Pleasanton Dentist - Dental crowns: How long do they last? Why do they need to be replaced? - Smiles by Design in Livermore

 

I) How long should a crown last?

It would be reasonable to expect that a dental crown could last between five and fifteen years. Most likely a crown that has only lasted five years would be somewhat of a disappointment to your dentist. It's probably their hope that any crown they make for you will last ten years or longer. Depending upon the general wear and tear the crown is exposed to (chewing and biting forces, accidental trauma, tooth grinding) and how well you keep its tooth free of dental plaque, a crown can last somewhat indefinitely.

II) Why do dental crowns need to be replaced?

There can be a variety of reasons why a dental crown might need to be slated for replacement. They include: Damage/Breakage, Excessive wear, Complications with tooth decay, Failed cosmetic appearance.

A) The dental crown has become worn excessively.

Dental crowns are not necessarily more wear resistant than your own natural teeth, nor is it in your best interest that one should be. The ideal dental crown would be one made out of a material that has the same wear characteristics as tooth enamel. This way neither the crown nor your own natural teeth will wear the other excessively. Especially in those cases where a person has a habit of clenching and grinding their teeth, a dentist will sometimes detect a small hole on the chewing surface of a crown where it makes contact with an opposing tooth (a tooth that touches the crown when you bite down). Since the seal of the crown has been compromised, a new crown should be made before that point in time when dental plaque has had a chance to seep under and start a cavity. In some cases, it may be observed that a crown in causing excessive wear of the person's opposing natural teeth. If so, one solution might be to make a replacement crown from a different type of material (gold, dental ceramic) that is less abrasive to tooth enamel.

   

B) Tooth decay has formed at the edge of the crown.

While a dental crown can't be damaged by decay, the tooth on which it's cemented certainly can be. This means that if dental plaque is allowed to accumulate on a tooth in the region beyond the edges of the crown, a cavity can start. The worst-case scenario for a dental crown in this situation is that in order to be able to access the cavity, the dentist will need to take off the existing crown (an act that may or may not damage it). After the decay has been removed, in most cases ideal treatment involves making a new replacement crown.

C) The dental crown has broken or been damaged.

Dental crowns can break, or more precisely the porcelain component of one may fracture. With the exception of those that have worn excessively, it's rare to see an all-metal (gold) crown break. Any type of dental crown may need to be replaced because it was damaged when a dental procedure was performed. A common example lies with root canal treatment. We discuss this topic here: After root canal treatment, can the original crown still be used?

Broken porcelain crowns.

Some dental crowns are made in a fashion where their full thickness is porcelain (all-ceramic crowns, porcelain jackets). If one of these crowns fractures, it will likely break all of the way through, thus compromising the crown's integrity and seal, and therefore mandating its replacement. Another type of ceramic dental crown is of the "porcelain-fused-to-metal" variety. When this type of crown is fabricated the dental technician first makes a thin metal shell that fully covers over the tooth. A layer of porcelain is then fused to this metal so to give the crown a tooth-like appearance. In cases where a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown has broken, it's the layer of porcelain that has fractured off (usually revealing the metal that lies underneath, which is typically grey in appearance). While the function and esthetics of the crown may have been compromised, the crown's seal over the tooth has probably not been affected. Any dental crown that has broken should be evaluated by your dentist. Some minor damage might not be of much concern, and possibly remedied by buffing the area with a drill. In other cases, the crown will need to be replaced. Only your dentist can make this treatment determination, and only after they have had an opportunity to evaluate your specific situation.

D) The cosmetic appearance of the crown has become objectionable.

Some dental crowns are replaced because their appearance is no longer pleasing. Two situations where the cosmetic nature of a dental crown can change with time are:

1) The dental crown's edge has become visible and it has a grey appearance.

     

Sometimes, over time, the gum line of a tooth will recede. This is especially likely in those cases a person has been lax with their brushing and flossing activities. If enough recession takes place, the edge of a dental crown (which was originally tucked out of sight just under the gum line) will become visible. Inherent to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns is the fact that their edge will typically show some darkness (a hint of the grey metal that lies underneath the porcelain). If enough gum recession occurs, this dark edge will become visible, thus spoiling the cosmetic appearance of the crown. All-porcelain dental crowns do not suffer from this same inherent edge darkness. However, gum recession can expose that portion of the tooth (usually the root) that lies beyond the edge of the crown. Usually this part of the tooth appears darker or different in comparison to the color of the dental crown, thus spoiling the overall cosmetic appearance of the tooth.

