As you age, maintaining healthy oral habits is essential to help your teeth last a lifetime. People over the age of 65 have an increased chance of gum disease, tooth loss, and dental decay. Although teeth changes will occur, there are a few ways to help support healthy teeth and gums as you grow older.
Acknowledge Natural Wear and Tear
Teeth changes are natural. Wear and tear come to all physical aspects of life, including our bodies, and teeth are no exception. After so much use, older teeth are more worn down than younger teeth. As we age, our teeth get weaker, more susceptible to cracks and breaks. This makes proper care more important than ever. This can include being aware of more sensitive teeth and forming specific treatment plans with your dentist as necessary.
While it is natural for teeth to wear down, you don’t have to expedite the process, and there are some measures you can take to preserve your teeth as much as possible. Wearing a nightguard is a great way to protect your teeth. Another type of protection comes with monitoring what you put in your mouth, as described below.
Recognize Food and Drinks to Avoid
You’ve likely noticed or are already aware that some foods and drinks, including coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco, act as staining agents to teeth, causing mild to severe discoloration, especially with frequent use over time. Tobacco is the most serious of these elements to avoid, since “the risk of developing an oral cavity cancer increases with age and tobacco use,” as studied by Harvard Health Publishing.
Having a dry mouth is also a bigger concern with age, especially since it’s paired with increased cavity risk. Tobacco dries out your mouth even more — another reason to avoid it. It’s the same with alcohol and caffeinated beverages. If you must have these drinks, counteract the dry mouth effects with sugarless gums and plenty of water.
Be Aware of Gum Health
Teeth changes that come with age are not just about teeth, because your smile is more than teeth: it’s also about your gums. Naturally, gums will thin and recede with age. That doesn’t just make your smile look different; gum recession exposes the softer roots of teeth. Without as much protection, teeth can more easily get cavities. You are also more vulnerable to gum disease as you get older for this reason.
Gum health is critical to be aware of when it comes to maintaining a healthy appearance and sensation in your mouth. The last thing you want is discomfort, swelling, or pain in the gums to affect the look and feel of your smile. Be aware of the symptoms of gum disease and pay attention to your gum appearance and feel. Let your dentist know immediately if you have itchy gums or any pain in your mouth. It’s best to take care of small issues as soon as possible before they become emergencies.
Prioritize Your Dental Care
As your teeth change with age, it’s more important than ever to prioritize your dental care. Establish a consistent routine of regular dental checkups and dedicated oral hygiene maintenance at home to keep a youthful-looking smile even through the natural wear and tear that comes with teeth changes with age.
Here at Definitive Dental, we’re here to help you with personalized care towards promoting your oral health at any age, from 6 months old to 100 years old. Get in contact with us today so we can get started with your custom treatment plan. From dental emergencies to dentures and regular cleanings, we have all the services you need for complete oral health!
Dental implants are titanium devices that act as replacement roots for missing or damaged teeth. Getting dental implants involves surgical placement, letting them heal, and then adding a metal connection called an abutment. Finally, a crown that functions and looks like a natural tooth is placed on top of the abutment. Dental implants are an excellent alternative to bridges or dentures, particularly in patients who don’t want anything removable or to drill on the adjacent teeth.
When Are Dental Implants Necessary?
If you have at least one missing or broken tooth that needs to be replaced, you may consider getting dental implants. Patients with loose partials, dentures, bridges and those wanting to improve their chewing, speech, or face structure may also benefit from getting dental implants.
Note that you are generally a good candidate for dental implants if you have enough bone to support your implants or with bone grafting to provide the necessary bone. Strong bone is key for implant success, as implants should last for life.
Benefits of Dental Implants
One of the advantages of dental implants is that they don’t affect the surrounding teeth. In addition, dental implants can prevent bone loss and maintain your jaw’s natural shape and appearance.
Appearance
Dental implants match your mouth’s natural teeth and are available in a broad range of sizes and shapes. Your dental team will make sure that your implants match your surrounding teeth’s color and fit in your gaps perfectly, so only you and your dentist will be able to tell your natural teeth from your implants.
Biting Ability
Dental implants’ benefits also include the ability to restore your bite force. That’s because a dental implant’s titanium post is securely anchored in the jawbone. As a result, it is strong enough to allow you to bite using the same force you would use with a natural tooth.
Speaking Ability
Yet another reason to choose dental implants is that they will help you speak naturally and easily. Whereas dentures can make it hard to pronounce some words correctly, implants can enhance your speech simply because they function and look like your natural teeth.
Cavity Prevention
Finally, dental implants offer the benefit of being resistant to cavities. You will still have to care for your gums to keep infection-causing bacteria from accumulating in the mouth. However, the material in dental implants can’t decay, which means cavities will never be a problem for them.
What Are the Next Steps?
If you are interested in getting dental implants, our expert, Dr. Guirguis is eager to help. Dr. Guirguis has trained across the country with some of the best instructors in the nation and has successfully placed hundreds of implants.
Your implant procedure may take place in a single stage or multiple stages depending on your unique situation, with the surgery generally taking one to two hours each time. There is no postoperative discomfort associated with this procedure. Then it will take about three months for your implants to completely integrate into your jawbone and be ready for a crown. Implant dentures can be made to serve as a temporary in the case all teeth are removed or no natural teeth remain.
Book an implant appointment today by calling or texting us at (972) 646-0660, or reach out via our contact form to request an appointment.
