When Can Implants Be Placed Immediately Following Extractions?

It is important to keep observing your mouth’s health condition. This is so that any irregularities such as loose teeth can be corrected. There are a number of options to consider when it comes to replacing natural fallen teeth with artificial ones. The procedures are different in terms of detail, cost, and dependability. However, dental implants are by far the most trusted method recording the highest number of success stories.

Can implants and extraction be done on the same day?

This is a conclusion that only the doctor can make after assessing your gum and tooth condition. There are patients who have loose teeth, moderately damaged gums, and a jawbone that is still intact. If after extraction, the tooth does not leave a hole that is too big, then the implant procedure can take place. Otherwise, the patient has to come back.

How Long Should I Wait Before Coming Back For An Implant?

This is a case-by-case example because reasons for tooth extraction tend to vary. For example, when a patient’s gum is damaged, it means that they have more of the inner tooth exposed and tooth decay might have interfered with the jawbone. Without a stable jawbone to potentially hold the implant, the patient might have to go back and wait for the bone to heal and stabilize enough to allow for the implant procedures. This could take anywhere between one to three months. Once healed, the patient is then ready for the implants and a hole is made where the tooth was extracted and the titanium post inserted.

These are delicate procedures that should be performed by keen doctors. Cooperating as a patient means that you refrain from trying to hurry a process that your doctor advises against. Visit us today at our clinic and learn more about the options you have regarding extraction and immediate implant placement.

What To Consider While Choosing The Right Toothpaste

When it comes to cleaning your teeth, some kinds of toothpaste are better than others. The specific ingredients in toothpaste enhance enamel strengthening, stain removal, and alleviation of dental sensitivity.

You’ll want to take your time and explore your options before deciding on your preferred toothpaste. Seeking advice from our dentists on the best toothpaste for your specific dental needs is beneficial.

Avoid toothpaste that has been linked to health issues

Whitening toothpaste contains abrasive ingredients designed to remove stains and polish teeth; thus, those with gums and teeth that are extremely sensitive should steer clear of using them. Some people may experience irritation or an increase in their level of dental sensitivity when using these kinds of toothpaste, but overall, it’s safe to use and is effective. If you are self-conscious about the shade of your smile yet have particularly sensitive teeth, you should discuss in-office whitening alternatives with our dentists.

Approval by the ADA

Dental products must bear the seal of approval of the American Dental Association before they are purchased. The ADA Council on Scientific Affairs will have found sufficient evidence to support the product’s safety and efficacy before its approval. If the toothpaste fails to bear the ADA stamp of approval, it lacks sufficient tests to verify its quality.

A decent toothpaste is an important element of your regular oral care practice and flossing. Use a toothbrush paste, gel, or powder to make brushing more effective. The fluoride in the toothpaste will help remove the plaque that builds on your teeth and gums when you eat.

Visit our dental center, and have yourself the best dental care services. Our dedicated team will ultimately recommend the best toothpaste for your prevailing dental condition. Please book an appointment with us now, even via phone. What are you waiting for? We got you covered!

Common Causes for Bleeding Gums-and How to Treat Them

Taking care of gums can prevent so many infections. This begins by brushing and flossing teeth daily at least twice. The dental checkups are also vital for they ensure that they capture any dental issue that might come up before it becomes severe.

Meaning of bleeding gums

When you notice that your gums are bleeding it shows that they are not healthy and are not properly cared for. If you notice any blood coming from your gums see a dentist immediately, this is a sign of gum disease.

Gingivitis is gum disease that is not severe and occurs when the plaque accumulates in between the teeth, the plaque causes tooth decay and affects the gums. Periodontal gum disease is more severe because it affects the gum and causes tooth decay and loss. If you have gum disease the gums bleed when you floss or when you brush your teeth. If you bleed gums and the dentist identifies that you do not have gum disease the dentist will refer you to a specialist for diseases like leukemia, hormonal changes, and scurvy cause bleeding of gums.