2) The color of the dental crown no longer matches its neighboring teeth.

   

There can be times when, as years have elapsed, the color of a crown no longer closely matches the shade of its neighboring teeth. In these cases, it is not that the color of the porcelain crown has changed but instead that the neighboring teeth have stained and darkened. There can be two solutions for this situation. One is to replace the offending crown with a new one that more closely matches the current color of its neighboring teeth. Another is to use a teeth-whitening process in an attempt to return the neighboring teeth back to the color they were when the dental crown was originally placed.

source: http://www.animated-teeth.com/dental_crowns/t9_dental_crowns_alternatives.htm


http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermore.com

Tracy Dentist - Are silver fillings dangerous to my health? - Smiles by Design in Livermore

 



“Silver” fillings have been around for a long, long, long time. I know there are many people, dentists alike, that are concerned the materials in these types of fillings can cause health problems (the type and scope being too numerous to mention). In truth, silver fillings contain very little silver. They are an amalgam of metals mainly composed of silver, mercury, tin, zinc and copper. The concern seems to lie primarily with the mercury content in the filling material itself combined with the “leaching” of that material into the body.

Many studies have been done and the material has been proven safe. Although, many naysayers will disagree with this fact. Does anyone have a retired dentist friend up north that they play golf with during the summer?
These dentists used to mix the filling material by hand without gloves but they are still swinging those irons. The fact of the matter is that technology, being what it is, has moved into the future.

here are now better, more conservative options for filling teeth but that does not mean that you should have all of your fillings replaced. Most of us had those silver filling placed when we were young and in our cavity prone years.
It is true that as the materials age they begin to corrode and leak allowing cavity causing bacteria and acids to begin to breakdown the tooth around the filling.

It is also very common for teeth that have large silver fillings to break. This is due to the mercury content in those fillings which is soft and has the ability to contract and expand. The end result is a cracked or broken tooth. In those cases, the tooth should be fixed.

These types of silver fillings aren’t used much today. It’s not that they are harmful or bad there is just better technology available than there was in the past.

source: http://www.marconews.com/news/2010/jan/28/tooth-talk-are-silver-fillings-dangerous-my-health/
by FRED ECK


http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermore.com

Livermore Dentist - What causes Teeth Sensitivity - Smiles by Design in Livermore

 

 

What causes Teeth Sensitivity ?

The most usual causes of a tooth sensitivity problem are :

• Exposed root areas due to
• receding gums or periodontal disease.
• Dentin exposure caused by vigorous brushing with a hard bristled toothbrush or incorrect way of brushing teeth.
• Worn out enamel because of teeth grinding
• Enamel erosion caused by chemical agents or acidic diet
• Tooth decay, due to the lesions of the enamel surface

Teeth sensitivity can occur following routine dental procedures like teeth cleaning, root planning or tooth restoration.

Teeth sensitivity problems caused by dental procedures are temporary, usually disappearing in 4 to 6 weeks.

Teeth whitening, as a result of high abrasivity or/and chemical action of the whitening products' active ingredients on the tooth tissues. Teeth sensitivity during bleaching process has become a very common problem due to the wide spread use of at home whitening products.

What causes the pain in Tooth Sensitivity ?

• Sensitive teeth has become one of the most common teeth problems as people keep their original teeth longer. Gums are receding by age exposing the tooth below the gumline where dentin is covered by cementum that is much softer than the enamel of the tooth crown.
• The dentin contains a network of micro-tubules which run the full width of the dentin, from the pulp in the center of the tooth up to the outer edge below the enamel. If a tooth area loses its protective layer of the enamel or cementum, the dentin (and also the pulp via the tubules) becomes exposed to the outside oral environment.
• Nerve cells of the pulp extending inside these tubules can be stimulated by external heat, cold, or touch applied from the outside.

The external stimulation is thought to produce movement of the fluids within the tubules and tension of the nerve, making the teeth sensitive to hot and cold, and causing a strong pain signal to be sent by the nerve.

Potential risks of Teeth Sensitivity

Whatever the causes of tooth sensitivity, the real problem is not the pain itself but its consequences.

•   People who suffer from sensitive teeth problems, due to the pain caused during brushing, usually start avoiding their regular oral hygiene. Gradually this may lead to much more serious dental problems as tooth decay and gum disease.

Tooth sensitivity can also be a sign of tooth decay or cavities or a sign of a broken tooth or cracked filling.
If you have problem with sensitive teeth, consult your dentist to identify the root cause of the problem and advise you on the proper treatment.

