Dental Services Archives

Follow These Tips for a Great Back-to-School Dental Checkup

Posted on August 25, 2021 - 11:38 AM by admin

The back-to-school season is fraught with excitement and anxiety. Children and parents go through a flurry of emotions, and it is easy for them to lose sight of vital practices like booking a dental checkup.

We get it. So, let’s offer some advice on why and how you should go about preparing your kid for a back-to-school dental checkup in Palo Alto.

Why visiting a pediatric dentist before school begins is crucial.

Your kids may be ready for the looming school year in terms of clothes, school supplies, and sports equipment; however, do they have a healthy mouth or things needed to maintain it?

Scheduling a back-to-school dental checkup and cleaning in Palo Alto is vital for the following reasons:

Dental problems are one of the biggest reasons kids miss school, eventually leading to decreased academic performance. Therefore, scheduling a back-to-school checkup is essential in fighting cavities (the most common chronic disease found in school-going kids) and preventing school absences.
The best pediatric dentists in Palo Alto are able to detect problems early. Early detection helps avert pain and gum infections. It also means less costly treatments.
It can prevent tooth damage, loss, and other dental emergencies. Usually, dental injures are one of the major causes of tooth loss and damage. Your Palo Alto dentist can provide a personalized sports mouthguard that will offer greater protection for your kid’s pearly whites.
Poor dental health can affect your kid’s overall health. There is always a direct correlation between oral infection, obesity, and asthma. Thus, booking a back-to-school dental checkup is important for your little one’s well-being.
Some schools require a pediatric dentist’s signature verifying your kid has a clean bill of oral health.

Back-to-school dental checkup tips you should follow.

As mentioned above, early detection and prevention have always been the secret to avoiding dental problems. Therefore, as a parent, you have to strive for a great back-to-school dental checkup for your kid. Here are tips to achieve that:

Plan for dental checkups early enough

To have a seamless back-to-school dental checkup and cleaning in Palo Alto, ensure you plan early enough. Well, there is so much that goes on during the summer – camping, vacations, visiting friends and family, to name a few. But, always plan dental appointments in advance to avoid the last-minute rush.

Unfortunately, many parents visit dental offices a week before school opening. As a result, kids end up frustrated by the long queues and endless commotion. Some even miss the chance of seeing the dentist as this is usually one of the busiest seasons for the dental industry. You wouldn’t want that to happen to your kid, would you?

Teach your children to observe good dental habits

Whenever a pediatric dentist declares your kids free from dental issues, encourage them to do better. Remind them to brush and floss at least twice a day.

You can set a timer or download phone applications that encourage your kids to take oral health seriously. Some apps come with motivational tips and music that really help kids get into a great habit. For instance, Brush DJ is one such app and is freely available on iTunes.

Book your kid’s dental appointment at the right time of the day.

Pick a day where your kid is fully rested. You can choose morning appointments because this is the time your kid is most active. That said, try as much as possible not to disrupt your kid’s daily schedule.

For instance, do not book a dental consultation during their sleeping hours. Also, don’t book an appointment when they had a long, tedious day. Scheduling an appointment at the wrong time can make your kid grumpy.

Even important, ensure your kid is well fed on the appointment day. A hungry kid can be moody throughout the appointment. Thus, grab your child a snack at least an hour before the meeting. But avoid sugary snacks and remember to have them brush before seeing the dentist.

Keep calm and cheer your child on

Encourage your kid throughout the appointment so that they don’t become panicky. Don’t be nervous as your kid might notice and follow suit. Also, let your child ask the dentist any question they have concerning the appointment. Dentists know how to handle tense situations whenever they sense the kid is nervous.

Ask about sealants

While sealants are not a substitute for teeth brushing and flossing, they can be an ideal way to keep your kid from getting cavities. Administering sealants only take a few minutes and is totally a painless procedure. Besides, most insurance plans cover sealants at 100%!

In summary, there are various ways to ensure a successful back-to-school dental checkup and cleaning in Palo Alto. Taking specific measures in advance goes a long way in improving your kid’s dental health. Some of them, as you might have realized, include observing healthy oral practices. It is also advisable to take the contact details of your pediatric dentist. In the event of specific emergencies, the sports coaches and teachers will know who to call.

Article resources:
Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:
https://www.health.ny.gov/
https://www.cdc.gov/
https://www.ada.org/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

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Myths and Facts About the Dental Implant Recovery Process

Posted on July 29, 2021 - 7:20 AM by admin

Do you have missing or badly diseased teeth? Is it hurting your confidence? Well, getting a dental implant is a great option for replacing missing or damaged teeth. But do you know about the recovery process and the myths associated? Well, we are here to help.

What are Dental Implants?

One of the most comfortable and stable restorative options for missing teeth, implants come closest to your natural teeth, in terms of functionality and appearance.

Dental implants surgery is typically a multi-stage procedure that consists of the following steps:

Consultation – Your dentist will schedule a consultation with you to go over your requirements, your dental health, treatment plan, financial details, and what to expect during the treatment. At this point, your dentist may take teeth & jaw impressions and send a prescription for the crown and/or bridge making to a dental laboratory, based on your need.

Extraction & Grafting – If your teeth are diseased, you will need to have them extracted before the implant can be inserted. Additionally, if your jawbone is not healthy enough for the implant to adhere to, you may need bone grafting to create an adequate bone foundation for successful dental implant surgery. Remember not everybody needs extraction and grafting but if you do, the recovery process and the dental implants timeline maybe longer.

Generally speaking, if you need a bone graft, you may require several months between the grafting and the implant surgery. Depending on the complexity of work, recovery from extractions and bone graft procedures can take several days to several weeks. Follow the instructions provided by your dentist to ensure a quick recovery.

Dental Implants Surgery – The next step in the process is the installation of a dental implant anchor, made of titanium or other suitable metal, into the jawbone below the gumline.

The gum tissues are then secured over the implant and the implant is left to fuse with the jawbone – a process known as osseointegration. During this process, there may be some swelling and tenderness for a few days. Your dentist may prescribe pain medication, cold compresses, and a diet restricted to soft & cold foods to help you with the recovery process – more information on the implant surgery recovery process can be found below.

Placement of the Abutment – The next step involves the addition of an abutment, which is a post that connects the implants inserted in Step 1 to the replacement tooth (Step 3). After this procedure, the gum is allowed to heal. In case you choose a removable denture for aesthetic purposes, it can be placed over the gap caused by the missing tooth, until a permanent tooth is attached to the implant.

Placement of the Crown – Once the healing is complete, the third and final step involves the placement of the dental crown on the artificial post. This completes the dental implant procedure.

Dental Implants Recovery Process

Total recovery after a dental implant procedure varies from case to case. The recovery time could depend on factors such as the number of teeth involved, requirement for grafting, gum health, and patient history.

