Types of Braces

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The procedure takes from 30 minutes to one hour in the dental office, and teeth can become slightly sensitive just after the treatment. Bleaching features a chemical solution that is painted on the teeth, and a special light often is used at five-minute intervals to help activate the solution, which is an oxidizing agent. Patients also can have their teeth whitened at home in a procedure called nightguard bleaching. This approach involves a custom-fitted mouthguard that holds a bleaching gel in close contact with the teeth and is worn about two hours daily, day or night, for about two weeks, although the amount of time and the duration of the treatment can vary depending on individual needs.

The ADA does not recommend over-the-counter tooth bleaching products that are self-administered. Although such products may cost less, bleaching should be done only under the supervision of a dentist after an oral examination and diagnosis of the discolored teeth. Some people with certain dental conditions may not be good candidates for bleaching, such as patients with gum recession that has left sensitive tooth roots exposed.

An alternative to composite resin for invisible tooth restoration is glass ionomers composed of fine glass particles. Like composites, glass ionomers can be used to fill cavities, particularly on exposed root surfaces that are composed of dentin, which is softer and more sensitive than tooth enamel.

What Causes Bad Breath?

What you eat affects the air you exhale. Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, contribute to objectionable breath odor. Once the food is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is transferred to the lungs, where it is expelled. Brushing, flossing and mouthwash will only mask the odor temporarily. Odors continue until the body eliminates the food. Dieters may develop unpleasant breath from infrequent eating.

If you don’t brush and floss daily, particles of food remain in the mouth, collecting bacteria, which can cause bad breath. Food that collects between the teeth, on the tongue and around the gums can rot, leaving an unpleasant odor. Dentures that are not cleaned properly can also harbor odor-causing bacteria and food particles.

One of the warning signs of periodontal (gum) disease is persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth. Periodontal disease is caused by plaque, the sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. The bacteria create toxins that irritate the gums. In the advanced stage of the disease, the gums, bone and other structures that support the teeth become damaged. With regular dental checkups, your dentist can detect and treat periodontal disease early.

Bad breath is also caused by dry mouth (xerostomia), which occurs when the flow of saliva decreases. Saliva is necessary to cleanse the mouth and remove particles that may cause odor. Dry mouth may be caused by various medications, salivary gland problems or continuously breathing through the mouth. If you suffer from dry mouth, your dentist may prescribe an artificial saliva, or suggest using sugarless candy and increasing your fluid intake.

Tobacco products cause bad breath, stain teeth, reduce one’s ability to taste foods and irritate gum tissues. Tobacco users are more likely to suffer from periodontal disease and are at greater risk for developing oral cancer. If you use tobacco, ask your dentist for tips on kicking the habit.

Bad breath may be the sign of a medical disorder, such as a local infection in the respiratory tract (nose throat, windpipe, lungs), chronic sinusitis, postnasal drip, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbance, liver or kidney ailment. If your dentist determines that your mouth is healthy, you may be referred to your family doctor or a specialist to determine the cause of bad breath.

Caring for Your Smile

Eliminating periodontal disease and maintaining good oral health is essential to reducing bad breath. Schedule regular dental visits for a professional cleaning and checkup. If you think you have constant bad breath, keep a log of the foods you eat and make a list of medications you take. Some medications may play a role in creating mouth odors. Let your dentist know if you’ve had any surgery or illness since your last appointment.

Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste to remove food debris and plaque. Brush your tongue, too. Once a day, use floss or an interdental cleaner to clean between teeth. If you wear removable dentures, take them out at night. Clean them thoroughly before replacing them the next morning.

Mouthwashes are generally cosmetic and do not have a long-lasting effect on bad breath. If you must constantly use a breath freshener to hide unpleasant mouth odor, see your dentist. If you need extra help in controlling plaque, your dentist may recommend using a special antimicrobial mouthrinse. A fluoride mouthrinse, used along with brushing and flossing, can help prevent tooth decay.

Crowns, inlays and onlays are typically fabricated from an alloy, a combination of metals. Alloys may contain precious metals such as gold and palladium, or non-precious metals such as nickel or chromium. In either case, they are extremely durable, with many crowns lasting 20 years or more.

Crowns also can be made entirely of porcelain, or made with metal lining to which an outer layer of porcelain is fused. Crowns made entirely of ceramic also are available today, but questions remain about their durability and strength when subjected to the intense chewing pressures generated when we eat. The best advice is to consult your dentist if you are interested in a ceramic restoration, particularly for back teeth.

The Zoom in-office whitening system will make your teeth dramatically whiter in just 45 minutes. The procedure is simple. It begins with a short preparation to cover your lips and gums, leaving only your teeth exposed. The Zoom! dental assistant then applies the proprietary Zoom whitening Gel, which was designed to be used with a specially designed light. The Zoom light and gel work together to gently penetrate your teeth, breaking up stains and discoloration. With proper care you will have a wonerful smile for years.

To start Invisalign we will need to take impressions of both upper and lower arch (teeth), and take a series of pictures. Once we have all impressions and pictures we will be sending them out to have custom aligners made for just for you! It will take the Invisalign lab about 2-4 weeks to fabricate the aligners. Once we have the aligners we will set an appointment for you to come in and recieve your first 3 sets of alingers. Every aligner must be worn for 2 weeks and we will be giving you 3 sets at a time so you will only come into the office every 6 wks!

Most dental hygienists recommend having the teeth professionally cleaned at least once every 6 months. More frequent cleaning and examination may be necessary during the treatment of many of the dental/oral disorders.

However, in between cleanings by a dental hygienist, good oral hygieneis essential for preventing cavities, tartar build-up, and gum disease.