Dentist in Sterling Heights MI Archives | Sterling Heights Dentist, Dr. Farhat of Dental 1 Care

What is Gum Disease?

October 17, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Gum disease is an infection that affects the tissues that support and surround your teeth. This condition is one of the leading causes of tooth loss among adults. Gum disease is normally painless, so many people have gum disease but don’t realize it. Another name for gum disease is periodontal disease. In this article, the experts at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights answer your question: what is gum disease?

Warning Signs of Gum Disease

Gums That Bleed Easily. Are you one of those people whose gums bleed when you brush, floss, or even when you bite into crunchy food? These are all signs that suggest early stages of gum disease.
Tender, Swollen and Red Gums. These are signs of inflammation, and inflammation is the body’s way of dealing with an infection. You should therefore visit Dental One Care for a professional evaluation as soon as you notice these signs.
Large Gingival Pockets. Gingival pockets are the tiny gaps between your teeth and gums. If these gaps become large, that is a sign that you could be suffering from gum disease.
A Persistent Bad Taste in the Mouth or Bad Breath. You could be suffering from gum disease if you have bad breath despite all your efforts to maintain oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing once each day. Gum disease can also leave a bad taste in your mouth, so consult our team in Sterling Heights dentist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.
Loose or Separating Teeth. As mentioned earlier, gum disease affects the tissues around the teeth. As the disease progresses, the support provided to the teeth will reduce and your teeth will start becoming loose in their sockets.
Changes to Your Bite. If your teeth no longer meet properly as you eat, that could be a sign that gum disease has affected the alignment of your teeth. By the time this happens, the condition may have progressed and you need to visit Dental One Care urgently so that your natural teeth can be saved, if possible.

Factors That Increase Your Risk for Gum Disease

Poor Oral Hygiene. When you aren’t diligent about maintaining oral hygiene through brushing and flossing as recommended by the experts at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights, you increase your risk of developing gum disease because plaque will form more rapidly on your teeth.
Using Tobacco. People who smoke or chew tobacco stand a high chance of getting gum disease. This is because these tobacco products interfere with the process of saliva production, leading to oral bacteria thriving in your mouth and causing gum disease.
Crooked Teeth. If you have crooked teeth, you may find it difficult to clean all surfaces of those teeth and that can give gum disease a chance to develop.
Pregnancy. The hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy increase the likelihood that a woman will develop gum disease. Dentists in Sterling Heights recommend that pregnant women be extra vigilant in taking care of their oral health to avert gum disease.
Diabetes. People who suffer from diabetes are also at a higher risk of developing gum disease. This may be because the elevated blood sugar levels limit the ability of the immune system to respond quickly when gum disease sets in.
Medications. Some medications, such as oral contraceptives, cancer treatments and some epilepsy drugs have been associated with a higher risk of gum disease. It is therefore prudent for you to alert your Sterling Heights dentist about any medication that you are taking so that the right precautions can be taken to safeguard you from gum disease.
Gum disease usually manifests through three different stages. The first stage is called gingivitis. This stage of the disease is easily reversible if you go to Dental One Care for professional teeth cleaning services and you then become more vigilant about brushing and flossing on a daily basis. Gingivitis is characterized by bleeding gums that are swollen and red.

Moderate Periodontal Disease

The second stage of gum disease is called moderate periodontal disease. At this time, the gingival pockets get bigger and the characteristics of gingivitis get more pronounced. During this stage, some people develop bad breath as well. The professionals at Dental one Care can treat this stage of the disease through root planing and scaling. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to tame the infection and prevent it from spreading.

We asked our friends at Surfside Kids Dental, a pediatric dentist in Elk Grove, about gum diesase. They said that if moderate periodontal disease isn’t treated, it will progress and become advanced periodontal disease. At this time, your teeth may be noticeably loose. You may also find it hard to eat using the side of the most affected teeth. At this point, the treatment options available will depend on how far the disease has progressed. So, get to a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI as soon as possible.

The best way to prevent gum disease is by following an oral health routine. First, do your part in taking care of your oral health at home by brushing two times each day and flossing once a day. Secondly, visit Dental One Care every six months for a dental checkup and a professional cleaning of your teeth. Those dental visits will also help our professionals to detect any developing problems early so that timely treatment can be administered. In this way, you will retain your perfect smile for many decades to come!