Generally speaking, single-tooth implant patients with healthy bones will experience minimal discomfort and will recover in no time. The more complex your procedure – the more the number of teeth extracted and implanted as well as the need for bone grafting to allow for implants – the longer the recovery.

Based on the complexity of the case, patients may experience swelling and even some discomfort post-surgery. However, they go away with proper care.

Whether your dental implant procedure was completed in one stage or multiple stages, the first 24 hours after dental surgery, you may experience swelling, bleeding, and some pain. Over-the-counter and prescription-strength medication may be used to effectively control the pain. Cold compresses and ice packs can help with the swelling.

After the initial 24 hours have passed, you can continue to take pain medication and ice packs the next few days, as needed.

One of the most important parts of the post-surgery recovery process is the diet. Patients are advised to opt for a soft diet immediately after the surgery. In case of basic dental implant placements, the patient may take from a week to 10 days to return to a normal diet. However, in some complicated cases, the patients are advised to stick to a soft diet for about six weeks after the procedure.

In addition, make sure you follow up with your dentist to ensure that you are healing properly.

While the recovery is generally smooth, there are several myths associated and this article will debunk them for you.

Myth 1: You won’t be able to brush your teeth for a week after a dental implant surgery

This is not true.

Fact: While it is very important that you avoid brushing the surgical site for the first 48 hours following the dental implant procedure, you should brush other teeth not involved in the surgery gently the same evening. You should be very careful and maintain good oral hygiene while recovering. This will involve rinsing regularly with a warm, salt water rinse, about four to five times a day, after meals.

Tip: The first 24 hours are very critical. Be careful to rinse with a warm saltwater solution and use a prescribed oral rinse. Take prescribed medications as directed.

Myth 2: You can get new teeth in a day and get back to routine right after

There’s a lot of overzealous advertising that makes people believe that they could get implants in a single session and they can get back to a normal routine right after.

Fact: In some instances, dental implants can be placed in a single sitting. Dentists can extract, implant, and place a temporary replacement tooth in the same setting. Advances in technology allow for the implants to be placed in such a way that they do not move at all during the healing process. This is absolutely critical for the implant procedure to be successful as the implant must integrate with the bone and even the slightest shift can lead to complications.

Same-day implant patients are strongly advised to comply with dietary recommendations for up to six weeks after surgery to avoid the movement of implants that can result in treatment failure.

Tip: If you are opting for same-day implants, eat soft foods and avoid crunchy and chewy foods, such as crusty bread, apples, ice cubes, carrots, steaks, and other chewy meats, during the osseointegration process.

Myth 3: Dental Implants recovery period is really long & painful

While the process of the implant fusing with the jawbone takes two to six months, the recovery period may last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, based on the complexity of your case.

Fact: Multiple extractions and implantations along with bone grafting extend the recovery period. However, single tooth implants with no bone grafting can cut the recovery period to only a few days. Same-day implants, as stated above, can also extend the period of dietary restrictions.

As far as pain is concerned, technological advancements have made dental implants surgery into a minimally invasive procedure. Your Palo Alto dentist will perform the surgery under local anesthesia and provide you with pain medications to help you tide over the recovery process. In fact, most patients report that implant surgery is less painful than tooth extractions.

Tip: Follow post-surgery instructions from your dentist to expedite the recovery process. In particular, take your prescribed medications, follow dietary restrictions, watch out for any symptoms of infection, such as fever, and follow up with your dentist to ensure you are recovering as expected.

Conclusion

While we have debunked some common dental implants recovery myths for you, several assumptions and myths abound, especially those related to implant costs, success rate, and risks. So if you’re thinking about implants, keep in mind to associate with the best! Ask as many questions as you have, and get your doubts cleared, and don’t fall for assumptions.

Article resources:
Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:
https://www.ada.org/
https://www.healthline.com/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/
https://www.mouthhealthy.org
https://www.cdc.gov/

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5 Summer Dental Tips for Kids

Posted on July 2, 2021 - 9:49 AM by admin

The best summer break should not require a visit to a Palo Alto pediatric dentist, all in the name of getting some fillings! And the best way to prevent an emergency visit to the dentist is to take simple steps to take care of your child’s teeth during summer. Summer oral routine can be especially challenging as changes in daily diets and lack of routine can have a negative impact on your children’s teeth. It is easy to see how.

Sleeping in longer hours and forgetting to brush, combined with sugary drinks or sodas throughout the hot days, vacation car trips with sugary snacks or hard candy, popcorn kernels, or ice can all damage oral health. And don’t overlook the dental emergencies that might arise if your children hurt their teeth during contact sports or other summer activities.

But summer oral care does not have to be demanding. Follow our dental tips below to keep your kid’s smile shining all summer long!

Schedule your kid’s dental check-up early enough

Visit a pediatric dentist at the start of every summer. Evidently, there is no better occasion to set up one of those bi-annual dental appointments than summer, when your children are out of school and your schedule is more flexible.

Most parents wait until summer ends to schedule these appointments. Chances are they find dental offices fully booked at this time or end up being overwhelmed by the back-to-school mad rush. As such, it is advisable to plan your child’s trip to the dentist as soon as the summer begins and avoid being caught up in an unnecessary last-minute rush.

Stay on schedule

Summer vacation can disrupt bedtime routines. Regardless of how action-packed your summer gets, it’s vital to ensure your children continue to practice good oral hygiene.

Resist the temptation to allow your children to skip brushing and flossing before bedtime. Also, constantly supervise them to ensure they are brushing twice every day, for at least two minutes with dentist-recommended toothpaste. The American Dental Association (ADA) advises parents to use brushing calendars to be on top of their children’s brushing habits during summer.

Besides, it is an opportunity to spend more time with them. Brushing alongside your kids for two minutes twice a day for at least three months gives you a total of six extra hours together; thus, make the most of them!

Prepare well for sleepovers

No summer break is complete without sleepovers. Sadly, amidst all the pillow throwing and fun, your children could “forget” their brushing habits. Make sure that you pack toothpaste and toothbrushes along with their pajamas and sleeping bags. Furthermore, you can also make it a habit of calling in to ensure that your kid brushes.

It might appear ridiculous to place such emphasis on brushing. But, better brush now than plan emergency visits to a pediatric dentist later, right? Being vigilant will teach your children the significance of dental care throughout their lifetime.

Buy healthy summer beverages and snacks.

Having your children home all day means endless snacking opportunities. It is easy to flood the refrigerator with candy, chips, fruit juices, raisins, cakes, and bread. However, these foods can easily dent your kids’ teeth.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cavities (also known as tooth decay or caries) are among the most common chronic illnesses that affect kids in the U.S. Here is how cavities affects children based on their age groups:

Ages 5-11: The prevalence of untreated cavities in kids aged 5-11 years is 20%.
Ages 12-19: The prevalence of untreated cavities in adolescents aged 12-19 is 13%.

