tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3290506971926302242024-03-05T16:50:16.253-08:00Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIDr. Jeffrey Kravitz, DDS, DICOI, and his dental treatment team are pleased to provide professional and caring dental services to their patients from Wakefield MA and the surrounding communities. Our dental services include: adult, children's, cosmetic, family, general, implant, preventive, restorative and sedation dentistry. Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.comBlogger204125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-90407580861038985102020-11-24T07:00:00.001-08:002020-11-24T07:00:02.420-08:00Types of Mouth Viruses and Bacteria<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6R0P2fPYhm8Qgx6ya9oerJeuHiBb6zd2A4T-cPFLGUZ8_6Peuxr_eGLdRYeV8apDeAEqUMn2rPW9Kw-ud-7MV2A6hyphenhyphenTsIzp4KjsEM-okkEl257jDnXtfnVp_SMVopZOU5wI8n0TAgAg0/s1000/mouth_viruses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="617" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6R0P2fPYhm8Qgx6ya9oerJeuHiBb6zd2A4T-cPFLGUZ8_6Peuxr_eGLdRYeV8apDeAEqUMn2rPW9Kw-ud-7MV2A6hyphenhyphenTsIzp4KjsEM-okkEl257jDnXtfnVp_SMVopZOU5wI8n0TAgAg0/s320/mouth_viruses.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Mouth bacteria and viruses can lead to a number of oral health issues if not treated properly. Tooth decay, gum disease, and mouth sores are only a few of the conditions that may occur when an infection takes root. Learn more about the different viral and bacterial infections that may affect your tongue and mouth and what you can do to prevent them.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Common Bacterial and Viral Mouth Infections </b></div><div>Bacterial and viral infections on the tongue and mouth are relatively common, and in most cases can be taken care of with proper diagnosis and treatment. Several infections that may affect the mouth and tongue include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Tonsil Stones – Also known as Tonsilloliths, are bacterial infections that affect your tonsils. </li><li>White Tongue – A condition where the lingual papillae on the tongue swell up and trap bacteria and food debris. </li><li>Oral Thrush – A fungal infection affecting the tongue and throat. </li><li>Coxsackie Virus – Most common in children, this mouth virus can cause painful blisters. </li><li>Strawberry Tongue Virus - Not a condition on its own but it can be a sign of a more serious underlying disorder. </li><li>Herpangina Virus – Another strain of the Coxsackie Virus, this mouth virus causes painful, red ulcers to form inside the mouth. </li></ul></div><div><b>What are Tonsil Stones?</b></div><div>Tonsils are the gland-like structures located in the back of your throat. Their main role is to help support your immune system by keeping any viral and bacterial infections from entering into your throat. However, this may not be case for some people. </div><div><br /></div><div>Tonsil stones occur when bacteria and other debris combine together and get stuck in the nooks of the tonsils. If the trapped debris hardens, it turns into tonsil stones. </div><div><br /></div><div>Common symptoms of tonsil stones include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Inflammation or swelling of the tonsil</li><li>Sore throat</li><li>Painful swallowing</li><li>Persistent cough caused by the irritation from the stone</li><li>Pain in the ear because of the nerve pathways involved</li><li>White-like debris at the back of the throat </li><li>Bad breath caused by the sulfur gases which get trapped in the tonsils</li></ul></div><div>In most cases, tonsil stones may be able to go away on their own. However, in instances where the stone has grown too large, medical treatment may be necessary:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Surgery may be required to remove the stones</li><li>More severe or persistent cases may require surgical removal of the tonsils themselves, this is known as a Tonsillectomy</li><li>Antibiotics to lessen the infection </li><li>Saltwater rinse for smaller tonsil stones</li></ul></div><div>You can help prevent tonsil stones from forming by following a thorough oral care routine. The more bacteria you remove from your mouth, the less can get trapped in the tonsils. Regular brushing and flossing and rinsing with mouthwash after meals can remove the bacteria and debris that may lead to tonsil stones. </div><div><br /></div><div>For people with chronic tonsil stones, it is often best to have the tonsils removed surgically to prevent the infection.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is White Tongue? </b></div><div>White tongue is a condition that causes the tongue to take on a white-like hue. Lingual papillae are the small structures on the tongue’s surface that give your tongue it’s rough texture. When the papillae swell up they can trap more bacteria and debris, resulting in an appearance. </div><div><br /></div><div>One of the more common causes of white tongue is a lack of oral hygiene, other causes may include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Dehydration or dry mouth, a lack of moisture in the mouth can promote bacteria</li><li>Smoking or alcohol use which can dry out and irritate the mouth</li><li>Mouth irritations caused by braces or dentures</li></ul></div><div>The best way to prevent white patches from forming on your tongue is to maintain a consistent oral care routine. Twice daily brushing and flossing at least once can help remove bacteria and keep the mouth clean. Rinsing with an alcohol-free mouthwash can further reduce the amount of debris in the mouth and promote a healthy tongue. To further remove bacteria on the tongue, a tongue scraper can help. Some toothbrushes come with a tongue cleaning feature to easily incorporate the step into your daily oral hygiene routine. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is Oral Thrush?</b></div><div>Candida is a fungal organism that’s normally occurring in the mouth, however, if it overgrows it can cause a condition known as oral thrush. The most common symptom of oral thrush is the spread of white lesions on the tongue, cheeks, palette, tonsils, gums, and back of the throat. These lesions can be cottage cheese-like in appearance and may bleed when irritated. The lesions can be painful and turn red, making it difficult to swallow or eat. </div><div><br /></div><div>Usually people with weakened immune systems are most prone to oral thrush. Maintaining a healthy diet, regular checkups with your doctor and dental professional, and a thorough oral care routine can help prevent the fungal infection from spreading. </div><div><br /></div><div>To further reduce your risk of contracting a candida infection be sure to:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Brush your teeth at least two times a day </li><li>Floss a minimum of once a day</li><li>Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash </li><li>Limit your sugar intake</li><li>Clean your dentures daily if you wear them</li></ul></div><div>Your doctor or dental professional may recommend a form of antifungal medication to treat a candida infection. It’s important to see your healthcare provider if you suspect oral thrush. Early treatment can help reduce the chances of the infection spreading from the mouth into the throat, which can lead to more serious health complications. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is Foot and Mouth Virus?</b></div><div>Hand, foot, and mouth disease, also known as Coxsackie Virus, often affects children under the age of 10. The viral infection causes a rash of blisters to form in and around the mouth, feet, and hands. These blisters are often accompanied by a runny nose, sore throat, fever, and poor appetite. </div><div><br /></div><div>The infection usually goes away on its own after about a week or so, and can be treated with proper oral hydration. A good oral hygiene routine can help, along with plenty of handwashing to help limit the spread. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is Strawberry Tongue?</b></div><div>Strawberry tongue on its own is not a condition, but rather a symptom of an underlying condition or disease. The term “strawberry tongue” refers specifically to the tongue’s appearance—red, bumpy, and swollen. Strawberry tongue is often characterized by enlarged taste buds and an overly rough texture. </div><div>Conditions that can cause strawberry tongue include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Allergies from foods or drugs</li><li>Scarlet Fever a bacterial infection as a result of strep throat</li><li>Kawasaki Disease which causes inflamed arteries, mostly affecting children</li><li>Vitamin B deficiencies </li><li>Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) a life-threatening infection that requires immediate medical attention</li></ul></div><div>It’s important to see your medical professional to diagnose the cause of your strawberry tongue for proper treatment. In some cases, strawberry tongue may be a part of a serious health problem and can lead to complications on your overall health. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is Herpangina? </b></div><div>The herpangina virus is very similar to foot and mouth disease. The viral infection tends to affect children more often than adults and results in small blisters or ulcers along the top of the mouth and back of the throat. </div><div>Common symptoms of herpangina include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Neck pain</li><li>Swollen lymph nodes</li><li>Loss of appetite</li><li>Fever</li><li>Headache </li><li>Difficulty swallowing </li></ul></div><div>Additionally, infants with the herpangina virus may experience bouts of excessive drooling and vomiting. Since herpangina is viral and not bacterial, antibiotics will not work as treatment. Rather, your medical professional will determine which course of treatment is best based on age and severity of symptoms, though pain management is often a requirement. </div><div><br /></div><div>Though mouthwash can’t treat viral infections, it can help soothe mouth sores by flushing out plaque bacteria. Alcohol-free rinses like <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/products/mouthwash/crest-pro-health-advanced-multi-protection-alcohol-free">Crest Pro-Health Advanced Multi-Protection Mouthwash</a> can help promote a cleaner mouth by removing more food and plaque bacteria from the mouth without causing extra irritation—however, it is not recommended for children under 6. </div><div><br /></div><div>A therapeutic rinse composed of salt and warm water is based for children. The rinse can help to safely relieve some of the pain caused by the infection in the mouth and throat. </div><div><br /></div><div>In addition to a rinse, plenty of hydration is often recommended for recovery. It is also best to keep away from overly hot or acidic drinks as they can irritate the ulcers and cause symptoms to worsen. </div><div><br /></div><div>Herpangina usually lasts for about a week but if symptoms persist it is crucial to see your doctor right away. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Preventing Spread of Bacterial Infections</b></div><div>A good hygiene routine is best when it comes to the prevention of bacterial oral infections. </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Wash hands thoroughly </li><li>Brush teeth at least twice a day or after meals to remove more plaque bacteria from the teeth, gums, and tongue</li><li>Switch to an electric toothbrush to ensure a more complete clean, the unique round brush heads on Oral-B electric toothbrushes surround each tooth for 100% more plaque removal than a manual</li><li>Use a fluoride toothpaste like <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/products/compare/crest-toothpaste#Future_Proof">Crest Pro-Health which neutralizes plaque bacteria for all day protection</a></li><li>Floss daily to get rid of any trapped food that can lead to bacterial growth in the mouth</li><li>Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash to get rid of bacteria and keep the mouth clean</li><li>See your dental professional every six months for professional cleanings and checkups</li></ul></div><div>Viral and bacterial mouth infections can affect your oral health as well as your overall health. Be sure to maintain a thorough routine to keep your smile healthy and see your medical professional in the event where symptoms are cause for concern. </div><div><br /></div><div>The above article is from <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-bacteria-and-virus-types">crest.com</a></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div></div>Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-89830162516725558512020-11-15T07:00:00.001-08:002020-11-15T07:00:04.779-08:00Why You Might Want A Tooth Bridge Over Implants<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXN7oeQPKqX_fU_D9G0ylXlroA4i1twdAdYgv8G7KlgMmYTkKWNvs1VESCYvSqPC8U1JndFr62IICrpzPdohyphenhyphenKnoAWNCMAYas-XeByrmfgwrvtb5xsOF9rs0OtyXD8Q1RPjgq3A4GPXXk/s640/dental_bridges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXN7oeQPKqX_fU_D9G0ylXlroA4i1twdAdYgv8G7KlgMmYTkKWNvs1VESCYvSqPC8U1JndFr62IICrpzPdohyphenhyphenKnoAWNCMAYas-XeByrmfgwrvtb5xsOF9rs0OtyXD8Q1RPjgq3A4GPXXk/s320/dental_bridges.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>If you have one or more missing teeth, it can be easy to develop oral health problems beyond tooth decay, such as speech impediments and even periodontal disease. A tooth bridge, also known as a dental bridge, provides the support you need to prevent surrounding teeth from loosening or moving out of their correct positions. But what is a bridge, and how does it differ from a tooth implant?</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What Is a Dental Bridge?</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>A bridge is a fixed appliance fitted into the mouth to fill the gap caused by missing teeth, according to the <a href="https://osseo.org/patiented/NEWtoothReplacement.html">Academy of Osseointegration</a>. This bridge is cemented to the "abutment teeth" on either side of the gap, providing an anchor so that it can be attached to either your natural teeth or the crowns fitted over them. Your dentist places artificial "pontic teeth" onto the bridge, in the space between the abutment teeth.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>How They Differ from Implants</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Implants are posts made from screws or cylinders, inserted surgically through your gum into the jawbone. Prosthetic teeth are then mounted individually on each of these posts, explains the <a href="http://www.perio.org/consumer/dental-implants">American Academy of Periodontology (AAP)</a>, to take the place of natural teeth and prevent the problems commonly associated with dental gaps. Keep in mind fitting implants is a much more complex procedure that requires surgical training. If your teeth are in excellent condition, then you won't have to worry about placing crowns or fitting a bridge to them.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Reasons You Might Need a Tooth Bridge</b></div><div>Gaps of any size between your teeth can cause problems. For example:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The adjacent teeth begin to loosen, which causes them to shift out of their correct positions.</li><li>Loose teeth in children may complicate the eruption of permanent teeth, encouraging them to come through improperly.</li><li>Gaps and movement in teeth can affect your bite, according to <a href="http://www.drchippsdds.com/library/7711/LooseTeeth%26BiteProblems.html">Edward A Chipps, DDS</a>, creating issues for your jaw and hindering your ability to speak and chew.</li></ul></div><div>In the long term, a lack of dental support can cause other health issues as well, such as head- or earaches, as well as nose and throat irritation. This makes it important for patients to replace missing teeth as early as possible, rather than waiting to see whether problems go away on their own.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Types of Bridges</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Different types of tooth bridges require different methods of fitting. Traditional <a href="http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/Oral-and-Dental-Health-Basics/Checkups-and-Dental-Procedures/Crowns-Bridges/article/Bridges.cvsp">bridges</a> are typically made from porcelain or ceramic, and are fused to metal abutments. A cantilever bridge is supported on only one side of the gap. A bonded bridge is made from metal, and carries clips resembling wings on either side which are bonded to the back of the abutment teeth. This method often costs less than traditional bridges because the abutments don't always require crowns to cover them, but it may also be less secure than a traditional bridge.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Caring for Your Tooth Bridge</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Good oral hygiene is important at any time, but when you're wearing a fixed appliance such as a dental bridge, it's even more crucial. Caring for your bridge appropriately gives it a lifespan of up to 10 years, according to the <a href="http://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/procedures/bridges_dentures/bridges.asp">Canadian Dental Association</a>. Just as you need to brush natural teeth daily using an appropriate toothbrush like the <a href="http://www.colgate.com/app/Colgate360/US/EN/Home.cwsp">Colgate® 360°® Toothbrush</a>, which has multi-level bristles to remove more plaque in between teeth, you also need to clean your bridgework thoroughly and use dental floss between each tooth.</div><div> </div><div>Taking care of your bridge means taking care of your oral health. With this routine, you'll have the smile you want for as long as possible.</div><div><br /></div><div>The above article is from <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/bridges-and-crowns/why-you-might-want-a-tooth-bridge-over-implants-0515">colgate.com</a></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div></div>Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-71813178649649400482020-11-06T07:00:00.001-08:002020-11-06T07:00:05.747-08:00Halloween Candy: Your Dental Health Survival Guide<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0WoJw5iZ8kgJ_8POHj2kgZu8U1DA2UsyECwPaR-PCFlefMyLvK0HN2ngCs3thTcWO1r6j4iqbBbOYDYldSyYgC3Kvv9Fthiez5Krygw60vUw1oftyIXRjklKNhzrk7ePg-5OnTFoRtQ/s450/article_halloween_candy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0WoJw5iZ8kgJ_8POHj2kgZu8U1DA2UsyECwPaR-PCFlefMyLvK0HN2ngCs3thTcWO1r6j4iqbBbOYDYldSyYgC3Kvv9Fthiez5Krygw60vUw1oftyIXRjklKNhzrk7ePg-5OnTFoRtQ/s320/article_halloween_candy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>With Halloween comes ghosts, goblins and goodies—and the sugar in those treats can play some unwanted tricks on your teeth if you’re not careful. