Dental blog | Dental 1 Care a Sterling Heights MI Dentist

Improve Your Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry

June 28, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Cosmetic dentistry has advanced so much that the options available to those who want to improve their smiles are so abundant that they may need help in selecting the procedure which is best suited for their needs. Here is a brief discussion of some of the cosmetic dental procedures offered at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights. Use this information to narrow down your options as you consider ways to fix any cosmetic defect you or a loved one has.

Teeth Whitening

As you grow older, the foods and drinks you consume, the medicines you take, and other factors take a toll on your teeth, thereby causing them to lose their natural bright color. When that happens, several options are available to you to restore your bright smile. For example, you can ask Dr. Fardi Farhat, a leading dentist in Sterling Heights, to prepare a customized teeth whitening tray which you can use at home to get rid of the stains in a gradual process. Alternatively, the experts at Dental One Care can perform in-office teeth whitening using a stronger bleaching agent than what is contained in at-home teeth whitening kits.

In-office teeth whitening may be more costly when compared to at-home teeth whitening, but you get quicker results, and the process is overseen by a professional. For instance, while at-home teeth whitening may take several weeks to show results, in-office whitening brings results immediately, and you walk out with brighter teeth.

Dental Veneers

You may have heard of veneers on furniture, haven’t you? Well, dental veneers also refer to thin materials that are placed on the front of your teeth for one or several reasons. For example, the veneer may be used to cover a permanently stained tooth, or it can be intended to improve the appearance of a poorly shaped tooth.

Veneers are mainly used to provide a temporary fix to cosmetic defects on the teeth which are visible when you smile or speak. You shouldn’t, therefore, consider them as a remedy for a defect affecting the teeth at the back of your mouth.

At least two visits are needed to get veneers. The first visit to Dental One Care caters for the initial consultation as well as taking an impression of the teeth upon which veneers will be placed. Color matching is also done during this visit. The second visit is for placing the veneers on the teeth once the external dental lab sends the completed restorations back to Dr. Fardi Farhat. Veneers are more complex and therefore, more expensive than dental bonding.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding entails placing tooth-colored resins on a tooth with a minor defect, such as a chip, discoloration, or poor shape. The resin bonds with the tooth under the influence of a special light. This simple procedure can be completed in one visit to Dental One Care in Sterling Heights, unlike veneers, which require several visits. However, the material used during bonding stains and cracks easily, so you want to take better care of the bonded tooth if you want to retain the bond for years.

Dental Crowns

As the name suggests, a dental crown covers your entire tooth in the same way that a cap does on one’s head. Crowns are the cosmetic restoration of choice when serious structural or cosmetic damage occurs. For example, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy may be so weak that only a crown will keep it together for years. Similarly, badly fractured teeth need crowns to retain their structural and aesthetic integrity.

The superior strength of crowns comes from the materials, such as porcelain, gold, and other metals, from which they are made. Crowns can be temporary or permanent. Temporary crowns are made from less durable materials since they aren’t intended to be used for long. Permanent crowns are usually fabricated by an external lab, so you use the temporary crown while you wait for the permanent one to be made. Crowns are more expensive than the cosmetic dentistry procedures described earlier, but they make up for that higher price tag by their durability.

Enamel Contouring and Shaping Procedures

If you want to make minor changes to the size, shape, and position of your teeth, then talk to the experts at Dental One Care. The Sterling Heights dentists will remove some enamel from the surface of your teeth in order to fix the defect which has you bothered. Many times, enamel shaping and contouring is done in combination with dental bonding since the removal of some enamel from your teeth can leave them weaker.

Dental Braces

Braces are primarily used to correct dental crowding, misalignment, bite problems, and jaw muscle issues. Traditionally, braces were composed of metal wires while today there are plastic nearly-invisible aligners used to move your teeth in a more discreet way. Some conditions, such as when you want to move back teeth with deep roots, are better handled by traditional metal braces while other cases, such as minor misalignment, can be fixed using clear braces. Talk to Dr. Fardi Farhat to find out if you qualify for the clear braces (Invisalign, for example). The correction of your dental defect usually takes several months as the braces are adjusted periodically while they slowly move the teeth to their new positions.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most complex and expensive cosmetic dentistry procedures. It involves the surgical placement of a metal screw (usually titanium) in your jaw and letting that metal fuse with your jawbone before a component called an abutment is placed in the implant. The top part of a tooth replacement called a crown is attached to this abutment anchored in the implant. The entire process can take anywhere from three months to more than half a year, depending on how quickly your body can heal after each of the different steps of the procedure. Nearly everyone can get dental implants since some of the limiting factors, such as bone loss, can be corrected through other procedures (bone grafts, for example). We asked our friend, Dr. Matt Laurich, a dentist in Livonia, MI, about dental implants. Dr. Laurich says dental implants are one of the best cosmetic treatments you can choose from at the dentist because they basically pay for themselves since they last forever!