As a general tip, avoid acidic, sugary, or starchy food items. Say no to gummy candies. Such snacks stick on your kid’s teeth, invite bacteria, and cause potential tooth decay.

Alternatively, stock your pantry with fresh vegetables and fruits, and make healthy eating seem like a cool thing. Even more important, make plenty of clean drinking water available. When sending your children off to play, trade in the pricey sports drinks for cool, refreshing water.

Prevent dental emergencies

For children, most dental emergencies come about in the summer. Extended time playing outside means more adventures. And while those can be fun, children sometimes hurt their teeth when riding bikes, playing outdoor sports, or enjoying other daring activities.

If your kid has a dental emergency, ensure you take them to a Palo Alto pediatric dentist near you to treat the injury. Most importantly, always encourage your children to wear helmets and mouthguards when riding skateboards, bikes, or roller skates.

Summing it up

No matter the season you are in, early dental care is important. Creating and strictly following a dental health care routine is vital for both your kid’s short and long-term health. Observing simple tips like brushing twice a day, snacking healthy, and regularly visiting a pediatric dentist are helpful in protecting your kids’ teeth all summer and beyond.

Article resources:
Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:
https://www.ada.org/
https://www.healthline.com/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/
https://www.mouthhealthy.org
https://www.cdc.gov/

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Is Professional Teeth Cleaning Really Necessary?

Posted on May 18, 2021 - 12:56 PM by admin

There is a common fallacy that flossing, rinsing with mouthwash, and brushing will suffice for dental health. The truth is an at-home oral hygiene routine can only do so much for your gums and teeth.

Professional cleaning, carried out by an experienced dentist, is crucial for oral health and aesthetic appeal. If you haven’t had any form of teeth cleaning in the past one year or six months, it is high time you scheduled a trip to a Palo Alto dental clinic near you.

Deep Teeth Cleaning Vs. Regular Cleaning: What’s the Difference?

Deep cleaning is not obligatory for every patient. Usually, it is a special kind of cleaning that focuses on getting rid of bacteria that cause gum disease. For instance, if you have gingivitis or a more severe case of gum infection, you will need deep teeth cleaning in Palo Alto.

Unlike a regular cleaning, this procedure takes two appointments. The dentist will do a partial cleaning of your mouth at each visit. But what actually happens during teeth cleaning?

First, the dentists conduct a physical exam. If they detect significant issues, they proceed to numb your mouth and then use special dental instruments to clean tartar and plaque in the gums and teeth. Additionally, the dentist will smoothen out the roots of your teeth to remove pockets of bacteria and get rid of gum disease.

Professional Dental Cleaning Is Necessary: Here Is Why.

Professional Teeth Cleaning Is Essential in Combating Gum Disease
According to a study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA), deep teeth cleanings is hugely beneficial to individuals with chronic gum disease.

Gum disease affects the tissues surrounding the teeth, causing halitosis (bad breath) and possible bone loss if left untreated. The gums progressively weaken as gum disease magnifies.

Professional teeth cleaning in Palo Alto provides you with the chance to locate gum disease early, reverse the impact, and treat the issue before it degenerates. Thus, failure to meet with your dentist for regular dental checkups and cleanings may leave your gums more vulnerable.

Professional Teeth Cleaning Is Necessary for Cavity Prevention

Plaque is one of the primary causes of cavities. Plaque slowly builds up on the teeth, leaving behind a film-like material that attacks dental enamel. Your teeth start to decay as the enamel dissipates. Usually, this decay spurs large cavities.

Professional teeth cleaning in Palo Alto is essential to get rid of plaque and clean all those confined areas in your mouth you may not be able to clean by yourself. In other words, it is the only practical way to eliminate all the cavity-causing plaque in the mouth.

Teeth Cleaning Help You Achieve a Beautiful Smile

Everyone wants a lovely smile, yet a beautiful smile cannot be achieved only with brushing, flossing, mouth rinsing, and use of over-the-counter products.

Opt for professional dental cleanings, and you will rest knowing the dentist will conduct the procedure much more safely than any DIY method. Add to the fact that professional cleaning will remove stains and buff up your teeth, so they look that much brighter and whiter.

How Often Should You Go for Dental Checkups and Cleaning in Palo Alto?‘

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends regular dental visits depending on your specific case. If you are taking care of your teeth and having regular cleanings, a deep cleaning may not be essential. An annual regular dental cleaning may be enough. However, patients with a history of periodontitis or gum disease may have to visit more often for checkups and deep cleaning.

Do Teeth Cleanings Hurt?

There are some people for whom any dental visit can cause anxiety and apprehension. However, while teeth deep cleaning may cause some discomfort, your Palo Alto dentist will use anesthesia to numb the gums during the procedure.

You really shouldn’t feel pain during teeth cleaning. And in instances where your gums may feel a bit tender after the procedure, there are ways to ease that.

Teeth Cleaning Aftercare

After cleaning, your dentist will offer instructions on how to care for your teeth. Here are some common best practices for just about every teeth cleaning situation:

Don’t eat until the numbness has subsided entirely. Ensure you can feel every sensation in your gums before eating. That way, you won’t damage your gums or disrupt the healing process.

Avoid certain food. Though your gums are healing, there are some foods you shouldn’t eat. They may include challenging-to-eat foods like large burgers and steaks, acidic foods like citrus, and foods with small pieces that may get trapped in your gums, such as popcorn and nuts.

Rinse your mouth with saltwater. Your Palo Alto dentist may advise you to rinse your mouth a few times a day with salt water. This keeps the treated part clean and helps avoid infection.

Schedule a Dental Checkup and Cleaning in Palo Alto Today

Visiting your Palo Alto dentist for checkups and cleaning at least twice a year will ensure your mouth, gum, and teeth remain healthy at all times. All the best as you plan this important and necessary visit!

Article Resources:

Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:
https://www.webmd.com/
https://www.healthline.com/
https://www.health.harvard.edu
https://www.ada.org/en
https://jada.ada.org

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What are the Best Teeth Replacement Options?

Posted on April 29, 2021 - 8:12 AM by admin

A set of teeth is like a new car; shiny and bright in the beginning but often in need of spare or replacement parts as time goes by. Losing a tooth is sometimes unavoidable. In fact, few will make it through life with 32 teeth.

Let’s explore a few teeth replacement options and how they can contribute to your overall dental health.

Causes of tooth loss

There are many causes of tooth loss. Topping the list is tooth decay and gum disease.

Tooth decay occurs when food particles containing carbohydrates (sugar and starches) are left on the teeth for some time. Bacteria that reside in the mouth digest these particles, turning them into acid. This acid damages and causes cavities. On the other hand, gum disease develops when too much plaque settles on the gum line, leading to swelling and reddening of the gum tissue. If not treated early, it tears down the bone that supports the teeth.