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here’s why: The bacteria in your mouth are probably more excited to eat Halloween candy than you are. When the bacteria eat the sugar and leftover food in your mouth, a weak acid is produced. That acid is what can contribute to cavities. </div><div><br /></div><div>But don’t hang up your costume just yet. “Halloween is about candy, dressing up and having fun,” says ADA dentist Dr. Ana Paula Ferraz-Dougherty. “It’s OK to eat that candy on Halloween as a splurge as long as you’re brushing twice a day and flossing once a day all year long.”</div><div><br /></div><div>To help you sort through the trick-or-treat bag loot, we have a rundown of some common candies and their impact on your teeth:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Chocolate</b></div><div>Chocolate is probably your best bet, which is good because it’s also one of the most popular kinds of candy handed out on Halloween. “Chocolate is one of the better candies because it washes off your teeth easier than other types of candy,” Dr. Ferraz- Dougherty says. “Dark chocolate also has less sugar than milk chocolate.”</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sticky and Gummy Candies</b></div><div>Be picky if it’s sticky. These are some of the worst candies for your teeth. “This candy is harder to remove and may stay longer on your teeth, which gives that cavity-causing bacteria more time to work,” Dr. Ferraz-Dougherty says.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Hard Candy</b></div><div>Hard candies are also ones to watch on Halloween. “They can actually break your teeth if you’re not careful,” Dr. Ferraz- Dougherty says. “You also tend to keep these kinds of candies in your mouth for longer periods of time so the sugar is getting in your saliva and washing over your teeth.”</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sour Candy</b></div><div>You might want to pass on things that make you pucker – especially if they are sticky and coated in sugar. “Sour candy can be very acidic,” says Dr. Ferraz-Dougherty. “And that acidity can weaken and damage the hard outer shell of your teeth, making your teeth more vulnerable to cavities.”</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Popcorn Balls</b></div><div>Have some floss handy if you’re enjoying one of these fall favorites. “Kernels can get stuck in-between your teeth," Dr. Ferraz-Dougherty says. "They are also sticky, sugary and can be hard.”</div><div><br /></div><div>The above article is from <a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/h/halloween-candy-survival-guide">mouthhealthy.org</a></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div></div>Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-59923967210844348482020-10-24T07:00:00.001-07:002020-10-24T07:00:03.798-07:003 Affordable Dentistry Options To Fix Your Smile And Boost Your Confidence<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-Jdj0R2Q4BYeY0MONo6e_OlGYaHUKTlm2SiK-2rvueqNh5piUs10yb2yHYh5NnvAsVvTZAScde83fdFnawS6wqDup8JIGWdMQObFA-kdOBzsADah1jPKtH6lte8kibIx5tzbf4CIUnw/s640/3_affordable+denstistry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-Jdj0R2Q4BYeY0MONo6e_OlGYaHUKTlm2SiK-2rvueqNh5piUs10yb2yHYh5NnvAsVvTZAScde83fdFnawS6wqDup8JIGWdMQObFA-kdOBzsADah1jPKtH6lte8kibIx5tzbf4CIUnw/s320/3_affordable+denstistry.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>How your smile looks plays a big role in how you feel about yourself and how you think others perceive you. As the <a href="http://yoursmilebecomesyou.com/procedures/teeth-whitening/" target="_blank">American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry</a> (AACD) notes, about 74 percent of people believe that an unattractive smile can get in the way of career success and nearly 100 percent of people believe a smile is an important social asset.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span></div><div><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span></div><div>You may not like showing off your smile if you think your teeth are too yellow, crooked or chipped. Fortunately, you have a number of affordable dentistry options that can help improve your smile and boost your confidence. At your next visit, talk to your dentist about ways to correct any issues with your teeth and how much you can expect each option to cost.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>1. Get Your Teeth Whitened</b></div><div>People's teeth yellow or become darker for a variety of reasons. It could be due to a diet of foods that stain, such as coffee, chocolate and berries. It could be due to the enamel becoming thinner as you age and the yellower dentin showing through. Some people are born with teeth that are naturally yellow or slightly gray. If you decide you do want to whiten your teeth, you have multiple options, ranging from at-home treatments to treatments performed at your dentist's office.</div><div><br /></div><div>The cost of teeth whitening varies based on location and the type of product used. As the <a href="http://www.yourdentistryguide.com/professional-whitening/" target="_blank">Consumer Guide to Dentistry</a> points out, an in-office treatment costs an average of $650.</div><div><br /></div><div>At-home treatments tend to be the more affordable dentistry option, but the results you get from an in-office treatment are often much more dramatic and last longer. For example, the AACD points out that an in-office whitening treatment can lighten your teeth up to 10 shades in one hour, and the results can last for a year or longer, provided you take good care of your teeth. After a tooth whitening procedure, it's a good time to switch to a whitening toothpaste, such as <a href="http://www.colgateopticwhite.com/whitening-toothpaste" target="_blank">Colgate® Optic White</a>® to maintain your dazzling teeth.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>2. Fix Chips and Cracks with Bonding</b></div><div>If you have a chipped or cracked tooth, or a tooth that needs a filling, <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/bonding" target="_blank">dental bonding</a> is often an affordable way to fix it. Dental bonding is typically made of either a composite resin or porcelain. The material can be dyed to match the natural color of your teeth, so you end up with a tooth that looks good as new and no one will be able to tell that you've had work done.</div><div><br /></div><div>Bonding is one of the least expensive dental restoration options, too. While porcelain veneers can cost up to $1,500 per tooth, the average cost of dental bonding is $300 to $600 per tooth. The drawback of bonding is that it might not last as long as veneers, which are used to correct severely discolored or chipped teeth. If you are looking for a budget-friendly way to correct a damaged tooth, bonding may be the way to go.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>3. Use a Retainer to Straighten Teeth</b></div><div>Not everyone with crooked or misaligned teeth needs braces. Typically, people wear retainers after they have braces removed to keep their teeth from moving out of position. But, if you have a small space between two teeth or your bite is slightly misaligned, you might be able to wear a <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/early-orthodontics/how-to-straighten-teeth-without-braces-0914" target="_blank">retainer without getting braces</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>An aligner, a clear plastic tray that fits over the teeth and helps push them into place or straighten them, can be another alternative to braces. Aligners are more expensive than retainers (for example, <a href="http://www.invisalign.com/cost" target="_blank">Invisalign</a>® can cost between $3,000 and $8,000 while a retainer on its own typically costs between $500 and $1,000, as the <a href="http://www.yourdentistryguide.com/dental-retainers/" target="_blank">Consumer Dentistry Guide</a> notes). But, aligners do a lot more than retainers when it comes to correcting crooked teeth, which can make the higher cost worth it.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you're not happy with your smile, you don't have to live with it! Schedule an appointment with your dentist today and learn more about what you can do to fix your smile.</div><div><br /></div><div>The above article is from <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/basics/dental-visits/3-affordable-dentistry-options-to-fix-your-smile-and-boost-your-confidence-0716">colgate.com</a></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div></div>Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-72862098007004177742020-10-15T07:00:00.003-07:002020-10-15T07:00:06.021-07:00Whitening: 5 Things to Know About Getting a Brighter Smile<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXoalJRNUbimvWzs-scOce2VcggLr5dcXZQytFbGq61AS82-fPOD40175Bz0SKgIG4uNorBTzmTbB7xsJOgmENKmNdmF-0aBr0W1a7e4vi05cpKVJvaUJRCPLivBPxyhXIhyJAQ7Wrot4/s500/teeth_whitening.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="334" data-original-width="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXoalJRNUbimvWzs-scOce2VcggLr5dcXZQytFbGq61AS82-fPOD40175Bz0SKgIG4uNorBTzmTbB7xsJOgmENKmNdmF-0aBr0W1a7e4vi05cpKVJvaUJRCPLivBPxyhXIhyJAQ7Wrot4/s320/teeth_whitening.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/brushing-your-teeth" target="_blank">Brushing</a> and <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/f/flossing" target="_blank">flossing</a> are everyday ways to keep your teeth bright, white and healthy. Still, if you might feel like your smile is lacking some sparkle or is more yellow than it used to be, you’re not alone. When the <a href="http://www.aacd.com/" target="_blank">American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry</a> asked people what they’d most like to improve about their smile, the most common response was whiter teeth. The <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23540638" target="_blank">American Association of Orthodontists</a> also found that nearly 90% of patients requested tooth whitening. </div><div> </div><div>Thinking about teeth whitening? Get the facts first. Here are five of the most commonly asked questions about the process. </div><div> </div><div><b>Why Did My Teeth Change Color?</b></div><div>Over time, your teeth can go from white to not-so-bright for a number of reasons:</div><div> </div><div><b>Food and Drink</b></div><div>Coffee, tea and red wine are some major staining culprits. What do they have in common? Intense color pigments called chromogens that attach to the white, outer part of your tooth (<a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/t/tooth" target="_blank">enamel</a>).</div><div> </div><div><b>Tobacco Use</b></div><div>Two chemicals found in <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/smoking-and-tobacco" target="_blank">tobacco</a> create stubborn stains: Tar and nicotine. Tar is naturally dark. Nicotine is colorless until it’s mixed with oxygen. Then, it turns into a yellowish, surface-staining substance. </div><div> </div><div><b>Age</b></div><div>Below the hard, white outer shell of your teeth (enamel) is a softer area called <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/t/tooth" target="_blank">dentin</a>. Over time, the outer enamel layer gets thinner with brushing and more of the yellowish dentin shows through.</div><div> </div><div><b>Trauma</b></div><div>If you’ve been hit in the mouth, your tooth may change color because it reacts to an injury by laying down more dentin, which is a darker layer under the enamel. </div><div> </div><div><b>Medications</b></div><div>Tooth darkening can be a side effect of certain antihistamines, antipsychotics and high blood pressure medications. Young children who are exposed to antibiotics like tetracycline and doxycycline when their teeth are forming (either in the womb or as a baby) may have discoloration of their adult teeth later in life. <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/c/cancer-during-treatment" target="_blank">Chemotherapy</a> and head and neck radiation can also darken teeth.</div><div> </div><div><b>How Does Teeth Whitening Work?</b></div><div>Teeth whitening is a simple process. Whitening products contain one of two tooth bleaches (hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide). These bleaches break stains into smaller pieces, which makes the color less concentrated and your teeth brighter.</div><div> </div><div><b>Does Whitening Work on All Teeth?</b></div><div>No, which is why it’s important to talk to your dentist before deciding to whiten your teeth, as whiteners may not correct all types of discoloration. For example, yellow teeth will probably bleach well, brown teeth may not respond as well and teeth with gray tones may not bleach at all. Whitening will not work on caps, <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/v/veneers" target="_blank">veneers</a>, <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/c/Crowns" target="_blank">crowns</a> or <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/f/Fillings-Tooth-colored" target="_blank">fillings</a>. It also won’t be effective if your tooth discoloration is caused by <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/m/medications-and-oral-health" target="_blank">medications</a> or a <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/dental-care-concerns/dental-emergencies/" target="_blank">tooth injury</a>.</div><div> </div><div><b>What Are My Whitening Options?</b></div><div>Talk to your dentist before starting. If you are a candidate, there are four ways to put the shine back in your smile:</div><div> </div><div><b>Stain Removal Toothpastes</b></div><div>All toothpastes help remove surface stain through the action of mild abrasives that scrub the teeth. Look for whitening toothpastes that have earned the <a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/ada-seal-products" target="_blank">ADA Seal of Acceptance</a> for <a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/ada-seal-products/category-display?attributes=Stain+Removal" target="_blank">stain removal</a> (it will tell you on the package). These toothpastes have additional polishing agents that are safe for your teeth and provide stain removal effectiveness. Unlike bleaches, these types of ADA-Accepted products do not change the color of teeth because they can only remove stains on the surface.</div><div> </div><div><b>In-Office Bleaching </b></div><div>This procedure is called <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lugq2cMttUo" target="_blank">chairside bleaching</a> and usually requires only one office visit. The dentist will apply either a protective gel to your gums or a rubber shield to protect your gums. Bleach is then applied to the teeth.</div><div> </div><div><b>At-Home Bleaching from Your Dentist</b></div><div>Your dentist can provide you with a custom-made tray for at-home whitening. In this case, the dentist will give you instructions on how to place the bleaching solution in the tray and for what length of time. This may be a preferred option if you feel more comfortable whitening in your own home at a slower pace, but still with the guidance of a dentist. Out-of-office bleaching can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. </div><div> </div><div><b>Over-the-Counter Bleaching Products</b></div><div>You may see different options online or in your local grocery store, such as toothpastes or strips that whiten by bleaching your teeth. The concentration of the bleaching agent in these products is lower than what your dentist would use in the office. If you are thinking about using an over-the-counter bleaching kit, discuss options with your dentist and look for one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. That means it has been tested to be safe and effective for teeth whitening. <a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/ada-seal-products/category-display?category=Bleaching+Products" target="_blank">Get a list of all ADA-Accepted at-home bleaching products</a>.</div><div> </div><div><b>Are There Any Side Effects from Teeth Whitening?</b></div><div>Some people who use teeth whiteners may experience <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/sensitive-teeth" target="_blank">tooth sensitivity</a>. That happens when the peroxide in the whitener gets through the enamel to the soft layer of dentin and irritates the nerve of your tooth. In most cases the sensitivity is temporary. You can delay treatment, then try again.</div><div>Overuse of whiteners can also damage the tooth enamel or gums, so be sure to follow directions and talk to your dentist.</div><div><br /></div><div>The above article is from <a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/w/whitening">mouthhealthy.org</a></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div></div>Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-42800222354200889242020-10-05T16:00:00.001-07:002020-10-05T16:00:08.272-07:00Thumb Sucking: Pictures of Effects Thumb Sucking has on Teeth<div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5SkS6iwXQKUJTaQM7ya2SFWgbw9kLMvSCwm5NCXjIe3aR02tz192PYifHVhCYFt27eAv7FyHz8H6CoEXhrY4ZHRW0XfI_nNqM-xvaElbjHcJbRQO_t65d5GVSLmW1RURgSSXEbDJ1Wt4/s700/Thumb+sucking_article_Main_pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="700" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5SkS6iwXQKUJTaQM7ya2SFWgbw9kLMvSCwm5NCXjIe3aR02tz192PYifHVhCYFt27eAv7FyHz8H6CoEXhrY4ZHRW0XfI_nNqM-xvaElbjHcJbRQO_t65d5GVSLmW1RURgSSXEbDJ1Wt4/s320/Thumb+sucking_article_Main_pic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div>What Is Thumb Sucking?</b></div><div>Thumb sucking is a common and natural behavior for infants. The pressure and sucking motion can make children feel more secure, calm them, and help them fall asleep. Children normally turn to thumb sucking when bored, tired, or upset. If your child is five years old or younger, it is not necessary to force them to quit. Most children will eventually give up this habit in their own time. One in five children will be sucking their thumb or finger past their fifth birthday.