Improve Your Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry

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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?

 

Common Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

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6 Common Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

Cosmetic dentistry refers to the professional dental care that specializes in improving the appearance of your teeth, mouth, and smile. These procedures are usually elective (optional), but some cosmetic dental procedures can improve the function of your dental structures. The range of cosmetic dental procedures varies from the simple to the complex procedures as the examples below.

Composite Bonding

Composite bonding is commonly referred to as just “bonding.” This cosmetic dentistry procedure is recommended for individuals who have suffered decay, damage or discoloration to their teeth. Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI will apply the composite material after drilling out the damaged or decayed sections of your teeth. He will sculpt that composite material so that it looks like a natural tooth. The tooth will then be cured using intense light so that it hardens and performs like your other teeth. Bonding is an inexpensive procedure suitable for people with decayed, cracked, chipped or worn down tooth edges.

Dental Veneers

These are fabricated from medical-grade ceramic materials, such as porcelain. They are customized for each patient and look realistic after the placement process. Dental veneers resolve a variety of cosmetic issues, such as gaps between teeth, chipped teeth, and crooked or damaged teeth. Dr. Farhat uses a strong dental adhesive to attach the veneer to the front surface of the affected tooth. This cosmetic dentistry procedure is relatively expensive.

Teeth Whitening

We asked our friend, Dr. Taher Dhoon, a dentist in Greeley, CO, about the most common cosmetic dentistry treatment. Dr. Dhoon says that teeth whitening is by far the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure out there. Your smile can vastly improve just by a simple teeth whitening session. This procedure can be done at home or at the dentist’s office. The cosmetic dentistry procedure should be done once all the plaque and tartar has been removed from your teeth. The bleaching agent used can then act upon the teeth surfaces to get rid of the stains affecting the color of your teeth. The experts at Dental One Care always select the most appropriate teeth whitening products and methods so that you get the results you want. For example, a bride who has a wedding in a few days may require a different approach to another person who doesn’t have an urgent event for which they want whiter teeth.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are the “caps” placed on damaged or worn teeth to preserve their appearance and function. Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI likes to call them a blend of cosmetic and restorative dental work because the crowns will make you look better while easing functionality in the affected teeth. However, these durable cosmetic or restorative devices may not be recommended for teeth in certain parts of the mouth. Such as areas where the bite force exerted is significant since the crowns will be damaged quickly under that pressure.

Dental Implants

This is one of the most expensive cosmetic dentistry procedures. It is an invasive procedure through which a dental implant is placed in the jaw to serve as the root of a missing tooth. After a healing process of up to six months, a crown is placed on this implant so that you can use that restoration in the same way as you would use your natural tooth. The implant fuses with the bone to make the crown very firm. While the implant may last a lifetime, the crown placed on the implant will need to be replaced after ten or more years.

Dental Shaping

This is an exacting cosmetic procedure in which a Sterling Heights dentist files the misshapen tooth using an electric tool. This is so that what is left has a shape that is aesthetically pleasing and matches the rest of your teeth. The main downside of tooth reshaping is that the procedure removes enamel from your teeth. So, this can eventually trigger problems, such as sensitivity, later on.

Visit Dental One Care if you need cosmetic dentistry in Sterling Heights. Dr. Farhat and his team will discuss all the options available and recommend what’s best for you. Did you undergo a cosmetic dentistry procedure elsewhere and issues have developed? No problem, Dental One Care can help!

In Office vs. At Home Teeth Whitening

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You’ve probably thought about whitening your teeth if they have become yellow or discolored over time. However, it is hard to decide between all the different treat whitening options on the market. This article compares in-office whitening and at-home teeth whitening so that you can decide which teeth whitening treatment is suitable for you.

Teeth Whitening Options

In-office teeth whitening is done at your dentist’s office. Your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI starts by discussing your teeth whitening goals. Dr. Farhat will then design a custom teeth whitening tray for you. This tray will contain a whitening agent and the dentist will use a special light or heat to accelerate the action of the whitening solution. Depending on your teeth whitening goals, you may get your desired shade in one to two visits.

