Tag smiles of arcadia

One of the first dental treatments many patients have will be the application of tooth sealant. Dental sealants provide teeth with exceptional protection against decay and wear. Patients often report surprise at how quickly the sealant is applied and how comfortable it proves to be. Still, before treatment, patients may wonder: how are dental sealants applied?

 

How Are Dental Sealants Applied?

A dentist can apply dental sealant in as few as five core steps. Most notably missing from the list is any anesthetic or drilling. Expect a pain-free treatment that protects your teeth and your smile.

 

Step 1: Cleaning the Tooth

Sealing off a tooth from decay will hardly help if it seals in bacteria. We use a special cleaning toothpaste to remove any lingering buildup on the tooth. We take extra care with kids to ensure a comfortable process. This initial cleaning is a necessary part of preparation for dental sealant application.

 

Step 2: Roughing Up the Tooth

Despite the name of this step, it is incredibly gentle. We apply a gentle acidic solution to etch the tooth. When we say acidic, we want to emphasize this solution does not hurt or damage the tooth.

This etching solution only creates a surface more suited to adhere to the sealant. The sealant will better bond with the rougher surface of the tooth for stable results.

 

Step 3: Rinse

With the tooth roughed up, we want to clear away anything lingering on the tooth again. We thoroughly rinse out the etching solution. Then we let the tooth dry. For this part, think of painting a wall. Trying to paint a wet wall certainly will not help the paint stick. A dry tooth ensures that the sealant can make direct and lasting contact with the tooth surface.

 

Step 4: Applying the Sealant

Finally, we arrive at the actual sealant. The sealant starts as a thin liquid coating that we spread evenly over the targeted parts of the tooth. Again, the process involves no pain or drilling. Your dentist will take care to ensure they cover each part of the tooth.

 

Step 5: Curing the Sealant

A liquid layer over a tooth will not last long. To return to the paint metaphor, you only finish painting a room once the paint dries. With paint, you have no choice but to sit and wait. With sealants, we fast-track the drying with a special curing process.

Again, this step involves nothing troublesome. We can harden the sealant material using only a special light. The materials in the sealant react to the light by hardening rapidly. As the sealant hardens, your dentist can make minor adjustments to the sealant shape to ensure a good fit.

 

How Long Does the Application Take?

We have established that applying sealants requires no pain or drilling. What is even better is that it is quick. An experienced dentist will spend only a few minutes with each tooth. That means your kid will not have to sit through a long, tortuous treatment, and you can get back to your day.

 

A Gentle Treatment Ideal for Kids

While a child will lose all their baby teeth, they still need to maintain oral health. Early tooth decay can lead to lasting oral health issues. Additionally, a child whose first dental treatment is a filling may develop persistent dental anxiety. While this will not always happen, we have seen it often enough.

Dental sealants offer a smooth transition into other dental treatments for children. When applying dental sealants to a child’s tooth, we use no drills or other potentially frightening tools. Even kids need no numbing for the treatment.

 

When to Start Applying Dental Sealants

With this quick procedure, your kid can feel in control of their oral health. Of course, we do not consider the treatment obligatory for younger kids who are not at risk for cavities. Sealants can prove helpful even for kids showing signs of decay, even for baby teeth. Still, we recommend that all kids have sealants at two points in childhood. 

• First sealants around age 6 for their first set of permanent molars
• Second sealants once their second molars come in at around age 12

 

Dental Sealants for All Ages

Choosing to have dental sealants can give your or your child’s teeth a significant advantage. Make a quick call to your local dentist to set up your appointment and give your teeth a head start.

 

A gummy smile treatment is a procedure that can be life-changing for some people, boosting their confidence and presentation. But is gummy smile correction painful? In our article, we answer this question and discuss the procedure and the recovery.

 

Is Gummy Smile Correction Painful?

The procedure of gummy smile correction is typically not painful since, in most cases, the surgery site is numbed with a local anesthetic. Modern anesthetics are highly effective and prevent most patients from feeling anything at all. 

Sedation dentistry is available for patients who have a high tolerance to local anesthetics. It can also be helpful to people with acute anxiety about dental procedures. Sedation dentistry helps patients feel relaxed and at ease during the procedure. There are several types of sedation dentistry available:

• Oral sedation that is administered by taking a pill by mouth
• Intravenous sedation
• Nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) that is inhaled through a mask
• General anesthesia 

Talk to your doctor about the anesthetic and sedation options they can offer. 

 

What Happens During a Gummy Smile Correction Procedure?

A gummy smile procedure can be done using different methods: gum contouring using a laser or a scalpel or lip repositioning surgery. In some cases, these methods can be combined. An orthodontic treatment can also be beneficial for some patients in combination with gum contouring or lip repositioning. 