Accidents and sports injuries are other causes of teeth loss. Tooth loss can occur due to a fracture or crack in the bone from an accident. According to American Dental Assistants Association, 5 million teeth are lost yearly in the U.S because of sports injuries.

Impact of missing teeth

In some instances, there may be little impact. Depending on where the missing tooth is located, others may not quickly notice a gap in your mouth. Usually, this is the case when the missing tooth is at the side or back of your mouth.

However, your teeth are intended to work together, so losing one or more teeth can, to some extent, impact speech, eating, and other dental problems. It becomes uncomfortable and difficult to chew food. You may find yourself having to chew at a much slower pace or on one side of your mouth. This can affect your facial and jaw muscles.

Missing teeth can also change the outline of your face since it can cause your facial muscles to sag. What’s more, your bite may change to compensate or make up for the lost teeth, and the remaining ones (teeth) might move given the extra room. Unfortunately, this can cause tooth grinding, tooth sensitivity, and difficulty in chewing in the long run.

What are the best options if you lose your teeth?

The quick answer includes implants, bridges, and dentures.

A more detailed answer:

The ideal option for teeth replacement largely depends on the scope of dental work and your smile goals. Dental clinics offer different procedures, and each calls for a different amount of time, work, and expertise, along with a different cost.

Consider the following teeth replacement options:

Dental implants

Dental implants are one of the most preferred options when you wish to replace one or more teeth.

This treatment entails surgically mounting a titanium frame or post into your lower or upper jaw. Then, a replacement tooth is mounted to the implant, which helps the tooth remain in place securely.

While treatment costs may vary depending on various factors, the cost of a single tooth dental implant falls between $3000 and $6000.

Some benefits of dental implants include:

They are permanent and durable
They have a 95 percent treatment success rate
They provide an appealing aesthetic
They feel comfortable and natural
They require little maintenance other than cleanings, checkups, and good oral hygiene
They do not need any modification of the bordering teeth
They are an excellent tooth replacement method to prevent jawbone loss

Dental bridge

Bridges are fixed dental devices that bridge the gap formed by one or more missing teeth. There are three types of bridges – Traditional, Maryland, and Cantilever – but your doctor will help you pick the best option among the three.

A dental bridge gets its support from the nearby healthy teeth on the right or left side of the gap. The teeth that provide support to the bridge are known as abutments, while the ones that cover the gap are called pontics.

The placement of a dental bridge is usually not a surgical procedure; therefore, you will remain awake throughout the treatment. But, if you are uneasy or nervous about the thought of undergoing the treatment, your dentist might offer mild sedation to assist you to relax. Additionally, your dentist will numb the area in question with a local anesthetic by injecting some medication into your gums.

One of the best parts about dental bridges as a treatment option for missing teeth is that the recovery process is minimal. Actually, you can eat normally as soon as the dental bridge has been mounted in your mouth. A large majority of patients have no difficulties adapting to the bridge.

The cost of a dental bridge will depend on several factors, such as the materials needed, the type of bridge chosen, and any dental work required before installing this dental device. When it comes to materials, the charges for an all-porcelain bridge are higher than a porcelain-fused or metal-fused bridge.

Advantages of dental bridges include:

Feel and look like natural teeth
Don’t require removal for cleaning
They are usually cheaper than dental implants
Last for many years before calling for replacement
Easy to maintain and can be flossed and brushed just like ordinary teeth

Dentures

Dentures are a perfect tooth replacement option for people who are missing many of their teeth. A full or complete denture replaces all the missing teeth in either the lower or upper jaw. On the other hand, a removable partial denture is recommended when the patient still has some teeth left.

The procedure for a partial denture consists of replacement teeth being fastened to a natural-looking pink base. Generally, your natural teeth secure the removable plastic base in place. However, some dentures have a tiny clasp that connects to natural teeth.

Although the cost varies, pricing calculators estimate the cost of dentures to range from $1,500-$3,000.

Advantages of dentures include:

They are pretty affordable and take a minimal amount of time to create.
Look and feel natural in the mouth
Easily removed for cleaning
Allow patients to eat more comfortably

Consult your dentist for the best tooth-replacement option

There are many practical options to remedy a lost tooth, regardless if it was lost via injury, decay, or gum disease. Each option has its share of advantages and disadvantages, which your dentist can help you evaluate based on your budget and specific needs. All the best as you strive to improve your dental health and restore your smile.

Consult our Palo Alto dentists for all restorative dental procedures, including implants, bridges, and dentures.

Article resources:

Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:

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Top Dental Care Tips for Kids

Posted on February 28, 2021 - 11:09 AM by admin

February is the month of love and National Children’s Dental Health Month. It’s a great reminder to show us some love for your kid’s teeth.

Healthy adult teeth begin in childhood. They affect not just our children’s dentition, speech, and eating abilities, but also their self-esteem. A study report by the California Society of Pediatric Dentistry reports;

“Untreated dental disease compromises the child’s ability to eat well, sleep well, and function well at home and at school. The unaesthetic nature of untreated dental decay compromises the child’s self-esteem and social development.” (Source: The Consequences of Untreated Dental Disease in Children)

Poor dental health can affect your kids and lead to infection, gum disease, or other problems.

Oral tips for your kids

It can be challenging to encourage our children to be responsible for their dental health. We have listed the best dental tips for your kids. Small steps lead to drastic results.

1. Be their role model and educate your children

Whether it is younger or older children, they like to model their parents. Be their role model for dental hygiene, as you demonstrate proper habits to them until their adulthood. You can make certain routines like brushing and flossing shared activities with them.

Educate them about the importance of oral care and the right techniques of brushing and flossing. Read books and watch videos that explain dental hygiene to kids in a fun and educational way.

Plaque can be difficult to see, unlike cavities. You can do a fun science experiment with a plaque-disclosing tablet to talk about how plaque forms and looks to your children. Fun activities like these can reinforce the significance of oral health and its impact on their overall health.

2. Make brushing and flossing part of their daily routine

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends parents brush their children’s teeth until they are eight years, and floss them until they are 10. For babies and toddlers, their gums can be cleaned with a soft washcloth until their milk teeth erupt.

You can, of course, support daily brushing and flossing habits by getting your child to get more involved. They can shop for their favourite toothbrush, and you can have so many options these days with fun characters and colors. Look for soft bristle brushes for children. There are electric toothbrushes for children which clean teeth better. You can pick floss with a handle for your kids to use it more comfortably.

Your kids can pick their favorite toothpaste flavor. Make the daily brushing and flossing routine exciting for your children by playing songs in the background. The American Dental Association (ADA) has a special playlist for children to encourage their brushing habits.

