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

Is Dental Bonding for Me?

June 24, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

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

Defects Where Dental Bonding is Helpful

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

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

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

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

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

The Pros of Dental Bonding

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

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

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

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

Potential Limitations of Dental Bonding

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

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

Dental Bonding Procedure

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

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

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

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

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

How to Care for Your Bonded Tooth

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

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

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

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

8 Signs You Need Emergency Dental Care

June 21, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

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

Sign #1: Your Tooth is Loose

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

Sign #2: Severe Toothache

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

Sign #3: Aching and Bleeding Gums

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

Sign #4: Your Jaw is Swollen

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

Sign #5: Dental Abscesses

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

Sign #6: A Numb Tooth

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

Sign #7: A Metallic Taste in the Mouth

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

Sign #8: Constant Headaches

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

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

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.

What to Expect During a Deep Cleaning

May 14, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

What to Expect During a Deep Cleaning

Plaque build up is not usually always easy to spot. Unless the build-up occurs around your teeth or the gum line. However, plaque along with bacteria can go deep into your gums, attacking the root of your teeth. This is an area where you can’t combat the bacteria by simply brushing or flossing, leaving your teeth vulnerable. Dental One Care in Sterling Heights, MI can help you combat bacteria and plaque deep in your gums through deep cleaning, which is also known as root planing and scaling.

The process cleans deep into your gums, removing any tartar or plaque present. The reason why it is called deep cleaning is that it goes deep into your gums and tooth’s roots. It is a treatment that is highly recommended for anyone that has gum infection or disease. For example, if you have advanced gingivitis, you should schedule a deep cleaning appointment with your Sterling Heights dentist to so the disease doesn’t become any more serious and evolve into periodontitis. Periodontitis is a severe gum disease that is a painful infection that leads to bone and teeth loss. But the disease can be controlled and prevented with a timely root planing and scaling.

Process of Deep Cleaning

Dr. Fardi Farhat from Dental One Care highlights the procedure of deep cleaning. While it is usually recommended for individuals with gingivitis or gum infection, there may be times that your dentist may recommend it when you go for regular cleaning. The procedure is as follows:

To ensure you don’t feel pain, a local anesthetic will be applied or injected in the are of the gum and teeth where the cleaning is to occur.
A tool used for scaling will then scrape tartar and plaque present in your tooth’s roots. This will ensure that the bacteria is removed so there is no chance of cavities or decay.
In case of severe infection, you may be given antibiotics to continue to combat the bacteria and disease while also promote healing.
A planing tool is then used at the end of the treatment to reshape the tooth’s surface and make it smoother, reducing the chances of the formation of bacteria.

We asked our friend, Dr. Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, about deep cleaning. Dr. Green says, “Deep cleaning paired with a good oral regimen can help you maintain healthy gums and teeth while eliminating the chances of gum diseases.” To schedule a deep cleaning with Dr. Farhat, click here.

The Benefits of Deep Cleaning

Through the procedures individuals will experience the following benefits:

Combat gum disease: Anyone with gingivitis or early stages of periodontitis can combat the disease with the help of deep cleaning. More often than not, just one procedure is more than enough to eliminate the disease.
Prevents tooth decay: Gum disease has been linked to the loss of tooth tissues which causes them to decay. As the decay reaches the root, simple treatment such as dental filling isn’t enough to combat decay. You need to clean the infection from the root of your teeth to prevent decay.
Fresher breath: Gingivitis leads to bad breath. The plaque and bacteria buildup in the mouth makes your breath unpleasant. Through deep cleaning, you remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gum which gives you better breath.

It is imperative that you contact your Sterling Heights dentist at the earliest sight of gum inflammation. The sooner it is treated, the better so it doesn’t have a chance to develop into periodontitis.

5 Benefits of Custom Mouthguards

April 29, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

5 Benefits of Custom Mouthguards

Custom mouthguards are often downplayed. Neglecting such an important protective tool can expose your dental health to serious challenges, such as knocked-out teeth. But why should you buy custom-fitted mouthguards when generic versions exist in sports-goods stores? In this article, you’ll discover the unique benefits of custom mouthguards as opposed to the pre-made versions.

Custom Mouthguards Provide an Exact Fit

Our jaws, teeth and mouth vary from one person to another. So, it would require a feat of engineering for a manufacturer to mass produce mouthguards that would be a proper fit for every athlete.

