Blog Archives - Page 7 of 43 - Amelia Dental Group

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Problems with your mouth or teeth can occur suddenly. You might be injured playing a sport, eating, or even just while doing a seemingly harmless activity. You should know what types of dental problems are considered emergencies, and what to do while waiting to see your dentist. Quick action can make a big difference in saving a tooth, or limiting damage to your mouth or face.

What is considered an emergency?

Not every dental problem must be treated as an emergency, but some do require professional treatment as soon as possible. This includes a broken or knocked out tooth, lost crowns and fillings, severe toothache, infection, and injuries to the soft tissues of your mouth.

What should I do?

See your dentist as soon as possible to treat the problem and prevent further damage. Here are some steps to take if you experience any of the following common dental emergencies:

Severe toothache – rinse your mouth with warm water and floss to remove trapped food.
Swelling – apply a cold compress on the outside of the swollen area. Do not place any painkiller or aspirin against your gums, because it can burn your gum tissue.
Chipped or broken tooth – if possible, save the piece that has broken off. Rinse both the piece and your mouth with warm water. If it is bleeding, hold gauze on the area. Apply a cold compress to relieve pain and reduce swelling.
Lost filling – apply dental cement from your drugstore to fill the hollow area until you can see your dentist. Or, try placing a bit of sugarless gum into the area.
Lost crown –try to replace the crown on your tooth and hold it in place temporarily with dental cement, denture adhesive, or toothpaste.
Abscess – infections in your mouth can become abscessed, which is a serious condition. Rinse with warm salt water and see your dentist immediately.
Soft tissue injuries – treat damage to your gums, cheeks, tongue and lips by rinsing with warm salty water. Hold gauze to the specific area to control bleeding, and hold a cold pack to the external area.

Schedule your appointment at our Fernandina Beach dental office

Look Out for Oral Cancer

The word cancer strikes fear and dismay in most people, and it’s no different when the diagnosis is oral cancer. Nearly 37,000 Americans are diagnosed with this disease each year and about 8,000 succumb to it. You should know the risk factors and symptoms so that you can either avoid it completely, or catch it early enough that you’ll have the best chance of recovery.
Who is at risk?
Oral cancer is not contagious, but there are some activities that put you at higher risk for the disease. Both smoked and smokeless tobacco are linked to oral cancer, and the more you use tobacco the greater your risk becomes. Excessive alcohol consumption also increases your risk, and paired with tobacco use your risk is even higher. Sun exposure heightens your chances of developing cancer of the lip.

What are the symptoms?
Oral cancer patients may experience any of these signs of the disease:

A sore in the mouth or throat that bleeds often and doesn’t heal within two weeks
A thick area or lump in the cheek
Patches in your mouth or on your lips that are red, white, or a mixture of the two
Pain or difficulty swallowing
Difficulty wearing your dentures
A sore throat
Tongue or mouth numbness
Difficulty chewing, or moving your jaw or tongue
Earache

What should I do if I have symptoms?
If you notice any of these signs, visit your dentist right away to get screened for oral cancer. When diagnosed early, there is an 80 percent survival rate. Unfortunately many patients wait too long to see their dentist, and late-stage diagnosis is the reason for most oral cancer deaths.

We look forward to seeing you in our Fernandina Beach dental office

The Invisible Boost: How Invisalign Can Improve Your Teen’s Oral Health and Confidence

Welcome to the world of orthodontics, where teens often dread the news of needing braces

But what if we told you there was a way to straighten teeth effectively without unsightly metal brackets and wires?

Say hello to Invisalign, the clear aligner treatment that has taken the orthodontic world by storm. In this article, we will explore how Invisalign can benefit your teen’s oral health and confidence.

Importance of Dental Health for Teens

Teens often prioritize social lives over dental health, but healthy teeth play a crucial role in overall well-being. Poor oral hygiene habits can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and even affect speech patterns or breathing. Straightening crooked teeth also means easier cleaning and less risk for future dental problems.

Benefits of Invisalign for Teens

In addition to improving oral health, there are numerous benefits to choosing Invisalign over traditional braces. For starters, they are virtually invisible and don’t draw attention to one’s mouth in photos or social settings. This is especially important during teenage years when self-esteem may be fragile.

Furthermore, unlike metal brackets that require adjustments every few weeks at the dentist’s office; with Invisalign aligners are replaced every two weeks from home. Many foods cannot be eaten with traditional braces which brings a big impact on a teenager’s quality of life.

Invisalign aligners can be removed when eating, so your teen can enjoy all of their favorite foods without restrictions. Overall Invisalign is a great choice for teens who are looking to improve their oral health while maintaining their self-esteem and lifestyle.

