Dentist Tips | Goldsboro, NC | P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S.

Everything You Need to Know About Dental Bridges

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 20:13:00 GMT

A dental bridge is just what its name suggests - a structure that connects two teeth together. It bridges the gap between your teeth where you have one or more missing teeth. Before you undergo the procedure, you may want to educate yourself about what a bridge is and the process for getting one. Keep reading to learn more.

Information About Bridges

A bridge consists of two or more crowns on the sides of your missing teeth. These teeth are anchor teeth that support the teeth in the middle, which are your replacement teeth. Implants are capable of acting as anchor teeth.

You choose the material of your replacement teeth from options such as the following:

Gold
Porcelain
Alloy
Porcelain-fused-to-metal

Your dentist will discuss the pros and cons of your option to help you make an informed decision based on your budget, habits, and desires.

Type of Dental Bridges

Four main types of dental bridges exist, and each are used in different situations.

Traditional Bridge

Traditional bridges are the most common kind of bridge a dentist uses on a patient. It consists of crowns cemented to your abutment teeth. A dentist connects a false tooth or teeth to the abutment teeth. It's the kind of bridge a dentist uses when you have natural teeth on both sides of your gap.

Maryland Bridge

A Maryland bridge is similar to a traditional bridge. Usually, a dentist bonds either a metal or porcelain wing on one or both sides of your replacement tooth or teeth.

Implanted-Supported Bridge

An implant-supported bridge uses the same concept as other bridges, but instead of crowns or framework, your dental practitioner implants abutments and artificial teeth. A dentist may also place a pontic (a type of artificial tooth) in between two crowns supported by implants.

Cantilever Bridge

This type of bridge is the least likely option a dentist will use on your teeth. It's an ideal option for your front teeth since it's not as stable as the other options. You're less likely to damage a cantilever bridge on your front teeth, which don't sustain the brunt of the force like your back teeth do.

A cantilever bridge implements the same concept of the aforementioned options, but a dentist uses it when you only have a stable tooth on one side of replacement teeth.

Procedure

Your procedure will vary based on your specific needs. However, anyone who requires a dental bridge can expect at least two visits once a dentist determines you may benefit from a bridge.

First Appointment

During your first visit, your dentist will craft a mold of the teeth that play a role in the bridge.

If you have any concerns about discomfort during your dental work or have dental anxiety, you should discuss this with your practitioner. Together, you can decide if sedation is necessary and what type is ideal for you.

You will receive any special instructions for your procedure day at this visit. For instance, if you're taking any type of sedative, your dentist will advise you to have someone drive you to and from your appointment.

Second Appointment

At your second visit or possibly your third, your dentist will fit you for a permanent bridge and prepare your teeth for the process. Then, your dentist will cement the crowns to your teeth. Before you receive the bridge, your dentist will apply a local anesthetic to the area.

A dental bridge helps replace missing teeth. You have four options, and a dentist can help you decide which one is best for you. Overall, the procedure is relatively straightforward and requires little preparation on your part.

Schedule an appointment with P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S., serving Goldsboro, NC and the general vicinity, for a routine dental exam or to address any concerns you have.

Everything You Need to Know About Flossing

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 13:43:00 GMT

Just 40 percent of Americans incorporate flossing into their daily dental hygiene each day, while another 20 percent of the population avoid it entirely. Whether they view flossing as a non-essential activity or they simply dislike doing it, these individuals run an elevated risk for cavities and chronic gum diseases.

You may never have understood why flossing matters so much to your dental health, or perhaps you weren't sure how to go about it correctly. Here are some important points to help you get better acquainted with this important form of preventative dental health so you can adopt it in your own everyday life.

How Flossing Supports Your Dental Health

Many dentists view flossing as a key supplement to brushing for preserving dental wellness. Toothbrushes can't always remove the tiny bits of food that get stuck between teeth. These food particles attract bacteria, potentially leading to cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis (chronic gum disease).

According to WebMD, studies have shown that people who floss regularly have less trouble with painful, damaging gum inflammation. The removal of those stubborn food particles not only supports healthy gums but also prevents dental infections from migrating from the gum tissue to other parts of the body, such as the major organs.

How to Floss Correctly

The traditional method of flossing requires approximately 18 inches of dental floss wrapped around two fingers. Work a stretched length of floss between two teeth, rubbing up and down. Bend the floss into a Ccurve to remove food from the gum line and flat tooth surfaces.

As you go from tooth to tooth, wrap the used bit of floss around one finger while freeing a corresponding amount of floss from the other finger. This method ensures that you always apply fresh, clean floss to your teeth and gums instead of simply redistributing accumulated plaque and food particles.

How Different Flossing Methods and Devices Compare

Some people cannot use the traditional flossing technique effectively due to physical limitations such as arthritis. However, these individuals can still make a regular effort to remove trapped food from between their teeth via alternative flossing techniques and devices.

Dental Floss Picks

These small, disposable picks have a small length of floss already stretched between two plastic prongs, with a handle that allows for easy manipulation. You can move the floss between your teeth in the same manner as traditional flossing.

Water Picks

A water pick can also prove useful for keeping your teeth free of bacteria, both above and below the gum line. This device features a long, thin plastic tube attached to a water-filled reservoir. Electricity forces jets of water through the nozzle of the tube and between your teeth, knocking food away from tight spaces.

Bear in mind that water picks have some limitations compared to actual flossing. While they can reduce bacterial infiltration, they lack floss's ability to scrape plaque and biofilm off of your teeth. If you use a water pick, you should try to use it to reinforce the effectiveness of your flossing.

Interdental Brushes

If you find all of these options unsatisfactory for whatever reason, try cleaning the spaces between your teeth with interdental brushes. These small, slim brushes come in a variety of sizes, but they generally work better for people with relatively large spaces between their teeth.

To use an interdental brush, simply insert it between your teeth and apply a gentle brushing motion. You can use an interdental brush more than once, but you still need to change them out frequently. When used correctly, interdental brushes can remove food and plaque even more effectively than traditional floss.

P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S., can tell you more about flossing techniques, options, and benefits. Contact our dental clinic today to schedule a consultation.

What Every Dental Patient Should Know About Water Flossers

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 16:17:00 GMT

Water flossers, also known as oral irrigators, are a relatively modern product. Several versions are available, such as a countertop version, a handheld version, and even one that installs in your shower and uses only water pressure to run. But before you decide to try a water flosser, you probably want to know a little more about them.

And since water flossers can be a great tool for home dental care, every dental patient should know the basics about water flossers. Here are some facts you should know about these tools and how they're used.

Water Flossers Are Gentle and Can Reduce Bleeding

If you haven't flossed your teeth enough recently, you may find that your gums bleed a lot when you start up again. A water flosser can be a great way to ease back into this habit because water flossing helps to reduce gum bleeding. If you're a bit squeamish about blood or just find that the bleeding and swelling is hard to stomach, water flossing may help.

Water Flossers Help Clean Hard-to-Reach Spots

Your dentist may recommend gentle flossing techniques to avoid gum damage. But if your teeth are so close together that even specialized gliding floss can't get in without a lot of force, you could end up irritating your gums if you floss daily. In this scenario, you should talk to your dentist about potentially using a water flosser. They're great for people with braces too.

Water Flossers Have Been Shown to Remove Plaque

One reason you may be wary about trying a water flosser is because it just shoots water at your teeth, which may sound similar to just swishing water around in your mouth. However, because of the force of the targeted stream the water flosser sprays, it can actually clean your teeth (similar to a pressure washer, although much gentler of course).

