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Dentistry FAQ |
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Orthodontics FAQ | Dentistry FAQ | Links
An Elegant Smile Dentistry encourages good dental hygiene and care for all members of your family and we are happy to provide information at any time. You may have questions concerning various areas of dental care for yourself or other family members, from babies to senior adults.
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Brushing, Flossing, and Cleaning |
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A regular daily regimen of brushing and flossing are the most important steps to preventing cavities and gum disease while maintaining a healthy mouth and a beautiful smile. Children and adults should brush and floss after each meal and a minimum of twice daily for at least two minutes each time. Your dentist or dental hygienist would be happy to demonstrate correct brushing and flossing techniques. We recommend using a toothbrush with soft bristles that have proven to be effective yet kinder to your teeth and gums. Flossing is necessary to clean between teeth where the brush doesn't reach. Mouth rinses can be a helpful addition to your routine but physical removal of soft plaque is needed to prevent disease.
An Elegant Smile Dentistry offers ultrasonic technology for gently removing deposits such as tartar and stain. This method is also considered more effective than hand scaling with instruments in serious cases of gum disease. The technology uses a wand with a scaling tip that produces a soft vibration. In many cases, the ultrasonic is cooled by a gentle water spray which is easily controlled by suction devices and helps flush out the deposits from around the gums. Your dentist or dental hygienist will assist you in learning more about this innovative technology.
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Choosing a Toothpaste |
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Select a toothpaste that you like but make sure it has fluoride in it, as this is the necessary component to aid in keeping teeth strong and more resistant to decay.
Over the last five years, toothpaste manufacturers have flooded the market with specialty toothpastes, such as tartar control, gum care, baking soda, whitening, smokers, and sensitive teeth varieties. Tartar control toothpastes do not reduce tartar that has already formed below the gum line, but do seem to ward off accumulation of additional tartar. Toothpastes designed for smokers are not recommended as they can cause recession of the gums and abrasion of the tooth structure. Sensitive toothpastes work for many people when used on a regular basis, so try different brands until you find one that provides relief from this common sensation. Whitening toothpastes are more abrasive than others and should not be used each time you brush. Mixed reviews are out on the many brands of whitening toothpastes with varying degrees of success. If whitening your teeth is a primary concern, consult your dentist to discuss options.
Also, many brands of toothpaste are available in either pastes or gels, both of which are safe, effective cleaners. Whatever type or brand of toothpaste you choose, proper technique for brushing and flossing must be followed consistently. Also, your toothpaste should bear the American Dental Association seal of approval on the container, which means that adequate evidence for safety and efficacy have been demonstrated in controlled, clinical trials. Parents should monitor their small child's brushing and instruct them not to swallow toothpaste to avoid ingesting large quantities of fluoride.
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Electric vs. Manual Tooth Brushes |
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Electric toothbrushes are generally more efficient and less irritating to the gums. These brushes are especially beneficial for patients with special problems such as significant plaque build-up, excessive bleeding, periodontal disease, or limited manual dexterity. If using a manual toothbrush, be sure to vibrate gently and do not scrub your teeth.
We recommend and sell the following electric toothbrushes
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Cavities and Tooth Decay |
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Cavities normally occur on the biting surfaces of the teeth and between teeth. Therefore, it is very important to brush frequently throughout the day to remove food debris from the teeth. Flossing helps remove food debris from hard to reach places between the teeth and should be accomplished at least once a day. Sugar is the worst culprit because it is easily digested by bacteria that naturally live in your mouth. Any food left on the tooth surface long enough will eventually become a foundation for bacteria and turns into an acid, which can eat away at the tooth enamel. Good oral hygiene is essential to the prevention of cavities.
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Plaque and What to do About It |
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Food debris left in the mouth over time turns to plaque, which is what causes tooth decay. While in its soft state, a person can clean it off with a toothbrush and floss. If it is left for a long time, the plaque hardens, calcifies, and becomes calculus that is very damaging to the teeth as well as the gums and jaw bones. Calculus (tartar) can only be removed by a dental professional and requires special instruments. Arm yourself against plaque with regular brushing and flossing.
