Simple Ways to Strengthen Your Teeth – Walled Lake Dental Office
Your teeth are amazing. Their primary purpose is to grind your food so it can be digested. Your molars, the large teeth in the back of your mouth, actually have the ability to exert over 200 pounds of pressure on the foods you are eating.1 But tooth enamel can break down and when it does tooth decay can occur and lead to dental problems, including cavities, sensitivity and pain.
Keeping tooth enamel strong is especially important for older adults whose teeth have endured years of wear.
For those 65 and older, the chance of having tooth damage severe enough to require a root canal or similarly invasive procedure triples.2 The good news is that there are some simple things you can do to protect your vital tooth enamel.
Foods for Your Teeth and Overall Health
What you eat is key to strengthening your tooth enamel. You can actually strengthen weak enamel by eating more dark leafy vegetables, dairy and protein-rich foods.3 If you aren’t able to introduce more dairy products into your diet, choose other calcium-rich foods such as greens (collards, mustard, kale and bok choy), canned salmon with bones, sardines, calcium-fortified soy milk, fruit juices and cereals; blackstrap molasses and broccoli.4
Research has found eight items that should be diet staples for those wishing to keep not only their teeth healthy, but their hearts as well. They include: tea, cheese, raisins, crunchy foods (carrots, apples, cucumbers), sugarless gum, milk, cranberries and vitamin-rich foods that are high in calcium (cheese, almonds and leafy greens) and/or phosphorous (meat, eggs, fish).5
Foods with Natural Sugar
Nutrition is so important for your teeth that it is worth repeating that to maintain oral health it is necessary to eliminate as much refined sugar and acidic items as possible from your diet. Fruits and vegetables that contain natural sugar are actually good for you. In fact, although it is acidic, grapefruit has been shown to improve gum health and kiwis, limes and cranberries have been shown to kill oral bacteria.6 Remember to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after eating grapefruit or any acidic or sweet food as they soften enamel and brushing too soon after their consumption can actually damage your tooth enamel.
What you drink is also important. When you drink a 12-ounce can of cola, for instance, you are generally consuming 39 grams of sugar which equates to 9.75 teaspoons of sugar.7 The American Heart Association recommends consuming no more than 6 teaspoons of added sugar for women per day and 9 teaspoons for men.8
Daily Oral Health Practices
Flossing your teeth once a day and brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day for two minutes per session are other effective ways to strengthen tooth enamel, as is rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash. The American Dental Association (ADA) cites fluoride as “nature’s cavity fighter.” In addition to strengthening your teeth, fluoride fights acid assaults on your teeth and helps repair the early stages of tooth decay. When you brush, do so gently so that you don’t wear down the tooth enamel. Use a soft bristled brush and hold it at a 45-degree angle to your gums, moving the brush back and forth with gentle strokes.
For those who are prone to cavities or who have crowns on their teeth, toothpaste which remineralize tooth enamel can be helpful. Consult your dentist on whether you would benefit from a remineralizing toothpaste or remineralizing treatments performed in the dentist’s office. Always choose toothpaste with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
Health Conditions and Dental Health
There are health conditions that can lead to weakened tooth enamel. Make sure your dentist is aware of your health challenges and diagnoses. Eating disorders and gastric issues, such as acid reflux disease or heartburn, are two health issues which can produce enamel eroding acid in the mouth. Dry mouth is another condition that can lead to enamel erosion, as saliva in the mouth actually works to wash away food and bacteria that can lead to cavities. Drinking water can help minimize dry mouth, as can chewing sugarless gum or sucking on sugarless hard candy.
Many of the simple ways to improve your oral health are the same tips to improve your overall health. Tackling one simple change, like eliminating sugary drinks from your diet, or brushing your teeth twice a day, can really help improve your chances of avoiding cavities, gum disease and tooth sensitivity and pain.
The goal of our Walled Dental Office is to keep your teeth and mouth healthy so your overall health will benefit as well. Dr. Hechtman and his dental staff are committed to helping patients achieve long term dental health by offering a personalized experienced with a full range of dental services and effective treatments.
With over 40 years’ experience, our dental clinic can address all your dental health concerns through every life stage including children’s dentistry, smile restoration, dental treatments, cosmetic dentistry and more! Call today for a Free Dental Consultation!
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All About Your Manual Toothbrush – Walled Lake Dental Office
The toothbrush is a very old tool. In 3500 BC, the Babylonians and Egyptians used chewing sticks, similar to a modern toothbrush, to clean their teeth.1 The Chinese added bristles to the toothbrush during the Tang dynasty (619 to 907 AD) and by 1885, American companies were mass producing toothbrushes with boar bristles and bone, ivory or wood handles.
A toothbrush is one of the best tools you have to protect your teeth and safeguard your oral health.
Most people don’t realize, however that there are important things to know about a toothbrush that can help keep your teeth and gums in the best shape possible, including how a toothbrush should fit your mouth, how soft or hard it should be, how often you should use your toothbrush, and how often you should get a new toothbrush.
What is the Best Toothbrush Size?