What to Expect for Root Canal

September 12, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Many of us dread hearing the word root canal. Many wonder what to expect for root canal treatment. When you think of the procedure to correct a root canal, pain may come to mind. However, though a certain level of discomfort is expected, excessive pain is not normal.

Lucky for us, modern technology now allows us to save our natural tooth while going through the procedure in a typically pain-free and easy manner. The use of anesthetics makes this procedure of root canals a lot more safe and quick.

However, to avoid letting the tooth get to an extreme, it is advised to seek professional help in the event of a toothache. Also, stay on top of your check-ups and teeth cleanings. At Dental One Care, we recommend a check-up before an infection has spread throughout the root system.

Fast facts on pain after a root canal:

Our tooth is preserved while only the diseased tissue is treated
Prior to the procedure, an anesthetic is given to the patient. Therefore, the pain is decreased to levels equivalent to that of a basic filling.
In the case of failure, redoing a root canal can help in fixing the problem

How much pain is normal?

A slight feeling of tenderness or sensitivity is expected for a few days. The reasons for this are:

Tissues around your gums remain swollen and inflamed. Although the nerve root may have been removed, there may still be small nerves in ligaments that surround the tooth.
Dental instruments may have irritated the area surrounding the tooth, which will cause some tenderness.
The tooth can experience pain and soreness if the case of a filling is too high or even slightly higher than the surrounding teeth.

In most scenarios, the sensitivity and possible discomfort that you may experience from the root canal is expected to go away in a week or two at most.

If you are experiencing persisting pain and extreme levels of discomfort, it is important to contact us immediately, and Dr. Fadi Farhart will meet with you as soon as possible.

The reason why pain may still persist could be due to some of the following reasons:

A leakage in the restoration
Unhygienic dental conditions and poor oral health
Tooth cracking or breaking down
The existence of an extra canal that goes unnoticed by the endodontist
Error made by the dentist or endodontist

Managing root canal pain at home

We asked our friend, Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, Kentucky, about managing root canal pain at home. Dr. Neda suggests using over the counter prescription for pain management can be sufficient for relieving discomfort after the procedure. Also, don’t forget to practice good oral hygiene by flossing and brushing regularly.

How is a root canal performed?

First, an endodontist takes an X-ray of the tooth before the procedure. Next, a local anesthetic is given to numb the gum area where an opening is made to access the structure inside. A rubber-like substance is used to fill the root canal, called gutta-percha, which is then sealed within the tooth. Then, a temporary filling is placed to protect the insides during the healing process.

Overcoming Your Fear of the Dentist

September 4, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Have you ever been too scared to go to your dentist? Understanding where your fear comes from can help you overcome your fear. Experiencing a phobia for absolutely anything can hinder your functionality. In the case of oral care, our dental health can immensely suffer at the cost of your fears.

Undesired experiences and troublesome results can be some of the few reasons as to why you may be afraid of going back to your dentist. Try not to panic and worry. You will not benefit you in any way and may lead to severe pain instead. No one wants to inflict upon themselves irreversible damage and so, seeking dental help is our best and only option.

Dental Advances

Over the years, dental technology and dental treatments have evolved. At Dental One Care, we are increasingly aware and are equipped to cater to our patients’ anxiety. We’ve designed our offices to be a welcoming and calm environment. Additionally, the technology we use will help you feel calm and at ease. Rest assured, you will feel right at home.

Coping With and Easing Your Fear of the Dentist

We asked our friend Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, Kentucky, for tips on overcoming your dental phobia. Together, Dr. Fardi Farhat and Dr. Neda recommend the following tips:

Have a discussion with your Sterling Height dentist and share your concerns. Working together in easing your worries can make you feel more relaxed at Dental One Care.
Consider taking upon the approach of relaxation techniques that help soothe the nerves.
Try music for distraction as well as blocking out sounds that may cause you to panic
Come up with a signal for your Sterling Heights dentist to stop or resume in the case of worry, panic or discomfort.

Talk to Your Sterling Heights Dentist

If you are a patient in Sterling Heights, MI, and you are feeling overwhelmed or a sense of panic at the dentist, let our Dental One Care team know. Your comfort and safety is always our number one priority. For more information about our dental services or overcoming your fear of the dentist, contact Dr. Fardi Farhat at Dental One Care today.

