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

Getting Rid of Calculus Build Up

September 18, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Many people use the word calculus or tartar and plaque as though they mean the same thing. While these names refer to similar things, they are different but all can be due to several dental health problems, like gum infections and tooth decay. It is important to learn what these substances are and discover the simple steps that we, at Dental One Care, recommend you use to get rid of plaque and tartar.

Plaque and Tartar: How They Differ

Plaque refers to a biofilm of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Or, to put it more bluntly, plaque is a bunch of bacteria grouped together on the surface of your teeth.

While that description may gross you out, plaque formation is a natural process that happens in everyone’s mouth. In fact, Dr. Fadi Farhart explains that as soon as you finish brushing your teeth, the process through which plaque forms starts taking place.

The saliva that forms in your mouth has glycoproteins that protect your teeth. However, those same glycoproteins also provide a surface on which oral bacteria can stick to creating a biofilm of bacteria starting to form on your teeth.

The oxygen in your mouth then allows the population of bacteria to grow rapidly, and plaque is the result.

If you look at your teeth in the mirror, the yellow, black or orange tint you may see on some parts of your teeth is plaque.

Once you have plaque, the stage is set for tartar or calculus to form as well, unless you take steps to halt that process.

Tartar is plaque that stays long enough on your teeth until it hardens. A combination of saliva and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) causes the hardening of the bacterial biofilm (plaque) due to the minerals contained in these fluids (saliva and GCF).

Because saliva is crucial to the formation of tartar, tartar tends to form in the areas of your mouth where plenty of salivae is present, like around your molars and incisors. Calculus can also form on the gum line of all your teeth since saliva collects and sits there for a while.

Since tartar is plaque that has hardened, there is no difference between the appearance of plaque and tartar.

Why It Is Important to Remove Plaque and Tartar

From a cosmetic point of view, tartar and plaque are gross, and that alone is enough to emphasize why it is important to remove these buildups from your teeth.

However, more importantly, plaque and tartar increase your risk for cavities. Sterling Heights Dentist, Dr. Fadi Farhart, explains that the longer plaque and tartar stay on your teeth, the greater the chance that oral bacteria will damage your teeth and cause cavities.

Our team at Dental One Care also caution that as plaque and tartar remain on your teeth, you could suffer worse problems, like tooth infections, and you could ultimately lose the affected teeth.

Home Remedies to Get Rid of Plaque and Calculus from Teeth

Brushing and flossing help remove plaque and calculus on an ongoing basis, but despite your best efforts at these oral hygiene routines, plaque and tartar will still form on your teeth. Here are some home remedies that you can use to complement brushing and flossing as plaque-fighting measures:

Get anti-tartar toothpaste. Check for toothpaste that is specifically formulated to help users fight the accumulation of plaque and tartar on their teeth. Ask Dr. Fadi Farhart for advice on the appropriate anti-tartar toothpaste.
Tap the powers of baking soda. You can also remove plaque and tartar at home by brushing your teeth using a mixture of baking soda, a bit of salt and water. Dr. Kristina Neda at Thorough Dent Smiles in Georgetown, Kentucky, explains that this mixture helps in two key ways. First, the baking soda scrubs the plaque and tartar off your teeth. Secondly, baking soda is anti-microbial, so it will kill the bacteria responsible for the formation of plaque and tartar.
Use orange peels. Get an orange peel and gently rub its inner surface against your teeth. This will kill the bacteria causing plaque and calculus to buildup on your teeth.
Chew raw vegetables. A dentist in Parker, CO, Dr. Christopher Green, recommends chewing raw vegetables as a way of removing plaque from their teeth. The fibers in the vegetables clean the teeth and remove accumulations of plaque.
Use mouthwash. It is advised to rinse your mouth with mouthwash on a daily basis. Dr. Farhart says doing this kills the bacteria in your mouth and reduces the rate at which plaque forms. Additionally, using mouthwash also helps you clean the hard-to-reach areas of your mouth.