Everyone’s teeth dull naturally, and there can be several reasons you want a whiter smile. Maybe you have a special occasion like a graduation or holiday coming up where you’d like to look nice for photos, and you’re looking for a quick fix that will make a real difference. We have a solution for you with Zoom! teeth whitening. If you’ve ever wondered what a Zoom! whitening kit is or how effective Zoom! whitening gel will be on your teeth, read on to discover how the Zoom! teeth whitening process can give you a dramatically brighter smile in a short period of time.
What is Zoom! Teeth Whitening?
As the name suggests, Zoom! teeth whitening is a quick way to brighten the appearance of teeth. The process works with a powerful UV lamp that activates the whitening agent, made of hydrogen peroxide, which is placed on the teeth. The tooth bleaching process occurs when the hydrogen peroxide breaks down because of the heat and light of the lamp, bringing oxygen to the enamel and dentin. This whitening process bleaches away visible stains, discolorations, and darkened sections of teeth while still preserving the underlying structure of each tooth.
As you can see in our before and after images below, Zoom! teeth whitening makes a visible difference in the brightness of a smile. Give your teeth a healthy-looking glow with a Zoom! whitening kit.
Eligibility for the Procedure
Zoom! teeth whitening is quick and relatively easy, but that doesn’t mean it’s for everyone. A dentist needs to approve the tooth whitening process. In certain cases based on oral hygiene, lifestyle, or dental cosmetic goals, teeth whitening may not be the best choice. Whitening is always the final step in your treatment. Your mouth must be free from cavities prior to whitening.
It is important to recognize that any existing dental work you have will not respond to Zoom! teeth whitening. So if you have crowns or veneers that match your current smile brightness, using a Zoom! whitening kit may give you a mismatched-looking smile. Your dentist will help you determine if a Zoom! whitening gel is a good fit for your oral circumstances and preferences.
Benefits of Zoom! Whitening
The most obvious and most important advantage of Zoom! teeth whitening is that it is a quick, reliable way to get your teeth to look brighter. There are plenty of whitening options out there, from toothpaste to strips and bleaching trays, but Zoom! whitening takes less than an hour for immediate results. Plus, you get a Zoom! whitening kit with Zoom! whitening gel to help maintain those shining results. Also, importantly, Zoom! whitening does not have any long-term side effects the way some other oral procedures can.
Procedure Details
There isn’t much involved with the Zoom! whitening procedure other than an official consultation beforehand to get approval from the dentist for this method.
Once you are here at the office ready for your teeth whitening procedure to begin, the process will be very quick. All you will need to do is get settled comfortably in your chair. Then we give you a cheek retractor, apply the whitening gel to your teeth, and shine a UV light on your smile. We will then remove the gel after about half an hour. And that’s it! You will see the immediate results in a brighter smile.
We will provide you with detailed instructions for your at home Zoom! whitening kit and schedule your next appointment.
Get Speedy, Sparkling Results
Our team will help you achieve a brighter smile in under an hour.
Whether you have tooth imperfections or are interested in straightening your teeth, Definitive Dental can help you improve the appearance of your teeth.
With invisible aligners, like SureSmile and Invisalign, you can straighten your teeth discreetly and comfortably. On the other hand, veneers are a wonderful option if you are looking for a way to conceal tooth imperfections and discoloration.
Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons, typical candidates, and procedures of veneers vs clear aligners.
Veneers vs Invisalign: At a Glance
Veneers vs Invisalign: Who is a Good Candidate?
Since veneers are permanent fixtures on the teeth, they work well for color correction and size assimilation for a unified smile, but can’t do as much for moving teeth around. On the other hand, clear aligners can help teeth gradually shift, but don’t help with discoloration.
It should be noted that neither clear aligners nor veneers are usually recommended for children. SureSmile and Invisalign clear aligners focus on straightening teeth, but should not be considered before permanent teeth are in the mouth. Similarly, veneers are made to last, so they shouldn’t be put on baby teeth.
Veneers vs Invisalign: Pros and Cons
Clear aligners have the advantage of being a popular, tried-and-true method that’s relatively the same cost as braces for correcting while offering a quick, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing treatment experience compared to regular braces. However, clear aligners need to be worn for the majority of the day, about 20-22 hours.
Veneers can protect damaged or eroded teeth with a secure covering. However, if you don’t put veneers on all your front teeth, you can have an uneven smile with noticeable color differences as normal teeth change color over time while the veneers remain the same. Veneers are also generally irreversible, in the event your veneers become damaged, you will have to put on another veneer or crown the tooth.
Veneers vs Invisalign: Procedure Details
Length, cost, and recovery are all factors to consider. As previously mentioned, the treatment plan for clear aligners lasts around 6-8 months. After an initial consultation and exam, a virtual workup of your smile is created to envision the results. Once the aligners are ready, patients will need to wear their clear aligners every day, except during meals. Regular checkups are also required to ensure that teeth are moving properly and new trays are used when necessary.
In contrast, veneers only involve procedures at the dentist without any taking off or putting on anything at home since they are permanently placed on teeth. Typically, you have a consult visit, a first operative visit where you get temporary veneers and have an impression taken for your permanent ones, and then a follow-up visit where you get your permanent veneers. Each of these procedures is relatively quick and painless. There isn’t much recovery required since it is typically not an invasive or intensive process, but you do need to upkeep your oral health and continue seeing your dentist regularly to monitor your veneer condition.
Get the Right Care for You
Our dentists create healthy and beautiful smiles that last. Whether you are considering veneers or clear aligners, your journey begins with an initial consultation.
