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Why Invisalign Braces Are Perfect for Active Lifestyles

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 14:00:32 GMT

If you’re considering a modern orthodontic solution that complements your fast-paced life, Invisalign braces in Phoenix, AZ, might be exactly what you need. At Desert Dental, we understand how challenging it can be to juggle work, school, and fitness, all while aiming for a healthier, straighter smile. Invisalign offers a convenient, virtually invisible way to improve your teeth alignment without slowing down your daily routine. This blog will explore why Invisalign is particularly well-suited for active individuals living in the vibrant Phoenix area, discussing benefits for athletes, managing aligners under the desert sun, and fitting seamlessly into social and professional settings.

How Invisalign Fits Into Busy Work, School, and Fitness Routines

One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign braces is how well they adapt to your lifestyle. Unlike traditional metal braces that are fixed and can interfere with your daily activities, Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners that fit snugly over your teeth. This means you can continue attending important meetings, classes, or study sessions without feeling self-conscious about your appearance.

For those with a workout schedule, Invisalign doesn’t limit your athletic performance or comfort. Whether you hit the gym, participate in team sports, or attend yoga sessions, you can simply remove the aligners beforehand and put them back in as soon as you’re done. This flexibility is key to maintaining oral hygiene since you can brush and floss normally, helping prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay, common concerns for anyone using traditional braces.

Benefits for Athletes and Outdoor Enthusiasts in Phoenix

Phoenix, AZ, is synonymous with an active outdoor lifestyle, and hiking, biking, running, and various sports are part of many residents’ daily lives. Traditional braces often come with restrictions and risks during physical activities. A direct blow to the mouth could damage metal brackets or wires, causing discomfort and additional dental visits.

Invisalign braces eliminate this risk because they’re made from smooth plastic that doesn’t have sharp edges, reducing the chance of mouth injuries.

Athletes appreciate that Invisalign aligners do not interfere with mouthguards, which are essential for contact sports.

You can remove the clear aligners to wear a custom-fit mouthguard, then switch back after the game or practice.

This makes Invisalign an athlete-friendly orthodontic option that keeps your treatment on track without impacting your performance or safety.

Managing Aligners During High Temperatures and Hydration Tips

Phoenix is known for its high temperatures, especially during the summer months, which can present unique challenges for Invisalign wearers. Luckily, the aligners are designed with durability in mind, made from BPA-free medical-grade plastic that can withstand daily wear and minor temperature variations. However, it’s wise to avoid exposing your aligners to extreme heat; for example, never leave them in direct sunlight or inside a hot car, as this could warp their shape and affect treatment effectiveness.

Hydration is another important factor. Staying well-hydrated helps maintain your oral health and reduces dry mouth, which can contribute to bad breath and increase the risk of cavities. Drinking plenty of water also helps flush out food particles and bacteria, especially since you should take out your aligners whenever eating or drinking anything other than water. Keeping a portable case handy helps keep your aligners clean and safe until you’re ready to reinsert them.

Why Removable Aligners Are Ideal for Social and Professional Settings

In professional environments and social situations, confidence in your smile can make a significant difference.

Invisalign braces offer a discreet solution since the clear aligners are nearly invisible. Many patients report feeling less self-conscious compared to traditional braces, which can be bulky and noticeable.

Being able to remove aligners also allows patients to enjoy meals and drinks without worrying about damage or staining. Whether you’re attending important business meetings, social gatherings, or date nights, Invisalign lets you maintain a polished appearance without interruption. This flexibility supports a positive self-image, encouraging consistent treatment compliance and faster results.

Taking Care of Invisalign Braces for Optimal Results

Maintaining your Invisalign braces involves a simple but vital routine. You’ll need to wear aligners 20 to 22 hours per day for the best outcomes, but removing them for eating, drinking anything other than water, and oral hygiene is recommended. Cleaning your aligners with a gentle brush and specialized solutions helps prevent bacteria buildup and keeps them clear.

Regular follow-up visits to your orthodontist or dental provider ensure your progress is on track. Adjustments to your treatment plan are made as needed, supported by check-ins and digital scans that monitor tooth movement. This structured yet flexible process supports effective results without disrupting your active lifestyle.

Start Your Invisalign Journey Today

If you’re ready to straighten your teeth without compromising your busy lifestyle, Invisalign braces offer the perfect balance of convenience, comfort, and confidence. Designed to fit seamlessly with your work duties, school commitments, workout regimen, and social life, Invisalign from Desert Dental gives you the freedom to live actively while achieving a radiant smile. Don’t let traditional braces hold you back; discover how Invisalign can transform your orthodontic experience. Call to schedule a consultation with Desert Dental today to learn more!

Dental Problems Common Among The Elderly

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 22:45:00 GMT

People of all ages can experience dental problems at any time. However, as you grow older the risk of dental diseases increases. Here are some common dental problems among the elderly.

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Dry mouth is caused by reduced saliva flow. Saliva is key in maintaining oral health by helping to clean food particles and neutralize acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. Reduced saliva flow can result from various factors, including certain medications, radiation therapy, autoimmune diseases, and the natural aging process.
Common symptoms of dry mouth include difficulty swallowing, altered taste, and increased risk of developing dental cavities and gum disease. To alleviate dry mouth, individuals can increase water intake, suck on sugar-free candies to stimulate saliva flow, and use over-the-counter saliva substitutes or oral moisturizers.

Bad Breath (Halitosis)

Poor oral hygiene is often a significant factor contributing to bad breath in the elderly. Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to the buildup of plaque and bacteria in the mouth, resulting in an unpleasant odor. Moreover, as people age, they might face difficulties in maintaining thorough oral care due to mobility issues or other health complications, further exacerbating the problem.
Certain medications commonly prescribed to the elderly can also cause dry mouth as a side effect. Furthermore, underlying health conditions such as gum disease, respiratory infections, or digestive issues can play a role in causing halitosis among the elderly.
To address this issue, the elderly must maintain regular dental check-ups and practice effective oral hygiene. Dentists can guide proper cleaning techniques and recommend suitable mouthwashes or saliva substitutes to alleviate dry mouth. Additionally, healthcare professionals should be consulted to address any underlying health concerns that may be contributing to the problem.

Tooth Decay (Cavities)

Tooth decay occurs when the enamel, the outer layer of the tooth, is damaged by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. Factors such as poor oral hygiene, frequent snacking, and consumption of sugary or acidic foods and drinks can contribute to tooth decay.
Additionally, reduced saliva flow due to certain medications or medical conditions can exacerbate the problem. Treatment for tooth decay involves dental fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy, depending on the severity of the decay.

Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)

Gum disease is a serious oral health issue that can affect individuals of all ages, but its prevalence increases with age. It occurs when the gums become infected due to the buildup of plaque and tartar along the gumline. Common symptoms include swollen, tender, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and receding gums.
Factors such as poor oral hygiene, smoking, certain medications, and systemic conditions like diabetes can contribute to the development of gum disease. Treatment for gum disease may involve scaling and root planing, antibiotic treatment, or in severe cases, surgical intervention.
Factors such as periodontal disease, aggressive tooth brushing, hormonal changes, and genetics can contribute to gum recession. Treatments for receding gums may involve deep cleaning, gum grafting, or tissue regeneration procedures, depending on the severity of the condition.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is any type of cancer that affects the throat or mouth. Among the elderly, factors such as a history of tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and prolonged exposure to the sun (in the case of lip cancer) can increase the risk of developing oral cancer.
Additionally, as people age, the cells in their bodies may be more prone to genetic changes that can lead to cancer. A healthy lifestyle can help in early detection and prevention of oral cancer among the elderly.
Regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene practices, a balanced diet, and avoidance of harmful habits such as smoking are essential for preventing and managing these common dental problems in the elderly. Reach out to Desert Dental: Ruintan Kamran D.M.D. for more information.

Dispelling 3 Popular Myths About Teeth Whitening

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 19:49:00 GMT

In the quest for a dazzling, camera-ready smile, teeth whitening has become popular for those who want brighter teeth. Yet, as it garners attention, so do the myths and misconceptions around it. These can range from harmless misunderstandings to misleading ideas that could potentially deter people from this beneficial dental procedure.

This blog post aims to shine a spotlight on these myths and reveal the truth behind them. Hopefully, you'll have more accurate information to help you make an informed decision about your oral health.

1. Whitening Toothpaste Is Enough for Whitening Your Teeth

Whitening toothpaste is a popular choice for teeth whitening because it is readily available and affordable. Although it may remove some surface stains, it's usually not enough for a complete teeth whitening. The toothpaste contains abrasive particles that help remove surface stains, but they do not penetrate the enamel to remove deeper stains.

For optimal teeth whitening, opt for professional teeth whitening treatments at a dental clinic. Here, your dentist can use advanced whitening products like bleaching gels and lasers to break down deeper stains and give you a brighter smile.

But first, they'll clean your teeth to get rid of any plaque or tartar that might hinder the whitening process. Your dentist then applies a protective gel or a rubber shield to safeguard your gums before they apply a whitening agent, typically a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide.

They will then activate the whitening agent using a special laser or light that penetrates the tooth enamel and breaks down the stains. Your dentist will finally rinse off the whitening agent to reveal teeth that are several shades brighter than before.

2. A Teeth Whitening Procedure Isn't Safe

Is teeth whitening unsafe? This belief stems from a misunderstanding of the process and the chemicals used. However, when administered properly, this is a safe procedure that doesn't put your oral health at risk.

The most commonly used whitening agents are hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which have been extensively tested and proven safe for oral use. Keep in mind that these agents are usually used in a controlled environment under the eye of a trained professional, minimizing potential risks.

The fear that teeth whitening procedures may damage tooth enamel is also widely spread. While it's true that aggressive whitening procedures or overuse of over-the-counter whitening products can lead to enamel damage, professional whitening treatments at a reputable dental clinic pose minimal risk to your enamel.

The procedure is designed to target stains in the deeper layers of your teeth without eroding the enamel. Additionally, dental professionals employ protective measures like applying a protective gel or a rubber shield to prevent any potential harm to your gums or teeth. This leaves your oral health unscathed while still giving you the brighter smile you desire.

3. Teeth Whitening Results Last Forever

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of a brighter smile and believe that the results will last forever. Unfortunately, this isn't true, as teeth whitening results are temporary and can only last several months to a few years.

The longevity of your improved teeth color depends on several factors, such as your oral health habits, diet, genetics, and lifestyle choices (e.g., smoking). Environmental factors, such as air pollutants and UV exposure, can also discolor your teeth over time.

For optimal results, maintain good oral hygiene practices like brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and avoiding foods or beverages that could stain your teeth (e.g., coffee or red wine).

Keep in mind that teeth whitening is not a one-time procedure but rather a maintenance process. Professional dental whitening procedures are designed to be repeated periodically to maintain the desired level of whiteness. Have touch-up treatments every few months, especially if you smoke or regularly consume staining substances.

Remember, teeth whitening is a safe procedure when done under the supervision of our dental professionals at Desert Dental , so don't hesitate to schedule regular whitening appointments to maintain that dazzling smile.

3 Hormonal Imbalances That Affect Oral Health

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 21:10:00 GMT

When you think about threats to your oral health, you may envision poor dental hygiene habits, sticky or sugary foods that promote plaque and tartar development, and unchecked infections that can rot teeth. However, other issues such as hormonal imbalances can also impact your oral wellness.
The more you understand the delicate relationships between your mouth and the various hormones your endocrine system produces, the more easily you can recognize these issues in your own life and seek the appropriate remedies. Take a look at three hormonal imbalances that can affect your oral health.

1. Progesterone and Estrogen Spikes

Two female sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone, work together to regulate reproductive system health, development, and function. Your body may produce more of these hormones during puberty, menstruation, and pregnancy. As your estrogen and progesterone levels change, so may your oral health.
A spike in estrogen and progesterone can loosen your teeth while also triggering oral inflammation. This inflammation can make your gums hypersensitive. You may also experience redness, swelling, and bleeding, a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis. Pubescent girls may get painful cankers in their mouths.
The same hormonal imbalances that create inflamed gums and loose teeth can also threaten your oral health less directly. For instance, they can produce a form of nausea called morning sickness. Morning sickness that causes frequent vomiting can damage your tooth enamel, making you more vulnerable to cavities.
Fortunately, these changes in hormonal balance, along with their effects on your oral tissue, should subside following puberty or pregnancy. In the meantime, keep up your dental exams and cleanings. If you plan to become pregnant, complete any necessary dental treatment in advance.

2. Testosterone Deficiencies

The hormone known as testosterone plays a critical role in producing and regulating male sex characteristics and functions. However, as many as five million of American adults may suffer from abnormally low testosterone levels, often as part of the natural aging process. This deficiency can affect oral and dental health.
A study from the American Journal of Men’s Health suggests associations between low testosterone levels and an elevated risk for chronic gum problems such as periodontitis. Another study from the Texas A&M University Baylor College of Dentistry on lab animals indicates that low testosterone can reduce jawbone density, robbing tooth roots of much-needed structural support.

3. Excessive or Deficient Thyroid Hormone

The thyroid gland in your neck releases precise amounts of thyroid hormone, in response to commands from the pituitary gland. This hormone helps to govern a variety of metabolic functions, from bone growth to heart rate. Both too much and too little of it can affect your oral and systemic wellness.
If you suffer from hyperthyroidism, the excessive thyroid hormone production can dry up your salivary glands. The resulting dry mouth can make your teeth more vulnerable to bacteria-related tooth decay. Hyperthyroidism can also promote osteoporosis, which, in turn, could reduce your jawbone density.
Hypothyroidism, or low thyroid hormone levels, can also raise the risk for gum disease. If you have canker sores in your mouth, hypothyroidism can delay their healing. In some people, a thyroid hormone deficiency can cause an enlargement of the tongue called macroglossia. It can even impair tooth development in children.
Fortunately, doctors can correct hyperthyroid or hypothyroid conditions through medication, vitamin D supplementation, and treatment of the underlying cause, such as a tumor or autoimmune disease. In the meantime, pay special attention to your dental hygiene routine to avoid gum disease.
If you have trouble with your teeth, gums, or jawbone density, schedule a consultation with the experts at Desert Dental. We can evaluate the problem, identify underlying causes, administer immediate care, and work alongside other medical professionals as needed to restore your oral health. Contact us today.