Get Your Teeth Cleaned Professionally

The DIY measures above can help rid your teeth of tartar and plaque, but they can only go so far. The best way to get rid of all the plaque and calculus is by visiting Dental One Care so a member of our team can provide teeth cleaning services using the best tools for the job, like special brushes and scrapers. Getting your teeth professionally cleaned once every six months will keep you safe from the problems that could result from plaque and calculus.

Top Causes of Tooth Decay

August 30, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

The best form of treatment is prevention. However, when dental treatment is necessary, you can depend on Sterling Heights dentist, the well-trained staff to make dental care more comfortable for you in a state of the art environment. Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems in the world and often becomes the catalyst for other forms of dental problems. In this article, Dr. Fardi Farhat explores the top causes for tooth decay

What is tooth decay?

Tooth decay, also known as a cavity, occurs when the acid made by bacteria present in your mouth starts eating away at your teeth. Initially, the decay is unnoticeable on the enamel (the outer layer of the teeth) and then slowly moves to the Dentin (middle layer), and finally to the pulp, where the highly sensitive blood vessels and nerves are located. In order to understand how to prevent it, we must first understand what causes tooth decay.

What causes tooth decay?

Tooth decay is a gradual process which starts with demineralization (loss of tooth minerals) and goes on all the way to form a cavity. It occurs when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches) are stuck in the teeth in places from where they are not completely removed through brushing and flossing. Some of the major causes of tooth decay are:

Poor oral hygiene: Lack of brushing allows the buildup of plaque, which then attacks the tooth enamel. Oral hygiene is not limited to just brushing, though. You should make flossing, mouth wash, and brushing your tongue a part of your oral hygiene routine too.

Sweet/sugary foods: Bacteria feeds and thrives on sugar, enabling it to make the harmful acid that starts the process of tooth decay.

Tooth grinding: Excessive tooth grinding, mostly done unknowingly during sleep, damages the enamel, thus opening the way for tooth decay.

Acidic foods: Drinks like soda and fruit juice are also known culprits behind the breaking down of enamel and thus tooth decay.

Dry mouth: Saliva in your mouth helps wash away the food residues and thus preventing the food particles from being trapped in the teeth. Therefore, a dry mouth becomes more vulnerable to tooth decay.

Early signs and symptoms of tooth decay

As mentioned earlier, tooth decay has several steps involved in the process, and if the treatment begins in the earlier stages, it will be easier and quicker to get rid of the problem. Contact your Sterling Heights dentist as soon as you notice any of the following symptoms:

Toothache
Stains/spots on your teeth
Noticeable hole/pits in the affected tooth
Tooth sensitivity

However, often, these symptoms can go unnoticed and are only identifiable through X-rays. Therefore it is crucial to visit your Sterling Heights dentist for regular checkups in order to avoid unnecessary pain and trouble.

Prevention of tooth decay

Tooth decay can be prevented by enacting a proper and effective oral hygiene routine. Follow the steps below for optimal oral health:

Brushing your teeth: You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably with a fluoride toothpaste. Ideally, you should be brushing your teeth after every meal.
Dental floss: It is recommended to floss your teeth at least once a day, in addition to brushing.
Limit sugary foods and drinks: It has already been established that bacteria and sugary foods are the best of friends. Thus a decrease in their intake amounts to a decrease in chances of tooth decay.
Regular dentist visits: Following the steps above does not guarantee prevention of tooth decay, as sometimes the plaque cannot be cleaned with brushing and floss, and requires removal by your Sterling Heights dentist.

Treatment of Tooth Decay

Treatment of tooth decay depends upon the severity of the decay:

Fluoride treatment: This is an early-stage treatment where fluoride restores enamel, preventing further decay.
Tooth Fillings: The decay is removed by a drill, and then filled with a substance like silver, composite resin, or gold.
Crowns: For a severe cavity, a custom fit cap replaces the natural crown of the tooth after removing the decay.
Root canal: When the decay has reached the pulp of the tooth and affected the nerves, a root canal is performed to save the tooth.

