What are the Different Types of Sedation?

If you are anxious or downright frightened about visiting your dentist, you are not alone! Every year millions of Canadians skip important dental appointments due to their fear or anxiety associated with dental procedures. However, with the proper and judicious use of sedation dentistry procedures, it is possible to have a pleasant experience at your dentist’s office.

At DSV Dental, we use state-of-the-art sedation dentistry procedures to alleviate your fears and make your dental appointment as anxiety-free as possible. Dr. Sohela Vaid has years of experience practicing sedation dentistry in Whitby, ON, and helping her patients overcome the fear and anxiety associated with dental procedures.

Type of Sedation Available in Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry aims to relieve pain, stress, and anxiety through sedation. We offer the following types of sedation dentistry procedures:

Laughing Gas Sedation

Laughing gas is a combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen. It is one of the most common sedation agents used during dental procedures in adults and children. Rather than making you unconscious, laughing gas effectively blocks pain perception and helps you relax and calm down during dental procedures. It is one of the safest sedation techniques, as you are aware and awake during your course.

Dr. Sohela Vaid recommends laughing gas if you have a dental phobia, as it can help you relax. Laughing gas is easy to administer as well. A mask is placed over your nose and ask you to take deep breaths. It takes only a few moments for the laughing gas to start working, and soon, you will start feeling more relaxed and comfortable.

Another huge advantage of laughing gas is that it is relatively short-acting than other forms of dental sedation. You can return to work after your appointment without any residual sedative effects.

Side Effects Of Laughing Gas

Although laughing gas is safe for people of all ages, there are some side effects you should be aware of-

Nausea

Hallucinations

Headache

A hazy, unclear, weak memory of the procedure

When is Laughing Gas Used?

At DSV Dental, we use laughing gas alone or in combination with other sedating agents to sedate patients for several dental procedures, including-

Teeth cleanings

Teeth extractions

Root canal treatment

Dental fillings

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation involves using Triazolam pills to sedate a patient before a dental procedure. Since Triazolam makes you dizzy and less aware of your environment, you will need someone to drive you to and from the dental office.

The effect of oral sedation can last a long time, and our dentist will monitor you closely throughout the procedure. Oral sedation has several advantages over other sedating agents, including that it is a great alternative to IV sedation in patients with severe needle fear. Triazolam used to cause sedation is safe and causes little to no side effects. Patients don’t need assistance with breathing.

Side Effects Of Oral Sedation

Oral sedation with Triazolam is safe. You should be aware of the potential side effects, which include-

It might take some time for the pill to work.

The effects of sedation can last long after the dental procedure is complete.

It is not an option if you are allergic to Triazolam.

When is Oral Sedation Used?

Oral sedation is used to carry out several dental procedures, from teeth extractions and root canal treatments to dental fillings. However, as the effects of oral sedation are long-lasting, you will need assistance to commute to the dental office and home after the procedure. You might also need to take time off from work till the effect wears off.

IV Sedation

IV sedation involves using an IV drip directly into the patient’s bloodstream. It is one of the most effective sedation techniques, as the patients will enter a “twilight zone” and will have no memory of the dental procedure.

Side Effects of IV Sedation

While IV sedation is safe when done under expert supervision, there are a few side effects associated with it-

Nausea and vomiting

Headaches

Drowsiness even after the dental procedure

Bruising at the injection site

IV sedation is not recommended in pregnant women and children.

When is IV Sedation Used?

IV sedation is the best option for patients with severe dental anxiety or undergoing lengthy procedures like bone grafting, dental implant surgery, or TMJ surgery.

Although general anesthesia is sometimes used to carry out dental procedures, we don’t use it at DSV Dental.

What Are the Advantages Of Sedation Dentistry?

Whatever the method, sedation dentistry offers a significant advantage to patients with dental anxiety and phobias. It helps you remain calm and relaxed throughout the procedure. At DSV Dental, your safety is our priority, and we exercise precaution while performing sedation dentistry to minimize the side effects and make you feel as comfortable as possible.

As Dr. Sohela Vaid can work much faster when the patient is sedated, you might need fewer appointments to get the desired result for some dental procedures.

Most importantly, sedation dentistry can help people with severe dental anxiety to feel comfortable so they don’t skip their appointments and get the care they need at the right time.

DSV Dental offers several options for sedation dentistry in Whitby, ON. Call us today to find out which version of sedation would be best for you.