7 Benefits of Dental Crowns

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 15:48:00 GMT

Your teeth can erode, crack, weaken, and sustain many damages. One possible solution is to get dental crowns that provide protection. Typically, dentists will inspect your teeth and recommend dental crowns. But before getting dental crowns, understand the following benefits of these fixtures.

1. Crowns Protect Damaged Teeth

Tooth damage typically begins in the enamel and causes the rest of the tooth to erode. The enamel doesn't grow back once it's lost. Similarly, most parts of your teeth can't heal on their own. A dental crown helps to protect the remaining tooth, regardless of the extent of the damage.

2. Crowns Have a Simple Procedure

A common misconception is that dental crowns require complicated and time-consuming procedures. However, dental crowns are a minimally invasive and straightforward process. Typically, your dentist will clean the enamel and remove any damaged tooth material. The dentist will then prepare a crown and send it to a laboratory.

As you await your dental crown, the dentist will give you a temporary crown. The laboratory will then design a crown that fits the damaged teeth and send it to the dentist. The process ends with the dentist fitting the crown on your teeth.

3. Crowns Improve Appearance of Teeth

The primary purpose of dental crowns is to protect damaged teeth, but some people use crowns to achieve cosmetic benefits. If your teeth are discolored or cracked, you can use dental crowns to improve your teeth's appearance. Dental crowns can also make chips and fractures invisible, thus improving your smile.

4. Crowns Can Save a Damaged Tooth

Tooth decay, stress, and trauma can damage your tooth. One possible remedy is to extract the tooth and replace it with dentures and other dental implants. However, you might want to keep your natural tooth in your mouth, even if it's damaged. Crowns can help keep the damaged tooth in the mouth.

5. Crowns Protect Teeth With a History of Decay

Some of your teeth may have shown signs of decay even after undergoing decay treatment. Initially, the dentist might try to use dental fillings to prevent further tooth decay. But at some point, dental crowns are necessary since they cover the entire teeth. This prevents sugar, acidic substances, and bacteria from coming into contact with the vulnerable tooth.

6. Dental Crowns Are Custom-Made

Dentists use the latest equipment to measure your damaged tooth and its surroundings. These measurements then go to a laboratory where state-of-the-art equipment creates crowns of precise size and shape. Once the dentist implants the crown on your teeth, nobody will notice that you have fixtures in your mouth. In addition, the crown's wants affect the surrounding teeth or your gums.
Also, dental crowns don't shift or slide because they attach firmly to the tooth. As a result, you shouldn't worry about the crown slipping out of your mouth when you're talking to people or eating food.

7. Dental Crowns Are Durable

Dental crowns are made from highly resilient materials such as metal alloys on porcelain. The materials can withstand excessive pressure, even when you chew hard foods. As a result, you can expect the crown to last for several years, sometimes even for more than a decade. However, crowns are not indestructible and can eventually wear and tear down.

Choosing high-quality crowns is the first step to increasing the lifespan of your fixtures. Also, practice proper dental hygiene and regularly wash and clean your crowns to increase their lifespan.

The durability and effectiveness of your dental crowns also depend on the qualification and expertise of the dentist who installs them. Desert Dental provides quality and honest dental care in a comfortable and relaxed environment. We use hi-tech equipment and procedures to offer family dentistry and cosmetic services. Contact us for more information.

Why Is Your Breath Smelly?

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 03:13:00 GMT

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can easily kill self-confidence, cause embarrassment, and make social interactions awkward. While nearly everyone experiences bad breath, especially when waking up, having bad breath all the time can be a sign of an underlying problem.

Luckily, halitosis is not a lifetime affliction and is both treatable and manageable. But first, understand the possible culprits of bad breath to help you determine the best solution.

Inadequate Saliva

Saliva helps cleanse the mouth of bacteria and food remains. If you don't have sufficient saliva, food particles may be in your mouth, which can lead to bad breath. The condition is called dry mouth or xerostomia.

Numerous aspects increase the risk of xerostomia. For instance, certain medical conditions and medications may compromise the body's natural saliva production.

Additionally, smoking and drinking too much caffeine can affect your salivary flow due to drying effects. But note that having a dry mouth when waking up is a normal phenomenon and usually goes away after you drink some water or have something to eat.

If you struggle with dry mouth, your doctor may recommend taking lots of water or chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Failure to observe good oral care is a common culprit of bad breath. Poor hygiene, including not brushing and flossing, gives room for bacteria buildup in your mouth.

The bacteria combine with food particles to form plaque, a sticky covering on your teeth. The bacteria then release smelly compounds, which cause bad breath odors.

To prevent this problem, brush your teeth twice daily and floss at least once. Also, use an antibacterial mouthwash with fluoride to reduce bacteria. Finally, remember to scrape your tongue to eliminate bacteria and food particles that may be stuck on its surface.

Most importantly, visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings. The dentist has the tools to remove plaque and tartar even in hard-to-reach areas.

Medical Conditions

Several medical conditions can cause bad breath. For example, stomach problems, such as GERD, may lead to the regurgitation of stomach acids that have a sour smell.

Also, diabetes is another potential cause of halitosis due to its impact on saliva production. People with poor hygiene habits may also develop gum or periodontal disease, which leads to an unpleasant odor in their mouths.

If you suspect that your smelly breath is a result of an underlying health condition, seek medical attention.

Certain Foods

Certain types of food, such as onions and garlic, are known to cause bad breath due to the sulfur compounds that release when you digest these foods. The secret to preventing bad breath from these types of food is to brush your teeth immediately after you consume these foods. Or, if you can, avoid such foods altogether.

Tobacco

Whether you smoke cigarettes or chew tobacco, both habits can lead to bad breath. The best way to prevent bad breath due to smoking is to quit the habit entirely. Your dentist can offer tips on quitting tobacco without suffering from withdrawal symptoms.

Bad breath is a common problem, but you don't have to live with it. Instead, identify the cause of your smelly breath and take appropriate action to address the issue. Regular visits to your dentist may also help get rid of bad breath, as they can detect any underlying dental problems that may cause halitosis.

Desert Dental is your trusted partner for all dental care needs. We are experienced and highly trained to attend to any dental problem you may have, including bad breath. Contact us to schedule an appointment today to get started on your journey toward a healthy and more confident smile.

4 Ways Gum Contouring Enhances Your Smile

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 14:54:00 GMT

Healthy gums are critical to your oral health and essential to your smile's appearance. However, gum tissue might get in the way of a beautiful smile. The situation mainly occurs if you have high, low, or uneven gums. Fortunately, a professional dentist can enhance your smile through gum contouring, a readily available procedure in most dental practices.

Gum contouring is a minor oral surgery procedure for adjusting the amount of gum tissue. Typically, dentists use scalpels, lasers, and radiosurgery during the process. Discover ways gum contouring enhances your smile.

1. Eliminates a Gummy Smile

Ideally, your teeth should be a significant portion of your smile. Therefore, if you can see excess gum tissue when you smile, you have a gummy smile. However, a gummy smile can interfere with your smile's aesthetics even if you have sparkling teeth. The reason is that excess gum tissue exposure might draw stares and make you self-conscious when you smile.

Consider gum contouring if you believe your gummy smile has gotten in the way of your social life. A dentist will slowly trim excess gum tissue during the procedure using a scalpel or laser. The procedure's main objective is to balance your gumline and teeth. You do not have to worry about pain because laser gum reshaping is effectively painless.

2. Stops Severe Gum Recession

Healthy gums cover the roots of individual teeth, which keeps your pearly whites clean and holds them firmly in place. However, gum disease can gradually cause the tissue to pull away from your teeth. Over time, receding gums allow bacteria and plaque to attack your teeth, making them susceptible to decay. Decaying teeth can significantly affect your smile unless you stop your gums from receding.

Gum contouring can help stop gum recession through grafting. The process involves regenerating receding gums using tissue from other places in the mouth. As you heal, the gum grafts cover exposed teeth roots and protect them from decay and sensitivity. Thus, gum contouring helps resolve any aesthetic concerns due to gum recession.

3. Evens the Gumline

Some people smile less because some of their teeth seem larger than others. Others cover their mouths when they smile to hide their imperfections. However, you will be surprised to learn that the problem is often an irregular gumline — not teeth. A licensed dentist can reshape the gumline at specific points to make it even across your smile.

Gum contouring helps achieve symmetry along your gumline by targeting individual teeth. For instance, low gum tissue on your right incisor can make the tooth appear smaller than the left. Therefore, trimming excess tissue around the affected area creates an even gumline and symmetrical teeth for a beautiful smile.

4. Hides Minor Gum Sores

You can sustain minor bruises on your gums if you overbrush or use hard-bristled brushes. The contusions are easily visible on a gummy smile since more gum is tissue exposed. Unfortunately, conspicuous gum bruises can create an impression of poor oral hygiene and force you to avoid smiling in public until the injury heals.

Since gum contouring helps expose more teeth, trimming excess tissue makes any gum bruises less visible when you smile. Therefore, you do not have to worry about other people seeing your bruised gums. Most importantly, gum contouring allows you to smile naturally as your gum injuries heal behind the scenes.

Various dental procedures can help improve your smile. However, contouring is the best place to start if you have excess gum tissue. Contact us and schedule an appointment to learn more about our smile-enhancing procedures. We look forward to helping you smile your best!

Lumineers Vs. Veneers: Comparing the Key Differences

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 18:42:00 GMT

Smile makeovers have become increasingly popular as more people want a beautiful, confident, and healthy smile. However, getting that flawless smile without a bit of help can be challenging.

Lumineers and veneers are effective options for people who want that Hollywood smile.

Veneers are thin, custom-made tooth-shaped shells of dental porcelain or composite. On the other hand, Lumineers are a less invasive type of dental veneer. Lumineers and veneers have a lot in common, including the variety of aesthetic issues they treat. Even so, both options differ in some significant ways.

The differences between veneers and Lumineers are as follows.

Preparation

Lumineers require less preparation and dental work than traditional veneers. However, a consultation is the first step for both types of services. The doctor will examine your teeth, determine if you are a candidate, and explain the procedure to you.

As part of the consultation process for Lumineers, your dentist can also take an impression of your teeth and send it to the lab that will make them. After the Lumineers are ready, your dentist will bond them to your teeth on the second visit.

For traditional veneers, the second visit requires your dentist to trim your teeth to make room for the laminate's thickness. Your dentist will then make a mold of your prepared teeth and send it to the laboratory. Meanwhile, your dentist will provide you with temporary veneers.

Your dentist will apply your veneers at your next appointment and adjust them for the perfect fit and shape.

Appearance

As Lumineers are thinner than veneers, they are translucent in appearance. Therefore, Lumineers have a realistic appearance. However, Lumineers may not be ideal for people with severely stained or discolored teeth since the color will still slightly show through.

Veneers come in a variety of shades to match your teeth. The thickness of veneers also allows them to be opaque. Hence, veneers are most suitable when teeth appear yellowed or brown or have signs of staining.

Durability

A veneer can last about ten years with proper care. Lumineers should also be able to maintain their integrity for the same length of time as veneers, but that is not always the case.

The harsh effects of chewing and grinding hard food are more pronounced on Lumineers. Maintaining your Lumineers properly will help you get the most out of them.

Permanence

A traditional veneer is often a permanent treatment option as opposed to a porcelain veneer. To apply veneers, your dentist will have to alter your tooth structure. Veneers are therefore irreversible.

Lumineers are semi-permanent, unlike veneers. The application process is minimally damaging to your teeth so you can remove them without causing damage. Thus, if necessary, you can reverse the procedure.

Cost

Costs vary according to factors such as the location of the tooth and its condition. Moreover, both Lumineers and veneers costs are on a per-tooth basis.

Even so, the cost of porcelain veneers tends to be higher than that of Lumineers. Lumineers cost less than veneers because they require less prep work. Since both treatments are cosmetic, most insurance plans do not cover them.

A brighter, whiter smile can boost your confidence and self-esteem. Both procedures can fix chipping, gaps, staining, or an uneven bite. You have to decide which one suits your dental issue, budget, and preferences the best. Fortunately, both are highly effective, viable treatments that can bring a noticeable improvement to your teeth's appearance.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation if you would like to learn more about your options. We will be happy to go over any questions or concerns you may have.

What You Should Know About Dental X-Rays

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 23:52:00 GMT

Dental radiography helps dentists identify oral issues they cannot see through regular visual inspections. While getting X-rays may not be a favorite activity, they are vital for keeping your gums, teeth, and jaw healthy. Read on to discover more about dental radiography.

How Do Dental X-Rays Work?

X-rays have a long history of use in the medical field, where they help medical practitioners examine the inside of your body without the need to make incisions. During the procedure, your dentist passes electromagnetic radiation through you and receives an image of your dental structures, bone, and soft tissue on a computer.

What Do Dental X-Rays Show?

Tooth decay is among the issues that a dentist assesses via X-ray. An oral inspection cannot show small areas of decay between teeth, and an X-ray helps your dentist see plaque buildup around your teeth and under your gums. X-rays also show decay beneath fillings, which causes an abscessed tooth if left untreated. Dental X-rays show jawbone loss, cysts, tumors, and bone changes. If you want to get implants, dentures, braces, or other orthodontics, your dentist determines the condition of your teeth through a dental X-ray.
In children, the primary purpose of dental radiography is to ascertain that the mouth has enough space to contain incoming teeth. Your family dentist can prevent complications like adult teeth crowding baby teeth through regular X-rays.

Types of Dental X-Rays

Dental X-rays are available as either intraoral or extraoral. Intraoral X-rays are the most prevalent, which dentists place in the mouth to assess the health of your teeth and surrounding structures. With these X-rays, dentists see cavities, monitor the jawbone's health, and track the development of growing teeth. The details produced by intraoral images also help your physician see any cracks in dental fillings and decay in the root.
Extraoral X-rays reveal the condition of the jaw and skull, but they also show the teeth. Dentists use extraoral imagery to observe the growth of the jaw and identify impacted teeth.

Preparing for a Dental X-Ray

While dental X-rays don't require any preparation, dental practitioners appreciate good hygiene, so you should brush and floss beforehand. Before the X-ray, the physician completes a quick inspection to assess your oral health. Then, you sit upright in a chair, and the dentist wraps your chest with a lead apron and protects your neck with a thyroid collar. The dentist places the imaging machine near your head and puts the sensor in your mouth in the case of intraoral X-rays. The process may be uncomfortable for children with gag reflexes or people with small mouths, but dentists use various ways to improve a patient's comfort.