</div><div><span id="docs-internal-guid-fad5d9ea-7fff-c091-a400-969335a52dc2" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 124px; overflow: hidden; width: 346px;"><img alt="Thumb sucking past five" height="124" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/gejUDS1asarFZD0ilW3TYfF8FANEfsTY8GzNX4A4co_lTK2keWtHD_6LaEhHT6iw7VAjx8hfqeKQBjFbYT8A3HrDi5xG_2wKTQsrD8YmFPxYHZwpl5-AkpTjYBFWGAHaDCr1fQEL" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" title="Thumb sucking past five" width="346" /></span></span></span></div><div><b>How Can Thumb Sucking Affect My Child’s Teeth? </b></div><div>If your child’s thumb sucking persists past the age of five, it can have a lasting effect on your child’s teeth. Thumb sucking can cause problems with the proper growth of the mouth, alignment of the teeth, or changes in the roof of the mouth. The intensity of the sucking is a factor that will determine whether or not dental problems may result. For example, some children simply rest their thumbs passively in their mouths as opposed to sucking. This type of behavior is less likely to result in dental problems in contrasts to vigorous sucking. Thumb sucking may also cause your child to develop speech problems. <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/kids/toddler-tooth-decay" target="_blank">Your child’s dentist</a> may recommend inserting a fixed or removable device such as a “palatal bar” or “crib” in your child’s mouth to prevent sucking. However, there are other methods parents can try at home to rid their child’s habit.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>How to Stop Thumb Sucking</b></div><div>Breaking a longstanding habit is challenging and can take six weeks or more. Before attempting to stop your child from thumb sucking, it is important to observe their behavior to fully understand why and when your child sucks their thumb. Be aware of activities that might promote thumb sucking such as TV or car rides. If you can identify the times when your child is most likely to suck their thumb, provide alternative activities to divert their attention. Reprimanding your child for thumb sucking will not help and could prolong the problem.</div><div><span id="docs-internal-guid-cc6d404b-7fff-4258-0af9-6140fa10dde8" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 162px; overflow: hidden; width: 353px;"><img alt="TV or car rides" height="162" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/k_tiviX4TqDHpRiEPse-oj8eSCGxpkmb8FmnQxS_rtTubcsS6p49wpYAbtQFzd-MexE737YIklxM8cCaDLCHoQkqHUoA_OWcyapHPRmeyLNx2QvEcE5jEqPI4BV2JaYwVoAvQtR5" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" title="TV or car rides" width="353" /></span></span></span></div><div>Parents can use a simple behavioral approach that engages their child in the process. </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>First, create a progress chart with the help of your child. It's a good idea to let your child help make it fun by helping to pick a color or the kinds of stickers used to track their progress.</li><li>Have a discussion with your child to determine how many slip-ups should allowed each week.</li><li>Provide a reward at the end of each week of no thumb or finger sucking. Make a larger reward for getting to the end of a month of no thumb or finger sucking.</li></ul></div><div>If the above behavioral approach doesn't work, another method parents can try is placing a bitter-tasting liquid on the nail, but not directly on the finger. This should only be done at night to discourage thumb sucking while sleeping. Parents can also use mittens, gloves, or a finger-splint to be worn at night to discourage thumb and finger sucking.</div><div><span id="docs-internal-guid-5cc1a42b-7fff-06a9-3339-259f12c27a2c" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 118px; overflow: hidden; width: 381px;"><img alt="Thumb sucking progress" height="118" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/yMXLrOH8Ol9j8O_VNTcveVpTGKOJVPJvAavtN0q0cs38LHiYkFZ2O6bKD8d7FKg7bOHT4eOZ0QJl4e-S2kl9MqMZ2OOqeEKbN17avuSAlZ4cNOCIhA7NmeqmDOC-nnO3nOkaRybV" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" title="Thumb sucking progress" width="381" /></span></span></span></div><div>Please remember with enough persistence and positive reinforcement, most children are able drop the thumb-sucking habit. It may take a while, but if you keep at it, you'll see the results you want over time.</div><div><br /></div><div>The above article is from <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/kids/thumb-sucking">crest.com</a></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><br /></div>Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-42481894128843304522020-09-24T07:00:00.001-07:002020-09-24T07:00:07.499-07:00Travel: Is Dental Care Abroad Safe?<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3bO03hmt2HSKFMz3Lnm4xGnRpZXj7DFBA4jXQEyLOusZmyUPAjM_Z38UeTR2ez2iB3XRmeB-P7KBUW-HSq-W-t-97RHgU7kc0xpNWsQ7gel7M4t0sQV_A8zVAidDjrdgB3LzBU8GHTX0/s500/travel_dental+care.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="334" data-original-width="500" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3bO03hmt2HSKFMz3Lnm4xGnRpZXj7DFBA4jXQEyLOusZmyUPAjM_Z38UeTR2ez2iB3XRmeB-P7KBUW-HSq-W-t-97RHgU7kc0xpNWsQ7gel7M4t0sQV_A8zVAidDjrdgB3LzBU8GHTX0/w320-h214/travel_dental+care.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>If you are planning a trip out of the country it may be helpful to schedule a dental checkup before you leave, especially if you'll be traveling in developing countries or remote areas without access to good dental care. If you’re considering a vacation outside the United States for dental treatment in an attempt to save money, often referred to as "dental tourism," there are some things you should first consider. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Question: Is dental care abroad safe? </b></div><div><b>Answer</b>: The procedures, equipment and drugs used by dentists in the U.S. are held to high standards. The <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/">U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a> has comprehensive guidelines on infection control procedures for dental health-care settings. They exist to prevent the spread of infections, including blood borne illnesses such as hepatitis and AIDS. U.S. dentists must abide by regulations for radiation safety (X-ray equipment and its use) and for proper disposal of biomedical waste. Also, the drugs and dental instruments and materials used by dentists in the U.S. are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to ensure that they are safe. These standards are in place for your safety. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Q: What recovery time and follow-up care will I need? </b></div><div><b>A</b>: Many dental procedures are surgical in nature and may require months of healing. This should be factored in to your travel plans. Significant dental procedures require follow-up care to make sure everything is healing and functioning properly. Post treatment risks after dental surgical procedures include bleeding, pain, swelling and infection. Continuity of care is important and should be a consideration when making treatment decisions. Establishing a "dental home" provides you with comprehensive oral health care so conditions such as gum disease and tooth decay can be diagnosed at an early stage when treatment is simpler and more affordable. A dentist who knows your case history can provide you with guidance on good oral health habits, preventive oral health services and diagnosis and treatment of dental disease based on your individual needs. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Q: What qualifications are required of dental professionals? </b></div><div><b>A</b>: Dentists trained in the U.S. graduate from a dental school accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation. In addition, dentists must pass national examinations and meet state requirements before they earn a license to practice. Similar levels of training may exist in the country to which you are travelling, but this may be difficult to determine if that country does not have similar dental regulations. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Q: Will my insurance cover dental procedures in other countries? </b></div><div><b>A</b>: If you have insurance for dental care performed outside of the U.S., you should confirm with your insurer and/or employer that follow-up treatment is covered upon your return to the U.S. You should consider arranging follow-up care with a U.S. dentist prior to travel to ensure continuity of care upon your return. <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/find-a-dentist.aspx">If you do not have a dentist in the U.S., you can find an ADA member dentist in your area at ADA Find-a-Dentist</a>. You should confirm with your U.S. dentist and the dental care provider in the other country that the transfer of patient records to-and-from facilities outside of the U.S. is consistent with current U.S. privacy and security guidelines.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Q: What about travel advisories?</b></div><div><b>A</b>: The <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html">U.S. Department of State</a> issues travel alerts to disseminate information about short-term conditions, generally within a particular country, that pose imminent risks to the security of U.S. citizens. In the spring of 2009, for example, the Department of State issued a travel alert cautioning people to avoid non-essential travel to Mexico because of an outbreak of H1N1 influenza in that country that resulted in a number of deaths. In addition, the alert recommended that travelers check the department's Web site for new travel advisories as well as the Web site of the <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/">U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a> for any additional information or recommendations. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bottom line: If you’re considering travelling for dental care, remember, saving money overseas may lead to greater expense to your health and your wallet when you arrive back home. </b></div><div><br /></div><div>The above article is from <a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/t/travel">mouthhealthy.org</a></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div></div>Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-19914118000209390462020-09-15T07:00:00.001-07:002020-09-15T07:00:08.128-07:00Clean Teeth: How to Clean Your Teeth for a Healthy Mouth<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4GzGkkviowdwiUeFW2y8i4HCZiqGecdgw9HkT2M4AWkPGA1ooq9mSLTmaYrMjG0Mrpm9tScJ2b95DQM_93_sotzlN2Z1WWJ7_f8XoNQzX7nAneHBJ2DOsI_iqkStl2O0ofDAh-4HF8XI/s700/Teeth-Cleaning-for-a-Healthy-Mouth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="700" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4GzGkkviowdwiUeFW2y8i4HCZiqGecdgw9HkT2M4AWkPGA1ooq9mSLTmaYrMjG0Mrpm9tScJ2b95DQM_93_sotzlN2Z1WWJ7_f8XoNQzX7nAneHBJ2DOsI_iqkStl2O0ofDAh-4HF8XI/w400-h143/Teeth-Cleaning-for-a-Healthy-Mouth.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The best way to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth in good health is through regular and effective teeth cleaning. In addition to your regular oral hygiene routine, most dental professionals recommend professional teeth cleaning. Not only will good teeth cleaning keep you in good oral health and hygiene, it will also help keep your mouth feeling fresh, prevent bad breath, and can help keep your teeth white and bright.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Brushing for Clean Teeth</b></div><div><a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/why-crest/faq/how-to-properly-brush-your-teeth">Brushing your teeth</a> is the most important and effective method for teeth cleaning. Most dentists recommend you brush at least twice a day, but brushing after every meal is even better. Whether you choose electric or manual, select a toothbrush that allows you to easily clean all surfaces and in hard to reach areas. And don't forget to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months.</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Picking a Toothbrush</b>: Make sure your toothbrush fits your mouth. It’s easier to achieve clean teeth if you aren’t using a brush that’s too big. If you have a small mouth, you may find it easier to clean teeth by using a toothbrush with a compact head instead of a full-sized head. Some people find that electric toothbrushes make it easier to spend the dentist-recommended two minutes on teeth cleaning. <a href="https://oralb.com/en-us/products/electric-toothbrushes/vitality">Oral-B Vitality Toothbrushes</a> provide thorough teeth cleaning and help to remove plaque and surface stains.</li><li><b>Picking a Toothpaste</b>: Crest Pro-Health Toothpaste is available in several varieties <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/products/toothpaste/crest-pro-health-clean-mint">(Clean Mint, Smooth Peppermint, Whitening Power, Sensitive & Enamel Shield)</a>. All types of Crest Toothpaste help protect against tooth sensitivity and help fight cavities, tartar, plaque, gingivitis, stains and bad breath.</li><li><b>Proper Brushing Technique</b>: You can maximize clean teeth by using the most effective techniques for teeth brushing. Hold your toothbrush at approximately a 45-degree angle to the teeth you are brushing. Use small strokes and brush your teeth in sections. Don’t forget to go all the way behind your last tooth on each side. Use small, tooth-sized strokes to brush the surface of each tooth, rather than large, sweeping strokes. Cleaning teeth includes cleaning all three sides—front, back, and top of the chewing surface.</li></ul></div><div><b>Flossing for Clean Teeth</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Picking Floss</b>: A thorough teeth cleaning routine includes daily flossing. <a href="https://oralb.com/en-us/products/glide-pro-health-deep-clean-mint-floss">Oral-B Glide Deep Clean Floss</a>, slides easily between the teeth to remove food particles and reduce the daily buildup of plaque and bacteria on the teeth.</li><li><b>Proper Flossing Technique</b>: Flossing is an essential part of teeth cleaning. You should floss regularly to remove food particles from in between your teeth. This can help <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/tartar-plaque/plaque-tartar-causes-prevention-removal">reduce plaque and tartar build-up</a> between teeth. If you have trouble sliding floss between your teeth, try waxed floss or wide floss. The American Dental Association recommends using about 18 inches of floss, so you have a clean piece of floss to use on each tooth in the cleaning teeth process. Curve the floss into a C-shape as you slide it up and down along the side of each tooth. Don’t forget to floss the back sides of your back teeth on both the left and right of the upper and lower teeth. </li></ul></div><div><b>Rinsing for Clean Teeth</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Picking a Mouthwash</b>: <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/products/mouthwash/crest-pro-health-multi-protection-mouthwash">Crest Pro-Health Multi-Protection Mouthwash</a> boosts your teeth cleaning routine with additional germ-killing and plaque-preventing properties.</li><li><b>Proper Rinsing Technique</b>: Mouthwash is a great method for teeth cleaning and also leaves your mouth feeling fresh and clean. If you don’t like the burning sensation you get from alcohol-based rinses, look for formulas that are made without alcohol.</li></ul></div><div><b>Get a Professional Teeth Cleaning</b></div><div>The happy, healthy mouth feeling you get after a good teeth cleaning is invaluable. Visiting a dental professional at least twice a year is an important part of your oral hygiene regimen. Professional teeth cleaning removes the tartar you just can’t get to at home, and regular exams will ensure your teeth and mouth are in good health. After cleaning teeth, a dentist will examine your mouth for signs of problems including:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Tooth loss</b>: Cleaning teeth professionally helps keep them in good condition to promote better chewing and swallowing.</li><li><b>Gum disease</b>: <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/gums/gum-disease-symptoms-causes-treatments">Gum disease</a> can be avoided or caught early if a dentist sees problems while cleaning teeth.</li><li><b>Dental damage</b>: You may not notice if you have broken fillings or damaged crowns, but a regular dental visit can identify these problems and fix them before they become serious enough to require surgery or tooth removal.</li><li><b>Oral cancer</b>: Mouth cancer is usually treatable if diagnosed early, and a dentist can screen for oral cancer during a visit for cleaning teeth. </li></ul></div><div><b>How to Maintain Clean Teeth</b></div><div>In addition to following a complete oral care routine, you can support your cleaning teeth efforts by avoiding cigarettes and other tobacco products, eating healthy, and visiting a dental professional regularly. Keep these other tips in mind to maintain clean teeth:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Rinse away stains</b>: if you can’t brush your teeth after consuming food or beverages that may stain your teeth, preserve clean teeth by rinsing your mouth with water or a mouthwash.</li><li><b>Quit smoking</b>: Smoking is one of the top factors that undermines clean teeth. You can go a long way toward having a healthy mouth if you avoid tobacco products. That includes not only cigarettes, but cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco (chew/dip). If you use tobacco products, it’s not too late to have a healthy mouth if you quit, or at least cut back. Studies have shown that smoking may contribute to gum disease by getting in the way when normal gum tissue cells try to do their job of maintaining a healthy mouth.</li><li><b>Eat right</b>: Eating a balanced diet helps promote a healthy mouth, healthy teeth, and healthy gums. The American Dental Association recommends keeping between-meal snacks to a minimum to promote a healthy mouth. If you do need a snack, some healthy mouth choices include raw veggies, plain yogurt, cheese, or a piece of fruit, such as an apple or pear.</li></ul></div><div><b>Benefits of Good Oral Health</b></div><div>Keeping a healthy smile is one of many benefits associated with teeth cleaning. If you keep your teeth and mouth healthy, you are sure to appreciate the following important benefits.</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Good Oral Health</b>: Regular teeth cleaning will keep your mouth and body healthy. Good oral hygiene can prevent plaque build-up, which can lead to gum disease. Numerous studies have suggested a correlation between poor oral hygiene, gum disease, and heart disease, so teeth cleaning is an important way to keep your entire body healthy.</li><li><b>Better Breath</b>: Want to get a little closer? Regular teeth cleaning with any fluoride toothpaste can help freshen your breath. For a better breath bonus, choose <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/products/toothpaste/crest-pro-health-clean-mint">mint toothpaste</a>, and don’t forget to brush your tongue.