Myths About Oral Cancer

August 28, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

6 Myths About Oral Cancer

Does the mention of oral cancer, bring up any particular images or memories in your mind in the same way that other cancers, such as breast cancer and prostate cancer, do? If you don’t think oral cancer is serious cancer, then take a moment and think about the fact that one person dies of oral cancer in the U.S. every hour. That is a whopping 24 people every single day! You can now see how important it is for everyone to get accurate information about this form of cancer so that as many people as possible can be saved from its clutches. Here are some myths about oral cancer that should not detract from your understanding of this condition.

Myth #1: Younger People Cannot Get Oral Cancer

Many people believe that they are too young to suffer from oral cancer. This dangerous myth prevents them from taking the steps that they need to take to detect the disease early enough for successful treatment.

The fact is that while oral cancer is more common among older people, it can affect people of any age, including children and young adults. Dr. Fardi Farhat insists that the best way to be certain that you don’t have oral cancer is to under regular screening for the disease.

Myth #2: Only Smokers Suffer from Oral Cancer

We asked our friend, Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, about oral cancer. Dr. Green explains smokers are indeed at a heightened risk of acquiring oral cancer, but many other risk factors predispose non-smokers to this cancer. For example, a family history (a child, parent, or sibling suffering from the disease) of oral cancer increases the risk that someone will also have this disease even if they don’t smoke. So, don’t think that you are immune from oral cancer simply because you don’t smoke. See a dentist in Sterling Heights for regular oral cancer screening so that you can be sure that you don’t have the disease.

Myth #3: You Don’t Need to Be Concerned About Oral Cancer If You Don’t Have Pain

It is also wrong to believe that you don’t need to be concerned about oral cancer if you aren’t experiencing any pain.

Pain may be a symptom in some cancers, including oral cancer, but pain alone (or its absence) cannot be relied upon as an indicator of whether someone has oral cancer or not. Some oral cancer lesions don’t cause any pain, so the disease may progress undetected if you are waiting for the pain in order to take action.

The best way to know for sure that you don’t have oral cancer is to undergo oral cancer screening each time you visit Dental One Care for your dental checkup every six months.

Myth #4: Stress Causes Oral Cancer

While everyone could do with a little less stress, the high levels of stress today cannot be blamed for the oral cancer cases we see. Dr. Fardi Farhat emphatically states that to date, no direct link has been found between stress and the development of oral cancer.

However, stress has been linked to other health challenges, such as obesity, high blood pressure, and insomnia. This could probably be the reason why some people have mistakenly linked stress to oral cancer.

Myth #5: You Will Get Oral Cancer If It Runs In Your Family

While dentists in Sterling Heights, MI will tell you that one of the known risk factors for oral cancer is a family history of the disease, this factor doesn’t on its own determine whether someone will get the disease. Several factors, such as one’s diet, alcohol, smoking, exposure to HPV or HIV, often combine to trigger the onset of the disease. It is worth repeating here that having a family history of oral cancer, or any other cancer for that matter, isn’t the only predictor of one’s chances of getting the disease.

Myth #6: Oral Cancer Isn’t Dangerous

When one compares oral cancer to other forms of cancer, such as breast cancer and cancerous brain tumors, one can see that oral cancer isn’t as aggressive as those other cancers. However, Dr. Fardi Farhat stresses that oral cancer is also dangerous as exemplified by the statistic mentioned at the beginning of this blog post that oral cancer kills at least one American every hour. You should, therefore, avoid taking this cancer lightly under the mistaken belief that it isn’t dangerous. Get screened at Dental One Care and start treatment early if you are found to have the disease.

As you can see, it may sometimes be hard to separate fact from myth if you don’t talk to a professional about what you hear or think. It is therefore advisable to visit Dental One Care regularly and put any query you may have about oral cancer to Dr. Fardi Farhat. The Sterling Heights dentist will give you the accurate information that you need, as well as screen you for the disease. Fortunately, chances are high for a complete cure if the disease is caught early, so don’t hesitate to undergo regular screening.