Ways to Prevent Cavities

August 26, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

While no one deliberately sets out to develop a cavity in their teeth, millions are diagnosed and treated for cavities each year. The problem is that some people seek help when the cavities have become very deep and caused additional dental problems, such as gum disease and dental abscesses. It is therefore apparent that the best course of action to take is to follow a preventive path so that you reduce your likelihood of damaging your teeth. Here are some measures that the dental professionals at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights recommend to ward off cavities.

Regular Brushing

The easiest and arguably most effective way to prevent cavities is by brushing your teeth as recommended by Dr. Fardi Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI. Brushing your teeth twice a day will prevent plaque from forming on the teeth. In turn, this will reduce the chance that oral bacteria will breed on and damage your teeth (resulting in cavities). To ensure that you never miss to brush your teeth, develop a habit of keeping a tube of toothpaste and a toothbrush in your bag.

Use the Right Toothpaste

Look at the different types and brands of toothpaste offered at your local convenience store. To get the best toothpaste, narrow down your requirements to the basics. For example, look for a toothpaste that contains fluoride since fluoride has been documented to have cavity-fighting abilities. Secondly, check for the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval. Such a quality mark is an indicator that the toothpaste has been tested and was found to help maintain your dental health.

Floss Daily and Use Mouthwash

We asked our friend, Dr. Matt Laurich, a dentist in Canton, MI, about ways to prevent cavities. Dr. Laurich says flossing daily and using mouthwash is just as important as brushing your teeth. Brushing your teeth may, on its own, not be sufficient to keep your teeth safe from cavities. This is because you may not reach all parts of your teeth as you brush. Those hard-to-reach areas of your teeth, such as within the space between two teeth. This is where using mouthwash and flossing comes in. Dental floss and mouthwash complement brushing beautifully because they clean where the toothbrush hasn’t reached. So, make sure that you use mouthwash daily, and also floss once each day to keep your teeth clean and free from cavities.

Don’t Miss Regular Dental Visits

Seeing a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI regularly is one of the ways through which you can prevent cavities. Generally speaking, it is advisable to see a dentist every six months for a dental cleaning, a checkup, and possibly dental polishing. However, Dr. Fardi Farhat hastens to add that the recommended interval between routine dental visits will be tweaked based on your specific circumstances. For instance, a person with a higher risk of cavities (someone suffering from dry mouth, for example) may be advised to visit a dentist once every three or four months. Visit Dental One Care you will stand a higher chance of preventing cavities or getting prompt treatment when cavities are discovered during a dental exam.

Consider Dental Sealants

You may not be aware of it, but the surface of your teeth isn’t exactly smooth. Teeth have tiny pores that can trap food particles and harbor bacteria. As this bacteria feeds, it secretes acids that corrode tooth surfaces and create cavities.

One way that dentists recommend to prevent cavities is by applying dental sealants to the teeth, so that food particles and bacteria are prevented from accessing the tiny holes on the teeth. When dental sealants are well cared for, they can work effectively for even ten years, and this added protection will shield you from cavities as well as preserve your teeth from discoloration.

Stay Hydrated

Taking enough water each day is good for your dental health in several ways. First, you will be able to produce enough saliva to keep your mouth free from the bacteria that can cause cavities. Secondly, as you take the water, any food particles and bacteria present in the oral cavity will be flushed down your stomach. Most municipalities add fluoride to the water supply, and this helps to kill oral bacteria while also strengthening the enamel on your teeth. In short, take as much water as you can and your overall health, including your dental health, will be better.

Keep Sugar-Free Gum Close

The experts at Dental One Care also recommend that you chew sugar-free gum if you like chewing gum. This gum will stimulate the production of saliva in your mouth and will also dislodge any food particles that may be stuck on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. The increased saliva production and the removal of food particles aids your fight in keeping cavities at bay.

Quit Smoking

Smoking interferes with the chemical balance in the mouth. This habit also makes it harder for blood to flow through the vessels in your gums. Meaning, that your defenses against cavity-causing bacteria are compromised. Smoking also predisposes people to different forms of cancer, such as oral cancer and lung cancer. Dentists in Sterling Heights reveal that when you stop smoking, you significantly reduce your chance of not only cavities but other dental health problems like tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and infections.

Adjust Your Diet

You can also prevent cavities by minimizing the amount of sugary foods and drinks that you consume. Dr. Fardi Farhat singles out fizzy drinks, cakes, fruit juice, alcohol, and other processed foods as examples of food items which will increase your risk of cavities.