Treatments

Inadequate plaque removal from the teeth and the area around the gum line causes bleeding of the gums. Ensure that you brush your teeth often with a soft brush moving in a circular motion so that this can stimulate the gums. The tissue around the teeth will be strengthened as well as the teeth. Flossing will be important too and will remove the plaque that is between the teeth. Use anti-gingivitis toothpaste to brush your teeth. The toothpaste neutralizes plaque and prevents gum disease. The dentist will come up with a treatment plan for you if the gums are bleeding. Visit us today, for treatment on your bleeding gum, or call us for more information.

Canker Sores

Canker sores are small lesions that develop inside the mouth and can cause discomfort and pain. They are not contagious and can appear as one or multiple sores.

The exact cause of canker sores is not fully understood, but some experts believe that it could be linked to problems with the immune system, bacteria, viruses, or trauma to the mouth’s soft tissues. These sores are usually white or gray with a red border and can be painful.

Treatment

Although canker sores often heal on their own within one to two weeks, various treatments are available to relieve the pain. Over-the-counter topical anesthetics and antimicrobial mouthwashes can offer temporary relief, and avoiding hot, spicy, or acidic foods can help prevent further irritation. Occasionally, antibiotics from a dentist and oral bandages can help reduce the risk of secondary infection.

Difference Between Canker and Cold Sore

It is important to note that canker sores are not the same as cold sores, which are contagious and develop on the outside of the mouth. The herpes simplex virus is responsible for causing cold sores, which are often accompanied by blisters.

While canker sores are not contagious, they can be painful, and some people may experience frequent outbreaks. In most cases, canker sores do not require medical treatment, but if they persist or become infected, a dentist or doctor can provide further advice and treatment.

If a person experiences frequent or severe outbreaks of canker sores, they should speak to their doctor to determine the underlying cause and seek appropriate treatment. Always maintain good oral hygiene and avoid hot, spicy, or acidic foods to prevent further irritation.

Contact Us

Please get in touch with us through our email address or phone for additional support or questions. Our team is here to help and provide the best information and resources.

How to Fix an Open Bite

Open bite is a common type of malocclusion that occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not touch. This oral issue occurs due to various factors such as thumb sucking, missing teeth, injury, and genetics. If left untreated, this condition can cause issues such as weakened tooth enamel, difficulty chewing, tooth decay, and speech problems. In this case, it is vital to consult a dentist if you notice that your upper and lower teeth do not come into contact. The professional may suggest a treatment option based on the complexity of your malocclusions. Below are 3 ways to fix an open bite.

Dental Braces

Braces are the most commonly used orthodontic appliances for fixing an open bite. They come in various options, such as ceramic, metal, and lingual. A dentist may use any of these depending on your preferences and needs. Dental braces are easy to maintain and provide good results. They work by moving the teeth to a new position while fixing the open bite issues.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a good treatment option for those seeking an invisible way to correct an open bite. No one would like to draw attention because of orthodontic appliances. That’s why this treatment option is perfect for adults and teenagers. Invisalign is made of thin clear plastics that are not easy to notice. With this, you can get the smile you always wanted without anyone noticing the appliances. This treatment option is only effective if performed by a professional dentist.

Corrective Jaw Surgery

In severe cases of open bite, a dentist may suggest corrective jaw surgery. This treatment option is also necessary if an open bite results from a misaligned jaw. This involves realigning the jaw for proper teeth movement. In most cases, surgery does not change the position of the teeth. Hence, you may need additional orthodontic treatment. Make an appointment with one of our professionals to find out more about open bites and the available treatment options.

The Top 5 Benefits of Having Whiter Teeth

You may feel unsatisfied with your appearance if you have stained or discolored teeth. Smoking, aging, beverages, and infections are some of the causes of discoloration. Teeth whitening is a viable way of brightening up the teeth. It has become a necessary part of the oral hygiene and grooming process. For an amazing and attractive look, professional teeth whitening is recommended over the do-it-yourself whitening kits.

Everyone wants to have brighter and whiter teeth. Here are a few things that may help you consider brightening your teeth.

Enhanced Self Esteem

Discolored teeth may embarrass you in a public place. Bright-looking teeth will make it easier for you to smile, making professional teeth whitening a booster of self-confidence and morale.

Improve Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is essential for healthy teeth and gums. It involves daily brushing and flossing. Keeping your mouth clean and disease-free gives you the best chance for a beautiful smile and long-lasting oral health.