When shopping for a toothbrush, how the brush fits is an important consideration. While you can’t try out a toothbrush and take it back if it’s the wrong size, given the relatively inexpensive cost of a toothbrush, you won’t go broke by selecting and buying several sizes and trying them out.
The head of the toothbrush should easily fit into your mouth and you should be able to brush one to two teeth at a time.2 The average size toothbrush head for adults to easily access all surfaces of their teeth is a brush head that is one-inch long, a half-inch wide and one-inch tall.
When selecting the right size toothbrush head, make sure that you can easily access and clean hard-to-reach spots like the sides and back of your molars.3 Other hard-to-reach spots include the insides of your lower and upper front teeth. These spots are susceptible to tartar buildup because many people can’t adequately clean in these areas. Sometimes a specialized type of brush head, like an angled or compact brush head, can be helpful in reaching these spots. Adults with small mouths often prefer compact brush heads or even youth or child-sized toothbrushes so they are able to brush behind the back teeth.
Hard of Soft Bristles?
While you might think that a hard bristled toothbrush cleans better than a soft bristle brush, if you brush your teeth too vigorously with a hard bristled brush you can actually damage the gums, root surface and protective tooth enamel.4 Because of this danger, experts recommend that most people select a soft-bristled toothbrush. If you want to be even more cautious, select a toothbrush that has rounded tips on the bristles.
How Often Should You Use Your Toothbrush?
Like any tool, a toothbrush isn’t helpful if you don’t use it. The American Dental Association recommends that you brush your teeth at least twice a day for a minimum of two minutes using an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste.5 They further recommend that you clean between the teeth each day by using dental floss and that you use a fluoride mouth rinse each day. Eating right and seeing your dentist regularly is also part of their recommendation for good oral hygiene.
How Often Should You Replace Your Toothbrush?
Replacing your toothbrush at the proper interval is very important to maintaining good oral health. If your toothbrush bristles look worn, frayed, or splayed outward, it’s time to get a new toothbrush. The rule of thumb is that manual toothbrushes or electric toothbrush heads should be replaced when you see signs of wear or at a minimum of every three months.
Clinical research on flat trim manual toothbrushes has revealed that a new toothbrush can remove up to 30 percent more plaque than one that is three months old.6 If you have been ill, replace your toothbrush right away to prevent reinfection.
If you aren’t sure of the best toothbrush for you, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist. They are familiar with your individual dental health history so they are the best source of expert advice to help you maintain a beautiful and healthy smile.
Dental health is important and is easy to keep in check with proper oral health habits such as brushing and regular visits to the dentist for cleanings. Having a healthy mouth can improve your quality of life and overall health. Let our Walled Lake dental practice help! Dr. Hechtman has been providing dental care for over 40 years and offers a full range of services including dental treatments and cosmetic dentistry. Our goal at Walled Lake Dentistry is to work with our patients in achieving and maintaining long term dental health and a beautiful smile. Call us today at 248-669-5221 and get started on healthy mouth and smile!
___________________________
1 The History of the Toothbrush by Melissa Bell, 3/28/2018
Link: https://www.thehealthsciencejournal.com/the-history-of-the-toothbrush/
2 How to Select a Toothbrush, www.dentaldentalins.com
Link: https://www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health/select_toothbrush.html
3, 4 Choosing a Toothbrush: The Pros and Cons of Electric and Disposable
Link: https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/choosing-a-toothbrush-the-pros-and-cons-of-electric-and-disposable#1
5 Brushing Your Teeth
Link: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/brushing-your-teeth
6 Types of Toothbrushes – Choose the Right Brush for You, www.oralb.com
Link: https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/why-oral-b/electric-toothbrushes/types-of-toothbrushes/
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What is Xylitol and How Can It Benefit Dental Health? – Walled Lake
Xylitol is one of nature’s more powerful weapons when it comes to dental care and protecting your teeth. While, in short, xylitol is a sugar substitute it’s also one of the best defensives in oral care and the general wellbeing that comes with good dental hygiene.
Xylitol can have positive effects on the wrath of tooth decay as well as tackling an existing cavity you have in your teeth right now.
Xylitol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol used as a sweetener. While sugar free items are often touted as a great way to avoid the bacteria attracting sugar in your mouth, Xylitol is not your average sugar replacement. There’s a lot of difference between Xylitol and other sugar substitutes that make it a far better replacement for sugary items than a lot of the sugar free you see on the market.
Below is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about Xylitol and its benefits as a sugar substitute.
What is Xylitol?
Xylitol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol that is often used as a sugar free sweetener. It’s a crystalline substance that looks and tastes almost identical to sugar and is derived from natural occurring materials in the forest and in agriculture—present in many berries and vegetables and even being naturally present in the human body. One of the biggest benefits of Xylitol is that it is not chemically produced like other common sweeteners.
Benefits
Many studies have been done on Xylitol. It has been found to have a positive effect on bone density. It can also help with weight loss and blood sugar levels, reducing insulin. It also as an obvious benefit on oral health to replace sugar which attracts bacteria to your teeth when you eat sweet items with high sugar content.
