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

Osteoporosis and Oral Health

November 5, 2019 by Claire Leave a Comment

Osteoporosis refers to a medical condition characterized by the brittleness of bones due to loss of bone density. The older one gets, the higher their risk of suffering from this condition. Research shows that dental x-rays are effective in identifying people with low bone density, which is one of the signs of osteoporosis. Since the majority of people visit their dentist more often than they see their doctor, your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI may be in the best position to spot the possibility that you could be suffering from osteoporosis. For those who already know that they have this condition, there are many implications for your oral health.

Notify Your Sterling Heights Dentist

If you are taking any medication for osteoporosis, inform our team at Dental One Care. This is vital because some of those drugs that you are taking could affect your dental health.

For example, the medicines that are given to strengthen bones (drugs called antiresorptive agents) have been linked to a rare complication called osteonecrosis of the jaw. This condition causes serious damage to the jaw and the jaw plays an important role in keeping your teeth firm.

Some antiresorptive agents are given to cancer patients to combat the tendency of high amounts of calcium to float in their blood. The more of these medications that you take, the higher your risk of developing dental problems.

How Antiresorptive Agents Affect Dental Treatment

The vast majority of patients who have been diagnosed with osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) are cancer patients that have received repeat doses of antiresorptive agents. Only 10 percent of people develop ONJ while taking low doses of antiresorptive agents as a treatment for osteoporosis, so you can see how important it is for you to inform your Sterling Heights dentist if you have cancer, osteoporosis or any other condition for which you are taking antiresorptive agents.

If your doctor recommends antiresorptive agents as part of your treatment, let your dentist know. Have this discussion with an expert at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights as soon as you can after starting the treatment so that an appropriate plan can be made to maintain your dental health during your treatment.

Keep Visiting Your Dentist

Under normal circumstances, it isn’t necessary to put off undergoing dental treatment while on antiresorptive agents. The odds of getting ONJ are very low. However, leaving a dental condition untreated poses a bigger risk of serious complications. Dental One Care experts recommend that anyone undergoing cancer treatment using antiresorptive agents should postpone undergoing any invasive dental procedure, such as dental implant surgery.

If there is a chance, talk to your dentist in Sterling Heights before you begin taking antiresorptive agents as a treatment for cancer. Your dentist will examine you and treat any dental disease that you have before you commence cancer therapy.

In the same vein, it is advisable that you tell your doctor or oncologist if you recently underwent any dental treatment. They will assess the situation and design an appropriate treatment plan that will give you the best outcomes.

Symptoms of ONJ

There are many signs and symptoms of osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). These include the following;

Infection, swelling or pain in the jaw or gum.
Recently treated or injured gums that aren’t healing as expected.
Loose teeth.
A feeling of heaviness or numbness of the jaw.
Exposed bone tissue.

When you observe any of those signs or any others, contact us at Dental One Care immediately. One of our experts will examine you and make an appropriate diagnosis or refer you to another specialist to start osteoporosis treatment.

As you can see, osteoporosis is a condition that can have serious implications for your dental health. It is therefore important for you to do everything possible to prevent this condition from developing. Our friend, Dr. Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, states that preventive measures include having a balanced diet (rich in vitamin D and calcium), exercising regularly, quitting smoking and consuming alcohol in moderation.

For more information on how your dental health can be safeguarded if you have osteoporosis, contact Dental One Care in Sterling Heights. We shall partner with you on your journey to maintain peak dental health.

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!

How Often Should I Visit The Dentist?

October 2, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Not everyone loves going to see a dentist, but these visits are necessary to maintain peak dental health. So, how often should you visit the dentist? The answer to that question depends on your overall health and the recommendation by Dr. Fardi Farhat, Sterling Heights, MI dentist, after assessing your dental health, as explained below.

Why Getting Professional Teeth Cleanings Is Necessary

One of the major reasons why you should visit Dental One Care in Sterling Heights is for your professional teeth cleaning. This cleaning is necessary because regardless of how vigilant you are in brushing and flossing your teeth, plaque and tartar will gradually accumulate on your teeth, especially on and beneath your gumline.

If the plaque and tartar aren’t removed periodically, you will develop cavities as a result of the bacteria build up on your teeth. Getting your teeth cleaned professionally by Dr. Fardi Farhat and our team at Dental One Care is, therefore, the best way to prevent cavities and gum disease.

Frequency of Dental Visits

Visiting the dentist every six months for a professional cleaning is a standard rule of thumb. Many health insurance companies cover your dental cleaning and checkup visit every six months.

