dentist in sterling heights Archives | Sterling Heights Dentist, Dr. Farhat of Dental 1 Care

The 3 Distinct Stages of Gum Disease

February 6, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

The 3 Distinct Stages of Gum Disease

Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, believes that patients need to know the different stages of gum disease so that they can take the necessary steps to arrest the situation before it worsens. This article discusses the three distinct stages of gum disease that dentists at Dental One Care deal with among their patients.

Stage One of Gum Disease: Gingivitis

The first phase of gum disease is gingivitis. During this stage, your gums start to get irritated by the bacteria contained in the built-up plaque on your teeth. As a result of this irritation, your gums will start swelling and looking red. You may notice that your teeth bleed each time you floss or brush.

The best way to stop gingivitis is by stepping up your oral care routine at home. This includes brushing at least two times each day and flossing once a day. This oral care will remove plaque and stop tartar from forming on your teeth.

Stage Two of Gum Disease: Periodontitis

The second phase of gum disease is periodontitis. This second stage starts if you don’t treat gingivitis. Dr. Farhat explains that the bacteria growing in the plaque deposits start damaging the bone supporting your teeth as well as the connecting tissues surrounding your teeth. Consequently, your gums will begin detaching from the teeth and deep pockets will form between the teeth and gums. These pockets harbor even more bacteria, and your breath will develop an odor due to the effects of the toxic excreta of this bacteria. We asked our friend Dr. Cody Cowen, a dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, about periodontitis. Dr. Cowen says, “This stage is a make or breaking point for many patients. You can either take the matter into your own hand and treat your gum disease or you can pay the consequences later on.” Dr. Cowen highly recommends treating gum disease right away.

At this point, you will need to see a Sterling Heights dentist to treat the gum disease because your oral care at home may not be sufficient to reverse the condition. Dr. Farhat and his team at Dental One Care will clean out the bacteria in the dental pockets and also clean below the gum line so that all the plaque and tartar can be removed. This will leave the teeth surfaces smooth and less susceptible to the growth of bacteria. The dentist in Sterling Heights, MI may also prescribe some antibiotics after the procedure to get rid of the bacteria.

Stage Three of Gum Disease: Advanced Periodontitis

When periodontitis is left untreated, it progresses to advanced periodontitis. At this point, the gum disease is at its most devastating stage. The disease will have several characteristics, such as pus between your gums and teeth, bad breath, swollen and red gums, bleeding gums, loose teeth and loss of supporting bone mass around the teeth.

You should never let gum disease progress to this level because once you start losing bone tissue, there is no turning back. Your teeth will also be exposed to other diseases and decay because they are exposed due to gum recession. Some of your teeth may also fall out as you eat or expose them to any impact.

Advanced periodontitis can be treated by conducting deep cleaning of your teeth. Dr. Farhat may also perform a root planing and scaling procedure to remove the bacteria lodged deep within your dental structures. The dentist will advise you about how many repeat cleaning sessions you should undergo at the dental office to tame the advanced periodontal disease.

As you can see, each stage of gum disease comes with its own symptoms and risks. Take prompt action once you suspect that you have gum disease. You can also visit Dental One Care for a thorough assessment by Dr. Farhat (Sterling Heights’ leading dentist) so that any dental problem you have is addressed immediately.

A Dentist’s Perspective on Oil Pulling

January 4, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

A Dentist’s Perspective on Oil Pulling

The advent of social media and celebrity worship has resurrected the ancient Ayurvedic tradition of oil pulling. So, what is oil pulling and why is everyone talking about it, are the claims of its benefits valid, and what do dentists think about it? Read on and get answers from your local Sterling Heights Dentist, Dr. Fardi Farhat.

What is Oil Pulling

Oil pulling refers to the act of swishing some oil in your mouth for 5-20 minutes. This is done once each day. Proponents recommend the use of coconut oil, sesame oil or sunflower oil for this exercise.

Does Oil Pulling Work?