Many more cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as dental bridges and procedures to fix indentations in your gums, also exist. Talk to Dr. Fardi Farhat and an appropriate cosmetic dentistry procedure will be recommended to fix your specific condition. Why stay with an imperfect smile when solutions exist?

Best Ways to Keep Your Healthy Gums

June 26, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Dental health isn’t all about having sparkling teeth to display during photo moments or munch on any kind of food you desire. The health of your gums also matters, and millions of people have diseased gums and they don’t even know it. Dental One Care doesn’t want you to be one of those blissfully ignorant people, and it has compiled the following tips to help you to keep your gums healthy.

Brush Twice a Day

This seems so basic, but you would be shocked by how many people neglect to perform this crucial oral health activity. Dr. Fardi Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, explains that it takes plaque approximately 24 hours to form and start hardening into tartar (calculus). By brushing twice a day, you disrupt this plaque and tartar formation process so that bacteria doesn’t get lodged beneath your gum line to cause you gum disease. So, take the hint and start brushing twice a day and make sure that you brush all the surfaces of your teeth each time.

Use the Right Toothpaste

If you thought that all toothpaste was created the same, take a closer look at the different kinds of toothpaste in the toothpaste aisle of your local convenience store. Some toothpaste is meant to whiten your teeth, other types are for people with sensitive teeth, some varieties are for kids, and some toothpaste is fluoride-free. There’s a variety of toothpaste for every conceivable need. Which type is right for you? First, the experts at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights recommend that you narrow down your options to toothpaste which have the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval. This shows you that the toothpaste has been endorsed by dental professionals as being helpful in protecting dental health. Secondly, select a toothpaste that contains fluoride since it has a track record of protecting teeth from decay and damage by bacteria. The rest is just bells and whistles (flavors, etc.).

Know When to Rinse Your Mouth

Rinsing the mouth can have two totally different effects depending on when it is done. For example, rinsing your mouth with water just after you have had a meal is a good habit because it washes away any food particles which may have remained stuck on your teeth. However, it isn’t advisable to rinse your mouth with water immediately after brushing because you want the fluoride in the toothpaste to have a few minutes to work its protective magic on your teeth. Rinsing immediately washes that fluoride away! Dr. Fardi Farhat, therefore, recommends that you wait a minute or so after brushing your teeth before you rinse your mouth.

Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash

While still on the subject of rinsing your mouth, dentists in Sterling Heights also recommend that you use a medicinal rather than esthetic (making your breath smell fresh) mouthwash. This mouthwash will kill any bacteria growing in your mouth and your gums will be protected from gum disease. Read the product labels of different mouthwashes available and pick one that is antibacterial. Alternatively, you can ask Dr. Fardi Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, for the best brands to buy.

Floss Daily

We asked our friend, Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, KY, about important dental care habits. Dr. Neda says flossing may be one of the most important daily habits you can have. Your toothbrush may not be able to reach all the areas that need to be cleaned. For example, a toothbrush is unable to reach the gum between teeth. Such hard-to-reach areas are best cleaned by flossing on a daily basis, regardless of what time you decide to floss. Remember, plaque starts hardening into tartar within 24 hours, so flossing once a day gives you a chance to catch that plaque when it is still pliable.

Get Off Cigarettes

Another damaging habit that will certainly compromise the health of your gums is smoking. The chemicals in cigarettes are very harsh on the gums and soon cause them to be inflamed. The same chemicals also make it hard for the gums to heal, so you will quickly slide into a spiral of gum issues if you smoke. Talk to the experts at Dental One Care for suggestions on what to do and who to see for help in quitting smoking. As you work towards quitting smoking, the team of Dr. Fardi Farhat will treat the dental health problems caused by smoking.

Schedule Dental Cleanings Every Six Months

You can also ensure that you have healthy gums all your life by visiting Dental One Care for professional dental cleanings every six months and a checkup at least once a year. This professional care is important because any developing issues will be caught and treated early before they cause extensive damage to your dental health. For example, gingivitis can be caught early and reversed before it progresses to periodontal disease which can cause irreversible damage to your teeth, jaw, and gums.

Watch Your Diet

Your diet also plays a big part in determining whether your gums will be healthy or plagued by disease. For example, a person who limits the consumption of sticky or sugary drinks and foods stands a higher chance of having healthy teeth and gums when compared to another whose diet contains a lot of these substances. Dr. Fardi Farhat recommends that you eat a diet that is teeth-friendly, such as consuming foods rich in calcium (yogurt, milk, etc.). A balanced diet is crucial to availing all the nutrients that your gums and teeth need to stay healthy.

Stay Hydrated

Keeping hydrated is beneficial to your oral health, especially your gums. A hydrated body will usually secrete enough saliva to maintain a correct pH balance in the mouth while also washing the oral environment to get rid of food particles, bacteria and other contaminants in the mouth. Take about 8 glasses of water each day so that your body stays hydrated. The amount of water you need will vary in accordance with the time of the year, the activities you are engaged in and your overall health. Listen to your body and hydrate accordingly.