How to prevent Teeth Sensitivity

As a remedy for tooth sensitivity problems you should :
Maintain good oral hygiene. Keep your gums healthy to prevent gums recession,
Use a soft bristled toothbrush.
Brush correctly without using excessive force. Horizontal movements of the toothbrush can cause abrasions of the enamel or cementum along the gum line.
Avoid very acidic foods and drinks to prevent teeth erosion.
Use a low abrasivity toothpaste. Whitening and anti-tartar toothpastes are usual causes of tooth sensitivity.

source: http://users.forthnet.gr/ath/abyss/dep1261.htm


http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermore.com

Pleasanton Dentist - Can Brushing your Teeth Hurt your Gums? - Smiles by Design In Livermore

You may have noticed that as people age their gum lines tend to recede. Is this caused by poor brushing techniques and can this be avoided?

An individual has two sets of teeth, the deciduous or the “baby” teeth, and the permanent or succeedaneous teeth that replace the baby teeth. The permanent teeth are meant to last the person a lifetime and there are thirty-to permanent teeth.



It is very important to take good care of the health of your teeth and this responsibility includes proper tooth brushing. One needs to properly clean all the surfaces of his teeth, to be able to maintain optimum dental health. Proper brushing techniques should involve using the right toothpaste, the right toothbrush and the right technique; making the wrong choice between the three will normally cause problems.
Using a poor brushing technique can lead to problems but can you hurt your gums because of it? The truth is that it will all be dependent on the stroke you use. If you are brushing too vigorously and not paying much attention to what you are doing, you can carelessly hit your gums with the edge of the toothbrush. Also, if you are using a “hard-bristled” brush, you will not only abrade hard tooth surface, but you can also damage the soft tissues of your mouth.

Choosing Health

While there is really no bad and good toothbrush, it is safer to assume that the one takes note of what experts say about tooth brushing and the right toothbrush to use. The American Dental Association recommends every patient to look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance, to know that you have the right tool to clean your teeth. The seal is more than sticker because it proves that the product has been properly evaluated by experts in in the dental field. It has gone through experimentation; and when you choose to trust the ADA, you choose health and you choose what is best for you.

The life of your toothbrush

Proper brushing is essential especially if you want to maintain the health of your teeth and mouth. While it should not bring any potential harm to your teeth and gums, one should be aware that everything has a life span, even toothbrushes. In other words, while your current toothbrush may be a great one, you need to know that your toothbrush should be replaced often.  Three months is the maximum length of time you should be using your toothbrush.  Many people struggle to know how long they have using their toothbrush and because of this, you can choose to use a indicator toothbrush which will give specific signs of wearing away.

source: http://www.teethcenter.com/can-brushing-your-teeth-hurt-your-gums/
by Teeth Center Staff


http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermore.com

Tracy Dentist - Different Methods of Brushing Teeth - Smiles By Design in Livermore

 If you have been to the dentist, you have probably been told that you need to improve your teeth brushing habits. There are many methods of brushing teeth, but, which is best and most effective

The dentist and his team holds the responsibility of taking care of your teeth and your overall dental health. When you entrust a professional to take care of your teeth, he will do all he can in his power to prevent, correct and treat any



condition you may be having. The extent of the dentist’s power is limited only to what he can do in his dental office. When the patient leaves and when he is away, the responsibility is given to you, the patient, to take good care of your teeth.

You can preserve the health of your teeth by maintaining your oral hygiene. Your oral hygiene practices should be diligent and observed regularly.  You should learn the importance of tooth brushing and the importance of employing the right method. Your toothbrush and toothpaste is the not the answer to dental problems; it is the right brushing method that should make the difference:

1. Stillmann’s Method: The Stillman Method is a good brushing technique for people who have are dealing with some gum issues. It involves making use of very gentle vibratory movements that is suitable for receded gums because the gentleness is perfect for the traumatized gingiva. The bristles of the toothbrush are directed to the teeth at a 45-degree angle, in relation to the long axis of the teeth, and small vibratory strokes are given.
2. Bass Method: The Bass Method of brushing is the most effective teeth cleaning technique. It can be used by anyone but it is perfectly designed for those who have compromised periodontal health because it cleans through the sulcus between the teeth and the gums, since the bristles are perfectly angulated at 45-degrees. The stokes are gentle, moving back and forth, almost circular.
3. Charter’s Method:  The Charter’s Method is best if you wish to clean through the proximal areas or the in-betweens of natural or artificial teeth. If you are a denture wearer, an orthodontic patient, and if you have a dental appliance in your mouth, this is the perfect brushing technique for you and just like the previously mentioned methods, you will need to angulate the brush at a 45-degree angle but facing the crown instead of the roots.
4. Fones’ Method: The Fones’ Method of brushing involves a simple circular brushing stroke and it is the perfect tooth brushing technique for children who are still learning to brush their teeth on their own.
5. Horizontal Scrub Method: This is the most common brushing technique and it is the most overused. It is also the least beneficial because it can cause increased gingival recession, even if you use the softest bristles and the gentlest of strokes.