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Dental Sealants |
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Dental sealants are an important preventative measure for the permanent molars just after they erupt in the mouth around age six or seven. A dental sealant is a film painted on the surface of these teeth to prevent food from sticking in the natural pits and grooves of the teeth.
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Fluoride Treatments |
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Fluoride treatments are usually administered topically once a year to aid in maintaining the strength of teeth. For most children, fluorides can be applied beginning at age three but consult your dentist as to any factors that may influence the treatment regimen such as history, age, tooth decay, and environmental fluoride exposure. On the basis of available research, stannous fluoride appears to be the most effective type from a bacteriostatic standpoint, even though the taste can be a bit bitter. We've found that multiple fluoride therapies, such as supplementing the topical treatments with water fluoridation or dietary supplement, produce superior results. Talk to your dentist regarding the best approach for your family members. Also, studies have shown that the growing incidence of adult tooth decay is reduced by systemic and topical fluoride treatments.
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Cosmetic Dentistry |
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Much cosmetic dentistry is available now including all porcelain crowns, white fillings, and implants to enhance your smile. Bleaching is a successful process whereby the patient wears a custom fitted tray filled with a bleaching gel for about two hours per day for a period of two to three weeks. Bonding or porcelain veneers work wonders for some discolorations not changed by bleaching, or if the patient would also like to close spaces. Bonding is done by cementing tooth-colored filling material to the enamel or outer coating of the tooth. While bonding materials have improved over the years and provide reasonably good results, they are not as long lasting and sometimes not as aesthetically pleasing as porcelain veneers. These restorations need little or no tooth structure removal for attachment and are quite good looking.
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Gum Disease and Prevention |
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Gum disease is usually caused by a lack of flossing and sometimes can be hereditary. The plaque gets between the gums and teeth, calcifies, and then starts destroying surrounding teeth and bone. Then teeth can become mobile and often fall out. The patient can observe several signs of gum disease and should contact their dentist or periodontist if noticing any of the following symptoms:
. Red, swollen, or tender gums
. Bleeding gums during tooth brushing
. Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
. Persistent bad breath
. Pus between the teeth and gums
. Loose or separating teeth
. A change in the way your teeth fit when biting
. A change in the fit of partial dentures
Good oral hygiene, flossing at least once daily, and regular dental check-ups are the best preventative measures.
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Dental Coverage and Benefits |
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An Elegant Smile Dentistry is dedicated to providing the highest quality care possible for every patient, regardless of insurance coverage. Dental insurance can be complex, with many types of insurance plans and varying degrees of coverage. Normally, dental insurance is provided through a contract between your employer and a dental insurance company. Several dental insurance plans will provide for full or nearly full coverage on regular cleanings and check-ups. However, many plans will only cover half or a portion of cavity repair or restorative procedures, such as crowns or bridges. Cosmetic procedures are quite often not covered by dental insurance. Please read your policy booklet or consult your employee benefits representative to learn more about specific levels of coverage.
Making great dental care affordable is a prime concern for An Elegant Smile Dentistry. We know what can happen when proper dental care is neglected or delayed, and An Elegant Smile Dentistry does not want you to avoid the dentist if cost is a problem.
Most insurance plans are accepted and filed by An Elegant Smile Dentistry. We accept nearly all insurance plans and process the claims for you. In most cases, all we'll need is your signature. Please check with your insurance plan regarding coverage levels for various treatments and procedures and any deductibles or co-payments that may be the personal responsibility of the patient.
We accept the insurances listed below as many others. Please call one of our offices for verification of acceptance:
Cigna, Delta, Metlife, Pacificare, EDS, United Concordia, AHCCCS, Protective, Dental Health Alliance, Blue Cross/Blue Shield of AZ, Ameritas, and many more!!
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TMJ Diagnosis and Treatment |
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The temporomandibular joint or TMJ is the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. Sore jaw muscles, jaw popping, a warm sensation in the ears, and even headaches may be related to clenching or grinding teeth and can be alleviated by wearing a simple plastic appliance. If you suspect TMJ symptoms, please consult your dentist for a more thorough discussion of the condition and practical remedies.