 

Gum Contouring

Before the procedure of gum contouring, you will have a consultation with your dentist and discuss the look you want to achieve with this treatment. Also, you will have an exam on your oral health during this visit. Your dentist will need to make sure that you do not have any cavities, periodontitis, or other issues. If any of these problems are present, you will have to treat them before gum contouring can be done.

At the beginning of the procedure, your dentist will mark the gum tissue to make sure that the gum line looks unified. In addition, factors such as tooth wear and facial structure will be taken into account when deciding how much gum tissue should be removed, as the goal is to achieve a balanced and symmetrical look. 

Additionally, your dentist will check if you have excess bone tissue around your teeth, as it will cause your gums to grow back after the procedure. If there is excess bone tissue, it will be removed during the gum contouring procedure as well.

Before the surgery begins, a local anesthetic will be administered to numb the procedure site. Once your gums are numb, your doctor will remove the excess gum tissue to reveal more of your teeth’ surface. 

 

Lip Repositioning

In some cases, a gummy smile can be a result of the position of the upper lip or the way it moves when you smile. Therefore, surgical lip repositioning helps change the amount of gum visible when smiling by limiting the movement of the lip. 

This procedure takes approximately an hour and is performed under a local anesthetic that prevents the patient from feeling pain.

 

The Recovery After a Gummy Smile Correction

Once the anesthetic wears off, you will most likely start feeling some tenderness, soreness, or discomfort in the area of your gums or lip that got altered. You can also experience swelling. However, these symptoms typically go away within several days after the procedure as your gums or lips heal. 

Any excessive pain or discomfort can be remedied with over-the-counter pain medication, such as Ibuprofen. Recovery typically takes approximately a week. To minimize pain and discomfort during gummy smile correction recovery, follow these tips:

• Abstain from sports or other strenuous physical activities for about seven days after the procedure, as they can increase bleeding and swelling.
• Make sure to clean the surgical area well and to maintain thorough oral hygiene in general to prevent bacterial growth. Follow your dentist’s recommendations on how to brush and floss your teeth after the procedure. You might also be recommended an antibacterial mouthwash or antibiotics. 
• Avoid hard, crunchy, and sticky foods such as crackers, chips, nuts, etc. Such foods can damage your gums. Instead, adhere to a soft diet for several days after the gummy smile correction. Examples of a soft diet include yogurt, smoothies, soups, eggs, mashed potatoes, etc. 

 

Make an Appointment Today

If you are considering a gummy smile correction procedure, do not hesitate to sign up for a consultation at our dental office today. Our specialists will carry out a detailed examination of your case to offer you the best solution. We look forward to your visit to the Smiles of Arcadia dental office. 

Emergency dental care is aimed at helping patients who require immediate medical attention after having sustained an oral trauma or those who experience acute toothache due to infection. But how do you know when you should visit an emergency dentist or an emergency room? Please read our article to learn the difference.

 

Should You Visit an Emergency Dentist or an Emergency Room?

Both an emergency dental office and an emergency room provide immediate medical care. Typically, both are available 24 hours a day and do not require a preliminary appointment. However, there are differences in the type of services they provide and the kind of trauma or injury they are able to help you with. 

 

When to Go to an Emergency Dentist

An emergency dentist can provide services connected to restoring the health and function of your teeth and gums. The situations in which you should opt for an emergency dentist as opposed to an emergency room include:

 

Knocked Out Tooth

A tooth that is completely knocked out of its socket due to trauma can be restored and saved if you act quickly. Try to get to the emergency dental office within the first 20 to 60 minutes after the accident, bringing your knocked-out tooth with you. It is essential to properly store your teeth on the way to the dental office so that it survives. 

You must store your tooth in a clean container filled with milk or saliva. You can briefly rinse your tooth with water if it is dirty before putting it into the container. However, do not rub your tooth or remove any tissue particles from it. If your tooth is clean and it is possible to put it back into its socket, keep it in your mouth on your way to the dentist, but be careful not to swallow it.

 

Dislodged Tooth

If a dislodged tooth is secured in its socket in time, it has a good chance of healing and becoming stable again. Be careful not to disturb it even further on your way to the dental office, and avoid touching or moving it.

 

Broken, Cracked, or Chipped Tooth

A broken, cracked, or chipped tooth can be restored with dental bonding or other procedures. If possible, bring the pieces of your tooth to the dental office. Your doctor might be able to attach them back to your tooth and restore its function and appearance. The sooner you see the doctor, the better your chances of a successful restoration are.

 

Acute Toothache

Intense toothache is most likely a sign of infection within the tooth. If not addressed in time and treated with a proper procedure, it can lead to tooth loss. 