Natural remedies are a hit among individuals who prefer an earth-based solution. Some people claim that oil pulling can whiten their teeth, prevent or cure inflammation, remove toxins from the mouth (hence the name “oil pulling”, meaning that the oil pulls toxins and germs from the mouth and teeth), cure bad breath, arthritis, and gingivitis.

However, Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI, advises patients to take these claims with a grain of salt since there is hardly any credible scientific research to back it up. In fact, the reports from practitioners also vary widely. Some report oil pulling with a host of benefits while others say no benefit was seen after they did it over several weeks.

Are the Effects of Oil Pulling Unique to That Practice?

It is reasonable to expect that oil pulling can prevent plaque from forming on your teeth or reduce the population of bad bacteria in your mouth. However, those very effects can be attained using a variety of methods.

For example, chewing sugar-free gum after you’ve had a meal will remove any food particles left in your mouth. So, bacteria will have less to feed on and thrive. Similarly, dentists in Sterling Heights recommend that people use mouthwash in order to keep their mouth smelling fresh and free from the buildup of bacteria. Rinsing with water and can also do the same.

Compared to these options, oil pulling loses some of its appeal. Especially when one considers the appearance of the mixture of oil and saliva after the swishing. Also, many people can’t keep the oil in their mouth for that long (20 minutes).

Are There Better Ways to a Healthy Smile?

Most, if not all of the purported dental health benefits of oil pulling can be attained by brushing your teeth twice each day and flossing once a day. We asked our friend, Dr. Cody Cowen, a dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, about his thoughts on oil pulling. Dr. Cowen says that effective brushing and flossing doesn’t require as much time as oil pulling, yet its benefits have been documented for decades.

He says the best way to ensure that your dental health is protected is by maintaining oral hygiene on a daily basis as well as seeing your Sterling Heights dentist at least twice each year. This will ensure that any developing issues are identified and resolved early.

What Does the ADA Think?

The American Dental Association (ADA) took note of the oil pulling fad so seriously that they published some information about the practice. Their view is that it is untested and they recommend the oral care measures stated earlier.

In case you have any other query about oil pulling, or about any other dental concern, don’t hesitate to contact Dental One Care. Our professionals are waiting to respond to your concern and give you the treatment you need in order to regain or maintain your dental health.

How to Prevent Dry Socket After Wisdom Tooth Removal?

December 28, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

How to Prevent Dry Socket After Wisdom Tooth Removal?

People who’ve had a tooth extracted may have heard of dry socket before. Dry socket is a common complication that occurs after a tooth is extracted. So what is dry socket and why should you do everything possible to prevent it after a tooth extraction? Read on and learn how to prevent dry socket after wisdom tooth removal.

What Dry Socket Is

Dry socket, also known as alveolar osteitis, describes a painful condition that results when the blood clot covering a tooth extraction site is dislodged before the underlying nerve tissues and bone have healed. The premature loss of this protective clot lengthens the healing time and results in a lot of discomfort and pain.

How Do Know You Have Dry Socket?

Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI, explains that it ’s normal to feel some pain after having your wisdom teeth removed surgically. However, this pain is transient and ends a few days after the extraction.

So, patients can suspect that they have dry socket if they experience intense pain that spreads to the face and head days after the surgery. Bad breath may also indicate that one has dry socket, especially if they don’t have a history of halitosis.

The professionals at Dental One Care also advise that patients observe the surgical site in a mirror. Dry socket should be suspected if the surgical site is fully or partially empty (lacking the blood clot which formed after the surgery).

How to Prevent Dry Socket

Don’t use drinking straws. The suction force created as one is using a straw can easily dislodge the blood clot at the tooth extraction site. Dr. Farhat, therefore, recommends that you refrain from using a straw for at least one week after you have had a tooth extracted. That abstinence will allow the site to heal under the protection provided by the blood clot.

Opt for softer foods. It is also wise to opt for soft foods during the days following tooth extraction. The soft foods will cause less stress on the surgical site as you eat. For example, eat mashed potatoes, yogurt, soup in the first two or so days after the surgery. Try harder foods later and revert to the soft ones if you feel pain.