Despite all your efforts to keep your gums healthy, you may still develop gum disease. When that happens (if you notice that your gums are inflamed, bleeding or swollen, etc.), contact Dental One Care for prompt treatment. The timely treatment promotes oral health because diseases aren’t given a chance to progress. So, call us each time you notice something unusual about your oral health. Dr. Fardi Farhat will conduct a thorough examination and design an appropriate treatment plan to bring you back to good oral health.

Is Dental Bonding for Me?

June 24, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Dental bonding refers to a process through which your dentist in Sterling Heights places a special resin on your tooth to fix a minor cosmetic or structural issue. This procedure is very popular for very many reasons as you will discover in the discussion below.

Defects Where Dental Bonding is Helpful

Discolored teeth. When your tooth or teeth are discolored, Dr. Fardi Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, can apply this special resin to the affected teeth so that their color matches that of the rest of your teeth.

Minor chips. When your tooth is chipped, it can develop an unflattering appearance especially if that tooth is among those that are visible when you smile. In such a case, you can contact Dental One Care so that dental bonding is applied to mask the chipped area of your tooth.

Small teeth. Some people’s teeth are naturally small and those individuals would like to have their teeth made slightly bigger. Dental bonding comes in handy in such situations since the bonding material can be placed on the sides of the teeth to make them look wider than they naturally are.

Short teeth. Some people want to make their teeth look longer than they are naturally. The team at Dental One Care can place the bonding resin on the top surface of those teeth in order to improve their length.

Minor gaps in teeth. Dental bonding can also be used to close the small unwanted gaps between teeth. For patients with this problem, Dr. Fardi Farhat places the bonding resin on the sides of the teeth so that the gaps are eliminated.

The Pros of Dental Bonding

Non-invasive. One of the biggest reasons for the popularity of dental bonding is that the procedure is non-invasive, unlike other procedures such as dental crowns or veneers. Dental bonding is therefore reversible because the structure of your natural tooth isn’t affected during the procedure.

It is quick and simple. Undergoing dental bonding on one or more teeth takes a short time to be completed. This means you can schedule the procedure within your workday and still get back to your to-do list without anyone being the wiser. This is unlike other dental procedures, such as getting dental implants, which take months to be completed.

It is affordable. The simplicity of dental bonding is also reflected in its affordable cost. The materials used for this procedure are readily available and no specialized skill is required to apply the bonding resin. The net result of all these attributes is that the bill you get at Dental One Care for this procedure will be affordable.

Many issues can be addressed at one go. We asked our friend, Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, about the benefits of dental bonding. Dr. Green says dental bonding can also fix more than one issue with the same tooth or teeth. For example, your local dentist can apply a bonding resin on a tooth to make it bigger and also cover the stubborn stain which hasn’t responded to teeth whitening treatments.

Potential Limitations of Dental Bonding

Dr. Fardi Farhat cautions that not every cosmetic problem can be fixed by dental bonding because this procedure best addresses minor defects only. For example, people with severely cracked teeth are better off getting a dental crown because it does a better job of giving the damaged tooth added structural strength.

Additionally, the dentist in Sterling Heights explains that the bonding resin used isn’t very strong, so this makes the procedure suitable for the teeth at the front of your mouth only. The back teeth are exposed to a lot of pressure as you chew and these forces can easily damage the bonding resin.

Dental Bonding Procedure

The initial exam. First, you will be examined by the Sterling Heights dentist to confirm that dental bonding will be helpful for you. Patients with major cosmetic or structural issues may be advised to opt for a more appropriate procedure.

Next, Dr. Farhat may or may not administer a local anesthetic around the tooth to be bonded. Anesthesia is usually not required, but people with chipped teeth or teeth with other abnormalities may need it since their teeth tend to be sensitive.

Once the anesthesia takes effect, the professional at Dental One Care will place cotton pads inside your mouth to keep saliva from interfering with the dental procedure.

An etching solution is now applied to the surface of the tooth to roughen it in preparation for the bonding resin going to be applied. This resin looks like putty and it is shaped before being placed on your tooth. The particular resin used is selected to match the color of your tooth.

Once the resin is in place, the dentist in Sterling Heights will use special tools to put final touches to the shape of the resin before polishing it to remove any sharp edges. The final step involves shining a special light on the resin so that it cures (hardens).

How to Care for Your Bonded Tooth

Avoid using your bonded tooth (or any other tooth for that matter) to bite hard substances, such as nut shells and ice. As already mentioned, the bonding resin isn’t very hard and can easily be damaged if used to bite or chew hard things.

Go for professional dental cleanings every six months so that the tooth beneath the bond remains healthy. Otherwise, the bonded material will detach from your tooth if the health of the underlying tooth is compromised by dental diseases.

Dr. Fardi Farhat also cautions that you should watch your intake of pigmented foods and drinks, such as coffee since these can easily stain the resin bonded onto your tooth. Once stained, the dental bond can only be replaced since it cannot be whitened in the same way that natural teeth can be whitened.