 

Dental Abscess

Dental abscesses are also caused by infection and look like pockets filled with pus. A dental abscess will not go away on its own and, in fact, can spread very quickly. Thus, an abscess in the mouth is always a reason to see an emergency dentist.

 

When to Go to an Emergency Room

If you go to an emergency room with one of the dental issues we listed above, you will most likely be provided with some pain management. Doctors at an emergency room can also help you with such symptoms as swelling and bruising. However, specialists in an emergency room are not likely to perform any dental procedures, such as root canal therapy, dental bonding, dental surgery, etc. They will be able to help you with facial injuries that do not concern teeth specifically. 

Cases when you need to go to an emergency room instead of an emergency dental office include:

 

An Emergency Dentist Is Unavailable

In cases when you need any kind of restorative dental procedure but an emergency dentist is unavailable, you can go to an emergency room. There, you will get help managing the symptoms, such as pain and swelling, until an emergency dentist can admit you.

 

You Have a Dislocated or Broken Jaw

A dislocated or broken jaw can lead to severe swelling and difficulty breathing. That is why you must go to an emergency room right away after receiving the injury.

 

You Have an Extensive Facial Trauma

Some accidents might lead to lacerations and wounds on the face, as well as broken bones. If you sustain such injuries, you should go to an emergency room.

 

Call Our Office in Case of a Dental Emergency

Do not hesitate to call our emergency dentistry in Arcadia if you need immediate medical attention. Specialists at Smiles of Arcadia offer a wide range of services aimed at restoring your oral health. We look forward to your visit.

Nowadays, there are a variety of options available for patients who want to straighten their teeth and boost the appearance of their smile. In this article, we discuss different types of orthodontic treatments, concentrating on the most common options.

 

What are the Different Types of Orthodontic Treatments?

 

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces typically consist of metal wires, bands, and brackets. The latter are attached to each tooth with a special bonding substance and connected by wires. Braces work by applying pressure to the teeth and thus gradually moving them into a desired position. Traditional metal braces are an effective treatment for patients of all ages. In some cases, if a patient does not have enough room in the mouth for the teeth to be aligned properly, some of the back teeth can be removed to create space prior to the orthodontic treatment.

Advantages of traditional metal braces include:

• Traditional braces are a highly efficient and reliable method of treatment. They are made of a highly durable metal and, therefore, can withstand significant pressure and move even severely overcrowded or crooked teeth.
• Traditional braces can successfully treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, such as overbites, underbites, gaps between teeth, overcrowded teeth, etc.

Unfortunately, traditional braces can have several disadvantages:

• Treatment with traditional braces requires frequent visits to the dental office for adjustment.
• Some patients find metal braces uncomfortable since they can rub the soft tissue in the mouth.
• It can be challenging to brush and floss your teeth with braces, and some patients might require additional tools, such as a water flosser, a floss threader, or an interdental brush to maintain clean teeth.
• Due to the possibility of insufficient oral hygiene, some patients might develop cavities during an orthodontic treatment with braces.
• In some cases, brackets that are attached to the teeth can leave stains on the teeth after they are taken off.
• Traditional braces are noticeable in the mouth when you talk or smile.
• Wearing braces might come with specific dietary restrictions, as you must avoid certain foods to ensure you do not damage them. For example, dentists recommend people with traditional braces abstain from any hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can stick to the braces or warp the metal.

 

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces, also known as hidden braces, are attached to the inner side of your teeth. Otherwise, they are very similar in appearance and mechanics to traditional braces.

Advantages of lingual braces include:

• Lingual braces are not noticeable in the mouth, which can be crucial for some patients.
• Lingual braces are generally effective for treating a variety of orthodontic issues.
• Lingual braces do not rub the inner side of your cheeks and lips (however, they still can rub the tongue.)
• Even if lingual braces cause teeth discoloration, it will not be noticeable when you talk or smile.

Disadvantages of lingual braces include:

• Lingual braces are more expensive than traditional braces because they require more control and precision from your dentist.
• Lingual braces can be hard to adjust to. They might cause a lisp, especially at the beginning of the treatment. 
• Lingual braces might not be as effective as traditional braces in some cases of severe orthodontic issues.
• Lingual braces might pose even more difficulty with brushing and flossing your teeth than traditional braces.

 

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are very similar to traditional braces. The main difference is that the brackets are made of tooth-colored ceramic material rather than metal and are less noticeable in the mouth. Consequently, ceramic braces are typically more expensive than traditional metal braces.

 

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners, or Invisalign, are becoming more and more popular. Many people opt for the trays made from transparent plastic instead of traditional braces due to several advantages of this treatment method:

• Clear aligners are much less noticeable in the mouth compared to traditional braces, as they are fully transparent and smooth.
• It is much easier to maintain oral hygiene with clear aligners, as you can remove them when brushing and flossing your teeth. As a result, there is less risk of developing tooth decay or gum disease while completing this orthodontic treatment.
• It is easy to clean the aligners.
• Having meals is less challenging and more enjoyable when wearing clear aligners, as you remove them when eating. Thus, you can enjoy a wide range of foods, including hard foods or crunchy foods.

