How Cold Summer Treats Freeze Your Teeth

Posted on by Dr. Dana Walters

When you eat a cold summer treat, it cannot literally freeze your teeth. However, pain from sensitive teeth is one reason to consider avoiding ice cream and popsicles.
What Are Sensitive Teeth?

There are many possible causes of sensitive teeth. You may have worn enamel on one or more teeth, a fractured tooth, or cavities. Your nerves may be exposed if you have receding gums.

These common causes of sensitive teeth can make it painful to eat frozen treats. While everyone reacts differently to sensitive teeth, you may find the pain is not worth the effort if you eat these cold products.
Summer Treats: Tasty But Not Healthy

Even if you do not have sensitive teeth, these popular cold treats are not the best choice during the summertime. Ice cream and popsicles both contain plenty of sugar, but they may have other ingredients that harm your teeth, too.

The sugary syrups can destroy tooth enamel. If you eat tasty cold treats this summer, it may result in sensitive teeth or cavities in the future. Excessively hard products, such as shaved ice and nuts in ice cream, may result in a chipped tooth when you bite into these products.
Preserve Your Oral Health In The Summertime

Oral health is important throughout the year, but it can be a special concern during the summertime. Your kids are on summer vacation, and you may have time off from work. It can be tempting to fill the freezer with sugary treats, or visit the ice cream truck whenever it comes along.

For the sake of your oral health, and your entire family’s health, take a different approach this summer. As occasional treats can become a habit, start healthier habits for your family.

Instead of traditional summer treats, enjoy cool, fresh fruits. You can have better oral health instead of harming your teeth.

Share

Why It’s Important to Choose the Right Dentist

Posted on by Dr. Dana Walters

Your dentist is a health care provider, similar to your personal physician. As you know the importance of choosing the right doctor, the same is true for your dentist.
Are You Looking Forward To Your Next Dental Appointment?

You may be surprised to learn how many adults do not visit the dentist unless they have an emergency. In many cases, it is not because they cannot afford it, or cannot fit appointments into their schedules. Many people avoid the dentist because of bad experiences they had when they were young.

From small children to elderly persons, individuals need to feel they can trust their dentists. Fear should not be a part of dental visits. When you have the right dentist, a dental appointment will not be a worrisome experience. A good dentist inspires trust and confidence in his patient.
What If You Need Dental Treatment?

Under ideal circumstances, your experiences with dentistry will include twice-annual exams and cleanings. You will have a dental professional to answer your questions. However, choosing a dentist is also important when you need any type of dental treatment or dental work.

You want a dentist who is fully qualified to treat your particular dental issue. Whether you need implants, a filling for a cavity, or root canal therapy, a dentist’s training and experience will make a difference. Your treatment can be completed without complications, and the least amount of difficulty for you.
You can look at choosing a dentist the same as choosing a personal physician. When you are looking for a dentist who will meet your needs today and in the future, make an appointment to meet the dentist in person. When you see his overall attitude and professionalism helps you feel comfortable and confident, your oral health care will always be a positive experience.

Share

What’s the Difference Between Dental Bridges and Dental Crowns?

Posted on by Dr. Dana Walters

When you want to improve your appearance and your oral health, you may be thinking about dental treatments. Crowns and bridges are two different types of restorative dentistry, and they are used for different purposes.

What Are Dental Crowns?

Crowns are used to restore the condition or appearance of a tooth. A crown can be attached to the tooth to make it stronger, restore a tooth that has been damaged by a cavity or filling, or to cap a tooth that is misshapen or discolored.

Crowns can also be used as a part of a dental implant. After an implant has been placed in your gums, a crown is attached to the top. The crown is the part of the implant that is used for chewing, and looks like a natural tooth.

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. The bridge is made of an artificial tooth that is permanently attached to the adjacent natural teeth. As it is permanently in place in your mouth, cleaning a dental bridge is no more difficult than cleaning your natural teeth.