Do you still have questions about dental bonding? Contact Dental One Care for answers to any question you have about dental bonding or any other dental issue. Dr. Fardi Farhat and the entire team are standing by to give you the treatment you need to maintain your smile for the rest of your life.

8 Signs You Need Emergency Dental Care

June 21, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Some dental pains and aches can be treated using home remedies or OTC drugs, but others point to a bigger problem and even call for urgent professional attention. The question is, how do you know if you need to see a dentist immediately in order to get treatment for your pain or aches or use home remedies? Dentists at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights share the following signs which should prompt you to see Dr. Fardi Farhat immediately.

Sign #1: Your Tooth is Loose

Adults should never have loose teeth, so emergency dental care is in order once you notice that one or more of your teeth is/are loose. Your local dentist in Sterling Heights explains that teeth can become loose for a variety of reasons, such as advanced periodontal disease or impact trauma to the teeth and gums. Prompt treatment for the loose tooth, in this case, will save that tooth from deteriorating and falling out.

Sign #2: Severe Toothache

Minor toothaches can be managed at home, but a severe toothache requires immediate dental care. The severe toothache could be an indicator that the tooth root is infected, or other factors have triggered that severe toothache. The only way to be certain that the exact root cause of the pain has been identified and treated is by visiting Dental One Care for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Sign #3: Aching and Bleeding Gums

Some bleeding is normal when you brush and floss, especially if you are flossing for the first time. However, you should be concerned if the bleeding is chronic and excessive. Aching gums are also a red flag you should not ignore. The expert hands and eye of Dr. Fardi Farhat are required to find out what exactly is causing the aches and bleeding. Gum disease is often the culprit, and it is important to treat it promptly so that it doesn’t cause irreversible damage to your dental health.

Sign #4: Your Jaw is Swollen

When your jaw swells, rush for emergency dental care at Dental One Care. The swelling points to a serious infection, most likely an infection of your salivary gland. The salivary gland is very important because the saliva it secretes helps to clean your mouth and prevent the proliferation of oral bacteria. Saliva also facilitates the digestion process because it contains enzymes that kick-start the process of breaking down the food you eat. The dentist in Sterling Heights will examine you and identify the exact infection you have so that the right treatment is administered.

Sign #5: Dental Abscesses

We asked our friend, Dr. Taher Dhoon, a dentist in Greeley, CO, about dental emergencies. Dr. Dhoon says dental abscesses are one of the most common dental problems patients have. An abscessed tooth presents with a lot of pain, fever, pus, a foul taste in your mouth and swollen glands. These signs suggest that the root of your tooth may have become infected due to trauma, advanced gum disease or an untreated cavity. See a dentist in Sterling Heights immediately so that a surgical procedure to drain the abscess can be done.

Sign #6: A Numb Tooth

Teeth are full of living tissues, so they should never be numb. When your tooth becomes numb, one of several things could have happened. For example, an infection could have spread to the root of that tooth and compromised the functioning of the nerves in there. The loss of sensation is a reminder that you need to see Dr. Fardi Farhat immediately so that a root canal or any other treatment can be performed. Otherwise, you may lose that tooth and others as the infection spreads.

Sign #7: A Metallic Taste in the Mouth

When dental fillings are damaged, they tend to leave a metallic taste in the mouth. Rush to Dental One Care as soon as you get this metallic taste because your filling is most likely leaking. The old filling will be replaced and the root of your tooth will be saved from infections that can necessitate root canal therapy.

Sign #8: Constant Headaches

The body is a complex system of interconnected parts. A problem that affects one part can therefore easily affect or manifest in other parts. For example, people who grind their teeth can wake up with a headache because the abnormal amounts of energy used to grind the teeth strains the jaw muscles and the surrounding areas. See a dental expert at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights so that a comprehensive exam can be done to establish what is causing your chronic headaches. Remember, headaches are signs that something is wrong, so you shouldn’t try to treat the headache on its own without finding out what is triggering it.

It is wise to have the contact information of Dental One Care with you at all times so that you can contact Dr. Fardi Farhat and the entire team when the need arises. Don’t brush off some dental issues as minor, give us a call and we will advise you on what to do to resolve the problem. If the situation calls for emergency dental care, we will do what is required to protect your dental health.

Reasons Why You Need an Oral Checkup

June 13, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Can you remember the last time you paid your dentist a visit? If your answer is no, then you may have a serious problem. Your mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body and contains millions of bacteria, some good and some bad. Which is why it is important to go for regular checkups with your dentist to ensure everything is in order.

Most individuals think that brushing and flossing are enough to maintain good oral health. But there are numerous oral problems that can occur even if you brush and floss regularly. Which is why the American Dental Association has recommended that individuals should get a dental checkup once every six months. More often for those that have oral problems. We discuss some reasons why that is.

Detect Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a serious disease that can accumulate for some period of time before being detected by an individual. Like all cancer, the disease is life-threatening and the sooner it is detected the more chances of it being treated. Since the early signs are usually overlooked by individuals, a dentist can help identify early stages of oral cancer. Which means that it can be treated before it spreads, giving individuals a higher chance of overcoming it.