You should increase your intake of dental-friendly food items like fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, unsweetened tea, and unsweetened coffee so that your body can get the nutrients that it needs to fight oral bacteria and keep your teeth strong.

You can never let your guard down during the fight against cavities because any mistake you make will set the cavity-forming process in motion. With Dental One Care as your ally in this fight, you can be sure that everything possible will be done to protect you against this threat. If you suspect that you have cavities, call Dr. Fardi Farhat today, and the dentist in Sterling Heights will provide the necessary treatment.

How to Close a Gap in Your Teeth

July 10, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Despite all your efforts to maintain the highest level of dental hygiene, you may be horrified to see a gap developing between two teeth. Such gaps can feel larger than they actually are, especially if they are between your front teeth. Fortunately, a gap in your teeth can be fixed. In this article, we discuss why these gaps develop, as well as highlighting the available treatment options at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights, MI.

Common Causes of Gaps Between Teeth

Diastemas, or gaps in teeth, commonly occur between the front teeth but can also appear between any other two teeth in your mouth due to one or more of the following factors;

Mismatched jawbone and teeth sizes

Extra space can develop between teeth if the size of the jaw bone is too large or too small relative to the size of the teeth. Dr. Fardi Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI, explains that this mismatch between the size of the teeth and the jaw bone can also cause one’s teeth to crowd.

Undersized or missing teeth

See a Sterling Heights dentist as soon as you lose a tooth or several teeth because this condition may cause gaps to develop between your remaining teeth. Experts at Dental One Care explain that when you lose a tooth, the adjacent teeth may move towards the gap left. As these teeth move, they create gaps between themselves and the teeth nearest to them. Gaps may also result from one or more teeth that are smaller than those nearest to them.

An overgrown labial frenum

The labial frenum is a piece of flesh that grows from the upper lip to the gums. If this tissue grows excessively, it can extend to the middle of your front teeth and prevent the natural progression of the process through which this gap is closed.

Bad habits

When you suck your thumb, constantly hold a pencil between your teeth, or engage in any other bad oral habit, you may develop a gap between your front teeth. Dr. Fardi Farhat cautions parents to wing-off their child from pacifiers once necessary.

An abnormal swallowing reflex

Dentists in Sterling Heights explain that under normal circumstances, the tongue automatically presses against the roof of the mouth while you swallow. However, some people’s swallowing reflex can cause gaps to form between the front teeth affected each time an individual swallows.

Periodontal disease

Gum or periodontal disease can progress to a point at which gum recession starts taking place. Bone loss can also occur when gum disease is left untreated. When that happens, teeth can become loose and move, causing gaps.

Treatment Options for Gapped Teeth

Dental Bonding

One of the easiest, most economical, and fastest ways to treat gapped teeth is by dental bonding. In this simple procedure, tooth-colored material is placed on the tooth before using a special light to harden or cure the material. The process of curing the resin makes it form a strong bond with the tooth, thereby closing the gap.

Bonding has several other benefits, such as being reversible and requiring just one visit. Dr. Fardi Farhat cautions that the bonding resin used can develop chips and cracks easily, so great care must be taken to preserve these restorations.

Use of Dental Veneers

Your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI, can also recommend dental veneers to close the gaps between your teeth. This process is relatively invasive since it requires some enamel to be removed from the front surface of your teeth in order to make room for the thin porcelain (or other material) veneer that will be cemented onto the teeth.

Veneers also mask other imperfections that you may have on your teeth, such as minor chips and cracks. Dr. Farhat, Sterling Heights’ dentist, also adds that veneers are more durable than bonding since they are made from stronger materials.

However, the use of dental veneers is an irreversible process because the teeth are weakened by the removal of a thin layer of enamel. The veneers protect the teeth after the removal of enamel and sustain the functionality of the teeth.

Orthodontics

Another way to fix gaps, especially severe gaps, involves undergoing orthodontic treatment. For example, you may wear traditional braces or newer orthodontic devices like Invisalign to move all your teeth so that all the gaps are closed at once.

The only downside that Dr. Farhat points out regarding this form of treatment is that the treatment process takes longer than the time required to fix the problem compared to using another method, such as veneers or bonding.

Don’t let the gaps in your teeth affect the beauty and functionality of your smile. Schedule an appointment at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights, MI, and the experienced professionals at the office will recommend the most cost-effective treatment option based on your unique circum

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.

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.

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.

Do I Need a Dental Crown?