Straightening Teeth Without Traditional Braces

I have to say, I am absolutely thrilled that Invisalign has become a popular alternative to traditional braces. As someone who lived through the awkward teenage years with metal brackets and wires stuck in my mouth, I can attest to the fact that it was not a pleasant experience.

But with Invisalign, teens can have their teeth straightened without the discomfort and embarrassment of traditional braces. One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign is that it is virtually invisible.

The clear plastic aligners blend in with your teeth and are hardly noticeable unless you look closely. This makes them a great option for teens who are self-conscious about their appearance and don’t want to draw attention to themselves.

Boosting Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem

Having crooked or misaligned teeth can have a negative impact on a person’s self-confidence and self-esteem. It can make them feel insecure about their appearance and hesitant to smile or speak up in social situations.

But with Invisalign, teens can get the straighter teeth they’ve always wanted, which can greatly improve their confidence levels. In addition to having straighter teeth, wearing Invisalign aligners also requires some level of discipline and responsibility on the part of the teen.

They need to remember to wear their aligners for at least 22 hours a day and take good care of them by cleaning them regularly. This responsibility can also help boost their self-esteem by giving them a sense of accomplishment and control over their own dental health.

Improved Oral Hygiene Habits

Another benefit of Invisalign for teens is that it encourages better oral hygiene habits. With traditional braces, it’s easy for food particles to get stuck in between brackets and wires, making it difficult to keep teeth clean.

But with Invisalign, the aligners can be removed for brushing and flossing, making it easier for teens to maintain good oral hygiene. In addition to brushing and flossing regularly, teens also need to clean their aligners properly to prevent bacteria growth and odor.

This means using a special cleaning solution or simply brushing the aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush. By developing these good habits early on, teens can set themselves up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

The Process of Getting Invisalign for Teens

Consultation with a dentist

The first step in getting Invisalign for your teen is to schedule a consultation with a dentist. This is where you will discuss your teen’s dental history and goals, and the dentist will examine their teeth to determine whether they are a good candidate for Invisalign.

One important thing to keep in mind is that not all dentists are trained or experienced in working with Invisalign. Therefore, it’s crucial to do your research and find a dentist who has the necessary expertise to provide high-quality treatment.

Furthermore, make sure that you choose a dentist who makes your teen feel comfortable and respected. Orthodontic treatment can be a long process, so it’s essential that your teen feels at ease with their provider.

Customized Treatment Plan

Once your teen has been approved for Invisalign treatment, the next step is to create a customized treatment plan. The dentist will take digital impressions of their teeth and use advanced software to create 3D images that show how their teeth will move during treatment.

These images are then used to create a series of custom-made aligners that gradually shift the teeth into their desired position. Your teen will wear each set of aligners for approximately two weeks before switching them out for the next set in the series.

It’s essential to note that each patient’s treatment plan is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to Invisalign. Therefore, it’s crucial that your teen follows their customized treatment plan precisely as prescribed by their dentist.

Wearing The Aligners

The most critical aspect of Invisalign treatment is wearing the aligners consistently as prescribed by the dentist. Your teen should wear their aligners for a minimum of 20-22 hours per day, only removing them when eating, brushing, or flossing.

It’s understandable that wearing the aligners may feel uncomfortable or awkward at first. However, it’s crucial to emphasize to your teen that the more they wear their aligners and follow their customized treatment plan precisely, the faster and more successful their treatment will be.

Getting Invisalign for your teen requires careful consideration and research. However, once you’ve found an experienced dentist who can provide high-quality treatment and created a customized treatment plan specific to your teen’s dental needs – following it precisely will ensure success in achieving a straighter smile.

Common Concerns about Invisalign for Teens

Comfort and Fit

One of the most common concerns regarding Invisalign is that it may not be as comfortable as traditional braces. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

The aligners used in Invisalign treatment are made from a smooth, comfortable plastic material that is custom-made to fit each patient’s mouth. This means that they are not only more comfortable but also less likely to cause irritation or soreness in the mouth.

Additionally, because Invisalign aligners are removable, you have the flexibility to take them out while eating or brushing your teeth. This means you can enjoy all your favorite foods without worry and maintain good oral hygiene habits throughout your treatment.

If you experience any discomfort while wearing your aligners, don’t hesitate to speak with your dentist. They can adjust them as needed to ensure a perfect fit and maximum comfort.