Enhanced Appearance

When your teeth become more yellowish, your smile becomes less attractive. Whiter teeth can make you look younger. As teeth discolor with age, having bright white teeth will give you a more youthful appearance

Improve Mental Health

Smiling frequently reduces the possibility that an individual will develop stress. Low esteem and embarrassment associated with yellowing teeth can cause mental problems. With your teeth white and your confidence restored, you can expect stress to go away.

Whitening is Affordable

Teeth whitening is affordable. It is also minimally invasive and results are noticed after the treatment. You get into a dental office with yellow teeth and come out with brighter and whiter teeth.

For professional teeth whitening and more of its benefits, visit our dental experts. We can offer you chairside whitening which works instantly or give you whitening trays that you can use at home. However, the trays take a little more time to give results.

What Does Dental Bonding Help Treat?

Dental bonding is when a tooth-colored resin is applied to one or more of your teeth to help repair damage or other issues. It can also be used to change the shape of a tooth or close the gaps between teeth. Dental bonding is one of the most common dental procedures performed in our office today and for good reason, but what exactly can dental bonding help treat?

Chips and Cracks

Tooth bonding is commonly used to fix chips and cracks in teeth. As long as the chip or crack is minor and does not extend into the root of your tooth, it can be easily fixed with a tooth bonding procedure. We will first mix a composite resin to match the color of your teeth, and apply the resin to your chip or crack. Next, we will harden the resin with a special light to ensure that it bonds to your tooth and can stand up to chewing and biting.

Gaps and Irregular Surfaces

Tooth bonding procedures can also be used to fix gaps and irregular surfaces, and can even be used to lengthen one or more of your teeth to make your bite look and function better. Just as with chips or cracks, we will match a composite resin to the color of your teeth, apply the resin where needed, and then harden it with a special light. The procedure is usually not lengthy and can help your smile in many ways.

If you are thinking of having a tooth bonding procedure to fix an issue with your smile, it is important to be happy with the current color of your teeth. Some people may prefer to whiten their teeth before having a tooth bonding procedure. Please call our professional team today and let us help you get your beautiful, winning smile back to tip-top shape.

The Connection Between Oral Health and Mental Health

The health of your body and your mind are closely related to one another. Even though one’s oral health and mental health might seem like two completely different things, they do share a relationship, even if it’s not direct. Those who suffer from mental problems or illnesses also tend to experience poor dental health.

Some of the most common mental health problems that can have a potentially negative effect on an individual’s oral health include depression, anxiety, panic attacks, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

So how exactly do mental health issues impact your oral health?

Here are some oral health issues that those battling with mental health problems experience.

Neglect

Those suffering from mental health problems or illnesses such as depression or anxiety tend to avoid dental care so much that their oral hygiene is highly neglected. This often results in serious dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease.

Anxiety

Most people who suffer from anxiety, especially social anxiety, tend to suffer from some form of dental phobia, which leads people to stop visiting their dentist regularly. This can cause many dental problems as infrequent dental visits can have a huge impact on one’s oral health.

Eating Disorders

People who suffer from conditions such as bulimia tend to experience dental erosion due to the acidity in vomit. Moreover, such people also tend to have low levels of calcium which impacts the health of their teeth.

Medication

Certain medications such as pills for depression or anxiety can have some side effects that can affect your oral health. For instance, they can cause dry mouth due to reduced saliva flow.

It is imperative for everyone to realize and acknowledge the connection between mental and oral health. As a carer of someone suffering from any mental health concern, you should motivate them to maintain good dental habits.

If you searching for a dental clinic that understands your concerns and tries to satisfy all your queries, call us at (503)855-0465 or visit us at ComfortCare Dental. Our highly experienced doctors, Kenneth L. Chung, DDS, MPH, Fred A. Bremner, DMD, Periodontics, and Dr. Bermen Wong, DDS can help solve all your dental concerns!

What You Need To Know About Sedation Dentistry

Oral health is an essential component of the well-being of every healthy human, in all age groups it is possible to apply sedation dentistry. Whether for psychological reasons or for a treatment that can be very painful, we have options to ensure your comfort. Depending on the characteristics and needs of our patients, we create the best sedation plan for them. Read on to learn more about this alternative that will provide calm and relief during your dental visit.