</li><li><b>Brighter Smile</b>: No one likes to have <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/teeth-stains/yellow-teeth-causes-how-to-whiten-yellow-teeth">yellow teeth</a> and an unsightly smile. Removing surface stains with daily teeth cleaning helps your teeth look brighter. Having a whiter smile helps improve your overall appearance, especially since your smile is an important part of making a good first impression.</li><li><b>Confidence</b>: When you look great, you feel great. Flashing a bright, white smile after a good teeth cleaning will give you a new sense of self-confidence that is sure to show. Studies have shown that a bright, healthy smile gives you more confidence in both personal and professional settings.</li><li><b>Save Money</b>: Following a regular teeth cleaning routine can eventually help you avoid costly dental visits to manage severe gum disease or tooth decay.</li></ul></div><div>So, the next time you consider putting off your regular teeth cleaning for another month, remember all of this important information and think again before picking up the phone. You’ll be glad to have a happier mouth and smile once you’ve had a good teeth cleaning.</div><div> </div><div>The above article is from <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/adults/clean-teeth-how-clean-your-teeth-healthy-mouth">crest.com</a></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div></div>Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-38136506579317778052020-09-06T07:00:00.001-07:002020-09-06T07:00:04.196-07:00How Long Do Sealants Last And How To Wear Them Well<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK8z6A1twNH85HWBnnBi4natBc6XBjv0bcz6p1-Hus2Ik8Pjt4skigg75DN_H3M7KVwKi5sE_B1vhXptpZchjd8xp8i_ChFgW1FAnIbXPerOCscJmAHgdlInKhqyrfWuVFx6NILNUQC8A/s640/dental_sealants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK8z6A1twNH85HWBnnBi4natBc6XBjv0bcz6p1-Hus2Ik8Pjt4skigg75DN_H3M7KVwKi5sE_B1vhXptpZchjd8xp8i_ChFgW1FAnIbXPerOCscJmAHgdlInKhqyrfWuVFx6NILNUQC8A/w320-h180/dental_sealants.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Even someone with a fastidious dental hygiene routine can be at risk for cavities. Certain people are simply more prone to dental caries due to the shape and structure of their teeth – not because they don't brush regularly. If your dentist notices you (or someone in your family) is prone to advanced decay despite good oral hygiene, he or she may suggest using dental sealants to help keep the teeth healthy.</div><div><br /></div><div>Of course, concerns are normal: How long do sealants last? Will the application hurt? Here's a little more about why dental sealants may be a great option for a cavitiy-prone individual.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Why Dental Sealants?</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Dentists don't suggest sealants to all of their patients. Rather, they're usually reserved for individuals who are especially prone to cavities, such as teens and young kids – including those who <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/cavities/sw-281474979060701">still have baby teeth</a>. Sealants are designed to fill the deep pits and grooves of your molars, which are uniquely susceptible to caries because they're known to trap food particles in these areas of the teeth. When bacteria become trapped in this way, it's often a recipe for cavities, so the sealants protect the tooth from caries altogether.</div><div><br /></div><div>Applying sealants before decay starts, as noted by the <a href="http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/oralhealth/Topics/ToothDecay/SealOutToothDecay.htm#whyDoBack">National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)</a>, allows the sealant to block the area of bacteria and food particles from attaching to the surface of the teeth.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Will They Hurt?</b></div><div><br /></div><div>It's understandable to be nervous about a dental procedure with which you have no prior experience. But dental sealants are virtually painless. The majority of them are made with liquid resin, which is then brushed onto the teeth so it can harden. The process only takes a few minutes, including application and drying. In fact, the procedure may be on offer in the dental center of some schools.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once applied, the resin dries into a hard, plastic-like material in just a few seconds or when using a light to cure the sealant material. The material is invisible and won't feel any different than the surfaces of your natural teeth.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>How Long Do Sealants Last? Can I Extend Their Wear?</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Once your sealants have been applied, the NIDCR estimates they can last up to 10 years with proper care. You won't have to have them removed; instead, sealants gradually wear away over time, allowing you to receive new sealants as needed. Nonetheless, their hardened plastic material holds up remarkably well as long as you avoid behavior that puts undue stress on your teeth – such as using your teeth to open tough food packaging.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once your sealants have been applied, your dentist will check on them each time you come in for a cleaning. He or she can even reapply if they seem to be wearing faster than usual, just to make sure your teeth are protected from the bacteria that can calcify into tartar when you're not in the dentist's chair.</div><div><br /></div><div>Keep in mind sealants aren't the only way to ward off cavities, and are definitely not a substitute for regular oral care. If you or your child is especially prone to cavities, use products such as <a href="http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/products/toothpaste/colgate-cavity-protection">Colgate® Cavity Protection</a>, which contains sodium monofluorophosphate fluoride – proven to protect teeth from the common cavity.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you're wondering if dental sealants are the right choice for you or your child, ask your dentist about them during your next checkup. Provided you're the right type of candidate, sealants may be an excellent solution for warding off cavities and keeping your smile healthy.</div><div><br /></div><div>The above article is from <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/procedures/sealants/how-long-do-sealants-last-and-how-to-wear-them-well-0915">colgate.com</a></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;"><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div></div>Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-31165238969902022452020-08-24T07:00:00.000-07:002020-08-24T07:00:01.360-07:00Diastema (Gap Between Teeth)<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<b>What Is It?</b><br />
A diastema is a space or gap between two teeth. It appears most often between the two upper front teeth. However, gaps can occur between any two teeth.<br />
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A mismatch between the size of the jaw bones and the size of the teeth can cause either extra space between teeth or crowding of teeth. If the teeth are too small for the jaw bone, spaces between the teeth will occur. If the teeth are too big for the jaw, teeth will be crowded.<br />
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Spaces develop for a few other reasons as well.<br />
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Sometimes some teeth are missing or undersized. This happens most often with the upper lateral incisors (the teeth next to the two upper front teeth). That can cause the upper central incisors to develop a space.<br />
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A diastema also can be caused by an oversized labial frenum. The labial frenum is the piece of tissue that normally extends from the inside of your upper lip to the gum just above your two upper front teeth. In some situations, the labial frenum continues to grow and passes between the two front teeth. If this happens, it blocks the natural closing of the space between these teeth.<br />
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Habits can also lead to gaps between the teeth. Thumb sucking tends to pull the front teeth forward, creating gaps.<br />
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Spaces can develop from an incorrect swallowing reflex. For most people, the tongue presses against the roof of the mouth (palate) during swallowing. Some people develop a different reflex known as a tongue thrust. When they swallow, the tongue presses against the front teeth. Over time the pressure will push the front teeth forward. This can cause spaces to develop.<br />
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Periodontal (gum) disease results in the loss of the bone that supports the teeth. In people who have lost a lot of bone, the teeth can become loose. This movement can result in gaps between the front teeth.<br />
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Children may have temporary gaps as their baby teeth fall out. Most of these spaces close as the permanent teeth reach their final positions.<br />
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<b>Symptoms</b><br />
A diastema that occurs because of a mismatch between the teeth and the jaw does not have symptoms. However, spaces caused by a tongue thrust habit or periodontal disease will tend to expand or grow with time. The teeth may become loose, and discomfort or pain may occur, particularly during biting or chewing.<br />
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<b>Diagnosis</b><br />
You may notice a space when brushing or flossing. Your dentist can see spaces during an examination.<br />
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<b>Expected Duration</b><br />
If the gap was caused by a mismatch between the permanent teeth and the jaw size, the spaces can be expected to remain throughout life.<br />
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Gaps caused by a tongue thrust habit or periodontal disease can get larger with time.<br />
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<b>Prevention</b><br />
Not all spaces can be prevented. For example, if the reason for a space is a missing tooth or a mismatch between the teeth and the jaw size, the spaces cannot be prevented without treatment.<br />
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Maintaining your gum health is essential to good oral health. Regular flossing and brushing will help to prevent periodontal disease and its related bone loss.<br />
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People with a tongue thrust habit can re-learn to swallow by pushing their tongue up against their palate. Breaking this habit can prevent widening of the spaces between teeth.<br />
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<b>Treatment</b><br />
Sometimes, a diastema is part of a set of problems that require orthodontic treatment. In other cases, a diastema is the only problem. However, some people may seek treatment for reasons of appearance.<br />
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Some people get braces, which move the teeth together. Often, no matter where the diastema is, you must wear a full set of braces — on both your upper and lower teeth. That's because moving any teeth affects your entire mouth.<br />
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If your lateral incisors are too small, your dentist may suggest widening them using crowns, veneers or bonding.<br />
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If you have a space because you are missing teeth, you might need more extensive dental repair. This might include dental implants, a bridge or a partial denture.<br />
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If a large labial frenum is causing the gap, the frenum can be reduced through surgery called a frenectomy.<br />
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If a frenectomy is done in a younger child, the space may close on its own. If it is done in an older child or an adult, the space may need to be closed with braces.<br />
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If the gap is caused by periodontal disease, then periodontal treatment by a dentist or gum specialist (periodontist) is necessary. When gum health is restored, in many cases braces can be used to move the teeth into place. A splint can be used to attach teeth to other teeth and prevent them from moving again. In some cases, a bridge will be required to close the spaces.<br />
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<b>When To Call a Professional</b><br />
If you have a space between your teeth or see one in your child's mouth, talk with your dentist. He or she will determine the reason for the space and may refer you to an orthodontist, a specialist in treatment with braces. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children be evaluated by an orthodontist by age 7. Treatment (if needed) may not begin right away. You and the orthodontist will discuss the overall treatment plan.<br />
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If your space is the result of periodontal disease, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist.<br />
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<b>Prognosis</b><br />
If a diastema is closed through orthodontics or dental repair, the space will tend to stay closed. However, to help prevent the space from coming back, wear your retainers as directed by your orthodontist. Your orthodontist may also splint (attach) the backs of the teeth to other teeth with composite (plastic) and a wire to prevent them from moving. Learn more about tooth whitening <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/teeth-whitening">here</a>.<br />
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The above article is from <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/early-orthodontics/diastema-gap-between-teeth">colgate.com</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-78096445217384410852020-08-15T07:00:00.000-07:002020-08-15T07:00:04.869-07:00Dental Emergency<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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Accidents happen, and knowing what to do when one occurs can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth.<br />
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<b>Here are some tips for common dental emergencies: </b><br />
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<ul>
<li>For a knocked-out permanent or adult tooth, keep it moist at all times. If you can, try placing the tooth back in the socket without touching the root. If that’s not possible, place it in between your cheek and gums, in milk, or use a t<a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/ada-seal-products/category-display/?category=Emergency+Tooth+Preservation+Product">ooth preservation product</a> that has the <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/ada-seal-products/">ADA Seal of Acceptance</a>. Then, get to your dentist’s office right away. </li>
<li>For a cracked tooth, immediately rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area. Put cold compresses on the face to keep any swelling down. </li>
<li>If you bite your tongue or lip, clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress. </li>
<li>For toothaches, rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between the teeth. Do not put aspirin on the aching tooth or gum tissues. </li>
<li>For objects stuck in the mouth, try to gently remove with floss but do not try to remove it with sharp or pointed instruments. </li>
</ul>
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When you have a dental emergency, it’s important to visit your dentist or an emergency room as soon as possible.<br />
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<b>Here are some simple precautions you can take to avoid accident and injury to the teeth: </b><br />
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<ul>
<li>Wear a mouthguard when participating in sports or recreational activities. </li>
<li>Avoid chewing ice, popcorn kernels and hard candy, all of which can crack a tooth. </li>
<li>Use scissors, <b>NEVER</b> your teeth, to cut things. </li>
</ul>
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Most dentists reserve time in their daily schedules for emergency patients. Call your dentist and provide as much detail as possible about your condition.<br />
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The above article is from <a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/d/dental-emergencies">mouthhealthy.org</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-7507408665801514202020-08-06T07:00:00.000-07:002020-08-06T07:00:11.768-07:00What to Do About Chipped Baby Teeth?<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 15pt;">
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Children are naturally rambunctious with all their high-energy antics such as running, jumping, diving, or just biting down too hard on something. It goes without saying that a chipped baby tooth is a common experience during these early stages, especially a chipped front tooth.<br />
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If your child chips his or her tooth, don’t panic. Unless your child is in pain, a chipped baby tooth is usually nothing serious. Nevertheless, when a chipped tooth does occur, it’s wise to call the dentist and schedule an appointment. Because the sooner you deal with the problem, the better. After all, sometimes your child may not even realize what just happened, and there may be damage that you can’t see.<br />
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<b>Chipped Baby Tooth Repair</b><br />
There are many ways to deal with a chipped tooth and it’s worth reiterating that you should always see a dentist as soon as possible after the event, no matter how severe. A chipped tooth can cause pain and discomfort when chewing or when exposed to very hot or cold temperatures. Below is a list of methods on how best to deal with a chipped tooth.<br />
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<ul>
<li><b>Stay calm</b>: Chipping a tooth is a common thing among children. When such an event happens, there’s no need for alarm. Also remember not to make your child feel self-conscious about their chipped tooth, even if it’s noticeable.</li>
<li><b>Check your child</b>: You’ll want to check and see if your child is in pain or crying. Also check for blood.</li>
<li><b>Call the dentist</b>: Remaining calm, explain what happened and follow any instructions your dentist may give you before scheduling an appointment.</li>