What Dental Hygienists Do When Root Planing and Scaling

  1. What is the Role of Dental Hygienists in Periodontal Health? How Can Professional Deep Cleaning Improve Periodontal Health? 
  2. The Truth Behind Root Planing and Scaling for Periodontal Disease 

Who Is a Dental Hygienist?

A dental hygienist is a professional in dentistry, skilled and trained to keep mouths clean. The role of this dental expert is evident from the name ‘hygienist’. They take care of your oral hygiene during routine dental visits.

What Is Root Planing and Scaling?

They are dental procedures for deep cleaning. Deep cleaning entails thoroughly cleaning the mouth, usually as part of treatment for periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection affecting the gums. It gradually impacts jaw and teeth health. It is a progressive condition that can cause permanent complications in your oral cavity. One of the ways to treat the disease is through deep cleaning.

Difference Between Scaling and Root Planing

Usually, scaling and root planing in Whitby, ON, are done together. However, they are a bit different from each other. Scaling involves scraping off plaque from teeth surfaces. The dental hygienist will target plaque and tartar from the hard-to-reach parts of your oral cavity, including below the gum line. The process will include chipping and rinsing the hardened tartar from your teeth.

Root planing, on the other hand, entails smoothing tooth roots below the gum line. The dentist must push the gums from your teeth to access the tooth roots properly. Ideally, when plaque and tartar have invaded your teeth, they push back the gums, exposing the tooth roots. As long as your teeth have plaque and tartar, the gums will not attach properly. Therefore, the dental hygienist must smooth your tooth roots after periodontal scaling, ensuring that the surface is healthy for gums to reattach. Sometimes, the dental expert may resolve to use an antibiotic on your tooth roots below the gum line before completing the root planing procedure.

Do You Always Need Root Planing and Scaling When You Have Gum Disease?

Not all patients with gum disease require deep cleaning. However, all people need routine dental cleanings to keep their mouths clean. These cleanings remove plaque from between teeth and deep fissures of the chewing surfaces. However, deep cleaning is a treatment we recommend for patients with advanced gum disease.

At DSV Dental Brooklin Village, there are different stages of infection for the gums. The initial stage of infection is called gingivitis, which has mild to moderate effects on dental health. However, if the disease is not treated early, it progresses to a severe stage called periodontitis. This level of infection merits drastic treatments to combat the severe complications. Therefore, root planing and scaling are ideal for patients with periodontitis.

How to Know You Need Root Planing and Scaling

Root planing and scaling are ideal treatments for patients with a high risk of gum disease. Studies show that the older you get, the higher your risk of getting gum disease. In fact, about 3 in 4 adults over 60 years in America suffer from periodontal diseases. Some of the risk factors for gum disease are:

  1. Genetics and family history
  2. Poor oral hygiene
  3. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
  4. Diabetes
  5. High blood pressure
  6. Arthritis
  7. Hormonal imbalance – usually due to pregnancy or taking birth control pills

If you have a high risk of getting gum disease, determine to visit your dentist frequently for exams. Besides, consider the following signs as pointers to your need for periodontal treatments like root planing and scaling:

  1. Frequently bleeding gums – when you eat hard foods or brush your teeth.
  2. Swollen, reddened, and gums that are tender to touch.
  3. Exposed tooth roots – giving an illusion of big teeth.
  4. Weakened shaky teeth – they may even start shifting positions.
  5. Gingival embrasures – are small black triangles on the base of your teeth near the gum line. They occur when the gums start to recede and thin out, exposing more tooth structure.

How Long Will the Treatment Take?

Technically, root planing and scaling can happen during the same dental visit. However, you will require a few more sessions to attend to all your teeth. It depends on the severity of the infection throughout your oral cavity.

Want to schedule an appointment at our dental office in Whitby, ON? Contact DSV Dental Now!

How Do You Handle a Dental Emergency?

Any dental emergency is a frightening experience, and in most cases, it’s important to get dental attention immediately. In most cases, however, one can do things to reduce the immediate discomfort and minimize the risk of complications.

We have listed some dental emergencies and steps you can take to handle them before seeing a dentist.

How Do You Handle a Dental Emergency?

This’s how you handle these dental emergencies:

1. Dental Trauma

This refers to an injury to your teeth and surrounding area, including the tongue, soft tissues of the lips, and inner cheeks. This kind of injury it’s a common dental emergency that often results in tooth damage or loss.

Whether an injury is caused by a sports or vehicle accident, a fall, or any other blow to your head or mouth, it happens without warning and at the most inconvenient times. Until you get to an emergency dentist, here’s what you need to do to improve the outcome of your situation:

Fractured Cracked or Chipped Tooth

You will likely feel it if you’re tooth fractures or cracks resulting from an injury or from biting into a hard food item. This will happen by the tooth shooting pain when chewing to a sudden or intense ache caused by cold or hot temperatures. If your pain comes and goes, you will likely suffer tooth damage from exposure to the pulp.