Dental One Care makes custom-fit mouthguards. All you need to do is schedule an appointment with Dr. Farhat and he’ll take an impression of your teeth. This cast is then dispatched to a dental lab so that the customized mouthguard can be made for you. The device will fit you perfectly so that you don’t have to keep your mouth shut in order to retain the mouthguard. This precision of the fit makes the time and money spent acquiring the mouthguard a worthwhile investment.

Custom Mouthguards Mean Greater Comfort

Custom-fit mouthguards are very comfortable to wear because they are manufactured in accordance with the unique attributes of your mouth and teeth. This high degree of comfort makes wearing your mouthguard enjoyable. Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI explains that this comfort is particularly important if the mouthguard is for a child because an uncomfortable mouthguard will create numerous opportunities for the child to “forget” to wear the device before going to train or compete in their sport. Pre-made mouthguards cannot offer the same degree of comfort, and therefore using them will mean putting up with a lot of unnecessary discomforts.

Maximum Protection

The purpose of wearing a mouthguard is to protect your teeth, jaw, lips and other oral structures from the forces generated during an impact, such as a collision with another athlete. Because custom-fit mouthguards are designed after getting the specifications of an individual, they offer maximum protection when compared to pre-made versions. For example, the custom-fit mouthguards made by Dental One Care can be designed to accommodate the wires in your braces so that those wires don’t break and hurt you during an impact. Generic mouthguards don’t accommodate those unique attributes, so you end up with less protection than you need.

Appropriate Thickness

The thickness of the material used when making custom-fit mouthguards is decided after considering the specific activities for which you need the mouthguard. For example, a person who is a boxer requires a thicker mouthguard than another person who plays tennis. This is because the likelihood of impacts to the mouth in boxing is higher (and the impacts are more violent) than in tennis. By varying the thickness, Dr. Farhat and his team at Dental One Care ensure that you will have the right type of protection for the specific sports you engage in.

Custom Mouthguards Are Cost-Effective

At first glance, custom-fit mouthguards may appear to be very expensive when compared to the mass-produced ones in sports-equipment stores. However, we asked our friend, Dr. Taher Dhoon, a dentist in Greeley, CO, about the benefits of custom mouthguards. Dr. Dhoon says that custom-fit mouthguards are actually more affordable than generic ones. For example, the generic versions will wear out quickly because they aren’t designed for the individual who buys them. So, you’ll likely exert more stress on some parts of the generic mouthguard, such as the sections where the mouthguard makes contact with the wires of dental braces.

Secondly, the customized mouthguard provides more protection and therefore saves you the high cost of dental reconstruction after a nasty impact. Generic mouthguards aren’t customized for a given sport, so the limited protection they provide sets you up to incur high costs when your oral structures are affected during an impact.

Look no further than Dental One Care if you need custom mouthguards in Sterling Heights, MI. Dr. Farhat and his experienced team will respond to all your queries and you will soon wonder why it took you so long to switch to custom-fit mouthguards.

All Your Questions About Dental Bridges and Partial Dentures, Answered!

April 26, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Dental bridges and partial dentures may be suitable for you if you have lost one or more teeth. However, it may be hard for you to decide which option is best for you if you don’t have sufficient information to make an informed decision. Dr. Farhat at Dental One Care put together this brief guide to address all your questions about dental bridges and partial dentures.

Why Should Missing Teeth Be Replaced?

First, replacing a missing tooth helps to maintain the visual appeal of your smile. Many dentists in Sterling Heights, MI realize that majority of people become self-conscious once they have a gap due to a missing tooth. If you have a gap, you’re less likely to smile or interact freely with others. Replacing your missing tooth eliminates this problem and allows you to have normal social interactions.

Secondly, replacing a missing tooth also serves a functional purpose. For instance, your Sterling Heights dentist may recommend that you replace your missing tooth so it doesn’t affect your chewing or speaking abilities. Tooth replacement ensures that each tooth remains in its proper position for effective eating, speaking, as well as esthetics.

How Can a Missing Tooth Be Replaced?

A missing tooth or teeth can be replaced in one of three common ways, according to dentists at Dental One Care.

First, a dental bridge may be used to fill the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth. Secondly, a false tooth, called a partial denture, can be placed in the existing gap. Alternatively, an implant may be used to provide an anchor for a crown.

What Are Partial Dentures?