Impact on Oral Health
Xylitol does not break down like naturally occurring sugars and does not attract oral bacteria whose acid causes cavities and infections. This can reduce tooth decay and help prevent gum disease. It can neutralize pH levels and prevents further enamel destruction in progress. You can decrease acid producing bacteria by as much as 90%.
Related Questions
What are the risk factors Xylitol?
There are no major side effects of Xylitol and it has been approved for oral care in the US and Canada. While there are no major complications from using it as a sweetener, excessive consumption can lead to abdominal stress and some digestive issues.
How should I use Xylitol?
You should be using around 10 grams of Xylitol a day and aim to use it throughout the day between meals and snacks. Frequency of use is more important than quantity so make sure you’re using it throughout the day.
Talk to your dental professional about Xylitol and how it can be effective for you in stopping tooth decay and promoting general oral health.
Our Walled Lake Dental Office is committed to your smile and that begins with good overall oral and dental health. Dr. Hechtman and his highly trained staff provide the best in general and cosmetic dentistry in our community. We offer the most conservative and innovative options available in dentistry today.
With over 40 years’ experience, our dental clinic can address all your dental health concerns through every life stage including children’s dentistry, smile restoration, dental treatments, and more! Call today for a Free Dental Consultation!
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3 Good Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Put Off Dental Care – Walled Lake MI
3 Good Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Put Off Dental Care Now That Dental Offices Are Open Again
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, dental offices across the nation were ordered to close, except for the treatment of emergency situations. This was done to reduce exposure and to funnel critically needed supplies that are routinely used in dental practices, such as medical grade masks, face shields and gloves, to hospitals treating COVID-19 patients. Now that the restrictions have eased, patients might be concerned about their risks of catching the virus if they go to the dentist.
There are a number of good reasons why patients shouldn’t put off dental care.
Dental practices have a long history and a lot of experience in ensuring safe and sanitary patient care. Dental offices have used personal protective equipment (PPE) for years, including masks, shields, and gloves. Dental instruments are put in a sterilizer or an autoclave after use. An autoclave machine takes all the air and liquid out of the instruments and then sterilizes them with high heat and pressure before drying them completely to minimize the risk of recontamination.1
Because of the increased threat of COVID-19, dental offices are being even more diligent in protecting patient and staff safety. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Dental Association have collaborated on re-opening guidelines for dental offices. These guidelines include social distancing, increased sanitation of shared surfaces, and monitoring of staff and patients for COVID-19 symptoms before and after appointments.2
Dental health is important to your overall health. Keeping your teeth in good shape by practicing good daily oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, and by visiting your dentist for regular check-ups, is a good way to reduce your risk for a number of serious health conditions including cardiovascular (heart) disease, respiratory infections, diabetic complications and even dementia.3
The bacteria from inflammation in the gums and periodontal disease can cause hardening of the arteries, which increases your risk of heart attack or stroke. The bacteria from gingivitis is also thought to be a cause of Alzheimer’s disease and can cause respiratory infections, including pneumonia, as you breath bacteria from infected gums.
Finally, diabetics, who are more susceptible to periodontal disease can see symptoms worsen as inflammation makes it harder to control blood sugar. Since your dental health and overall health are linked, routine dental care helps you safeguard both your oral health and your overall health.4 Patients that are considered “high risk” because of age and pre-existing conditions should also seek routine dental care, in consultation with their dentist, as chronic illnesses often negatively impact dental health.
Small dental issues today can turn into bigger and more costly problems tomorrow. A conversation with your dentist is the best way to determine if you can delay treatment for weeks or months. If you are experiencing bleeding, swelling or trauma to your teeth you should seek immediate dental care.5 If you were diagnosed with a cavity that needed filling prior to the COVID-19 shutdown, that cavity, while generally slow-growing, will most likely get larger and if it becomes too large may require a dental crown to cover and protect the tooth.
Deep decay in a tooth can also result in having to have a root canal performed on the tooth. Not only are crowns and root canals more extensive dental procedures than a simple dental filling, but they also increase the cost of treatment. Patients with other dental conditions, such as gum disease, and those with orthodontics, need to return to their regular appointment schedule to prevent future complications.6
The bottom line is that if you are concerned about your risk of COVID-19 exposure, talk with your dentist or dental office staff. They can provide information on the many steps they are taking to ensure your health and safety. Your dentist can provide the best professional advice on your individual situation and the consequences of delaying treatment.
You are in good hands at our Walled Lake Dental Office. Over 40 years’ experience ensures we have successfully practiced safe and sanitary patient care and continue to do so. We pride ourselves in offering a personalized experience which includes a full range of dental services with the latest technology in modern dentistry.
Our dental services include general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry such as dental veneers, teeth whitening and invisible braces as well as restorative treatments such as dental implants, dental bridges and dentures.
Call our Walled Lake Dental Clinic for a Free Consultation today!