You should try taking over-the-counter pain medication and gently biting down on a moist cloth or gauze. This helps relieve the symptoms until you can get it seen by your dentist. The sooner you get your treatment, the better your outcome. Fracture or cracked teeth are often repaired with a crown or filling and function perfectly for many years afterward.

Dislodged or Knocked Out Teeth

Proper emergency action can save your teeth if you get knocked out. For example, if the trauma to your mouth results in a tooth falling out of the mouth, you can save that tooth by doing the following:

  • Rescue your tooth immediately, pick it up by the crown, and avoid touching the roots with your fingers.
  • Rinse the knocked-out tooth carefully with clean and fresh water to remove any bacteria and dirt it may have picked from the ground. Avoid using soap or any other chemicals that can kill the roots.
  • Ensure you put the tool in its socket if you can by holding it by the crown and inserting the root carefully into the socket. Hold the tooth gently in place and bite down slowly until it’s back in its correct position. The sooner you put it in its correct position, the more likely you will save the root.
  • If you cannot pick the tooth in its sockets until you get to your dentist and show you put it in your mouth next to your cheek or carried in a container with milk to keep it moist. Avoid using water because the tooth root cells can’t handle the water for more than a few seconds at a time.

Try to get to your dentist at DSV Dental Brooklin Village within 30 minutes of your injury. This helps maximize your chances of saving the tooth.

2. Loss of Crown, Filling, or Appliance

If a feeling or a crown falls out or you break a denture or other appliance, it might not look like a big problem at first. However, you should get dental attention as soon as possible because any of these problems can cause changes in your bite. This affects your overall dental health in the long term.

In addition, all the appliances can result in your mouth being inadequately supported, which causes your other teeth to loosen and shift.

A missing dental filling also exposes the roots to bacteria resulting in an abscess or an infection. If possible, you should rescue your broken appliance or crown and bring it with you to your emergency dentistry in Whitby, ON. Your dentist will decide whether to refit any part of your broken appliance or crown or use it to model a new appliance.

3. Tooth Abscess

An Abscess develops, and one gets bacteria into a tooth’s pulp through a crack or chip in the enamel or a dental cavity. The bacteria causes an infection and inflammation, which results in a swollen gum area and pain when one is chewing. You should try taking over-the-counter pain medicine before getting to your emergency dentist.

What Should You Not Do Before Sedation?

Just the thought of visiting our dentist can send some cold chills down the spines of certain people. Dental anxiety or phobia is nothing new. In fact, it is quite common and has led to countless people shunning receiving much-needed dental care.

That’s why we offer sedation dentistry in Whitby, ON, to help our patients with dental anxiety to be calm enough to receive dental care.

On the other hand, you may have a dental issue that needs invasive treatment, so some level of sedation will be required to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure.

Whether you are battling dental anxiety, have a sensitive gag reflex, or need to undergo invasive dental treatment, you will need to prepare for your appointment.

Here are some things you shouldn’t do before you undergo sedation.

Ignore Taking Plenty of Fluids the Day Before

Being hydrated is vital for life. Water keeps the joints lubricated, regulates body temperature, delivers nutrients to the cells, prevents infections, ensures your organs function well, and so on.

That’s why you must stay hydrated. But you will need to take at least eight glasses or more if you lead an active lifestyle before the dental appointment. You must take fluids the day before because you will not be allowed to take any fluids the day of your sedation. So, you will do yourself a huge favor when you take fluids the day before.

Eating Prior to the Appointment

The number one rule when you are about to undergo sedation is that you shouldn’t eat anything at least six to 12 hours prior to your procedure. So, if your appointment is at midday, you shouldn’t eat anything from the stroke of midnight.

The reason you shouldn’t eat anything prior to sedation is that it is highly likely that you might experience nausea and even vomit after the sedative kicks in.

The only exception is if you need to take medication, you can wash it down with a sip of water.

Drive Yourself After Sedation

If you are coming for a dental appointment and sedation is involved, always know that you will not be fit to drive after the procedure. If you drive to our office, you will need someone else to drive you home.

The problem is that most sedatives take time before they leave your system. You can experience some after-effects 12 or even 24 hours after the procedure. Therefore, your judgment will be a bit clouded; your coordination may be a bit skewed. So, to avoid unnecessary accidents or incidents, you should let someone take you home.