Frequency of Dental X-Rays

The frequency of dental X-rays depends on numerous factors, such as your age, medical history, and oral treatments. People in good oral health and those who keep up with dental visits need X-rays once a year or every couple of years. Expect an X-ray at every initial consultation, as dentists need imagery to review the extent of gum disease and other problems. Children, people with a lot of restorative work, smokers, and adults with dry mouths require more X-rays than people without dental issues.

Safety Concerns

The machines dentists use in imaging emit radiation in extremely small amounts that don't cause health problems. Developments in dental imaging, such as the use of high-speed X-rays and machines that restrict the radiation energy to a small area, minimize the impact of dental X-rays. Also, state and federal guidelines dictate strict X-ray protocols to promote public safety. Dental X-rays and frequent checkups are the best ways to preserve oral health. At Desert Dental, we emphasize early detection of dental issues before they worsen. Call us today for personalized dental treatment.

6 Tips to Ease Dental Anxiety

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 17:34:00 GMT

Many people dread dental appointments due to the fear of needles, fear of pain, previous distressing experiences at a dentist's office, or a history of anxiety disorder. If your anxiety prevents you from going to the dentist regularly, you may experience oral health issues like gum disease and tooth decay. Find ways to ease your stress and protect your oral health if this is the case. Find some helpful tips below.

1. Discuss Your Fears With the Dentist

When looking for a dentist, ask family, friends, or colleagues who have overcome dental anxiety for recommendations. You likely want an understanding and empathetic dental practitioner who makes you feel relaxed and calm. Keep an eye out for caring staff, personalized care, and a comfortable office atmosphere.

During your appointment, speak about your fears and any traumatic experiences that made you anxious about dental visits. Don't be embarrassed about your feelings, as dentists treat many patients with dental anxiety.

Also, ask many questions about the procedure to feel empowered during your treatment. In many cases, dental anxiety arises from the fear of losing control. Your dentist will demonstrate various aspects of the procedure to keep you informed on what you can expect. A safe word or verbal cue may be necessary to let the dentist know you are overwhelmed.

2. Practice Breathing Exercises and Meditation

Deep breathing is an excellent psychological coping technique to release tension. Inhale slowly and exhale through your mouth with your eyes closed. Then, repeat this exercise for several counts as you wait for your appointment or sit in the dentist's chair.

Visualization is another powerful technique, where you close your eyes and imagine yourself in another place, such as on a beach or flower garden. Allow your body to relax with your eyes closed and feel the tension leave various body parts.

3. Distract Yourself

The more you focus on the dental procedure, the more nervous you can get. So, distract yourself by listening to a podcast, audiobook, or music, or squeeze a stress-relieving ball during the treatment. Most dental clinics have screens that show on-demand movies and shows to distract patients from drilling sounds.

4. Bring a Companion

The comfort and assurance of a friend or relative reduce dental anxiety. Find someone who doesn't fear dental appointments, and have them stay with you during the procedure. The companion can also advocate for you if they think you are uncomfortable and will drive you home after the treatment.

5. Give Yourself Time

Rushing to a dental appointment can worsen your anxiety since it doesn't give your body enough time to relax. A better strategy is to schedule the appointment on a less-busy day and arrive early to get enough time to ask questions and familiarize yourself with the staff and clinic. Also, plan for breaks if you get too distressed during the procedure.

6. Consider Sedation

Sedation is a popular option among people with dental anxiety since it keeps them calm during dental procedures. Dentists offer different sedation types, depending on the level of stress.

For example, nitrous oxide, which you inhale through a mask, makes you giggly and euphoric without putting you to sleep. Also called laughing gas, nitrous oxide depresses senses like pain, so you are calm during dental procedures. The effects of the gas wane when you remove the mask, and you can drive yourself home after the treatment.

Sedative medication, which you take an hour before treatment, is another option to quell dental anxiety. The pills make you sleepy, but you can respond to verbal communication. Bring a companion to drive you home after the procedure. If you have severe dental anxiety, ask your doctor about IV sedation, which leaves you unconscious during the dental treatment.

Dental anxiety shouldn't prevent you from receiving oral care. Come meet our dentist at Desert Dental for a personalized and comfortable dental experience.

Need To Whiten Teeth? Reasons To Choose In-office Teeth Whitening

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 12:56:00 GMT

Have you been looking for an ideal way to whiten your teeth? Having yellowed or stained teeth can have adverse effects on your life. It affects your general appearance every time you smile and causes self-confidence issues that affect your emotional health.

Luckily, you can rely on your dentist to fix this problem instead of using the DIY whitening kits and whitening gels found in stores. These dental experts offer in-office teeth whitening services customized to meet your unique requirements. Read on to learn why you should skip do-it-yourself kits or gels and choose in-office teeth whitening instead.

Teeth's Wellbeing Won't Be A Concern

The teeth whitening products sold today vary, which is why the usage and results differ. Some may take longer than others, and you may interfere with your dental health when you make application mistakes.

In-office teeth whitening is a safe procedure as it's performed by a competent dentist. Once you declare your intention to whiten your teeth, the dentist will evaluate your dental health to determine if you are an ideal candidate. They will address any concerns for your safety before whitening the teeth.

The dentist will choose the correct shade, create a customized teeth whitening plan, and prepare your mouth for the procedure. They will share some dos and don'ts to follow before and after each treatment session. The dentist will take measures to protect the teeth during the treatment, and the chances of overbleaching will be minimal. You cannot guarantee all these things when you opt for DIY whitening methods.

Get Better And Immediate Results

When you allow a dentist to whiten your teeth, you will get reliable and immediate results. The dentist will use the latest dental technologies like a special laser or light to activate the solution during the whitening process. This speeds up the whitening process and is why you will see results even after one appointment. You may need several sessions to attain your objective, depending on the current condition of your teeth.

You cannot compare the results of a professional whitening service to what the over-the-counter products offer. You will pay slightly more for your sessions but save money in the end since DIY products take months. The products need to be used repeatedly for an extended period to see results, and if you aren't consistent, you'll not attain your whitening goals.

Protect The Gums

If misused, the bleaching agents in whitening products can adversely affect the gums. The products contain peroxide, an active ingredient that should only come into contact with the teeth and not the gums. As you use at-home bleaching agents, you could accidentally apply them to the gums, leading to gum irritation. Even the trays in stores lack customization and will not fit perfectly in your mouth.

With a professional handling the whitening procedure, you won't need to worry about exposing the gums to the bleaching solution. Dentists take precautionary measures to protect the gums from bleach to avoid irritation. This will avert sensitivity issues, which create discomfort.

Get Long-lasting Results

Before you invest in any cosmetic dentistry procedure like teeth whitening, you want to ensure you'll get value for your money. In-office whitening provides long-lasting results, unlike DIY products. The dentist will focus on the needs of each tooth to ensure they are whitened in the same manner. This will ensure your results last longer.

Clearly, you should invest in professional teeth whitening rather than using the bleaching products you find in most stores. Professional service will offer quicker, better, and long-lasting results, and you won't face issues later on. At Desert Dental, we can help improve your smile and confidence through teeth bleaching. Contact us to book an appointment today.

4 EXPLANATIONS FOR THOSE STRANGE CHIPS IN YOUR MOUTH

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 13:15:00 GMT

Many Americans love to chew on hard or crunchy foods, from chips and peanuts to hard candies and other challenging menu items. However, when you bite down and your teeth make contact with some unexpected hard lump or chip, you may quite literally have bitten off more than you can chew.

The presence of strange chips in your mouth don't necessarily spell trouble, but they can signal some unwanted changes either in your dental work or in your teeth themselves. If you wonder what you just bit down on and whether it requires professional attention, consider the following four possible explanations.

1. Dislodged Tartar

Hard, crunchy chips in your mouth often reveal themselves as bits of tartar. When food debris, saliva, bacteria, and mucous mix together on your tooth surfaces, they create a sticky substance called plaque. Over time, the plaque accumulates and hardens into tartar, which usually stays on the teeth until professional cleaning removes it.

Once in a while, tiny pieces of tartar can break away from your teeth. The sudden appearance of hard little chips in your mouth may naturally cause you to think that you've broken a tooth. However, you can usually tell tartar chips by their yellow, brown, or even black appearance. See your dentist if doubts remain.

2. Bone Spicules

Tooth extractions can vary in their invasiveness. Front teeth may come out without much work at all, while molars and wisdom teeth can call for additional effort. In many cases, a dentist will break the tooth into pieces to make extraction easier. This kind of surgery can leave behind little slivers of bone called bone spicules.

If you've recently undergone a molar or wisdom tooth extraction, your dentist removed any obvious spicules at that time. However, spicules still stuck to the jawbone can escape this step. When these spicules finally break away, you end up biting down on (or spitting out) these tiny bone chips.

You should see stray bone spicules disappear on their own within a few weeks of your dental procedure. If you still experience discomfort from slivers of bone that refuse to make their exit, your dentist can remove them for you.

3. Tooth Breakage

Occasionally, a hard chip in your mouth can come from a damaged tooth. An impact to the face or an unlucky bite into hard food can chip part of the enamel away from a tooth. A weak tooth may even break into multiple fragments in your mouth. If the chip exposes sensitive inner tissue, bite pressure or extreme temperatures can cause pain.

If you've kept the fragments of the damaged tooth, bring them to your dentist immediately. In many cases, dentists can reattach a tooth fragment by bonding the fragment back into place. If you can't save the fragments, a permanent crown may fix the tooth's appearance, reduce sensitivity, and prevent infection.

4. Tooth Breakage

Once people receive dental fillings, they tend to forget all about them. These plugs of metal or composite materials usually do their job without creating any discomfort or inconvenience. Unfortunately, changes in your enamel or the fillings themselves can cause them to wear out, lose their grip on the enamel, and fall out.

If the lost filling remains intact and the tooth that held it hasn't experienced any changes, the filling may only need re-bonding to the enamel. However, if new decay has set into the tooth, or if the filling has cracked or broken, your dentist will simply replace it with a new one.

Although a lost filling doesn't count as a dental emergency unless it causes you pain, you shouldn't let the problem go unattended. That hole in your tooth can invite bacteria into the pulp chamber, in which case you might need to undergo a root canal or extraction.

If you struggle with bone chips, a lost filling, a tooth fracture, or some other issue that has left mysterious chips in your mouth, schedule an appointment at Desert Dental. We can determine the nature of the problem and perform any necessary repairs or other procedures to get you feeling confident about your smile again.

Should You Consider Whitening Strips? What You Need To Know

Wed, 29 Dec 2021 13:34:00 GMT

If you want a quick and easy way to whiten your teeth at home, you may have considered whitening strips. You can purchase fairly inexpensive teeth whitening strips at most drug stores. However, you may wonder if teeth whitening strips actually work. Discover some things to know if you have considered teeth whitening strips to whiten your teeth at home.

Do Teeth Whitening Strips Actually Work?

Teeth whitening strips can get your teeth whiter, but the level of whitening strictly depends on how stained your teeth are. If you have minor stains due to eating or drinking things that commonly discolor teeth, whitening strips can be helpful in removing those stains. You may have to apply the strips more than once to notice a significant difference.

If your teeth have stains that go beyond the top surface of the teeth, whitening strips may not have as great an effect. Tooth stains that are due to mediation use, for example, will likely not lift without a professional bleaching application.

What Are Teeth Whitening Strips Made From?

Teeth whitening strips contain bleaching agents that are generally healthy to use at home as long as you follow the package directions. Teeth whitening strips contain peroxide. Two types of peroxide are used, depending on the brand of whitening strips.

Hydrogen peroxide, which you may have in your medicine cabinet, is one type of bleaching agent in teeth whitening strips. Carbamide peroxide is another form of bleach common in whitening strips.

Are Teeth Whitening Strips Bad For Your Teeth?

With proper use, teeth whitening strips are not bad for your teeth. The level of peroxide in whitening strips is minimal and cannot damage your teeth. You may notice some sensitivity when using whitening strips, especially if you are prone to tooth sensitivity. You should also not use whitening strips too frequently, as overuse can increase your sensitivity.

You may also notice some gum irritation when you use teeth whitening strips. The sensitivity can last for a few days, depending on the type of strips you use. For example, some teeth whitening strips are a 24-hour application and can cause more sensitivity than those that only require a 30-minute application.

As you research teeth whitening strips, look at the percentage of peroxide in the strips. The higher the percentage, the more likely you will endure tooth sensitivity.

Additionally, overuse of these strips can result in demineralization of the teeth. This leaves you prone to enamel loss and tooth damage.

Will Whitening Strips Whiten Non-natural Teeth?

If you have crowns, bridges, implants, or veneers and you want to lighten the shade, you will have to go to your dentist or orthodontist to replace them or request information to make them appear whiter. Tooth whitening strips will only bleach natural teeth.

Do Teeth Whitening Strips Permanently Bleach Your Teeth?

Tooth whitening strips remove stains from the surface level of the teeth. This means the teeth can stain again from eating and drinking normally. To maintain your desired level of whiteness, use whitening strips on a regular basis. Ideally, only use whitening strips once a month or less to avoid tooth damage and sensitivity.

What If You Want Better Whitening Results?

If you feel that tooth whitening strips have not done a good job of bleaching your teeth, opt to bleach your teeth professionally. Professional teeth whitening uses various techniques to get your teeth whiter with longer-lasting results.

If you are interested in professional teeth whitening, please give us a call at Desert Dental . We are happy to help you get the bright smile you desire. We look forward to seeing you soon.

ORAL HEALTH AND CANCER TREATMENTS

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 14:19:00 GMT

Most people are aware typical cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause adverse side effects, such as hair loss or nausea that makes eating difficult. However, people may be surprised to learn these treatments can also affect your dental and oral health. Discover what cancer patients should know.

How Do Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy Impact Oral Health?

Chemotherapy uses potent drugs to kill cancer cells. It is usually administered intravenously or by mouth. Chemotherapy works by weakening or destroying cancer cells, which can also help radiation treatments work better.

Radiation therapy uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells. This is the same radiation doctors and dentists use to take x-rays, but in much higher, concentrated doses than the brief, low dose for an x-ray. Radiation therapy may target a specific area or throughout the entire body. Depending on the type and location of the cancer, doctors may administer chemotherapy and radiation individually or in tandem.

Both chemotherapy and radiation treatments weaken or kill fast-growing cancer cells. Unfortunately, the cells of the mouth also grow fast. These treatments are unable to discriminate between cancerous and noncancerous cells, so they damage or destroy healthy cells as well. This can result in a wide array of adverse side effects, some of which affect the teeth and mouth.