In contrast, at-home teeth whitening kits are in the form of toothpaste or trays/strips. These use a bleaching agent whose concentration is lower than what may be used when you choose to whiten your teeth at Dental One Care. The at-home teeth whitening product comes with easy-to-follow instructions, such as explaining how long you should wear the tray each day. In a few weeks or months, your teeth will whiten to the desired level.

Comparison of Cost

It usually costs more to have your teeth whitened at the dentist’s office. This is partly because of the costlier materials used (higher concentrations of bleaching solutions, for example) and the labor required to conduct the procedure. However, this cost is justified when you consider how quickly you will get the desired results. Not to mention the longevity of your pearly white smile.

At-home teeth whitening is usually more affordable because the products are mass-produced and use a lower concentration of bleaching solutions. That notwithstanding, the tradeoff is that you will take longer to get the desired outcomes. 

Comparison of Results

As already mentioned, professional or in-office teeth whitening yields results faster than at-home teeth whitening methods. We asked our friend Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, to compare at-home teeth whitening treatments and in-office teeth whitening treatments. Dr. Kacos says both methods will give the same outcomes, it’s about how quickly you want results. Your teeth are likely to remain white for the same number of years regardless of the method you used to whiten them. The durability of the results will depend on other factors, such as whether you continue to consume foods and drinks, such as coffee, that can stain your teeth again.

Comparison of Side Effects

The fact that at-home teeth whitening kits or products are mass produced means that those products will not be suitable for everyone. For example, Dr. Farhat, a Sterling Heights dentist, reveals that he has encountered patients who complained that their gums felt sore as they wore a teeth whitening tray bought at a drugstore. Such complaints are common because the generic whitening trays often don’t fit the users well. Teeth and gum sensitivity can also result when people use at-home teeth whitening kits.

In-office teeth whitening has a lower chance of triggering side effects because the professional at Dental One Care will first assess you to establish whether you will react to a certain bleaching agent or not. Additionally, you will be under professional observation throughout the teeth whitening procedure. So the possibility of side effects is greatly reduced when you opt to have your teeth whitened by a Sterling Heights dentist.

All in all, both in-office and at-home teeth whitening methods come with their own unique pros and cons. The ultimate decision regarding which option is best for you will depend on your unique circumstances, and the advice given to you by your local Sterling Heights dentist, Dr. Farhat.

Is Charcoal Toothpaste Safe?

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Is Charcoal Toothpaste Safe?

Every now and then, a product or ingredient catches the attention of consumers, and it causes a buzz in different areas of people’s lives. Today, the buzz is activated charcoal and its purported benefits in dentistry. Many brands of toothpaste now contain activated charcoal. These companies claim that such toothpaste can combat bad breath and whiten your teeth. Is charcoal toothpaste safe? This article discusses what dental care professionals like Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI, say about this new trend.

Why the Activated Charcoal Buzz is Spreading

Activated charcoal has some uses in the medical field due to its porous nature. For example, it is often used to manage some forms of poisoning since it can absorb the unwanted substances in the gastrointestinal tract before those toxic substances are absorbed into the bloodstream.

Such medical uses have prompted some people to stretch the purposes for which activated charcoal can be used for. For example, those people reason that a substance which can suck the poison from the GIT can also absorb toxins or stains from your teeth. And that is how the use of this substance on teeth started.

Can Activated Charcoal Be Used on Teeth?

Dr. Farhat reveals that some patients admit that they have seen results by using activated charcoal for teeth whitening. However, the dentist in Sterling Heights recommends caution when using activated charcoal to whiten your teeth because there isn’t any scientific proof about the long-term effects of using activated charcoal in this way.

For example, the Sterling Heights dentist says that no research has been done to establish how activated charcoal will affect the population of good bacteria in the mouth, or how any medication will be affected by the ingestion of activated charcoal.

We asked our friends, Dr. Cody Cowen, a dentist in Baton Rouge, LA about his thoughts on the use of activated charcoal on teeth. Dr. Cowen advises those who insist on using activated charcoal to use it sparingly. For example, use it just once every fortnight. Why this precaution? Dr. Cowen explains that activated charcoal is abrasive, so you risk eroding your enamel each time you brush your teeth with a toothpaste containing it.

Additionally, the dentist in Sterling Heights, MI, advises people with receding gums to avoid toothpaste containing activated charcoal. This is because the toothpaste will accelerate the gum recession and trigger sensitivity in the roots of your teeth.