In fact, at least one study shows that a water flosser (or at least one specific model) does have the effect of from teeth. When combined with the ease of use and gentler effects of a water flosser, this evidence can make water flossing very attractive.

Water Flossers Aren't Recommended to Replace String Floss

Although they may remove plaque and reduce gum bleeding, water flossers are still a relatively new product. Many dentists prefer to recommend what they know will work: string floss. So unless you have extenuating circumstances and your dentist agrees string floss just doesn't work for you, they typically won't recommend that you switch over entirely.

In addition, water flossing uses a different methodology for plaque removal than string floss does. As such, it may have different strengths and weaknesses, so it can never be completely interchangeable with string floss. However, your dentist may recommend that you use a water flosser in addition to more traditional flossing methods.

Water Flossers Can Deliver Medicated Mouthwash

One function a water flosser has that string floss doesn't is delivering medicated mouthwash. If you have a prescription for medicated mouthwash, a water flosser can help to spread the medication deep into the gum pockets that would be difficult to reach otherwise.

As you can see, the question of to water floss or not to water floss isn't always a simple one. However, water flossers can be quite affordable now (especially the handheld size), so if you think you'll benefit from one, give it a try. Just be sure to talk to your dentist about your oral hygiene before deciding to partially or completely replace string floss with water flossing.

For great professional dental care and guidance on home dental cleaning, call the office of P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S. , today and schedule an appointment.

Root Canal or Extraction? Your Guide to Making the Right Decision

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 18:35:00 GMT

When you have a severely damaged or diseased tooth, the pain can be excruciating. There are two main options for the treatment of a tooth that has more than a simple cavity: root canal or extraction. When you understand both options and their pros and cons, you can work with your dentist to make the best decision to keep your mouth as healthy as possible.

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy removes the bacteria and infection from the root and helps save your tooth.

The Procedure

When you visit your dentist for a root canal, the first thing they'll do is numb the area with a local anesthetic and place a piece of rubber around your infected tooth to keep it dry while the dentist performs the procedure.

Your dentist will drill a hole in your tooth to remove the pulp and any decayed tissue, bacteria, and debris. Once your tooth is clean, your dentist may put medication inside the tooth to treat any infection and place a temporary filling inside until they can seal the tooth several days later.

If you don't need medication, your dentist will permanently seal your tooth the same day.

Aftercare

While many people associate root canals with painful recovery times, modern procedures make most root canals nearly painless. You might experience mild discomfort and sensitivity for a few days after your root canal, but over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, are usually all you need.

Root canals cause very little downtime. Most patients can return to work and normal activities the day after the procedure.

Other Considerations

Most dental insurance policies will at least partially cover the cost of a root canal, but you may have to pay several hundred dollars out of pocket for the procedure. While a root canal often costs more than an extraction initially, the overall cost is often lower when you consider the cost of replacing an extracted tooth with a bridge or implant.

Some dentists refer patients to an endodontist, a dental professional who specializes in root canal therapy, for more complicated root canals.

Extraction

While saving your natural tooth is always preferable, your tooth might need to be pulled if the infection or damage is too severe for a successful root canal.

If you need a tooth extraction, your dentist will remove your tooth and the roots entirely. This eliminates the infection, but it leaves a gap that can require a subsequent procedure to replace the missing tooth.

The Procedure

Most tooth extractions are relatively simple. Your dentist will numb your mouth with a local anesthetic, remove your tooth, and clean out any debris and infection. You'll have a gauze pad packed inside the hole to minimize bleeding and encourage a clot to form so the space can heal.

Aftercare and Results

Recovery from an extraction usually takes a few days. Your dentist may prescribe painkillers to minimize any discomfort during the first couple of days. You'll need to change your gauze pads regularly. Apply ice to the outside of your cheek for 10 to 15 minutes at a time to minimize swelling.

The most important thing to do after you have a tooth pulled is to prevent dry socket. Dry socket is a painful condition that happens if the blood clot is dislodged. Don't smoke, spit forcefully, or drink through a straw for at least 24 to 48 hours. Eat soft foods for the first few days.

Other Considerations

Once the extraction site heals, you can discuss tooth replacement with your dentist. A space in your mouth is unsightly and can cause your other teeth to shift, which can create bite problems and further tooth damage.

You can usually opt for a bridge or a dental implant to fill in the gap. Dental implants cost more than bridges, but they look more natural and last much longer.

If you're experiencing tooth pain or have a damaged or infected tooth and still aren't sure if root canal therapy is right for you, contact us at P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S., to make an appointment to discuss your situation and go over all available treatment options.

How Can You Prevent and Control Tartar Buildup?

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 22:02:00 GMT

What can you do to remove tartar buildup? Also known as calculus, plaque and minerals that harden on your teeth and under the gumline form tartar. Before this sticky buildup causes too many dental problems, take a look at what you can do to reduce the risks and minimize an existing issue. Understand the Issue Do you have tartar buildup? If you're not sure, the first step is to understand and identify this common oral issue and learn how it's formed. Tartar starts with plaque-and plaque starts with bacteria. Improper oral care, dry mouth, some medications, and some chronic health conditions can result in bacterial overgrowth in the mouth. Plaque is a sticky, colorless biofilm that coats the teeth and can lead to enamel breakdown, dental decay, infection (abscesses), and gum disease. Along with these issues, failure to remove plaque can result in tartar buildup. As the minerals in your saliva mix with the sticky plaque, it hardens to form yellow or brownish deposits on or between teeth. Like plaque, tartar can also lead to dental decay and gum disease. This makes prevention absolutely essential. Read on for more information on how to prevent tartar buildup on your teeth. Prevent Tartar from the Start Prevention is the easiest way to reduce the risks of tartar buildup. Again, hardened plaque turns into tartar. If you prevent plaque formation, you can stop tartar in its tracks. To decrease plaque problems:

Brush regularly . Brush your teeth at least twice a day (morning and night) for two minutes. To further reduce the risks of buildup, brush after meals-especially after eating sugar-filled foods. The bacteria that contribute to plaque and tartar buildup thrive on sugar.
Choose the right toothpaste . A tartar-preventing paste or gel can make it more difficult for plaque and tartar to form on your teeth.
Reduce sugar intake . Choose lower-sugar foods to decrease bacterial buildup. While this won't eliminate plaque or tartar, it can help to keep the microbes in your mouth under control.
Floss regularly . Don't ignore the spaces in between your teeth. Tartar can build up in these places too. Floss twice a day or after meals to remove food debris.
Swish with water . Did you forget your toothbrush or are you short on time? If you can't brush after meals, swish tap water in your mouth. This can help to remove leftover debris and decrease buildup.
Visit the dentist . Regular dental visits reduce plaque formation and can stop tarter problems before they start.

What happens if, despite your best efforts, tartar forms? The next step is to take care of the problem and remove the yellow/brown buildup from your teeth. Remove Tartar Buildup Can you see yellow or brownish patches on your teeth? If you already have tartar buildup on your teeth, effective removal may include:

A visit to the dentist . A professional cleaning is your best defense against an existing problem. The dentist (or hygienist) has the experience, expertise, and equipment needed to remove calculus from each surface of your teeth.
A deep - cleaning . Severe tartar buildup under the gumline can lead to gingivitis. If you also have red, swollen, or bleeding gums, the dentist may recommend scaling and root planing to remove tartar from below the gumline.
Repeat visits . The dentist may ask you to schedule a follow-up appointment or visit the office for cleanings multiple times each year. This allows the professional to remove additional buildup.