What Kind of Oral Health Problems Occur With Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy?

Chemotherapy and radiation treatments each present complications. The complications from chemotherapy usually stop soon after the treatment ends, whereas the complications from radiation therapy may end - or they could linger long after treatment stops.

Common Chemotherapy Oral Health Side Effects

What are some ways that chemotherapy can be detrimental to your gums, teeth, and mouth?

Bleeding gums
Burning or bleeding tongue
Mouth ulcers
Pain in mouth and gums
Infection
Change in taste

Common Radiation Therapy Oral Health Side Effects

Discover how radiation therapy can impact your oral health:

Dry mouth from less or thickened saliva
Increased tooth decay and gum disease risk
Mouth ulcers
Infection
Jaw stiffness
Bone disease

Difficulty chewing and swallowing as well as changes in the healthy bacteria that reside in the mouth are common to both treatments and may make eating and drinking more difficult.

Can You Prevent Oral Health Problems From Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy?

Seeing a dentist before, during, and after cancer treatment can help prevent or lessen potential oral health complications. As with all aspects of cancer treatment, knowing what to expect can also make symptoms and side effects more manageable for patients.

Ideally, cancer patients should see their dentist before undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Treating any existing oral and dental issues before cancer treatments begin may reduce the severity of any potential side effects.

For example, active cavities are more likely to throw off the delicate balance of the good and bad bacteria that live in the mouth once chemotherapy or radiation therapy begins. This can lead to a bacteria overgrowth. Radiation treatment can affect bone growth, so a dentist should perform extractions first to prevent further complications.

Likewise, an ill-fitting denture or other dental appliance may increase the likelihood of future mouth sores. Because cancer treatments damage or destroy both cancerous and healthy cells, mouth sores may take longer to heal or may be more likely to become infected.

The cancer patient needs to keep their strength up, which requires eating a healthy, well-balanced diet. If you have unresolved dental issues, properly nourishing your body will be harder. By assessing and addressing dental issues before treatment begins, you can lessen the risk of complications.

Dentists can also offer preemptive treatments and prescription medications such as Corsodyl or Curasept mouthwashes. These medications help to reduce the bad bacteria that live in the mouth, which can reduce future complications. Mouthwashes to deal with dry mouth are another option.

The dentist is an integral member of a cancer care team who you should consult every step of the way. Contact Desert Dental today to develop an effective oral care plan.

HOW A DENTIST CAN HELP WITH TMJ DISORDER

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 14:38:00 GMT

Temporomandibular joint disorder, otherwise known as TMJ or TMD, causes significant pain and discomfort. Many people have this condition and don't know they can get relief. This condition has many potential causes, but a dentist can help narrow them down to help you get relief. Here is more information about TMJ disorder, who gets it, what causes it, and how your dentist can help.

What Is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder involves a problem with the temporomandibular joint that hinders its proper movement. This joint is where your jaw meets your skull's temporal bone. A slim cartilage disk cushions the joint and allows the jaw to move smoothly. However, when the bones, cartilage, and muscles have problems, you may have pain and difficulty with jaw function.

What Causes TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder causes are mostly unknown. The disorder tends to affect women more than men. Though doctors don't know why women get it more, hormones and nutrition may be a factor. Some doctors and dentists think the chances of having this disorder are higher if you clench or grind your teeth. Trauma and arthritis may cause joint problems and misalignment.

What Are TMJ Disorder's Symptoms?

For most people, symptoms occur around the joint or ear. With some people, the pain radiates to other areas. Below is a list of symptom descriptions common with TMJ disorder.

You Have Swelling and Pain at the Joint

You may feel pain either directly at the joint or that radiates from the side of your head. The area may feel tender and swollen. You may also experience pain in your neck and shoulders, which can include headaches.

You Cannot Open Your Jaw Wide

Your jaw muscles may feel stiff, and you can't open the jaw as wide as before. Some people may also experience tiredness in their jaw and face.

Your Jaw Sticks or Locks in One Position

You may have trouble opening or closing your mouth, and your jaw may seem to lock in place.

You Feel a Click or Pop When You Move Your Jaw

Clicks and pops indicate that your joint is not aligned properly or that you have damaged cartilage.

You Feel Like You Have a Toothache

Sometimes, TMJ pain may make you feel that you have molar pain.

How Does the Dentist Diagnose TMJ Disorder?

A dentist's office is a good place to rule out other tooth and jaw issues. TMJ disorder has no specific standardized tests. The dentist will take a health history and check your jaw for unusual movements and sounds. He or she may take X-rays to look for hidden trauma or tooth issues. The dentist may also refer you to a specialist for further diagnosis and imaging with CT scans and MRIs.

What Are Common TMJ Disorder Treatments?

TMJ disorder has no known cure, but you can relieve the pain in several ways. You may need to take painkillers and eat soft foods until your condition improves. Hot and cold packs may reduce swelling and pain as well. Dentists often advise people with this condition to refrain from gum chewing, since it can tire out the muscles. For some people, the condition may resolve itself over time with rest and precautions.

If the potential cause is tooth clenching or grinding, the dentist may prescribe an appliance to prevent those issues. You may also need physical therapy to exercise and strengthen the jaw muscles so they keep the jaw aligned better. Very rarely does this condition require surgery or injections.

TMJ disorder can cause problems with your jaw movement and affect your quality of life. This condition may make chewing and talking difficult. For some people, the cause is related to dental issues. Desert Dental can help you with jaw alignment problems. Our office handles many dental issues, including TMJ disorder issues. If you have pain around your teeth and jaw, give us a call for an examination.

TIPS FOR RELIVING NIGHTTIME TOOTHACHE

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 15:01:00 GMT

Toothaches tend to worsen at night. However, you don't have to resign yourself to a sleepless night just because you have a toothache. Knowing why your toothache intensifies at night can help you mitigate the pain. Below are some tips to help you relieve nighttime toothache.

Elevate Your Head

Dental infections, such as gum disease, irritate, bruise, and inflame the surrounding soft tissues. Once that happens, blood pressure from the vessels around the tooth root and gums will affect the damaged tissues and cause pain. Relieving the pressure can reduce your pain.

One way of relieving the pressure is to sleep with your head elevated above the rest of your body. Elevating your head works by reducing blood flow, and also pressure, to the head. You can use a soft pillow for the elevation.

Avoid Aggravating Foods and Drinks

Some foods and drinks can worsen your toothache. Examples include:

Extremely cold or hot food that irritates your inflamed tissues
Acidic food that erodes your gums
Sugary food that feeds the bacteria in your mouth

Avoid such foods if your toothache begins before dinner and make sure to only eat tooth-friendly snacks at night.

Brush and Floss

Brushing and flossing might be uncomfortable with a toothache, but you shouldn't ignore your oral hygiene routines at this time. For one, food particles trapped in your teeth can aggravate the pain. Secondly, the effects of some of the acidic foods might worsen with time.

Brushing and flossing before going to bed will help you deal with both issues. Just be gentle about it, especially around the infected teeth.

Use a Cold Compress

Tissue inflammation is one of the causes of toothache. The inflamed tissues cause pain by pressing against nearby tissues. Thus, reducing inflammation may help reduce the pain.

Use a cold compress to reduce inflammation. A cold compress works by constricting the blood vessels and reducing the volume of blood flowing through them. You can do this by holding a bag of ice on the affected cheek (from the outside) for a few minutes. You may have to repeat the treatment a few times since the effect is temporary.

Use Natural Pain Remedies

Some people have had some success with natural remedies for toothache. Some of the natural remedies include:

Clove oil, which you soak in a cotton ball and place on the affected teeth
Peppermint, which you can use in the form of a used tea bag placed on the affected teeth
Garlic, which you crush, make into a paste, and apply to the affected teeth
Vanilla extract, which you can just rub with a finger over the affected teeth
Clove, which you can crush and use in a teabag or apply as a paste on the affected teeth

Just remember that natural remedies give mixed results and might not work for everyone.

Use Disinfectants

Rinsing your mouth with disinfectants can also help by reducing the level of bacteria in your mouth. Some disinfectants you can use include:

Warm saline rinse (a half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water is adequate)
Mouthwash that contains alcohol
A mixture of one part hydrogen peroxide and one part water

Use whatever you have readily available since all will work.

Take an OTC Pain Medication

Lastly, you can also use any over-the-counter pain medication for your toothache. Many of the pain medications work by minimizing both pain and inflammation. Just ensure you stick to the correct dosage even if your pain is severe.

The tips above can give you temporary relief, but you need dental diagnosis and treatment for more permanent relief. Desert Dental can help you with all your dental problems. Contact us and benefit from our skills, experience, and professionalism to give you the relief you need.

4 WAYS TO PREVENT FLUOROSIS IN CHILDREN

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 15:11:00 GMT

It's an exciting time in your child's life when they lose their baby teeth and their adult teeth grow in. Sometimes, a child's permanent teeth may grow in with small white streaks or stains on the tooth. In most cases, the stains are caused by a condition known as fluorosis.

Fluorosis is almost exclusive to children without adult teeth and means they have been exposed to too much fluoride. While fluoride provides a natural way to protect teeth, too much can lead to cosmetic differences in teeth. Learn about four ways to prevent fluorosis so the permanent teeth can grow without any stains or streaks.

1. Proper Brushing Techniques

When a child starts to brush their teeth, establish habits to help prevent fluorosis. The first is to limit the amount of toothpaste a child uses. During their first couple of years, you should only use a small streak of toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. Once a full mouth of baby teeth grows in, increase the toothpaste to the size of a pea.

If you use an excessive amount, a child may have too much fluoride exposure that builds up over time. You should also teach your child proper ways to spit after they brush. If a child swallows a lot of toothpaste, then the fluoride levels can dramatically increase. Consider having a child swish water around and spit out excess toothpaste after each brushing session.

2. Local Water Testing

The amount of fluoride found in your drinking water can make a big difference in the exposure your child has. If your home has public water, then you're supposed to receive notice when fluoride levels are higher than the recommended amount. If your home uses well water, then the only way to know is through testing.

Every couple of years, you should have your well water tested for fluoride levels. If the levels are too high, then consider alternate drinking water options. Bottled water or filtered water has better control of fluoride levels and will prevent over-exposure for your child.

3. Children's Drinks

Many healthy drinks catered to children come packed with nutrients and extras, but you should always read the labels for the drinks. Some juices or flavored waters may contain extra fluoride to help boost cavity protection in teeth, but too much consumption could lead to fluorosis.

Many natural juices contain increased levels of fluoride as well. For example, many forms of grape juices and pineapple juices contain high levels of fluoride. Prevent fluorosis by alternating drink options and limiting the amount of fruit juice in the home. Filtered water is typically the best option to prevent fluoride exposure.

4. Routine Dental Cleanings

For many, the presence of early-stage fluorosis is impossible to see. The best way to check a child's teeth is through routine dental cleaning. When your child loses their first tooth, you should schedule a cleaning. The cleaning includes a full oral exam and a dentist will take a close look at the incoming adult tooth.

If early signs of fluorosis are present, then a dentist can help you figure out ways to cut down on fluoride intake. If the fluorosis persists, then a dentist will help clean and whiten the teeth to eliminate the streaks and discoloration that may appear.

A dentist will teach a child proper ways to brush and tell them the importance of spitting after brushing. When heard from a professional, a child may be more prone to follow directions. A dentist will use visuals to showcase the proper amount of toothpaste and the best ways to rinse a mouth.

Schedule an appointment with our experienced dental team at Desert Dental . We will help treat your child for fluorosis or any other dental problems that occur.

THE TOP WAYS TO PREVENT DENTAL DECAY AND DAMAGE

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 15:48:00 GMT

Can you prevent dental problems before they start? According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 92 percent of adults ages 20 to 64 have dental caries (cavities). If you don't want to join the many Americans with dental disease, take a look at what you need to know about the potential problems and prevention.

Brush the Right Way

You brush twice a day. But do you brush the right way? Even though you may have the best electric toothbrush that promises to remove plaque, you may stil leave cavity-causing debris behind. To maximize at-home care and reduce the risk of decay, infection, or other oral issues:

Choose the right paste product. Start with an American Dental Association (ADA) accepted fluoride toothpaste. While some so-ca led natural products claim to clean your teeth just as we l as a fluoride-containing paste, this ingredient is needed to help prevent cavities.
Use a 45-degree angle. To effectively remove debris and decay-causing buildup, position your brush at 45-angle (in relation to your gums).
Don't skip any surface. You need to brush the front, back, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. If you skip one surface, plaque could build up. This could result in dental decay or other oral issues.

Technique alone won't completely eliminate the risk of dental decay. Along with how you brush your teeth, pay attention to the tools you use. Choose a brush with soft, intact bristles. Replace the brush every three to four months. If the bristles bend, break, or fray, replace your brush sooner.

Choose Food Wisely

At-home dental care is an essential step in cavity prevention, but it's not the only way to stop dental disease and other issues before they start. The foods you eat and beverages you drink also play roles in your mouth's health. To prevent dental dilemmas:

Avoid sugary foods and drinks. Candy, cookies, frosted cupcakes, fruit juices, and soda can lead to dental decay. Sugary foods and drinks feed the bacteria in your mouth. The bacteria produce acids that can wear away enamel and cause cavities.
Stay away from hard or sharp foods. Decay isn't the only dental issue to watch out for. Hard candy, ice, and other sharp foods can crack or break teeth.
Limit acidic foods and drinks. Citrus fruits and juices (and other acidic drinks, such as some types of soda) can wear away enamel. This exposes your teeth and increases the cavity risk.

Along with dental decay and damage, some foods and drinks can stain your teeth. While whitening treatments can ef ectively reduce the appearance of stains, a change in your eating/drinking habits can stop this issue before it starts.

Schedule a Check-Up

When was the last time you went to the dentist? Even though proper brushing and the right food/drink choices can help to prevent decay, damage, and other dental problems, you stil need to see a professional for regular care. As part of a preventive maintenance strategy, dental check-ups:

Provide a deep cleaning. The hygienist can get to the in-between areas you may miss. The dental professional can also clean at the gum line and polish your teeth in a way you can't at home.
Help to spot decay early on. The dentist will examine your teeth and possibly take X-rays. If you have new decay, a crack, other damage, or another oral issue, the dentist can address the problem before it goes from minor to major.
Offer education. Do you still have concerns or questions about dental care? A check-up is the perfect time to ask the dentist for help. The dental of ice staff can show you how to brush, recommend at-home care products, and discuss issues you may have.