April 18, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Do I Need a Dental Crown?

You may be wondering why some people have dental crowns. Dental One Care is here to give you all the information that you need in order to understand why or when you should ask your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI for these dental restorations. Crowns are some form of dental “cap” that is placed on a tooth for different reasons explained below.

Reasons Why Dental Crowns Are Placed

Cosmetic Purposes of Dental Crowns

Covering Crooked Teeth: A dental crown may be placed on one of your teeth in order to cover that unsightly, crooked tooth at the front of your mouth.
Masking Stained Teeth: Dr. Farhat says that you can also have a dental crown placed if your tooth is so badly stained that no form of teeth whitening treatment can restore its brightness.

Functional Purposes of Dental Crowns

Supporting Weakened Teeth: Your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI may recommend crowns in order to support the teeth that have been weakened for different reasons, such as severe decay or cracks resulting from a previous accident. Root canal therapy also weakens teeth, so the Sterling Heights dentist may place a temporary crown on the affected tooth until it is stronger.
Single Tooth Restorations: Crowns are also ideal for single tooth restorations, i.e. when you lose a tooth and replace its root with an implant. In this case, the crown will form the upper part of the dental restoration.

Heavily Filled Teeth: Teeth that have decayed seriously may be filled heavily in order to restore functionality to them. In this case, your teeth can be covered with a crown in order to give them structural strength after the heavy filling.

Are All Dental Crowns Permanent?

In terms of lifespan, dental crowns can be divided into temporary and permanent crowns as explained below.

Temporary Crowns: These crowns aren’t intended to stay on your teeth for long. For example, the dentist in Sterling Heights, MI may place a temporary crown on your tooth while you wait for the permanent one to be made by a dental lab. These temporary crowns are usually made from aluminum, steel or composites. The crowns can be made at Dental One Care or they may be prefabricated and kept at the dental office for any patient who needs them.
Permanent Crowns: Permanent crowns are designed to last for several years once they are installed. These crowns are usually made in a dental lab.

The Pros and Cons of Different Dental Crown Materials

We asked our friend, Dr. Taher Dhoon, a dentist in Greeley, CO about the pros and cons of different dental crown materials. Dr. Dhoon says temporary crowns are generally made from less expensive materials while permanent crowns are usually made from stronger materials that tend to be more expensive. He says to keep in mind that each material has its own benefits and potential drawbacks as the discussion below shows.

The Pros and Cons of Metallic Dental Crowns

The Advantages: First, metallic crowns are thin, so less enamel will be removed from your natural tooth during the preparation stage prior to placing the crown. Secondly, metallic crowns are durable and that is why they are the materials of choice when permanent crowns are being fabricated. Thirdly, Dr. Farhat reveals that metallic crowns are very strong which makes them suitable for placing on teeth that undergo a lot of stress while you chew. Examples of metals used to make crowns include gold alloys, nickel-chromium alloys, and cobalt-chromium alloys.
The Downsides: Sterling Heights dentists explain that metallic crowns aren’t suitable for all patients due to the allergic reactions that they may trigger some individuals. Secondly, metallic crowns have a distinctive color that makes the crown to be conspicuous if placed on a front tooth.

The Pros and Cons of Resin Dental Crowns

The Advantages: Crowns fabricated from resins are affordable when compared to those made from alternative materials. Secondly, resin dental crowns are easy to make, so most dentists can fabricate them in their offices while a client is still in the dental chair.
The Downsides: Resin crowns wear out quickly, so they aren’t a good option when you want permanent crowns. Additionally, resin crowns can easily crack or fracture, so extreme care needs to be taken to safeguard them.

The Pros and Cons of Purely Ceramic Dental Crowns

Purely ceramic crowns are made from either porcelain or ceramic without being mixed with any other material.

The Advantages: These crowns are highly sought after because they are indistinguishable from natural teeth in appearance. Secondly, ceramic crowns are so stable that it is nearly impossible to develop an allergic reaction to them.
The Drawbacks: Experts at Dental One Care caution that people should seek professional advice before opting for ceramic crowns since this material isn’t very strong. Additionally, the ceramic crowns have a tendency to cause the corresponding teeth in the other jaw to wear out quickly. This doesn’t happen when you have resin or metallic crowns.

The Pros and Cons of Crowns Made from a Combination of Metal and Porcelain

It is also possible for you to get crowns made from porcelain that has been fused to metal.