A partial denture refers to a plate on which one or more false teeth have been placed. This partial denture could be made from a mixture of plastic and metal, or it could be made from only plastic. Partial dentures often have clasps (clips) that are used to attach the partial denture to the surrounding teeth. Depending on their location, the clasps may be visible when you open your mouth or if you smile.

How Does a Plastic Partial Denture Differ from One With Metal?

Dr. Farhat explains that purely plastic partial dentures are easy to fabricate and are therefore inexpensive. However, extreme care is needed during their production in order to prevent them from damaging the teeth onto which they are anchored/supported. This damage results because the plastic partial denture is quite heavy in order to give it the needed strength.

Conversely, partial dentures that have metal components are stronger and lighter than entirely plastic partial dentures. These partial dentures are also more costly when compared to plastic ones.

Which Option Is Best for You?

The experts at Dental One Care will base on the condition of your teeth in order to recommend whether an entirely plastic partial denture is appropriate or one with metal is a better alternative.

How Should Partial Dentures Be Looked After?

First, make sure yous clean your dentures every day. This starts with brushing them using a recommended denture cleaner rather than toothpaste. Toothpaste may cause tiny grooves to form on the dentures. Next, soak the dentures overnight in a cleaning solution so that the denture retains its shape and remains free from germs.

It is advisable for you to place a folded towel or bowl below where you are brushing the dentures in case you drop them. Otherwise, they may be damaged if they have a long fall. You can also have your dentures professionally cleaned at Dental One Care if you notice that they are developing stubborn stains.

What Are the Alternatives to Partial Dentures?

You can replace your missing tooth with an implant-supported crown or you can get a dental bridge. The experts at Dental One Care will recommend the best options for you and your needs.

What Are Bridges Fabricated From?

Dental bridges are normally made by fusing porcelain to a metallic base. Precious metals, such as gold, are preferred for this because they tend to last longer. However, non-precious metals, such as steel and aluminum, may also be used.

Is a Bridge Always an Option?

Dr. Farhat explains that not everyone is a suitable candidate for a dental bridge. This is because one must have strong teeth next to the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth. The nearby teeth have to be strong because the bridge will be anchored to them for support. If the surrounding teeth are weak, another replacement option will be recommended by your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI.

How Soon Can a Bridge Be Fitted?

You may have to wait for several months after your tooth is extracted before a dental bridge can be fitted. This interval is needed in order to allow your gum to heal fully after the tooth was pulled. In the meantime, the Sterling Heights dentist may give you a temporary denture while you wait for the gum to heal.

Are Bridges Affordable?

The cost of a dental bridge varies depending on various factors, such as the size of that bridge and the material from which it is made. Be sure to ask for a written estimate of the costs and the treatment plan before you start the procedure.

How Should Dental Bridges Be Looked After?

We asked our friend Dr. Matt Laurich, a dentist in Livonia, MI, about dental bridges. Dr. Laurich strongly emphasizes practicing good oral hygiene. Be sure to clean the dental bridge on a daily basis to avert bad breath and other problems like periodontal disease. Ensure that your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI or a dental hygienist demonstrates how you can keep the area underneath the false tooth clean.

Don’t hesitate to contact Dental One Care if you have other questions about dental bridges, partial dentures or about any aspect of your dental health. We are available to address any dental health issue you may have, so give us a call today and get an appointment.

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.

The Must-Knows About Dentures

April 9, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

The Must-Knows About Dentures

Gone are the days when dentures were ill-fitting, unsightly and uncomfortable. Today, dentistry has taken so many strides that many people are opting for dentures even if other dental prosthetics could suffice for their condition.

Nevertheless, many who could benefit from these replacements don’t get them because they don’t have sufficient information about dentures. The experts at Dental One Care have put together this guide so that you can get answers to many of the concerns you may have had about dentures.

Of course not all your questions may be addressed here, so you may still need to talk to Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI for a personalized assessment of the suitability of dentures for your needs.

Dentures Defined

Basically, dentures are one of the replacement options when you have lost some or all of your teeth. The only distinguishing attribute of dentures is that they aren’t permanently attached or anchored in the jaw or natural teeth.

Dentures are designed to replace many teeth at a go, so they are the go-to option for those who have lost all or nearly half their natural teeth. Dentures can be full or partial depending on the needs of a patient.

When Should I Consider Getting Dentures?