The dentist can also recommend or discuss other preventative options - such as sealants or porcelain veneers. These cover the teeth and can stop decay before it starts. Sealants are clear coatings that can reduce or stop cavity formation. Veneers are tooth-colored covers that can also brighten or straighten your smile.

Do you need to schedule a check-up? Contact Desert Dental for more information.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR AN IN-OFFICE TEETH WHITENING SESSION

Mon, 24 May 2021 16:14:00 GMT

The success of teeth whitening depends on many factors. And although you pay more for in-office teething whitening, this method will often give you the best results. This is because in-office whitening caters to the needs of each specific patient. But good preparation beforehand is crucial to the success of your treatment.

If you plan to hire a dentist to whiten your teeth, make sure you prepare yourself and your teeth before your whitening session. Good preparation ensures good results. Prepare for your teeth-whitening session in the following ways.

Switch to a Desensitizing Toothpaste

Teeth normally become a little sensitive during and after a whitening procedure. This is normal. During the whitening process, the blue or UV light along with the whitening chemicals may cause teeth to become sensitive. Teeth contain pores as well as tubules that contain liquid, and these pores and tubules can transmit the sensations that heat and chemicals bring.

This sensitivity is bearable, but you can lessen the level of sensitivity by switching to desensitizing toothpaste several weeks before your teeth whitening session. Desensitizing toothpaste closes the pores responsible for transmitting sensation to the tooth nerves. This is important if you have especially sensitive teeth.

Remove Staining Foods From Your Diet Prior to Whitening

To improve the results of your whitening session, stop partaking of foods that contain heavy staining molecules a few weeks before your whitening appointment. Remember that beverages like tea, coffee, and red wine contain tannins, which can stain teeth badly. Switch to some lighter alternatives, such as milk or white wine.

And remember that dark or brightly colored foods also stain teeth. Before your whitening appointment, avoid tomato sauces in pasta and pizzas, as well as ketchup and brightly colored vegetables like broccoli or beetroot.

The less staining your teeth have prior to your whitening appointment, the more likely you'll be able to achieve the shade that you desire.

Ensure You Have Plenty of Time for Your Appointment

Although, on average, in-office whitening takes from 30 to 60 minutes, make sure you don't have to rush your whitening appointment. If, for some reason, you need more time to achieve your ideal shade, but you run out of time, you won't get the best out of your whitening appointment.

As such, allow yourself at least a couple of hours for your appointment. This will give you and your dentist time to whiten your teeth to the shade you desire. And you'll have time to talk to your dentist about how best to care for your teeth post-whitening treatment.

Book a Dental Checkup Before Your Whitening Session

Be sure that you don't have any untreated dental issues before your whitening treatment. If you have a hidden cavity and you whiten your teeth, the whitening bleach can enter the cavity and irritate your tooth. This can be painful and could damage the nerve inside your tooth. Book a dental checkup to ensure that you don't have any hidden cavities.

And during the checkup, your dentist can see if you need a dental cleaning or not. Clean teeth whiten better than teeth covered in tartar and plaque.

Go Over a Shade Guide With Your Dentist

Before your whitening session, use a shade guide with your dentist to identify the shade that you want to achieve. Your dentist can also use this time to work out what kind of shade is most realistic for you according to your natural shade and the current shade of your teeth. A shade guide can also give you a clear idea of what your whitening results will look like after your whitening session.

If you aren't happy with your teeth's current shade of white, a professional chairside whitening session can help. At Desert Dental, we can whiten your teeth by up to 12 shades in just 60 minutes. Call us today to book your in-office teeth whitening appointment. With our help, you'll soon have the winning smile that you desire.

COMPLICATIONS OF GUM DISEASE

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 16:45:00 GMT

Gum disease is a common oral ailment, so some people don't take it seriously enough. Unfortunately, untreated gum disease can evolve into dangerous and costly complications. Below are some of these complications.

Dental Abscesses

An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms due to a bacterial infection. The abscess forms when the bacterial infection deepens and destroys the affected tissues. A dental abscess can also trigger other symptoms, such as:

Sensitivity to extreme temperatures
Fever
Cheek swelling
Difficulty swallowing
Swollen lymph nodes

A dental abscess won't go away by itself without treatment.

Chronic Pain

Gum disease is not always painful in its infancy. The absence of pain is one reason people don't take gum disease seriously; many only seek dental care if the situation worsens. Early warning signs of gum disease include:

Bad breath
Tender gums
Bleeding gums, especially when brushing

The situation changes if you ignore the warning signs and the gum disease worsens. In such a case, complications such as inflammation and abscesses trigger chronic pain that won't go away without treatment.

Gum Recession

Gum disease, as the name suggests, primarily attacks the gum tissues. Without treatment, the bacteria will destroy most gum tissues, including the gingiva part attached teeth. Gingiva damage will cause the gums to pull away from the teeth progressively.

Gum recession creates multiple problems. For example:

A receding gum line is a cosmetic problem since it exposes your teeth's roots and makes them appear longer than normal.
The exposed teeth roots will be more susceptible to damage (bacterial or mechanical) since they lack the protective enamel.
The exposed roots increase your risk of teeth sensitivity.

The more your gums recede, the worse these problems will be.

Teeth Loss or Migration

Over time, the bacteria that trigger gum disease won't confine themselves to the gums. The infection will spread to the surrounding tissues, including those that attach the teeth to the jaw bone. The infection will weaken the teeth attachment and trigger their mobility.

Such mobile teeth are likely to move out of their usual alignment. In extreme cases, some teeth might even fall out of their sockets. In the long term, the missing teeth might trigger further complications, such as speech and chewing difficulties.

Jawbone Damage

Even the jawbone is not safe from the bacteria that cause gum disease. Once the bacteria weaken the jawbone, they can damage and reduce its density. You might lose your teeth then, even if they were still present at this point.

In addition, the damaged jawbone complicates the option of a dental implant if you want permanent teeth replacement. You might have to get a bone graft before the implant. The bone graft increases the over all cost and duration of the dental implant procedure.

Cardiovascular Complications

In extreme cases, the bacterial infection might move from your oral cavity into your blood vessels. If that happens, the bacteria can circulate throughout your body and attack other vital organs. The lung and the heart, for example, handle blood all the time and can easily develop complications from the bacterial attack.

Other Possible Complications

The medical industry hasn't exhausted the list of gum disease complications. For example, a link exists between extreme gum disease and other ailments, such as:

Stroke
Premature birth
Diabetes

Even though studies haven't clarified how gum disease can trigger such diseases, you can't rule it out as a causative factor. Thus, the best thing is to err on the side of caution and deal with gum disease early.

Desert Dental Kamran Ruintan D.M.D., F.A.G.D., can provide you with preventive dental care to reduce the risk of dental diseases, such as gum disease. We can also help you deal with gum disease before it worsens and triggers any of the above complications. Contact us for a dental appointment at your convenience.

FOOD STUCK IN YOUR TEETH? CONSIDER THESE 4 KEY POINTS

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 17:26:00 GMT

Few situations cause more annoyance than a popcorn hull, bit of stringy meat, or other piece of food that gets stuck between your teeth or in your gum line. This uninvited guest not only feels acutely uncomfortable, but it can also contribute to dental complications. Incorrectly removing the stuck food may only make things worse.

When you have a piece of food stuck in your teeth, you want immediate solutions, but not at the cost of your future dental well-being. Pay attention to the following four key points about this irritating issue, from common causes to smart removal strategies.

1. Foods That Commonly Get Stuck

Any food particle possessing the right combination of thinness, rigidity, and resilience can break away from larger bites and get lodged in the tight spaces between teeth. These same particles may also get pushed upward or downward until they rest within the periodontal pockets of the gums (a problem that can worsen gum disease).

Certain snacks have well-earned reputations for causing such problems. For example, popcorn typically has sharp, thin pieces of the hulls still attached to the popped kernels. Potato chips leave sticky crumbs in the crevices of your teeth. Meats and leafy vegetables can leave tough strands between your teeth.

2. Proper Removal Methods

If you feel a piece of food caught in your teeth or gums, you may manage to encourage its release simply by chewing, since this action causes slight motions that can allow the trapped particles to come out. Swishing water in your mouth can also help push food particles out.

If you still have a trapped piece of food to contend with, brush your teeth normally with a special focus on the area in question. You may also need to direct the food out of its hiding place with your tongue or a finger.

Flossing offers a safe yet highly effective option for ridding your teeth and gums of trapped food. If your normal flossing routine doesn't work, tie a tiny, tight knot in the floss and try again. The knot provides extra resistance which may dislodge the food. If you don't have any traditional floss, use a water flosser.

3. Improper Removal Methods

Despite their widespread availability and popularity for removing trapped food particles, toothpicks can do more harm than good. These thin, pointed wooden sticks may indeed remove a stubborn piece of food, but they can also damage tooth enamel, chip restorations, hurt your gums, or even break and splinter (with the splinters getting stuck as well).

Other hard, sharp objects pose similar risk to your dental health. Resist the temptation to use a fork, knife, or any other tool not intended for dental hygiene. Even a fingernail can jab its way into your gums, lacerating them and opening up a potential pathway for infection.

4. When to See Your Dentist

If a piece of trapped food doesn't immediately emerge from between your teeth using acceptable tools or methods, go ahead and schedule a dental appointment. If you let the trapped food sit too long, it may decay, potentially causing cavities or abscesses. It can even cause your teeth to shift out of their normal positions.

Your dentist can use professional instruments and techniques to remove a piece of trapped food quickly, easily, and painlessly. If your teeth tend to collect food particles due to tartar buildup or an existing cavity, you can receive on-the-spot cleanings, fillings, or other treatment to fix the problem.

Desert Dental can help you keep your mouth clean, your teeth healthy, and your smile free of unsightly, uncomfortable debris. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment and any dental care you may require.

ORAL CARE TIPS DURING ILLNESS

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 17:41:00 GMT

An illness can make it difficult for you to care for your oral health. Some aspects of your illness also increase your risk of oral or dental problems. Take the following measures to preserve your oral health even if you are bedridden.

Choose Sugar-free Drugs

Many drugs, such as cough medicine, contain sugar. Oral bacteria feed on the sugar and produce acids, which erode your teeth enamel. Eroded enamel weakens your teeth and increases your risk of dental caries.

Choose sugar-free medicine whenever possible. This advice is especially useful for drugs you have to take continuously or suck on. If not possible, rinse your mouth every time you take your medicine. Rinsing will reduce the level of remnant sugar in your mouth.

Rinse After Vomiting

Your stomach's contents are usually acidic. The acid can weaken and erode your teeth every time you throw up. Because of this, you should rinse your mouth with water every time you throw up to minimize the damage. But don't brush immediately after throwing up. Otherwise, the brushing will intensify the erosion since your teeth will still be weak due to the acid exposure.

Stay Hydrated

Some diseases dry out your mouth. A dry mouth is bad for your oral health since you need saliva to clean your mouth. The risk of bacteria attack, which can cause various diseases, including gum diseases, is high from a dry mouth. A dry mouth is also likely to smell. The solution is to stay hydrated by regularly sipping water, even when you don't feel thirsty.

Go Easy on Energy Drinks

You may turn to energy drinks to boost your energy levels if your illness has left you weak. However, energy drinks tend to be full of sugar, which can lead to teeth damage, as previously explained. Limit your intake of energy drinks to minimize the damage. Instead, get adequate rest, eat nutritious foods, and follow your physician's instructions.

Use a Soft Toothbrush

Some illnesses can make your gums swollen and unusually tender, which might make brushing painful. You might be tempted to forgo brushing and flossing to avoid the pain and discomfort. However, regular brushing and flossing are necessary for good oral health.

Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush (if you don't already use one) to lessen the discomfort. Also, take your time while cleaning your teeth and be as gentle with them as much as possible.

Rinse the Toothbrush Thoroughly

Your toothbrush can transfer germs to your mouth and make you sick. Don't forget that your gums might be susceptible to bacterial attacks if they are swollen and tender. To prevent this infection, rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after every use to minimize germs transfer. You should also let the toothbrush air dry before storage – many germs thrive in moist areas.

Store Toothbrushes Separately

Don't store your toothbrush with other toothbrushes in the house. This is good advice at any time, but it is particularly helpful if someone is sick. Separate storage will minimize the risk of cross-infection. Moreover, your illness can also weaken your immune system and increase your susceptibility to further germ attacks.

Ask for Help If Necessary

Lastly, don't hesitate to ask for help with your oral care. For example, you might need help if:

Your hands can't hold your floss or toothbrush properly
You can't sit or get into a position where you can brush and spit easily
You cannot clean your toothbrush on your own

Your dental care should be part of your overall health care. Otherwise, you might develop oral or dental problems during or after your illness.

Make an effort to get regular dental checkups even when ill. You should also consult your dentist if you start to develop oral or dental problems during your illness. Contact Desert Dental for dental consultations and treatments during this or any other time.

MAJOR FACTORS THAT DIFFERENTIATE DENTAL VENEERS

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 18:50:00 GMT

You can use dental veneers to cover up imperfections on your teeth. With your input, your dentist will customize the treatment to give you veneers that meet your needs. Learn more about the different kinds of dental veneers and how they differ.

Material

The different materials for dental veneers have different properties. Below are the common materials.

Ceramic

Ceramic or porcelain veneers have been in use for a long time. Ceramic veneers are thin, relatively inexpensive, and strong. Many people like ceramic veneers since they easily mimic natural teeth color. Treatment by ceramic veneers is irresistible.

Composite

Composite or bonded veneers, made from resin, are easier to install than ceramic veneers. Although the treatment is reversible, composite veneers are neither as durable nor as strong as ceramic veneers.

Zirconia

Zirconia, a metal, is probably the strongest material for veneers. The veneers are useful for weak teeth that require strengthening. Treatment with zirconia veneers is also irreversible since it entails considerable teeth preparation.

Fabrication

Veneers undergo different fabrication methods. Below are some of these methods.

CAD

Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics (CEREC) is the technical term for veneer fabrication that involves the use of computer-aided design (CAD) technology. The technology uses an image of your teeth to fabricate customized ceramic veneers. The treatment process is fast – you can get your veneers within the same day.