A second type of dental bridge is the removable bridge. Removable bridges are sometimes referred to as partial dentures. Similar to traditional dentures, a removable bridge should be taken out of your mouth regularly for cleaning.

The difference between crowns and bridges depend on your particular situation. Whether you want to improve a natural tooth, obtain an implant, or replace missing teeth, these types of restorative dentistry make it easy.

Crowns and bridges are simple procedures that your dentist can complete in a relatively short period of time. You can have better oral health, look much nicer, and enjoy many nutritious foods that you cannot easily eat with damaged or missing teeth. Call our office if one of these dental treatments is right for you.

Share

Choosing a Mouthguard to Protect Your Teeth

Posted on by Dr. Dana Walters

If you grind your teeth or play sports, it is essential to guard your teeth against damage. Both of these activities can cause teeth to chip, wear down, or worse. Many times, using a mouthguard can help.

Types of Mouthguards:

Stock Mouthguards- These units are available on store shelves and are ready for your teeth without any preparation. They are the least expensive option. However, little can be done to change the fit, which means that they may be uncomfortable in the mouth. They offer the least amount of protection.

Boil and Bite- Most sporting goods stores offer these mouthguards. Their plastic material softens in warm water, which makes them moldable in your mouth.

Custom-Fitted- This kind of mouthguard offers unique protection and is crafted by your dentist for a perfect and individualized fit. An impression of your teeth is taken so that it is extremely comfortable and functional. It is the most expensive choice, but the results are the best.

Who Needs a Mouthguard? Mouthguards are smart ideas for people who play contact sports. For instance, in football, a player may injury his mouth during a tackle. Also, tooth damage is common with sports like ice hockey as well.

Tooth grinding is quite common. It can happen at any time of day, but it most often occurs while a person is sleeping, which means that he or she is not aware of the problem until it is too late. When a person grinds his or her teeth, tooth enamel wears away, and teeth may start to chip or crack.

If you feel as though a mouthguard may be appropriate for you, it is best to visit your dentist. Dr. Dana Walters commonly crafts these devices for his patients so that their smiles are protected and remain unharmed. For more information, call our office today.

Share

Are Dentures Right For You?

Posted on by Dr. Dana Walters

Are Dentures Right For Me Dana Walters DDS July 2017Dentures may not be as popular as they were in the past, but this does not mean they are not useful. There are a number of reasons to consider dentures over other options. Dentures may be the best choice for you.

 
How Many Missing Teeth Must Be Replaced?

If you are missing all or most of your natural teeth or if many of your teeth are in poor condition and need to be replaced, dentures can be the option that is right for you. Whether you need a full set of dentures or partial dentures, it is easier and much less expensive than alternative methods of tooth replacement. In fact, cost is one of the main reasons people choose dentures.

 
How Quickly Do You Want Tooth Replacement?

It takes very little time to create a perfect set of dentures. Whether you want to look nice for a special occasion or are looking forward to eating healthy foods, dentures can be the dental treatment for you when you want the fastest results.

 
How Much Bone Is Available?

When you do not have adequate bone, dentures can be the best solution. Although bone grafting is possible, it can be time-consuming and expensive. If you have already lost a considerable amount of bone, you may want to avoid the complications associated with implants by choosing dentures instead.

 
If you do not currently have a general dentist, call Dr. Dana Walters for an appointment. We can discuss your needs and preferences, and help you decide if you are a good candidate for dentures. Modern dentures are effective and look almost like your natural teeth.

When you have dentures, you will like the way you look again and be able to enjoy a healthy diet. A better life awaits without missing teeth.

Share

When Is A Root Canal Necessary?

Posted on by Dr. Dana Walters

When is a root canal necessary? Dr. Dana Walters July 2017We have all heard of a root canal, but how exactly do patients become eligible for the treatment? The American Dental Association explains that a root canal treatment may be necessary when a tooth’s pulp (within the tooth) becomes damaged or inflamed. During treatment, the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and other tissue, is removed. There are a number of signs that are present when this procedure must be performed.