11 Tips for Invisalign Patients

August 21, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Because Invisalign aligners are worn for up to 22 hours each day, it isn’t uncommon for patients to be concerned about the way their day-to-day lives will be affected by this treatment. Dr. Fardi Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI has compiled the following tips and tricks to help each patient get the very best from Invisalign while minimizing the inconveniences associated with wearing the aligners.

Switch Aligners While Going to Bed

The highest degree of soreness, tenderness or even pain tends to be felt by Invisalign patients when they have just switched from one aligner to another.

While this soreness or tenderness is unavoidable, Dr. Fardi Farhat recommends that patients switch aligners just before going to bed rather than in the morning. This timing is advisable because the adjustment to the new aligner will happen while you sleep and the soreness will be no more (or will be considerably lessened) by the time you wake up.

Make Cold Compresses Your Friend

The tip above will address the worst of the discomfort that you feel each time you start using a new Invisalign aligner, but some residual soreness or tenderness may carry over into the next day or two. For such situations, a cold compress placed outside the mouth will go a long way towards alleviating the discomfort.

Mind What You Eat

We asked our friend, Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, KY, to share her tips for Invisalign patients. Dr. Neda explains that just like any cosmetic dentistry treatment, you’ll need to be mindful of what you eat. When you feel sore as a result of wearing Invisalign aligners for the first time, one of the worst things that you can do is to eat foods that are chewy, crunchy or crispy. This is because such foods will place an added strain on your teeth and gums, and this is not what you want.

Dr. Fardi Farhat recommends that you refrain from consuming crunchy, crispy or chewy foods while wearing Invisalign aligners so that you don’t strain your teeth unnecessarily.

Adopt the Right Sleeping Position

In the beginning, patients may notice that they produce a larger volume of saliva when they wear Invisalign aligners for the first time. This excessive production of saliva will gradually reduce as your oral structures become accustomed to the aligners.

Before that normalization happens, it is wise to prop up your head and lie on your back while you sleep. This will reduce how much saliva you produce while you sleep and it will prevent drooling.

Breathe Through the Nose

The excess production of saliva that happens in the first few days when you start wearing Invisalign aligners can cause this saliva to flow out of your mouth if your mouth stays open while you sleep.

One way to prevent this flow of saliva is by keeping your mouth closed and only breathe through your nose. If you breathe through the mouth by default, talk to your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI and you will get advice on which specialist to see so that you don’t suffer avoidable inconveniences while wearing Invisalign aligners.

Always Have an Aligners Case

As Dr. Fardi Farhat will tell you before you get your set of Invisalign aligners, you should remove these aligners each time you are going to eat or chew anything and put the aligner back in your mouth after brushing or cleaning the teeth and gums after eating.

The ability to remove your Invisalign aligners periodically carries a risk that the aligners will be lost or damaged during the time that they are out of your mouth. To prevent such an eventuality, it is advisable to have a case in which you can place your aligners at all times. Talk to a Sterling Heights dentist for advice on which case to acquire if you currently don’t have one.

Avoid Hot or Pigmented Beverages

You can take drinks while wearing an Invisalign aligner. However, caution should be taken when taking pigmented beverages, such as coffee, because these may stain the clear aligners.

In the same vein, avoid taking hot drinks while an aligner is in your mouth. The hot drink will warp the aligner and your treatment may be compromised. This is not to say that you shouldn’t drink anything hot. Instead, be aware of the risk and remove the aligner before consuming the hot or pigmented drink.

Don’t Worry When Kissing

You can kiss your partner while having an Invisalign aligner in your mouth. However, you are also free to first remove the aligners before you kiss if this will make you more comfortable. Note that colored lipstick and lip-gloss will stain your clear aligners, so keep the aligner out of your mouth if this risk of staining is present when you kiss.

And the Photo Shoot!

The shiny aligners will make your smile bright in photos, and this is a good thing because any imperfections in your teeth will be masked. However, when the camera is focused on your face or mouth, the clear aligners may be visible, so you may need to get creative and avoid these kinds of photos as much as you can if you are concerned that people will know that you wear aligners.