What Does Sedation Dentistry Entail?

Sedation dentistry is a process that our professionals use to relax our patients through the use of pharmacology, either before or during a procedure. It is also known as sleep dentistry. Total sedation occurs when our dentists place anesthesia, after ensuring that we comply with the legal guidelines to do so, and our specialized and qualified professionals in anesthesiology will perform this procedure.

Sedation Dentistry Techniques

This type of procedure is safe for all types of patients, from children to adults, since we can adjust the type of sedation to your needs and comorbidities. Our anesthesia dentists have extensive experience in sedation dentistry and do their job with your well-being in mind.

There are several techniques used in sedation dentistry, among which the minimal sedation stands out, where our patient is awake but cannot feel pain, followed by moderate sedation where unconsciousness is slight, our patient can speak but will not remember much of the procedure. In deep sedation, our patient is asleep but can be easily awakened, unlike general anesthesia, where unconsciousness is complete.

Your comfort in your dental treatment is a priority for us, and we will strive to make sure you experience no discomfort during your appointment. To learn more about sedation dentistry and how it can benefit you, please do not hesitate to contact us today.

Why is replacing missing teeth necessary?

Missing teeth are more than simply an aesthetic issue. They can endanger your dental health and harm your livelihood in a variety of ways. Let us look at why it is vital to replace lost teeth:

Restore Your Self-Esteem: Sometimes, missing teeth make you feel ego when you smile. Perhaps missing teeth have had a detrimental impact on your life in other ways as well. If you have missing teeth, it will be much more difficult for you to chew your meal, kiss your significant other, and even talk effectively. Replacing missing teeth can help with all of these concerns.

Prevent opposing teeth from over-erupting: Healthy teeth constantly touch the gums above and below them. When a tooth is gone, the tooth directly above or below it loses contact with the tooth in the adjacent arch with which it is meant to align.

Do you have the time for teeth replacement?

If you believe that dental implants are the best decision for you, you must find time in your calendar to accommodate the procedure. The step-by-step procedure may appear to be lengthy. However, after scheduling a consultation with our dentist, you may devise a personalized treatment plan. This plan will include all of the specifics of having the prosthesis placed in your mouth, as well as a schedule for you to adhere to. If you are ready to get started today, call us now to make an appointment.

Reduce the risk of gum disease: Missing teeth can cause sensitive regions in the mouth that are difficult to clean, floss, and care for. Shifting teeth can also result in tiny, difficult-to-access areas of the mouth that are difficult to floss and clean. Implants provide several merits over other options and are a prominent effective therapy among our patients. After the dental implants have been implanted in your mouth, they are difficult to distinguish from your natural teeth. They do not need the reduction of neighboring teeth, which might be a concern if you choose a bridge alternatively. If you have questions about getting replacement teeth, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Should I Pick Braces or Veneers?

There are many ways in which we can help you improve the appearance of your smile, both for aesthetic and health purposes. The question, however, is which method to use. Here at our office, we offer a variety of restorative and cosmetic treatments so, depending on the current situation of your mouth and the goals you want to achieve, we can pick the one that best suits your case.

Braces Advantages

Braces are flexible metal wires which we place on brackets, small rubber bands that hold the cables in place. Braces are capable of treating problems such as gaps, irregular spaces, and teeth misalignment. Although patients with braces see their desired results in the span of a year, it is still a highly effective and safe orthodontic treatment.

Apart from their functionality, braces are now more customizable than ever, so they can also help with the aesthetics of a patient. It is possible to choose colors for your braces that are different from the traditional silver, as well as ceramic or transparent-looking braces that blend with the teeth.

Veneers Advantages

Dental veneers are a type of thin, tooth-colored porcelain material. These sheets of porcelain are carefully affixed to the front of the natural teeth of a patient. They are a fantastic way to address a variety of physical and cosmetic problems such as gaps, uneven teeth, irregularly shaped teeth, and minor misalignments. They can also hide discoloration caused by medications, root canals, fillings, and even broken or chipped teeth.

In only three visits to our office, veneer patients get the results they want. As they are permanent, you should carefully weigh the benefits of the procedure before deciding to use it. Veneers are resistant to discoloration and you can use them for up to 10 years.