The only exception to this rule is when you undergo inhalation sedation. Laughing gas is mild, and its effects will wear off immediately after removing the mask.

Wear Snug or Uncomfortable Clothes

Always bear in mind that sedation will impair your judgment or even render you semi-conscious or unconscious, depending on the level of sedation. Therefore, you might drift in and out of sleep. At times, you might even sleep. So, wearing uncomfortable or snug clothes might make the process unpleasant.

Also, if you wear high heels, you might have difficulty navigating since you might feel drowsy. So, you should try to be as comfortable as possible to avoid unnecessary stress.

Have an Activity-Packed Day

Before your dental appointment, you need to clear the rest of your afternoon. Don’t have an activity-filled day. Make no serious plans for the rest of the afternoon after your appointment. Even though you think the sedation effects have worn off, you shouldn’t try to operate heavy machinery or do anything that needs much thinking.

Instead, take the afternoon off, watch a movie, go out for ice cream, and spend time with family and friends. Don’t drive, work or do anything strenuous; things might not go well with you.

We Are Here For You

The above list can act as a guideline to help you determine your plans to ensure that you have a stress-free dental appointment. In any case, we will be with you every step of the way. Consult with our painless dentists at DSV Dental Brooklin Village if you have any questions.

How Long Does a Root Canal Stay Without a Dental Crown?

A root canal provides numerous advantages that can enhance the dental health and overall quality of life. The procedure can help you ease your discomfort and save the original tooth. When you ignore the diseased tooth for longer, it may reach the point where you can’t rescue it. It increases the need for tooth pulling, leading to gaps in the mouth that significantly affects your look and potential to speak and chew food.

Benefits of Root Canal Procedure

Following are the few main advantages of the treatment:

  • Pain-Free
  • Prevents degeneration of jawbone and loss of tooth
  • Improves dental and overall health
  • Prevents infection of surrounding teeth
  • Boosts the aesthetics of teeth

Do You Need a Crown to Shield a Root Canal Tooth from Fracture?

Molar Tooth

Molars are the teeth that are out of sight. A porcelain-fused-to-metal dental cap is the best. They are more durable than ceramic crowns and look similar to real teeth.

Front Tooth

The root canal cleans the pulp in the tooth centre. When the dental professional prepares the tooth for a dental crown, he/she minimizes the diameter by 30%.

Unless the patient has a big tooth structure missing, he/she does not need a crown on a front tooth after a root canal. Few dentists use a cap on a front tooth if it turns dark from root canal filling materials and cement after treatment. Remember, a root canal makes the outer tooth weak. So, the dentist uses a crown to reinforce it.

Dental Procedures That Need Crown Without Root Canal

The following are situations when you require a crown without a root canal:

  • To mask an implant
  • To cover a dental filling or broken tooth
  • To improve chips or discoloration on the tooth
  • To cover a dental filling
  • To make the weak tooth strong and stable
  • To support a dental bridge

How Long Can You Go Without Getting a Dental Crown After Root Canal Treatment?

If your tooth has a huge dental filling, getting the crown over it will help you to make it strong. It would crack when you bite down on something hard incorrectly. Remember, a tooth with 50% filling is more prone to breakage, unlike those with 25% filling.

On the other hand, if your tooth has a temporary dental crown, it’s not a good idea to delay getting a dental crown. Temporary caps do not last for longer. The material used for manufacturing is dental acrylic. Therefore, it is vital to get a permanent dental crown over the root canal as soon as possible. Usually, you can delay the cap for 1 to 2 months. But if time is longer than that, it can break.

What Happens During a Root Canal without a Dental Crown?

The dental professional numbs the affected tooth and makes a hole in the outer tooth to access the tooth pulp. After that, our modern dentist at DSV Dental Brooklin Village eradicates the infected tissue to clear the debris. It will prevent tooth decay from spreading to other teeth or getting worse. Then, the expert uses a dental filling to seal the tooth. If the patient does not want the crown over the root canal, the dentist uses a dental filling to restore the tooth.

Why a Crown is Necessary After Root Canal Treatment?

Crowns are the final step in the root canal. In most cases, the treatment is incomplete without a protective cover – a crown. Premolar and molar teeth need a crown because they need additional support and handle the most bite force.

Below are the factors that determine why a dental cap is crucial after RCT:

Bruxism

People that constantly clench and grind their teeth will need a crown after root canal therapy in Whitby, ON. Bruxism makes healthy teeth weak. The pressure from the bruxism can be dangerous for the root canaled tooth.