Call our office at (972) 646-0660 to set up your initial consultation.
If you’re feeling unsettled about your upcoming dental procedure, you can take comfort in our sedation dentistry options at our dentist’s office in Texas.
Our sedation dentistry services—at our dentist’s office in Grand Prairie, Texas—involve using medication and laughing gas to make it easier for patients to relax during their oral care procedures. When patients undergo sedation, they are typically awake but feel more comfortable and at ease during their procedures. Let’s take a closer look at why sedation dentistry is so beneficial for patients in Texas.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry in Texas
A key benefit of sedation dentistry is that it is designed to reduce dental anxiety in patients during dental procedures such as root canal treatment, tooth extractions, or even dental implants. As a result, you can have a truly positive oral treatment experience from start to finish.
Who Are the Best Candidates for Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry in Texas is most appropriate for patients whose dental anxiety levels are severe, as sedation can make it easier for patients to visit the dentist’s office.
Sedation dentistry is also appropriate for:
Patients with overactive gag reflexes
Patients who struggle to become numb
Patients with musculoskeletal issues
Patients with severe stress and discomfort
Patients with sensitive teeth or low pain tolerance
Patients with fidgety behavior, claustrophobia, or previous traumatic experiences at the dentist’s office
Experience the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry at Definitive Dental
If you feel apprehensive about your next dental treatment, we at Definitive Dental can help with our sedation dentistry services in Grand Prairie. With our Profound Numbing Guarantee, you can experience a sense of peace and confidence each time you undergo a procedure as we will pause treatment to administer more anesthetic and only continue once you are comfortable.
Our sedation dentistry services are just one reason why we have earned more than 300 five-star ratings and continue to receive praise from customers in Texas. At Definitive Dental, which is affiliated with both the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association, we take pride in being a dental office known for Dentistry Done Right. With our cutting-edge dental technologies combined with our matchless patient focus, you can rest assured that every trip to our office will be a positive one.
Get in touch with us to learn more about how our sedation dentistry services in Texas can enhance your dental treatment experiences in the months and years ahead.
ou’re ready to start smiling with confidence by straightening your teeth, but you don’t feel comfortable with the idea of wearing traditional metal braces. Fortunately, you may not have to.
With invisible aligners—an increasingly popular alternative to traditional metal braces—you can easily straighten your teeth in an effective and discreet way. Here is a look at everything you need to know about invisible aligners, including cleaning invisible aligners and eating with your aligners.
See the End Results Before you Start!
The all-digital process, from digital scans to digital x-rays, will allow you to see how your teeth will look after treatment is completed before you even begin. The process is remarkably simple and best of all, no gunky impressions.
A Look at Invisible Aligners
Aligners are made from thin shells made of plastic that are designed to gently push your teeth into the proper position gradually. Unlike traditional braces, these aligners are relatively transparent and are also less likely to irritate your gums. With these aligners, you can experience excellent teeth-straightening results starting in just four to six weeks while also being able to remove your aligners when needed.
How Invisible Aligners Work
When you use aligners, you will likely replace your aligners every two weeks as your teeth shift. Every new aligner you receive will be completely unique based on the current shape and placement of your teeth at each stage of the teeth alignment transformation process. You will need to wear your aligners for a minimum of 20 to 22 hours per day to ensure appropriate tooth movement.
Length of Treatment with Invisible Aligners
With SureSmile, you will experience amazing results with fewer refinements at the end and on average three months shorter treatment time than Invisalign! Your full treatment with aligners may take between six and 18 months. Adult patients who underwent previous orthodontic treatment usually achieve the results they desire in just 12 weeks. Some patients might require more complex treatment plans based on their particular bite or crowding issues, and traditional braces may be necessary. We will be able to let you know during your initial consultation.
Eating with Invisible Aligners
One of the biggest benefits of aligners is that they can easily be removed before mealtimes. For this reason, it is recommended that you avoid eating with your aligners. By removing your aligners before you eat, you avoid damaging them by chewing on foods that are hard. You also prevent pieces of food from becoming trapped between the aligners and teeth, possibly causing cavities.
On the flip side, you can feel free to drink water while wearing your aligners. However, it is best to avoid drinking anything else or hot beverages with your aligners on, as the heat may warp the aligners. In addition, you might want to avoid any -colored beverages, which may stain your aligners. Likewise, keep cavities at bay by steering clear of sugary beverages when you’re wearing aligners.
Cleaning Invisible Aligners
When it comes to cleaning your aligners, you should rinse them thoroughly whenever you remove them. Then, brush them using a toothbrush with soft bristles and liquid soap that is clear and mild. Afterward, rinse your aligners to remove the soap. Your aligners will then be ready to use again.
Take Advantage of Aligners at Definitive Dental!
If you’re ready to improve your smile’s appearance and function with aligners, we at Definitive Dental can help. All it takes is a call to our office to begin your invisible aligner journey.
Contact us to schedule a consultation and begin transforming your smile!
Are you wondering about how you can whiten your teeth without coming into the office? We’ll go over what to do if you’re looking for that bright shine for your smile achieved right from the comfort of your own home.
Can I whiten my own teeth?
While it is possible to whiten your own teeth, it may not be as quick and easy as the top results on the Internet lead you to believe. If you want to do your teeth whitening at home, the best-case methods use peroxide. However, don’t assume you can just follow suggestions from Pinterest or TikTok to mix your brown-bottle hydrogen peroxide with baking soda, or to use a whitening toothpaste that contains peroxide, and instantly get the white teeth you want.