Signs that a Root Canal is Necessary

  • At home symptoms – When a person is experiencing pain or swelling in his or her mouth, an infection, possibly leading to a root canal, may be present. Pain may throb, be severe during sleep, and change throughout the day.
  • Dentist Observation – In certain cases, a person may experience no pain. During a routine dental examination, however, a dentist may detect a problem.
  • Test Results – If a problem is present, a dentist may perform tests. Percussion, X-rays, and thermal testing may determine whether a root canal is needed.

What Causes a Tooth to Need a Root Canal?

There are many circumstances that may make a tooth susceptible to damage. Depending on the damage, a root canal may be required.

  • Deep Cavity – Drilling too deep into a tooth may cause problems and make the mouth extra sensitive. In this case, a root canal supersedes a filling.
  • Repeated Dental Procedures
  • Cracks or Broken Teeth – When cracks develop, they may spread deep within a tooth and severe decay may begin.
  • Tooth Injury/trauma

When a patient maintains a solid dental hygiene routine and visits his or her dentist regularly, a restored tooth may last a long time. Most often, a root canal is simple and will only cause minimal discomfort.

If you are experiencing pain in a tooth and suspect that you may require a root canal, do not hesitate to seek treatment. Dr. Dana Walters is a professional who deals with all types of general dentistry issues. He strives to restore maximum oral health to all of his patients. For an appointment, call his office today.

Share

The Purposes of Mouth Guards

Posted on by Dr. Dana Walters

The Purposes of mouth guards Dr. Dana Walters June 2017A mouth guard can protect your oral health, as well as your overall health. It is definitely a versatile appliance to discuss with your dentist.
What Is A Mouth Guard?

There are different types of mouth guards and each has a purpose. The first is a mouth guard used for sports and other activities. Athletes are highly recommended, if not required, to wear one.

This small, comfortable device is worn inside the mouth. It provides protection for the teeth and gums if impact to the mouth occurs. Examples include impact from another player, sports equipment, or falling while playing a sport.

The mouth guard can prevent a wide range of injuries. The wearer will not break or chip his teeth, bite his tongue, or have his teeth loosened from his gums. It even offers protection for the gums and jaw.

The second type of mouth guard is meant to be worn during the night. Individuals who grind their teeth while sleeping have a higher risk of oral health problems. Grinding can loosen teeth, wear down tooth enamel, and may contribute to TMJ disorders. The mouth guard is an effective way to prevent nighttime grinding.
Dental Techniques For Mouth Guards

The simplest way to obtain a mouth guard is to consult with your dentist. As not all mouth guards are alike, he or she can help you choose one that is right for you.

When you start by talking to your dentist, you will have the most comfortable, effective experience. Whether you need a mouth guard for sports or to prevent nighttime grinding, you will have better results than if you simply buy a mouth guard online or from a sporting goods store.

To take an important step in protecting your oral health, schedule an appointment with Dr. Dana Walters today.

Share

Treatments Offered For Teeth Grinding

Posted on by Dr. Dana Walters

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can ruin a person’s smile. It is a habitual condition that is difficult to stop, especially during times of stress. To prevent permanent damage in your mouth, it is important to uncover a dental treatment that may break this habit.

Reasons People Grind Their Teeth

Even though many people grind their teeth to deal with stress or anxiety, a number of individuals do it when they have crooked or missing teeth. Since it often occurs during sleep, a person may not be aware that they are doing it.

Symptoms of Bruxism

  • Flattened Teeth
  • Tooth Sensitivity
  • Neck or Jaw Pain
  • Headaches
  • Sleep Disruption
  • Worn Enamel

Dangers of Bruxism

When a person grinds his or her teeth, it can cause cracks or chips to develop in teeth. It can wear away enamel and lead to tooth loss. Besides visible problems, teeth grinding can lead to jaw pain.

Finding an Effective Dental Treatment

The American Dental Association explains that bruxism can be effectively treated in a number of ways.