Clear aligners also have several disadvantages:

• Clear aligners work best in more straightforward cases and might not be effective if a patient has severe and complex orthodontic issues.
• Clear aligners require strict discipline and must be worn for at least 22 hours a day to ensure their effectiveness. You can remove them only when eating and brushing your teeth. However, maintaining such rigorous discipline might be challenging for some people, especially when your teeth hurt. So, if you are not sure you can adhere to the recommendations, opt for traditional or non-removable braces.

 

Make an Appointment Today

Do not hesitate to make an appointment with a full-service dentist at Smiles of Arcadia. During the consultation, we will help you choose the orthodontic treatment method that is most suitable for your case. 

Losing a tooth can be very frustrating, especially when it leaves an unpleasant gap that can be seen while talking or smiling. A gap may not only cause issues when it comes to biting, chewing, or grinding food, but it can also decrease a person’s self-confidence when it is visible. Fortunately, the advancement of dental technology has allowed dental patients to save their teeth while relieving pain, eliminating bacteria, and preventing reinfection through a root canal performed by an endodontic dentist. While around 15 million root canals are done in the United States every year, many patients still shudder at the thought of having one. This is because of the common misconceptions surrounding root canals. If you are deliberating between a root canal and a tooth extraction, read the 5 myths about root canals below and uncover the truth about this routine procedure.

5 Myths About Root Canals

Myth 1: Root Canals Are Extremely Painful.

This is one of the most widely spread misconceptions. Patients usually think of pain when they think of root canals. Although this may have been true in the far past when dental technology and anesthesia were far less advanced, it is now so much farther from the truth. In fact, today’s root canals are no more painful than standard dental fillings. Patients report little to no discomfort during treatment, thanks to modern anesthesia techniques and innovative tools.

When a tooth becomes infected or severely decayed, this is often accompanied by excruciating and disabling pain. Through a root canal, the endodontist removes the infected tissue from inside the tooth and gets rid of the source of pain. You may feel mild discomfort after the procedure, but over-the-counter pain relievers can easily manage it. The pain or discomfort will subside after a few days. In contrast, if you do not undergo a root canal, the infection and pain may worsen, and tooth extraction may be the only way to relieve you of both.

Myth 2: Root Canals Cause Illness

This myth stems from a false claim made by poorly designed and debunked research from nearly a hundred years ago before modern science revealed the real causes of many illnesses and diseases. This research linked root canal to systemic diseases.

The truth is the direct opposite. Leaving a sick tooth without extraction or without root canal therapy can cause bacteria to spread and lead to serious health problems. Today’s endodontists use modern root canal procedures under stringent sanitation and sterilization protocols. This minimizes any potential risks. In fact, according to modern research, patients with multiple endodontic treatments had a 45% reduced risk of cancer.

Myth 3: Root Canals Take Several Long Appointments

This may have been true in the past, but it is no longer true today. With dental advancements and modern dental techniques, endodontists are now able to perform root canals in a single visit, which only takes 60-90 minutes. During this visit, your tooth can be cleaned, disinfected, and sealed. For more complicated cases, a second visit may be required.

Myth 4: Extraction Is Better than Root Canal

Some patients believe that tooth extraction is the better option because it is simpler and more convenient. While it is a simpler way to get rid of the pain caused by a problematic infected tooth, saving your natural tooth is still the better option.

Tooth extraction leaves a gap, which may cause your remaining teeth to move. Your speech, bite, and your ability to chew will be potentially affected. In addition, missing teeth may also cause bone loss in your jaw, which may change the structure of your face over time. If you have your teeth extracted, you will need an implant, a bridge, or dentures to restore function. This will also cost money and time. On the contrary, a root canal preserves your natural tooth, maintains your smile, and helps you avoid these issues.

Myth 5: Treated Teeth Do Not Last Long

One common false belief is that root canals eventually fail and extraction will be needed in the long run. The reality is that a root-canal-treated tooth can last a long time, just as long as a tooth that has never needed treatment. After performing the root canal procedure, your endodontist will seal your tooth with a filling and cover it with a crown. This will restore its strength and function and will allow you to speak, bite, and chew normally.

Although no dental treatment is guaranteed to last forever, root canals have a high success rate. Most patients have enjoyed the benefits of their restored tooth for decades, with good oral hygiene practices and regular visits to their dentist or endodontist.