<li><b>Rinse / cold compress</b>: Aside from calling the dentist, you’ll want to rinse your child’s mouth with cold water and apply a cold compress to reduce any potential swelling. You’ll also want to collect any teeth fragments from the scene of the accident and bring them to your dentist. In a case where you cannot find any teeth fragments and your child is having difficulty breathing, immediately take them to an emergency room to make sure they didn’t inhale any teeth fragments.</li>
<li><b>Pain relief</b>: If your child continues to feel pain after the event, an advised amount of children’s ibuprofen is appropriate. If you are not sure, ask your dentist or doctor what the correct dosage before administering any medication.</li>
<li><b>Keep an eye on it</b>: In some cases, the damage from the lost tooth will become visible later, such as a chipped baby tooth turning grey. Also make sure their gums do not become infected.</li>
</ul>
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While it’s never fun when your child gets a chipped tooth, sometimes these things happen, and having a plan is essential in such an event.<br />
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The above article is from <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/infants/what-to-do-about-chipped-teeth">crest.com</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div>
Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-27895754341225652382020-07-24T07:00:00.000-07:002020-07-24T07:00:01.001-07:00Tooth Pain and Sensitivity Before or After Filling Cavities<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 6pt;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuPHLW0YC-vdCC1mKJT2J5z6HFRU_a8pvrV1ulhWBoDjk1l1DOqLNCAl1wFPl4VU0U-KbEZo7hb-T5lzIuvavcR0miZRZGgzuWM5zoP_JW14XQq7d-IMdzf3Te0G7tRoBp6x6FkSVBgb8/s1600/Tooth-Pain-and-Sensitivity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="251" data-original-width="700" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuPHLW0YC-vdCC1mKJT2J5z6HFRU_a8pvrV1ulhWBoDjk1l1DOqLNCAl1wFPl4VU0U-KbEZo7hb-T5lzIuvavcR0miZRZGgzuWM5zoP_JW14XQq7d-IMdzf3Te0G7tRoBp6x6FkSVBgb8/s320/Tooth-Pain-and-Sensitivity.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
If you have <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/cavities-tooth-decay/cavities-tooth-decay-symptoms-causes-treatment">cavity symptoms</a>, you may have pain in your teeth or in your gums. Cavity pain relief depends on the extent of your tooth decay. Regardless if your cavity symptoms are mild or severe, you should visit your dentist as you may need a filling.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Tooth Fillings for Cavity Pain Relief</b><br />
<a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/cavities-tooth-decay/Link%20to:%20https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/cavities-tooth-decay/cavity-fillings-what-to-expect-types-problems">Dental fillings</a> are among the most common ways to relieve <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/cavities-tooth-decay/cavity-pain-what-feels-like-relief-remedies">cavity pain</a>. Here’s a basic overview of cavity pain relief with a dental filling:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Numbness</b>: The first thing the dentist will do is numb the area of the cavity.</li>
<li><b>Cleaning</b>: Once the area is numb, the dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth.</li>
<li><b>Filling</b>: The final step in cavity pain relief—the dentist places a filling made from the material of your choice.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Causes of Tooth Pain After Fillings</b><br />
Fillings are used to replace the decayed area of a tooth, reducing the pain associated with the cavity itself. But tooth pain after filling a tooth is not unusual. Some common reasons for tooth pain after a filling include:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Tooth sensitivity</b>: A tooth that has just had a filling placed will be more sensitive to <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/teeth-sensitivity/teeth-sensitive-hot-food-beverages">hot foods</a> and cold foods, air temperature, and the pressure of biting. This type of tooth pain after filling a cavity should resolve within a few weeks. If not, contact your dentist.</li>
<li><b>Cracked or loose tooth fillings</b>: Tooth pain after filling a cavity can occur if the filling is not fitting properly to the tooth, or if it develops cracks. If you suspect that your tooth pain is caused by a cracked or ill-fitting filling, contact your dentist.</li>
<li><b>Allergic reaction to tooth fillings</b>: Some people have allergic reactions to the material used for their fillings, such as silver. To help avoid tooth pain after filling a cavity, be sure to tell your dentist about any allergies when discussing your filling choices.</li>
</ul>
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<b>Tooth Filling Pain Relief</b><br />
You can reduce your risk of tooth pain after filling a cavity by avoiding common sensitive teeth triggers, including very hot or cold foods. In addition, toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help minimize the possible sensitivity and tooth pain after filling a cavity. <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/products/crest-gum-sensitivity-repair-refreshing-mint-toothpaste">Crest Gum and Sensitivity</a> oral care products are formulated to help relieve the pain associated with sensitivity fast while offering additional protection against food and drinks that cause sensitivity.<br />
<br />
If you have <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/cavities-tooth-decay/cavities-tooth-decay-symptoms-causes-treatment">cavity symptoms</a>, you may have pain in your teeth or in your gums. Cavity pain relief depends on the extent of your tooth decay. Regardless if your cavity symptoms are mild or severe, you should visit your dentist as you may need a filling.<br />
<br />
When you have a dental procedure, you may experience sore teeth afterward. Sore teeth are common after many dental procedures, whether it is something as simple as a cavity filling or as complicated as gum surgery.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Sore Teeth After Filling</b><br />
Whether you suffer from short-term sore teeth after receiving a filling or long-term sensitive teeth, it is important to follow a complete oral care routine. The Crest Pro-Health Sensitive Shield collection of products can help keep sore teeth clean and healthy, with a toothpaste designed to protect your sensitive teeth.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Gentle Brushing</b>: The <a href="https://oralb.com/en-us/products/sensi-soft-manual-toothbrush">Oral-B Sensi-Soft Manual Toothbrush</a> is easy on sore teeth.</li>
<li><b>Soft Flossing</b>: <a href="https://oralb.com/en-us/products/glide-pro-health-comfort-plus-mint-floss">Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Comfort Plus Mint Floss</a> is shred-resistant and extra soft.</li>
<li><b>Sensitivity Protection</b>: <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/products/crest-gum-sensitivity-repair-refreshing-mint-toothpaste">Crest Gum and Sensitivity Toothpaste</a> starts treating sensitivity immediately at the source while helping to fight plaque, gingivitis, and cavities.</li>
</ul>
<br />
The above article is from <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/cavities-tooth-decay/tooth-pain-sensitivity-before-after-filling-cavities">crest.com</a><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div>
Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-56656390174835422672020-07-15T07:00:00.000-07:002020-07-15T07:00:00.286-07:00Dentures<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWoMMjA_xj33c8gusj1yF4WpOnmcZ_5TBEoa-EaaOyLIhJkyYpuPzvH4tWkLTahavP6w3TYm0OPKClNoikR2ORaJt8xSkoLeG_V5GupQdlkzsgb0WQpjGSjDvCjI8ZyLiIzs2f3Gb8qgI/s1600/dentures.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWoMMjA_xj33c8gusj1yF4WpOnmcZ_5TBEoa-EaaOyLIhJkyYpuPzvH4tWkLTahavP6w3TYm0OPKClNoikR2ORaJt8xSkoLeG_V5GupQdlkzsgb0WQpjGSjDvCjI8ZyLiIzs2f3Gb8qgI/s320/dentures.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Dentures are removable appliances that can replace missing teeth and help restore your smile. If you’ve lost all of your natural teeth, whether from gum disease, tooth decay or injury, replacing missing teeth will benefit your appearance and your health. That’s because dentures make it easier to eat and speak better than you could without teeth—things that people often take for granted.<br />
<br />
When you lose all of your teeth, facial muscles can sag, making you look older. Dentures can help fill out the appearance of your face and profile. They can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth so that your appearance does not change much. Dentures may even improve the look of your smile.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Types of dentures:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Conventional. This full removable denture is made and placed in your mouth after the remaining teeth are removed and tissues have healed, which may take several months. </li>
<li>Immediate. This removable denture is inserted on the same day that the remaining teeth are removed. Your dentist will take measurements and make models of your jaw during a preliminary visit. You don’t have to be without teeth during the healing period, but may need to have the denture relined or remade after your jaw has healed. </li>
<li>Overdenture. Sometimes some of your teeth can be saved to preserve your jawbone and provide stability and support for the denture. An overdenture fits over a small number of remaining natural teeth after they have been prepared by your dentist. Implants can serve the same function, too. </li>
</ul>
<br />
New dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them. The dentures may feel loose while the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place. It is not unusual to experience minor irritation or soreness. You may find that saliva flow temporarily increases. As your mouth becomes accustomed to the dentures, these problems should go away. Follow-up appointments with the dentist are generally needed after a denture is inserted so the fit can be checked and adjusted. If any problem persists, particularly irritation or soreness, be sure to consult your dentist.<br />
<br />
Even if you wear full dentures, you still have to practice good dental hygiene. Brush your gums, tongue and roof of your mouth every morning with a soft-bristled brush before you insert your dentures to stimulate circulation in your tissues and help remove plaque.<br />
<br />
<b>Like your teeth, your dentures should be brushed daily to remove food particles and plaque. Brushing also can help keep the teeth from staining. </b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Rinse your dentures before brushing to remove any loose food or debris. </li>
<li>Use a soft bristle toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleanser to gently brush all the surfaces of the dentures so they don't get scratched.</li>
<li>When brushing, clean your mouth thoroughly—including your gums, cheeks, roof of your mouth and tongue to remove any plaque. This can help reduce the risk of oral irritation and bad breath. </li>
<li>When you’re not wearing your dentures, put them in a safe place covered in water to keep them from warping. </li>
<li>Occasionally, denture wearers may use adhesives. Adhesives come in many forms: creams, powders, pads/wafers, strips or liquids. If you use one of these products, read the instructions, and use them exactly as directed. Your dentist can recommend appropriate cleansers and adhesives; look for products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Products with the ADA Seal have been evaluated for safety and effectiveness.</li>
</ul>
<br />
If you have any questions about your dentures, or if they stop fitting well or become damaged, contact your dentist. Be sure to schedule regular dental checkups, too. The dentist will examine your mouth to see if your dentures continue to fit properly.<br />
<br />
The above article is from <a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/d/dentures">mouthhealthy.org</a><br />
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<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div>
Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-38502206775293087612020-07-06T07:00:00.000-07:002020-07-06T07:00:00.665-07:00Is Composite Resin Bonding Right For You?<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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Composite resin bonding can be a fast, minimally invasive and inexpensive option for the beautiful smile you're looking for. But knowing what makes you a good candidate can help you determine if it's the right investment for you.<br />
<br />
<b>What Is Composite Bonding?</b><br />
<br />
Composite bonding is a cosmetic technique wherein a type of dental material – in this case, composite resin – is shaped and molded on your teeth to give the appearance of straighter, whiter smile. It can be used as a cosmetic solution to chipped teeth, gapped teeth and staining in both teeth and fillings. Unlike porcelain veneer placement, which can take more than two visits, composite resin bonding can be completed in one appointment.<br />
<br />
According to <a href="http://www.everydayhealth.com/dental-health/cosmetic-dentistry/bonding.aspx">Everyday Health</a>, the cost for bonding can range from about $300 to $600 per tooth for a simpler procedure, like a cavity filling. Although many dental insurance plans do not cover cosmetic bonding, it's good practice to ask whether they will cover a portion – especially if it's part of a medically necessary procedure, which some insurers acknowledge.<br />
<br />
<b>Whom Is Composite Bonding Right For?</b><br />
<br />
Composite resin bonding isn't for everyone. If your smile is crooked as the result of an over- or underbite, this treatment won't serve to correct it. Instead, speak with your dentist to determine if more in-depth work is needed like adjusting your bite or any complex chips or gaps in your teeth. Bonding is primarily for those who seek a cosmetic solution for teeth that are otherwise healthy.<br />
<br />
<b>What Can You Expect During Your Visit?</b><br />
<br />
Composite bonding is a safe and effective technique that was developed more than 50 years ago, and has been widely available for over three decades, according to the <a href="http://www.ada.org/~/media/ADA/Publications/Files/august_Centennial_commentary.ashx">American Dental Association (ADA)</a>. The fillings and processes today are very efficient, making it easier for both you and your dentist.<br />
<br />
The treatment itself often starts with the removal of some surface enamel, allowing the dentist to best shape the composite resin to your tooth, followed by the application of the bonding agent. Your dentist will then add the composite resin, cure it with a special light and finish by polishing your teeth. Because the process involves a high level of technique for a natural mold and shape, it's best to work with a dentist who has experience and specialty in this area.<br />
<br />
<b>What Aftercare Is Needed?</b><br />
<br />
With normal care, today's composite material is durable enough to last without regular attention; you won't need to seek out your dentist for special visits and upkeep. Nonetheless, make sure to keep your regular dental checkup and daily oral care a priority. Mouthwashes like <a href="http://www.colgatetotal.com/mouthwash/gum-health">Colgate Total® Gum Health</a>, for instance, can improve gum strength by 45 percent for those who find their gumline tougher to maintain after bonding treatment. You should also avoid biting down on particularly hard foods, or ice, to prevent cracking.<br />
<br />
If you're interested in achieving a brighter smile, composite resin bonding is a great option. Be sure to take care of your other oral necessities, first, to ensure your natural smile is healthy inside and out.<br />
<br />
The above article is from <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/bonding/is-composite-resin-bonding-right-for-you-0615">colgate.com</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div>
Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-24827396298816597642020-06-24T07:00:00.000-07:002020-06-24T07:00:06.805-07:00What Is Dental Public Health? A Look At How It Can Help<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
Below is an excerpt from an article found on <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/basics/nutrition-and-oral-health/what-is-dental-public-health-0116">colgate.com</a><br />
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Many oral diseases can be prevented with routine care and regular dental checkups. Unfortunately, not everyone is able to access adequate oral care. Dental public health programs work to rectify that. They provide assistance and programs so people can avoid the pain and discomfort poor oral health causes.<br />
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Recognized by the <a href="http://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/dental-public-health">American Dental Association</a> as a dental specialty since 1950, public dental programs focus on oral health issues within populations and communities rather than individuals. The goal is to assure optimal oral health among Americans through disease prevention and dental health promotion. Here are just a few examples of such programs that aim to improve the oral health of all Americans.<br />
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<b>Dental Care for Students</b><br />
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Dental problems in kids can also affect a child's health and even his or her performance at school. In a study of 1,500 elementary to high school children from disadvantaged backgrounds in Los Angeles, California, 73 percent were found to have dental caries, says a study from the <a href="http://dentistry.usc.edu/2012/08/10/poor-oral-health-can-mean-missed-school-lower-grades/">Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry at the University of Southern California</a>. The study found a correlation between these dental issues, lower grades and increased missed school days.<br />
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Dental sealants can reduce child tooth decay by more than 70 percent, estimates the <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/OralHealth/dental_sealant_program/index.htm">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a> (CDC). This is why several states have implemented school-based programs to provide sealants to children from low-income families who are at risk for cavities. Such programs identify a target market within a school district to meet the needs of children who are less likely to receive private dental care.<br />