Dental Health

When it comes to the crowns, your oral health also plays a huge role. If the dentist spots a slight tooth decay or cracks in the tooth, he/she fills it using a resin instead of a complete crown.

Earlier Damage to the Tooth

Another factor with crown placement is past damage to the teeth with the root canal. It makes them more prone to breaking. Getting a dental crown prevents the tooth from falling into small pieces.

Can You Get Dental Implants While Being Pregnant?

Dental implants are considered one of the most successful tooth restoration methods. They mimic the natural tooth in structure, restoring its aesthetics and functionality. Although implants are advantageous tooth restoration methods, not everyone can have them. Read on to find out whether a patient can get dental implants during pregnancy.

What Are Dental Implants, and How Do They Work?

They are replacement tooth roots made of tiny titanium posts. Implants contain a crown, bridge, or dentures that replace the tooth’s visible part, eliminating the gap. Therefore, they mimic the real tooth structure in function and aesthetics. The rest of the teeth are not altered or affected during the implant placement procedure.

Dental implants replace missing teeth with a custom-made natural-looking prosthetic. It closely resembles the adjacent teeth in shape and color, enhancing your smile. They help maintain a healthy bite, keep the adjacent teeth from shifting out of place and preserve the jaw bone. In addition, these teeth replacements can last a lifetime with proper maintenance.

The titanium posts are surgically embedded into the jaw bone or placed above the jaw bone by a dentist. It takes many months for the implant to fuse with the jaw bone and become sturdy. When this happens, the dentist attaches custom-made prosthetics to the posts to replace the entire tooth. The implants provide stable support for the artificial teeth to function without issues.

Reasons to Avoid Dental Implants While Pregnant

Generally, dentists recommend avoiding elective procedures during pregnancy. These procedures pose no significant health risks if not performed immediately. Dental implants are considered elective procedures. There are more risks in undergoing the procedure than waiting.

Therefore, the dentist may ask you to wait until after birth before having the dental implant process. Other reasons for postponing replacing your missing teeth with dental implants in Whitby, ON, include:

  • Several oral health changes during pregnancy can lead to dental implant failure. For example, the hormone increase causes gum inflammation, inhibiting recovery after surgery.
  • A dental implant during pregnancy is not recommended due to changes in the woman’s immune system. The poor immunity increases the risk of infection in the operated area.
  • X-ray images are usually taken while preparing to get dental implants. They help evaluate bone density and customize the treatment plan. Some x-ray machines emit radiation that is harmful to the unborn child.
  • Fixing the implant into the jaw bone is invasive and painful. Therefore, the patient will need anesthesia and sedatives for a comfortable procedure. Some anesthetics and sedatives may not be safe for the mother and fetus. As a result, dentists avoid the implant process during pregnancy to protect the two.
  • After the surgery, patients require medications to manage the pain and prevent infection. Pregnant patients cannot use most medicines because they harm the fetus. This limits the options available to alleviate post-surgical symptoms.
  • The dental implant process is quite invasive, and the recovery period is long. Therefore, the patient may have stress and anxiety during the procedure. Excess stress may lead to high blood pressure, low birth weight, and preterm birth.

Getting Implants While Pregnant

As much as it is ideal to wait until the baby is born, you can still get dental implants during pregnancy. So, talk to a dentist in Whitby, ON if you feel you must restore your smile with implants and do not want to wait. The expert will consult your doctor before starting the process for dental implants in Whitby, ON. Then, they will weigh the risks to determine if you can have the procedure.

If they decide you can have the implants, you will have to wait until the second or third trimester. Invasive dental work in the first trimester risks the developing fetus unnecessarily. In addition, it may lead to severe complications such as a miscarriage. On the other hand, you may find it uncomfortable to have the process in the last trimester. The second trimester is the ideal period to get implants. You can have local anesthesia and x-rays without posing any risks to the child.

Contact us at DSV Dental Brooklin Village for an evaluation to determine if you can have implants while pregnant. If it is safe to proceed, we will take precautions during each step of the procedure to ensure your safety.

Are Athletic Mouth Guards Really Effective?

If you participate in contact sports or activities that involve crashing with the surroundings, athletic mouthguards can help. They are tiny protective devices that fit over the teeth and absorb the pressure of an impact. It helps in shielding your mouth from tongue, cheeks, lips, and teeth injuries. It prevents loss of a tooth, damage to bones, tooth root damage, and having chips or broken teeth.