Regardless of the type of method you employ, the most important thing you need to know is that proper brushing means cleaning all surfaces of your teeth as well as your tongue. Your goal should be to rid your mouth of bacteria; therefore, you need to clean your mouth of all the food particles that cling on the teeth and the tongue.

source: http://www.teethcenter.com/different-methods-of-brushing-teeth/
by Teeth Center Staff


http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermore.com

Livermore Dentist - Is Brushing After Every Meal Really Necessary? - Smiles by Design In Livermore

Most people know the age old advice about brushing twice a day.  Lately, though, it seems more and more people are advocating the routine brushing after each and every meal of the day.  Is this really necessary?  Can brushing bring too much harm your teeth?  Or is simply a case of better safe than sorry that has people reaching for their brush as soon as they laid down their fork and knives?

Why Brushing After Each Meal is a Good Idea
The idea behind brushing after each meal is, in fact, rooted in common sense dental health.  As you eat, food becomes trapped between your teeth as well as in order areas of the mouth.  When left to sit, these bits of food and organic debris begin to break down.  Since so much of our diets tend top be carbohydrate based, this means that those bits of food slowly become turned into sugar by our body’s natural digestive systems, which includes saliva.  As the food gets turned into sugar it can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and, of course, general bad breath.  This is why many people have begun to brush after every meal.  By brushing, flossing and rinsing, this cleans the mouth and doesn’t give the left over food any time to begin to wreak havoc on your teeth and breath.

Brush Brush Brush – But Not Too Much
The problem with this idea of brushing after every meal is that excessive brushing can actually lead to dental problems.   Too much brushing can often lead to brushing with too much force since this mid day brushing is often done in a rush.  Brushing too hard can damage the tooth enamel and can also run the risk of pushing the gums up, higher than their natural gum line.  This combination or enal damage and the shifting of the gum line can make it easier for bacteria to infiltrate under the gums and begin to attack the teeth.   So, in the end, something you thought was healthy for your oral health can actually begin to have an adverse effect.

A Happy Medium
When it comes to keeping your teeth clean throughout the day there are several options.  First, always begin with a foundation or proper oral care by brushing, flossing and rinsing your mouth thoroughly at the beginning and end of each day.  When you’ve eaten a mid day meal you can either brush your teeth gently in order to remove debris or you can also chew a sugarless gum.  While chewing gum is certainly no replacement for a good brushing, it does encourage more saliva production which helps to wash away food debris naturally and without harming your teeth or gum line.
Brushing your teeth several times a day can be beneficial to your oral health as long as you approach it with common sense.  Never scrub your teeth and don’t use a brush that has bristles which are too stiff.  This can result in the harming of both your tooth enamel as well as your gum line.  Instead, be gentle with mid day brushings and simply use the brush to gently brush away any debris.  This addition to your usual dental routine can help keep your mouth fresh and both your teeth and gum well protected.

source: http://www.teethcenter.com/is-brushing-after-every-meal-really-necessary/
by Teeth Center Staff


http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermore.com

Tracy Dentist - Can Tooth Sealant Prevent Cavities? - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Prevention is always better than cure. It is physically, emotionally, mentally and financially better to deal with the disease process before it hits the body, rather than to painstakingly address something that has already had some effects on the body. This is true with man’s general health and this is true in terms of man’s dental health. Dental caries is the most common dental problem that a person can suffer from and even if a patient tries his best to prevent the disease process from causing havoc in the mouth, dental caries can develop, especially on the deep grooves or fissures of the teeth.

The dental sealant is a plastic material that can be applied on the occlusal or biting surface of the tooth or teeth, so that food particles do not have a place to settle in the mouth, and cause dental decay. The dental sealant is applied much like a nail varnish or polish is put on the fingernails; a small amount of adhesive material is first applied on the surface to dry the tooth and open its pores. This makes the teeth ready for sealant application, and with a thin layer, the sealant is allowed to flow along the surface to fill the deep grooves and fissures, before it is cured with an LED light curing device.
Once the sealant hardens on the occlusal or biting surfaces of the teeth it will function much like a raincoat, protecting the teeth from potential harm that bacteria can bring. The dental sealant covers the deep grooves, so that food particles do not collect and bacteria cannot penetrate; and as long as this “seal” is on the tooth or teeth, you do not have to worry about becoming a victim of dental decay, which is not only painful, but with the potential to cause permanent consequences such as tooth loss.