Plaque

Build up of plaque leads to tartar which results in cavities. When it comes to dental care, these three are probably the most common problems. One thing people that brush and floss regularly tend to overlook is that plaque can still build up in small pockets that are hard to reach which brushing and flossing. As plaque builds up, tartar is formed. Tartar is mch harder than plaque and cannot be removed without professional cleaning. What tartar does is, it starts to create holes in the teeth giving way for bacteria to form cavities in the teeth.

Dentists can help you identify plaque and tartar build up so it can be treated before cavities are formed.

Gum Disease

We asked our friend, Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, KY, about preventing gum disease. Dr. Neda says that gum disease is another common result of plaque and tartar build up. As tartar builds up in the gums, it leads to an infection which leads to the tooth pulling away from the gum. This condition is also known as gingivitis. If gingivitis is left untreated, it can lead to serious gum disease which results in tooth loss. Regular checkups with your dentist will help identify gingivitis and treat it so it doesn’t become too serious.

Maintaining Good Oral Habits

There are certain habits that can cause damage to your teeth. Most individuals aren’t aware of such habits which can lead to damaging of the teeth or other problems. These habits are:

Nail biting
Teeth grinding
Chewing ice
Jaw clenching

Dentists can identify when such habits have an impact on your teeth and can guide you on how to get rid of such habits.

X-ray

Dental X-ray can help dentists see beyond the surface and into what is happening inside the gums. They help them identify when wisdom teeth are coming in, notice impacted teeth, and also bone decay. With regular checkups, the dentist can recommend X-rays when needed to find exactly how healthy your teeth and jawbones are below the surface.

Saves You Money

Regular checkups can help you save a lot of money in the long run. Dental treatments can be costly if they aren’t identified at an early stage. With regular checkups, your dentist can help identify problems and treat them so they don’t become too serious and rack up your dental bills.

Brighter smile

Everyone aims to have a picture-perfect smile. With a regular checkup, your dentist can help you achieve that smile and maintain it. Most dentists even offer discounts on treatments such as cleaning and whitening for regular clients.

There are nothing but benefits when it comes to going for regular checkups. At Dental One Care, Dr. Fardi Farhat and his team ensure to treat every patient with the care they need. There is a growing fear of going to the dentist and we make sure that our patients feel comfortable first before treatments and checkups. To ensure they keep coming back regularly without any fear.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare Tips

June 11, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

The process of tooth extraction can be daunting and scary. But with the right dentist, it can be a breeze. However, caring for your teeth post-extraction is as important as the procedure. To ensure that you heal properly and infection doesn’t occur.

Dr. Fardi Farhat from Dental One Care highlights the do’s and don’ts of tooth extraction aftercare. Which every one should follow post-extraction.

Post Tooth Extraction Do’s

To ease the pain, take some painkillers, ibuprofen.
Get as much rest as you can and don’t exert your body for at least 24 hours after the extraction. While lying down, try to rest your head in an upright position with the help of a pillow.
You want to make sure to let the extraction site clot. After the surgery, make sure to keep the gauze the dentist provides in place and bite down on it. You want to keep it in place for at least an hour which applies pressure to the area of extraction and helps the wound clot and heal. The longer you keep it in the better. But at the same time, make sure you chew as little as possible so there is constant pressure applied on the gauze. You may also want to change the gauze if and when it gets soaked with blood.
Once the gauze is removed, leave the extraction site alone. Meaning doesn’t touch it with your tongue or fingers. This can disrupt the healing process.
To reduce swelling or any pain you may be experiencing, you can apply an ice pack to the face, in the affected area. Keep it applied for 15 minutes and then give it about an hour of rest before you apply it again.
Try to drink as much liquid as possible and only eat food that is soft in texture and easy to chew.

Tooth Extraction Don’ts

We asked our friend Dr. Taher Dhoon, a dentist in Greeley, CO, about tooth extraction don’ts. Dr. Dhoon highly recommends that if you smoke, then don’t for at least 2 days after the extraction. Cigarettes contain chemicals that can lead to a dry socket at the site of extraction.
Don’t have solid food until you can start to feel your jaw again.
Don’t rinse your mouth with saline water solution until at least 12 hours after the surgery. The solution is supposed to help clean and maintain the contents in your mouth but let the gums heal properly before you use it.
Don’t take aspirin, until the extraction area is properly clotted. Since aspirin causes the blood to thin, it can delay the process of clotting.

Tooth extraction is a serious procedure and for an individual to heal properly, it is important that they take care of the area post-surgery. It is important that you contact Sterling Heights dental specialists at Dental One Care if you face any problem post-surgery. You also want to make sure to follow the do’s and don’ts of extraction aftercare.

Causes of Plaque and Tartar

May 31, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Some of the biggest enemies to your oral health are dental plaque and tartar. The primary reason why you brush and floss is to keep these two substances in check. In this article, you’ll discover what plaque and tartar are, how to prevent their buildup and what you can do when problems associated with plaque and tartar arise.