In the long run, you will develop healthy dental habits as a result of the little adjustments that you make to your lifestyle while you wear Invisalign aligners. These good habits will serve your dental health in good stead, so embrace those changes as lifelong habits. If you still have questions about Invisalign aligners, or indeed about any aspect of your dental health, give us a call at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights. Dr. Fardi Farhat and the entire team will gladly address your concerns and give you the care you need to get your dental health back.

How to Choose a Dental Crown

August 19, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

If you have just undergone a root canal, or your tooth was extensively damaged due to physical trauma, or you lost a tooth and want to replace it with an implant-supported restoration, your Sterling Heights dentist may recommend that you have a crown placed. One of the major decisions that you will have to make subsequent to deciding to get a crown is choosing the material from which that crown can be fabricated. The experts at Dental One Care recommend that you read this blog to the end so that you can have the information you need to make the best choice when faced with that question.

Gold Crowns

In the past, gold was the most common material from which dental crowns were made. Today, this material is no longer as popular because of the prohibitive cost of gold. For example, an ounce of gold can cost upwards of $1,300! Another reason why gold crowns aren’t as common is that these crowns aren’t esthetically pleasing since they don’t resemble natural teeth.

However, gold is an excellent choice if the crown will be placed in a part of the mouth that isn’t visible when you smile, such as at the back of your mouth. Dr. Fardi Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI explains that gold is a very good choice for a crown because it has a long track record of not causing any reactions or sensitivities when it is placed in the mouth.

Additionally, the Sterling Heights dentist says gold crowns are very strong and will easily take in stride all the bite forces exerted upon them while you chew. This is the primary reason why these crowns have been known to last for 40 or more years.

Another reason why you should consider gold crowns is that preparing your tooth for this type of crown doesn’t involve removing a lot of enamel from the tooth. This minimal preparation is important because you will be less likely to develop sensitivity to temperature extremes or pressure. If you can afford the cost, a gold crown would, therefore, be the best option for you.

Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) Crowns

If a pure gold crown is out of reach for you, porcelain fused to metal crown can be a good way to enjoy the strength of gold without incurring the high cost of pure gold crowns. For PFM crowns, the substructure or core is made from gold or any other precious or semi-precious metal. These include platinum and palladium. The exterior or visible part of this crown is made from porcelain.

Dr. Fardi Farhat reveals that PFM crowns usually have a metal rim that is visible at the bottom of the crown. This rim can eventually show through when your gums recede, and this can detract from the visual appeal of the crown.

In terms of durability, PFM crowns can last between 7 and 12 years, so you can see how superior gold crowns are on durability alone.

Stainless Steel Crowns

Sterling Heights dentists may recommend a stainless steel crown, but these tend to be temporary. This explains why children whose milk teeth have decayed extensively or those that are too weak to support a filling are treated with stainless steel crowns.

This crown covers the entire tooth, just as crowns typically do. As the milk or baby tooth grows, the stainless steel crown grows with it and will come off once that baby tooth makes way for the permanent tooth.

Note that stainless steel crowns aren’t aesthetically appealing, but you can contact Dental One Care in Sterling Heights, MI and talk to Dr. Fardi Farhat about other options that are more esthetic for your kid.

Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are also referred to as all-ceramic dental crowns. These crowns are the most common these days because they look like natural teeth and a casual observer cannot know that you have a crown in your mouth.

Porcelain crowns are also suitable for teeth in any part of your mouth, so there are no limitations on where they can be placed. They are popular because they don’t cause users to develop tooth sensitivity as is the case when you have crowns made from metal. Porcelain also doesn’t trigger any sensitivities, so they are good for people who have a history of reacting to metal crowns.

Types of Porcelain Crowns

When you visit Dental One Care for porcelain crowns, Dr. Fardi Farhat will assess you and select from one of two types of these crowns. The first is the e.Max porcelain crown. This crown can be made and placed on the same day when you visit, and it forms a very strong bond with your tooth.