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<b>Dental Care for Seniors</b><br />
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Cost keeps many people away from the dentist, especially older adults. The problem: Avoiding preventive dental care will only lead to more extensive and expensive procedures later on. Furthermore, the severity of gum disease increases with age. As many as 23 percent of adults between the ages of 65 and 74 have severe gum disease, while people of all ages at the lowest socioeconomic level have the most severe gum disease, putting low-income seniors at risk, according to the <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/publications/factsheets/adult_oral_health/adult_older.htm">CDC</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/dental-services.html">Medicare</a> doesn't cover routine dental procedures and fewer than half of the states offer comprehensive dental benefits through <a href="https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/benefits/dental/index.html">Medicaid</a>, leaving many seniors without necessary dental insurance. Some dental public health solutions include community outreach programs, like the <a href="http://dental.tufts.edu/academics/public-health-and-community-service/division-of-geriatric-dentistry/">Division of Geriatric Dentistry at Tufts University</a>, which teaches the elderly about denture care and provides oral health and cancer screenings.<br />
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<b>Dental Care for Expectant Moms</b><br />
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<a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/oral-care-during-pregnancy/pregnancy-prenatal-care-and-oral-health">Dental care</a> is especially important during pregnancy, but many women are unaware that oral health problems during this time can put both Mom and baby at risk. In a questionnaire provided to all maternity hospitals in the state of Iowa, 44 percent of women claimed they didn't visit a dentist during their pregnancy, reports the <a href="http://www.idph.state.ia.us/IDPHChannelsService/file.ashx?file=7B29B86C-4586-4754-83FA-16E0F15E11EA#page=8">Iowa Department of Public Health</a>. To help expectant moms stay informed and in charge of their overall health, the National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families launched an app called <a href="https://text4baby.org/">Text4Baby</a>, which educates mothers on their baby's development and baby care through their child's first year. It can also be used to set reminders for prenatal doctor and dentist visits, so that women can get the care they and their child need. Agencies on the federal, state and local level have partnered with this app to provide resources and information to expectant moms in their communities.<br />
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Preventive dental care, from using a quality toothbrush with extra soft bristles especially for sensitive gums like <a href="http://www.colgateenamelhealth.com/products/360-toothbrush">Colgate 360 Enamel Health Sensitive</a>, to regular checkups, is vital for maintaining a healthy mouth and overall well-being. Dental public health programs can improve the lives of those who otherwise wouldn't have access to dental care, while increasing awareness of quality oral care for all.<br />
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To read the entire article visit <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/basics/nutrition-and-oral-health/what-is-dental-public-health-0116">colgate.com</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-82363049254231091752020-06-15T07:00:00.000-07:002020-06-15T07:00:00.155-07:00What is Cosmetic Dentistry? Costs and Types<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
Below is an excerpt from an article found on <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/adults/what-is-cosmetic-dentistry-costs-types">crest.com</a><br />
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If your teeth are stained, discolored, worn, chipped, broken, misaligned, misshapen, or have gaps between them, modern cosmetic dentistry can give you a better smile. A “smile makeover” improves the appearance of your smile through one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures. Cosmetic dentists work with you to develop a treatment plan. Below you’ll find some information that can help you learn more about the various types of cosmetic dental procedures available.<br />
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<b>Types of Cosmetic Dentistry</b><br />
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<b>Teeth Whitening</b><br />
Teeth whitening can be one of the simplest and least expensive ways to improve your smile. Teeth can be bleached with in-office products in your dentist’s office for about $500, or you can buy a mold and gels from your dentist to bleach your teeth at home. There are also <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/products/compare/crest-toothpaste">whitening products</a> available over the counter at retail stores for convenient <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/why-crest/whitestrips/at-home-whitening-for-brighter-smile">at-home whitening</a>: whitening toothpastes, rinses, and whitestrips. These products together run about $3 - $50.<br />
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Dental Veneers<br />
Dental veneers are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored porcelain or resin that cover the front surface of the teeth. After removing about a half-millimeter of enamel from the tooth surface, these thin shells are bonded (cemented) to the front of the teeth, changing their color, shape, size, or length. Veneers are often called “Hollywood teeth." Living up to that name, this process can cost up to $500-$1,300 per tooth.<br />
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<b>Dental Bonding</b><br />
In dental bonding, a tooth-colored, putty-like resin, which is a durable plastic material, is applied to the tooth and hardened with an ultraviolet or laser light, bonding the material to the tooth. Your dentist then trims, shapes, and polishes it. Bonding can repair decayed, chipped, cracked, or misshapen teeth; it is also a good cosmetic alternative to, or replacement for, amalgam or silver fillings. Bonding takes about 30 to 60 minutes, and $100 to $400, per tooth.<br />
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<b>Dental Crown</b><br />
A dental crown, also called a cap, fits over and replaces the entire decayed or damaged tooth above the gum line, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns keep a weak tooth from breaking or hold a cracked tooth together; they can be used cosmetically to cover misshapen or severely discolored teeth. Crowns can be made from metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, resin, or ceramic, and cost about $500 to $900 each.<br />
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<b>Inlays and Onlays</b><br />
Inlays and onlays, also called indirect fillings, are made from gold, porcelain, or composite materials and fill decayed or damaged teeth. Dental fillings are molded into place during an office visit; however, inlays and onlays are created in a dental laboratory and bonded into place by your dentist. The filling is called an “inlay” when the material is bonded within the center of a tooth; it is called an “onlay” when the filling includes one or more points of the tooth or covers the biting surface. Inlays and onlays preserve as much healthy tooth as possible and are an alternative to crowns. This cosmetic dentistry procedure costs about $650 to $1,200 per tooth.<br />
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<b>Dental Implants</b><br />
Dental implants are titanium replacement tooth roots inserted into the bone socket of the missing tooth. As the jawbone heals, it grows around the implanted metal post, anchoring it securely in the jaw and providing a foundation for a replacement tooth. This procedure can cost anywhere from $1,250 to $3,000.<br />
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<b>Other Options</b><br />
A bridge is made of crowns for the teeth on either side of a gap with false teeth in between. A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth. Dental braces can straighten crooked or misaligned teeth and works by applying continuous pressure over a period of time to slowly move teeth in a specific direction.<br />
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To read the entire article visit <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/adults/what-is-cosmetic-dentistry-costs-types">crest.com</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-21087362084783458602020-06-06T07:00:00.000-07:002020-06-06T07:00:00.774-07:00Scaling and Root Planing for Gum Disease<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
Below is an excerpt from an article found on <a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/scaling-and-root-planing">mouthhealthy.org</a><br />
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Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning below the gumline used to treat <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/g/gum-disease">gum disease</a>.<br />
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<b>Why Do I Need It?</b><br />
Gum disease is caused by a sticky film of bacteria called plaque. Plaque is always forming on your teeth, but if they aren’t cleaned well, the bacteria in plaque can cause your gums to become inflamed. When this happens, your gums will pull away from your teeth and form spaces called pockets. Plaque then gets trapped in these pockets and cannot be removed with regular brushing. If untreated, gum disease could lead to bone and tooth loss.<br />
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If gum disease is caught early and hasn’t damaged the structures below the gum line, a professional cleaning should do. If the pockets between your gums and teeth are too deep, however, scaling and root planing may be needed.<br />
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A <a href="http://jada.ada.org/article/S0002-8177%2815%2900346-3/abstract">July 2015 study</a> in the Journal of the American Dental Association finds that scaling and root planing is beneficial to patients with chronic periodontitis (gum disease that has advanced past gingivitis). Chronic periodontitis affects 47.2% of adults over 30 in the United States.<br />
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<b>What Happens During Scaling and Root Planing?</b><br />
This deep cleaning has two parts. Scaling is when your dentist removes all the plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) above and below the gumline, making sure to clean all the way down to the bottom of the pocket. Your dentist will then begin root planing, smoothing out your teeth roots to help your gums reattach to your teeth. Scaling and root planing may take more than one visit to complete and may require a local anesthetic.<br />
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<b>After Care Tips</b><br />
After a deep cleaning, you may have pain for a day or two and teeth sensitivity for up to a week. Your gums also may be swollen, feel tender and bleed.<br />
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To prevent infection, control pain or help you heal, your dentist may prescribe a pill or mouth rinse. Your dentist may also insert medication (subantimicrobial-dose doxycycline) directly into the pocket that was cleaned.<br />
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Your dentist will schedule another visit to see how your gums have healed and measure the depth of your pockets. If they have gotten deeper, more treatment may be needed.<br />
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Good dental care at home is essential to help keep gum disease from becoming more serious or recurring. <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/brushing-your-teeth">Brush your teeth twice a day</a> with a soft brush, <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/f/Flossing%20Steps">clean between your teeth daily</a>, <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/nutrition/">eat a balanced diet</a>, <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/smoking-and-tobacco">avoid using tobacco</a> and <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/dental-care-concerns/questions-about-going-to-the-dentist/">see your dentist regularly</a>.<br />
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To read the entire article visit <a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/scaling-and-root-planing">mouthhealthy.org</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-57639866174911275462020-05-24T07:00:00.000-07:002020-05-24T07:00:05.772-07:00Dental Implants: A Permanent Tooth Replacement To Consider<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
Below is an excerpt from an article found on <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/implants/dental-implants-a-permanent-tooth-replacement-to-consider-0413">colgate.com</a><br />
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One of the most notable technological advances in dentistry has to be the development of dental implants. Prior to their launch, the only options available to people who had lost a tooth were bridges or dentures. Dental implants offer an attractive and comfortable solution for those who have lost a tooth to decay or injury, providing a permanent replacement option that looks and feels like a real tooth.<br />
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<b>Advantages of Dental Implants</b><br />
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Because a dental implant feels and looks like a normal tooth, it can do wonders for a patient's self-esteem. Many people who were shy about smiling due to a space from a lost tooth feel perfectly comfortable after a dental implant. Beyond the aesthetics, a dental implant also makes it easier to eat and speak, since a titanium post secured directly in the jaw holds the implant in place. Thus, an implant doesn't come loose like a denture. Dental implants also benefit general oral health since they do not have to be anchored to other teeth, like bridges.<br />
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<b>Dental Implant Success Rates</b><br />
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Dental implant success can depend on where the missing teeth are located, but the average success rate is more than 95 percent, according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS). Because the implant penetrates the jaw bone and gum, certain people may not be a good fit for the procedure, such as those who smoke or suffer from diabetes. Your dentist will be able to evaluate whether dental implants are right for you.<br />
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<b>Caring for a Dental Implant</b><br />
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Good oral health habits are required for the implant to be a success. Teeth must be flossed and brushed and regular dental visits should be made. It should be noted that most insurance companies do not cover the cost of a dental implant, and it can cost between $1000 to $2,000 per tooth and there is an additional cost for the crown that is attached to the dental implant. If you are missing a tooth and believe a dental implant might be the right solution for you, start by consulting your dentist.<br />
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To read the entire article visit <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/implants/dental-implants-a-permanent-tooth-replacement-to-consider-0413">colgate.com</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div>
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Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-73884080582901894542020-05-15T07:00:00.000-07:002020-05-15T07:00:02.968-07:00Hormones and Dental Health: What Every Woman Needs to Know<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
Below is an excerpt from an article found on <a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/h/hormones">mouthhealthy.org</a><br />
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Your weight. Your mood. Your sex drive. Your dental health. There’s one thing that can make all these aspects of your health go haywire — hormones.<br />
<br />
You may be surprised to learn that hormone surges may make you more vulnerable to <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/g/gum-disease">gum disease</a>. Here’s why: More female hormones (estrogen and progesterone) cause more blood to flow to your gums, which causes them to become more sensitive and “overreact” to anything that may irritate them. “Women are more sensitive to the presence of <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/p/plaque">plaque</a> and bacteria around the gums when the hormone levels are high,” says ADA dentist Dr. Sally Cram. “This can cause your gums to become inflamed, swell and bleed. If left untreated, ongoing inflammation in the gums can also lead to bone loss around the teeth and eventual tooth loss.”<br />
<br />
Your hormones are a fact of life, but gum disease not so much. It’s actually preventable and reversible in its early stages. So what’s a woman to do? Start by paying extra attention and taking good care of your mouth during these five times in your life.<br />
<br />
<b>Puberty</b><br />
Raging hormones can leave a teenage girl’s gums red, swollen and bleeding. (In some cases, the gums’ overreaction to plaque may cause gums to actually grow bigger.) Some teenage girls may also find themselves developing <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/c/canker-sores">canker sores</a>, which usually heal on their own.<br />
<br />
The best treatment? Prevention. “Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, floss once a day and see your dentist regularly,” Dr. Cram says. “Removing plaque and bacteria thoroughly every day can reduce the inflammation, discomfort and bleeding.”<br />
<br />
<b>Your Period</b><br />
You may not notice any change in your mouth in the days before your period. (If fact, most women don’t). But if you have swollen gums, bleeding gums, canker sores or swollen salivary glands, hormones may be to blame. These symptoms should subside after your period stops — but if they don’t, then the increased bleeding by your gums is signaling something else. Talk to your dentist if you have questions about how your monthly cycle and apparent health of your gums are related.<br />