Dental caries needs three things in order for it to develop in the mouth. For dental caries to develop in the mouth, it needs sugar from food broken particles, saliva and bacteria. Saliva and bacteria cannot be controlled as they are naturally inherent in the mouth. The accumulation of food particles in the mouth are prevented by proper oral hygiene measures such as brushing, flossing and gargling with mouthwash; but to better prevent dental decay from causing bigger problems, dental sealants are applied.

source: http://www.teethcenter.com/can-tooth-sealant-prevent-cavities/
by Teeth center staff

http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermore.com

Pleasanton Dentist - What is Tooth Sealant - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Tooth decay is a major problem affecting most people.  When it begins to cause problems in the mouth, it simply looks like a black line, seemingly unthreatening, When the dental disease process is allowed to progress in the mouth it can cause bigger problems that is more serious than a dark line on the occlusal or biting surfaces of the teeth. Bacteria will eat the hard tissues of the mouth, breaking it; and when the bacteria has come deep enough to expose and infect the pulp tissues, the patient will begin to feel some pain and sensitivity. If the infection spreads is left on its own course, the pulp can become inflamed, indicating a need for a pulp therapy or an even more unfortunate dental extraction.
The disease process in the mouth usually follows a slow progression, but once the disease is full blown, you are left alone to suffer the consequences. The best way to deal with dental cavities is to completely avoid them and that is where tooth sealants will become very important.

Investigations on the effectiveness of dental sealants began in the 1960s and after a decade, it was approved for use by the FDA, for use on dental patients. They are plastic-like coatings that are meant to seal the deep grooves and fissures on the tooth or teeth, so that food particles cannot accumulate and provide a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Sealants can actually be applied on any kind of tooth, but since the molars have deeper grooves and they are subjected to most of the masticatory forces of the mouth, they are most susceptible to tooth decay and dental infection. For this reason, the molars are most indicated for dental sealants; and although adult teeth can also be applied with sealants, it is most commonly done on the molars of children between the ages of 5 and 12 years.

source: http://www.teethcenter.com/what-is-tooth-sealant/
by Teeth Center Staff

Livermore Dentist - Can Cavities be Prevented with Good Brushing and Flossing? - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Brushing and flossing the teeth on a daily basis is the backbone of good oral hygiene, but can these two actions really work to prevent cavities from forming on the teeth?  If not, what other actions can be taken in order to effectively prevent the occurrence of cavities?




What is a Cavity?
Before we can begin to tackle the topic of whether or not cavities can be prevented through brushing and flossing, it is important to understand exactly what a cavity is and how it is formed.
Cavities are decayed spots on the teeth that present as black or brown spots, and/or holes in the surface of the teeth.  These are a result of a build-up of food particles that attract bacteria to feed on them.  This breaks down the enamel of the teeth, leaving areas of decay or holes.

Does Brushing and Flossing Prevent Cavity Formation?
The simple answer to the question of whether or not brushing prevents cavity formation is “yes”.  Dentists agree that brushing is a huge part of good oral hygiene, and good oral hygiene helps in the prevention of cavities.  Brushing the teeth serves to remove food particles left over after eating, and when the saliva of the mouth is unable to fully clean the teeth.  And, because brushing is not able to fully reach all areas of the mouth, flossing is extremely important.  Floss is able to reach in-between the teeth where foods can get caught and bacteria can thrive.  Flossing daily removes these particles, thus preventing a build-up of bacteria that can breakdown the teeth causing serious damage to the enamel, and ultimately cause a cavity.

Brushing alone can greatly assist in preventing cavities, but the rate of cavity prevention goes up when both brushing and flossing are used together.  It is recommended that an individual brush at least twice a day (in the morning after breakfast and at night before bed) in order to have the best effect on preventing tooth decay and tartar build-up.  Flossing is recommended at least once a day (at night) to remove all leftover food particles and bacteria before bed.  Because cavities are more likely to form overnight when the mouth is idler, flossing before bed has the greatest effect.  While flossing during the day does contribute to the overall health of the teeth, the effect is much greater when flossing is done at night, removing all cavity causing agents before sleep. 