It is also worthy to note that dental stains are of different types. Activated charcoal cannot whiten teeth that have deep stains. So it would be futile to keep brushing in the hope that your teeth will become whiter. Activated charcoal cannot penetrate the teeth to reach those types of stains.

Experts at Dental One Care also ask people who brush using activated charcoal toothpaste to be observant regarding any changes in their dental health. For example, stop using the toothpaste if your gums bleed as you brush.

The specific product that one selects may also have a role to play in the outcomes registered. Users should, therefore, restrict themselves to products from reputable manufacturers, so that any side-effects resulting from poor-quality materials are avoided.

What Safer Ways Are Available?

Is charcoal toothpaste safe? The jury is  In the meantime, Sterling Heights dentists recommend that you buy an at-home teeth whitening kit, or ask Dr. Farhat to conduct in-office teeth whitening treatment. This method will reduce the risks that you are likely to expose yourself to.

Alternatively, those who want a natural, inexpensive home remedy can take an orange peel and rub its inner surface against the teeth. This method is safe, although results may take longer to show.

I guess you now have the answers (and more) to the question “Is charcoal toothpaste safe?” Use the information above to make an informed decision if you ever wish to whiten your teeth using charcoal toothpaste. Better still, talk to a professional at Dental One Care so that you can get the help you need without taking unnecessary risks with your dental health.

The Pros and Cons of Teeth Whitening Treatments

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The Pros and Cons of Teeth Whitening Treatments

Are you uncomfortable about the discoloration of your teeth and you want to select a teeth whitening treatment to improve your smile? Read on and discover the pros and cons of some of the common procedures that are available for whitening your teeth in Sterling Heights.

Teeth Whitening Strips

You can whiten your teeth by applying teeth whitening strips on your teeth for about half an hour each day. The procedure may require up to two weeks for results to show. Some brands of teeth whitening strips don’t need to be removed from the teeth since those strips can dissolve.

Teeth whitening strips have several advantages. First, they are suitable for people with sensitive gums since these strips contain a small amount of bleaching agents. Secondly, the strips are affordable and can be bought from any drugstore, pharmacy or dentist in Sterling Heights. Teeth whitening strips are also convenient because you can choose when you apply them each day.

However, teeth whitening strips also have some shortcomings. For example, the strips only whiten the teeth surfaces that they touch. Consequently, hard-to-reach segments of the teeth, such as the areas between teeth, may remain untouched by the strips. Secondly, they aren’t suitable for someone who wants quick results since the mild bleaching agent requires about two weeks for results to show.

Teeth Whitening Mouthwashes

You can also use teeth whitening mouthwashes to get a brighter smile. These mouthwashes contain a mild solution of hydrogen peroxide. The usage instructions vary from one manufacturer to another, but they generally require the user to rinse the mouth twice a day (after brushing). You simply swish the mouthwash in your mouth for about a minute.

Teeth whitening mouthwashes have the advantage of only requiring about two minutes each day. The teeth whitening mouthwashes are also mild on your enamel as they work to whiten your teeth. Furthermore, the rinses eliminate bad breath.

However, teeth whitening mouthwashes require longer (more than a month) for results to show since you only swish that product briefly in your mouth. The teeth whitening mouthwash may also irritate your gums due to the high amount of alcohol in the mouth rinse.

In-Chair Teeth Whitening

Another alternative to whitening your teeth is the in-chair whitening treatment at the office of your dentist in Sterling Heights. Your dentist will apply a teeth whitening gel and accelerate its effectiveness by shining a UV light on your teeth. You will have your brighter smile in just an hour.

In-chair teeth whitening produces instant results. Additionally, the controlled dental office environment in which the treatment is done ensures that adequate precautions will be taken to protect you from any risks associated with the whitening gel. The method is also convenient since you can have whiter teeth in just an hour.

However, in-chair teeth whitening does have its drawbacks. For example, this method is the most expensive among the teeth whitening options available in Sterling Heights. Secondly, not everyone can undergo the treatment since the dentist must first assess you for any risk factors, such as gum disease, which can make the treatment unsafe for you. The outcomes of in-chair dental whitening aren’t permanent, so you may need to repeat the treatment every two years.