After the dentist removes the tartar buildup, they may suggest sealants (depending on your individual dental needs). This thin, protective coating can reduce the risks of plaque formation and help to prevent decay. Do you have tartar buildup? Contact us at the office of P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S. for more information.

Your Child and Their First Lost Tooth

Thu, 11 Jul 2019 03:53:00 GMT

Is your child ready to lose their first tooth? Children typically start losing their baby teeth around age six , depending on the child's individual oral development. If your little one has a wiggly tooth or two, take a look at what you need to know about this all-important step in dental development.

Decide to Pull or Not to Pull

Your child's tooth is hanging on by a string. Even though it's about to fall out, it just won't. Should you grab the tooth and pull? Or should you leave it as is and let nature take its course - even if it takes days to eventually fall out? In general, let the tooth fall out on its own. This minimizes the risk of trauma to your child's mouth. But if your child's tooth is more than just loose and is almost completely separate from the gum, place a clean tissue over it and wiggle away. If the tooth doesn't come out easily, never try to force it. The method of tying one end of a string around the tooth and other on a doorknob is never advisable under any circumstance.

Know What to Do With the Lost Tooth

Now that the tooth is out, what should you do next? Chances are your child eagerly anticipates the arrival of the tooth fairy. If you're not at home when the tooth falls out, wrap it in a paper towel or tissue and place it somewhere safe (such as your purse or your child's backpack). If you are at home, you can still fold the tooth into tissue. A young, curious child often wants to look at and explore their recently lost tooth. If you have concerns about your child taking the tooth out before you can put it under their pillow at night, find a hiding spot that your child can't access. This prevents permanent loss.

Welcome the Tooth Fairy

The tooth has made it through the day without little hands accidentally dropping it down the drain, into the toilet, or anywhere else. Now you're ready to prepare for the tooth fairy's visit. This leads many parents to one question - how much should the tooth fairy give the child? The answer to this question depends on several factors, including:

Your personal preference. Some parents have a definite limit about how much money the tooth fairy leaves, while others want to give as much as possible. Your comfort level is the most important part of the tooth fairy calculation equation.
The going rate. If you have no idea what's a reasonable tooth fairy gift, consider the average going rate. Ask your friends who have kids, the parents of your child's classmates, or family members. According to a recent survey of 1,000 parents, the average rate is just short of four dollars.
Other gifts. Some parents prefer to leave a small gift instead of money.

Along with leaving money/a gift, you can make your child's first tooth fairy experience special with an added activity. Have your child draw a picture for the fairy. Write a note (as the tooth fairy) and leave it as a thank you for the drawing.

Create a Keepsake

The tooth for money exchange is over. What should you do with the tooth? You have several different options, depending on your preference. Some parents save the tooth (especially the first tooth) as a keepsake. You can stash the tooth in a keepsake box, holding on to for years to come. If you want to take saving a step farther, you can pay an artist to turn the tooth into a personalized piece of jewelry. Do you have concerns about your child's first lost tooth? Contact the office of P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S. , for more information.

Tips for Dental Implants in Old Age

Mon, 13 May 2019 09:10:00 GMT

Many people wonder whether they can get dental implants in old age. While you can get dental implants even in your senior years, you should know the following things about dental implant treatment in your senior years.

Age Is Not a Barrier

Evidence shows that age is not a barrier to dental implant treatment. You don't have to reassign yourself to a toothless life or opt for alternative treatments such as removable dentures just because you are old. Just listen to your dentist, adhere to their advice, and maintain impeccable oral hygiene for your dental implant treatment to succeed.

Expect Age-Related Complications

Although age alone is not a barrier to dental implant treatment, age-related problems may complicate your dental implant treatment. Older candidates for dental implants usually have a few issues to deal with that their younger counterparts don't have; here are some of those issues. Bone Deterioration As you age, you might not have the same strong bones you used to have in your younger days. The bone density decreases with age, and diseases such as osteoporosis only make matters worse. For females, menopause increases the risk of bone deterioration. All these things mean your jawbone may be less dense than it used to be when you were young. Decreased bone density is a problem because the jawbone anchors the implant (metal) that acts as the root of your teeth. Without adequate jawbone, the implant may not be strong enough to support your artificial tooth plus the loads that teeth normally have to bear. Fortunately, the dentist can graft or build up your jawbone to strengthen it before the implant treatment. Compromised Immunity Old age often comes with diseases that compromise a person's immunity. Examples of age-related diseases include arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes among others. Immunity affects the rate of healing of wounds. A compromised immunity will affect your implant's rate of healing (dental implant treatments involve minor surgery). Fortunately, you don't have to worry about implant healing if you have your health issues under control. For example, your implant will heal just fine if you have diabetes but always take your medications. Difficulties With Oral Care Some age-related issues may make oral care difficult for the elderly. For example, you may struggle to brush and floss every day if you have dexterity issues with your hands. You may also forget to floss and brush if you have a disease, such as Alzheimer's disease, that interferes with your memory. Impeccable dental care is a prerequisite for dental implant success. Without good dental care, the implant site may become infected and slow down the healing or even lead to the implant's failure. Get someone to help you take care of your oral hygiene if you can't do it on your own.

Implants May Improve Your Health

Although old age may present some difficulties with dental implants, the implant treatment may also help you solve some health complications that come with old age. Here are some examples of such complications. Tooth Loss Old age is a factor for tooth loss. Unfortunately, you are likely to lose more teeth if you have already lost some. Dental implant treatment will help you retain the teeth you already have. Poor Nutrition You may fail to chew food properly if you don't have some of your teeth. If you don't chew food properly, digestion and absorption of the food suffer, and you end up with poor nutrition. Dental implant treatments help you chew food properly and enjoy good nutrition. Jawbone Deterioration Missing teeth is one of the factors that leads to jawbone deterioration. The deterioration occurs because the jawbone doesn't get the stimuli (from teeth) it needs to regenerate. Dental implants will stimulate the jawbone and minimize its deterioration. Contact P. A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S., for a consultation if you have lost one or more teeth. Our assessment will reveal whether you are a dental implant candidate (most people are) and what you need to do for dental implant success before we begin the process.

Dentist or ER? What to Know Before a Dental Emergency

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 01:37:00 GMT

Sudden and serious mouth pain can ruin your day. What should you do when a dental dilemma gets serious? Before you rush to the emergency room, take a look at why you should visit the dentist instead and what you can do to prevent a similar situation from happening again.

How Many Dental Patients Visit the ER?

If you seek emergency dental treatment from a hospital ER, you aren't alone. Between 2000 and 2010, the number of people who chose emergency medical treatment for dental issues rose from 1.1 million to 2.1 million, according to the American Dental Association (ADA).

The patients with the greatest likelihood of choosing an ER over a dentist's office are uninsured adults ages 19 to 34. But that doesn't mean other people don't also choose ER treatment as a primary method for emergency dental care. Whether you have an accidental injury that happens on the weekend or have health insurance but not dental insurance, the ER may seem like the sensible way to go.

What Are the Disadvantages of Going to the ER for Dental?