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Dentures and Implants |
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The latest technique for replacing missing teeth is dental implants, but patients must be carefully screened for potential placement of implants because the density, level, and quality of the bone plays a large role in the success of the implants. After placement, the implants integrate with the bone for four to six months. Afterwards, they are uncovered and replacement teeth, either, single or a full denture, can be fabricated to be attached to the implants.
Historically, the more traditional methods include bridges and partial or complete dentures. Bridges involve using the remaining teeth on either side of a space as anchors and are cemented in place. When too many spaces are prevalent, removable partial dentures are used to fill the gaps. Complete dentures are used if a patient is missing all of their teeth in one or both arches. The advantages of having implants in conjunction with the dentures include added stability and comfort. Unfortunately, the cost of implants may be considered a drawback and normally range from $900 to $1500 per implant.
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Dentures and How to Care for Them |
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Brush dentures lightly with a soft nylon toothbrush or recommended denture brush. Prevent possible breakage by brushing dentures over a soft surface such as towel or sink filled with water. Put your dentures in a cleanser overnight or for at least thirty minutes a day. After soaking, thoroughly remove all cleanser by lightly brushing under cold running water. Do NOT soak partial dentures in bleach. Don't forget to massage your gums daily with a soft toothbrush for one minute once daily or as directed. Alert your dentist immediately if you see or feel any sore red areas, burning sensations, white patches, or growths. Make sure to visit your dentist for regularly scheduled appointments and to discuss the best use and care habits for your dentures.
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Senior Dental Care |
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Various medications can cause problems in the oral cavity, such as dry mouth, which can lead to tooth decay. Please tell the dentist about all medications you are taking and any related health issues in order to treat your individual situation properly. Some medications can interact with each other or interfere with treatment so it's important to advise your dentist as to all medications you might be taking on a temporary or regular basis.
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Infant and Toddler Dental Care |
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Good oral hygiene including proper brushing and flossing is critically important for baby teeth in small children. Resist the temptation to put a child to bed with a bottle of milk or juice as this practice can lead to severe tooth decay. Fluoride is an important weapon against tooth decay and parents should consult their dentist regarding the best treatment. A child's first dental appointment with a pedodontist (pediatric dentist) should occur one year after birth or six months after the first tooth erupts. An Elegant Smile Dentistry wants to establish good dental habits in young children and prevent the child from feeling scared or threatened. So, normally, the first visit is just an exam or cleaning. Please consult your dentist regarding normal patterns for teeth eruption or any other questions you might have regarding setting the stage for a lifetime of beautiful smiles.
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Traumatic Tooth Injury |
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In our clinical experience, we've found that about 3/4 of tooth injuries occur in children under 15 years of age. As might be expected, boys between the ages of 7-10 show a higher incidence of severe tooth injury due to a rougher nature and participation in activities. Our experience shows that the upper jaw is likely to be injured more often in baby teeth of young children. In adolescents and adults, teeth are most frequently chipped, loosened, or broken during automobile or bicycle accidents, sports or play, and assaults. If the tooth can be found, the best way to store the tooth until your dentist can replace it is by putting it in milk. Call your dentist immediately. The best outcome occurs when your dentist can replant the tooth in the socket within 30 minutes after the tooth has been knocked out. Time is extremely important!
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Endodontics and Root Canal Therapy |
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Endodontic treatment or root canal therapy is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes, such as deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or a chip in the tooth. In addition, a blow to a tooth may leave no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess. Signs of pulp damage include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling and tenderness of nearby gums. Sometimes there are no symptoms.
In order to treat the tooth your dentist or an endodontist removes the inflamed or infected pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the inside of the tooth, and then fills and seals the space. Afterwards, you'll return to your dentist who will place a crown or other restoration on the tooth to protect and restore it to it's full function.
In some cases, a tooth that has received endodontic treatment fails to heal or the pain continues. A retreatment may be recommended in order to save the tooth. On rare occasion, a more complex endodontic surgery may be necessary to save the tooth. An Elegant Smile Dentistry will advise you as to appropriate options given your individual situation and will answer any questions.
More information on root canal therapy is provided here by Valley Endodontic Specialty Group.
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Brushing, flossing, and cleaning