Here at our office, we help you obtain the smile you deserve. Please contact us today to book an appointment with us, so we can determine together whether braces or veneers are the best method for your situation.

How to Combat Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety is a common issue that affects many people. If you’re one of them, this blog post will help you understand why and how to address the problem. For your teeth to stay healthy, it’s important to take care of them by getting regular cleanings and checkups from your dentist. But even if you have an appointment scheduled, dental anxiety can still be overwhelming when sitting in the waiting room or being called back for your procedure. There are a few things you can do before going in to see the dentist that may help alleviate some of those feelings: 

What causes dental anxiety?

Dental anxiety comes about due to a traumatic experience in the past with your dentist or at the clinic where you currently go for cleanings and checkups. Whatever its cause may be, overcoming this fear is possible with the right mindset and preparation.

How to Combat Dental Anxiety?

You can combat dental anxiety by getting informed about the procedures you will undergo beforehand. Knowing what to expect during your next appointment can help put your mind at ease. You may also want to try different coping mechanisms, such as deep breathing exercises or bringing a friend along for moral support before heading in.

Additionally, you can try to relax your body before going in for dental work. One way of doing this is practicing yoga or meditation, which may help reduce stress and anxiety levels through muscle relaxation techniques.

Tips for reducing your risk of developing dental anxiety

You can also reduce your risk of developing dental anxiety by giving yourself time to get comfortable with the idea of going in for a checkup or cleaning. You may even benefit from scheduling multiple appointments that are close together, so you have less time to build up stress about it.

Finally, being aware of why you’re feeling anxious is important when combating fear surrounding dental work. If something doesn’t feel right during an appointment or if there’s some part of the process that makes you uncomfortable, speak up! Your dentist will be able to explain what they’re doing and give you suggestions on how best to alleviate any discomforting feelings before proceeding with further treatment.

The next time you feel anxiety about your dental appointment, come in to visit our practice. We’ll take care of you and make sure that all of your questions are answered before we begin any treatment If there is anything you don’t understand or need clarification on, call us, and we can sort it out!

How Do Your Teeth and Gums Benefit from Raw Produce

If you want your teeth and gums to benefit each time you eat, consider eating fresh fruits and raw vegetables every day because of their high nutritional value and cleansing effect. Eating vegetables can be tasty and good for your teeth and gums.

Eat Your Rainbow for Healthy Teeth and Gums

Raw vegetables contain numerous vitamins and minerals. For instance, leafy greens are rich in calcium, folic acid, and many other vitamins and minerals which benefit your teeth and gums. These nutrients help to build the enamel on your teeth, which will ultimately protect and strengthen your teeth against tooth decay.

Cleanse Your Teeth While You Eat Raw Produce

A natural toothbrush has been invented! Eating carrots helps to clean your teeth. When small carrot chunks are combined with saliva, they act as a natural toothbrush to wash away bacteria and other food debris.

In addition, a natural form of floss has been invented. Celery is probably the closest thing to dental floss you will find in the produce section of the grocery store. The crunchy and fibrous texture of celery cleans your teeth as you eat it.

Lastly, chewing on crunchy raw produce stimulates your salivary glands. The more you chew and crunch, the more saliva you will produce. Once your saliva is moving around in your mouth, it washes away plaque, lowers acidity in your mouth, and cleanses leftover food particles.

Make Your Next Appointment Today

Make an appointment today for your next professional cleaning and dental exam. We will work with you, and any diet you are on, to make sure you are being proactive about your oral health. Feel free to ask us any questions; we want to help you eat right and take care of your body.

Neglecting Your Oral Care at Work Can Do More Than Put Off Your Co-Workers

You cannot afford to neglect your oral care, as it can lead to more problems than you can suspect. The following information explains why taking care of your teeth and gums is essential to you and for your professional and personal interactions.

Why You Need to Practice Brushing and Flossing Daily

When you do not brush your teeth and floss regularly, you can cause more than communication problems with co-workers. Bad breath, an unattractive smile, and the lack of self-confidence that follows can also make it hard for you to communicate with customers or feel good mentally or physically. Taking care of your teeth and gums can make some real-life changes, so brushing and flossing are important to your total well-being.