Simply stated, most hospital ERs aren't equipped to handle dental emergencies. Your dentist has specialized training in oral issues, including diseases and injuries of the teeth, gums, interior of the mouth, and jaw. While an ER doctor has extensive training in medicine, they typically don't have the same level of mouth-specific knowledge that your dentist does.

According to the ADA, 1.65 million ER visits could receive dental clinic care. Visiting the ER for a toothache or injury may not get you the treatment you need. Depending on the problem, you may need a filling, crown, or root canal. These types of repairs require a dentist and the equipment/materials in the dentist's office.

Even though the ER physician may diagnose the problem and can provide you with some pain relief (again, depending on the problem), it's likely you'll still need to see the dentist afterwards.

What Are the Advantages of Going to the Dentist?

Not only does the dentist have the knowledge, tools, and materials to treat most dental emergencies, but they also have the ability to provide ongoing follow-up care. ER departments provide immediate, emergency medical management - without the expectation that the patient will return for care.

The dentist's office may also save you time and money. A visit to the ER could take hours or longer - especially if the hospital has severely ill or injured patients to treat. Even though treatment prices vary widely (depending on geographic region, the hospital/dental office's price-points, and your insurance), hospital ER visits tend to cost more than what a trip to the dentist would.

When Should You Choose an ER for Dental Problems?

In some cases, an ER is the appropriate emergency treatment option. A serious jaw injury, a possible broken jaw/facial bone, an oral infection that causes a high fever, or other severe systemic symptoms, or other similar issues may require immediate treatment from an emergency room. If you're unsure whether to go to the ER, contact your dental or medical provider immediately.

How Can You Prevent Emergency Dental Visits?

Accidents and injuries are often unavoidable. There typically isn't anything that a patient can do to prevent a mouth injury that happens due to a slip and fall or facial impact. But you can prevent other dental issues that may cause you to seek emergency treatment.

What you eat and how you care for your mouth are major factors that contribute to your dental health. If chipped, cracked, or broken teeth are a concern, avoid hard or sticky foods, such as hard candies, or chewing on ice. Along with preventing damage, routine at-home dental care and visiting your dentist regularly can reduce the risks associated with dental disease and the associated pain.

Do you need to improve your preventative dental care routine? Contact P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S. for more information.

5 Advantages of Choosing Porcelain Dental Crowns

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

You want to have a healthy, attractive smile to show the world, but genetics, poor dental hygiene, and other factors can affect your smile. Not only can dental issues affect your self-esteem, but they can also impact the opinions of others. Luckily, cosmetic dentistry has come a long way, allowing patients to finally get the smile they want. If you are unhappy with your smile, check out these five advantages of porcelain dental crowns.

1. They Look Like Real Teeth

Dental crowns are made from many materials, such as metal and tooth-colored composite. However, only porcelain dental crowns actually look like real teeth to the naked eye. Our team can help you find the perfect shade of white, and the translucent appearance of porcelain helps give the illusion of real tooth tissue.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are commonly used on back teeth because they are more durable. However, the metal sometimes shows through the porcelain around the base of the tooth, making it a poor choice for front teeth. On front teeth, all-porcelain crowns are typically used. They are less durable, but look great.

2. You Can Get a Smile Makeover

One reason patients love porcelain dental crowns is because it can give you a fast smile makeover because they fix many cosmetic concerns. Not only can they hide stubborn stains, but they can make your teeth look almost flawless by hiding chips, cracks, mild gaps, mild overcrowding, misaligned teeth, etc. They also hide fillings, giving your teeth a more consistent appearance and texture, making them look healthier.

The crowns are also resistant to stains, but if they do dull or become dingy, you can't whiten them with tooth whitening. You'll need to replace them if you become unhappy with the color.

3. They Strengthen Weak Teeth

Many of the issues corrected by dental crowns can also be corrected with veneers, but unlike porcelain veneers, dental crowns strengthen weak teeth. This makes them the better choice if you have lots of fillings from decay, root canal treatments, etc. If you have lots of big fillings, the tooth is more likely to crack or shatter under pressure. By placing a crown over the tooth, however, you remove the weak spots, so the pressure is spread evenly across the surface of the tooth.

4. They Protect Against Bacteria

Dental crowns cover every exposed surface of your teeth, unlike veneers, which only cover the front surface of front teeth. For this reason, they protect your teeth well against bacteria. The crown works better than enamel to prevent plaque and bacteria from destroying teeth.

Your teeth are still exposed at the gum line, so you need to continue cleaning your teeth like normal. In fact, you may need to take better care of your teeth to prevent gum recession, which exposes more tooth root to decay.

5. They May Be Covered by Some Insurance

Porcelain dental crowns are an investment in your smile, so they aren't cheap, but many insurance carriers may pay some of the cost. In fact, an average insurance payment for a dental crown may be about $953 . Your insurance will only reimburse some of the cost if the dental crown is necessary to protect or strengthen the tooth.

Having a less-than-perfect smile can affect your self-esteem and keep you from smiling, but thanks to cosmetic dentistry, there are many ways to get a more attractive smile. With porcelain dental crowns, you can get a beautiful, healthy smile you want everyone to see. If you would like more information regarding dental crowns or another cosmetic procedure to improve your smile, contact our friendly staff at P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S. Dentistry.

5 Undeniable Reasons To Quit Smoking For Your Dental Health

Wed, 19 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Smoking is a dangerous habit that needs to stop. That's a message most smokers have already received loud and clear. The American Dental Association reveals that tobacco use is among the top causes of preventable illness in the United States.

What you may not know is that smoking can be extremely detrimental to your dental health. Consider these serious and undeniable reasons to stop smoking today for your dental health. Spoiler alert: Quitting smoking will be good for your overall health, too!

Reason #1: Smoking Often Leads to Oral Cancer

Smoking is tied to around 28.6 percent of deaths in the country, according to The New York Times . The Oral Cancer Foundation reports that 50 people will die because of tobacco in the next hour. Few people want to even think about the c word, but cancer is a growing health problem in the United States. About 80 percent of people who have oral cancer are tobacco users.

Tobacco smoke has more than 7,000 different chemicals . According to the National Cancer Institute, at least 70 of these chemicals can cause cancer. Among the chemicals are formaldehyde (used for embalming people after death), acetone (the big ingredient in nail polish remover) and lead.

Reason #2: Smoking Sometimes Causes Gingival Recession

Gingival recession, which is more commonly referred to as receding gums, can be a serious problem. This is often caused by smoking. When gum recession occurs, the roots of the tooth are exposed. Not only is this upsetting from an aesthetic perspective, but receding gums also put you at an increased risk for root and tooth decay.

When you first notice gum recession, make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible. Although smoking is a common cause, poor dental hygiene and aggressive brushing can also cause receding gums. Treating the gingival recession may involve quitting smoking and addressing other bad oral care habits.

Reason #3: Smoking Makes Your Breath Foul

The apt, colloquial term for bad breath among smokers is Smoker's Breath. Nobody wants to walk around with bad breath. This can lead to negative consequences in nearly every area of your life.

Halitosis, the official term for having consistently stinky breath, happens for a variety of reasons. For one thing, smoke particles are left behind in the lungs and throat. Tobacco use can also dry out your palate, which can contribute to a thriving bacteria environment in your mouth. The unpleasant smell can linger, especially if you smoke multiple times per day.

Reason #4: Smoking Often Contributes to Gum Disease

Gum disease, often called periodontal disease, is an infection that can lead to tooth loss if you don't treat the condition. Gum disease is referred to as gingivitis in its early stages, and it's common among smokers. That's partly because bacteria quickly builds up on the teeth and gums of smokers.