Their toothbrushes need to be changed every 3-4 months, and the ADA recommends this. One sign when their brushes need to be tossed out is when they start to fray and get ineffective in their functioning. You should also teach your kids to brush and clean their tongues as well.

The ADA has changed its earlier stance and now recommends fluoridated toothpaste for all kids from the time their first tooth erupts. Tooth decay is the most common disease in childhood, overtaking asthma in recent years.

Children should learn to brush their teeth twice a day and floss once a day. The right technique of brushing and flossing is also important as an aggressive action or an incorrect method can harm their teeth and gums.

You can organize a craft session for your kids where they can make their track chart. It can be hung in their bathrooms and checked each time they brush and floss their teeth. They can also be rewarded for their consistency with anything they like to do. Alternatively, you can access fun coloring pages and activities on the ADA site.

3. Stock and prepare enjoyable teeth-friendly food options

There are so many teeth-friendly food choices for your children. Fruits, vegetables, lean meat, cheese, and nuts don’t just make great nutritional choices but can also reduce their risk of developing cavities. Limit processed food, cookies, candy, chips, and sugary soda beverages.

You can give a list of healthy teeth-friendly options to your child and let them pick their favorite foods from the grocery store.

If your child shows interest in gardening, you can encourage him or her to grow their own fruits and vegetables and prepare meals together.

4. Schedule regular dental visits

Like adults, you should bring your children to the dentist twice a year. Both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommend bringing your child to a dentist around their first birthday or when their first tooth appears.

Starting early will help your child get accustomed to dental visits, which are important for sustainable dental health. You can also ease dental anxiety in your children by reading books about dentist visits and help them be mentally prepared beforehand. A good family and pediatric dentist will also be adept at reducing your child’s fears and making them feel comfortable in the clinic.

A family and pediatric dentist will examine your child’s family history and look for any early signs of a cavity. They can also guide your child on the proper brushing and flossing techniques. There are many options like sealants for children to protect their teeth from harmful bacteria and cavities.

Final Thoughts

Celebrate the month of love with your children by showing some love for their teeth. A little bit of chocolate and candies hurt no one as long as your children are on track with their oral care. You can take pointers from our article, and of course, our dentists are always a call away.

And we assure you that your kids will have a lot to smile about all year long.

If you’re currently looking for a family and Pediatric Dentists in Palo Alto, you can trust Blue Turtle Dental services in Palo Alto, CA, for expert dental care. Call us for any dental queries, concerns, or to schedule an appointment.

(Disclaimer: We routinely draw upon public health resources to inform our write-ups. Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:

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Here Are the Top 10 Dental Procedures for a Brighter Smile in 2021

Posted on December 19, 2020 - 10:53 AM by admin

There’s more to looking good than what meets the eye. It takes a lot of discipline, mindfulness, and self-care to look and feel your optimal best. One of the instant ways to spread cheer is with a warm, big smile.

But how many of us pay attention to our teeth and give it the TLC that it deserves? Are your teeth yellow, chipped, uneven, or crooked? A smile can boost your confidence, and yet many people are self-conscious about their teeth, and more so, their smile.

Thankfully, there are affordable dental procedures that give you a smile makeover and help you create the best impression every time.

Dental Procedures For a Brighter Smile

With technological advancements, dental procedures is not just for the rich and famous anymore. Cosmetic, restorative, and orthodontic procedures are more affordable and accessible to everyone today. Modern dentistry can transform your smile through one or more procedures in consultation with and under the supervision of our Top Dentists in Palo Alto at Blue Turtle Dental.

Modern dentistry is more than just cleanings, fillings, and whitening. There are many dental procedures that improve not only your smile but overall dental health. Let’s look at the various cosmetic, restorative, and orthodontic procedures for your teeth and discuss them.

Types of Modern Dental Procedures to Beautify Your Smile

We list the ten best dental procedures available for various dental conditions. Your Best Cosmetic & Orthodontic Dentists in Palo Alto can help determine the right procedures for you.

1. Dental Bonding

Considered the easiest and most inexpensive cosmetic procedure: dental bonding. Bonding is a versatile treatment to fix various conditions such as stained, chipped, cracked, broken teeth, bite alignment, bad breath, tooth decay, teeth gaps, and as an alternative to silver or amalgam fillings.

A tooth-colored resin, which is putty-like or flexible, is contoured, polished, and applied to the natural tooth and then hardened with ultraviolet or laser light. This quick and painless process is called bonding.

2. Veneers

Known as “Hollywood teeth,” veneers are a cosmetic procedure to correct stained, mottled, cracked, chipped, broken teeth and fill in tooth gaps.

Veneers are wafer-thin, custom-made tooth-colored shells made of strong, durable, porcelain, resin, or ceramic glass which are cemented to the front surface of the teeth. They are used to reshape, resize, or change the color of the tooth. Veneers are an excellent option for stained or discolored teeth that cannot be treated with bleaching and usually used for the front teeth, visible during smiling and talking. Veneers are a more conservative option compared to crowns, but it’s a non-reversible process. They are non-porous, meaning they cannot be stained from foods and beverages, unlike natural teeth. However, they need to be regularly cleaned and maintained to avoid teeth decay and gum disease.

3. Crowns

When you have a damaged tooth that a filling or veneer cannot fix, crowns come to your rescue.

Crowns are caps for the whole tooth, unlike bonding, which is for a particular section of the tooth. Crowns are used to improve the appearance as well as to strengthen the tooth. They are made from metal, resin, ceramic, porcelain, or acrylic-fused-to-metal. Crowns can be used to treat many conditions like stained, cracked, broken, or missing teeth, bite alignment, and even bad breath. The tooth-shaped caps keep a weak or cracked tooth from breaking apart and strengthen it. It can also be part of a dental bridge and used to cover a dental implant.

Crowns are durable and last for several years but will have to be regularly maintained to prevent plaque buildup and decay.

4. Contouring/ Reshaping

If your teeth are in good condition, but there are minor issues such as uneven, overcrowded, or overlapped teeth, then enamel contouring or reshaping could be your solution. Small, discreet changes are done on the enamel, which yields big results to the overall look of your smile. It’s a fast, painless, and affordable option with immediate results and often combined with other procedures such as bleaching and bonding.

5. Orthodontics/ Braces

Orthodontics or braces can treat cosmetic issues such as buck teeth, crooked teeth, crowded teeth, irregular teeth spacing, bite issues, and chronic headaches that accompany teeth misalignment. Braces are not just for kids; technology has advanced to include orthodontic treatment for adults, too.

At Blue Turtle Dental, the Best Orthodontist In Palo Alto, CA, you can choose from three options:

Invisalign, which are removable, transparent plastic aligners to correct simple to complex teeth alignment issues.

The traditional metal braces used to correct bite and alignment issues are attached to your teeth for the entire treatment period. There are restrictions concerning food and drinks.