However, some people face a higher risk of developing cavities and suffering from gum disease. Dr. Fardi Farhat recommends that these people come in for dental cleanings more often than twice a year. The following questions can help you to determine whether you are one of those people who need more frequent visits to Dental One Care in Sterling Heights;

Do you use fluoride-free toothpaste or drink water?
Do you have a sweet tooth or snack a lot?
Do you avoid flossing daily?
Do you find it hard to brush your teeth twice each day?
Are you more likely to visit a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI when you have a dental problem rather than going there for a checkup?
Does Dr. Fardi Farhat recommend fillings during each visit you make?
Do you have a lot of early cavities that are being watched by the experts at Dental One Care?
Do you currently have a dental device, such as dentures or braces?
Do you suffer from a chronic health condition, such as diabetes?
Were you diagnosed with dry mouth or think you have dry mouth?

If you responded in the affirmative to most of the questions above, you may need to see Dr. Fardi Farhat more frequently for cleanings and checkups so that any dental health problem you develop can be caught early.

In addition to the professional cleaning that you will get, our dentist in Sterling Heights, MI may also administer a fluoride treatment in order to reduce your risk of suffering from cavities or losing any of your natural teeth.

The Link Between Your Dental Health and Your Overall Health

Our friend, Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, explains that individuals who suffer from chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, are more likely to suffer from gum disease. For this reason, these people can benefit from more frequent visits to Dental One Care so that gum disease can be prevented or caught early.

Additionally, people who are on blood-thinning medication, as well as those taking infusions to combat osteoporosis, should also see the Sterling Heights dentist more frequently. This is because it is difficult to extract a tooth if someone is taking these medications, so the best approach is to put emphasis on preventive dental care to avert the need for extractions or other dental care procedures.

If you suffer from bleeding gums, see Dr. Fardi Farhat more frequently so that the periodontal disease causing this symptom can be managed properly before it causes you to lose your teeth.

Also, if you are a parent, you should set the right example for your kids by visiting Dental One Care frequently. Bring your kids with you, even if they don’t need any dental work or a checkup done. The fact that they see you going to Dr. Fardi Farhat in Sterling Heights, MI will teach them to value getting professional dental care on a regular basis and that habit will stay with them for the rest of their lives. That is how you can protect the smiles of your family members, and Dental One Care is here to support you in this regard.

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.

Reasons Why You Need an Oral Checkup

July 31, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Can you remember the last time you visited your dentist? If your answer is no, then you may have a severe 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 numerous oral problems 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.

Seven Reasons Why You need an Oral Checkup

Detect oral cancer

Oral cancer is a serious disease that can accumulate for some time before being detected by an individual. Like all cancer, the condition is life-threatening, and the sooner it is discovered, the more chances of it being treated. Since individuals usually overlook the early signs, 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 much 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

Gum disease is another typical result of plaque and tartar build-up. As tartar builds up on 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

Certain habits can cause damage to your teeth. Most individuals aren’t aware of such practices 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.

Ends up saving 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.

Best Ways to Keep Your Healthy Gums

June 26, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

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

Brush Twice a Day

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

Use the Right Toothpaste

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

Know When to Rinse Your Mouth

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

Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash

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

Floss Daily

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

Get Off Cigarettes

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

Schedule Dental Cleanings Every Six Months

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

Watch Your Diet

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

Stay Hydrated

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

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

8 Signs You Need Emergency Dental Care

June 21, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

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

Sign #1: Your Tooth is Loose

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

Sign #2: Severe Toothache

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

Sign #3: Aching and Bleeding Gums

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

Sign #4: Your Jaw is Swollen

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

Sign #5: Dental Abscesses

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

Sign #6: A Numb Tooth

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

Sign #7: A Metallic Taste in the Mouth

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

Sign #8: Constant Headaches

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

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

Reasons Why You Need an Oral Checkup

June 13, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

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

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

Detect Oral Cancer

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

Plaque

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

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

Gum Disease

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

Maintaining Good Oral Habits

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

Nail biting
Teeth grinding
Chewing ice
Jaw clenching

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

X-ray

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

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.

Types of Floss

May 29, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Types of Floss

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

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

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

Should you get flavored floss?

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

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

Dental flossers

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

Should you get an electric flosser?

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

How Do You Lose Tooth Enamel?

May 27, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

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

Tooth erosion leading to the loss of tooth enamel

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

Different factors that can lead to loss of tooth enamel

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

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

Identifying Tooth Erosion

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

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

Preventing tooth erosion

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

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

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