Stacked Ceramic

Some people don't like the aesthetics of CEREC veneers. Consider stacked ceramic veneers if aesthetics is top of your requirements. In this fabrication process, a laboratory technician uses their hands to stack different layers of ceramic materials. The result is a perfectly customized veneer/

Pressed Ceramic

In this process, a laboratory technician presses and heats ceramic material to the desired shape and strength. The process creates extremely strong and durable veneers, but they might not be as thin as other veneers.

Brand

Veneer is a generic term for dental materials used to cover teeth surfaces. Different companies produce different brands of veneers. Below are some common brands.

LUMINEERS (R) – they are thin but still involve some teeth preparation
Vivaneers (TM) – they are hand waxed to match the natural aesthetics of the teeth
DURAthin (R) – they are so thin that they don't always necessitate teeth preparation
Empress – they resist damage due to teeth grinding and clenching

Veneers come in many different brands — the above are just a few examples. Your dentist will advise you on a suitable brand based on your needs.

Shape

Many people use veneers to improve their dental appearance. Since shape also determines the appearance of teeth, dental veneers also come in different shapes. For example, you can choose from:

Square veneers
Veneers with rounded edges
Veneers with sharp edges

In most cases, your teeth's shape determines the shape of veneers to get. However, you can choose veneers of different shapes and use them to change your teeth's shape. For example, some people think that those with round faces look better with prolonged veneers. Your dentist may show you computer images of your teeth with different veneers to help you choose.

Installation

Dentists use different methods to install veneers. Some methods require more teeth preparation than others. For example, you may be a candidate for minimal-prep or no-prep veneers that involve little or no teeth preparation, respectively. The veneer treatment can also last as short as a day or take several days. The condition of the damaged teeth determines the treatment process.

A good dentist will give you an overview of the treatment process before they begin. Desert Dental is a caring and experienced dental office that cares for the whole family. Contact us for dental veneers or other forms of dental treatment.

THE FIGHT AGAINST GUM DISEASE: ARM YOURSELF WITH THE RIGHT TOOLS

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 19:46:00 GMT

Do you have gum disease? According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 47 percent of adults 30 and over have a periodontal problem. If you're one of the many Americans with gum disease, take a look at the top toothbrush and dental tool questions answered.

Should You Use a Manual or Electric Toothbrush?

There's no universal answer or best option for every dental patient. Periodontal disease requires special care. But that doesn't always mean a stronger or more vigorous style of brushing. Before you choose between manual and electric, consider:

Your dentist's advice. Every dental patient has different periodontal needs. The dentist will evaluate your individual needs and help you to understand which choice is the better option for your gums and mouth.
Your brushing style. Do you brush aggressively? Some dental patients brush more vigorously than they should with a manual brush. This can irritate your gums and cause more damage. If you go too far with a manual type of brush, try an electric alternative.
Your motor skills. A manual toothbrush isn't easy to move properly for some people. If you have fine motor or movement issues, an electric toothbrush is a better option for a complete clean.

Whether you choose manual or electric, an old or worn toothbrush won't help your gums to heal. Broken bristles and severe wear leave the brush ineffective. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends patients replace their brushes every three to four months (or when the bristles fray).

Should You Use a Soft, Medium, or Hard Toothbrush?

What type of bristles should your brush have? Both manual and electric brushes come in soft (or extra-soft), medium, and hard or firm bristle strengths. While you might think hard bristles would give you the deep clean your gums need, a firm brush isn't always the best choice. To help your gums heal and prevent ongoing dental disease:

Select softer over firmer. A hard or firm brush can scrape your gums. This can cause abrasions and irritate already delicate tissue.
Change the pressure. If you prefer a medium or firm bristle type, you may need to lighten your touch. Again, rough brushing can make it hard for your gums to heal. While a softer bristle is best, a medium toothbrush with a light touch could protect your gums.
Ask the dentist. The dentist knows your gums and your dental history. Ask your dentist for their expert opinion. They can help you to choose the right bristle type or strength for your individual needs.

Never sacrifice brushing time for a firmer bristle. The ADA recommends brushing for two minutes at least two times a day. If the bristles are too firm to brush for a full two minutes, move to a softer option.

Should You Only Brush?

Toothbrush choice isn't the only factor in the fight against gum disease. The first step is a dentist's diagnosis. After an in-office exam, the dentist may recommend other tools to reduce the impact of periodontal disease.

Along with your manual or electric toothbrush, other at-home care options include:

Dental floss. Your toothbrush may not reach the deep in-between spaces. Remove plaque and debris from these areas with dental floss. Floss after brushing to increase the effectiveness of your overall gum care routine.
Interdental cleaners. If floss isn't easy for you to maneuver, an interdental cleaner can help. These include dental picks, interdental brushes, and other similar tools.
A water device. A water pick or other similar device can also help to clear and clean the in-between areas of your mouth.

Like brush choice, the dentist can also help you with floss or interdental cleaner selection. Ask your dentist which option will help you to turn around gum disease without added irritation.

Do you need a dental exam? Contact Desert Dental for more information.

COMMON REASONS YOU COULD HAVE PAIN AFTER DENTAL WORK

Sat, 18 Jul 2020 19:59:00 GMT

When you go to the dentist for dental work, such as getting a cavity filled or a crown replaced, you might be discouraged when your mouth still hurts for days after the procedure.

Mouth tenderness is common after dental procedures because your mouth has soft tissues that can become agitated as a result of drilling and receiving needles for anesthesia. However, this discomfort should fade within a couple of days, and it definitely should not get worse.

If you have pain in your mouth that persists after your dental appointment, contact your dentist to learn if one of the following reasons might be the culprit.

1. Improper Bite Alignment

When you get a cavity filled, your dentist removes the decayed area of the tooth and replaces it with a composite material that matches the color of your original tooth. Your dentist does their best to get the filling to match the shape of your original tooth.

However, sometimes this shaping is not perfect, and the filling might sit too high, causing pain whenever you bite down because the bite force of your jaw is concentrated on that tiny filling, instead of distributed through a matched set of teeth. The force irritates the nerve below the tooth, and you will feel pain.

Fortunately, this type of post-procedure pain is easy to fix. Simply call your dentist to have your bite checked. Filing down a filling that is too large takes very little time, and you won't need any more anesthesia to do it.

2. Jaw Tenderness

Jaw tenderness is another common complaint for dental patients. Sometimes, especially if the procedure you need takes a long time, your jaw muscles and joints can get tired of being open so wide for so long. You can experience tenderness that radiates from the back of your mouth, making it feel like your teeth are hurting, but the pain is really joint and muscle soreness.

You can help to treat jaw tenderness by focusing on relaxing your mouth when resting. Try not to clench your teeth at all. You can take medications like ibuprofen for muscle pain and to reduce overall inflammation. You might even gently massage the jaw area through your cheek to help reduce the tension there.

If you still do not have relief, talk to your dentist about temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ).

TMJ occurs when the pain in the jaw joint area becomes more persistent, and dental procedures can sometimes worsen this pain. You might experience popping, the inability to fulling open your mouth, or pain when chewing. A mouth guard or relaxants might help to keep the pain in check.

3. Large-Scale Treatment

Some dental procedures are more invasive than others. A small cavity, for example, can be filled with little incident, and you can be on your way. A larger cavity, on the other hand, might go deeper into the tooth, much closer to the nerve.

While large cavities still can be repaired without the need for root canal surgery, the force of the procedure still aggravates the nerve, and you might still experience residual pain and sensitivity for days or even weeks after the tooth is repaired.

To reduce pain, use over-the-counter pain medications, and be gentle with your tooth as it heals. Avoid extremes in temperature and use gentle pressure when brushing and flossing.

5. Poor Post-Procedure Care

Finally, pain after dental treatments can come from not following post-operative care instructions from your dentist. For example, if you have a tooth removed, you need to be careful to preserve the cleanliness of the wound and avoid opening it back up after it has clotted.

This might mean avoiding chewing and solid foods and not using a straw to drink liquids. When a person avoids this advice, they increase the risk of infection or wound contamination, and they can experience great pain as their mouth doesn't heal the way it should.

For more information, contact us at Desert Dental .

4 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT ROOT CANALS

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 20:47:00 GMT

When you go for a dental exam, the last thing you want to hear is that you need to have a dental procedure. You especially don't want to hear the dreaded words root canal. Many people think a root canal sounds scary. This is mainly because they don't really know what is involved with a root canal.

To help you overcome your fear of the unknown, and to help you realize a root canal isn't so bad, here are four things to know about this dental procedure.

1. Know Why You Need a Root Canal

Each of your teeth contains a soft area in the center called pulp. This pulp contains the nerve, blood vessels, and connective tissue. The nerves in your teeth are also called roots. When there is decay in your tooth's root or pulp, it causes inflammation and infection, which is why the decay needs to be removed.

The procedure to remove this decay and preserve the tooth is called a root canal. If you have any of the following symptoms, you may need a root canal:

Persistent tooth pain
Sensitivity to heat and cold
Discolored tooth
Swollen gums
Loose tooth

These are all possible signs you need a root canal. However, only a dentist will be able to tell you for sure whether you need a root canal or any other kind of dental procedure.

2. Know That a Root Canal Isn't Painful

Did you know that more than 15 million root canals are performed in the United States each year? This means that dentists perform about 41,000 root canals each day. Not only are root canals one of the most routine dental procedures performed, they are one of the least painful procedures. In fact, when a root canal is performed, excessive pain is not normal.

Thanks to the use of anesthetics, along with modern dental tools and procedures, a root canal is relatively painless. Any discomfort usually happens after the procedure is over. In most cases, tenderness will go away within a few days of the procedure.

Many people take over-the-counter pain medications to help ease this discomfort. Some people also use ice packs to help reduce the swelling. If the tenderness and swelling does not go away after a few days, you should contact your dentist. You should also contact your dentist if you notice any bleeding, if there is pus around the tooth, or if you have a fever.

3. Know What Recovery Is Like Following a Root Canal

When you have a root canal, you will receive a temporary filling. Because of this filling, plus the fact your mouth will be sensitive in the days following a root canal, extra care is required.

You shouldn't bite down or chew with the tooth that received the root canal. You can however, continue to brush and floss your teeth as you normally would. Most people return to work the next day following a root canal.

4. Know How Much a Root Canal Costs

Like many dental procedures, root canals are somewhat expensive. Root canals typically cost around $1,000. This cost differs, depending on the location of the tooth that needs the root canal.

For example, a root canal performed on the front teeth usually costs between $900 and $1,100. If a root canal is performed on a tooth in the back, it could cost as much as $2,000. Most dental insurance plans cover half the cost of a root canal.

If you live in Phoenix, AZ, and need to have your teeth examined, contact Desert Dental. Our dentist, Kamran Ruintan, D.M.D., provides dentistry services for the whole family. These dentistry services include root canals , general dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry.

KETO DIET & DENTAL HEALTH: 4 THINGS TO BE AWARE OF

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 21:16:00 GMT

When you start a new diet, you are focused on losing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The changes often mean you will introduce a number of new foods into your diet. Along with a focus on your weight, you should also be aware of the food's impact on your oral health.

Your teeth and gums may experience a dramatic change in the amount of exposure to a variety of foods. With the Keto diet, consider a variety of oral health changes and possible concerns to bring up to your dentist. Once you are aware of the changes, you can focus on both your weight loss goals and your oral health.

1. Seafood & Meat Bones

One of the core elements of a Keto diet is an increase of meat and seafood consumption. A number of meats contain bones, including various steaks, chicken legs, and chicken wings. A variety of fish include small bones as well. As you eat the food, a hard bite down on a bone could cause tooth damage. You may chip or crack your teeth.

A hard enough bite could also extend to cause jaw damage. Ideally, when you eat meats, choose boneless options or cut the meat down before you eat. For example, do not bite meat directly off a chicken leg. Pull the meat off and use a fork to inspect the area for bones.

As you fall into your diet routine, your bone check routine will help prevent any problems. If a tooth does crack, a dentist may need to perform a root canal or other procedure to heal the crack and prevent gum prevention.

2. Coffee & Tea Stains

While water is the recommended drink for many diets, the Keto diet extends drink options to unsweetened coffee and tea. If you increase your consumption of coffee or tea, be aware of any staining the drinks may cause. Over time, coffee and tea breaks down the enamel on teeth and creates visible stains.

A dental treatment may include a clean and polish along with teeth whitening treatments. Teeth whitening will help return your teeth to their natural state.

3. Raw Vegetables & Flossing

Many types of raw vegetables are an acceptable part of a Keto diet and an ideal snack option. When you eat vegetables like broccoli or celery, be aware of small pieces stuck in the teeth. When pieces stay in the teeth, bacteria presence may grow and result in damage.

Floss and mouthwash help remove the smaller particles between the teeth. A dentist may point out any areas prone to stuck food and help teach you ideal flossing methods. Floss a couple times a day to remove the particles and prevent any oral health issues.

Additional dental tools like a water pick may also help keep your mouth clean.

4. Nuts, Seeds & Cracked Teeth

Along with vegetables, other approved Keto snacks include nuts and seeds. The snacks fit into the diet, but may present dental issues. For example, a person may have seeds or nuts stuck in their teeth, and the hardness of a nut could cause a tooth to chip or crack when you bite down.

A dentist may repair a chipped tooth multiple ways. A bonding procedure will repair the chipped part of the tooth and return the tooth to its original shape. A filling could also be used to fill in the chip or crack.

For larger chips, a crown could cover the whole tooth. In some cases, the whole tooth may be pulled and replaced with a dental implant. The implant shape and size will match your original tooth so the smile blends in.

For any questions or concerns about your diet change and oral health, contact our professionals at Desert Dental . We can schedule a full oral examination and give you tips to help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

4 TYPES OF TOOTH PAIN

Sun, 01 Mar 2020 21:41:00 GMT

Tooth pain is common, but many types of pain exist, such as sharp, sudden pain and dull, consistent aches. This makes it hard to determine if your oral pain is just a symptom of your stress or tooth decay. If you would like to better protect your teeth, check out these four types of tooth pain and what they may mean for your oral health.

1. Sensitivity

Many people suffer from sensitive teeth. When your teeth are overly sensitive, you may notice pain when hot or cold food comes in contact with your teeth. Sensitivity can also cause pain if the teeth are exposed to cold air or sugar. Sensitivity can be from a cavity, but it is often from thinning enamel.

As the enamel wears, the tooth nerves become more sensitive to external forces. To treat sensitive teeth, you should avoid foods high in acid and/or sugar, and use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth. In severe cases of enamel erosion, you may need dental bonding, veneers, or crowns to replace the lost enamel.