Even the individuals that participate in activities or sports which do not include contact can even take advantage of this device. As you know, 25% of all dental injuries are associated with sports activities. The American dental association advises every youth, child, and adult taking part in sports to wear a mouth guard. Let’s discover the benefits of getting this vital piece of equipment in your mouth.

Pros of Athletic Mouthguards

Fractures, broken, knocked out, or chipped teeth are the most common major injuries that occur during contact sports. Athletes are 60x more likely to damage teeth if they avoid wearing a mouthguard.

Also, about 2,00,000 high school and college athletes in the United States prevent mouth-related injuries every year with these protective devices. Below are the advantages of getting mouth guards in Whitby, ON:

1. Prevents Teeth Grinding and TMJ

Few sports are tough to play. It makes the athlete grind or clenches their teeth from stress. A custom athletic mouthguard prevents Temporomandibular joint disorder and clenching of teeth.

2. Shields More Than Just Teeth

A mouthguard not only guards the teeth but also the soft tissues, lips, gums, and tongue of athletes. They get the majority of the blast from the sudden fall. It helps in preventing serious jaw injuries and other trauma.

3. It Reduces the Possibility of Serious Injuries 

During contact sports, the blow of different degrees gets delivered to the chin and jaw constantly. Wearing an athletic mouthguard during contact sports lowers the effect of a collision on the hit region. It prevents serious injuries – concussion, fractures in the jaw, cerebral hemorrhage, etc.

Around 3.5 million kids get injured every year while playing some sports activity. Mouthguards can help in preventing around 2,00,000 mouth and teeth injuries.

4. Works for a Wide Range of Sports

Another advantage of customized athletic sports guards is they function for numerous sports. They keep the mouth and teeth safer whether your kid loves playing basketball, hockey, or other high-contact sports.

5. Cost-Effective

These protective mouth devices at the dental office Whitby are cheaper compared to restorative dental work. They are less painful and shield your head, mouth, or neck. It helps you in saving thousands of dollars on expensive dental treatments. So, athletic mouthguards offer your kid an ideal smile without spending much money.

6. Avoid Restricting Air Flow

Having a custom mouthguard does not hinder the airflow of your kid. Firstly, the dentist will take a mold of the mouth and teeth of your child. It allows the guard to work well and prevents slipping.

7. Shields Your Dental Restorations

If you have braces, dental bridges, or crowns, it is essential to take care of them while playing high-impact contact sports. Any damage to these restorations will lead to pain and the need for costly repairs or replacements. But getting an athletic mouthguard will shield your dental work from the damage caused due to an accident.

When to Use an Athletic Mouthguard?

Even sports that do not have contact between different participants can still lead to accidents. If you participate in the following sports, you will need an athletic mouthguard.

  • Field hockey.
  • Football.
  • Boxing.
  • Basketball.
  • Martial Arts.
  • Lacrosse.
  • Rugby.
  • Soft ball.
  • Wrestling.
  • Gymnastics.
  • Volleyball.
  • Baseball.

An athletic mouthguard (known as a sports guard) is worn over the upper teeth to prevent trauma. Oral injuries extend beyond the loss of teeth. It can lead to damage to the soft tissues in the mouth, traumatic brain injuries, jaw injuries, and injuries to the neck.

All of them stop you from participating in your favorite contact sports again. If you need assistance in selecting an athletic mouthguard, visit DSV Dental Brooklin Village as soon as possible. Make sure you replace the mouthguard after some time to ensure the best protection.

Why Does My Dental Bonding Keep Chipping?

Cosmetic dental bonding treatment procedures have gained popularity over the years because it offers people a conservative method of treating teeth with gaps, staining, or minor cracks. Dental bonding is acknowledged as straightforward and effective, but there are times when problems can arise with the procedure.

Dental bonding has some drawbacks like any other dental procedure, and one of them is the bonding chipping or becoming loose. If you know what you can do when dental bonding chips, you find it more helpful than someone who doesn’t know what to do or how to manage it.

This article provides information on what you can do when dental bonding chips or falls off. Kindly read more details.

Why Does Dental Bonding Chip?

The composite resin used during the dental bonding procedure isn’t as durable as your natural teeth. The possibilities of the bonding material chipping and separating from your teeth exist. However, chipping or breaking doesn’t occur with dental crowns, veneers, or fillings.

The dental bonding material adheres to your teeth, and there are times when your provider doesn’t thoroughly put the material on. The dentist might miss a tiny spot that eventually loosens over time, causing the material to chip and fall off.

In some cases, the shape of the tooth bonding may not be spot on, and when chewing on foods, it might be catching on the adhesion, resulting in it becoming loose to result in chipping.