At-Home Dental Whitening Kits

At-home teeth whitening kits usually contain a dental tray, a bleaching gel as well as an accelerator light. Your task is to follow the usage instructions provided and wear the dental tray for anywhere between half an hour to a full hour each day. You can see results in about a week.

Dental experts at Horizon Dental Group agree that one big advantage of at-home teeth whitening kits is that you can achieve professional-looking results from the comfort of your home. The kits can also turn your teeth several shades brighter within a week. The dental whitening kits are affordable when compared to getting the same results during an in-chair treatment. 

The biggest drawback of at-home teeth whitening kits is that the outcomes will vary depending on the quality of the product that you purchase. Many people also find it inconveniencing to set aside about an hour each day to wear the tray.

As you can see, each teeth whitening treatment comes with its own unique pros and cons. It is therefore advisable for you to contact a dentist in Sterling Heights or any nearby dentist for advice on the best option to use. You will then get the smile of your dreams cost-effectively.

 

Does Charcoal teeth whitening work?

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The Truth About Charcoal Teeth Whitening

Traditionally, activated charcoal is found in air filters. Also, poison control centers and hospitals use it as a form of treatment for a drug overdose or accidental poisoning.

Today, people claim that using this powdery black substance will whiten your teeth.

Is Charcoal Teeth Whitening Effective?

Medical professionals gave warning against subscribing to this charcoal teeth whitening trend. This method involves smearing a charcoal-derived black mixture on your teeth. In fact, this became an online sensation after some vloggers posted videos detailing its execution on YouTube. But dental professionals say that this method might lead to tooth erosion and enamel deterioration.

Hospitals are using activated charcoal to treat patients suffering from accidental poisoning since it absorbs the harmful chemical ingested and safely removes it from the body. However, this does not necessarily mean that the same reasoning works for your teeth. There is no evidence proving that it can absorb toxins, bacteria, and staining, thus making your teeth whiter.

Some users might say that the use of a charcoal-derived whitening product is effective, but the long-term internal effect might harm other people’s teeth. The American Dental Association haven’t evaluated nor approved any charcoal teeth whitening products. The product’s abrasiveness is not known. Furthermore, activated charcoal does not deliver fluoride.

Dental professionals further emphasized that teeth are part of the ectoderm that doesn’t heal itself or replenish. On the other hand, you can shave your eyebrows, you can color your hair, or even pierce your skin — and all of these will heal, grow back or return almost entirely to their original state.

There is a huge difference between using approved dental tools and a DIY remedy like charcoal teeth whitening. Approved products will seep through the enamel and the tooth’s inner layer (dentin), thus influencing the color of your tooth. On the other hand, the charcoal-derived product might leave your teeth blotchy or stained. Moreover, it might lead to tooth erosion and deterioration, resulting in cavities and sensitivity. Once you lose enamel, it can’t grow back, so the only solution is to cover it up with a dental restoration.

To avoid these risks, a reputable Sterling Heights dentist recommends opting for tested teeth whitening solutions. You can schedule a regular teeth whitening appointment at your dentist’s office. Also, you can purchase at-home teeth whitening trays recommended by your dentist.

There are better and proven options to whiten your teeth. Instead of wasting your money on DIY charcoal teeth whitening, consult your dentist about the teeth whitening option that works best for you.

7 possible reasons for tooth pain

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Why does my tooth hurt?

The average person will suffer from mild to extreme toothaches several times during his or her lifetime. The severity or pain level usually depends on the cause behind a toothache.

If you’re thinking “Why does my tooth hurt?” every now and then, a trusted Sterling Heights dentist shares some possible reasons below:

Tooth decay

The most common cause of toothaches is tooth decay. However, for the tooth and the surrounding area to really hurt, the decay in the tooth would have to be significant enough that it has already reached the inner layer of the tooth — the dentin. Once the dentin is damaged, the tooth becomes highly sensitive and a cavity has already developed.

Tooth abscess or infection

If a cavity has already affected the root beneath the visible tooth, the root and the surrounding tissue will soon become infected. This, in turn, can cause a pulsating and unbearable pain. This is a dental issue that needs to be dealt with professionally as soon as possible since not only is it extremely painful, but it can also result in bone and tissue loss.