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1 The Challenges of Pandemic Dental Care, The New York Times by Jane E. Brody, 6/8/2020
Link: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/08/well/live/dental-care-dentistry-teeth-coronavirus.html
2, 5 Is It Safe to Visit the Dentist? How Dentist Offices are Reducing COVID-19 Risks by Zee Krstic, 6/8/2020
Link: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/a32801747/is-it-safe-to-go-to-dentist-covid-19/
3 How Poor Dental Care Can Affect Your Overall Health, www.colgate.com, by Willie Pena
Link: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/gum-disease/how-poor-dental-care-can-affect-your-overall-health-0313
4, 6 Your Health First – MDA Dentists Always Practice Infection Control
Link: https://www.smilemichigan.com/Dental-Care-Post-Lockdown-Updates-from-Your-MDA-Dentist
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How Can Dental Apps Help Dentists and Patients? – Walled Lake
How can dental apps help dentists and patients? There seems to be nothing in today’s modern world that an app cannot augment. This includes the dental industry and it’s patients.
There are so many Android and iPhone apps available. It isn’t any wonder that there would be apps for the field of dentistry as well.
The apps available aid a dentist in providing the best service to their patients and potential patients.
These apps also assist the patient in finding the dentist that suits their needs.
How can a dental app help dentists improve their practice?
● Providing patients with an exceptional experience. The mobile app a dentist provides for their patients allows them to access pertinent data in regards to their dental health.
● Allows the patient and new patient to download a dentist’s current app. Once installed, the dentist is able to remain top-of-mind with their patients.
● Propagates an image to patients and new patients that the dental practice is modern. When a dental practice has an app that is engaging to the public it shows the practice is professional with high-end services.
How a Dental App Benefits Patients
A dental app can assist patients by explaining procedures performed by a dentist in a language understandable to the patient. The app offers patients images that are 3D as well as dental counseling and a variety of treatment plans.
Benefits of a Mobile Dental App
A dental app offers the dentist the opportunity to market their dental practice without the expense of advertising. A mobile app allows the dentist to connect with current and potential patients in a simple, efficient manner.
Other Benefits of a Mobile Dental App
When a dentist has an efficient mobile dental app they will be able to augment their patient services. This augmentation improves patient satisfaction and the overall efficiency of how the dental office functions.
Related Questions
Can I talk to a dentist online?
Yes, there are apps such as TeleDentist that allow you to speak with a licensed dentist easily from your home. If you have an emergency that is dental related or just need a consultation–whether at home, work, or in your car you can talk to a dentist and get dental advice with one of these apps.
Is there an app that makes your teeth?
There are apps created to be a pre-consultation tool in regards to how invisible braces can aid you. You just upload a photo of yourself smiling, in less than 60 seconds you get a response showing how invisible braces may help you.
It is proven a mobile dental app is a very efficient tool for both the dentist–in enhancing customer service and satisfaction. In addition, a dental app aids the patient in learning about current practice techniques of a dental office.
Our Dental office in Walled Lake offers the latest technology in modern dentistry, including a comprehensive list of general, restorative and cosmetic dental care services to meet the needs of your entire family including veneers, dental braces, dental implants, teeth whitening and more!
Dr. Steven Hechtman has been providing dental care for over 40 years and stays current with the newest proven techniques through continuing education. Offering a personalized experience, our goal is to work with our patients in achieving and maintaining long term dental health and a beautiful smile. Call today for a Free Consultation!
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All About Root Canals – Walled Lake Dental Office
About 15 million root canal procedures are performed in the United States each year.1 Most are performed by dentists, but about a quarter of these procedures are performed by endodontists. Endodontists are dentists specializing in diagnosing and treating tooth pain and performing root canal treatments.2
Hearing that a root canal is necessary can create a lot of anxiety for patients. This dental anxiety can be minimized by understanding what a root canal is, how it is performed and what you can expect in terms of pain during and after the procedure.
To understand what a root canal is you have to have an understanding of the basic anatomy of a tooth.
Without getting too technical, the outside, hard part of a tooth that we brush every day is the enamel. Below that is a hard material called dentin. Inside the dentin there is soft tissue, called the pulp cavity or pulp. Pulp contains nerves and blood vessels and provides nourishment for your tooth. The pulp cavity also contains the root canal which is the area in which the root of your tooth lives.
Reasons for a root canal
There are a number of reasons that you may have to have a root canal. They include deep decay in a tooth, a large filling, a crack or chip in a tooth, a faulty crown, trauma to the face and even having repeated dental procedures performed on a tooth.3 If decay or trauma to a tooth goes untreated the pulp can become inflamed or infected, causing pain or leading to an abscess. An abscess is a pocket of pus that results from a bacterial infection which can cause moderate to severe pain and, if left untreated, can turn into a serious, life-threatening condition.4
What is the procedure?
A root canal procedure saves your natural tooth. Before your actual treatment begins a dentist or endodontist will use local anesthesia to numb the area so you remain totally comfortable during the procedure. They will take x-rays of your tooth and the surrounding bone if they have not already done so. Then they will put a thin sheet of protective latex over your tooth to keep the area bacteria-free while the dentist is performing the root canal procedure.