Results may take a long time before you’ll be able to recognize a difference. And mixing your own solution can be ineffective or even dangerous, depending on the ratios and products you use. The last thing you want is to damage your teeth because you were trying to do teeth whitening at home. Instead, you’ll want a safe, effective treatment option where you can work to maintain your results.
How can you do teeth whitening at home?
Don’t worry — you can whiten your teeth safely and effectively at home. You’ll want to get a hydrogen or carbamide peroxide gel directly from a trusted dental service.
And this can’t be someone you don’t know, even if they’re a high-quality dentistry office, because the whitening gel needs to be used with a custom-made mouth guard for you. So you can whiten your teeth at home, but you still need the help of your dentist. At Definitive Dental, we offer several professional-strength take-home options for teeth whitening at home, as well as in-office options.
Is teeth whitening at home fast?
Do you need your teeth whitening done stat, so you can be picture ready for your best friend’s big day or for some extra confidence with that big project presentation at work? Then you probably shouldn’t do it just by yourself at home.
Teeth whitening at home does give you the most control over the shade of white your teeth become, but it’s not the fastest way. If you’re looking for fast teeth whitening, come into Definitive Dental. Our teeth whitening procedure is called Zoom!, so you know it’s speedy!
Discover Dentistry Done Right
If you want your teeth whitened, Definitive Dental is here to help. Schedule a dentist consultation with us so we can look into the best solutions to take your smile to the next level.
The best cosmetic dentist can upgrade the appearance of your teeth, gums, and jaw while keeping your smile looking as natural as possible. Patients often feel like their smiles are lacking, whether that’s because of chipped teeth, discoloration, improper alignment, or other concerns, and this is where cosmetic dentistry can help.
Unlike restorative procedures, which are often more medically necessary to preserve the health or structure of a patient’s jaw, cosmetic procedures are generally considered elective, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t important! Cosmetic dentistry focuses on what the patient wants, whether that’s a brighter smile or dental implants. Many Dallas-area patients choose cosmetic dentistry to enhance the appearance of their teeth and prevent long-term issues from developing. Definitive Dental can take your smile to new heights.
Our comprehensive dentistry offers a detailed consultation process that enables our team to holistically examine your oral health to recommend the best forms of treatment. We listen to your needs, concerns, and desires so our recommended treatment options can give you the smile you want. As one of Grand Prairie’s best cosmetic dental services, our expert team will help you choose a treatment plan that suits your health goals.
With cosmetic dentistry, you can experience a brighter smile with natural-looking, uniform teeth. If you have previously damaged or injured your teeth, we can help restore your confidence in your smile. Cosmetic dentistry can resolve imperfections, whether it’s missing teeth or tooth decay.
As an added benefit, cosmetic procedures can prevent future oral health concerns. Missing teeth, for example, can lead to bone loss or other complications down the road, so it’s best to resolve the issue as soon as possible.
As Grand Prairie’s best cosmetic dentistry practice, we offer all of these services in individualized treatment plans. We use industry-leading dental technology and an artistic approach to help you get the perfect smile.
Take Your Smile to New Heights with the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Grand Prairie!
At Definitive Dental, we’re known for Dentistry Done Right. With over 400 five-star reviews, we have developed a reputation for being a leading cosmetic dentistry practice in the Dallas-Fort Worth area by genuinely listening to our patients and maximizing their oral health.
We stand behind all of the work we do and are committed to consistently delivering an excellent patient experience. Our Profound Numbing Guarantee promises a nearly painless treatment to all of our patients. We are associated with the Texas Dental Association as well as the American Dental Association, showing our commitment to excellent patient care and oral health.
When you are looking for cosmetic dentistry in Dallas that looks after you from start to finish, we’re here to help! Transform your smile today by giving us a call at (972) 646-0660 or reach out via our contact form for an appointment.
Modern dentistry has numerous options to improve the appearance of your teeth and prevent tooth decay. Dental crowns are standard restorative solutions. The procedure involves putting a cap over your natural tooth or pre-existing dental implant to maintain your jaw structure and stop further damage. Crowns are generally made from hard materials such as porcelain or ceramic, as these match the natural color of teeth the best. While crowns can also be made from gold, resin, and stainless steel, at Definitive Dental, we only use metal-free materials that help you achieve a natural-looking smile.
Is getting a dental crown worth it? The answer depends on your oral health and the extent of the problem you want to address. Here are the major pros and cons of dental crowns.
The Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns improve the overall appearance of your smile and the function of your bite. Crowns can also correct many cosmetic issues, making crown placement one of the more common dental procedures throughout the United States. Advantages include:
Replacing large or worn-out fillings in the teeth
Restoring the structural integrity of dental implants
Covering cracked, injured, or damaged teeth
Correcting discoloration or alignment
Reshaping your teeth
Preventing cracked or damaged teeth from further breaking down
Protecting the original tooth after a root canal
Are dental crowns necessary for restoring your smile? They are, especially when other restorative measures fall short.
Crowns are highly durable. They are designed to last for at least 5-10 years, but with proper care, they can last up to 20 years.
The Drawbacks of Dental Crowns
Like most restorative dental procedures, dental crowns also have certain disadvantages that patients should be aware of. The dentist may need to file down your existing tooth to fit the crown. Many patients experience discomfort or heightened sensitivity to hot and cold foods for weeks or months after the procedure. Our office typically recommends sensitive toothpaste to help with this issue.