Your Sterling Heights dentist may recommend dentures if you have wide gaps in your mouth due to the loss of several teeth in one or both the upper and lower row of teeth. These wide gaps rule out the use of fillings or crowns as options since there isn’t sufficient anchorage for these alternatives.

Older people who have endured pain and persistent root infections may consider dentures once all other options to save their natural teeth have been exhausted. In this case, the remaining teeth will be extracted and replaced with dentures to put an end to the infections and pain.

Dr. Farhat will recommend either partial or full dentures based on the number of natural teeth that you still have and the location of the gaps which need to be filled.

What Is Based on to Recommend Partial or Full Dentures?

As already mentioned, the dentist in Sterling Heights, MI considers several factors when deciding whether you should get a set of partial or complete (full) dentures. First, the number of teeth remaining plays a role.

If very few teeth are left (only four, for example), then the dentist may extract the remaining ones and give you full dentures. This is because those remaining teeth may no longer be serving any functional or esthetic role, and it could be costlier to design and manufacture a set of dentures that accommodates those remaining teeth.

Secondly, the condition of your remaining teeth will also be assessed before a decision to recommend full or partial dentures is made. If those teeth are extensively decayed or damaged (or have another serious dental issue that gives them a poor prognosis) then the teeth will be pulled and you will get full dentures.

How Are Dentures Made?

The exact process that is followed when creating a set of dentures will depend on the unique requirements of each patient. Generally, a detailed picture of your mouth is usually created by taking numerous measurements. A cast is then made and tried on to confirm that it fits your personal specifications. It isn’t uncommon for several of these casts to be made and tried on since a good fit is critical to the long-term utility of these prosthetics.

You, therefore, need to be patient throughout this process, especially given that you are unlikely to get your final set of dentures until after several weeks have elapsed in case some teeth were pulled.

This wait time is important because your mouth transforms during the healing process and the final fitting should be done once your gums and oral structures have reached some form of stability.

How Do They Stay Firmly in Place in the Mouth?

You may have heard horror stories (most likely exaggerated ones) that dentures dramatically fall out of the mouth when you laugh out loud or while you eat. You may have also been told that one must keep applying some kind of adhesive in order to retain the dentures in place.

Dr. Farhat explains that all those aren’t true because only ill-fitting dentures require an adhesive to stay in place. Fitting dentures rely on suction power to remain firm in the mouth. Your Sterling Heights dentist can only recommend an adhesive if your oral structures, such as the gums, change so much that you feel sore or have pain because the dentures are shifting in your mouth.

Even then, a new set of dentures, or an adjustment of your current set, is sufficient to fix the problem so that you don’t need to apply an adhesive anymore.

Is It Easy to Eat With New Dentures?

The professionals at Dental One Care say that it is normal for the dentures to feel awkward in your mouth during the first few weeks after you get them. This is because your oral structures haven’t gotten used to these devices, but this gradually changes as you use your dentures daily.

Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI recommends that you deliberately chew using both sides of your mouth so that all sides get used to the dentures. You will soon be able to use these dental replacements in the same way that you were using your natural teeth.

The only condition given is that you should avoid consuming very hard or sticky foods (hard toffees, for example) since these can dislodge the dentures. Chewing gum is a no too.

For How Long Should One Wear Dentures Daily?

Generally, dentures can be worn during the day and removed at night so that the gums can rest and repair themselves while you sleep. However, Sterling Heights dentists often ask patients to wear new dentures overnight in order to determine how well those dentures are fitting. Soreness, tenderness or pain in any section of the gum in the morning suggests that an adjustment needs to be made in that part of the prosthetics.

Do Dentures Require Special Care?

We asked our friend, Dr. Taher Dhoon, a dentist in Greeley, CO, about the care of dentures. Dr. Dhoon says that many people think that dentures require less care, which is not the case. Although dentures do not require any special care, you should still continue your oral health routine to ensure the longevity of your dentures. It is advisable to place them in a container of water overnight so that they stay supple and clean. You can add a cleaning solution to this water, but make sure to ask Dr. Farhat for his recommendations first.

You also need to brush the dentures after removing them in the evening and before you wear them in the morning. This will keep them clean and protect you from the oral bacteria that may have been breeding on them. Periodic dental visits are still necessary so that the experts at Dental One Care can monitor your oral health and act promptly if a problem develops.