Dental Plaque Defined

The soft, sticky film which accumulates on your teeth is called dental plaque. This biofilm varies in appearance from a colorless substance to looking pale yellow. As saliva, food and other fluids in your mouth combine, they produce bacterial deposits which accumulate in the spaces where your teeth and gums meet.

The bacteria in that plaque generate acidic wastes which can damage your teeth and gums. This damage can progress to a level where it becomes permanent. Dr. Fardi Farhat warns that when plaque isn’t removed promptly, it can become tartar, cause tooth decay and gum disease.

The Connection Between Dental Plaque and Tartar

As time passes, mineral deposits are added to the plaque on your teeth and it will start to harden. This process takes between 24-72 hours. Once it hardens, it becomes tartar and cannot be removed at home by brushing or flossing. Professional help is needed to get rid of tartar.

Research estimates that about 68 percent of all American adults have calculus (tartar). This hard substance is brown or yellow and bonds to the tooth enamel. Experts at Dental One Care reveal that individuals who suffer from dry mouth, have crowded teeth, wear braces, smoke or are advanced in age are more likely to develop tartar. The older one gets, the faster tartar can buildup on the teeth.

How to Spot Dental Plaque’s Early Signs

We asked our friend, Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, KY, about plaque and tartar. Dr. Neda says that it isn’t easy to tell that you have this substance on your teeth. She recommends that you maintain a strict oral hygiene routine of brushing at least two times each day and flossing once every day. In addition to that, visit Dental One Care every six months for professional dental cleanings and checkups.

The dentist will detect any plaque and tartar accumulations during those visits and use different tools, such as a dental scaler, to remove the buildup.

IThe dental visits also give you an opportunity to get brushing and flossing tips in order to deal with any problem areas noticed by the dentist or hygienist attending to you.

Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, suggests that you use plaque disclosing tablets if you want to identify where plaque is accumulating in your mouth while at home. Stains will show in all the places where plaque is present, so you can use this information to pay special attention to those areas while you brush. Don’t worry about the stains from the tablets; they will be removed as you brush.

Complications Related to Plaque and Tartar

It is important to get rid of plaque, otherwise, the acids produced by the plaque bacteria will eat away at your teeth and cause cavities. Additionally, your gums are likely to become inflamed if plaque isn’t eliminated. This gum inflammation is called gingivitis. The presence of plaque in your mouth will also eventually give you bad breath.

Steps to Stop Plaque and Tartar from Accumulating

Use a fluoride toothpaste. Such toothpaste will fight the bacteria responsible for the formation of plaque.
Visit Dental One Care every six months. The professional dental care you receive routinely will reduce the likelihood of developing dental diseases related to the buildup of plaque.
Floss once each day and talk to a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI about helpful tips to cover all the surfaces between your teeth. Try different products, such a water flosser until you find what gives you optimum results.
Upgrade to an electric toothbrush and change its head every three months. Electric toothbrushes do a better job of getting rid of plaque because they deliver thousands of cleaning strokes each minute.
Stop smoking or manage this habit so that you can reduce the amount of the chemicals which accelerate the formation of plaque and tartar.
Use an alcohol-free mouthwash. Select a brand that provides full-spectrum protection from oral bacteria for at least 24 hours.

It is important for you to take a proactive approach when keeping your teeth free from plaque and tartar. Brush, floss and use mouthwash consistently, and then couple this with professional dental cleanings and checkups twice a year. Any tartar that forms on your teeth will then be removed promptly before it triggers other dental health problems. Call Dr. Fardi Farhat at Dental One Care for help in fixing any dental health problem for a lifelong smile.

Types of Floss

May 29, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Types of Floss

Have you recently walked down the grocery store aisle filled with dental floss? The wide variety available today will leave you scrambling through the packaging, trying to figure out which type of floss is right for you.

No matter which type of floss you end up going it, it will likely get the job done as long as you remember to floss at least once a day. But at the same time, each floss has its own benefits. We breakdown the different types of flosses here:

Unwaxed: Made out of thin nylon, this type of floss consists of 35 strands of nylon twisted together. Even with that the floss is thin and can get into spaces between your teeth, no matter how tight. But unwaxed floss tends to break or shred easily.
Waxed: Made out of nylon like unwaxed floss, but this has a coating of wax on it. The wax coating gives the floss a stronger structure which makes it harder to break.
Polytetrafluorethylene floss (PTFE): PTFE is a material that is found in gore-tex fabric. This, of course, means that the material is tough and not easy to shred, making this one of the strongest floss available.
Dental tape: For individuals that have a little more space between their teeth, the dental tape is easier and more comfortable to use. The tape is broader and flatter than your average floss and you have the option to pick between waxed or unwaxed.
Super floss: Made out of yarn-like material, super floss is stiffer than the nylon floss. It is great for use when it comes to cleaning around bridges and braces.

Should you get flavored floss?