Refrain from tobacco use or smoking. We asked our friend, Dr. Dennis Laurich, a dentist in Canton, MI about how to prevent dry socket. Dr. Laurich says that the risk of dry socket increased threefold for smokers when compared to non-smokers. He says this is because the act of smoking entails a sucking force that can dislodge the blood clot at the surgical site. Additionally, the chemicals in the tobacco and any other substance that one may smoke can also interfere with the body’s healing processes, such as causing the clot to dissolve prematurely. You should work with your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI, to find a way to reduce or abstain from smoking and the use of tobacco until you have healed after wisdom tooth extraction.

Be meticulous in your oral hygiene. Another tip for those who want to learn how to prevent dry socket is that they should be particular about their oral hygiene during this healing period. Oral germs can prevent a blood clot from forming, or they can break it down once it forms. Talk to your Sterling Heights dentist about how you should brush your teeth, as well as the use of antibacterial mouthwash that may be helpful in preventing infection while you heal.

Talk to the dentist about other medications. Discuss any medications that you are currently taking as you prepare for surgery to remove wisdom teeth. You should also consult your dentist in case any medication is prescribed for another condition within the time that you are healing after undergoing tooth extraction surgery. For example, oral contraceptives have been linked to causing dry socket.

Call a dentist in Sterling Heights, such as Dr. Farhat, if you suspect that you have a dry socket. The Dental One Care team will advise you about what you should do next. Otherwise, do everything you can to implement the advice given above on how to prevent dry socket.

What Does Sleep Apnea Have to do With the Dentist?

November 27, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

What Does Sleep Apnea Have to do With the Dentist?

Did you know that your dentist could help you when it comes to sleep apnea and snoring? Snoring is one of the conditions that people with sleep apnea face and rather than ponder about the cause, it’s time you consult your dentist for sleep apnea Sterling Heights, MI because it is most probably due to your oral health.

Which is exactly why it is no surprise that most dentists ask you about how well you sleep during oral checkups. They can early diagnose patients with the condition through an oral examination.

It is estimated that 22 million Americans deal with sleep apnea and a majority of them go undiagnosed. The condition may vary from individual to individual but the interruption in breathing can be dangerous.

There are three oral reasons why the disruption occurs, these are:

A small jaw
A large tongue
Flaccid muscles at the back of the throat

How to tell if you have sleep apnea?

Dr. Farhat says there are various signs to sleep apnea. One of the first telling sign of sleep disorders is the grinding of your teeth. Which is exactly why dentists can diagnose sleep apnea at an early stage. They can notice the tooth surface becoming worn out which raises a flag telling them that the patient has been grinding their teeth.

Grinding results in not just your teeth wearing out but also receding and inflamed gums. As the teeth wear down, it also becomes more susceptible to cavities so that is another sign dentists look for.

Along with teeth grinding, sleep specialist says the three oral reasons for disruption listed above are also signs of sleep apnea.

What does sleep apnea do?

As you grind your teeth while you sleep, there is a shortness of breath, which automatically tells your brain to wake up. In order to grind your teeth, you must close your mouth which closes one of the two passages of air into the body. You see as you sleep, you don’t really control where the air goes from the nose or the mouth. So if one of the two passages are sealed off, the brain automatically directs you to wake up because it isn’t getting enough air.

Sleep apnea results in individuals constantly waking up through the night, which impacts their sleep quality and can lead to them feeling fatigue in the morning. The disorder has also been linked to diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

What are some sleep apnea treatments?

Before you begin any treatment related to sleep apnea, your dentist may recommend a sleep study. This will note your sleep cycle and your brain activity as you sleep allowing them to determine if it is disrupted or not.

There are different sleep apnea treatments you can opt for with the night guard being one of the easiest to access.

While most individuals opt for an over the counter night guard, this is usually not the best solution. A custom-made night guard is a better option and your dentist can help you with it. The guard will reduce the occurrence of teeth grinding, in turn, reducing the chances of sleep apnea.

For those that have a serious case of sleep apnea, surgery might be recommended.