An important tip that Dr. Farhat gives his patients is that they should always place a cloth or bowl beneath the dentures as they are brushing them. This will prevent the dentures from falling to the floor and being damaged if you accidentally drop them.

Aren’t Dentures Expensive?

The cost of dentures depends on several factors. First, the materials from which they will be made affects their price. Dentures made from cross-linked polymers are the most costly.

Secondly, the number of fittings that you need also add to the final cost of the prosthetics. There’s nothing you or your Sterling Heights dentist can do to control this since the unique issues you have may necessitate the use of several casts before the best fitting is achieved.

Thirdly, people who need tooth extractions also end up paying more since this step is charged separately.

It is advisable to talk to your dentist about any payment plans available if you are concerned about the cost of getting dentures. Also, find out about the warranty on the dentures so that you don’t pay more if the dentures fail within the warranty period.

Still have questions about dentures? Contact Dental One Care and all your concerns will be addressed. Or book an appointment today so that you can be evaluated and advised on the suitability of dentures for your needs.

Tips for Dealing with Dry Mouth

April 3, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Tips for Dealing with Dry Mouth

Dry mouth can be an uncomfortable experience regardless of how brief it is. However, some people suffer from the condition for several weeks, months or even years depending on what the underlying reason is.

Several factors have been linked to the development of dry mouth. These include cancer treatment (chemo and radiotherapy), infections, medications, and dehydration.

Dry mouth causes several effects, such as bad breath, periodontal disease, cavities, and poorly fitting dentures.

For some people, the condition subsides on its own while it can persist in others. For example, those who are undergoing radiotherapy may sustain permanent damage to the salivary glands resulting in chronic dry mouth.

You can take several measures to combat this condition. In the section below, is tips for dealing with dry mouth.

Tip #1 for Dry Mouth: Be Vigilant About Hydration

Dr. Farhat recommends that people with dry mouth should take small sips of water throughout the day in order to keep hydrated. Drink about 8-12 glasses of water on a daily basis unless your doctor specifically advises otherwise.

Tip #2 for Dry Mouth: Get Gum or Hard Candy

Professionals at Dental One Care say that many patients have said that chewing gum or sucking on hard candy helps them with the symptoms of dry mouth. Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI recommends that sugar-free gum or candy should be used for this purpose. This is because sugar can dehydrate the body and give oral bacteria a chance to multiply rapidly.

Tip #3 for Dry Mouth: Stay Clear of Caffeine, Alcohol and Acidic Juices

These three types of drinks aren’t good for people with dry mouth because they dehydrate the body and worsen the symptoms of dry mouth. Sterling Heights dentists also advise people with dry mouth to read product labels carefully in order to weed out those with alcohol. For example, many types of mouthwash have alcohol as an ingredient. You want to avoid using these products altogether.

Tip #4 for Dry Mouth: Always Moisten Food

It can be hard to chew dry food if you suffer from dry mouth. A useful tip, in this case, is to moisten all your food, such as bread, with milk, soup, broth, melted butter before you eat it. In this way, it will be easy for you to chew and swallow that food.

Tip #5 for Dry Mouth: Avoid Tobacco Products

We asked our friend, Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, about dry mouth tips. Dr. Kacos says that people with dry mouth to refrain from using any tobacco products, such as chewing tobacco and combustible cigarettes. This is because the chemicals in those products can dehydrate dry mouth sufferers further. Additionally, tobacco products can damage the salivary glands and this is why smokers and those who use other tobacco products have a higher likelihood of suffering from dry mouth.

Tip #6 for Dry Mouth: Buy a Humidifier

In the colder seasons, the air tends to be drier. This can make people with dry mouth feel their symptoms more acutely. Try using a humidifier to increase the relative humidity of the ambient air.

Tip #7 for Dry Mouth: Brush After Each Meal

Lack of saliva in the mouth means that they don’t rinse their mouth sufficiently. Consequently, bacteria may grow faster and their breath may develop a bad odor. Brushing after each meal can reduce these effects of dry mouth. Remember to dip your toothbrush in water before you brush your teeth so that the bristles aren’t hard on your gums.

Tip for #8 for Dry Mouth: See a Professional

It is imperative that you talk to a professional, like Dr. Farhat if you suspect that you have dry mouth. They will take the necessary steps to confirm whether you have the condition, and then recommend the best measures to take. For example, your doctor may prescribe some medication to stimulate your salivary glands to produce more saliva.