What should I expect?
The dentist or endodontist will then use a drill to open the top of your tooth, remove the nerve, clean and disinfect the root area, fill the root canals with a rubber-like material and seal them. A temporary filling will then be put on the tooth to protect it until such time as a permanent filling or crown can be done. If a root canal is necessary, rest assured that removing the nerve of a tooth does not have any effect on how well you can chew. The nerve’s only function is to provide the sensation of hot or cold.
You should feel no pain during any part of this procedure. After the procedure, you may feel some tenderness for a day or two. This sensitivity or tenderness can generally be alleviated with over-the-counter pain medications.
If you are experiencing dental and or oral pain, call your dentist right away. Ignoring symptoms can lead to a worsening situation in your mouth and may affect your overall health.
Our dental office located in Walled Lake MI is a full-service dental clinic ready and able to meet the needs of your dental health and concerns. We offer the latest technology in modern dentistry, including a comprehensive list of general dentistry, restorative dentistry and cosmetic dental care services to meet the needs of your entire family. Dr. Hechtman has been providing dental care for over 40 years to Michigan residents. Call today for a Free Dental Consult!
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The Importance of Knowing Your Teeth – Walled Lake Dental Office
We use our teeth every day. They help us to speak, to bite and chew food and even to smile. Unfortunately, most people don’t know a lot about these amazing tools and can’t even correctly put the official titles on each of their teeth. If you don’t know the difference between a molar and an incisor, understanding your dental professional’s advice or instruction is difficult.
Here is a look at the different types of teeth, their function and what they are called to help you better understand your oral care.
The majority of adults have 32 teeth, including four wisdom teeth. The top set of teeth is referred to as the maxillary and the bottom set of teeth are known as the mandibular.
Wisdom Teeth – Starting with the very back of your mouth you have four wisdom teeth – one on either side of your top row of teeth and one on either side of your bottom row of teeth. These teeth come in during the teen years, usually around 17-21 years of age, and are often removed because they crowd other teeth and can cause misalignment, because they become impacted in the jaw and can cause infections or cysts, or because they partially emerge and trap bacteria.1 Wisdom teeth are actually classified as molars.
Molars – Adjacent to your wisdom teeth are the rest of your molars. Including four wisdom teeth, you have 12 molars in total. On the top set of teeth you have two molars on each side and on the bottom set of teeth you have two molars on each side. After the wisdom teeth are removed, most adults have a total of 8 molars which are broad and relatively flat-surfaced in order to grind food.
Pre-Molars or Bicuspids – Next to your molars you have a total of eight premolars, including two on each side of your top row of teeth and two on each side of your bottom row of teeth. These pre-molars resemble molars in appearance except that they have two indentations, or cusps, in them. This is why the pre-molars can also be referred to as the bicuspids. The role of the premolar is to cut and tear food.2
Canines or Cuspids – Perhaps the most easily recognizable teeth are the canines, which can also be referred to as the cuspids. You have four of these teeth, which come to a point on the end. They are located in the front of your mouth with one each on either side of your top set of teeth and your bottom set of teeth. The canines grab and tear your food.
Incisors – At the very front of your mouth are your eight incisor teeth. You have four incisors in the front on the top and four incisors in the front on the bottom. The job of the incisors is to hold and cut or gnaw food.
Now when your dentist tells you that your mandibular incisor is chipped, it won’t seem like your dentist is talking in a foreign language. You will know that one of your four bottom teeth in front has an issue! Of course, most dental professionals are glad to explain any term you don’t understand.
So, even if you don’t remember the difference between an incisor and a molar, simply ask your dental professional to show you which tooth they have identified as having an issue. Patient education is part of good dental care, so you should never be shy about asking for an explanation if you don’t understand what your dentist or dental professional has told you.
Our Walled Lake Dental Office is committed to providing personal attention that sets us apart from many dentists in our community. Our experienced dental team is skilled and prepared to address all your dental health concerns so that you can achieve and maintain long term dental health.
We are a full-service dental clinic offering the latest technology in modern dentistry including a comprehensive list of general, restorative, and cosmetic dental care services to meet the needs of your entire family. Dr. Hechtman has been providing optimal dental care for over 40 years! Call us today for a Free Dental Consultation!
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1 Wisdom Teeth Removal: When Is It Necessary?
Link: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/wisdom-teeth/expert-answers/wisdom-teeth-removal/faq-20058558
2 How Many Teeth Do Adults Have?
Link: https://www.healthline.com/health/how-many-teeth-do-adults-have#How-many-teeth-do-adults-have?
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How Can You Manage Dental Anxiety? | Dentist Walled Lake MI
If you experience dental anxiety you can take some comfort in knowing that you are not alone. According to a recent survey by market researcher DentaVox, out of the 18,000 people they surveyed around the world 61% said they experience some level of dental anxiety. But sharing this common fear doesn’t mean you have to live with it.
In fact, there are many ways you can reduce and manage dental anxiety.
How Can You Manage Dental Anxiety?
There are proven strategies that can help you reduce your dental anxiety level and create a positive dental experience.