Clear braces are just like your traditional metal braces and function the same way. Except they are tooth-colored ceramic in nature; thus less visible and more aesthetic than the metal braces.

6. Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening or bleaching is an effective treatment option if you have yellow, stained, or discolored teeth. While there are many safe and effective over-the-counter whitening products, their results are not as quick, durable and effective as the professional treatment by dentists.

At Blue Turtle Dental, you can achieve teeth whitening results up to eight shades lighter, quickly. The teeth whitening procedure can be done in our dental office or at home with a custom-made mold and gels prescribed by our dentists.

7. Composite Fillings

Traditional silver metal fillings do not look good, even though they get the job done. It’s not just about the aesthetics, but also about the mercury content in silver amalgam fillings that make silver metal fillings less desirable. You have the option now to get your cavities filled with white fillings to prevent further decay and achieve a more natural look and safe result.

8. Dentures

Dentures are the perfect cosmetic procedure for many extracted, lost, or missing teeth. Dentures are custom-fit, removable, and look just like your natural teeth. There are complete dentures that replace all the teeth, and partial dentures, which are used to replace some of the missing teeth, alongside natural teeth.

9. Implants

Many people lose their complete tooth owing to decay, gum disease, injury, or trauma. Dental implants are tooth root replacements and usually made of titanium. Implants are fixed in the jawbone through minor surgery. They provide the foundation for permanent teeth, removable tooth or crowns, and attachments that support removable dentures.

Implants are a safe, comfortable, and durable option which can last for several decades with proper oral hygiene. If you are considering dental implants, consult our dentists who have extensive experience with a 98% success rate in choosing the right dental implants for you.

10. Bridges

Bridges are used to fill in the missing teeth so that the surrounding natural teeth do not move and shift from their original places and retain a natural, aesthetic look and smile.

There are two kinds of bridges: fixed or permanent bridge and cantilever bridge. The fixed bridge adheres crowns on the natural teeth on the two edges and attaches artificial teeth to fill in for the missing teeth in between. A cantilever bridge is used to replace missing teeth on only one side of the gap.

We Want To See You Smile!

Our dentists at Blue Turtle Dental, the best cosmetic dental services in Palo Alto, can help you find the right cosmetic dental procedure to improve your smile and overall oral health.

Contact the best cosmetic dentists in Palo Alto, CA, to schedule your initial consultation and get that dazzling smile you’ve always dreamed of.

(Disclaimer: We routinely draw upon public health resources to inform our write-ups. Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:

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Top 5 Dental Tips for a Healthy Halloween

Posted on October 20, 2020 - 5:39 PM by admin

2020 has been a hard year, and all of us need a break right now. Halloween comes as the perfect opportunity to let our hair down and enjoy the beginning of the holiday season. Get the dental tips from the experts!!

Of course, it doesn’t mean we throw caution to the wind during a global pandemic. We still need to follow the coronavirus guidelines of wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, maintaining at least a six feet distance from others, staying away from crowded places, and washing hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer.

You can still indulge in all the fun that accompanies the Halloween season – pumpkin carving, scavenger hunting, dressing up in Halloween costumes, and eating candy.

Talking of candy, that’s where the horror story for dentists begins. Halloween can spell disaster for the teeth, if the dental tips for this holiday are not followed. Eating candy occasionally and in moderation can do no serious harm. It’s the choice of candy, how many you eat, and how long it lasts in your mouth that determines the extent of damage on your teeth.

Let’s discuss in detail the preventive dental tips for Halloween to ensure you have many reasons to smile this holiday season.

1. Choose Treats Wisely

Halloween treats usually mean candy. You don’t have to be a killjoy and eliminate candy entirely from the party list.

Fortunately, not all candies are made alike, and you can still choose the healthiest options available on the menu.

Here is a lowdown of all the traditional candy options for Halloween and the best dental tips and picks for your teeth.

Chocolate: When it comes to the best traditional Halloween candy, chocolate wins hands down. The fact that it is popular among children and adults works in its favor as well. Chocolate melts easily and doesn’t stick to your teeth or stay in your mouth long to cause tooth damage. The darker the chocolate, the better for your teeth. It also has a lesser sugar content than the milk version.

Hard Candy: They harm your teeth, and can break it if you are not careful. Hard candy tends to stay in your mouth for a longer time, allowing the sugar to damage your teeth and gums. Unless it is a sugar-free product, try to avoid or limit this type of candy for Halloween.

Sticky Candy: Candies like taffy and gummies are sticky and can spell bad news for your dental health. It clings to your teeth, stays longer in your mouth, and tough to remove, allowing enough time to damage your teeth and gums.

Sour Candy: Though delicious, sour candy is highly acidic. The acid in sour candy can weaken and damage the teeth enamel putting it at higher risk for cavities. Be it hard or sticky form; sour candies are among the worst offenders of teeth and gums.

Popcorn: Popcorn might seem like a harmless, healthy treat at the outset, but it can also potentially damage your teeth. The hard kernels can get stuck in-between your teeth, and the caramel version is sticky and sugary.

2. Tackle the Bacteria

It’s not the candy per se, which wreaks havoc on your teeth. It is the bacteria that develops in your mouth due to the high sugar content in candies. The bacteria feast on the sugar and leftover food in your mouth, leaving behind erosive acids that cause teeth decay, cavities, and gum diseases.

One effective solution and dental tip is to chew sugarless gum with the ADA seal for 20 minutes after your meal. Chewing gum increases the saliva in our mouth and helps in neutralizing the acid produced by the bacteria. You can add the sugarless gum in your bag of treats for the Halloween party instead of candy.

3. Have a Plan

Having a plan in action beforehand will help you enjoy the candy treats as well as keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Candy is not harmful when eaten in moderation. The best time to eat candy is along with meals or immediately after mealtime. Saliva production increases during meals and helps rinse away the sugar, food particles, and harmful acids.

Educate and emphasize the need for a balanced diet for your family. Eating candy and consuming sugary carbonated beverages does nothing good for your body, including your teeth and gums. They lead to tooth decay and gum diseases.

Drink fluoridated water to prevent tooth decay and wash down the harmful effects of sugary candies and beverages is a good idea. Keep sufficient stock of water in handy for your Halloween party. Opting for sugar-free candies and drinks for ‘trick or treat’ is a smart choice as well.

You can take control and set a limit on your family’s candy consumption by keeping a limited stock and donating the rest to other people and charitable organizations.

4. Maintain Dental Hygiene

While you may know the basics and benefits of daily dental hygiene, you need to amplify your cleaning routine during Halloween.

Here’s how you can do it!