With regular checkups and proper care at home, the chances of further tooth decay are low. A dental crown, however, does not entirely dismiss the possibility of further decay. If your crown ever feels loose or chipped, visiting the dentist as soon as possible is essential. Leaving a damaged crown untreated can cause additional complications later down the line. Are dental crowns necessary to prevent these complications? Absolutely.
Tooth Cap vs Crown: Understanding the Differences
Knowing the differences between a tooth cap and a crown is essential when considering dental restorations. Essentially, tooth cap vs crown is more about terminology; “cap” and “crown” generally refer to the same thing. However, understanding tooth cap vs crown can clarify expectations about the procedure.
The Pros and Cons of Dental Crowns – a Quick Summary:
Pros of dental crowns include:
Restore cracked or damaged teeth
Correct discoloration or alignment
Replace worn-out fillings before they break
Restore dental implants
Prevent tooth breakage after a root canal
Cons of dental crowns include:
It may need to be repaired or replaced
Requires minor tooth reduction
Heightened sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages for a few weeks or months
Are dental crowns necessary even with these drawbacks? They often are when considering the long-term benefits.
Get an Expert Consultation
Is it worth getting a dental crown? Dental crowns have several benefits and give patients a beautiful, natural smile. Understanding the pros and cons of dental crowns can help you make an informed decision.
For more information about dental crowns in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, contact Definitive Dental. Whether you’re an existing patient or visiting us for the first time, we’ll review your oral health history and fully explain the pros and cons of dental crowns. When you fill out our form, our team will contact you within one business day. Alternatively, you can call us at (972) 449-1962 or click here to book an appointment.
Chronic bad breath, called halitosis, affects millions of Americans every year. Everyone experiences bad breath early in the morning or after a particularly garlicky meal, but the issue is more concerning if it still doesn’t go away after you brush, floss, or gargle each day. Bad breath can lead to insecurity, a lack of confidence, and self-esteem issues. The good news is that the condition is easily preventable and treated once a dentist determines the underlying cause.
If you’re suffering from bad breath despite brushing, flossing, and maintaining your oral hygiene at home, it’s time to consult a dentist to understand how you can get rid of bad breath.
The Common Causes of Bad Breath
Poor Dental Hygiene
The overwhelming majority of bad breath comes from inside the mouth. Without brushing and flossing daily (including brushing your tongue), bacteria and food particles build up in your mouth. The bacteria produce sulfur compounds that make your breath stink.
Many patients opt to treat bad breath through mints or gum, but this is a short-term solution for a recurring condition. When poor dental hygiene is the primary cause of chronic bad breath, brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash are the only ways to attack and remove the bacteria.
Corrective Devices
When using retainers, dentures, or mouthguards when sleeping, it’s important to be aware that these devices can also lead to bad breath. At our Grand Prairie office, we find that a common cause of bad breath is when these devices trap food particles on unclean teeth and lead to worsening bad breath. To ensure that your corrective devices are not causing bad breath, it’s important to clean your mouthguard or dentures regularly.
Cavities or Infection
Cavities can be detrimental to your overall oral health and also contribute to bad breath. While it’s not a direct cause, the decay pockets created by these cavities can cause bacteria to stick and escape the bristles of your toothbrush. These bacteria then feed on food particles to cause bad breath. Conditions like tonsillitis and strep throat can also be behind bad breath, and it’s critical to get treated for them before it becomes worse.
One way to get rid of bad breath is to go for a dental exam. Your dentist will prescribe corrective treatment for any cavities or infections that are causing bad breath while taking care of your overall oral health.
Dry Mouth or Dehydration
While you might not think that not drinking enough water is affecting your breath, you’d be surprised. A relatively unknown cause of bad breath is not getting enough fluids. A dry mouth can prevent food from leaving the mouth, and this can lead bacteria to feed upon it.
Saliva and water wash away both bacteria and food particles, preventing sulfur compounds from forming in the mouth. Saliva also contains enzymes that can break down food and reduce odor-causing bacteria. The antibacterial properties of saliva also help by eradicating harmful bacteria and infections.
Sometimes, knowing the causes of bad breath isn’t enough to get rid of it. While there are many solutions to resolve bad breath, an expert dentist can tell you which one is the right one for your needs. At Definitive Dental, we pride ourselves on taking exceptional care of each patient by customizing services for their needs. We provide a thorough dental exam that can help identify the cause behind your bad breath.
We also provide family dentistry and cosmetic dentistry to help you achieve optimal oral health while ensuring that you have the best smile around. Book an appointment with us today to take your smile to new heights!
If you think you may have a dental emergency it is important to know what to do to ensure your issue is addressed as soon as possible. Our office provides same day or next day appointments to accommodate our patients that need immediate treatment.
One of the most common dental emergencies that patients experience is tooth pain. There are tips you can try at home if the tooth pain does not go away while you wait for an appointment in our office. Pain is a way of our body sending a message that something is wrong. Typically, if patients experience pain this means there is a problem that must be addressed.
There are many causes for tooth pain such as tooth decay, issues with a filling, tooth fracture, or infection. If you have any of the below signs you may have an infection, and you must be seen right away.
• Fever
• Swollen or red gums
• Blood or pus around tooth
• Throbbing pain that does not go away
• Swollen or tender face or jaw
What Can I Do at Home to Relieve Tooth Pain?