2. Dull, Persistent Aches

If your pain is dull and persistent, the culprit may actually be your stress levels. People who suffer from stress or anxiety often grind their teeth at night. Grinding your teeth can cause chips and worn enamel, but it also puts a lot of pressure on the jaw. In the morning, your jaw feels tight and sore. The pain may even reach up to the temples or head.

The best way to stop this type of pain is to stop grinding your teeth, which can be harder than it sounds. You'll also need to find ways to manage your stress or anxiety to stop the grinding. In some cases, a mouth guard or split can position the mouth so you are less inclined to grind. A mouth guard will also help protect against chips and worn enamel.

3. Sharp, Inconsistent Pain

When pain turns sharp and inconsistent, you may have a cavity. Most cavities don't constantly ache; they need something to trigger the pain, such as sugar or cold temperatures. Depending on the location of the cavity, it may also hurt to chew or close your mouth. Luckily, spotting cavities is usually easy because they appear as visible holes or brown/black stains.

The only way to stop the pain of a cavity is to remove the dead tissue and replace it with a filling. If the cavity is particularly large, however, your dentist will suggest placing a crown to better strengthen the tooth and protect against sensitivity (as teeth with large fillings are often overly sensitive).

4. Throbbing, Severe Pain

If your jaw throbs with severe and constant pain, you may have a tooth infection (abscess). An abscess puts pressure on the tooth's nerves, which can cause mild to intense pain. If left untreated, the infection can destroy the entire tooth and/or spread to other parts of the body, especially if the infection is near the lymph nodes of the throat.

The infection may cause visible swelling and pus. The pus will also smell foul and leave a bitter taste in your mouth. Treating a tooth infection involves fully eliminating the infection and the tooth's pulp. This is done via extraction (total removal of the tooth) or root canal treatment (replacement of the tooth's pulp to prevent extraction).

Any type of tooth pain requires some level of attention. Ideally, you may be able to stop your pain by controlling your stress, but severe pain may indicate a more serious complication, such as an abscess. If you would like to know more about oral health, contact us at Desert Dental today.

YOU'VE STARTED GRINDING YOUR TEETH? INSPECT THESE AREAS OF YOUR LIFE

Sun, 19 Jan 2020 21:51:00 GMT

Whether you or a family member were the first to notice, or whether your dentist told you that your teeth show signs of wear, grinding your teeth at night can be a very damaging habit.

That's why dentists recommend night guards to protect your teeth from nighttime tooth grinding (also known as bruxism). But your dentist will likely want to get to the bottom of why you've started grinding your teeth as well, so that you can eliminate the precipitating factor and hopefully get over the grinding once and for all.

Here are some areas of your life to inspect for possible causes or factors in your teeth grinding habit.

1. Day-to-Day Stressors

Excess stress in your life can lead to daytime jaw clenching and nighttime tooth grinding. Both can be damaging to your jaw, teeth, and gums. If you have any stressors in your day-to-day life that you could cut out (such as by decluttering, hiring a house cleaner, delegating tasks at work, or finding a lower-pressure job), consider de-stressing this way.

You may also want to add de-stressing time to your day by indulging in a hobby. Or take on a mindfulness habit or anti-stress practice, such as yoga, to help you unwind before bed.

2. Exercise Routine

Did you know some types of exercise can cause tension in the neck and jaw in some cases? This tension could worsen your teeth grinding problem. For instance, if you're trying to do a lot of crunches without working up to it, you may place too much strain on your neck.

Make sure you get exercise on a regular basis, but try not to overdo it. And be sure to check in throughout the workout to make sure you're not clenching your jaw or feeling pain or tension in your neck, shoulders, and jaw region.

3. Jaw Use Habits

In some cases, you could already be grinding your teeth mildly without noticeable symptoms. But small amounts of damage over time, or precipitating or worsening factors, could eventually cause symptoms to develop. One such worsening factor is jaw tension and clenching. So check to see if you have any bad habits during the day that involve jaw use.

For instance, if you chew on pencils, bite your nails, or even chew gum all day long, take note. Your jaw may be stressed, may get into the habit of clenching regularly, and may have a hard time relaxing at night.

4. Your Bite Structure

How your teeth fit together, called your bite, is an important factor in dental health. If your teeth don't fit together evenly, some teeth may wear down faster than others. This issue may also trigger nighttime grinding.

Have your dentist check for irregular wear on your teeth. And keep in mind you may need orthodontics to adjust your bite.

5. Mental Health Situation

In some cases, simply de-stressing your work life and relationships won't make your stress go away. If you have a mental illness involving increased anxiety (such as an anxiety syndrome), that could cause your mental distress.

You may need to address your mental health not only for its own sake but also to avoid negative repercussions, such as continued or worsened teeth grinding.

If you examine these areas of your life, you might identify any habits or activities that cause or worsen your bruxism. Don't forget to talk to your doctor about the issue as well as your dentist. Some physical health issues, such as sleep apnea, can also cause grinding.

If you suspect you may need treatment for tooth grinding, contact Desert Dental today for an appointment.

AN OVERVIEW OF DRY SOCKET

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 21:55:00 GMT

Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, and tooth decay, and extracting the wisdom teeth is often the only option. Unfortunately, removing impacted wisdom teeth poses a risk of a condition known as dry socket. Here is an overview of the symptoms of dry socket, the preventative measures you should take to reduce your risk, and the options for treatment.

Dry Socket Symptoms

When a tooth is removed, your body will form a blood clot in the socket where the tooth was. The blood clot is meant to stop bleeding and protect the socket from bacteria in your mouth. However, in about 2% of tooth extractions and 20% of impacted wisdom tooth extractions, the blood clot never forms or becomes dislodged after it has formed, leading to dry socket.

Dry socket is often accompanied by bad breath, a bad taste in your mouth, and pain that radiates from the affected site to surrounding tissues in the neck, face, and ear. Because the nerves in the gums and jaw bone are exposed to bacteria, infection and fever are also possible symptoms. You may be able to see exposed bone in the dry socket that would otherwise be hidden by a blood clot.

Dry Socket Prevention

Properly caring for the wound is the most important thing you can do to reduce your risk of dry socket after wisdom tooth extraction. Be sure to take any anti-inflammatory medication you are prescribed on schedule, and follow any specific instructions for care your dentist gives you. You should also avoid touching the socket with your fingers or tongue, as this can tear away the blood clot.

Some normal behaviors can place enough force on the blood clot in the socket to dislodge it. Drinking from a straw should be avoided because of the suction force it creates inside your mouth. The same principle applies to smoking, and tobacco smoke itself also slows healing and increases the chance of infection. Be sure to brush and rinse carefully until the wound has healed.

Dry Socket Treatment

You should contact your dentist as soon as possible if you suspect you are suffering from dry socket. The most common time that people notice this is when pain is still present three or more days after the wisdom tooth extraction. If the socket has properly healed, pain will begin to subside around this time, while pain from dry socket will begin to get more severe.

Treating dry socket consists primarily of three factors: managing pain, cleaning the dental socket, and creating a barrier against bleeding and infection. When you visit your dentist for dry socket treatment, they will first clean the socket with an antibacterial rinse. A medicated dressing is then placed in the socket to protect it and alleviate pain.

In most cases, several trips to the dentist will be required to reapply the dressing until the socket begins clotting and healing properly again on its own. You will need to continue taking medication for pain and inflammation, and your dentist may instruct you to rinse the socket regularly with warm water. This process will usually allow the socket to begin to clot and heal again within a week.

While dry socket can be painful and must be treated promptly, the risk of this condition is small, and the pain and infection risk of impacted wisdom teeth is much greater. Following your dentist's instructions and avoiding behaviors that promote dry socket will give you an excellent chance of a recovery free from complications.

Visit us at Desert Dental if you are suffering from impacted wisdom teeth so we can help you take the first steps toward better oral health!

2 DENTAL OPTIONS THAT HELP LESSEN ANXIETY

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 22:14:00 GMT

If you experience dental anxiety, you're not alone. Millions of Americans worry about dental visits because they're embarrassed by the condition of their teeth or they associate the dentist chair with pain and discomfort.

Fortunately, modern dentistry offers dental options designed to better help you relax while you're in the chair and even make some procedures seem less traumatic or invasive. When deep-breathing techniques aren't quite enough, consider these two dental options that help lessen anxiety at the dentist.

1. Laser Dentistry

Dental patients usually associate lasers with other medical procedures. However, many dentists use this intensely focused beam of light in place of traditional dental instruments to perform many common treatments. Absence of intimidating dental tools that emit sounds as they operate often makes dental patients feel more comfortable about dental visits.

Laser dentistry offers more than just a quieter, gentler experience. Dental lasers promote faster healing times, produce less bleeding and swelling, and are often completely painless. Even better, lasers are more versatile than you think. Lasers deftly sculpt, alter, or remove soft tissue for:

Infected root canals
Gum disease
Inflamed gums
Gum reshaping
Impacted wisdom teeth exposure
Biopsies
Sleep apnea

Lasers calibrated for hard tissue can do even more for dental patients like detect cavities, help with tooth sensitivity, and prepare teeth for fillings.

2. Sedation Dentistry

Unfortunately, lasers are not suitable for every dental procedure. They cannot fill very large cavities or reach those between teeth or work around existing fillings. Traditional instruments work better to shape and polish fillings, prepare for bridges, and adjust your bite. When laser dentistry is not an option, say yes to sedation dentistry.

Sedation dentistry is helpful when you are anxious or nervous about pain and sitting in a chair for long periods with an open mouth is beyond uncomfortable. Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you relax, but this is much more than a numbing gel and local anesthetic combination for pain management. Different levels of sedation are possible, and your anxiety level determines which one is best for you.

Minimal Sedation

Nitrous oxide gas is the most commonly used minimal sedation medication, which you breathe through your nose via a tube and mask. When used along with local anesthetics, nitrous oxide allows your body to relax yet remain pain-free and conscious while time seems to pass quickly.

The gas is safe due to its ease of reversal and mild effects on the nervous system. Your dentist regulates the flow of gas, which quickly wears off when your procedure is finished and you need to go home.

Oral Sedation

A pill such as Halcion is taken orally about an hour before your visit to produce mild sedation but can be increased to make you even sleepier. Patients with more anxiety than usual want sedation like this that might make them fall asleep in the dental chair but easily wake up when the procedure is over.

General Anesthesia

You can request the deepest level of dental sedation if you have extreme phobia of dental procedures or are about to undergo extensive dental work. You remain asleep throughout the procedure and only wake up once the medication either wears off or is medically reversed. Your dentist monitors your heart rate and blood pressure as general anesthesia carries certain risks.

Visits to your dentist can be a positive experience when your oral health benefits from regular dental care. You don't need to worry about anxiety and fear when you have helpful options like laser dentistry and sedation dentistry. Visit the caring staff at Desert Dental, and ask how Kamran Ruintan D.M.D., F.A.G.D, can make your next visit as comfortable as possible.

ORAL PIERCINGS AND YOUR DENTAL CARE

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 22:19:00 GMT

Do you want to get an oral piercing? These popular facial piercings may require special care — especially when it comes to dental hygiene. If oral jewelry is on your agenda, take a look at what you need to know about maintaining a healthy mouth.

Follow Post-Piecing Directions

Discomfort or swelling is common to have immediately after piercing the lips, tongue, or other part of the mouth. Along with possible pain, your post-piercing mouth is also at increased risk for an oral infection. This makes proper post-piercing care an important first step to your healthy mouth success.

Before the piercing appointment talk to your dentist about how you should care for your teeth, gums, tongue, and the interior of your mouth and cheeks. Even though the piercing professional will provide you with post-care instructions, the dentist can add extra directions or suggest dental care products to use.

Clean the Area Correctly

Part of the post-care directions will include how to clean the pierced area. This can help you reduce the risk of infection. Even though it's important to correctly clean the piercing when it's new, you can't stop the care when the area heals. Failure to properly clean and care for the piercing can result in an unnecessary oral infection.

An alcohol-free mouthwash can help to keep the area clean and decrease potentially harmful bacteria immediately after the piercing. Alcohol-containing washes can stop the spread of infection but may irritate the area or slow healing down. Continue to use alcohol-free mouthwash daily for the duration of the piercing or indefinitely as part of your healthy mouth routine.

Along with an oral rinse, brush your teeth as you regularly would. Depending on the piercing site, you may find a manual toothbrush easier to use. A bulky electric toothbrush may bump into the piercing. Brush your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes with a fluoride-containing toothpaste product. This can reduce the likelihood of dental decay and related oral issues.

After the oral piercing area heals, gently brush or clean the jewelry inside of your mouth. Plaque can build up on interior oral jewelry. This, like other plaque formation, can result in cavities or infection.

Avoid debris-related decay by brushing after meals too. Food particles trapped around oral jewelry can increase the risk of infection or dental decay. Plan ahead and bring a brush with you or swish with water after meals and snacks.

Take Care of Your Gums

A piercing shouldn’t get in the way of flossing or brushing properly. Gum care is always important — whether you have an oral piercing or not. Floss daily and after meals as needed. You may need to adjust your flossing process to accommodate oral jewelry inside of your mouth. Even though it may seem awkward at first, it's still possible to maintain proper flossing practices.

Visit the Dentist Regularly

You’re like not the first patient the dentist has seen with oral jewelry — given the popularity of piercings. If you have concerns about an in-office cleaning or exam, talk to the dentist before your appointment. Alert the office staff of your new oral addition and ask any questions you have.

Regular in-office dental care can help to keep your mouth healthy and prevent potential future problems. The hygienist can provide a deep clean and suggest ways to maintain oral hygiene with your new piercing. The dentist can inspect the area for signs of infection and, if needed, provide treatment for possible problems.

Do you have healthy-mouth questions for the dentist before your piercing appointment, or did you recently get a new oral piercing? Contact Desert Dental for more information.

3 TIPS TO GET THE MOST FROM YOUR ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 22:29:00 GMT

You should have a consistent, effective dental routine to maintain an optimal level of oral health. One change that you might make to your dental routine is to swap your manual toothbrush for an electric toothbrush. An electric toothbrush is generally more effective at removing plaque and decreasing symptoms associated with gingivitis, especially when used correctly.

Since an electric toothbrush does most of the work when you brush your teeth, it also helps individuals with limited mobility maintain their dental health. Use your electric toothbrush correctly; otherwise, it's no more effective than a manual toothbrush. Follow these tips to get the most dental benefits from your electric toothbrush.