We realize your dental anxiety is a real concern and offer remedies, below, to make your visit more calming and comfortable.
Can Communication Lower Dental Anxiety?
Communication is the key to overcoming any anxiety you are feeling about your dental appointment. You should share any uneasiness you are experiencing with your dentist so your dentist is aware of your concerns and can help establish a more serene experience.
Don’t be afraid to ask your dentist questions. Sometimes just knowing what is going to happen during your dentist visit can alleviate some fear and decrease anxiety. When you are informed and know what to expect chances are you will be less anxious.
What Are Tips To Reduce Anxiety During a Dental Visit?
Your overall good health is linked to taking care of your teeth and gums. So, if you are skipping dental visits because of anxiety it can lead to tooth decay, cavities, disease and infection. There are many calming techniques you can use to relieve your anxiety, including:
Plan Ahead: Schedule a low-stress appointment time for your dental visit so you are more relaxed. Visits during your lunch hour or squeezed between errands can increase anxiety.
Breathe: Focus on slow, deep breathing during dental visits can help reduce stress level
Music: Bring some earbuds to listen to your favorite music.
Diet: Knowing caffeine can increase heart rate, stay away from coffee, soda or any other food/beverage that can contribute to anxiousness before a dental visit.
Signal: Create a hand signal to indicate you need a small break.
How Is Sedation Dentistry an Option for Anxiety Relief?
Sedation dentistry is a preferred method taken by many people that helps them relax and have an anxiety-free dental visit. Sedation dentistry allows you to be awake during your visit, but it will likely help you forget all the details.
The Academy of General Dentistry confirms that sedation dentistry is a safe solution to tackling dental anxiety. Among the top benefits of sedation dentistry is that people often feel like their dental visit only lasts a few minutes.
Dental Sedation comes in many forms. The most common dental sedation is nitrous oxide, which also known as “laughing gas.” Nitrous oxide takes minutes to go into effect and will wear off almost immediately after your procedure is done. Those taking nitrous oxide often say their experience has been very pleasant.
Other methods of dental sedation come in pill form, or “oral sedation,” which can be taken the night before your dental visit or several hours before arriving to your appointment. Oral sedation makes people feel more drowsy than nitrous oxide and its effects can last 2 to 8 hours after your dental visit.
Related Question
Why Do I Have Dental Anxiety?
There are many reasons why people experience dental anxiety. Anxiety can stem from a bad dental experience you had in the past, or from listening to “alarming” stories you have heard. Anxiety can also be triggered by seeing dental equipment, hearing a drill, or derive from the smell of chemicals.
Once you identify what aspect of the dental treatment is causing you anxiety you can begin to address it and work to minimize and overcome these feelings. This will create a relaxed path to lifetime of healthy dental treatment.
Summary
If you experience dental anxiety, knowing you are not alone can help reduce your uneasiness. While understanding this is a common issue can reduce some of your concerns, the great news is there are methods available that can erase your anxiety. From communicating, to planning ahead, to breathing techniques, and more you can conquer your fear of the dentist. Start by talking to your dentist about which strategies are best for you.
Our Walled Lake Dental Practice offers sedation dentistry to help minimize your anxiety and enhance your experience. It is a great alternative to traditional dental care for those with dental anxiety. Dr. Hechtman and his trained staff have extensive training from leading sedation dentistry specialists and are your best choice to gain control of your anxiety.
Offering a full range of dental services including cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry and children’s dentistry we want our patients to have the most positive dental experience possible. Call our Walled Lake Dental Office today for a Free Consultation!
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What to Know About Children Grinding Their Teeth
When your child is sleeping, you may have noticed a strange and somewhat unnerving sound: the gnashing of teeth or the whine as they grind against each other. Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is incredibly common in children. Thy clench their jaws in their sleep and the result is often the strain of tooth on tooth as they involuntarily shift their tightly clenched jaws in the middle of the night.
As many as a 30% of kids have some form of bruxism for a period and most grow out of it.
Some, however, may not. And there are steps you’ll want to take to ensure your child’s teeth or being kept safe and healthy during nightly grinding episodes.
Below is some information about bruxism in children and what you can do to help alleviate it in your own child.
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the clenching of the jaw when one is in the deep sleep phases, or when someone is under some form of stress in their waking hours. While this is primarily a sleep related movement disorder, it can manifest in the day time as well, as many sufferers of bruxism will find themselves clenching their jaw throughout the day, this can be a good indicator of bruxism before any physical signs or damage start to show.
What Causes Bruxism?
There’s a lot of hypothetical answers to what brings on bruxism. In children it can start because top and bottom teeth are somehow misaligned. However, it can also start in response to pain, such an ear infection or bad headache. These two causes often result in the child outgrowing the habit. But stress can cause bruxism as well, such as children suffering forms of chronic anxiety or acute bouts of bruxism in response to day-to-day challenges.
What Are the Effects of Bruxism?