Don’t rush. Curb the tendency to rush to the bathroom to brush your teeth immediately after eating the candies. Brushing after you eat acidic foods can further damage your teeth enamel when it’s hypersensitive. Instead, drink lots of water to rinse away the sugar and food bits in your mouth, and wait for at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth with an ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste. You can also check with your dentist about the recommended toothpaste based on your teeth condition and type.

Take extra care of your teeth during Halloween. You can brush your teeth three times a day instead of the standard practice of 2 times a day and spend more time thoroughly brushing your teeth. Continue to floss once a day as it helps remove plaque and food bits from hard to reach places in your mouth.

5. Be Cautious about Halloween Costumes

This might sound bizarre, but your Halloween costume can indeed cause damage to your teeth.

The makeup, cosmetics, or accessories you use on your teeth to achieve a specific look, can harm your teeth. Check with your dentist before putting anything inside your mouth – fake teeth, prosthetics, or makeup. While they might not cause teeth cavities, the high lead content can be hazardous for your teeth.

Final Thoughts

Celebrating Halloween in times of the pandemic is a great idea. But, do follow the coronavirus guidelines, consult your dentist, and practice the above preventive dental care advice for a safe and fun-filled Halloween.

You can trust Blue Turtle Dental services in Palo Alto, CA, for expert dental care. We are enthusiastic about helping you and your children have a happy & safe Halloween.

To schedule a dental appointment before Halloween, call our dentists in Palo Alto, CA, now.

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Why You Must Schedule Your Child’s Back-to-School Dental Checkup Even if They’re Attending Online School

Posted on September 13, 2020 - 9:40 PM by admin

For generations in American history, Back to School has been an important time to check children’s general dental health. Call our children’s dentists in Palo Alto to schedule a back-to-school dental checkup for your kids even if they are attending online school.

Back to school dental checkup offers a fresh chance for a healthy start. It’s time for your children to get school books, cool stationery, and new toothbrushes!

Starting the new school year with a renewed commitment to dental hygiene puts your children on a winning track throughout the academic year. The American Dental Association estimates that dental diseases cause children to miss over 51 million school hours each year! Dental checkups are especially essential to fight the most common chronic dental condition: cavities. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid untreated dental diseases that can cause pain, trouble eating, difficulty in speaking and school absenteeism.

The academic year of 2020 presents unique challenges for parents and children. Your child’s dental problems remain the same whether the classroom is in place or online, and when neglected, has a direct impact on his or her school life. However, parents may hesitate to schedule dental checkups to reduce chances of community coronavirus transmission. Bear in mind that back-to-school dental check-ups are even more critical amid the current coronavirus pandemic to avoid easily treatable conditions that might result in dental disease flare-ups and emergency visits later on.

It’s a great idea to schedule a dental appointment with your child’s pediatric dentist before they start school to ensure they’re maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Some schools in California require your child to get a dental examination before going back to school in the fall. Even if your child’s school doesn’t mandate an appointment, it’s still essential for their overall health to see regularly see their dentist and get their annual dental checkup.

Why are Back-to-School dental check-ups important?

Your child cannot afford to miss a dental examination before heading back to the classroom. Dental check-ups are an essential part of your child’s overall health, which could affect his or her academic performance.

Dental examinations are equally important as immunizations and booster shots as per the American Dental Association. Back to school is the right time to pay attention to your children’s dental care, among other aspects such as their eyesight, disease prevention, and sports equipment.

Early detection with dental problems can ensure that your child gets treated at the right time and stays healthy throughout the academic year. When you ignore your child’s ‘back-to-school’ dental check-up, dental problems that arise in the course of the year can be painful and affect your child’s life, including his or her classroom performance. For example, tooth cavities, a common dental problem among children, can cause severe pain, difficulties in eating and speaking, poor concentration, and school absenteeism.

Dr. Alex Yen, one of the best children’s dentists in Palo Alto, CA, says that parents must treat their child’s ‘back-to-school’ appointments as preventive dental services. Children with dental complications get affected physically, mentally, and socially. A healthy mouth leads to improved concentration and classroom performance. Treating minor dental problems and preventing cavities boosts your child’s morale and school performance.

What happens during back to school appointments

With a recommended two dentist check-ups for children, back-to-school time is an ideal time to have one scheduled for your child.

At Blue Turtle Dental, our pediatric dentists in Palo Alto, we have been busy with back-to-school dental appointments. We maintain the highest standards of sanitation, health, and safety as per the COVID-19 regulations. If you have not made a Back-to-School dental appointment, please make the time and do it for your child. This appointment is always important, but more so than ever in these times.

The ‘back-to-school’ dental exam will help ensure your child is brushing and flossing correctly. It will help us identify any potential issues before they become an emergency visit and put your child’s mouth in a lot of trouble in the future. We examine your child’s overall dental health, looking for decays, cavities, gum diseases, misalignment, and malocclusions. Based on your child’s dental condition, we suggest the right treatment. Your child’s dental check-up may include the following procedures:

Professional Tooth Cleaning – This is a must! No matter how well your child brushes and flosses, a professional tooth cleaning removes more cavities-causing bacteria than routine brushing can achieve. Professional tooth cleaning also removes most teeth stains for children.
Fluoride Treatment – This is another must. Fluoride is a mineral that prevents caries in their very elementary, microscopic diseases stage. At your child’s dental exam, we will apply topical fluoride to protect their teeth and they may be advised not to rinse, eat, or drink for 30 minutes after the application.
X-ray Procedures – Dental x-rays help us observe the development of your child’s teeth and to check on their tooth root health. X-rays also help detect decay, if any.
Mouthguards Checks – If your child plays sports and uses mouthguards, back-to-school dental checkups is a good time to get the mouthguard evaluated for wear and tear and fit.
Sealants – Sealants are another way to protect your child’s teeth from cavities. Dental sealants create a thin protective barrier to prevent growth of bacteria and food accumulation in the molars (back teeth), where most common tooth decay occurs. Once permanent molars start coming in, ask your dentist if sealants are recommended for your child.

It is essential to maintain dental hygiene post the dental check-ups. Ensure your child is brushing twice a day, flossing once in a day, and eating a healthy diet that limits sugar intake.

Final Thoughts on Back-to-School Dental Checkups with Children’s Dentists in Palo Alto

A back-to-school dental appointment is critical in your child’s health and academic performance. You can trust Blue Turtle Dental services in Palo Alto, CA, for expert dental care. We are enthusiastic about helping your children start their school year on a happy, winsome note.To schedule a back-to-school dental appointment, call our children’s dentists in Palo Alto, CA, now.

Root Canal OR Dental Implant – Which choice is right for me?

Posted on September 4, 2020 - 8:20 PM by admin

Do you have an infected tooth that’s causing a lot of pain? Or do you have extensive tooth decay?

I’m Dr. Alex Yen, dentist in Palo Alto CA. When a patient’s tooth becomes infected, we must decide whether to save the tooth by performing a root canal or to extract the tooth and then go for dental implants.