If you feel that you have sleep apnea then it is important you consult your dentist right away. Dentists in Sterling Heights, MI not only help diagnose the condition but also provide you with the best treatment option for sleep apnea.

The Pros and Cons of Teeth Whitening Treatments

October 4, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

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.

How Do I Know If I Have A Cavity?

September 13, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

How Do I Know If I Have A Cavity?

One of the many questions people who are focused on maintaining good oral health always ask is “Do I have a cavity?”

Cavities are the leading causes of tooth loss; as such, it is important that you nip dental caries in the bud to prevent them from becoming full-blown dental problems.

A cavity can be reversed if tooth decay is discovered in its early stages. Tooth pain is often the most noticeable sign of decay, but it is not the only and first indication. There are other signs and symptoms that accompany the start of a cavity.

So how do I know if I have a cavity? Here are some other signs and symptoms you have to be aware of:

Black, brown, or gray spots on your teeth

A cavity eats its way into your tooth. Because of this, it creates a hole. However, this hole does not show up right away. You will first see a gray, brown, or black spot instead.

If you see a spot or stain with any of these colors that do not go away after brushing, you already have a bacterial problem working its way into your enamel. To avoid having a full-blown dental issue, see your dentist as soon as possible.

Tooth sensitivity

In addition to tooth pain, you will also often feel tooth sensitivity when you develop a cavity. This sensitivity manifests whenever you eat something hot, cold, sugary, or acidic. You may even feel an uncomfortable tingling on your teeth when you breathe in hot or cold air.

A Sterling Heights dentist says that your teeth become extra-sensitive because the bacteria make your tooth enamel weaker. The enamel protects the highly receptive nerves within a tooth. As that protective layer becomes thinner, the nerves receive more powerful signals.

If your tooth sensitivity is becoming more and more unbearable, visit your dentist immediately.

Bad breath

If you ignore any tooth decay, bacteria will proliferate in your tooth. This will lead to bad breath. When you notice that your breath still smells bad even if you brush your teeth and tongue regularly, schedule a checkup with your dentist.

Lingering bad taste in your mouth

Brushing and gargling with mouthwash will help you get rid of the bad taste in your mouth. But Shreveport’s dentist, Dr. Ben Kacos says that if you notice a chronic bad taste, have your teeth checked since this may be a sign that a cavity needs to be cleaned out and filled.

Cracked tooth

Although most cracked teeth are caused by accidents or really hard foods, they can also be triggered by cavities. Since cavities weaken your tooth enamel, your tooth becomes more vulnerable when you are chewing crunchy foods.

If you crack a tooth, schedule a dentist appointment immediately and avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth until after your checkup.

Your dentist will also pinpoint cavities in your teeth that you do not notice or that have not shown any symptoms yet. It is, therefore, important that you visit your dentist twice a year even if you are not experiencing any dental problems.

When To Call The Dentist About Your Wisdom Teeth

September 11, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

When To Call The Dentist About Your Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth usually appear when a person is between the ages of 17 to 25. While they are coming out, they may cause short-term pain, similar to the discomfort you feel from the eruption of your other teeth.

However, the appearance of wisdom teeth is often marked by other types and levels of discomfort and inconvenience. Whether they have fully erupted or not yet, you need to know when to call the dentist about your wisdom teeth.

Below are five signs that indicate you need to have your wisdom teeth checked by your dentist immediately:

You feel constant pain in the back of your mouth

As already mentioned, the eruption of wisdom teeth often causes aches and pains. They usually go away, especially once the teeth have fully erupted. However, if the pain lingers, you have to see your dentist as soon as possible. He or she will determine if the wisdom tooth is causing the pain or if something else is behind it.

If a wisdom tooth is impacted, which means the tooth came through at an angle or only partially pushed through the gum, this comes with a great deal of pain and can cause an infection. In this instance, your dentist will recommend a wisdom tooth extraction.

Your wisdom teeth are not straight

If your wisdom teeth did not grow or erupt straight, they could cause the adjacent teeth to move. They may even damage your other healthy teeth.