For some, they never know they have bruxism because there are no effects. For others, it can cause chronic headaches or earaches. If grinding persists tooth enamel can be worn down, teeth can chip, they can become sensitive, jaw problems such as temporomandibular joint disease can occur. If children share a room, the grind sound could keep other children up at night as well.
Related Questions
How is bruxism diagnosed?
The sound of grinding teeth is always a surefire bet, however other signs point to bruxism. Unexplained jaw or facial pain, pain while chewing, chronic headaches, and earaches are all signs that point to bruxism.
How is bruxism treated?
Most children outgrow bruxism, however, for those that don’t, relaxing before bedtime with a bath or listening to soothing music can relieve muscle tension. Mouth guards also may be used to protect the teeth from damage
Talk to your child’s dentist about your concerns with potential bruxism and find out what options are available to you.
You and your family are in good hands at our Walled Lake Dental Office. Over 40 years’ experience ensures we have successfully practiced safe and sanitary patient care and continue to do so. We pride ourselves in offering a personalized experience which includes a full range of dental services and children’s dentistry with the latest technology available.
Our dental services include general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry such as dental veneers, teeth whitening and invisible braces as well as restorative treatments such as dental implants, dental bridges and dentures.
Call our Walled Lake Dental Clinic for a Free Consultation today!
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All About Wisdom Teeth | Walled Lake Dentist
Some would argue that the age of wisdom is certainly much older than the teenage or young adult years, but during those years, wisdom teeth come in and so that is why wisdom teeth are so named.1 There are a lucky few humans that don’t have any wisdom teeth that form in their mouths, but most of us will get up to four wisdom teeth, one on either side on the top and one on each side on the bottom.
Wisdom teeth are technically our third set of molars, the teeth whose job it is to grind food down.
Keep reading to learn about wisdom teeth and if you should have them removed by your dentist.
Our early ancestors ate a very different diet from what we eat today and that is why they needed those wisdom teeth in the far back of their mouths adjacent to the molar teeth. The process of cooking, which our early ancestors didn’t do, softens food up so we don’t have to gnaw on tough, raw meats, nuts, roots and vegetables.2
Because we cook food, over time, our jaws diminished in size. That’s why our facial structures differ from those you see in drawings of early cave people. Anthropologists believe that in the future humans will not even have wisdom teeth form.
Timeline of teeth
Humans actually are born with all their teeth tucked higher up in their skull structure. Babies are usually born with none of those teeth visible. Gradually a set of 20 baby teeth break through the gums and eventually fall out around the age of six when a set of 32 permanent teeth emerge. The second set of molars becomes visible around age 12, and the final set, which are wisdom teeth, emerge sometime before a person turns 21.3
The number of wisdom teeth that a person has may vary. Men are more likely to have wisdom teeth than women, and one study found that at least 53 percent of people have at least one wisdom tooth come in.4
Problems caused by wisdom teeth
For many people wisdom teeth don’t erupt but stay hidden under the gums. These teeth are called impacted wisdom teeth. An X-ray is the only way to see these hidden wisdom teeth and to determine if they may be causing problems. Some common problems associated with wisdom teeth, impacted or erupted, include crowding of the teeth which results in crooked or sideways teeth, tooth decay, jaw pain and even cysts or tumors under the gums. Removal is necessary, according to the American Dental Association, if any of these problems are evident.5
When should wisdom teeth be removed?
Getting your wisdom teeth removed at a younger age is best because the roots and bone haven’t fully formed. Your dentist can provide the best advice on when your wisdom teeth should be removed and can monitor for issues if you decide not to remove your wisdom teeth.
Walled Lake Dentist has been providing dental care for over 40 years. We pride ourselves in offering a personalized experience which includes a full range of dental services including cosmetic dentistry and dental treatments such as dental implants and dental veneers. Only the most current and advanced dental technology and techniques are used in our practice.
The New Year is approaching, start it off right with a dental checkup. Being proactive will not only save your teeth, but your overall health as well. Dr. Hechtman and his staff are committed to helping you keep a healthy smile for life. Call today for a Free Dental consultation!
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1 Wisdom Teeth Removal: When Is It Necessary?
Link: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/wisdom-teeth/expert-answers/wisdom-teeth-removal/faq-20058558
2 Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
Link: https://humanorigins.si.edu/education/fun-facts/why-do-we-have-wisdom-teeth
3,4,5 Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth? by Taylor Norris, 10/14/2019
Link: https://www.healthline.com/health/why-do-we-have-wisdom-teeth
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Top 3 Benefits of Dentures | Walled Lake Dentist
Dentures are something that many people get at some point in their lives. Whether it’s due to tooth decay, or periodontal disease, tooth loss is fairly common. Dentures can have some very positive benefits to people who use them.
Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of dentures which may help you decide if they are the right choice to restore your smile.
Improved Self Confidence
This is possibly the top reason to get dentures. Dentures give you back your smile, and help with your appearance, which in turn will give you more confidence. Self-confidence is very important for having a healthy and happy life, things like decayed and missing teeth can really be detrimental to one’s self confidence.
Dentures when used correctly are not obvious, and average people won’t even know you are using them, allowing you to smile and show off those pearly whites without worrying about what people would think of before you had them.