<br />
Stay on top of your daily dental health routine, and if you find you have more sensitivity than usual before or during your period, schedule cleanings for about a week after it ends.<br />
<br />
<b>Using Birth Control Pills</b><br />
Inflammation may have been a side effect for women taking birth control in the past, but today there’s good news for your gums. The levels of estrogen and progesterone in today’s birth control prescriptions are too low to cause any issues with your gums, according to a February 2013 review in the journal <i><a href="http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1600-0757.2012.00442.x/full">Periodontology 2000</a></i>.<br />
<br />
Still, it’s important make sure your health history forms at the dentist are up to date if you are taking birth control. Here’s why:<br />
<ul>
<li>Your dentist may need to write you a prescription, and some medications can make your birth control less effective. </li>
<li>If you’re having a tooth removed, you may be more at risk for a painful complication called dry socket. According to the June 2016 <a href="http://jada.ada.org/article/S0002-8177(16)00066-0/fulltext"><i>Journal of the American Dental Association</i></a>, women who use oral contraceptives are nearly twice as likely to experience dry socket compared to those who do not. Of 100 women who took birth control, 13.9 experienced dry socket. Only 7.54 of 100 women who did not take birth control had this complication.</li>
</ul>
<b>Pregnancy</b><br />
During <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/pregnancy/">pregnancy</a>, your body is in hormonal hyper drive. Some women find they have developed pregnancy gingivitis — a mild form of gum disease that causes gums to be red, tender and sore. It is most common between the second and eighth months of pregnancy, and you can help keep it under control through good daily habits. “Stay on top of your brushing, stay on top of your flossing and be meticulous about the care of your entire body,” says ADA dentist Dr. Alice Boghosian.<br />
<br />
Visiting your dentist during pregnancy is incredibly important — and <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/pregnancy/concerns">absolutely safe</a>. In fact, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings during your second trimester and early third trimester to help control gingivitis. If you notice any other changes in your mouth during pregnancy, see your dentist.<br />
<br />
<b>Menopause </b><br />
Menopause is a huge change in a woman’s life and a woman’s mouth, including altered taste, burning sensations in your mouth and increased sensitivity. “They’re all related to hormones,” Dr. Boghosian says.<br />
<br />
Still, there are two critical changes to be aware of: <a href="http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/d/dry-mouth">dry mouth</a> and bone loss. “Saliva cleanses the teeth and rinses cavity-causing bacteria off your teeth,” Dr. Boghosian says. “When you have dry mouth, your saliva flow decreases and you’re more at risk for cavities.”<br />
<br />
Talk to your dentist if your mouth is feeling dry. “If dry mouth is a problem, suck on ice chips or sugar-free candy, drink water or other caffeine-free drinks and use an over-the-counter dry mouth spray or rinse to help reduce the dryness,” Dr. Cram says. “Your dentist may also recommend prescription strength fluoride toothpaste that helps reduce the risk of tooth decay.”<br />
<br />
What you eat can also make a difference when it comes to dry mouth. Avoid salty, spicy, sticky and sugary foods, as well as and dry foods that are hard to chew. Alcohol, tobacco and caffeine can also make dry mouth worse. At night, sleeping with a humidifier on in your room can also make a difference.<br />
<br />
Losing bone in your jaw can lead to tooth loss. “The decreased estrogen that occurs with menopause also puts you at risk for a loss of bone density,” Dr. Boghosian says. “Signs of bone loss in your jaw can be something as simple as receding gums. When your gums recede, more of your tooth is exposed and that puts more of your tooth at risk for decay. And if your mouth is dry, that’s a double whammy.”<br />
<br />
To help reduce your risk of bone loss, work with your dentist or physician to make sure you’re getting the right amount of calcium and vitamin D, don’t smoke and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.<br />
<br />
To read the entire article visit <a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/h/hormones">mouthhealthy.org</a><br />
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-37226643289124229602020-05-06T07:00:00.000-07:002020-05-06T07:00:00.186-07:00Erupted Tooth: Pericoronitis Symptoms and Treatment<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
Below is an excerpt from an article found on <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/wisdom-teeth/erupted-tooth-pericoronitis-symptoms-treatment">crest.com</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4FA2uy92WRpsj6Y3xl5Wnstxqs5ksgh14uuaRNeyvsnaWt_41I6XGDscMrkTSDlpDA1h_AIhyphenhyphen6dH6DXgcWXah8pDeojw-sOGnG9X4HMlWryQFPYFUbqoLXnNLfMIPvxBrceq42Bu4oeM/s1600/erupted_tooth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4FA2uy92WRpsj6Y3xl5Wnstxqs5ksgh14uuaRNeyvsnaWt_41I6XGDscMrkTSDlpDA1h_AIhyphenhyphen6dH6DXgcWXah8pDeojw-sOGnG9X4HMlWryQFPYFUbqoLXnNLfMIPvxBrceq42Bu4oeM/s320/erupted_tooth.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>What is Pericoronitis?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Since <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/wisdom-teeth/what-are-wisdom-teeth-purpose-symptoms-when-they-come-in">wisdom teeth</a> come in during late adolescence, pericoronitis is a form of <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/gums/gum-disease-symptoms-causes-treatments">gum disease </a>that usually affects those between the ages of twenty and forty. Often the wisdom teeth are not able to come out fully due to a lack of room in the mouth, leading to a partially erupted tooth. The partial tooth eruption then leads to inflammation and i<a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/gums/gum-infection-symptoms-treatment-prevention">nfection of the soft tissue</a> which surrounds it.<br />
<br />
<b>Symptoms of Pericoronitis</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Symptoms often vary from one individual to the next and can occur chronically or acutely.<br />
Those suffering from chronic or reoccurring pericoronitis may experience:<br />
<ul>
<li>Mild discomfort around the affected area</li>
<li>Dull toothache</li>
<li><a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/wisdom-teeth/what-are-wisdom-teeth-purpose-symptoms-when-they-come-in">Bad breath</a></li>
<li>A foul taste in the mouth</li>
</ul>
Symptoms last for 1 to 2 days but continuously reappear without proper treatment.<br />
Acute pericoronitis is usually caused by poor oral hygiene. This is relatively common since the wisdom teeth, located toward the back of the mouth, can be difficult to clean with manual brushing alone. Symptoms may include:<br />
<ul>
<li>Pus discharge from affected area</li>
<li>Pain when swallowing</li>
<li>Extensive pain making it difficult to sleep</li>
<li>Swelling of the face</li>
<li>Swollen lymph nodes under the chin</li>
<li>Fever</li>
</ul>
Acute pericoronitis symptoms usually last about three to four days.<br />
<br />
<b>Treatment for Pericoronitis</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
The condition can be hard to treat due to the gum flap which has resulted from the partially erupted tooth. Often, the issue won’t go away completely until the tooth fully erupts from the gum line, or the tooth/soft tissue has been removed.<br />
<br />
For mild cases, a dentist may recommend the following treatments:<br />
<ul>
<li>Comprehensive cleaning</li>
<li>Removing any food, debris, or residue trapped inside the gum flap</li>
<li>Draining of the pus to reduce inflammation</li>
<li>Rinsing with a <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/products/mouthwash/crest-pro-health-intense-fresh-mint-mouthwash">fluoride mouthwash</a> containing an antibacterial agent such as CPC (Cetyl-pyridinium chloride) or salt mixture </li>
<li>Antibiotics to manage the infection </li>
</ul>
As with any form of gum disease, you should always follow a thorough oral care routine of brushing twice a day and flossing at least once. If your symptoms persist, see your dental professional right away. It is crucial to treat any sign of infection as soon as possible before it spreads to other areas of the mouth and jawline.<br />
<br />
To read the entire article visit <a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/wisdom-teeth/erupted-tooth-pericoronitis-symptoms-treatment">crest.com</a><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div>
Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-13072213634172137682020-04-24T07:00:00.000-07:002020-04-24T07:00:08.634-07:00Sleep Apnea and Snoring<span id="docs-internal-guid-1a6260fb-7fff-038d-ca7c-320ed068ff06" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Below is an excerpt from an article found on </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #38761d; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 9pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/sleep-apnea-and-snoring" style="text-decoration-line: none;">mouthhealthy.org</a></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-dhdmi1Wz55ix6ndgKNFLOkwKFsHtaQAbAT_10lcvpD0lkwzivA6y7vkPb3Q6bSXNgtv7PFJf1Qcy1GdnTd0IVYIcaviv5X8A2x5N2fnTdAf5fA9XTNNc7OYPXMxFDVz4_rCN4Ed5no/s1600/Sleep+Apnea+%2526+Snoring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-dhdmi1Wz55ix6ndgKNFLOkwKFsHtaQAbAT_10lcvpD0lkwzivA6y7vkPb3Q6bSXNgtv7PFJf1Qcy1GdnTd0IVYIcaviv5X8A2x5N2fnTdAf5fA9XTNNc7OYPXMxFDVz4_rCN4Ed5no/s1600/Sleep+Apnea+%2526+Snoring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-dhdmi1Wz55ix6ndgKNFLOkwKFsHtaQAbAT_10lcvpD0lkwzivA6y7vkPb3Q6bSXNgtv7PFJf1Qcy1GdnTd0IVYIcaviv5X8A2x5N2fnTdAf5fA9XTNNc7OYPXMxFDVz4_rCN4Ed5no/s320/Sleep+Apnea+%2526+Snoring.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 16pt; margin-top: 11pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sleep apnea is a common and serious sleeping disorder that happens when your regular breathing is interrupted during sleep. Snoring is common among patients with sleep apnea but not all snorers have sleep apnea.</span></div>
<h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">There are two main types of sleep apnea:</span></span></h4>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Obstructive sleep apnea.</span><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The more common form, it is the result of blocked airflow during sleep, usually when the soft tissue at the back of the throat collapses while you sleep. Health factors, such as obesity may contribute.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Central sleep apnea.</span><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Results from a problem with how the brain signals the breathing muscles. The airway is not blocked, instead the brain fails to signal the muscles to breath. This type of sleep apnea can occur with conditions such as heart failure, brain tumors, brain infections, and stroke. </span></li>
</ul>
<h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Sleep apnea can affect anyone at any age, although men are more likely to develop the disorder. The risk is also greater for those:</span></span></h4>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">over 40</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">overweight</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">with large tonsils, large tongue or small jaw</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">with a family history of sleep apnea</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">with a nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum, allergies or sinus problems.</span></li>
</ul>
<h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">If left untreated, sleep apnea can result in a number of health problems including:</span></span></h4>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">high blood pressure</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">stroke</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">heart failure, irregular heartbeat and heart attack</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">diabetes</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">depression</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">worsening of ADHD.</span></li>
</ul>
<h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Sleep apnea can be treated. There are several options:</span></span></h4>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adjusting sleeping habits.</span><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> This may mean simply not sleeping on your back</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Continuous positive air pressure (CPAP).</span><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> This is a device which improves breathing while you sleep. The device supplies air through the nasal passages and the air pressure keeps the airway open while sleeping.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Oral appliances.</span><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Certain oral devices can shift and support the jaw to prevent the airway from collapsing. Research shows that oral appliances can successfully prevent sleep apnea in some mild to moderate cases.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Surgery.</span><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> According to the </span><a href="https://www.aadsm.org/for_patients.php" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; text-decoration-line: none; white-space: pre;"><span style="color: #0077c3; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine</span></a><span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> upper airway surgery may be recommended when other treatment options are unsuccessful in eliminating the symptoms of sleep apnea. Depending on the location and nature of the airway obstruction, the procedure may be minimally invasive or more complex. It may be necessary to remove the tonsils or other parts of the soft palate or throat.</span></li>
</ul>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 16pt; margin-top: 11pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you think you have sleep apnea, make sure to speak with your physician or dentist for more information and possible evaluation.</span></div>
<span style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-957078bc-7fff-8f70-1965-1bc8753f7bcf" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To read the entire article visit </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #38761d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/sleep-apnea-and-snoring" style="text-decoration-line: none;">mouthhealthy.org</a></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div>
Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-1382299522228610862020-04-15T07:00:00.000-07:002020-04-15T07:00:02.325-07:00Leukoplakia: Why do you have white gums?<span id="docs-internal-guid-a9b119d2-7fff-c2e3-ddbc-c5ce308ea0f7" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Below is an excerpt from an article found on </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 9pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/gums/leukoplakia-white-gums" style="text-decoration-line: none;">crest.com</a></span></span><br />
<span style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></span>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgERwo7K0biu5HMkt-mCoM2VksIaE4-4SSeKWH6M2pDLpk1geb21r5MXEVN4JJmnX9QMsksIIqq5t8nJ9mZSJGputwvSYlQVRg6Q7VMP9YZSyfYERRP_cy1sBq3zqr6vODedsl0dKf0SXs/s1600/Leukoplakia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="251" data-original-width="700" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgERwo7K0biu5HMkt-mCoM2VksIaE4-4SSeKWH6M2pDLpk1geb21r5MXEVN4JJmnX9QMsksIIqq5t8nJ9mZSJGputwvSYlQVRg6Q7VMP9YZSyfYERRP_cy1sBq3zqr6vODedsl0dKf0SXs/s320/Leukoplakia.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1d4486; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Leukoplakia: What You Should Know</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 8pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Leukoplakia is an oral disease where white or gray patches show up on or around the gums, inside of the cheeks, on the bottom of the mouth, and sometimes on the tongue. These patches are the mouth’s reaction to irritation of the sensitive mucous membranes in the mouth.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you’ve seen these patches in your mouth, you should make an appointment with your dentist or doctor. They can help identify what’s causing it as well as help you treat it.</span></div>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 15pt 0pt 5.25pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1d4486; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What Causes Leukoplakia?</span></h2>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Outside of knowing that leukoplakia is the body’s reaction to irritation inside the mouth, there isn’t a specific cause that scientists have identified. However, there are some triggers that can make it more likely.</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Long-term tobacco usage (the most common trigger)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Long-term alcohol usage</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Broken or ill-fitting dental appliances, fillings, or crowns</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Injury from jagged or broken teeth </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Underlying diseases like oral cancer or HIV/AIDS</span></li>