In most cases, removing the crooked wisdom teeth will prevent the other teeth from being damaged.

You have difficulties eating or chewing

If you constantly experience pain while eating or chewing, you need to see your dentist immediately as well. Our dental friends at Laurich Dentistry says that food could be getting stuck in between the gums and the tops of your wisdom teeth. If you can’t clean these areas thoroughly, you will have a bigger problem in the future.

Your dentist will be able to recommend the right products to fix this problem. If your dentist can’t find the suitable solution, extraction may be the best solution.

Your gums are inflamed

Some wisdom teeth can create a flap of gum tissue that resides next to the tooth when they start erupting. This gum tissue can trap small pieces of food and bacteria. This, in turn, will cause the tissue around the teeth to become hard and inflamed and difficult to clean. This is condition is called pericoronitis.

When this type of dental problem occurs, Dr. Farhat, a dentist from Sterling Heights, says that extraction is usually the best treatment option.

Your wisdom teeth have cavities

Finally, the position of your wisdom teeth can also make it hard for you to clean them properly. If you can’t keep them thoroughly clean through brushing and flossing, the gums will become irritated. Pockets can then develop between the teeth and cause bacteria to grow. This will then encourage the growth of cavities leading to tooth decay and infection.

If you’re in Michigan and you notice one or more of these signs on your wisdom teeth, visit Dental 1 Care straightaway. Our dentists will diagnose and provide the best treatment option to address your specific dental problem.

Sterling Heights Dentist Discusses Dental Bridges

July 9, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Sterling Heights Dentist Discusses Dental Bridges.

The Truth About Dental Bridges – Pros and Cons

There are a number of restorative dental options in less-than-ideal scenarios involving tooth loss. If you are currently considering getting dental bridges, it would be ideal to weigh what this option entails.

So, here’s a quick rundown of the essential facts about dental bridges – pros and cons:

PROS

Dental bridges are a highly functional dental appliance in the replacement of missing teeth. Once they are securely in place, the patient can immediately start using them for normal biting and chewing functions without pain or discomfort. There is also little to no effect on speech as the fixed dental appliance functions like the natural tooth it is supposed to replace.
They are low maintenance as there is no need to periodically remove them for cleaning. This is the main reason why some patients prefer them to removable dentures.
So, they are aesthetically pleasing as a restorative dental solution for missing or lost teeth. Materials used can be matched to the color of adjacent teeth. Ultimately, there is no way others can tell apart the artificial tooth from the natural teeth.
They reduce the possibility of teeth movement and bone loss in the jaw. Thereby, substantially reducing the risks posed by tooth loss.
Installing the dental bridge requires only about two sessions to complete.
Patients get used to the comfortable feel of a dental bridge

CONS

The health of the abutment teeth on either side of the lost/missing tooth may be compromised as they need to be prepared to support and keep the pontic (replacement tooth) in place. Preparation entails shaving off or removing substantial amounts of tooth tissue whether or not decay is present in the abutment teeth. This makes the adjacent teeth vulnerable to decay if the crowns and bridges are not properly and securely fitted.
The abutment teeth become more sensitive to external stimuli, so there may be a need to create temporary crowns to protect them until the bridge procedure is completed.
If it happens that the abutment teeth turn out to be not strong enough to support the pontic, they may collapse and eventually lead the patient to require dental implants instead. They also need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years.

To determine which dental appliance will work best for your current dental condition, contact your dentist in Sterling Heights.

In the end, your decision should be something that wouldn’t further compromise your dental health down the line.

7 Best and Worst Breakfast Foods for Your Teeth

May 24, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

The food and drinks you consume will have a crucial role in keeping your teeth and gums in tip-top shape. Just like the different parts of your body, your teeth will require certain nutrients to thrive.

For instance, foods rich in vitamins A and D, calcium, fiber, and phosphorous will protect and strengthen your teeth. Also, those that require some crunching and generate saliva will help prevent decay and eliminate stains.

However, not all food and drinks can benefit your teeth. A reputable Sterling Heights dentist says that there are certain food products that are dangerous for your oral health because they promote tooth decay and erode teeth enamel.