Sensitive teeth

If you feel a sharp tooth pain during or after eating or drinking something cold or hot, the pain is usually connected to tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity usually means that your tooth enamel has worn down and your tooth’s dentin (the layer where the tooth’s nerves are) is exposed. This dental issue can also be caused by a recent teeth whitening procedure. To reduce this level of sensitivity, you can try using toothpaste made for sensitive teeth. You can also consult your dentist for other possible remedies.

Damaged fillings

Damaged or dislodged dental fillings or sealants which can expose the sensitive part of your tooth to temperatures, food and drinks can create sharp pains. Your dentist can immediately repair or replace the dental filling or sealant so that you can be free of pain quickly.

Dental trauma or fracture

If you injure, fracture, crack or chip a tooth because of a sports injury, accident, or from biting a really hard object, you will feel an intense toothache. If the pain is intolerable, this usually means that the fracture or damage has made its way to the middle of the tooth where the nerve endings are. Recommended treatments for this painful oral issue include dental fillings and dental crowns.

Growing wisdom teeth

When your wisdom teeth are starting to erupt or if they have already crowned, they can cause teeth misalignment and push against the other teeth. This typically places pressure on your jaws and gums which causes the pain. Extracting the wisdom teeth and other orthodontic treatments will provide you relief from the pain.

Sinus infection

Lastly, if you suffer from sinuses, regular nasal congestion and tenderness in your upper jaw can also cause toothaches. Your dentist and medical practitioner will have to work together to find the most suitable remedy for this problem.

Even if the pain you are feeling is bearable and often comes and goes, it is best to consult your dentist immediately. There may be some underlying and more severe dental issues behind the pain and your dentist is the best person to detect and treat them.

National Gum Care Month: 5 Tips To Prevent Gum Disease

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September is the National Gum Care Month!

Now is the time to educate yourself about the early signs of gum disease and review the different habits that can help keep your mouth clean and healthy.

Early Signs of Gum Disease

  • Gums are swollen and red in certain places
  • Gums bleed easily when brushing
  • Gums feel tender
  • Gums have begun to pull away from the edges of the teeth

Gingivitis is initially painless. It takes time to develop into a noticeable problem. You can prevent gum disease with basic and simple oral hygiene measures.

5 Ways to Prevent Gum Disease

1. Brush at least twice a day

The sticky plaque will build up on your teeth continuously. If it is left there for hours, it will develop into tartar. Both plaque and tartar can contribute to gum disease.

2. Don’t forget to floss

Floss every day. Although brushing can prevent plaque from building up on your teeth, flossing will keep the area below the gum line clean and healthy.

You can use a water irrigator or a dental water jet. This is a device that can shoot streams of water between your teeth in order to completely remove bacteria and plaque.

3. Use mouthwash

Mouthwash should not be a substitute for brushing and flossing. However, if this is used along with other healthy oral care habits, it can eliminate bacteria. Also, it can keep your breath fresh and your teeth strong.

4. Eat nutritious meals

A healthy and balanced diet that is rich in nutrients and vitamins but low in sugar will boost your immune system. Also, this will help your body fight against harmful bacteria, infection, and inflammation. Eat greens to keep your teeth white.

5. Visit your dentist regularly

You must see your dentist twice a year for a good cleaning. During your visit, your dentist will also assess the health of your gums and teeth. If you are experiencing any problems, he will refer you to a reputable periodontist.

Early prevention and treatment of gum disease are crucial. When left unchecked and untreated, it can destroy your gums, teeth, connective tissues, and bones. Most importantly, this can greatly contribute to various health problems. So make sure to keep all of these activities as part of your day-to-day oral care regimen to keep gum diseases at bay.

If you are concerned about your oral health, schedule an appointment with a reputable Sterling Heights dentist now.

8 Fun Facts About Digital Dental X Rays

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8 Fun Facts About the History of Digital Dental X Rays

Growing up, you may have been taught that exposure to any form of radiation is harmful for human beings. In history books and on the news, you have likely seen its horrifying effects on people. Radiation can affect the body in a number of ways, but this also depends on the amount you are exposed to. In small doses, radiation has been used in medicine to detect and treat a host of ailments, from hyperthyroidism to cancer.