Getting into a More Positive Frame of Mind

When your teeth look good, you also feel good because everyone responds to you differently. While it may sound shallow, it is hard for people to feel warm toward a co-worker or employee who does not exhibit healthy gums and teeth. How you take care of your teeth can also lead to opinions about your work. Someone who is conscientious about dental care obviously will also pay greater attention to what they do at work in most people’s minds. When this happens, you can accomplish more on the job and in your daily life.

It Only Takes 6 Minutes a Day

To brush your teeth two times a day at 2 minutes per session, and floss for 2 minutes one time, equals a total time of 6 minutes. What other things do you do in that time that are far more destructive? For instance, it takes more time to let a hard candy dissolve in your mouth or even eat a small bag of chips. Why not make better use of your time by brushing and flossing throughout the day?

It also helps to have regular dental checkups and cleanings. Begin today by contacting us and scheduling an appointment for a professional cleaning and exam. We want to help you make the most of your smile. Give us a call and schedule a time for a consultation.

Are Dental X-Rays Safe for Kids?

Dental X-rays are an essential tool that dentists use to location, identify, and diagnose issues with your child’s teeth. These x-rays deliver a clear picture of a child’s teeth, bones, and other supporting tissues present in the mouth.

Due to the concern of radiation exposure, many parents are concerned with the safety of x-rays for their kids. However, you need to know that dental x-rays are completely safe, and also necessary if you want your child to receive the appropriate dental treatment.

Why Must a Child Get a Dental X-Ray?

Here are a few reasons that your child might require to a get a dental x-ray:

• To detect problems concerned with the spacing of your child’s jaw

• To view any bone-related tooth problems or any issues with the roots of a tooth

• To map out your child’s mouth in case of a tooth extraction or other complex dental procedures

When Should a Child Get Their First Dental X-Ray?

Most kids receive their first dental x-rays when they[[[char:39]]]re almost 6 years old, or once their adult teeth begin to set in. These dental x-rays are taken as a part of regular dental cleanings and checkups to ensure that your child’s teeth are growing in correctly.

Is Radiation Exposure a Concerning Factor When Getting Dental X-Rays?

The amount of radiation exposure that your child receives during a dental x-ray is minimal. Most dental offices typically provide a lead apron for your child to wear during the x-ray to protect their body from radiation. All in all, you don’t need to be concerned about radiation exposure during a dental x-ray.

Regular checkups, dental cleanings, and exams are the ideal way to ensure that your child grows up with healthy and beautiful teeth. To schedule an appointment for yourself or your child, call us today!

Is a Dental Pit Stain Something to Worry About?

A dental pit stain often is mistaken for a cavity. While we should watch the stained pit, it is not something that needs treatment.

How a Dental Pit Stain Develops

The surface of your teeth, where your bite, may display tiny holes. However, they are nothing serious. They are just part of your tooth[[[char:39]]]s anatomy. However, if they capture stains, your teeth will become discolored. While these minor tooth stains may affect a tooth[[[char:39]]]s appearance, they are not something that represents a serious dental problem.

Preventing Stains

To prevent dental pit stains, it helps to consume foods that do not cause stains, such as dairy foods, leafy green vegetables, fruits, such as pears and apples, or more alkaline versus acidic foods in nature. Acidic foods, such as tomatoes or citrus, can erode the enamel, promoting surface stains and discoloration.

How We Can Treat Dental Pit Stains

If you feel self-conscious about dental pit stains, we can help you prevent them and remove them. You need to speak to us about what whitening agents to use to get rid of the stains. By getting our recommendations, you can avoid using a product that really does not work. Usually, if you opt for a professional dental whitening treatment, you can get rid of these types of stubborn stains. If stains appear on fillings, however, the fillings will need to be replaced. You cannot whiten composite fillings that display surface stains.

If you have a problem with dental pit stains, we are here to help. Call us today for an appointment. Find out how a professional whitening treatment can help you with any problems with dental stains or discolored teeth. We will first need to perform a professional cleaning before we schedule a time for an in-office whitening. Therefore, you can count on us to help you eliminate even the most stubborn tooth stains.