Say Goodbye to Excruciating Pain

Now you understand the truth behind the myths about root canals. It is important to understand that many of these beliefs are outdated or inaccurate. Far from being painful or risky, a root canal is an effective way to get permanent pain relief while saving your tooth. If you have been putting off getting a root canal because of these misconceptions, it is time to talk to a licensed and skilled endodontist who can explain the procedure to you. Do not hesitate to voice out any concerns and ask any questions that have not yet been addressed by this post. Consult with us today.

Getting a dental crown can be daunting. Same-day porcelain crowns can be a great alternative to traditional crowns for many patients. In this article, we discuss the difference between same-day and traditional dental crowns to help you make an informed decision on what option is best for you. However, remember that only your dental specialist can provide you with definitive information after a thorough examination of your case.

The Differences Between Same-Day and Traditional Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are often placed after a root canal treatment. Both traditional and same-day dental crowns have the same function: they cover a tooth weakened by decay, reinforce its structure, and protect it from further damage for years to come. Also, both types of restoration require mild preparation of the tooth, which typically means that a small portion of the tooth’s enamel is removed to ensure that there is enough room for the crown to fit comfortably.

Nowadays, dental crowns are usually made of porcelain or similar materials that can be matched to the color and shade of your own teeth and look pretty natural in the mouth. In some cases, traditional crowns can be made of gold or silver, but they are less popular now. Both traditional and same-day dental crowns are pretty durable.

Traditional Dental Crowns

Getting traditional dental crowns typically requires several visits to a dental office: at least two appointments in most cases. During the first appointment, a mold of your tooth is taken, and a temporary crown is placed. A temporary dental crown is needed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being made. Then, it takes several days to custom-make a permanent crown that is placed and adjusted during the second visit. You might require follow-up visits to ensure that the crown fits comfortably. In some cases, you might need multiple impressions taken to create a crown that fits perfectly.

Same-day Dental Crowns

When you opt for a same-day dental crown, after preparing your tooth for receiving a crown, your doctor will use a computer program to generate a 3D impression of your tooth, which is used to create a comfortable-fitting dental crown that can be placed in the same appointment.

The grinding or milling techniques used in creating a same-day dental crown allow your dentist to have precise control over the procedure. Thus, same-day dental crowns typically fit well and are comfortable in the mouth. Some even consider same-day dental crowns to be more comfortable compared to traditional ones because the creation process is more precise.

The disadvantages of same-day dental crowns include several points:

• Not all dental offices provide same-day crowns because this type of crown requires the office to have special equipment, and the doctors should undergo training.
• In some cases, same-day dental crowns might be more expensive than traditional crowns.
• Typically, same-day dental crowns are made of ceramic material (porcelain), which limits your choice of materials. With traditional dental crowns, you can choose porcelain, gold, silver, or resin composite.

Recovery After Getting a Same-day Dental Crown

Recovery after getting a same-day dental crown typically takes several days. During this time, you might experience tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or soreness at the procedure site. However, these symptoms can be remedied with over-the-counter pain medication, such as Ibuprofen.

In addition, your dentist will most likely recommend abstaining from hard and crunchy foods for a couple of days and chewing your food carefully on the other side of the mouth. Salt rinses can be helpful in preventing infections, and you can use ice compresses to reduce swelling, if present.

If pain and discomfort do not go away in several days or intensify, contact your dentist and sign up for a follow-up checkup to exclude crown failure and complications.

Who Can Get Same-day Dental Crowns?

In most cases, any patient who is recommended a dental crown can get the same-day crown option. Dental crowns can be effectively used in the following cases:

• To protect the weakened tooth after a root canal treatment
• To restore a broken, cracked, or chipped tooth
• To restore and support a worn-down tooth
• To support a dental bridge
• To cover a dental implant
• To cover a severely stained or discolored tooth

Make an Appointment Today

Do not hesitate to make an appointment with a dentist in Arcadia today to get high-quality, same-day porcelain crowns. The methods and equipment used in our office allow us to provide our patients with comfortable and long-lasting solutions. We are looking forward to welcoming you to Smiles of Arcadia and helping you restore and preserve your oral health.

Modern sedation dentistry allows patients to undergo complicated dental procedures without discomfort and pain. Some people with acute dental anxiety can also benefit from these methods. But which dental procedures require sedation? In this article, we will answer this question and discuss the types of sedation commonly used in dentistry.

Which Dental Procedures Require Sedation?

In most cases, sedation is used when the procedure is complicated and time-consuming, requiring the patient to remain still for a long time. Such procedures include:

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is used to prompt the regeneration of the jaw bone and improve its density. This procedure can be recommended in preparation for dental implants or dentures. During the procedure, your doctor will make incisions in the gums to access the jaw bone and then place the grafts made of natural or medical synthetic material. In some cases, grafts are sourced from the patient’s own tissue. Once the grafts are placed, stitches are applied.