Other Methods of Cavity Prevention
Brushing and flossing are excellent methods to prevent cavities.  In fact, they are the primary at-home activities for preventing cavities.  However, they are not the only methods out there.  Other methods that assist in cavity prevention are: using a fluorinated mouthwash, seeing a dentist at least two times a year, chewing sugar free gum between meals (keeps saliva moving throughout the mouth, thus removing bacteria), getting a new tooth brush every six months or less, and limit the consumption of foods containing large amounts of sugar (such as candy and cake).

source: http://www.teethcenter.com/can-cavities-be-prevented-with-good-brushing-and-flossing/


http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermore.com
by teeth center staff

Tracy Dentist - What Type of Toothpaste Is Best for Babies? - Smiles by Design in Livermore

 What Type of Toothpaste Is Best for Babies?



Brushing your teeth is a common part of getting ready for the day for most adults.  However, we often forget our humble tooth brushing routine beginnings.  Children need to begin working at establishing a good oral hygiene routine from a young age in order to maintain the health of their teeth, and mouth as a whole.  As a parent, this means helping your child to brush their teeth and checking to see that brushing is done properly, purchasing a good toothbrush, and choosing and purchasing the right toothpaste for your child’s needs.  This latter necessity can be difficult, especially for first time parents.  Unfortunately, just because our parents went through this routine with us, it doesn’t mean we know what to do and what to look for.  This is especially true since dental technology and research has changed and progressed, leading to better products available for dental health.

When to Begin Brushing
Before choosing toothpaste, it is important to know when it is safe to begin using one.  The oral hygiene habits of a child are different from those of an adult, so toothpaste use must be strictly supervised.
It is recommended that tooth brushing begin as early as 4 months or age, or as soon as teeth begin to bud from the gums.  Of course, at this point, the parents must do the brushing as the child is unable to.  Early tooth brushing generally consists of using gauze or another spongy surface to wipe the teeth clean of bacteria and/or plaque.  As the child grows and the teeth are used more extensively, it will be important to use a toothbrush and paste.  At the earliest stages or oral care, no toothpaste is needed, nor should it ever be used.

When to Start Using Toothpaste
When several teeth have popped through the gums, you can switch from brushing the teeth with a cloth to brushing with a very soft, small brush.  Some dentists recommend that toothpaste also be used at this point, while others hold off slightly longer.  If you’re concerned, consult your pediatric dentist for exact instructions.  What is agreed upon, is at this point in time, the right toothpaste will be fluoride free.  Swallowing too much fluorinated toothpaste is very bad for baby, so a fluoride free toothpaste should be used at this time.

Many pediatric dentists ask that their patients hold off on introducing any toothpaste at all until the child is one year old.  Fluorinated or not, this helps to prevent poisoning if the child is swallowing the toothpaste.  When using toothpaste, there are several brands that are available at local drug stores that cater to infants.  These include Baby Orajel brand which works to clean the teeth, but also offers a safe option for brushers from 4 months to 2 years of age.  Always start out with very small pea-sized amounts of toothpaste and work up as the child shows a better understanding of how to use the toothpaste.

When good brushing habits are established (good brushing habits and good toothpaste habits – not swallowing the paste) you can begin introducing fluorinated toothpastes.  Ask your pediatrician for recommended brands if you’re concerned.  Otherwise, there are a number of reputable brands, like Colgate and Crest with children’s editions.

source: http://www.teethcenter.com/what-type-of-toothpaste-is-best-for-babies/
BY TEETH CENTER STAFF

http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermore.com

Pleasanton Dentist - 5 Reasons to Care for Baby Teeth? - Smiles by Design in Livermore

5 Reasons to Care for Baby Teeth?




We sometimes assume that because baby teeth are not permanent a child’s oral care can be a bit more relaxed than an adult’s oral care.  Unfortunately, this simply isn’t the case.  Baby teeth, or primary teeth, are just as important as permanent teeth, even if they are going to fall out.  Still not convinced?  Here are five reasons why you should take care of your child’s baby teeth as best as possible.

Reason One
The first reason is one of the most obvious, although we may forget how important this is because we take advantage of it.  A child’s baby teeth are important because they allow for the child to intake food.  Biting and chewing is extremely difficult without teeth, so keeping them feeling good and healthy is very important.  No child wants to lose a tooth early and end up waiting years to get it back due to poor oral care.  Additionally, what child wants to feel pain when biting or chewing due to a cavity?

Reason Two
Another reason why care for baby teeth is important is because these early teeth contribute to the development and growth of the child’s jaw bones.  Without baby teeth, the jaw would not have a guide by which to align.  This could cause significant problems for the child, including significant pain.