Compliance with Wearing the Aligners

Some people worry that they won’t be able to comply with wearing their aligners for 20-22 hours per day as recommended by their dentist. However, with a little bit of planning and commitment, it’s easy to make Invisalign treatment fit into your lifestyle.

Many teens find that they are actually more compliant with Invisalign than they would have been with traditional braces because there are no food restrictions and the aligners are practically invisible. Additionally, dentists can provide helpful tips and tricks for keeping track of your aligners and remembering to wear them as needed.

Overall, compliance should not be a major concern when considering Invisalign treatment. The benefits of a healthy smile far outweigh any temporary inconvenience or adjustment period required during treatment.

Invisible but Impactful

The Impact on Social Life, School, and Extracurricular Activities

Invisalign is a game-changer for teens who want to straighten their teeth without compromising their social life, school schedule, or extracurricular activities. Unlike traditional braces that can make eating and speaking challenging, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and don’t cause any discomfort. Teens won’t have to worry about food getting stuck in their braces during lunchtime or feeling self-conscious about smiling for photos.

They can also participate in sports without the fear of getting hit in the mouth with brackets or wires. The aligners can be removed for a few hours each day, allowing teenagers to enjoy their favorite foods and maintain good oral hygiene habits easily.

The Convenience Factor That Allows Teens to Maintain Their Lifestyle While Undergoing Treatment

One of the most significant advantages of Invisalign is its convenience factor. The aligners are custom-made to fit perfectly on each patient’s teeth and require minimal adjustments throughout treatment. This means fewer visits to the dentist than with traditional braces.

Furthermore, Invisalign treatment is typically shorter than conventional orthodontic treatment options. Most patients wear Invisalign aligners for 12-18 months compared to two years or more with metal braces.

The convenience factor doesn’t end there—Invisalign’s digital scanning process eliminates the need for goopy impressions that can make patients gag. Instead, high-resolution images are taken using an intraoral scanner that captures every crevice of the teeth accurately.

The Psychological Benefits That Come from Having a Discreet Treatment Option

The psychological benefits of having a discreet treatment option cannot be overstated. For teenagers who may already feel self-conscious about their appearance, facing two years with metal braces can be daunting. Enter Invisalign.

The clear aligners are nearly invisible, allowing patients to go about their daily lives confidently without worrying about their braces. Invisalign can help boost self-esteem and improve overall mental health as patients feel more comfortable in social situations and when interacting with others.

Invisalign has revolutionized orthodontic treatment for teens. The aligners’ convenience, discretion, and comfort have made them a popular choice for those seeking a straighter smile without sacrificing their lifestyle or mental well-being.

Invisalign Goes Beyond Teeth

How Straighter Teeth Can Improve Speech Patterns, Breathing, and Overall Health

Invisalign is not only an excellent way to straighten teeth but can also help improve speech patterns. Some people with crooked teeth find it difficult to pronounce certain words or sounds properly. Straightening the teeth can positively affect speech and pronunciation.

In addition, Invisalign can also help improve breathing problems. If you have crowded or misaligned teeth, it may be causing obstructions in your airways.

Correcting the alignment of your teeth can lead to improved breathing and better oxygen flow. A healthy mouth is integral to overall health and well-being as well.

Poor dental health has been linked to various health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By investing in Invisalign for teens, parents are setting them up for better overall physical health.

How a Healthy Smile Can Lead to Better Job Prospects in the Future

A healthy smile is an important aspect of one’s appearance which can impact job prospects in the future. First impressions are everything when meeting potential employers or clients; having a bright smile can make all the difference.

Moreover, people who take care of their dental hygiene often have more confidence when interacting with others which translates into being perceived as more charismatic and personable by prospective employers. Investing in Invisalign for teens sends a message that they value their appearance which will reflect positively on them throughout their life.

Investing in Dental Health at

Investing in Invisalign for teens shows that parents understand the importance of good dental hygiene at a young age that will carry over into adulthood. Taking preventive measures now will save time, money, and discomfort later on down the road if left untreated.

In addition to physical benefits like improved speech patterns, breathing, and overall health, investing in Invisalign can also have emotional benefits. A straighter smile can boost self-esteem and confidence, leading to better relationships with others.

A Wise Investment

Invisalign is a great investment for teens as it offers many benefits beyond just straightening teeth. Improved speech patterns and breathing, a better-looking smile, and overall physical health are all side effects that come with investing in Invisalign. Moreover, investing in dental health at an early age shows the importance of good hygiene throughout one’s life.

The emotional benefits of having a straighter smile cannot be overlooked either; increased self-esteem leads to better relationships with others. If you want your teen to have the best chance for success in all areas of their life–consider investing in Invisalign.