Dental Implants Placement

Dental implant placement can take quite a long time and requires precision, especially when more than one implant is placed at once. During the procedure, metal posts are inserted directly into the jawbone, where they fuse over time.

Tooth Extractions

In some cases, tooth extractions can be complicated due to the position of the teeth’s roots, leading to your dentist recommending sedation. 

Emergency Procedures

Accidents can cause severe oral trauma, including multiple knocked-out teeth, broken jaw, lacerations in the mouth, etc. If the injury is extensive and requires surgical treatment, your doctor is most likely to recommend sedation.

Depending on the patient and the patient’s pain tolerance, the procedures listed above can be performed without sedation and only use a local anesthetic.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is using one of the available sedatives to make a procedure as comfortable and painless for a patient as possible. In some cases, even if the procedure does not technically require sedation due to its difficulty, a patient can still opt for sedation if they experience acute dental anxiety. In general, sedation dentistry might be recommended for the following patients:

• People with a very low pain tolerance 
• People who have reactive gas reflex
• People who find it challenging to remain still in one position for a long time
• People who are undergoing invasive procedures or procedures that take an extensive period
• People with severe dental anxiety

Types of Sedation Used In Dentistry

Depending on the complexity of the case and the needs of a particular patient, a dental specialist might offer one of the following types of sedation:

IV Sedation

IV sedation does not put a patient to sleep, meaning that you will remain conscious during the procedure but feel calm, relaxed, and less aware of the procedure. With IV sedation, patients can still understand and respond to what the doctor is saying or asking them to do. As the name suggests, this type of sedation is administered intravenously. The benefits of IV sedation include:

• It works quickly after it is administered.
• The dosage can be adjusted easily based on the patient’s needs.
• It allows the patient to cooperate with a doctor.
• It significantly reduces stress during the appointment and allows the patient to remember less of the procedure.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also called a laughing gas, has been used in dentistry for decades. Typically, in modern dentistry, nitrous oxide is used in combination with oxygen and inhaled. This type of sedation is safe, and its effect usually passes right after the procedure so the patient can return to their daily activities. On its own, nitrous oxide does not reduce pain enough, so the local anesthetic is usually still used together with it. 

Nitrous oxide is often used in pediatric dentistry, as it effectively reduces children’s fear of the procedure.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation typically comes in the form of a pill administered through the mouth. The level of such sedation is usually moderate, allowing the patients to feel calm and relaxed for the duration of the procedure.

General Anesthesia

With general anesthesia, the patient is in deep sleep, unaware of their surroundings or the procedure, and does not feel any pain. After the procedure, the patient will also not have any memory of it. General anesthesia is induced through a vein. 

Make an Appointment Today

Do not hesitate to make an appointment with a full-service dentist in Arcadia today. We provide a safe and stress-free environment and use modern methods to ensure your oral health. We look forward to your visit to Smiles of Arcadia.

Dental implants are an excellent modern solution for people who are missing one, several, or all of their teeth. However, not all patients are eligible for dental implants due to their oral health conditions. Fortunately, there are various solutions for solving this issue, and bone grafting is one of them. In this article, we describe this procedure and answer the question: do you need bone grafting before dental implants?

Do You Need Bone Grafting Before Dental Implants?

Only some patients who plan on getting dental implants also require bone grafting. This procedure is recommended in cases when jawbone resorption takes place. Bone resorption is a loss in its density. Dental implants are metal posts that are placed directly into the jawbone and fuse with it over time. Thus, when there is not enough density in the jawbone, dental implants will not be stable and secure and might fail.

Why Does Jawbone Resorption Happen?

Jaw bone resorption, or density loss, happens if a patient is missing teeth for a long time. Since teeth roots no longer stimulate the bone, the body stops sending nutritious elements to it, as it is considered “useless.” As a result, the bone literally shrinks. In the first year after teeth loss, the jawbone density tends to decrease by up to 20%. Thus, if you have been missing teeth for more than a year, your dentist is likely to suggest bone grafting before dental implant placement. 

The Procedure of Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is aimed at restoring the jawbone. A dental bone graft can be made of natural or artificial materials and is surgically placed into the bone in places that need restoration. The grafts prompt the regeneration processes in the bone, and new tissue grows around them.

Bone grafting is typically performed using local anesthetic, so the patient feels little to no pain or discomfort. The procedure might take 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the number of grafts needed and their location. After the grafts are placed, the gum tissue is placed over them, and stitches are applied.

Bone Grafting and Sinus Lift

Another situation where you may require bone grafting is when you need a sinus lift before dental implants. A sinus lift might be recommended for patients who are missing their upper teeth at the back of the mouth. Sometimes, the sinuses might drop and occupy the area where teeth roots used to be, thus not leaving sufficient space for dental implants. In such cases, your doctor will lift the sinuses and then use a graft to prompt the regeneration of the tissue that will keep the sinuses in place.

