Reading Dental Associates Blogs

As a general rule, the sooner a tooth can get back into its socket inside the mouth, the better chance it has to survive long-term.1. When a tooth gets knocked out, it is important to pick it up while only touching the crown of the tooth (the crown is the part of the tooth that is normally visible inside your mouth.)  If you can’t find the tooth try as hard as you can to find it.  Although aspiration rarely occurs, it is possible that...

Even if you’re a die-hard daily flosser (which, let’s be honest, most of us aren’t even close to being), chances are, you see an occasional drop or two of blood post string-session. No big deal, right? Not so fast.Bleeding gums are never normal, not even when you have your teeth professionally cleaned.  Imagine your scalp bleeding when you brush your hair. In other words, if your gums are bleeding when you floss or brush your teeth,...

When we don't produce enough saliva, the mouth gets dry and uncomfortable. Dry mouth or xerostomia is common in older people affecting around one in five elderly people. Saliva moistens and cleanses the mouth, helps to process food and prevents infection by controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth. Some people mistake thirst for dry mouth, but the causes are different.Dry mouth can cause discomfort, affect speech and swallowing, affect...

A dental implant post hovering above an incision in the gums.  Beyond any doubt, dental implants represent the best available option for the replacement of missing or badly damaged teeth. In terms of strength, stability, and aesthetics, no other treatment comes close. Whether you are missing a single tooth, several teeth, or all of your teeth, implant-supported crowns, bridges, or dentures will allow you to restore form, function, and health...

Why is gum graft surgery performed?Based on current dental practice with available data, there are three indications for gum graft surgery:·  Root Exposure Related Problems- The patient cannot brush the exposed root surface; the dentist detects a lot of plaque and calculus on the root; or, there is the beginning of root decay. Gum graft surgery can be performed to cover and protect the root surface.·  Hypersensitivity - The patient...

Crown lengthening can minimize the amount of gum that's viewable in your smile and can make teeth look longer. But it's surgery, so consider it carefully before you make a decision.If you’re bothered by a “gummy” smile or teeth that you feel are too small, you may want to consider crown lengthening. Also known as a gum lift, this cosmetic dentistry procedure can beautify your smile by exposing more of your teeth. Crown lengthening has been...

The cost of your treatment will vary, depending on your individual needs and treatment plan. We will discuss the cost of your treatment and each of your available payment options with you before you begin, so you can make the best choice for you.When your child needs extensive dental work, you have to decide how you will pay for it. While some people have dental insurance, it doesn't always cover all the expenses. Dental financing plans, like...

Pros and Cons of All Types of BracesThe days of heavy-duty metal braces and headgear are long gone. Advancements in dentistry and orthodontics have resulted in many new types of braces for kids and adults. When it comes to modern orthodontics, you have a wide variety of options— some so advanced that no one may ever know you are wearing braces at all.Traditional BracesWhen you think of braces, the first thing that likely comes to mind is metal...

When parents visit our Orthodontist, it is not uncommon for parents to worry if their child’s baby teeth do not fall out on time. Infants rollover, sit, walk, and talk at different stages of their development. The same is true when your child is losing baby teeth. There are some developmental issues which require professional attention, but in general, what should parents expect when their kids start losing baby teeth?•  The first...

Any dentist with a dental degree can legally place an implant. Periodontal specialists complete two to three years of residency training after their four years of dental school. During residency, they are trained in surgical skills and procedures and the research-based knowledge supporting that treatment. The successful applicant receives a certificate or diploma in their specialty. The Periodontal specialist can then pursue becoming a...