1. Revamp Your Brushing Technique With an Electric Toothbrush

You need to change your brushing technique when you make the switch to an electric toothbrush. Remember, your toothbrush does all the brushing motions for you. This means that you don't need to scrub your teeth like you would with a manual toothbrush.

Instead, move the head of the electric toothbrush from tooth to tooth, and check that you hit the entirety of the tooth (from the gumline to the crown). Adjust the brush as needed for the tooth's curvature. At the gumline, hold the brush at a 45-degreeangle to thoroughly clean plaque, bacteria, and food from the gums.

2. Select a Toothbrush That Meets Your Needs

With so many options for electric toothbrushes, you may wonder if it matters which kind you choose or if there's any real difference between the different options. However, the right electric toothbrush can help you improve the health of your teeth and gums.

Many models include features that make it easier for you to properly care for your teeth and gums. Certain toothbrushes boast a built-in timer so that you know when you’ve brushed your teeth for the recommended two minutes for each session. Others sound an alarm when you exert too much pressure on the surface of your teeth.

Some electric toothbrushes have different modes that you can adjust depending on your dental needs. For example, sensitive mode is found on many models and works well for patients with sensitive teeth or tender gum tissue.

Other models have a mode specifically intended to better care for your gums. While multiple modes aren't a necessity, they enable you to better customize the toothbrush to your dental needs.

When purchasing electric toothbrushes for your children, be sure to select a model with a child-sized brush head. Adult-sized brush heads may be unable to effectively clean your child's back teeth. A brush head that's too large may also make it uncomfortable for your child to brush their teeth, which may deter them from building strong oral hygiene habits.

3. Regularly Maintain Your Electric Toothbrush

Your electric toothbrush requires regular maintenance to ensure it's functioning as intended. The biggest mistake made by many patients is not replacing the brush head at regular intervals.

Much like a manual toothbrush, you need to replace your brush head approximately every three to four months. If the brush head starts to look worn down or frayed, replace it even if it hasn't been three months.

If your toothbrush uses a charger, make sure that the charger functions properly, or your toothbrush will not work. Wipe down the charging unit as needed with a dry cloth to remove any dust or water splatters. If you get toothpaste or another substance on the charger, unplug it and wipe it down with a damp cloth.

If you are overdue for a check-up or have more questions about your dental hygiene, contact Desert Dental today to make an appointment.

WHAT TOOTHPASTE SHOULD YOU USE?

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 22:40:00 GMT

What do you need to know about toothpaste? Before you buy (or buy into a dental health claim), take a look at what you need to know about this oral care essential.

Why Are There So Many Types of Toothpaste?

The grocery store or pharmacy's oral care aisle is filled with a near-dizzying array of options. This can leave you wondering where to start or which toothpaste is the right choice. But options exist for a reason. Different types of toothpaste:

Meet different dental health needs . Some patients have sensitive teeth, some have gum disease, and others want whitening. Different types of toothpaste products can meet individual needs and make it easier to improve overall oral health.
Meet different preferences . Do you prefer a strong mint flavor? While this taste may appeal to you, it isn't favored by everyone. An assortment of options caters to individual preferences.
Meet different price points . Some brands cost more than others. A variety of choices gives you options on different financial levels.

How can you make the best choice possible? Simplify the selection process by narrowing down your choices to the products that meet your needs. To better understand the specific toothpaste alternatives, read on for more information on your options.

Is Gel Better Than Paste?

Should you choose a gel product or a paste? While these two categories or oral care products may look very different, they also come with plenty of similarities. To choose between the two consider:

The ingredients . Both gels and pastes can include fluoride, whiteners, and other similar ingredients. Decide what you want in a product and then move on to the other aspects of the gel or paste.
The texture . Do you like the smooth texture of a gel? If not, you may want to go with a paste.
The taste . The texture of the product can also influence the way you perceive the taste. Again, this comes down to personal preference.

If the gel versus paste decision doesn't help you to pick a product, you still have plenty of other options to investigate — and questions to ask.

Should the Toothpaste Include Fluoride?

The simple answer to this question is yes. Fluoride is a beneficial ingredient your teeth need. This naturally occurring mineral can help prevent tooth decay. This means it may reduce the risks associated with cavity development.

What do you need to know before you buy fluoridated toothpaste? When you choose a product:

Read the label . The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates fluoridated dental products. The FDA requires manufacturers to label products containing fluoride and include it in the ingredients list.
Talk to the dentist . The dental professional may recommend a specific product or provide directions on how/when to use a fluoride toothpaste for your individual needs.
Check the age restrictions . According to the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children under age two should only use a fluoride containing toothpaste under the direction of a dentist.

Along with toothpaste, you can also get fluoride from tap water. If you aren't sure whether your teeth get the right amount of this mineral or you have concerns about dental decay, talk to your dentist about additional in-office fluoride treatments.

What Other Oral Issues Do Toothpastes Tackle?

Dental decay isn't the only reason to use toothpaste. These products can also help you to maintain a healthy mouth and:

Reduce gingivitis . Some products are specially formulated to reduce the risks of gum disease or prevent gingivitis.
Decrease sensitivity . A desensitizing toothpaste can minimize the effects of hot, cold, and other oral irritants.
Whiten teeth . While a toothpaste won't whiten to the same degree as a dentist's office procedure, it can lift surface stains.

The product you choose depends on your needs, your personal preferences, and input from the dental professional. If you have specific issues or problem areas, discuss these with the dentist at your nest visit.

Do you need a new dentist? Contact Desert Dental for more information.

3 SPORTS TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR ORAL HEALTH

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 22:53:00 GMT

Sports are fun and provide valuable exercise, but they can also be damaging to your body, including your oral health. There are many tips you can follow, however, that will better protect your teeth while you are having fun. If you want to know more about protecting your oral health, keep reading.

1. Use a Mouth Guard

Many sports are high-impact, such as football and rugby. Imagine getting tackled by someone and hitting your face against the ground. Without a mouth guard, there are many problems that can arise. At the very least, you may cut the inside of your mouth against your teeth. However, in more severe cases, teeth can actually completely shatter or get knocked out of your mouth.

In other cases, the tooth may get pushed down or up into the tooth socket. On the other hand, some teeth may be partially knocked out of the socket. In either case, don't touch the tooth. Use over-the-counter pain medications and ice to reduce the pain until you can see your dentist. Trying to fix the tooth yourself will only worsen the situation.

Some sports may require more than a mouth guard, such as football, which also requires a helmet with a faceguard to better protect your mouth against the force of another person or the ground. Always make sure you are using the right equipment for the activity.

2. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is always important for your overall health, but if you are partaking in sports, especially those that require a lot of energy (or the weather is warm), you may need more water than average to keep your body hydrated.

Severe dehydration can lead to major and life-threating conditions, such as heat injury, kidney problems, seizures and low blood volume shock. However, even mild dehydration can negatively impact your oral health. In particular, being dehydrated reduces the amount of saliva your body naturally produces.

Without this saliva to naturally remove plaque, your risk of decay and gum irritation increases. For this reason, if you have any other condition that is causing dehydration, such as diarrhea, it may be best to avoid the sports and stay inside until you're feeling better.

3. Avoid Sugary Drinks

One way to stay hydrated is to drink water, but is water enough? There are many sports drinks that promise to hydrate you better than water, and in some cases, they actually do. This is because they contain sodium and vitamins, which you lose when you sweat. This better helps reduce your risk of becoming dehydrated.

The sports drinks also often contain protein, so you can get some long-lasting energy without having to eat and digest food. Eating food in the middle of playing sports can lead to cramps or nausea.. The sports drinks also have lots of carbohydrates, which provide instant energy. Of course, many sports drinks contain lots of sugar to make them more palatable. Unfortunately, this can lead to decay.

When possible, choose sugar-free sports drinks. If you don't have sugar-free options, switching between sports drinks and water may help wash away some of the sugar. Chewing sugar-free gum can also help, and remember to brush your teeth when you're done playing sports.

If you don't consider your teeth when you play sports, you are making a major mistake. Trauma, dry mouth and sugary sports drinks can increase the risk of decay or total tooth loss. If you would like to know more about how to better protect your teeth during sports, or if you want to ask about a customized mouth guard, contact us at Desert Dental: Ruintan Kamran DMD today.

PREVENT AND TREAT GUM DISEASE | DESERT DENTAL

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 06:30:00 GMT

HOW TO PREVENT AND TREAT GUM DISEASE

If, like many Americans, you have gum disease, you may be worried about how it will affect your teeth. Gum disease begins as gingivitis, which may only cause mild irritation or bleeding when brushing. However, if you fail to seek treatment and continue to neglect your teeth, gingivitis can turn into periodontitis, which causes more severe symptoms, including gum recession and bone loss.

Check out these ways you can prevent and/or treat gum disease.

Good Oral Hygiene Is the Best Prevention

Gum disease is common, but it is completely preventable with good oral hygiene, such as regular brushing and flossing. Good oral hygiene is also the first step in treating gum disease because it will help fight the infection.

Remember to get regular professional dental cleanings to remove any tartar. Ideally, you should also avoid sugary or acidic foods and beverages.

If you have diabetes, get your symptoms under control because diabetes can cause and worsen gum disease by restricting blood flow to the gums. Not only does this make it more likely for your gums to become infected, but it may prevent your body from fighting the infection (even with good oral hygiene).

Smoking can also restrict blood flow to the gums, so if you are a smoker or use tobacco products, you should stop.

Antibiotics Help Fight the Infection

Dentists often prescribe antibiotics if you have gingivitis or periodontitis because antibiotics kill bacteria, which cause the infection.

If you have gingivitis, your dentist may suggest an antibiotic mouth rinse. If your gingivitis is advancing, you may begin to notice gaps (pockets) forming between the teeth and gums, and these pockets collect and hide bacteria and plaque, so your dentist may apply antibiotics directly to the gums or in the pockets.

If you have periodontitis, your dentist may prefer to use sustained-release antibiotics in the pockets. These release medication slowly, fighting the infection longer. Oral antibiotics may also be recommended if your gums are severely infected.

Scaling and Root Planing Clean Below the Gum Line

If you do have pockets, you need a deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. During this process, the dentist removes tartar and plaque from inside the pockets and below the gum line (scaling). Once the teeth are clean, the dentist smooths the area (root planing), which makes it harder for future plaque to get stuck.

This process can cause bleeding and discomfort, especially if your gums are sensitive from the infection. If you're worried or anxious about pain or the treatment, talk with your dentist about how to control the pain with a local anesthetic, sedation dentistry, etc.

Surgery May Be Necessary to Reverse Symptoms

Many symptoms of gingivitis are reversible, including small pockets; however, once you have periodontitis, surgical treatments may be needed to reverse the symptoms.

To treat large pockets quickly, the dentist may perform a gum flap surgery. During the procedure, the dentist removes the gum tissue to expose the roots of your teeth. They are cleaned and smoothed, and the gums are reattached, eliminating the pockets.

As gum disease advances, it causes tissue loss, including gum and bone loss. If you have thin gums, they expose teeth roots, but a gum graft uses tissue from the roof of your mouth to add to your gums. A bone graft is necessary if your jawbone has deteriorated from the infection. This graft re-strengthens your jaw, so it can better support teeth.

In the beginning, gum disease may be a mild annoyance, but as it advances, it can quickly ruin your smile, exposing tooth roots and causing tooth loss. Luckily, gum disease is preventable, and many treatments are available to reverse the side effects. For more information about gum disease and treatment options, contact us at Desert Dental today.

ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOU?

Thu, 22 Nov 2018 06:40:00 GMT

Everyone deserves a beautiful smile, but missing teeth can drastically affect the aesthetics and functionality of your teeth. You may have difficulty eating or talking, or you may feel less confident about your appearance. If this is the case, dental implants from Desert Dental may be the right choice for you.

What Is the Biggest Benefit of Dental Implants?

The main reason to choose dental implants is because they are the most durable way to replace missing teeth. Like natural teeth, they use the jawbone for support, instead of healthy teeth (like dental bridges). This feature makes the implant more durable,and it prevents healthy teeth from taking the extra wear and tear, which is unavoidable with dental bridges.

Dental implants are also more durable because the titanium used fuses to the jawbone.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

Dental implants are expensive, but they are an investment in your smile because they last along time. On average, you'll spend at least $2,400 for a single dental implant, but that does not include any extra procedures, which may be necessary, such as an extraction. Dental insurance does cover the cost of dental implants, but they may cover only some of the additional necessary procedures.

How Long Is Treatment?

If you do choose dental implants, expect along treatment time because the process can take months until the implant is ready.

First, if your jawbone is weakened from many missing teeth, it may not be strong enough to support an implant, so a bone graft may be needed. When the jawbone is strong enough, the titanium artificial root can be placed,and it may take up to six months for this area to heal enough for the crown to be placed.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

You need a healthy mouth to get a dental implant, including a strong jawbone, which may require a bone graft. Unfortunately, many people have missing teeth and weak jawbones due to gum disease. If your gum disease is untreated,a dental implant is not recommended because gum disease increases the risk of implant failure. You are not a good candidate if you:

Are a smoker
Are pregnant
Have a chronic disease, such as uncontrolled diabetes
Abuse Alcohol or drugs

Individuals with a healthy mouth, including healthy teeth, jawbone,and gums,are generally great candidates for implants.

How Many Teeth Can Be Replaced?

Dental implants area great choice if you are missing a single tooth, but they are also great if you are missing all your teeth. However, if you are missing multiple teeth, implant-supported bridges and implant-supported dentures may be a better choice.

Because the artificial teeth are connected, implant-supported bridges and implant-supported dentures can replace many missing teeth with fewer titanium posts, which saves you money. Single implants and implant-supported bridges are not removable, but implant-supported dentures can be removed for easy cleaning.

How Do You Care for Your Implant?

You care for your implant the same way you'd care for natural teeth: by keeping it healthy. Try to avoid grinding your teeth, which can put extra stress on the implant. You'll also want to keep your mouth clean by continuing to brush and floss like usual.

Even if you replace all your teeth with dental implants, you must keep your gums clean from plaque, tartar,and bacteria to reduce the risk of per implant disease, which if left untreated, increases the risk of implant failure.

With dental implants from Desert Dental, you don't have to struggle with missing teeth anymore. If you have healthy gums and want a durable way to replace missing teeth, dental implant scan give you the beautiful smile you've always wanted. For more information, or to learn about possible financing options,call our office or send a quick message so we can schedule your appointment.