infection has set in. The cause for the problem can vary, including deep tooth decay, a faulty crown, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. Once the inside of the tooth called the pulp becomes damaged, root canal treatment is the ideal solution. If you don’t seek treatment, severe pain and possible tooth loss may be in your future.
During root canal therapy, the damaged tooth pulp is carefully removed so that the interior of the tooth can be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Then the tooth is filled and sealed using a special material. Finally, the tooth is fully restored with a crown or filling to offer protection from future damage.
What are the positive outcomes of root canal treatment? First, it gives you back the complete function and natural appearance of your real tooth. You avoid getting a hole in your smile or needing a procedure like a dental implant. Root canal treatment restores your normal sensation and biting force, providing for efficient and painless chewing. This treatment also protects other teeth from receiving excessive wear, since your real tooth remains in place and able to take its fair share of tooth wear. Of course, treatment will also relieve the pain and other symptoms associated with your damaged tooth.
Root canal treatment is usually quite simple when performed by a qualified dental professional. Modern techniques allow the process to be as comfortable as just getting a normal filling. The procedure may be completed in only a couple of appointments and the end result will be a long-lasting, healthy tooth.
Our dental office is located in Fernandina Beach
Sometimes a tooth is so severely damaged that the only way to save it is with root canal treatment. There is no reason to turn and run if your dentist advises this procedure. The treatment has advanced to the point that it’s often compared to getting a filling. There are certain steps that will be performed as part of nearly every root canal procedure.
Preparation
X-rays may be taken as part of the diagnosis process or to determine the extent of damage. Once the dentist is ready to begin treatment, a local anesthetic will be used to numb the area throughout the procedure.
Pulp removal
A rubber dam will be placed around the tooth to separate the area from the rest of the mouth, and to keep it dry from saliva. The tooth will be opened, often using a small dental drill, to gain access to the pulp inside the tooth. The damaged pulp will be removed, and if there is an abscess it will be drained.
Cleaning and filling
After the pulp is eliminated, the dentist will thoroughly clean the area. The root canal will be widened if needed to create an adequate space for the filling. Depending on the extent of the damage, this step of the process can take up to several hours to complete or it can be spread over more than one visit. A temporary filling is sometimes used to seal the area between visits. If infection is present, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics.
Sealing
The temporary filling will be removed and the permanent filling placed to fully seal the tooth and prevent future infection. If the tooth has been filled at the root, the risk of breaking is higher so a crown may be recommended for protection.
Crown placement
Crowns help prevent further damage or fracturing. If needed, the tooth will be reduced somewhat to allow space for the crown. It will be held in place securely with dental cement.
Recovery
After root canal treatment, the tooth should survive for many years. The procedure may be repeated if re-infection occurs.
Our dental office is located in Fernandina Beach
The Clear Alternative to Traditional Braces
For decades, traditional metal braces were the go-to solution for straightening teeth. However, dental technology has advanced in recent years, and now there’s a more discreet option available: Invisalign.
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses clear plastic aligners to straighten teeth instead of metal brackets and wires. It’s becoming increasingly popular among adults and teens who want a straighter smile without the embarrassment of having bulky metal braces.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign is a clear alternative that uses 3D imaging technology to create custom-made aligners for each patient. The aligners are made from smooth, comfortable plastic that fits snugly over your teeth and gently shifts them into the correct position. Patients receive a new set of aligners every two weeks, each one bringing them closer to their desired smile.
The Popularity of Invisalign
Invisalign’s popularity has been on the rise since its introduction in 1997. More than four million people worldwide have already used this treatment, many of whom are adults who previously avoided getting braces because they didn’t want a mouth full of metal.
With Invisalign’s discreet appearance, it’s no surprise that so many individuals are choosing this method to correct their smiles without drawing attention to themselves. Whether you’re an adult who wants to improve your smile for professional reasons or just someone looking for a less invasive way to straighten your teeth, Invisalign may be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Comparison to Traditional Braces
Compared to traditional metal braces, Invisalign has several advantages. First and foremost, they’re virtually invisible when worn, making them a discreet option for adults and teens who may feel self-conscious about wearing braces. In addition, because they’re removable, you can easily take them out when eating or brushing/flossing.
This makes them more convenient than traditional braces, which require extra care and attention when it comes to oral hygiene. Because there are no brackets or wires involved in Invisalign treatment, there’s less chance of irritation or discomfort compared to traditional braces.
Aesthetic Benefits
One of the most significant advantages of Invisalign is its aesthetic appeal. Unlike traditional braces which are highly visible, Invisalign is virtually invisible due to its clear aligners.
This makes it an excellent option for adults and teens who do not want to draw attention to their teeth while undergoing treatment. Clear aligners are also made of smooth plastic, eliminating the discomfort and irritation caused by metal brackets or wires that can poke or scrape the inside of your mouth.
Convenience Benefits
In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, Invisalign is also more convenient than traditional braces in many ways. Firstly, the aligners are removable, allowing for easy brushing, flossing, and eating without getting food particles stuck in your braces.
This means that maintaining proper oral hygiene during treatment is much easier with Invisalign than with traditional braces. Another benefit of Invisalign is that it requires fewer office visits compared to traditional braces.
With traditional braces, you must visit your dentist every few weeks for adjustments and tightening which can be time-consuming and inconvenient if you have a busy schedule. On the other hand, with Invisalign, you typically only need appointments every six to eight weeks.
Health Benefits
The health benefits of straighter teeth cannot be overstated. Properly aligned teeth can improve overall oral health by reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay caused by bacteria buildup in hard-to-reach areas between crooked teeth.