There are remedies patients can use at home to help treat tooth pain while they wait to be seen in our office. These remedies can help reduce pain and keep you comfortable.
• Take an anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen.
• Use a pain relief gel on the area.
• Apply a cold compress covered with a cloth to the area to help reduce inflammation for 20 minutes each time.
• If you have a hot compress this can also be used on the area to help relieve pain.
• Peppermint tea bags can be used on the area and are known to help ease oral pain.
• Clove oil can be used on the area and is known to help reduce inflammation or numb oral pain.
Looking to Make an Appointment to Address Tooth Pain?
If you have tooth pain that does not go away we recommend making an appointment to be seen in our office. Our staff will provide a thorough exam to help identify the cause and address your tooth pain. X-rays may be taken to get a closer look at the issue. We will recommend treatment options, and always address serious issues immediately.
Patients can prevent tooth pain by practicing good oral hygiene habits at home. Brushing and flossing each day is important as well as eating a healthy diet, and avoiding high sugar foods or drinks. We also recommend to avoid hard food items that may cause a crack or injury to your teeth. Regular dental cleanings and exams in our office can help keep your mouth and teeth feeling great.
If you have tooth pain and would like to make an appointment, please call our office and our staff will make sure you are seen as soon as possible!
Cavities are the most common dental issue — more than 90% of American adults have had a cavity at some point in their lives. Practicing good oral hygiene and limiting sweets are great strategies to prevent cavities, but sometimes you get them anyway.
But just because cavities are common, it doesn’t mean they can’t cause serious problems. Cavities can lead to infections, extractions, and other oral problems if you don’t treat them in time. Frequent dental checkups are the best way to identify and treat them early.
Many of our Grand Prairie patients wonderhow they can know if they have a cavity and what to do for the most effective treatment.
What is a Cavity?
A cavity is a hole in your tooth that develops due to decay. Cavities form when bacteria or food build up on the surface of your teeth and eat away at your enamel. Left untreated, cavities can affect deeper layers of your teeth, causing unbearable toothache, serious infections, and, eventually, tooth loss.
How Do I Know If I Have a Cavity?
The signs of a dental cavity depend on the extent of decay and the location of the damaged tooth. At first, you may not even notice any symptoms. As the damage becomes worse, you will experience the following symptoms:
Pain when biting
Sudden toothaches
Visible holes or pits on the tooth
Black, brown, or white stains on the tooth
Pain when eating or drinking something sweet
Lingering sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages
What Do I Do If I Have the Symptoms of a Cavity?
Unfortunately, a cavity is not something you can fix on your own. A dental filling requires special tools and professional expertise. If you have frequent tooth pain or lasting sensitivity while eating, it’s best to call your dentist as soon as possible so you can treat your dental cavity before it gets worse.
Causes of Cavities
You may know how to tell if you have a cavity but still wonder what causes it. Several reasons can lead to dental cavities decaying your tooth and wearing down your enamel. Some of the most common causes of cavities include:
Dry mouth
Fluoride deficiency
Poor brushing and flossing techniques
Sticky foods and beverages like sweets, soda, and cereal
Conditions that force acid into your mouth, such as eating disorders and acid reflux disease
Treatments for Cavities
If you know you have a cavity, fixing it is a relatively straightforward procedure. The dentist will remove the decayed parts of the tooth and repair them with dental fillings or crowns. Depending on the extent of damage, you may also need a root canal treatment.
If you have a cavity in Grand Prairie, contact Definitive Dental for an appointment. Dr. Guirguis and his team can restore your healthy smile. Call us at (972) 646-0660 or contact us online to schedule your appointment and take your smile to new heights!
We all know about the importance of brushing teeth for a healthy smile, but did you know that poor oral hygiene can lead to diseases all over the body? Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through your mouth and cause various illnesses apart from dental issues like cavities and gum disease.
Fortunately, starting with oral hygiene at a young age and sticking with it can prevent most of these issues from developing. Here is a look at various diseases caused by poor dental hygiene and how to avoid them.
What Health Issues Can Result From Poor Oral Hygiene?
Studies show that poor oral health might contribute to various diseases in the body. It may sound extreme, but consider this — failing to brush or floss leads to bacteria growth in your mouth, and when you compound this problem over years and years, it has significant consequences. Here are some of them.
Cardiovascular Diseases
Poor oral hygiene can increase your risk for cardiovascular diseases such as endocarditis. Bacteria can travel to your bloodstream from your mouth and cause inflammation and infection in the heart. Studies also show that those with gum disease have double the risk for stroke.
Diabetes
Another disease caused by poor dental hygiene is diabetes. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which increases blood sugar levels and makes you more susceptible to diabetes.
It also makes blood sugar levels harder to control and exposes you to more complications from the disease.
Pregnancy Complications and Infertility
Poor oral health can also lead to pregnancy complications. According to studies, pregnant women with periodontal disease were six times more likely to deliver prematurely. These studies found that oral bacteria had traveled to the amniotic fluid and placenta. Additionally, poor oral hygiene can cause infertility by lowering sperm count in men.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoporosis
Other diseases caused by poor dental hygiene include rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. Bacteria in the mouth can cause inflammation throughout the body and increase your risk of developing arthritis. If the gum disease persists for a long time, it can also cause bone loss in areas other than the mouth.
Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
Poor oral hygiene can also lead to Alzheimer’s and dementia. Studies show that pathogenic oral bacteria can travel to the nerve channels, destroy brain cells, and cause memory loss.