The second type of porcelain crown is one made from Zirconia. This is the strongest type of porcelain used to make dental crowns and advancements in dental technology have made it possible to make this crown virtually identical to natural teeth. However, Zirconia crowns don’t bond as strongly with the tooth as is the case with e.Max porcelain crowns.

What You Need to Know About Porcelain Crowns

There are a few downsides that you need to know about all types of porcelain dental crowns. First, these crowns will crack or break more easily when compared to other types of crowns. Secondly, these crowns can accelerate the rate at which the opposing teeth wear out due to the contact between the porcelain and the natural teeth. Furthermore, preparing a tooth for a porcelain crown requires the removal of a significant amount of enamel, unlike what happens for gold crowns, for example.

In terms of durability, porcelain crowns last anywhere between 5 and 10 years. As already mentioned, the care you provide for these crowns will protect them from fracturing or cracking, and this will be beneficial to their durability.

Note that because people are different, a dental crown material that is appropriate for one person may not be advisable for another person. For this reason, it is better for you to visit Dental One Care in Sterling Heights so that Dr. Fardi Farhat can examine you, take your medical history and then recommend the most appropriate dental crown material for your needs.

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.

How to Take Care of a Temporary Filling

July 29, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Many reasons could explain why your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI, may place a temporary filling on your tooth. For example, you may have just undergone root canal therapy and are waiting for a crown or gold filling for the tooth. Regardless of the reason for getting the temporary filling, you must learn about temporary filling care for the best outcomes. Dental One Care recommends the following for people who have just got temporary fillings.

Know the Setting Time of Your Temporary Filling

As Dr. Fardi Farhat, a Sterling Heights dentist, may have told you before your procedure, many kinds of temporary fillings exist. Each of these different temp fillings have their own setting time. Knowing how long it will take you to get set helps you be extra cautious about the filling.

Watch What You Chew

Dr. Fardi Farhat usually advises patients to avoid using the side of the mouth with the temporary filling to chew. While this is the ideal to aim for, it is possible that in the weeks during which you have the temporary filling you will forget and use that side to chew.

When that happens, don’t worry as long as you are gentle while chewing. However, you need to avoid chewing any sticky, hard, or crunchy food items, such as nuts and toffee. Chewing gum is also a no-go if you listened carefully to the temporary filling care instructions given by your Sterling Heights dentist.

Be on the Lookout for Unusual Sensations

After your dental procedure, the anesthesia will take a few hours to wear off. During this time, the treatment area of your mouth will be numb. Desist from eating anything while you’re numb because you could bite the side of your mouth or even your tongue.

As the effects of the anesthesia wane, you may experience tingling sensations. Avoid using your tongue to press on the filling or manipulate it in any way to combat the unusual sensations that you experience. Otherwise, the temporary filling may be dislodged. The tingling will subside on its own as the anesthesia wears off.

Brush and Floss Carefully

Dr. Fardi Farhat dispels any thinking that special techniques have to be used while brushing or flossing if you have a temporary filling. The same techniques you use to perform these oral hygiene routines apply while you have a temporary filling. However, you need to be specific and use only toothbrushes with soft bristles since harder bristles may put the temp filling at risk of being dislodged. Also, brush gently.

Similarly, when removing the floss, remove the floss from the side of the tooth instead of straight up. Straight up motions can snag a temp filling that is close to a tooth’s edge, and this could make you lose that filling.

Talk to Your Sterling Heights Dentist Before the Procedure

The best way to be certain that you know all the temporary filling care tips is by having a detailed discussion on the subject with Dr. Fardi Farhat before you undergo the procedure that necessitates the placement of a temp filling. This discussion will give you ample preparation for every step that you need to take from the time you leave the dental office. All in all, it isn’t difficult to take care of your temporary filling. Adhere to the care recommendations given to you at Dental One Care and your temp filling will remain in place until your tooth gets its final restoration.

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.

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.

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.