Reason Three
Baby teeth may fall out eventually, but until they do, they serve the very important job of guiding the incoming of permanent teeth, as well as provide a sort of map for the placement of permanent teeth.  More specifically, baby teeth work to provide the correct spacing and reserve this spacing for the permanent teeth that will later come in.  Failure to do this may result in overcrowding or too much space between the permanent teeth.  While these problems may be fixable with braces and/or a retainer, both are expensive options and caring for the baby teeth to prevent these problems is a less costly option.  Furthermore, if baby teeth fall out due to decay, or have to be removed due to ill-care, a spacer may need to be placed in the mouth.  This can cause discomfort, and be costly.

Reason Four
Another reason to care for baby teeth is to prevent pain and discomfort on the part of your child.  Yes, it may be costly to have those early cavities removed, but would you want to live with a cavity for several years?  Probably not, and your child doesn’t want to either.  Brushing daily, flossing, and using mouthwash (when OK’ed by a dentist) is extremely important, but when this fails and a cavity presents, seeing a dentist right away is extremely important.
Additionally, infections in the baby teeth can lead to lasting problems in the gums.  This may continue to affect the gums into their adult life.  Infections may also spread to cause problems with the permanent teeth.  One potential problem is damage to the growing permanent tooth.

Reason Five
Lastly, baby teeth are important because they provide a great canvas for learning good oral hygiene.  The oral hygiene habits learned in childhood will be taken with your child into adulthood, so teach them to brush well, floss daily, rise with mouthwash once to twice a day, and visit a dentist twice a year, and these habits will last into adulthood and help your child have and maintain healthy teeth.

sources: http://www.teethcenter.com/5-reasons-to-care-for-baby-teeth/
BY TEETH CENTER STAFF

Livermore Dentist - Sedation Techniques for Children - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Sedation Techniques for Children



Adults aren’t the only ones who get uneasy when thinking of dental work, even if that dental work is just a simple cleaning, children do too.  So, the latest in dental technology and care allows for the sedation of not only adults, but children too.  However, because children are smaller and their bodies aren’t always able to handle the same sedation techniques and methods as adults, there are special sedation methods and techniques that cater to this very special and sensitive population.


What is Sedation?
Maybe it’s your child’s first dental visit and you’re worried about their reaction to the sounds and sensations associated with dental care.  Perhaps you’ve already taken your child to the dentist once and they were ridden with anxiety or were so restless that getting any actual dental work done was a lengthy and trying process.  No matter what the reason is you’re considering sedation, it is important to understand what sedation is before reviewing and deciding on a sedation technique.

Some parents are worried about undertaking a sedation technique because they’re afraid of using something harsh or having their child put under anesthesia.  However, the reality is that sedation does not work in the same way that sedation does.  Instead, sedation works to put the child into a relaxed and sometimes drowsy state so that they feel a great deal more comfortable with cleanings and other dental work.  This means that your child feels less discomfort, and cooperates for the dental procedures much better than they did/do without sedation.

Sedation Techniques for Children
As follows are the options for the sedation of children.

Conscious Sedation
Conscious sedation is a form of sedation that is often given to children who need a lot of dental work done, who are very anxious, or who have special needs.  This form of sedation relaxes the child, but still allows the child to maintain their natural reflexes, as well as allows them to respond naturally to questions from the dentist.  Conscious sedation can be given in one of four different ways, and which method is chosen depends on the preferences of the parents, child, and dentist, and what methods are available.  Conscious sedation methods include: intravenously, injection, inhaling a gas, or swallowing a medicine (pill or liquid form).

Oral Sedation
If a child is exceptionally anxious, perhaps more so than is commonly experienced in a child, oral sedation may be recommended.  Oral sedation is stronger than conscious sedation, and often makes the child drowsy, sometimes the child may even fall asleep.  However, unlike anesthesia, the child can be aroused, and they can respond to questions and commands.  Oral sedation is given as a medication in the form of a pill or liquid.

Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, often simply referred to as “nitrous” is the most common sedation method.  Nitrous is a more middle of the road type of sedation.  Those with mild anxiety or nervousness are perfect candidates for nitrous treatments.  Nitrous is administered as a gas that is mixed with oxygen and given through a nose mask during dental treatment.  Many people like nitrous because as soon as the mask is removed, one’s conscious state returns.

source: http://www.teethcenter.com/sedation-techniques-for-children/
BY TEETH CENTER STAFF

http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermore.com

Pleasanton Dentist - Gum contouring - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping, is a cosmetic form of dental treatment used to improve the general look of a person’s teeth. It is primarily used in cases where the individual has what is commonly known as ‘gummy smile’. This is a condition in which the gums cover too much of the teeth, usually the front teeth, and this can leave the length of the teeth looking too short, which can affect a person’s general desire to smile.