A bonded tooth might chip if you chew on ice, pens, pencils, bite your fingernails, or hard food and candy. In addition, the resin isn’t stain-resistant, making it prone to discoloration if you smoke or drink coffee frequently.

What Must You Do If the Bonding Material Chips?

If your bonded tooth chips, you must make an appointment with dental bonding in Whitby, ON, to have the tooth restored. All dental procedures have their flaws, but dental bonding must remain on your teeth for nearly a decade.

If your bonded tooth begins to chip, do not try to pull or yank the material further. If parts of it are still connected to the tooth, the better option is to leave it or old it until it is examined by the Brooklin dentist.

Yanking the chipped portion of the bonded tooth results in sensitivity, pain, and staining as your tooth is etched before applying the bonding material to help it adhere to the tooth. The etching solution can comfortably soak up germs and pigmented materials resulting in damage and staining.

You might be tempted to yank the chipped portion of the bonding but holding it in place until the dentist can examine it is better than trying to do something yourself.

Keeping The Area Clean

If your dental bonding has chipped or fallen off, you must keep the tooth and the surrounding area clean. It helps if you avoid chewing on hard stuff because it can cause pain and sensitivity to the bonded tooth. Ensure that you brush the area gently to prevent bacteria from building up.

Cosmetic dental bonding procedures are a conservative method of improving the appearance of your teeth and smile by a non-invasive procedure completed by the dentist in an appointment unless you need extensive work done. You might not require anesthesia unless you must have cavities filled. The bonding material remains on your teeth for nearly a decade but requires proper care to ensure it doesn’t chip or become loose.

Unfortunately, if the dental bonding material has chipped on your teeth, the best option is to call the Brooklin dentist as soon as possible because they can repair or replace the bond.

Caring for Bonded Teeth

When you have your teeth bonded, you must care for them because it helps extend the life of the bonding procedure. Some self-care tips you must follow include:

  • You must brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each and floss at least once.
  • You help yourself by avoiding complex foods and candy.
  • You must refrain from writing your fingernails and schedule six monthly dental cleanings without exceptions.
  • You must avoid coffee, tea, and tobacco for the initial 48 hours after the dental bonding procedure to prevent staining of your teeth.

If you have a chipped bonded tooth, you must contact your dentist in Whitby, ON to have it restored as soon as possible.

DSV Dental Brooklin Village provides dental bonding with comprehensive after-care interactions to ensure you don’t chip or separate from your natural tooth. Kindly schedule an appointment with this practice today to receive this conservative and inexpensive cosmetic dental treatment.

Can a Dental Implants Get Infected Years Later?

Dental implants are the only teeth replacement treatments that can stop bone loss. The dental implants in Whitby, ON, are surgically placed on the jawbone to anchor the artificial teeth. This procedure has a success rate, and the implants can last for a lifetime with proper care. However, occasionally, something may go wrong, and you can develop an infection years later.

One of the most common dental implant complications is peri-implantitis, an infection that affects the gum tissue.

What is Peri-implantitis?

Peri-implantitis, just like most gum problems, is caused by plaques that accumulate along and around the gum line, causing an infection and inflammation. When this happens, you risk losing the implants and other associated complications. Fortunately, the implant infection is reversible if treatment is started on time.

In the early stages of the implant infection, the symptoms are relatively mild, and you may experience gum swelling, tenderness, and sensitivity.

What Causes Implant Infection?

Three primary factors can increase the risk of peri-implantitis, and they include:

  • Systemic disease. Having an existing condition that affects the whole body (systemic) can predispose you to gum problems even after getting implants. If you have diabetes or other systemic diseases, it is important to consult a dentist in Brooklyn before getting the implants.
  • Poor oral hygiene. The implants, made of titanium, are less prone to decay. However, the gums and surrounding implants can get infected by bacteria. Plaque accumulation in the gum line allows bacteria to multiply, increasing the risk of infection. Smoking and drug abuse also increase the risk of implant infection.
  • Involuntary habits. Habits like teeth grinding can cause wear and tear to the crown and affect the positioning of the teeth. This, in turn, will affect the implants.

What are the Signs That the Tooth Implant is Infected?

If your implant is infected, you can experience bad breath. This is caused by low-quality implants that emit a bad smell and taste. You can also have pus or bleeding around the area of the implant. You may notice gum bleeding after brushing, which is often an indication of gum disease.

Other symptoms that you may experience include pain, difficulty chewing, red, swollen gums, and loose implant. If you have these symptoms, accompanied by fever, visit a dental office in Whitby, ON, for assistance.