Gum disease is also common among smokers because smoking often compromises the immune system. Also, since the body will have a harder time fighting off infections when you smoke, fighting the disease is hard. Unless you quit smoking, healing from gum disease is difficult even if you follow a treatment plan.

Reason #5: Smoking Can Decrease Your Motivation

Smoking can cause so many health issues that it can cause you to feel less motivated to sustain daily dental care habits essential for healthy teeth and gums. If you find yourself shrugging off brushing your teeth because you feel you've already damaged your teeth, that's a big red flag.

You are not helpless in the fight against smoking. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends making a quit plan. Medication and counseling have proved to be effective tools to help you quit smoking. In addition, make an appointment today with P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S. for a dental exam to start taking better care of your oral health.

Temporomandibular Disorders Occur in Kids and Adolescents

Fri, 20 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) that connect the lower jawbone to the skull are what allow the jaw to move up and down and from side to side. If anything goes wrong with these joints, it can be hard to bite, chew, swallow, and talk. Although children of all ages can suffer TMJ disorders, teen girls are the ones most often affected.

Since the temporomandibular joint, as well as the muscles and tendons surrounding it, continue to develop throughout the childhood and teen years, symptoms of TMJ can worsen as your child grows. Consequently, your child will need prompt treatment before more serious damage occurs.

TMJ Symptoms Your Child May Suffer

Although temporomandibular disorders (TMD) aren't as common among children as they are among adults, kids suffer the same symptoms. Yet it isn't always easy for a dentist to diagnose TMD since many of the symptoms mimic those of other health conditions — like chronic sinusitis and seasonal allergies — that children frequently suffer.

When the temporomandibular joints don't move the way they're supposed to, your child can experience jaw pain, facial pain, earaches, sensitive teeth, and jaws that pop, click, or lock in the open or shut position. The symptoms of temporomandibular disorder may lead to other problems, such as poor diet and difficulty sleeping, both of which can negatively impact your child's overall health.

Because stiffness and/or pain in the jaw muscles can make chewing difficult, your child may not get enough nutrients, especially if he or she avoids eating certain foods. Pain can also keep your child awake at night, making him or her more tired and even more sensitive to pain.

Factors That Contribute to Temporomandibular Disorder

A number of different factors can cause TMJ pain in children. Facial trauma, injury to the jaw, stress, and misaligned teeth are primary culprits. However, habits like teeth grinding, jaw clenching, and gum or fingernail chewing can cause TMJ symptoms because the constant biting puts force on the joint.

A healthy temporomandibular joint slides to prevent too much wear and tear in one area of the joint space. But if your child has a habit of grinding or clenching his or her teeth, the action can irritate the cartilage lining the joint.

Chewing gum is another habit that can cause TMJ pain, especially if your child tends to chew gum on only one side. This puts pressure and too much wear on the joint on that side of the mouth.

As a response to anxiety and stress, a child may tighten and clench his or her jaw or grind his or her teeth while sleeping or when awake. Continuation of this habit over time can change the alignment of the teeth and lead to bite problems. Jaw clenching and teeth grinding can also move a disc in the joint out of place.

Treatments Your Child's Dentist May Recommend

Depending on the severity of symptoms, your child's dentist may prescribe medication to relax stiff jaw muscles and relieve pain. If your child has a misaligned bite, he or she may need braces to reposition and align the teeth.When jaw clenching or teeth grinding is a problem, wearing a dental splint at night can help prevent premature wear on the teeth.

For a more mild case of TMD, resting the jaw for a few days may be all that's needed to improve symptoms. To relieve pain, apply an ice pack or moist heat pack to the side of your child's face that hurts. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen also help reduce mild TMJ pain and inflammation.

If your child complains of pain when chewing, swallowing, or talking, contact P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S. , to have him or her evaluated for a temporomandibular disorder. Early diagnosis and treatment help prevent more damage to the temporomandibular joints and teeth.

What's Causing Your Bad Breath?

Wed, 23 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Chronic halitosis, better known as bad breath, is irritating and often embarrassing. Even though chewing gum or eating a mint can take care of the symptoms, understanding the root cause of your not-so-fresh breath problem is the first step to eliminating this often uncomfortable issue.

Bad breath is extremely common. Over half of all adults face chronic halitosis at some point in their lives. In some cases, the solution to this dental dilemma is as simple as stepping up your oral hygiene routine. But that doesn't mean a quick brush every now and then will keep your mouth fresh 100 percent of the time.

What do you need to know about chronic halitosis? Take a look at some of the most common culprits behind this condition and what you can do about them.

Poor Oral Hygiene

For most patients, halitosis comes from the mouth itself. Along with infections, poor oral hygiene is one of the main factors that results in bad breath.

To maintain minimum healthy mouth standards, everyone should brush at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Keep in mind, some dental patients have other issues that may require a higher degree of oral hygiene (such as denture care or healing from periodontal disease). If the necessary standard isn't met, it could result in bad breath.

Without adequate brushing (and flossing), plaque can form. This bacterial film can cause gum disease or cavities if left untreated. Fortunately, regular brushing, flossing, and preventative dental visits can minimize the risk of plaque formation.

Infection Issues

Again, bacterial buildup (in the form of plaque) is a common cause of bad breath. But this isn't the only reason behind infection-related halitosis. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that can result in an unpleasant oral odor. Treating this condition is absolutely necessary — and not only to treat bad breath.

Untreated gum disease can cause pain, other dental issues (such as tooth loss), or systemic health conditions that affect other areas of the body, such as the heart.

Along with infections of the mouth, bad breath can come from nasal, sinus, or other upper respiratory infections. Tonsillitis and even strep throat can also result in bad breath. Brush as you might, overdoing it with oral care won't help these causes. You need to clear the infection before the smell will go away. Keep in mind, while you're caring for the infection, you still need to maintain proper brushing and flossing routines.

Stomach Situations

Some halitosis causes come from deep below the mouth. Gastrointestinal issues can result in bad breath too. Infection with Helicobacter pylori is a possible cause of halitosis. Infection with this gastric bacterium is common in many areas of the world and may go completely unnoticed.

If you've traveled out of the country, have been close to someone who has recently traveled out of the country, or have other symptoms (such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, frequent burping, or abdominal burning), visit a doctor for testing and treatment.

Other gastric issues that can result in bad breath include stomach ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Like with a potential bacterial infection, a doctor's diagnosis is needed for a complete treatment. It's likely that halitosis symptoms will subside after treatment of the stomach issue.

Dry Mouth

Normal saliva production serves a major purpose in your mouth. It washes away leftover debris (such as food particles) and can help keep an overgrowth of bacteria at bay. Without enough saliva, you might start smelling a foul odor. This comes from the food/debris that's stuck in-between teeth or on the gum line, as well as from the flourishing bacteria.

Your dentist can provide a treatment for dry mouth. This may include using a special toothpaste or mouthwash. In some cases, the cause is medical or comes from use of a specific medication. If you have this type of dry mouth, your doctor may be able to help.

Do you need a professional evaluation of your halitosis issue? Contact P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S. , for more information.

3 Cosmetic Dental Services You Should Consider for Summer

Fri, 23 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Summertime is all about kicking back, relaxing with your friends, and smiling for a few great photos. Unfortunately, if you don't feel confident about your teeth, it could impact your ability to enjoy the next get-together you are invited to. Here are three cosmetic dental services you should consider before summer hits and why you won't regret the decision to talk with your dentist.