Is Bone Grafting Safe?

Generally, bone grafting is a safe procedure with a high rate of success. Some of the risks of this surgical procedure include:

• Complications with anesthesia
• Infections
• Bleeding
• Nerve damage

Additionally, the success of bone grafting depends on the patient’s general health and personal habits. Smoking, alcohol intake, and certain illnesses might prompt bone grafting failure. 

Recovery After Bone Grafting

The healing period of a bone graft can take from 3 to 12 months to heal completely, depending on the size of the graft. However, you might expect the initial recovery after the surgery to be complete in 7 to 10 days. During this recovery period, you might experience swelling, minor pain, tenderness, and bruising at the surgery site. 

Over-the-counter medications, such as Ibuprofen, are effective at reducing post-surgery pain. Remember to follow the instructions and never exceed the recommended dose of pain medications. You can also apply ice packs to the face and keep your head elevated when lying down to reduce swelling. 

In addition, you should follow a liquid diet for the first 24 to 48 hours after the surgery and then switch to a soft diet for the rest of the recovery period. It is also important to completely abstain from nicotine and alcohol during the recovery, as both these substances significantly slow down healing. 

Another critical point is to maintain thorough oral hygiene by carefully brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing every evening. Your dentist might also recommend rinsing your mouth with salt water 3 to 4 times a day or after meals. If you were prescribed antibiotics or other medication, make sure to take the entire course according to schedule.

Make an Appointment Today

If you plan to replace your missing teeth with dental implants or require bone grafting, do not hesitate to make an appointment at our cosmetic dental office today. In Smiles of Arcadia, we use top-quality materials and modern methods to restore your smile and oral health. We look forward to your visit.

Root canal treatment is a standard procedure performed in cases of severe tooth decay. But does root canal treatment hurt? Please read our article to learn more about the procedure, its benefits, and recovery tips.

Does Root Canal Treatment Hurt?

Modern anesthetics allow dentists to perform even the most invasive treatments with little to no discomfort for the patient. Root canal treatment is not an exception, and most patients report not feeling any pain during the procedure. In some cases, patients might feel discomfort or slight pain during the root canal treatment. However, your dentist might be able to adjust the strength of the anesthetic during the procedure if you are in pain. 

Once the anesthetic wears out after the procedure, you will most likely feel soreness and tenderness at the treatment site for a couple of days. But keep in mind that the tooth decay pain you most likely experience before the procedure is much greater than that you might feel after the tooth is treated. The post-root canal treatment soreness typically can be remedied with over-the-counter painkillers, such as Ibuprofen. 

If you feel a lot of anxiety because of the upcoming procedure and if your pain tolerance is very low, ask your dentist about sedation dentistry. It might be a good option for you, as the relaxant is administered before the procedure begins and allows the patient to go through the procedure without stress. 

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is done in cases of severe tooth decay. It involves accessing the pulp chamber of the tooth and removing the infected pulp. After your dentist cleans the canals of the tooth from infection, they will be filled with a special biocompatible dental material and sealed. This prevents the reinfection of the tooth. 

In some cases, if the infection severely weakens the tooth, a dental crown is placed on top of it after the root canal treatment is complete. The crown reinforces the tooth and protects it from future damage. 

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

To help cope with anxiety about root canal treatment, keep its benefits in mind:

• Root canal treatment helps eliminate the source of the infection in the mouth, preventing the surrounding teeth from also getting infected and decaying. Thus, it improves your oral health.
• Root canal treatment helps save the infected tooth from extraction and avoid more complicated and expensive treatments, such as dental implants, in the future. 
• By eliminating the harmful bacterial growth in the mouth, root canal treatment helps prevent gum disease—chronic infection of the gum tissue. Gum disease is a dangerous condition because it weakens the support for the teeth and can penetrate and destroy the jawbone, leading to tooth loss. 
• Root canal treatment improves your general health. Bacteria and infection in the mouth can negatively affect the well-being of other organs in the body, for example, the gastrointestinal system. The health of the gut is closely linked to the appearance of the skin and the mood and energy levels. Also, gum disease is associated with heart, lung, joint, and blood sugar issues. Thus, by treating tooth decay with a root canal procedure, you can boost your quality of life. 