The Advantages: You get the best of both worlds when you opt for crowns made from porcelain fused to metal. For example, you get the strength of metal as well as the visual appeal of porcelain crowns.
The Drawbacks: Sometimes, the porcelain outer layer of the crowns may chip or crack. Also, as your gums recede, the metallic section of the crown may show through.

Steps Taken to Place Your Dental Crowns

Tooth Preparation: This first step entails cleaning your tooth thoroughly. Some enamel may also be removed from the tooth’s surface in order to create space for the crown.
Taking Tooth Impressions: Once the tooth is prepared, the dentist in Sterling Heights, MI will take impressions of the tooth so that a custom crown can be made. You may be given a temporary crown you need more than one visit or if the permanent crown is going to be made by an off-site lab.
Crown Installation: This may be during the same visit or during your second visit at Dental One Care. In this phase, Dr. Farhat places and fuses the crown on the tooth after confirming that the appearance and fit.

Do you think that dental crowns can be beneficial to your dental health or esthetics? Contact Dental One Care today for an appointment so that one of our experts can discuss your needs and recommend the best course of action.

How to Reduce Your Dental Anxiety

April 16, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Are you one of the millions of Americans who tense up and become anxious at the mere thought of going to the dentist? Dental anxiety can originate in childhood and can develop it as an adult. Whatever the roots of your anxiety are, it is helpful to address this issue before it worsens and stands in the way of getting the professional dental help that you need. Read on and discover what you can do about this condition.

Signs of Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety takes many forms, but it generally begins as a sense of panic each time you think about visiting the dentist. Some people find it hard to sleep once they contemplate going to the dentist, and some may even fail to function normally at work once their mind is taken up by their upcoming dental appointment. Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, explains that dental anxiety can be attributed to one or two factors.

First, people with dental anxiety have real or imagined fears about the pain they will experience as a dental procedure is being done.

Secondly, one may develop dental anxiety as a result of the lack of control that exists while they are sitting in the dental chair and a procedure is being done.

In both these scenarios, the anxiety can be lessened by taking a few simple steps.

Acknowledge and Communicate About Your Anxiety

No problem can ever be solved if you don’t realize there’s a problem and that you need help to fix the problem.

So, if you have dental anxiety you should admit to it. Once you do that, you can inform Dr. Farhat, a dentist at Dental One Care, about your situation. That way you will be able to talk about your anxiety and address your fears head-on.

This will save you from procrastinating or avoiding your Sterling Heights dentist altogether.

If you go to a dental office that doesn’t seem to understand your anxiety, then you switch dentists. Switch to Dental One Care where your anxiety will be treated with the seriousness it deserves.

How Your Dentist Can Help

Your dentist in Sterling Heights can do several things to help you overcome your dental anxiety. However, this will depend on the level of anxiety you have and the specific remedies that you respond to.

For example, Dr. Farhat may keep giving you periodic updates about each upcoming step during your treatment so that the fear of the unknown can be eliminated.

Alternatively, your Sterling Heights dentist can pause periodically during your cleaning or treatment so that you can take a breather and calm down your nerves.

Other patients often find it easier to describe the signs they exhibit when dental anxiety is getting worse. Knowing such signs helps the dentist to know when to give the patient a break before the dental anxiety reaches an overwhelming level.

Involve a Trusted Friend or Family Member

The dentist isn’t the only resource that you can utilize in your bid to banish dental anxiety. We asked our friend, Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, about dental anxiety. Dr. Kacos explained that many patients who suffer from dental anxiety often overcome it when they discuss the condition with a friend, colleague or family member.

The involvement of another person helps the patients to realize that undergoing a dental procedure isn’t as bad as they had made it out to be. Talking also enables them to realize that they aren’t alone in that situation.

Additionally, you can also ask your friend or family member to accompany you during your dental visits. The support of that person will ease you out of the dental anxiety, or at least lessen it.

Dentists Have Other Options

When the alternatives above fail to address your dental anxiety, then Dr. Farhat may opt to give you some form of sedative to calm you down during a visit. For example, he may give you an oral sedative about an hour before you are due to undergo a dental procedure. Laughing gas, moderate sedation, deep sedation or even general anesthesia can even be considered if your dental anxiety is severe. So, your dental health is not doomed because of your dental anxiety. Contact Dental One Care today and schedule an appointment so that you find out how Dr. Farhat can help your specific case of dental anxiety.