1. Orthodontic Care

If your teeth are gapped or crooked, your smile might look less sophisticated than you want it to be, which can disrupt your confidence. Fortunately, orthodontic care for adults is more convenient and streamlined than ever before, allowing patients to correct long-term issues faster and more comfortably than in years past.

By using 3D imaging technology, dentists can take digital impressions of your teeth, which helps them to design customized orthodontic aligners that are nearly invisible to the naked eye. Many modern aligners are also removable, making it easier to eat during the day and brush your teeth effectively at night, so your orthodontic care doesn't interfere with your daily routine.

There have even been advances in traditional metal braces, with more and more dentists using thermal wires designed to soften when exposed to cooler temperatures, allowing patients to temporarily relieve orthodontic pain.

Although orthodontic care is considered by some to be a cosmetic procedure, it also helps to prevent dental problems, since teeth that sit in alignment are less likely to develop decay, dental fractures, and uneven wear. By straightening your teeth before summer comes, you might be able to enjoy a healthier check-up in the fall.

2. Teeth Whitening

As time marches on, your teeth can develop severe staining from foods, drinks, old amalgam dental fillings, and even dental decay. Fortunately, dentists can whisk away even severe stains with teeth whitening.

During teeth whitening, dentists apply special carbamide peroxide gels to the teeth, which spark a chemical reaction within the dental enamel. During this reaction, small tubules are released from the pores of dental enamel, allowing whitening agents to penetrate deeper into the tooth, lightening intrinsic stains.

In addition to allowing whitening agents to lighten the surfaces and interiors of teeth, dentists can also use special polishing compounds to remove extrinsic staining and tartar remnants, creating a smoother, whiter tooth surface.

These days, dentists can either create customized whitening trays for patients to wear at home, or complete whitening chair side, giving patients the opportunity to customize their care. Some dentists also offer special tooth whitening treatments that are activated by UV light that can lighten teeth several shades in a single visit.

If you are interested in whitening your teeth, keep in mind that there are a few side effects to removing stains. When whitening gel moves through the enamel to whiten underlying dentin, it increases the blood flow inside of the tooth, resulting in temporary sensitivity. However, dentists can alleviate sensitivity by prescribing certain toothpastes or using anti-sensitivity varnishes before treatment.

3. Dental Bonding

Chipped, cracked, or mottled teeth can make your friends wonder what happened to your smile, but with modern dental bonding, your smile can look as good as new before that next barbecue. Dental bonding agents are made from ceramic compounds suspended in special resins that bond to the dental enamel, making it easy for dentists to rebuild your teeth.

Composite resins are made in a variety of different shades and opacity strengths and can be used to correct chips, gaps, or improperly shaped teeth. The best part about dental bonding is that restorations are cured on-site and typically don't require an anesthetic.

Cosmetic dentistry is the ultimate combination of science and art, which is why you shouldn't trust your smile to just anyone. Our dentist, P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S., focuses on helping each and every patient enjoy the kind of personalized, state-of-the-art care his clients have come to expect. To start your journey towards a more beautiful smile, give our office a call today.

Don't Make These Common Dental Care Blunders

Tue, 30 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Healthy teeth and gums require a commitment to healthy, daily oral health care habits. In the rush to take the best possible care of their teeth, some people get carried away and ultimately make bad choices that have a negative impact on their short-term or long-term dental health. Make careful choices and avoid these common dental care blunders.

Stop! Don't Think That It's Okay to Pop Your Own Dental Abscess

Partly because the rise of YouTube videos with individuals popping their own zits and dental abscesses, some people think it's safe to try to pop abscesses on their own. However, that is a very bad idea. Dental abscesses form when your body is fighting an infection, and they may need medical treatment.

If you try to pop the abscess yourself, you may accidentally force the pus, debris, and bacteria further into your body, causing further problems. Also, if you try to pop an abscess, you may end up increasing the size of the abscess, or you could spread the infection. Go to your dentist for treatment if you have a dental abscess.

Stop! Don't Assume That All Is Well Because Your Teeth Are White

Many people assume that white teeth are healthy teeth, but that isn't always the case. This myth probably prevails because people may be more proactive about brushing and flossing when they're trying to make their teeth whiter. However, your teeth may be white while cavities form between teeth. Gum disease and other dental infections may be present even if teeth are white.

If you want to have your teeth professionally whitened, that's fine. Just don't expect it to lead to healthier teeth by itself. The American Dental Association recommends only choosing a teeth-bleaching system or product after talking to your dentist about it. A comprehensive treatment plan should be implemented under the dentist's supervision.

Stop! Don't Believe You Only Need to Worry About Cavities When You Feel Pain

Cavities are among the most common dental health problems. In fact, the majority of people have had a cavity. Many people assume they don't need to worry about cavities until they causes discomfort or pain. However, by the time a cavity causes pain, it's already advanced. Seek treatment long before the cavity gets to the advanced stage where it causes you pain.

When you're taking excellent care of your teeth and seeing a dentist regularly, most dental issues should be caught and treated well before they get to an advanced state. When you get a filling early on, you probably won't have to experience the physical pain of the cavity.

Stop! Don't Put an Aspirin Directly on a Problem Tooth

Some of the more popular home remedies for managing toothaches can be dangerous. Although you may have heard that you can put an aspirin directly in your mouth at the area where you feel pain, that's something you should never do. Aspirin isn't a topical medicine. If you try to place it directly on your gums, you may cause burning and additional pain.

If you want to take aspirin for a toothache, swallow it as recommended on the packaging. Only take medicine as recommended and never try to put a pill directly on your teeth or gums. Toothaches cause excruciating pain, but you shouldn't try homemade remedies without first clearing them with your dentist.

Finally, take care of your teeth today like your future depends on it. After all, you greatly increase your chances of having healthy teeth and gums in the future if you're proactive today. Part of taking good care of your oral health is seeing your dentist regularly. Contact P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S. for your next dental cleaning or check-up.

Signs of Gum Disease and How to Stop It From Progressing

Mon, 04 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

According to a study conducted in 2012, half of all Americans over the age of 30 have gum disease. Many people that have gum disease do not realize they have it, but you can often tell if you do or not by looking for the common signs that accompany this disease.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is not something that happens overnight; it is a disease that progresses. While it is called a disease, it is more like an infection that affects your gums. Gum disease starts at the gum lines by your teeth, but it works its way down through the rest of the gums as the disease progresses.

Gum disease develops from plaque left on teeth too long. Plaque is a material that feels sticky and builds up over time. You can remove it by brushing and flossing, and a hygienist removes it during cleanings. If you do not remove plaque, it becomes hard and turns into tartar.

The problem with leaving plaque on your teeth is that it contains bacteria. The bacteria can easily get into your gums, and this is how gum disease begins. If you leave it untreated, it will worsen. Eventually, this disease will eat away at your gums and could cause you to lose teeth. Your gums provide support to hold your teeth in place. Without enough gums, your teeth will fall out.

What Are the Signs of Gum Disease?

If you have gum disease, you will likely notice the following things:

Bleeding gums – When you brush or floss, do you see blood coming from your gums? If so, there is a good chance you have gum disease.
Sore, swollen, red gums – A common sign of gum disease involves redness and swelling of the gums. You might have this only in one area of your mouth or throughout your entire mouth.
Gaps between your teeth and gums – As gum disease progresses, you will see a space between your gums and teeth.