Recovery Tips After Root Canal Treatment

To make sure that your recovery is fast and smooth, follow several tips we list below:

• Avoid eating for several hours after the procedure, especially while the anesthetic is still working. 
• Chew your food on the other side of the mouth for a couple of days after the procedure to avoid damaging the newly restored tooth and let it fully heal.
• Adhere to a soft diet that does not require a lot of chewing or biting for several days after the procedure. The options of such a diet might include yogurts, cottage cheese, smoothies, pate, soft pasta, etc. 
• Use cold compresses if you experience swelling. Apply the compress for 15 minutes at a time to the outer side of your chick and take 30-minute breaks between the applications.
• Keep your head alleviated during the night to reduce the swelling.
• Take over-the-counter painkillers if you feel soreness or pain. However, remember to never exceed the recommended dose. 
• Maintain thorough oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing every night. Also, rinse your mouth with warm salt water after every meal.
• Avoid sports and other strenuous activities for at least a week after the procedure. 

Make an Appointment Today

If you have signs of severe tooth decay and experience pain, do not hesitate to make an appointment at Smiles of Arcadia today. A root canal in Arcadia is an effective way to eliminate the infection in the mouth, save your tooth from extraction, and boost your oral and general health. Our specialists will ensure that the procedure is stress-free. We are looking forward to your visit.

Many patients find an upcoming root canal treatment daunting. However, root canals are a common, safe, and well-researched procedure that has been used in dentistry for decades. In most cases, root canal treatment is pain-free and stress-free. Please read our article to learn how to prepare for a root canal and ensure the procedure goes as smoothly as possible.

How to Prepare for Root Canal

A root canal procedure typically does not require a patient to have complicated preparations. However, the tips we list below might help you to have a more stress-free procedure.

Abstain from Alcohol and Tobacco Before the Procedure

Both alcohol and tobacco products slow down the body’s healing processes, which are necessary for recovery after the root canal. Also, alcohol and tobacco can interfere with the anesthetic or sedation that will be administered before the procedure. Thus, it is advisable to avoid these products for at least 24 hours before the root canal treatment. 

Get a Full Night’s Rest Before the Procedure

After a root canal treatment, your body will require strength to recover properly. The body’s ability to heal and restore itself is most effective when we are asleep. For a smoother and faster recovery, we recommend sleeping for at least eight hours the nights before and after the procedure.

Eat Before the Procedure

It is recommended not to eat for a couple of hours after the procedure, especially before the anesthetic wears out, to avoid damaging the restored tooth or biting yourself. So, having a filling, nutritious meal before the procedure will help you sustain yourself until you can eat again and give you the necessary energy for recovery. However, if you are going to be sedated during the procedure, ask your dentist about the appropriate eating schedule beforehand, as it might be necessary to abstain from food for a longer period. 

Stay Informed About the Procedure

Ask your dentist all your questions during your consultation. Staying informed about the procedure, the preparation, and the recovery period can help relieve anxiety about root canal treatment and make the procedure much smoother than it would be otherwise. Remember that your dentist would not recommend this procedure if it did not benefit you.

Ask Your Dentist About Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry can be a good option for patients who experience acute anxiety and stress before operations. Mild or complete sedation can help the patient feel calmer during the treatment and simplify the procedure. 

Think of Ways to Relieve Anxiety if You Are Nervous

Beyond sedation dentistry, there are other ways to relieve dental anxiety. We have already mentioned that having your dentist answer your questions and learning about the procedure’s benefits can help you stay calmer. You can also try exploring breathing and relaxation methods, ask a friend to accompany you, and plan to reward yourself for going through with the treatment.

Take the Medication Prescribed by Your Dentist

In some cases, your dentist might prescribe antibiotics or other medication to take before the procedure. Make sure to follow the prescription and the recommended schedule for taking those medications.

Prepare a Soft Diet for After the Procedure

It is advisable to adhere to a soft diet for several days after the root canal treatment to avoid straining or damaging your newly repaired tooth. We recommend preparing the food in advance to avoid the need to travel to the store during the recovery period. Examples of soft diet foods that do not require much chewing include smoothies, yogurt, pure soup, mashed potatoes or other vegetables, pate, soft pasta and bread, etc. Remember that your diet should also be nutritious to give your body the necessary vitamins and energy for healing and restoration. 

Plan Down Time for After the Procedure

It is crucial to avoid sports or other strenuous activities for several days after the root canal procedure. Make sure to plan downtime and take a couple of days off work to be able to rest fully and help your body heal.

Prepare Painkillers and Other Medication in Advance

You might require over-the-counter painkillers and antibiotics (if prescribed by your dentist) for several days after the procedure. We recommend buying these medications in advance and having them on hand during recovery time. You might also need to prepare an ice pack to have cold compresses if you experience swelling after the root canal procedure.

Make an Appointment Today

The dental office in Arcadia offers high-quality, effective, and stress-free root canal treatment procedures to our patients. If you experience toothache caused by tooth decay or any other dental issues, do not hesitate to make an appointment at our office today. Our specialists look forward to welcoming you and your family to Smiles of Arcadia.