Radiation can be found in a wide range of medical and dental tools, and X-rays are one of them. Learn more about x-rays and the good side of radiation with these interesting facts about digital dental x rays.

  1. Radiation can be found all us — in the air we breathe as well as on the walls, floors and ceilings made of cement, stone or bricks. It is also emitted by a number of devices including watches, TV sets and computers. Human beings have been exposed to radiation since before they were born. When talking about exposure, the amount of radiation should also be considered.
  2. People are exposed to radiation on a daily basis. Even the amount of radiation you are exposed to when going about your day is several times higher than what you would get during a typical x-ray session. To put it into perspective, the amount of radiation a person is exposed to on a daily basis is the equivalent of taking 950 digital x-rays.
  3. Using natural gas to cook food produces more radiation than making a dental x-ray.
  4. X-rays have been around for more than a century. They were first discovered in 1895, the same year the first dental x-ray images were produced.
  5. Machines have evolved over the years. Today’s machines are smaller, faster, more efficient and safer to use. Newer sensor-based machines use about a tenth the amount of radiation that the traditional film-based machines did.
  6. X-ray images show what your teeth, bone and supporting tissues look like on the inside. Dentists use them to find cavities, look at the roots of each tooth, and see if you have any oral health issues.
  7. Radiation safety measures emphasize the importance of using ALARA — As Low As Reasonably Achievable levels when taking dental x-rays.
  8. Because images are now in digital form, it has become easier for medical and dental personnel to share images and collaborate on what treatment to use.

You can learn more about radiation and its benefits from your Sterling Heights dentist.

Call us today to schedule an appointment with one of our dentists.

What do White Spots on Teeth Mean?

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white spots

What White Spots On Teeth Mean

Everyone wants to have white teeth. They are some of the best natural accessories you can present to the people around you to feel more confident. Because of this, many often visit their dentist to undergo teeth whitening treatments, or decide to pick the DIY option.

White spots on teeth, however, can have a different effect on a person’s smile. If they are numerous, they become too unappealing and will have a negative impact on your smile. Aside from this, though, most of the time these spots shouldn’t really be a cause for concern.

Causes

Discovering the cause behind the white spots on your teeth is a good step to know if you should start worrying about this dental issue or not. A dentist in Sterling Heights explains the usual causes of white spots on teeth below:

  • Flourisis. This is a dental condition common among children which damages the tooth’s enamel due to excessive intake of fluoride before their teeth are fully developed. People who often drink water with high fluoride content are also prone to getting white spots on their teeth.
  • Decalcification. In certain cases, white spots can also be a sign that a cavity or tooth decay is beginning. The spots will appear where the tooth is weaker, usually toward the bottom of your tooth where your gums are. If you are particularly fond of eating and drinking sugary and acidic food or beverages, your teeth will more likely develop these white spots due to mineral loss. Decalcification is also known as plaque buildup.
  • Plaque buildup. Failing to make sure your teeth is completely clean, particularly before going to sleep, can cause hard, scaly spots to appear near the gum line. They can appear as spots and will cause your teeth to look more discolored.
  • Brace removal. Lastly, some persons with orthodontic braces usually have trouble properly brushing their teeth. Because of this, it is highly likely that there was a plaque build-up which can now be easily seen after having their braces removed. In this instance, the white spots have already developed or will turn into cavities.

Treatment Options

A visit to your dentist can help you determine the cause behind the white spots on your teeth. Once this has been identified, your dentist will recommend the best treatment option.

If the spots are plaque, you will have to undergo oral prophylaxis. Bleaching and fluoride treatments are usually the first procedures a dentist will recommend if a less invasive option would be sufficient. For more difficult cases, an air abrasion procedure may be needed. Under this treatment option, the dentist will use a device that blows crystal particles toward the calcium deposit. Because of the high speed or force, the calcium deposit will be removed from the teeth without causing any damage.

If air abrasion still doesn’t work or the spots are too big, you may need fillings to cover them. A dentist can also recommend dental veneers or caps to cover up the spots.

Practicing good oral hygiene also plays an important role in preventing the appearance of white spots. Regular brushing and flossing will help you avoid plaque and cavity buildup. It is also important to visit your dentist every six months so that any possible dental issues can be checked, diagnosed, and treated immediately. Call us today to schedule an appointment!

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