Before deciding which food to prepare each morning, you must know what you should eat and avoid. Dr. Farhat shares some of the best and worst breakfast foods for your teeth.

Best Breakfast Foods

Yogurt

Yogurt is a tooth-friendly breakfast food because it is low in sugar. Also, it has healthy bacteria that maintain the right bacterial balance in your mouth.

Dairy Products

Milk and cheese are some of the best breakfast foods for your mouth because of the calcium they contain. Remember that calcium will prevent tooth decay.

What is unique about cheese is that it contains casein. This is a type of protein that repairs and strengthens tooth enamel.

Berries

Blueberries, strawberries and other berries contain minerals and nutrients the will benefit both your oral and overall health. These non-citrus fruits are also great for your metabolism. Since they are slow carbohydrates that gradually break down, they will keep you fuller longer. Don’t forget though that these fruits also contain sugar, so you have to brush soon afterward.

Fatty Fish

Fish like sardines and salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can keep your teeth and gums healthy. Also, they are full of vitamin D, which is essential in calcium absorption.

Worst Breakfast Foods

Cereal

Eating cereal early in the morning is probably the most common breakfast mistake people commit. Even the healthiest cereals contain plenty of sugar, causing cavities and late-morning energy crashes.

Pancakes and Waffles with Syrup

It is okay to occasionally indulge in foods with syrup. But this should not be a part of your morning routine. Instead, you must save waffles and pancakes for special occasions. Also, limit the amount of syrup. If not, skip the syrup and use sugar-free jam.

White Bread

White bread is awful for your teeth because it can stick into the crevices of your teeth. After chewing, the enzymes of the bread are converted to sugar, which can wreak more havoc on your oral health.

Eating foods that can damage your teeth is unavoidable. Thus, a dentist in Sterling Heights recommends visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and teeth cleaning.

Should I Get Dental Implants?

May 16, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

When you lose a tooth, the remaining teeth will move into space where your lost tooth previously was. This can create a host of problems.

This is why it is crucial for you to find the right tooth replacement option. One such option you might want to seriously consider would be dental implants. You’re probably wondering “Should I get dental implants?” or “Are dental implants worth it?”

Anatomy of dental implants

In order to better answer that question, it is worthwhile to have some understanding of what implants are.

An implant is comprised of three main parts: the post, abutment, and the tooth restoration.

The implant looks and functions like a screw. It is usually made of titanium and is implanted beneath the jawbone.

Once the implant is installed by Dr. Farhat, the abutment is then installed. This will be followed by the installation of the tooth restoration.

Advantages of dental implants

One of the key advantages of dental implants over other tooth replacement options is that these can help prevent the deterioration of your jawbone.

Dental implants help ensure that your jawbone is stimulated despite the lack of a tooth root. In turn, keeping your jawbone healthy can prevent your face from looking sunken and your lips from looking too thin.

Dental implants can also prevent some of the problems associated with wearing dentures. These include mouth sores, poor fit, and dietary restrictions.

Finally, dental implants have been around and have been modernized with the advent of new technologies.

Today, dentists like Dr. Farhat can show their patients the outcome they can expect from the procedure. But apart from that, regarding longevity and overall value, implants are considered by many experts as superior over other tooth replacement options.

Should I get dental implants?

Wel, if there is one major caveat that you should know about dental implants, it is the fact that it may not be suitable for everyone.

In order to be considered an ideal candidate for dental implants, your Sterling Heights dentist will need to take a few crucial factors into consideration.

First, you should have healthy gums. That means that if you have gum disease, you might need to consider other tooth replacement options.

Patients who want to get dental implants should also possess good bone density. Remember, the implants will be anchored to the jawbone.

The whole process of installing dental implants can take several months or even up to a year. If you do not have the patience to go through such a long process, then dental implants may not be for you.

Finally, there are some patients that are ruled out from getting implants due to their conditions. These include smokers and people who are suffering from diseases that affect their bodies’ ability to heal.