If you have gum disease, you may also suffer from bad breath all the time. Bad breath is typically present when your mouth contains a lot of plaque, but gum disease also causes bad breath simply because it is an infection.

What Can You Do to Prevent It From Progressing?

You need to treat gum disease as soon as you discover you have it. If you find it quickly, you probably have the initial stage of gum disease, which is called gingivitis. This initial state is much simpler to treat than advanced stages of gum disease are. When it advances, it is called periodontal disease.

With gingivitis, your dentist might suggest treating it through a procedure called scaling and root planing. During this procedure, your dentist would thoroughly clean your gum lines to remove all the built-up plaque found in these areas. This procedure can hurt, but it offers an effective treatment option for gingivitis.

If you have a more advanced stage of gum disease, your dentist might have to perform a gum grafting procedure. To do this, the dentist would first remove all the damaged gums from your mouth. Next, the dentist would add new tissue to your mouth to replace the bad tissue he or she removed. This is a major procedure you can avoid by treating gum disease quickly.

If you suspect that you have gum disease, you should visit a dentist soon. To schedule an appointment, contact P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S . We offer examinations, cleanings, and all types of dental services, and we can diagnose gum disease and help you find ways to stop it from worsening.

Essential Dos And Don'ts Of Preventive Dental Care For Kids

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Preventive dentistry is an essential part of long-term dental care for your children. It refers to all those things you and your kids do for their teeth each day, week, and year to keep them healthy. It also includes regular help from your dentist. Consider these dos and don'ts of preventative dental care to help your children take excellent care of their teeth.

Do Take Your Kids for Regular Cleanings

Take your children to the dentist for regular cleanings at least twice per year. Your dentist may recommend coming on a different time frame depending on the needs of your kids. Be sure to follow a regular schedule for cleanings and talk to your kids about the importance of regular dental exams and cleanings.

A professional dental cleaning can ultimately prevent cavities, which can help set children up for better dental health as they get permanent teeth. It can also brighten their smile. You may also save money when you take your children in for regular cleanings since preventive care is significantly less expensive than fillings for cavities and other more complex treatments.

Don't Give Your Kids Too Much Juice

Yes, fruit juices can be a part of a healthy, balanced diet for toddlers, school-aged children, and teens. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that it should not be given to children under the age of one. However, older kids can enjoy it. Just don't give them too much sugar-laden fruit juice.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, you should only put water in sippy cups. Sippy cups offer a great convenience for parents since they prevent spills, but it's important to keep sugary drinks out of them. Because sipping on sugar-filled drinks over a long period of time exposes the teeth to a greater risk of decay, water is a wiser alternative.

Do Instruct Your Kids to Brush Their Teeth Twice Daily in the Right Way

Encourage your little ones to embrace a comprehensive daily dental care routine. You may even choose to follow your own oral health care routine when they do, so it becomes a family affair. The foundation of a good daily dental care plan is properly brushing one's teeth twice each day.

Ensure that your children brush their teeth two times every day. You may choose to have them brush first thing in the morning and just before bedtime. Choose times that fit in well with your family's schedule. When brushing becomes a regular habit, it will be easier to follow. The key is to make it as simple as easy as possible for your children to establish and maintain good habits.

Supervise your children when they are brushing their teeth, too. Mouth Healthy by the American Dental Association advises that one should hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums when brushing. Also, be sure that kids use a soft-bristle toothbrush and move the toothbrush over their teeth with short strokes.

Don't Rely on Brushing Alone

Yes, it is extremely important for your children to brush their teeth twice each day, but that cannot be the only thing they do for their teeth. It's not enough. You also need to accentuate the importance of flossing and swishing with kid-friendly mouthwash. If in doubt, ask your dentist for recommendations for mouthwashes that will suit the unique needs of your children.

Supervise your children each day while they floss their teeth. The American Dental Hygienists' Association recommends that floss be held between the thumbs and index fingers when flossing. Show children how to guide floss gently between teeth in a zig-zag pattern. Ensure that they slide floss up and down across the surface of each tooth.

Finally, keep in mind that your dentist serves as a great ally in protecting your kids' dental health. After all, important parts of preventive care happen at the dentist's office. If you are seeking a dentist for you kids in the Goldsboro area, P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S. offers comprehensive oral health care services for every member of your family.

Did a Dental Implant Literally Leave a Bad Taste Inside Your Mouth? You May Have an Infection

Mon, 24 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Any kind of surgery has the potential for a complication to occur. This is true with oral surgery procedures like having dental implants installed. One complication to be aware of is how an infection can cause dental implants to fail. Be aware of these symptoms and treatments to deal with an infection.

Infection Signs

You will actually be able to tell you have an infected dental implant by the smell or taste in your mouth. It helps to pay close attention to the implant immediately after the procedure and take note if either if these two things are occurring. If you do notice a smell or odd taste, thoroughly brush and floss your teeth to make sure that the odor or smell is not caused by any food that is stuck in your mouth.

An infection can also be identified by looking at your gums. Look for any redness or swelling that has been getting worse over time. While swelling is normal to have immediately after the procedure, the peak of the swelling should occur within 48 hours. The swelling should only get better after that, not worse.

In addition, look out for problems such as a loose implant, throbbing or discomfort around your implant, a dull ache, fever, or bleeding around your implant when brushing.

Infection Treatments

Treating an infected dental implant will vary based on how soon the infection occurs.

Within 2 weeks

An infection within 2 weeks of your surgery is common and easy to treat. Your dentist will prescribe you an antibiotic that should treat the infection and prevent it from spreading further. You may also be prescribed a mouth rinse that will help keep the area clean.

Not treating an infection at this stage runs the risk of having it spread further into your body, so be sure to have this complication looked at immediately.

After 2 Weeks

Your infected implant will be more difficult to fix as time has progressed since your surgery. Ignoring the problem could cause your dentist implant to fail in some situations.

Your dentist may still want to fight the infection using an antibiotic. Once the infection goes away, adjustments can be made to the crown to prevent bacteria from getting into the implant. For instance, a small gap located between the titanium post and the crown can be a breeding ground for bacteria. The crown will need to be removed, the area cleaned, and the crown put back on the implant with adjustments made to fix the gap.

If the infection is located where the post meets the jawbone, a dentist may have to remove the titanium post in order to treat your infection. This sort of infection also causes a lot of pain and various health complications.

Implant Care

The best way to prevent an infection from happening to your dental implant is to take good care of your teeth. While a dental implant is a fake tooth, it still needs to be cared for as if it is a real tooth. Continue flossing, brushing, and using mouth rinses to keep everything clean.

Pay special attention to the area where the implant comes in contact with your gums. While your implant is fine initially, receding gums could cause a gap to form where bacteria can grow. Be sure to brush along the gum line to agitate the gums and clean out bacteria that could be hiding underneath.

Catching problems early on is key to avoiding an infection. P A Daniel Jr DDS specializes in dental implants, and can assist you with any concerns related to infections or post-surgery care.

Tooth Decay Causes

Sat, 20 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Ever wonder how cavities start? We’ve always heard to brush our teeth and not have too much sugar, but is there more to tooth decay than that? We’re glad you want information and P.A. Daniel, Jr. D.D.S., is happy to educate our clients to gain better dental health!