These implant infection symptoms are mild and can be reversed if caught early. However, if not treated on time, it could progress to a severe stage and lead to implant loss.

How Can Are the Implant Infection Treated?

The implant infection affects the gums and the tissues surrounding the implant. Since it is a bacterial infection, the dentist will opt for medication and nonsurgical treatment to remove the infection. If the treatment does not work, surgery is an option to remove the affected gum tissue. The dentist will clear the bacteria buildup around the implant.

If the supporting bone is affected, a bone graft may be done to stabilize the implant.

How Can You Prevent Implant Infection?

It is crucial to consult and work with a licensed dentist if you have a systemic disease or a previous bacterial infection like periodontitis before and after the implant procedure. Establish proper dental hygiene to protect the teeth and gums from bacteria attacks. Floss every day; about 1/3 of the plaques in the mouth are found between the teeth, and flossing will help you remove them.

Wear a nightguard if you suffer from grinding and clenching of the teeth. It shields the teeth from pressure and prevents wear and tear of the crown and surrounding teeth.

Ensure you visit a licensed specialist for the implant procedure. An experienced dentist will use the proper techniques to fix the implants, preventing future problems. Visit a dentist regularly—at least every six months, to get a comprehensive assessment and teeth cleaning.

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Visit DSV Dental Brooklin Village for more information about dental implants and what you can do to prevent an infection.

Can You Do Teeth Whitening with Tooth Gems?

Fashion trends keep on changing on a daily basis, and most people keep a keen eye on what is popular and what is not. New trends are always on the horizon, and one such trend is the application of tooth gems. This trend is quite popular among the younger generation in the 90s, but it has come back now. If you are thinking about getting tooth gems, you should book an appointment with a reputable dentist. DSV Dental Brooklin Village is a professional dental office in Whitby, ON, which can perform this procedure with great accuracy. The main question that people ask is whether you can perform teeth whitening with tooth gems, and here we will put that to the discussion.

What are Tooth Gems?

Tooth gems are tiny jewels or rhinestones that are placed on the tooth using a special adhesive. People usually go for tooth gems to enhance the cosmetic effect on their smile, and for that reason, people place them on their visible teeth. One important thing to note is that tooth gems have a lifespan of around six months, but some can last longer.

To put aside any misconceptions, tooth gems do not damage your teeth. In fact, each tooth gem is custom-made to the clients’ specifications to perfectly fit their mouth. In order to apply tooth gems, the dentist doesn’t need to do any drilling. Instead, they can just fix the gems on the teeth using a special bonding material. This not only makes it easy to apply the gems, but it also makes them easily removable.

Additional Information about Getting Tooth Gems

Now, there are some additional things you need to know about tooth gems. For starters, it is a common question whether you should get teeth whitening before you get gems placed on your teeth. The answer is yes; this is because usually when the gem is removed, it can leave a stain on the tooth. But if you get teeth whitening beforehand, it will reduce the intensity of the discoloration. If you choose to undergo the teeth whitening in Whitby, ON process over your teeth gems, it may weaken the bond.

Another point to note is that in order for the dentist to place a tooth gem, the tooth needs to be in excellent condition. Additionally, the gem can only be bonded to organic material, and it means you cannot bond them to veneers or dentures. If you experience sensitivity while drinking cold water, the gem can increase the pain, so it is better to consult your dentist first.

Some patients wonder if they can bring their own gems, and the answer is no. If you want to apply tooth gems, you have to let your dentist procure them. In this way, they can make sure that the gems are of good quality and don’t cause problems later on. If you bring your own gems, the dentist cannot adequately ascertain the quality of the material.

Lastly, for anyone to get tooth gems, they need to be of legal age.

Pre and Post Appointment Care

Before you go for your tooth gem appointment, it is recommended that you clean your teeth beforehand, which includes brushing and flossing your teeth properly. Doing this will give the dentist the ideal conditions to work, and they will require less time to complete the process. Before booking an appointment, make sure that you haven’t had a dental cleaning in the past few days. This is because dental cleaning can often cause micro incisions in the gums, which can be problematic during a teeth whitening session.

Once the dentist has completed applying the gem, it is wise to avoid brushing your teeth or using mouthwash for at least 12 to 24 hours. If you brush your teeth too soon, it can cause the tooth gem to fall off. You should also avoid drinking hot beverages after tooth gem application as it can weaken the bond. Other than that, there are no other special measures to take. Keep in mind that once you apply a tooth gem, it can be removed easily. Don’t try to remove it yourself. Just visit your dentist, and they will do it for you.

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