All the different types of flosses listed above come with flavored options. The reason why has a lot more to do with the possibility of leaving your mouth feeling minty fresh. The flavor adds an additional element to the floss that both children and adults enjoy. Not only does it leave them with a beautiful smile but also promotes fresher breath, at least the mint flavored flosses do.

Dr. Fardi Farhat from Dental One Care is keen to recommend mint-flavored floss to parents for their children. It takes a dull daily task that kids should be performing and makes it more exciting, adding the flavor of mint. The dentist found that kids are more likely to make flossing a habit when the element of flavor is introduced.

Dental flossers

We asked our friend, Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, about dental flossers. Dr. Green says dental flossers are a popular choice but it’s not for everyone. It may be hard for some to hold the floss in their hands and move it between their teeth, this is especially true for children who have trouble flossing. Dental flossers come with floss attached to a handle. This gives individuals something to hold with a lot more ease when they floss than the string itself. They can gently move the floss between their teeth and parts of their gum line to ensure they get all food particles out and keep their mouths healthy.

Should you get an electric flosser?

Another option for individuals that have trouble with standard floss is electric flossers. These come with an ergonomic handle and can have heads that are either angled or can change angles to ensure you get in between every tooth. The floss has a gentle motion that works on its own to displace any particles present between your teeth. All you have to do is move it up and down once between the teeth.

How Do You Lose Tooth Enamel?

May 27, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Our mouths are exposed to different types of acids throughout the day from the food and liquids we consume. This can lead to acid or enamel erosion, a disease that causes damage to your teeth. The disease is caused by the erosion of the hard tissues of the teeth which leads to sensitivity or pain along with discomfort especially when you eat.

Tooth erosion leading to the loss of tooth enamel

Tooth erosion is one of the most common causes linked to the loss of tooth enamel, the outermost part of your teeth. The enamel is the hard tissue that covers your teeth and protects the root. So when any type of acid comes in contact with your teeth, it impacts the enamel first. Since the enamel has no living cells present, once it is damaged, it cannot repair itself. Once the enamel starts to erode, it exposes the inner parts of the tooth which leads to tooth sensitivity and pain.

Different factors that can lead to loss of tooth enamel

The acid produced by the bacteria that are present in your mouth is one of the leading causes of enamel erosion. The bacteria uses the food you consume to create acids that can be harmful to the enamel. With frequent exposure and bad oral hygiene, the acid can be very damaging leading to the loss of enamel. The following reasons can contribute to damaging the enamel:

Soft drinks: Soft drinks and fruit juices contain acids that can be harmful to your teeth. They have phosphoric and citric acid which can lead to enamel erosion. Therefore, it is recommended that you limit your consumption of soft drinks and juices.
Dry mouth: Individuals that experience dry mouth are more likely to face enamel erosion. The saliva is an important aspect of your oral hygiene as it keeps the acid and bacteria present in check. Without a constant flow of saliva, bacteria and the acid present can be damaging to your teeth.
Bad oral habits: Not brushing or flossing properly or even chewing on items such as pens can gradually impact your teeth’s health.
Gastrointestinal problems: Acid reflux can also lead to the erosion of the enamel. Frequently vomiting or acid reflux exposes your mouth to high levels of acid which can lead to enamel erosion.
Genetics: Your genes also may play a role in leading to tooth erosion.
Medications: Some medications introduce acids to your mouth when consumed such as antihistamines and aspirins. Constantly taking them may lead to enamel erosion.

Identifying Tooth Erosion

Our friend, Dr. Taher Dhoon, a dentist in Greeley, CO, says that there are some telling signs when an individual experiences tooth erosion. Signs of tooth erosion are:

Discoloration: The tooth or teeth that are going through erosion usually are discolored first, in comparison to your other teeth. They will appear to be more yellow than the rest.
Sensitivity: Your tooth or teeth will also become more sensitive especially to hot and cold liquids and food.
Cracks start to appear: Erosion will lead to the edge of your teeth becoming jagged, rough and may even lead to a chipped tooth.

Preventing tooth erosion

Dr. Fardi Farhat from Dental One Care shares with us the best preventative measures for tooth erosion.

Good oral health. The most obvious measure to prevent tooth erosion is to maintain a good oral regimen. This means you brush twice a day and floss at least once. You also want to make sure that at night, you give at least 30 minutes before you brush your teeth after dinner. Before this time period, your enamel is vulnerable and the act of brushing tears away at it.
Limit acidic food intake. You need to limit and monitor the food you consume. Maintaining a healthy diet is key and don’t consume a lot of sugary, soft drinks.
Chew sugar-free gum. Chewing sugar-free gum keeps your mouth active and ensures that there is a constant flow of saliva. But make sure you get sugar-free gum since gum with sugar can lead to the growth of bacteria in your mouth.
Use toothpaste with fluoride. Fluoride helps maintain the health of your teeth and ensures they remain strong.

Problems like enamel erosion can creep up on individuals slowly. That is why it is important that you go get a dental cleaning and regular checkup at your Sterling Heights dentist. They can help identify any problems that may lead to enamel erosion to help you combat it at an early stage. It is also vital that you contact your dentist as soon as you experience any of the signs linked to enamel erosion so your dentist can help you combat it.