  • Dental Corrections – When a misaligned bite is to blame, a dentist can perform a cosmetic procedure that evens teeth.
  • Mouthguards – When a person grinds his or her teeth at night, a dentist may fit a patient’s mouth with a guard that is worn during sleep. This device keeps teeth separated to avoid damage caused by grinding.
  • Stress Management – If stress is the cause of bruxism, a person may practice relaxation techniques that keep the jaw from clenching together.
  • Treating Sleep-Related Disorders – Sleep apnea is a condition that often causes bruxism. When a person seeks medical attention for this type of disorder, the grinding is eliminated.

If you are looking for a solution to bruxism, it is helpful to consult with your dentist. Dr. Dana Walters can help you stop grinding your teeth and will recommend ways to maximize your oral health. For an appointment, call our office today.

Share

5 Tips for A Glowing Smile

Posted on by Dr. Dana Walters

Your smile is a very important component of your appearance. Having healthy teeth can raise your self-esteem. To maintain your pearly whites, it is essential to follow a solid dental hygiene routine. Here are five tips that will keep your smile glowing.

1. Replace your Toothbrush Regularly. Your toothbrush is an essential part of your oral care routine and it is important to replace it regularly. Over time, bacteria accumulates. Also, its bristles become worn and frayed. It is advised to buy a new one every three or four months.

2. Remember Your Tongue. Although your tongue does not show when you smile, it is important to take care of it. Your tongue will fill with bacteria that can cause bad breath and other oral health concerns. It is wise to brush both your teeth and tongue daily.

3. Fluoride is Important. To prevent cavities, fluoride is helpful. It is a mineral that keeps tooth enamel strong so it can resist acid that leads to decay. The easiest ways to receive adequate fluoride is by brushing with a toothpaste that contains fluoride and to drink water that contains the mineral. Regular tap water usually has the right amount of fluoride for a healthy mouth.

4. Avoid Sugary Snacks. Most people know that eating and drinking foods with tons of sugar is bad for their health. It is also bad for their smiles. When you snack throughout the day, it is best to choose healthier options and to brush as frequently as possible, so food particles are completely removed from your teeth. As sugary foods sit, plaque develops. Plaque contains bacteria that can cause decay.

5. Visit Your Dentist. It is always smart to schedule yearly appointments with your dentist. This professional will check your mouth so that small problems are detected before larger ones develop.

Dr. Dana Walters specializes in cosmetic dentistry and is trusted in smile makeovers, giving his patients a glowing appearance. For an appointment, contact our office today.

Share

A Smile Makeover With Teeth Whitening

Posted on by Dr. Dana Walters

Think of how you feel when you smile. If you are embarrassed by your teeth because they are not as white and bright as they were in the past, you may not smile very often. You are ready for a smile makeover, so you can smile with confidence.
What Is A Smile Makeover?

You have a number of options for teeth whitening. Your dentist’s approach is the best option. Unlike over the counter whitening products, whitening as a dental treatment is easy and effective. As you complete the process at home, it is also private.

Whiter teeth starts with two products your dentist will provide. Your dentist will prepare trays that are the perfect fit for your teeth. He will give you a peroxide solution to use with these trays.

In the privacy of your own home, you just need to apply the peroxide solution directly to your teeth. Place the tray over your teeth, and wear it for a few minutes. Depending on the condition of your teeth, you may need to repeat the process several times.

You can have a smile makeover in a short period of time. It is a simple process that you can easily complete without assistance.
Why Do You Need A Smile Makeover?

There are many ways teeth can become stained, discolored, or dull. Your teeth may have lost their whiteness due to a poor diet, dental hygiene, certain medications, or even natural aging. You do not have to live with unattractive teeth when teeth whitening is so easy.

Look in the mirror and ask yourself if your teeth meet your expectations. If they are not as white as you would like them to be, consider Dr. Walters and his treatment options. Your smile can become your best feature when taking advantage of whitening solutions. You can be proud of your smile again.

Share