Expanding your diet
Having a good set of dentures will allow you to eat a wider range of foods than you could with missing or decaying teeth. This also boosts your happiness because who doesn’t like good food? This is not only a great benefit health wise, but it also goes back to the self-confidence part as well.
You can go out to restaurants and eat a wider range of foods, all while having that great smile. When first getting dentures, it might take some time to get used to them in terms of eating normal food, but once you get used to the dentures it will become natural. Dentures will give you up to 10 years of great eating, after that point they just simply need to be replaced with a new set.
Normal Speech
Wearing and becoming accustomed to a set of dentures will give you improved speech again. When you first get dentures, you might find speech difficult or your voice might sound different. This is because the sound from speaking reaches your ears through vibrations in the bones of the jaw and skull. Wearing dentures changes the sound and increases it as well. With a bit of time, you will speak normally.
Some good ways to practice getting your speech back to normal can be done by simply doing things like reading a book or newspaper out loud regularly immediately after getting your dentures.
Conclusion
There are many other benefits of dentures besides what we consider our top 3 benefits such as cost-effectiveness, lightweight and natural appearance, and the fact that they can be removed. These three benefits will surely have a positive impact on your life if you consider getting dentures.
Thinking about dentures? Our Walled Lake Dental Office can help. Dr. Hechtman will custom design your dentures for maximum comfort and beauty. With 40+ years of experience, you and your smile are in good hands!
For every mouth and smile, regular dental checkups are a must, especially with dentures. It is important for your dentist to check their fit and quality on a regular basis. A dental checkup also keeps bacteria and infections at bay. Our dental office in Walled Lake, MI offers a personalized experience which includes a full range of dental services, including cosmetic dentistry and dental treatments. Let us help you maintain your smile and your health. Call us today to schedule a checkup!
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The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth | Walled Lake MI Dentist
Have you recently suffered from gum disease or tooth decay? Do you have a genetic condition that affects oral health? Were you recently injured? All of these scenarios may result in tooth loss. While losing a tooth can feel embarrassing and uncomfortable, there are several reasons why replacing missing teeth is important for mental and physical wellness.
So why is it important to replace missing teeth and what are your options?
There are several options for replacing missing teeth and feeling like your best self again and several reasons why tooth replacement is always the best option. Don’t let a missing tooth wreak havoc on your health and happiness.
Tooth Loss 101
Tooth Decay & Gum Disease
Diseases such as anemia, diabetes, and even oral cancer may result in tooth loss. You may also have neglected the dentist (or your toothbrush) and developed tooth decay or gum disease as a result.
Injury
Car accidents, bike accidents, or every day falls often result in missing, broken, or chipped teeth. If you’ve suffered any major incident, hopefully tooth loss is the worst of your injuries.
Genetics
Maybe you were born this way. Ectodermal Dysplasia is a common genetic condition that results in multiple missing teeth. This is typically diagnosed and treated at an early age. While not a disorder, you may simply be born missing premolars, upper lateral incisors, or wisdom teeth.
What Are Your Options?
Implants
Dental implants involve surgically mounting a metal post into your upper or lower jaw. A false tooth is then placed on that metal post to remain in place. If you’re missing one tooth or different teeth in different areas, dental implants are a great option.
While surgeries are obviously more invasive and more expensive, dental implants are long-lasting. Because they mimic a tooth’s root structure, you’re less susceptible to infection and tooth decay.
Fixed Dental Bridge
If you’re searching for a less invasive option or you’re missing several teeth in the same area, you may be a candidate for a fixed dental bridge. A fixed dental bridge bridges the gap between missing teeth with a cement prosthetic. If you’re only missing one tooth, your surrounding teeth are drilled down and the multi-tooth prosthetic is secured in place.
Fixed dental bridges are less expensive than implants and they look like real teeth. However, because the procedure involves drilling away tooth structure from surrounding teeth, the teeth without proper structure are more susceptible to tooth decay which can result in further tooth loss.
Dentures
When someone says dentures, do you think retirement home? Think again. Dentures are a great option for those missing most or all of their teeth. But if you’re only missing a few, you can also try removable partial dentures.
A partial denture is a retainer-like metal and plastic adhesive with one or two false teeth attached. While less expensive than surgical options, partial dentures sometimes cause bone loss around the area due to the absence of a tooth root.
Why Is It Important?
While tooth replacements may feel elective, there’s more than just vanity at stake when it comes to missing teeth. When surrounding teeth have no contact with an opposing arch, you’re susceptible to tooth mobility and fractures, gum disease, and, ultimately, more tooth loss. And of course, missing a tooth or teeth can be detrimental to your self-esteem. You should always feel confident enough to smile.
Overall
Whether it’s a chipped tooth or several lost teeth, it’s time to put history behind you and your best foot forward. Explore tooth replacement options today.
More questions on replacing missing teeth? Dr. Hechtman has 40+ years experience in general and restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, children’s dentistry and more. Contact our Walled Lake Dental Office for a Free Dental Consultation!
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