</ul>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 15pt 0pt 5.25pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1d4486; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What Are The Symptoms of Leukoplakia?</span></h2>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">White or gray colored patches on your gums or tongue, the inside of your cheeks, or bottom of your mouth are a sign of leukoplakia. These patches may be flat or irregularly textured, and can be thickened or hardened in some places. Leukoplakia isn’t usually painful, but it can be sensitive to touch, heat, irritation, and spicy or acidic foods. Unlike some other oral diseases, leukoplakia can’t be wiped or brushed away.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There is also a second kind of leukoplakia called “hairy leukoplakia.” In this variety, the patches are usually on the sides of the tongue and take on a fuzzy appearance.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In some cases, both types of leukoplakia are also accompanied by raised, red lesions, which can be a sign of other diseases.</span></div>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2705882352941176; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 15pt 0pt 5.25pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1d4486; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How to Treat Leukoplakia</span></h2>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The best way to treat leukoplakia is to remove the source of irritation that’s causing it, either by stopping or reducing tobacco and alcohol usage or fixing dental appliances. It’s a good idea to address these issues with the help of your dentist or doctor, since they may want to run tests to rule out underlying illnesses. You will definitely need to see them in the case of hairy leukoplakia since an antiviral medication is required. And though leukoplakia usually heals on its own, you may have to have oral surgery to remove the patches.</span></div>
<span style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2a843a0f-7fff-4166-4eee-0d8103acfc07" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /><span style="color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 9pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To read the entire article visit </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 9pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/gums/leukoplakia-white-gums" style="text-decoration-line: none;">crest.com</a></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: times; font-size: 13.2px; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div>
Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-30654475629352885632020-04-06T07:00:00.000-07:002020-04-06T07:00:18.047-07:00What Are Veneers And How Should You Care For Them?<span id="docs-internal-guid-702c79ad-7fff-fdad-3526-f04e554cbdce" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Below is an excerpt from an article found on </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 9pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/veneers/what-are-veneers-and-how-should-you-care-for-them-0814" style="text-decoration-line: none;">colgate.com</a></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUIpBO8IKHNn-Ae0Z9Sn4mvfw9M3foCjGEY84-6oECAXtf1rMpqvfVPzuhDfsECYAW14ZS0-sdbAK-DCMDeSLAEmBkTQXV3E5dRQCwkCyvQt57pJcV201tM6vXhkqUhutvQd-FFHFQI28/s1600/Veneers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUIpBO8IKHNn-Ae0Z9Sn4mvfw9M3foCjGEY84-6oECAXtf1rMpqvfVPzuhDfsECYAW14ZS0-sdbAK-DCMDeSLAEmBkTQXV3E5dRQCwkCyvQt57pJcV201tM6vXhkqUhutvQd-FFHFQI28/s1600/Veneers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUIpBO8IKHNn-Ae0Z9Sn4mvfw9M3foCjGEY84-6oECAXtf1rMpqvfVPzuhDfsECYAW14ZS0-sdbAK-DCMDeSLAEmBkTQXV3E5dRQCwkCyvQt57pJcV201tM6vXhkqUhutvQd-FFHFQI28/s320/Veneers.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 9pt; margin-top: 9pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The right veneers are a quick way to a beautiful smile, and this treatment is perfect for people with teeth that are stained, chipped or have gaps. But veneers are an irreversible treatment, so having them placed is a big decision. Before you and your dentist decide the procedure is right for you, it's important to have the right information about veneers, their cost and how best to care for them.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 9pt; margin-top: 9pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What are Veneers?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 9pt; margin-top: 9pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">According to the </span><a href="http://www.aacd.com/veneers" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a veneer is a "thin piece of porcelain used to re-create the natural look of teeth, while also providing strength and resilience comparable to natural tooth enamel." They are custom made to the contour of your teeth and are bonded to the tooth's original enamel during a series of in-office procedures.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 9pt; margin-top: 9pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Why are Veneers Used in Dentistry?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Veneers are a less intrusive option than crowns or braces. According to the </span><a href="http://www.dentalhealth.org/tell-me-about/topic/cosmetic-dentistry/veneers" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">British Dental Health Foundation</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, veneers can be used to close gaps or correct small misalignments. Patients also choose veneers as a comestic solution to enhance the brightness of their teeth and to straighten their smile, correcting issues like discoloration, fractures, or chips.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Porcelain Veneers</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The most commonly used material for veneers are the conventional porcelain veneer and Lumineers and composite resin veneers. </span><a href="http://www.aacd.com/veneers" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">AACD</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, porcelain veneers are preferable for correcting issues of shape or color and can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. They can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,000 per tooth depending on what part of the United States you live in, which can be a major expense for most consumers, so it's important to know they will need to be replaced eventually.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Placing Veneers</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The typical process takes one to two appointments. If the veneer is prefabricated it usually takes one appointment and if the laboratory is creating the veneer it takes two appointments. We will focus on highlighting placement of the porcelain veneer created by the laboratory:</span></div>
<ol>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Local anesthetia is not usually required when placing veneers. However, depending on the patient's sensitivity, it can be used if needed. The dentist will clean the tooth and determine the correct shade for the veneer. The dentist will remove a very small amount of the enamel of the tooth to provide room to place the veneer on the tooth.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">An impression of the tooth will be made for the laboratory and a temporary veneer will be placed on the tooth with spot etching in the center of the tooth away from the margins.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">After the laboratory has delivered the porcelain veneer to your dentist, the temporary veneer is removed, the tooth is cleaned with pumice and water. The veneer is then etched, rinsed throughly with water and air dried. The adhesive is placed on the preparation and then the cement and the veneer is placed for exact fit and contour.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">The veneer is then light cured for 60 seconds on all surfaces of it to attach it to the tooth structure.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Your dentist will remove any excess material and polish the margins of the veneer.</span></li>
</ol>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Many dentists will schedule a follow-up visit to check for comfort; a comfortable veneer will be a long-lasting veneer.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Care for Veneers</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 9pt; margin-top: 9pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The AACD suggests brushing and flossing just as you would your regular teeth. Proper daily brushing, and use of non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste. Consider limiting coffee and other stain-inducing foods.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Keep in mind that veneers will need to be replaced at some point, no matter how well you take care of them. But proper oral hygiene will help them last as long as possible.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you're deciding on veneers, consult with your dentist and be sure you understand every part of the process and cost. A beautiful smile feels great and can increase both your confidence and well-being.</span></div>
<span style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-e43a73aa-7fff-77fd-9abc-c867885232a4" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To read the entire article visit </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #cc0000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/veneers/what-are-veneers-and-how-should-you-care-for-them-0814" style="text-decoration-line: none;">colgate.com</a></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div>
Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329050697192630224.post-90149899121164671562020-03-24T07:00:00.000-07:002020-03-24T07:00:05.274-07:00Tooth Extraction: Procedure, Healing, & Complications<span id="docs-internal-guid-47e6e54d-7fff-fd20-2e09-8a553e62e3d8" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="color: #707070; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Below is an excerpt from an article found on </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/toothache/tooth-extraction-procedure-healing-complications" style="text-decoration-line: none;">crest.com</a></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvxIi-cCIe3n70ZZahLmEZ9KIFSIGRUSocSK2dkd5UdPNnYndEpiIHEI8RfGYYj-AtMvrfpP_ShFAs-7czM7WrjX24dkaCcJA3tC0d_pF-y0mszzBiPRXadaQYs6hXhZj3rmCYH6v2Bo4/s1600/Tooth+Extraction.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="251" data-original-width="700" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvxIi-cCIe3n70ZZahLmEZ9KIFSIGRUSocSK2dkd5UdPNnYndEpiIHEI8RfGYYj-AtMvrfpP_ShFAs-7czM7WrjX24dkaCcJA3tC0d_pF-y0mszzBiPRXadaQYs6hXhZj3rmCYH6v2Bo4/s320/Tooth+Extraction.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A tooth extraction is an outpatient procedure performed by a dentist. In some cases pulling teeth (removing a tooth completely from its spot in the jaw bone), may be necessary to preserve or improve your dental health.</span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-da965652-7fff-6882-bb77-2e69357335b1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></b>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Some of the reasons for tooth extraction include:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d4a7e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pulling teeth for braces:</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Preparation for orthodontia (braces and retainers) often involves pulling one tooth or a few teeth.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d4a7e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pulling teeth to save space:</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/wisdom-teeth/wisdom-teeth-removal-extraction-surgery" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; text-decoration-line: none; white-space: pre;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d4486; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wisdom teeth are often removed</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> if there is no space for them in the mouth, or if they become impacted or infected.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d4a7e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pulling teeth due to damage or decay:</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Tooth extraction may be the only option if a tooth is too decayed or damaged to be repaired with a filling or crown.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d4a7e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pulling teeth in radiation or chemotherapy patients:</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> If radiation or chemotherapy to the head and neck causes teeth to become infected, pulling teeth may be necessary.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #073763; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tooth Extraction Procedure: Getting a Tooth Pulled</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When you undergo a tooth extraction procedure, your dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic. You may also receive an anti-anxiety medication or an intravenous sedative. If the dental extraction involves an impacted tooth, the tooth may be broken into pieces before it is removed.</span></div>
<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></b>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pulling teeth falls into two basic categories: simple and surgical. Here’s what to expect from each:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d4a7e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Simple:</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> A simple tooth extraction involves the removal of a tooth that is visible in the mouth. This could mean removing a badly damaged or decayed tooth, or removing teeth prior to getting braces. General dentists can do simple tooth extractions. When you undergo simple tooth extraction, you will receive local anesthesia. In addition, some dental professionals administer anti-anxiety medication or use conscious sedation for simple cases of pulling teeth. In most cases, over-the-counter pain medication is sufficient for pain management after these procedures.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d4a7e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Surgical:</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Surgical tooth extraction is an operation by an oral surgeon involving removal of teeth that are not visible in the mouth, because they have not come in or because the tooth has broken off. Individuals with special medical conditions may receive general anesthesia when pulling teeth involving surgery. You may also receive prescription pain medication for use immediately after surgical teeth-pulling procedures.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #073763; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tooth</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #073763; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Extraction</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #073763; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Healing</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #073763; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">and</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #073763; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Recovery</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After any type of tooth extraction, be sure to follow your dental professional’s instructions for oral care, including the following tips:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d4a7e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eat Soft Foods:</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Stick primarily to liquids until any anesthesia wears off, and then limit your diet to soft foods for the first few days after a tooth extraction.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d4a7e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Take care of your teeth:</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Don’t brush the teeth immediately next to the area of tooth extraction on the first day after the procedure, but do brush the rest of your teeth. Two days after a tooth extraction, get back to a </span><a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/why-crest/faq/how-to-properly-brush-your-teeth" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; text-decoration-line: none; white-space: pre;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d4486; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">good oral care routine</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #073763; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tooth Extraction Complications</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Dry socket” occurs in approximately 3-4% of teeth pulling cases. If a blood clot fails to form in the hole after pulling teeth, or if the blood clot breaks off too soon, the underlying bone is exposed, creating a dry socket. This condition can be painful and should be treated as soon as possible with a medicated bandage to promote healing.</span></div>
<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></b>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Other potential problems associated with pulling teeth include:</span></div>
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<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d4a7e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sore Jaw:</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Your jaw may be sore due to anesthesia or to the strain of keeping your mouth open during the procedure.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d4a7e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Numb Lips and Chin:</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> If the reason for pulling teeth was removal of lower wisdom teeth, your lower lip or chin may be numb for several months if a nerve in that area (the inferior alveolar nerve) was traumatized.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d4a7e; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Infection:</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Infection is always a possibility after pulling teeth, but it is unlikely in individuals who have healthy immune systems.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="color: #707070; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To read the entire article visit </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/toothache/tooth-extraction-procedure-healing-complications" style="text-decoration-line: none;">crest.com</a></span></span></div>
<span style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></span></span>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOI</a></b> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">417 Water Street </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wakefield, MA 01880 </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(781) 245-7714</span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </b></div>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://wakefieldfamilydentist.com/" style="color: #0066a4; text-decoration-line: none;">WakefieldFamilyDentist.com</a></b></div>
Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, DICOIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08674286123002859933noreply@blogger.com0