Such a condition may be caused due to genetics, health circumstances or as a result of certain high blood pressure prescriptions. This can have an affect on an individual’s self-confidence and may see them do their best not to smile in public. Thankfully, gum contouring is a dental treatment which is painless and able to solve the problem of ‘gummy smile’ through quick and painless treatment.

What is ‘gummy smile’?

A gummy smile is only considered so when there is a high percentage of gum covering a person’s front teeth. This is commonly caused by genetic factors, but it can also be due to certain health conditions or as a side-effect to some high blood pressure medication. Such a condition can cause a person’s self-esteem to plummet and can make the process of smiling an unappealing one. This is a condition that mainly affects the front teeth but can also shape other teeth out of sight. ‘Gummy smile’ is not so much a medical dilemma but is more of an aesthetic problem. It can however have a negative affect on an individual’s self-confidence, affecting their mental welfare, which is why gum contouring is such an important dental treatment.

What is gum contouring?

Gum contouring is a procedure which is most commonly done through the use of a scalpel. However, technological advances have seen special laser devices emerging in the treatment of ‘gummy smile’. The scalpel or laser will be used to trim away at any excessive gum overlying the teeth. This is a quick and often painless treatment. The scalpel will make the process slightly longer, and the laser also has the added bonus of being able to seal blood vessels during the procedure. This will help to limit the amount of blood released due to the incision. Along with the use of crowns and veneers after the treatment is complete, gum contouring is a simple procedure that can easily remedy ‘gummy smile’.

What does the gum contouring procedure involve?

To begin with a local anaesthetic is used to take away feeling from the area where the procedure is to commence. The scalpel or laser device will then be used to trim away at the excessive gum that is covering the front teeth. As well as cutting away at the gum, the dental practitioner will also work to reshape the gum that is to remain in place. The healing process is relatively quick, but will be made faster if the laser device is used, as it works to seal blood vessels, in order to prevent excessive bleeding once the procedure is complete.

There are certain instances in which the removable and reshaping of the gum is not enough. If this is the case then the dental practitioner may need to remove some of the bone in which the teeth are rooted. This will be down to the judgement of the dental practitioner, should they think the gum will reform too far down on the teeth. This may seem more daunting to some than the mere removable of excessive gum, but it is just as simple a procedure. Once treatment is complete you may be prescribed with veneers or crowns to help improve the look of your smile.

Benefits and risks of gum contouring

This is a treatment that can work a treat to improve your smile and self-confidence. However, as with most procedures that involve cutting into tissue and bone there are certain risks involved.

• The healing process is quick and simple, but will take slightly longer if a scalpel is used.
• This is a relatively painless procedure. You will be unable to feel anything during the procedure due to the local anaesthetic.
• There may be the need to remove bone to improve the look of your teeth. This is a simple procedure.
• The removal of too much gum can make it difficult for the designated area to heal properly. This can lead to swelling and may need to be corrected through further treatment.

source: http://www.cosmeticdentistryguide.co.uk/gum.html

 

http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermore.com

Tracy Dentist - New Study Suggest Blackberries Are Key To Healthy Gums - Smiles by Design in Livermore

A new study has suggested eating blackberries could hold the key to healthy gums.

The study, published in the Journal of Periodontal Research, claims blackberries have antibacterial properties which can help to reduce the risk of gum disease and maintain gum health. Previous studies have also highlighted the health benefits of this fruit, suggesting that they can help to stop the spread of cancerous cells in the body.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, said eating a healthy, balanced diet and plenty of fruit and vegetables is beneficial for oral and general health. A healthy diet can reduce the risk of oral health problems including oral cancer and other serious medical conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.

Dr Carter said it was an ideal time of year to start thinking about changing your diet to include more healthy foods. He suggested adding blackberries to your diet and keeping up a good oral hygiene regime.

He added that oral hygiene is simple and does not take much time. Yet many people still neglect their oral health and gum disease and decay are common. Dr Carter recommends brushing twice a day with fluoridetoothpaste, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash, and visiting your dentist at least once every six-twelve months for check-ups.

 

http://www.cosmeticdentistryguide.co.uk/news/new-study-suggest-blackberries-are-key-to-healthy-gums-0033