Cavities are formed at a section of the tooth decays, forming craters and crevices where food particles, bacteria, and plaque reside.

Tooth decay is caused by the following factors:

Poor oral hygiene caused by lack of or improper brushing.
Enamel Issues. Teeth with enamel issues or deep crevices are prone to cavities.
Improper nutrition from an unhealthy diet.
Sugary foods…well, Mom was correct!
Acidic foods quickly work to wear away enamel.
Dry mouth issues, saliva inhibits the growth of plaque.
Tooth grinding, which strips away tooth enamel.
Genetics
Age
Not visiting the dentist!

Are you guilty of any of these behaviors? We all are to some degree but if we make an effort to be aware of these areas and work to make healthy decisions, we can prevent tooth decay from progressing. Contact our office to make an appointment today!

Teaching Kids About Dental Health

Fri, 24 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Helping your kids learn how to take care of their teeth is one of the most important things you can do as a parent, and it can have a lasting effect on their future health. Here are three ways you can teach your kids about good dental health.

Give Kids Some Control

Giving little ones some control when it comes to taking care of their teeth such as choosing their toothbrush or creating a special song you sing while they brush, can help give them a sense of control and autonomy when it comes to their dental health.

Lead by Example

Kids love to copy others, especially their parents. For once, copying can come in handy when it’s time to take care of their teeth. Make brushing and flossing a family activity so that you can show them how it’s done and help correct them if they need it.

Regular Checkups

Visiting the dentist regularly can help keep your child’s dental health on track and catch cavities or other problems before they get worse. Regular checkups can also help kids to be more comfortable seeing the dentist in the future.

You can set your child up for a lifetime of healthy teeth when you stress the importance of dental health early on. To learn more about how to teach your kids about dental health, call P.A. Daniel Jr. DDS at 919-734-4716.

What to Expect When Getting a Dental Crown

Tue, 24 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Dental crowns are needed for a variety of reasons. Sometimes they are essential for strengthening the tooth and other times they serve as a cosmetic fix. Regardless of why you need one, there are certain things you can expect during the actual procedure.

First Appointment

Most of the time, crowns require two visits to the dentist’s office. In the first visit, the dentist will make sure a crown is right for you. If it is, then the affected tooth will be numbed and filed down. Enamel needs to be removed so that the crown is able to rest comfortably on top. An impression is taken of the tooth. After that, you are given a temporary crown to wear until your permanent one is created.

Second Appointment

For the second visit, your temporary crown will be removed. The dentist will put the permanent crown into place. Your bite will be checked just to make sure it is a good fit. You will be given aftercare instructions on how to care for your new dental crown for the immediate future.

Dental crowns are common restorations that many people have gotten over the years, so you have absolutely nothing to worry about. To learn more about crowns, call P.A. Daniel Jr. DDS at 919-734-4716.

How to Maintain Healthy Gums

Tue, 22 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Proper oral care includes more than daily brushing. While avoiding cavities and discolored teeth are important, caring for your gums can be just as vital for the health of your mouth. Here are a few ways you can keep your gums healthy and avoid issues that might lead to permanent tooth loss.

Floss Daily

You can avoid gum disease by flossing at least once a day. Flossing cleans between the teeth and removes plaque, which contains harmful bacteria that brushing doesn’t always reach. Ask your dentist to show you the most effective ways to floss.

Avoid Tobacco

Studies performed have shown that smoking is heavily linked to the development of gum disease. It may also cause gingivitis to progress faster and result in a variety of oral problems:

Loose teeth
Gum tumors
Permanent tooth loss

Avoiding smoking and chewing tobacco can vastly improve the health of your gums.

Choose the Right Toothbrush

Not all toothbrushes may be right for your gums. Some might have bristles that are too stiff and could cause bleeding. Consider using an electric toothbrush, which may be more effective in battling the plaque that causes gingivitis.

Taking good care of your gums can lead to a lifetime of good oral health. For more information about how to maintain healthy gums, call P.A. Daniel Jr. DDS at 919-734-4716.

Regular Dental Exams are Predictive and Preventive

Wed, 28 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Many people underestimate the benefits of good oral health and the importance of regular dental exams . The mouth is the first point of contact for health and nutrition. As such, getting regular exams is a must. It is recommended to visit a dentist every six months for these reasons.

A Beautiful Smile

The power of a good healthy smile cannot be underestimated. When people feel like their teeth are in good shaped, they smile more. Research has shown that not only does a smile increase one’s confidence, but it also is a mood enhancer, creating a cyclical effect of smiling even more.

Good Oral Health

Getting regular checkups at the dentist helps to detect the appearance of a host of potential issues, including gum disease or oral cancer. A dentist doesn’t just examine teeth, but will also feel along the face, jaw and lymph nodes to check for abnormalities.

Good Overall Health

There is a definite link between good oral health and good overall health. Whether it is because the mouth can signal other issues or people who practice good oral health tend to practice other health-saving tips, getting regular exams is part of full body wellness.

Dental exams are both predictive and preventative measures. Most regular checkups are essential to maintaining healthy teeth and bodies. For more on good oral health, call P.A. Daniel Jr. DDS at 919-734-4716.

Let Dental Implants Bring Back Your Smile

Sat, 23 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Has a crooked tooth, unsightly spacing or a chipped tooth left you hiding from the camera at family gatherings and nights out with your friends? If this sounds like you, take a look at the benefits dental implants can bring you.

Jaw and Tooth Protection

If you are missing one or several teeth, did you know that your jawbone is slowly deteriorating? Once a tooth has left your mouth, your jawbone stops growing and loses its strength. Fortunately, dental implants stimulate the growth of new bone and reinforce the surrounding bone. Dental implants also prevent other teeth from shifting around your mouth or crowding your jaw line.

Confident and Secure Smile

Dental implants also provide you with a stable smile that will not bring you worry when eating your favorite foods or posing for the camera. While dentures can easily slip out of your mouth during dining or chatting with friends, an implant is fully stable. Other benefits of implants include:

Long lasting solution
Maintain facial structure
No cleaning of dentures
Bright smiles without wires

While dental implants can be a bit more expensive and require some surgical time, they are a secure, long-term answer for maintaining a healthy, bright and confident smile. To learn more about dental implants, call P.A. Daniel Jr. DDS at 919-734-4716.

Three Benefits of Whitening Your Teeth

Wed, 25 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Whitening your teeth is now safer and more affordable than ever. Teeth whitening is one of the easiest ways to transform your smile, and you can see results after just one treatment. Here are just a few of the benefits of whitening your teeth.

Increased Confidence

Having white teeth brightens your smile and gives you an added boost of confidence. Your smile is one of the first things that people notice when they meet you, so a bright, white smile gives you confidence that can help you in your romantic and professional life. You won’t have to worry about the coffee stains on your teeth when you’re giving that big business presentation or laughing at a joke on a blind date.

Business Success

Increased confidence is just one way that whitening your teeth can help you succeed in your career. A survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry showed that a majority of adults feel that an unattractive smile can hurt their chances for professional success.

More Youthful Appearance

When your teeth first come in, they are pearly white. Over time, things like smoking, coffee and age cause your teeth to become discolored. Whitening your teeth restores them to their youthful vibrancy, making you look younger in the process.

Whitening your teeth is a quick and easy way to look better and feel better that won’t make a huge dent in your bank account. What are you waiting for? Start researching teeth whitening options in your area by visiting P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S.