Kidney Disease
Kidneys are another body part that can be affected by poor oral health. Patients with periodontal disease have weaker immune systems and are more vulnerable to infections and kidney disease.
How Can I Prevent These Diseases?
These are just some of the diseases caused by poor dental hygiene. Pathogenic oral bacteria can also cause respiratory problems and even cancer. To prevent these diseases from developing, you need to visit the dentist every six months and practice good dental hygiene. Here are some tips you can follow:
Keep a Healthy Smile and a Healthy Body With Definitive Dental
A healthy smile means a healthy body. At Definitive Dental, we help you achieve that healthy smile and avoid diseases caused by poor dental hygiene. We welcome patients of all ages to our modern office in Grande Prairie for comprehensive dentistry. Contact us now to schedule your routine dental exams and cleanings to keep your mouth and body in the best shape possible!
Changing doctors is always a big decision, but if you’ve been dissatisfied after your most recent dental checkups, it may be time to switch dentists. Perhaps you have concerns about insurance and financing, you’ve moved and the office is no longer convenient, or maybe the level of care has not met your expectations. No matter what your reason, here’s how to switch dentists without any lapses in your oral health care.
Signs Indicating It May Be Time to Switch Dentists
Not only do your personal and financial circumstances change over time, but your teeth change with age, too. You may require a new specialist to meet your current dental needs, or maybe you want a second opinion on a recommended treatment.
Here are some common signs that it might be time to look for a new dentist:
Your dentist is retiring
You’ve moved to a different area
Your dentist no longer accepts your insurance
Your dentist’s appointment schedules are inconvenient
You are not comfortable with the treatment plan your dentist has recommended
You are not happy with the quality of treatments you receive
How Do I Switch Dentists?
Making the switch can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can make it easier to find a new dentist as soon as possible.
1. Do Your Research
Finding the right dentist requires a bit of research. Start by searching your area for offices with convenient locations. When you’re ready to switch dentists, make sure the new practice offers the services you want. Do you have little ones? Then look for an office offering family dentistry and services like orthodontics.
Once you’ve found a dentist accepting new patients, read reviews from other patients to see what you can expect. It’s also a good idea to visit the dentist before making an appointment to check out their facilities and dental technology.
2. Notify Your Old Dentist
When you’ve picked a new dentist, notify your old one that you’re leaving them. This step is not a necessity but rather a courtesy.
Plus, when you switch dentists, you will need to transfer your old dental records to the new practice. Notifying your old dentist can expedite this process.
3. Visit Your New Dentist
Once the new dentist has all the necessary dental records, they are ready to see you. You can schedule your first appointment and visit the office. If you’ve chosen the right dentist for your needs, you will have a comfortable visit and a healthier smile.
Meet Your New Dentist in Grand Prairie
Now that you know how to switch dentists, you can find a new practice and receive the dental care you need.
If you want to switch dentists in Grande Prairie, Dr. Guirguis and his team at Definitive Dental are accepting new patients. We offer a full range of preventative and restorative services, and we work with you to maximize your insurance benefits or find financing options that fit your budget. Call us at (972) 646-0660 or contact us through our website to schedule your appointment and enhance your smile at Definitive Dental.
Dental cleanings are an integral part of our oral health and are typically recommended twice a year. Keeping our teeth and gums free and clear of harmful bacteria is important. At Definitive Dental, our team is proud to offer general dental treatments, like dental cleanings, in Grande Prairie. We strive to provide quality services for our patients, and we always make sure that our patients are relaxed and comfortable during their visits.
However, some patients have asked us if having their teeth cleaned regularly can damage the enamel on our teeth. We hope that this article can help address this common concern and show why dental cleanings are safe.
Why Are Dental Cleanings Beneficial?
Dental cleanings every six months offer numerous benefits. These include:
When a dental hygienist cleans your teeth, they remove plaque and tartar that have accumulated. Plaque is the soft film that forms on your teeth after you eat, and tartar is the hardened form of plaque. Plaque is an acidic substance that can damage your teeth enamel and eventually cause cavities and gingivitis (gum disease), which can lead to tooth loss, if you don’t remove it by brushing, flossing, and getting regular dental cleanings. Note that over time, any plaque you don’t remove from your teeth turns into tartar, and only your dental hygienist can remove this.
Dental cleanings are particularly helpful for removing built-up wine, tea, coffee, and tobacco stains. This will leave your pearly whites looking brighter. Cleanings will also help you to maintain an odor-free and healthy mouth. And because a connection exists between your overall health and dental health, dental cleanings might reduce your risk of a stroke or heart disease.
Can Dental Cleanings Harm Teeth Enamel?
Dental cleanings are safe, as they do not damage the enamel on your teeth! There are some myths about dental cleanings online. Here are three of the most common ones we encounter.
Myth: Hygienists scrape away enamel
Some people mistakenly believe this because they hear their dental hygienist scrape and scratch off plaque and tartar from the surfaces of their teeth. The harder your tartar is, the more aggressively your hygienist will need to scrape.
However, your enamel is highly durable because it is composed of mostly minerals. Think of how many thousands of times your teeth bite down in a year — they’re pretty tough! As a matter of fact, your enamel is your body’s hardest substance; it is even harder than bone. For this reason, a dental cleaning won’t damage your teeth enamel.