In addition to improving oral health outcomes; proper alignment can alleviate jaw pain and headaches resulting from misaligned jaws or bite issues such as overbites or underbites. Overall, Invisalign offers numerous benefits over traditional braces including aesthetic appeal due to clear aligners with no metal brackets or wires, convenience through removable aligners that make proper hygiene easier and require fewer office visits, and health benefits stemming from properly aligned teeth.
The Process of Getting Invisalign
Getting started with Invisalign is a simple process that begins with scheduling a consultation with an certified Invisalign dentist. During this first appointment, the dentist will evaluate your teeth and determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. They will also explain the treatment process and answer any questions you may have.
Consultation with a Certified Invisalign Dentist
During your initial consultation, be sure to bring up any concerns or questions you have about the process. The dentist will take x-rays and impressions of your teeth to develop 3D images of your mouth. This will give them a clear understanding of what needs to be corrected and how the aligners should be designed.
Customized Treatment Plan
Your customized treatment plan is then created based on the images taken during your consultation. Your aligners are designed to gradually shift your teeth into their proper position. Each set of aligners moves the teeth slightly until they reach their final desired location, making it important that you wear them as directed by your dentist.
Wearing the Aligners
The aligners are made from clear plastic material that is molded to fit snugly over your teeth. They can be easily removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. However, it’s important to wear them for at least 22 hours each day to get optimal results.
Follow-Up Appointments
You’ll have appointments periodically throughout your treatment plan so that the dentist can monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to ensure success in achieving straighter teeth. Follow-up appointments usually occur every six weeks or so depending on how aggressive the treatment plan is. While traditional braces can be uncomfortable, unsightly and require frequent adjustments, Invisalign is a more convenient, less noticeable alternative.
If you’re considering braces but want to avoid metal brackets and wires, Invisalign may be right for you. The treatment process is easy to follow and the results are often impressive.
Benefits of Choosing Invisalign over Traditional Braces
While both options have their pros and cons, Invisalign offers several benefits that make it an attractive option for many patients. It’s clear aligners are virtually invisible and comfortable to wear without sacrificing effectiveness in correcting misaligned teeth.
They also allow for easy maintenance with no dietary restrictions while improving oral hygiene habits by allowing easy brushing and flossing. Furthermore, choosing an experienced dentist familiar with this method ensures one will get the best results possible from their investment in straightening their teeth!
Ready to transform your smile? Schedule your appointment today at our Fernandina Beach dental office.
Porcelain veneers can transform your smile from one that embarrasses you to one that you’re proud to show off. A thin shell of porcelain is bonded onto the fronts of your teeth to improve the shape and color. If you’re looking to close gaps between your teeth, reshape your teeth, or brighten stained teeth, porcelain veneers may be your answer. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about veneers.
How do veneers work?
Made from durable and natural-looking porcelain, veneers are customized to fit your teeth. Your face shape, skin tone, eyes, height, and even your personality are considered when designing your dental veneers. They are bonded securely to your teeth to give you the smile you always wanted.
Is it a long process to get them?
The process for getting veneers usually takes about four to six weeks. At your first appointment, your teeth will be shaped and their surface will be slightly roughened. Impressions will be taken to create models of your mouth so that the veneers can be personalized for you. At the next appointment, your teeth will be cleaned and polished before a special adhesive is used to bond the veneers to your teeth. A high-intensity light is used to set the adhesive.
What will my teeth look like while I’m waiting for veneers?
After your teeth have been prepared for veneers, usually you will be fitted with specialized temporary veneers. These interim veneers look better than your original teeth, so you won’t feel self-conscious during the waiting period.
How long do veneers last?
Porcelain veneers typically last from ten to twenty years. Porcelain is very strong and durable, and resistant to stains and wear.
What are the advantages to veneers?
Since the bond to your original teeth is strong, porcelain veneers can be treated just like your own teeth. They appear very natural because the porcelain looks similar to your tooth enamel. Veneers can also protect your teeth from further damage if they are chipped or worn down, so they not only cover your teeth with a layer of protection but also create a beautiful bright smile.
If you live in the Fernandina Beach area contact us today
When you’re talking about the oral health of yourself and your family, there is no excuse for neglecting regular dental care. There are various kinds of dentists and specialists, but if you need general dental treatment, a family dentist is a great choice.
Family dentists treat common dental problems and provide maintenance care. Visiting a family dentist is the first line of defense against oral health problems. In addition to regular checkups and cleanings, you will learn preventative techniques to help you avoid issues. If the dentist diagnoses a problem and you need further treatment, a specialist in that area may be recommended to provide additional specialized care.
It is important to find the right family dentist for your needs. Look for advertisements for dentists in your area, and ask friends and family for recommendations. Visit the dental office before finalizing your selection so that you can meet the staff, see the facility and equipment, and learn more about the practice. You should feel comfortable and confident in the office policies and staff, since you are likely establishing a healthcare relationship to last for years.
Also ask about the dentist’s qualifications and experience. Make sure that the services you are interested in are offered, and that the dentist works with specialists to get you the proper treatment for those that are not offered. It is ideal to visit the dentist for minor treatment such as a professional cleaning before switching the whole family to the practice. That way you can see first-hand if the dentist meets your expectations. You may also want to schedule an appointment for your children to ensure the whole family is comfortable.
Once you and your family are confident that the family dentist is right for all of you, switch everyone to the practice and then follow up on regular dental care for the whole family.
If you live in the Fernandina Beach area contact us today