At Blue Turtle Dental, our primary effort is always to save your natural tooth. This is our first choice for both health and cosmetic results. Ethically if the tooth is salvageable, we believe we should always save it and do the root canal treatment. Saving your natural tooth helps:

Maintain efficient chewing
Maintain normal biting force and avoid collapse of the bite
Maintain natural structure of your jaw
Limit the need for more costly, ongoing dental work

However, sometimes the decay is so bad, the tooth cannot be saved. We have no choice but to extract it. The best choice to replace an extracted tooth is implant, which provides permanence and the beauty of natural looking teeth.

We think about the prognosis of tooth decay, cause of the problem, longevity of the treatment, and other factors, such as the dentin strength and age when deciding on the two treatment options.

Let us understand the two treatment procedures, the benefits, and risks in detail.

Root Canal Treatment (RCT) in Palo Alto

When your tooth becomes infected, a root canal treatment lets you keep the tooth rather than extracting it. Keeping your tooth helps prevent the rest of your teeth from shifting out of line and causing jaw problems.

How does it work?

Root canal treatment or endodontic therapy is the most traditionally used treatment when a root is infected, or a tooth has severe decay or damage. Root canal procedures eliminate bacteria from the infected root canal. The cavity is cleaned, disinfected, and finally filled and sealed, thereby preserving your tooth.

The RCT is a safe and effective process of removing the infected, injured, or dead nerve and tissue (pulp) from the tooth. This procedure protects what’s left of the tooth and allows normal function.

The space inside the hard layers of each tooth is called the root canal system. The system is made up of soft dental pulp consisting of nerves, tissues, and blood vessels.

The infected pulp tissue is manually removed with files of various sizes to clean out the canal. With the help of very fine dental instruments, the dentist removes the pulp by cleaning and enlarging the root canal system.

The root canal is the first step in the whole tooth restoration. After the root canal, the tooth is prone to becoming dry and brittle. The goal is to restore or fix the tooth to look, feel, and function just like your natural tooth.

The final steps are the core build-up and crown. The canal is shaped, filled, and sealed most commonly with a natural replacement material called gutta percha. The opening of the tooth is sealed with a temporary filling first, and then a permanent filling and a crown to restore the tooth. The choice of restoration, such as a crown or posts to support the crown, will depend on the strength of the part of the tooth that’s left.

What you should know about root canal treatment in Palo Alto

Considerable advancements in technology allow dentists to complete root canal treatment, even for teeth with complex anatomies, to the highest level of precision.

Most root canal treatments are successful and done in 1 or 2 appointments. After the treatment, your tooth may be tender for the first one or two weeks. If you suffer from severe pain or swelling, you should immediately call your dentist.

A second root canal treatment would be needed in a few rare cases and is called retreatment. During the retreating of a tooth, the root canal filling material is taken out, and the canal system is recleaned, reshaped, and refilled.

Sometimes root canal surgery is needed when a regular root canal treatment cannot be done or has not worked. A root canal surgery is done to check for fractures or cracks in the root, remove parts of the root that could not be cleaned during the root canal treatment, and clear up an infection that did heal after regular treatment.

With proper care and regular dental visits, the restored tooth lasts as long as your other teeth. Often, the tooth that has had a root canal treatment can be saved. However, when nothing can be done further, a tooth must be extracted.

Benefits of a Root Canal

Some top benefits of getting a root canal treatment are:

You don’t lose your original tooth.
Minimal pain
Less expensive than a dental implant procedure
Takes less time than a dental implant
Less recovery time than dental implant
High success rate

Risks of a Root Canal

While the root canal treatment offers many benefits and has a very high success rate, complications like abscesses can arise if the entire infected pulp is not removed, which underscores the importance of visiting an experienced dentist trained in endodontics.

Call the best root canal dentists in Palo Alto, CA if you’d like to discuss treatment options.

Dental Implants

If the dental examination reveals that saving the tooth is not the best long-term solution for you, only then will we consider a dental implant. Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth and support artificial replacement teeth.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant involves removing the original tooth, installing a metal post in the jaw, and finally, inserting a porcelain dental crown to the post.

A dental implant is an artificial root made of titanium metal. It is inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of the natural tooth. An artificial replacement tooth is attached to the implant. The implant acts as an anchor to hold the replacement tooth in place.

First, the original tooth is removed. A dental implant, which is an artificial root made of titanium metal, is inserted into the jawbone under the gum tissue. The gum tissue is stitched back into place and takes some time to heal. During the healing process, which can take up to several months, the dental implant will bond with the bone and attach to the gum.

After the healing process is complete, the dentist will attach an abutment to the implant. An abutment is a post that connects the replacement tooth to the dental implant.

An artificial replacement tooth is made and attached to the abutment. It can take several appointments to fit the replacement tooth to the abutment correctly.

If the dentist is replacing several teeth or all of your teeth, a fixed bridge is anchored to the dental implants on each side of the missing tooth or teeth.

What you should know about dental implants

You may need several appointments with your dentist during the procedure. Checkups will be scheduled in the following year as well to check if the implants are functioning properly.

Dental implants look and function like natural teeth. So, they need the same amount of care as natural teeth. Your dentist will demonstrate the proper cleaning technique for implants. Regular cleaning using a toothbrush and floss and dental checkups are essential.

Dental implants can cost more than other replacement procedures. But they are a one-time cost, unlike other tooth replacement procedures.

Very rarely, there could be possible complications arising from dental implants such as infection, bleeding, numbness, and injury.

Benefits of a Dental Implant

Here are some benefits of a dental implant:

They are aesthetic, comfortable, look, and function like natural teeth
Long-lasting and can last decades with proper care
Low failure rate

Risks of a Dental Implant

Below are some of the cons of getting a dental implant:

Lengthy process
Time intensive
Costly without insurance
Longer recovery period

Root Canal vs. Implant: Which is the best option?

Making comparisons between the two treatments is like comparing apples with oranges.

The American Dental Association reports that both root canal therapy and dental implants have high success rates. A similar study published by the Journal of Endodontics found no notable difference in the success rates of a standard RCT versus dental implant.

Root canals and dental implants are equally successful, but implants may need more follow-up procedures.

The decision to pursue a particular treatment procedure should be based on the complexity of the patients’ individual cases, health, and preferences.

If your tooth is salvageable, we would always work to save it and recommend root canal to preserve your natural tooth. However, if you have extensive tooth decay, the tooth has a poor prognosis, and you have healthy gums and enough bone in the jaw to hold an implant, then we would recommend extraction followed by an implant..

Need more information about the root canal treatment or a dental implant? Call Blue Turtle Dental services in Palo Alto CA, to make an informed decision and find the best root canal treatment in Palo Alto.

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