Do I have a Dead Tooth?

May 21, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Do I have a Dead Tooth?

A tooth is made up of components that consist of soft and hard tissues. Most people assume that their teeth are not living but they actually are. They have nerves connected to them which can be damaged in the case of an injury or decay. This can lead to a stop of blood flow to your teeth leading to the nerve eventually dying. Dr. Fardi Farhat from Dental One Care in Sterling Heights, MI, provides us with some insights on the dead tooth.

Signs of a dead tooth

As the name suggests, a dead tooth is any tooth that no longer receives a supply of blood from the nerve connected to it. One of the first telling sign of a dead tooth is discoloration along with some pain in either the tooth itself or the gum.

Healthy teeth, in general, are white. But the color may vary depending on how good your oral hygiene is or due to your diet. In either case, all your teeth would have a uniform color, whether it is white, off-white, or slightly yellow.

A tooth that is dying will differ in color than the rest of your teeth. It can be one of many colors, light yellow, grey, brown, or black. It usually starts off looking like a bruised tooth. If not treated, the color will continue to change until the nerve is dead.

While pain isn’t always present, some individuals may experience it. The magnitude of pain differs from one individual to another. Some may feel light pain while others may feel extreme pain. The dying nerve is usually the reason for the pain. But pain and discoloration aren’t the only signs, individuals may also experience:

A constant bad taste in the mouth
Swelling in the gum line
Bad breath

It is vital that you go see a dentist if you experience any of the symptoms listed above.

Causes of a dead tooth

One of the most common causes of a dead tooth is injury or trauma to the tooth. For example, if you trip and fall directly on your face, the fall may have an impact on your tooth. The time frame of a dead tooth to completely die differs depending on the magnitude of the injury. There are cases where the tooth takes a few days to die while others where it takes weeks.

Cavities are another cause of a dead tooth. Bad oral hygiene leads to cavities and if they go untreated then they end up destroying your tooth. The cavities eat away the enamel working their way to the pulp of the tooth. Once they reach the pulp, it becomes infected and restricts the blood flow to the tooth. Dead tooth due to cavities can be very painful.

How to diagnose a dead tooth?

Experts at Dental One Care are always examining patients for discoloration. A dead tooth is usually diagnosed during a regular checkup when there is either discoloration or the patient complains about pain in their tooth or gum. with the help of an X-ray, a dentist can confirm if the patient has a dead tooth or not.

How to treat a dead tooth?

Getting treated for a dead tooth is important. If you don’t seek treatment right away, chances are your tooth could be lost forever and the infection can reach your gums and jawbone. Your treatment options are:

1. Root Canal

The root canal is a treatment that allows the patient to keep their tooth. An opening in the tooth is made for the dentist to access the pulp of the tooth to remove it and clean the infection out. Once the infection is completely eliminated, the roots are sealed and a filling is applied for the small opening.

A crown is usually then placed to ensure the tooth remains healthy. It is used to cover your teeth to protect it from further infections.

2. Extraction

In extreme cases of the dead tooth, in which the tooth is severely damaged, the dentist may need to extract your tooth completely. They can then use denture, bridge, or dental implants to replace the extracted tooth. Depending on which replacement option you go with, the dentist will provide you with details on how to take care of it and if and when it may need to be replaced.

How to manage the pain linked to a dead tooth?

If you experience a lot of pain due to a dead tooth, you can take some precautions on your own to prevent it.

Avoid or limit your intake of hot beverages. Hot liquid will lead to inflammation which triggers the pain in the tooth.
To control the pain, you can take painkillers like ibuprofen.
Avoid eating food that is hard. The act of biting into hard food can aggravate the nerve leading to more pain.

The best way to avoid any further pain is to see a dentist immediately after you experience pain in your tooth. You want to make sure you get it looked at immediately and catch a dead tooth in its early stages.

How to prevent a dead tooth?

We asked our friend, Dr. Cody Cowen, a dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, about preventing a dead tooth. Dr. Cowen says while accidents aren’t always preventable, you can still take measures to reduce the risk of a dead tooth. He gave the following suggestions to prevent a dead tooth:

Good oral hygiene –This is a must, you need to make sure you have a good oral regimen which includes brushing twice a day and flossing at least once.
Regular dental checkups –Make sure to go for regular checkups every six months. Your dentist can easily spot any oral issues and provide you with the best plan to combat it.
Use a mouth guard – If you play any contact sport or take part in an activity that may lead to tooth injury, it is important that you protect them with a mouth guard.
Consume healthy food – Avoid eating foods that contain a lot of sugar which can lead to cavity and tooth decay.
Drink water – Consume at least 8 glasses of water a day.

Conclusion to Do I have a dead tooth?

A dead tooth is a serious oral problem that should be treated at the first sight. Therefore, it is important you contact your dentist if you notice any discoloration in a tooth or experience pain in it. This way the infection can be treated so it doesn’t spread and become more harmful.