Myth: Dental chemicals damage teeth
Some dental patients also worry that the chemicals used on teeth after dental cleanings may weaken their enamel. For instance, your dental hygienist will polish your teeth with pumice, a gritty, sandpaper-like substance that removes stains and smooths your teeth’s surface. Your hygienist may then apply fluoride to your teeth in the form of a rinse or varnish to strengthen the teeth enamel and help to prevent cavities. Both fluoride and tooth polish are safe. In light of this, you don’t have to worry about either of these chemicals causing damage to your teeth enamel.
Myth: Dental cleanings have harmful side effects
Note that some patients will experience some soreness around their gums following dental cleanings, but this is normal. Although rare, other side effects may include slight bleeding or an infection. However, none of these is a sign of damage to the enamel on your teeth. For this reason, dental cleanings are indeed safe.
The reality is cleanings safely remove the plaque and bacteria that build up over time both on the teeth and under the gums. If teeth are not cleaned regularly, inflammation can occur, and this can lead to gum disease as we mentioned earlier. Brushing at home is a great way to remove bacteria from the teeth, but brushing cannot clean our teeth like a professional cleaning can. Our practice’s certified hygienists provide quality cleanings according to best practices to keep your teeth and mouth healthy.
What Can Damage Teeth Enamel?
Although dental cleanings are safe, if teeth are cleaned improperly at home or by a non-professional, damage can occur to the enamel. For instance, you can harm your enamel if you use harsh brushing strokes while brushing your teeth at home.
Enamel can also wear off if patients suffer from bruxism, or teeth grinding. In addition, patients with a chronic form of acid reflux may experience enamel erosion.
Acidic foods (e.g., apples, rhubarb, berries) or drinks (e.g., soda, fruit juices) can further cause erosion to the enamel on your teeth. The same is true for starchy foods (white bread) and sugary foods (caramel, syrup, ice cream).
Finally, using certain medications, like aspirin and antihistamines, regularly may eventually damage your teeth enamel.
Remember, in any of these cases, we are talking about damage over time. Grinding your teeth once will not cause extensive damage, but years of grinding can have an adverse effect.
If you have concerns about the condition of the enamel on your teeth, please let our team know when you schedule your appointment.
What Should I Expect During my Cleaning Appointment?
Dental cleanings in our office typically take anywhere from 30-45 minutes. Each cleaning appointment consists of the following steps:
During the oral examination, X-rays are taken if needed and carefully reviewed to help our team to provide a customized treatment plan for each patient.
Next, our skilled hygienists use dental scalers to carefully remove the hard layer of plaque from a patient’s teeth. We ensure that your mouth is free of any plaque or bacteria without causing damage to the teeth enamel. Our staff will discuss the health of your teeth and gums and will recommend further treatment if needed.
The next step involves polishing the teeth with pumice as we mentioned earlier. This is done to remove residual tartar following scaling. Afterward, your hygienist will floss your pearly whites to remove residual plaque and paste.
Your dental hygienist will then rinse your mouth with water to remove tartar residue. Finally, they will place fluoride paste or foamy gel on your teeth using a mouthpiece, and they’ll also paint fluoride varnish on your teeth. This will further protect your teeth against cavities.
What Happens If I Delay Cleanings?
Your oral health is extremely important to us, and we encourage our patients to keep up with regularly scheduled dental cleanings to keep their teeth looking and feeling great. Regular dental cleanings are a great way to prevent future issues, and they won’t cause damage to your teeth enamel.
If you put off cleanings too long, you may end up developing bigger dental problems, like periodontal disease (an advanced form of gingivitis), and these are costlier to fix compared with regular dental cleanings. Dental exams allow us to catch any potential issues early and prevent serious issues from developing.
Protect Yourself Against Teeth Enamel Damage with Help from Definitive Dental
If you are looking for a dentist in Grande Prairie, contact Dr. Peter Guirguis for your next dental cleaning. Our dental cleanings are safe and won’t cause damage to your teeth enamel, as our hygienists are highly trained on how to gently deliver stellar cleaning results.
We also take pride in offering exceptional service in a family-friendly environment. Our hundreds of five-star reviews prove our commitment to service. We also offer a unique Pain-Free Guarantee: We will stop at any time during a procedure to give you more numbing gel if needed. Your comfort is our top priority. Always.
Our staff are available to answer any questions you may have, and we welcome all new patients to our office. If you are interested in scheduling your next dental cleaning with us, please contact Definitive Dental, and one of our staff members will be happy to assist you. Set up an appointment by calling or texting our office at (972) 646-0660 or reaching out via our contact form today!
Frequently Asked Questions: Definitive Dental
What services do you offer?
Our services at Definitive Dental include not only dental cleanings but also dental fillings, root canals, dental crowns, teeth whitening, dental implants, and more! None of our procedures will cause damage to your teeth enamel or gums.
Do you accept my insurance?
We take all PPOs as well as children’s Medicaid. We’ll help you to get the most out of your dental insurance for your covered dental procedures.
What if I don’t have insurance?
No worries. We offer a dental membership plan where we provide you with comprehensive oral care at affordable prices. The plan includes preventive dental care services, including two cleanings per year, two exams per year, two fluoride treatments per year, routine X-rays, and even one emergency exam per year, at no extra cost.
How soon can I schedule a dental appointment?
At Definitive Dental, prospective patients can expect a callback on the same day, usually within a few hours of filling out a form on our site.
Why should I choose you as my family dentist?
We pride ourselves on genuinely listening to our patients and providing high-level care. We are affiliated with both the Texas Dental Association and the American Dental Association, so you can rest assured that our procedures, like dental cleanings, are safe and won’t damage your teeth enamel.