Take the first step towards a confident smile. Contact our Fernandina Beach dental office to schedule your consultation!

What to Ask Your Fernandina Beach Dentist Prior to Sedation Dentistry

If you are about to undergo a dental therapy that necessitates the use of sedation dentistry, especially IV sedation, there are definitely some important questions you should ask your dentist prior to the procedure. Remembering to ask these questions can be difficult, especially if you are feeling anxious or ill at ease with regard to the treatment.

Use this guide to give you some of the most important questions you might not have thought of or remembered to ask:

What type of sedation will I be receiving?
What risk factors – even rare ones – are associated with this type of sedation?
How long will the treatment take, and during how much of that time will I be sedated?
How will the sedation be administered?
Who will give me the sedation and monitor it during my treatment?
What safety measures do you have in place in case of any medical emergency?
What would happen in the case of a cardiac emergency or a seizure?
Who is trained in CPR and other life-saving skills?
What kind of preparations do I need to make prior to my treatment?
Should someone accompany me to be present during the treatment?
How soon following treatment will I feel awake and alert?
May I drive myself home afterward?
What kind of pain can I expect after my treatment?
How will I manage my discomfort?
What kind of aftercare does my particular treatment require?
What signs should I look for that would lead me to contact you for a follow-up?

Talk to Fernandina Beach sedation dentist Dr. Kitson, Dr. Bietenholz, Dr. Garrett, and Dr. Mokris to get the answers to questions like these and any others you may have prior to receiving sedation dentistry.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal Therapy

If you are dealing with ongoing tooth pain, you may be too fearful to go to the dentist to find out what’s going on. It’s important that you do, however, as you may need root canal therapy. Your dentist will need to evaluate you to see if that procedure is necessary, and will closely examine several factors: the signs the dentist can see personally, the results of any tests performed during your visit, and the symptoms you have been experiencing with the problematic tooth.

Your dentist may observe:

A tooth that is discolored
X-rays that reveal a tooth problem
A fistulous tract, or persistent or recurring gum pimple

Additional testing done by your dentist:

X-rays provide an extremely clear picture of the health of the tooth
Thermal testing can evaluate sensitivity through a careful application of hot or cold temperatures
Percussion testing evaluates pain response through gentle tapping

You may have been noticing:

A broken or cracked tooth obviously decayed or damaged
A discolored tooth, especially a grey tooth
A “bubble” in your gums, like a pimple. It may or may not have ruptured, leaking pus that smells or tastes awful
Pain that shoots out from one tooth to your jaw or ear, leading to earache symptoms
Pain that prevents you from living your life without painkillers
Pain, sensitivity or swelling on one certain tooth
Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold liquids that lingers and is very painful

In some cases, an infected tooth that requires a root canal treatment has no symptoms at all that could be discerned by you. Only a dental professional can confirm the need to undergo root canal therapies. If you are experiencing pain that disrupts your life, talk to your dentist or endodontist immediately. Root canal treatments are designed to relieve the pain you’re experiencing now and to restore your tooth to full form and function. Don’t wait to get your life and smile back!

Our dental office is located in Fernandina Beach

Comparing Oral and Intravenous Sedation

Sedation dentistry provides a way for those who experience anxiety or fear about visiting the dentist to get the treatment they need. It is also helping in relieving pain, and enabling more dental work to be performed in one visit. Two common methods of administering sedation are oral and intravenous (IV). Each type has its own unique characteristics and attributes.

Oral sedation involves swallowing pills or liquids. There are no shots, which is good news for patients afraid of needles. However, oral sedatives are less predictable because each medication affects people differently based on age, weight, medical history, and more. Also, there is a time delay between swallowing it and taking effect. Since the medication is absorbed through digestion, it is difficult to alter the sedation level quickly during treatment. Nearly all patients respond well to oral sedation, with few occurrences of any side effects. Patients typically don’t remember anything that occurred during treatment.

IV sedation means that the medication goes directly into the blood stream though an IV injection. A very powerful method, the effects are instant once the shot is given. If the medication begins to wear off, more can be administered through the IV for immediate results. IV sedation is very common during oral surgeries, which benefit from the ability to alter the medication dosage as needed. It is advantageous for long procedures or when multiple treatments are being done in one sitting. Patients will not remember the procedure or sometimes even the appointment at all. The biggest drawback of IV sedation is for patients who dislike needles. IV sedation requires that the dentist have special training and certification, so make sure that your dentist is qualified if this method is offered.

Both types of sedation can be effective depending on the situation and patient. Discuss your case with your dentist to help you decide which one might be the best for you.