Understanding and Preventing Bad Breath:

Bad breath, or halitosis, can be an uncomfortable issue. It often occurs due to microbial deposits on the back of the tongue, which can be reduced by simply brushing the tongue. Common causes of bad breath include:

• Reduced saliva flow during sleep
• Certain foods
• Poor oral hygiene
• Gum disease
• Dental issues
• Dry mouth
• Tobacco use
• Dieting
• Dehydration, hunger, missed meals
• Medical conditions

Prevent bad breath by:

• Practicing good oral hygiene (brushing, flossing, tongue cleaning)
• Regular dental check-ups
• Quitting tobacco
• Staying hydrated
• Using recommended mouthwash/rinses

Consult your dentist if bad breath persists, as they can identify and treat the cause or refer you to a physician if necessary.

Maintaining Good Oral Health:

Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, food debris, and saliva, is the root of dental issues, including tooth decay and gum disease. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental aids are crucial for control.

• Toothbrushing: Brush at least twice daily with a soft-bristle brush and ADA-approved toothpaste. Angle at 45 degrees to the gums, using a circular motion. Don’t forget your tongue! Electric toothbrushes work well too.
• Flossing: Daily flossing is essential for cleaning between teeth and under the gumline. Use about 12-16 inches of dental floss and gently curve it around each tooth.
• Rinsing: Rinse with water after brushing and after meals if unable to brush. Consult your dentist for suitable mouthwash options.”

Amalgam fillings, made with copper, silver, tin, zinc, and mercury, have been used safely for over a century. Reputable organizations, including the ADA and FDA, affirm their safety. Studies haven’t found links to health issues.

Mercury, while toxic at high levels, is inactive and safe in amalgam fillings. Allergies to these fillings are rare.

Alternative fillings like composite, porcelain, and gold are available. Discuss these options with your dentist for the best choice.

You should have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year, or as recommended by your dentist. These visits are crucial for preventing dental issues and maintaining your oral health. During these appointments, your dentist will:

• Review your medical history to understand your overall health and dental well-being.
• Examine diagnostic x-rays to detect decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.
• Screen for oral cancer in various areas of your mouth and throat.
• Evaluate gum health and check for signs of gum disease.
• Inspect all tooth surfaces for decay using special instruments.
• Examine existing dental restorations like fillings and crowns.
• Remove hardened plaque (tartar) from above and below the gum line.
• Eliminate plaque, a film of bacteria, debris, and saliva.
• Polish teeth to remove stains and remaining plaque.
• Offer oral hygiene recommendations and suggest dental aids.
• Discuss dietary habits and their impact on dental health.

Your dental exam and cleaning are more than cavity checks and teeth polishing. We’re dedicated to providing you with comprehensive care to ensure your oral health. Regular check-ups and cleanings are essential for your well-being.

Did you know that four out of five people have periodontal disease without realizing it? This condition often goes unnoticed in its early stages as it’s typically painless, unlike tooth decay. Regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are vital for early detection.

Periodontal disease begins with the presence of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, food debris, and saliva left on teeth and gums. These bacteria produce toxins that inflame gums and gradually erode bone. Proper and regular brushing and flossing prevent plaque buildup.

Several factors may increase the risk of periodontal disease:

• Smoking or tobacco use, which encourages plaque formation.
• Tooth or appliance issues like ill-fitting bridges, crowded teeth, or defective fillings.
• Certain medications that reduce saliva, making it easier for plaque to adhere.
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy, puberty, or with oral contraceptives.
• Systemic diseases like diabetes or HIV/AIDS.
• Genetics can also play a role, particularly for those with a family history of tooth loss.

Watch for signs and symptoms:

• Red or swollen gums, which should be neither.
• Bleeding gums, even during vigorous brushing or flossing.
• Persistent bad breath caused by oral bacteria.
• New spacing between teeth due to bone loss.
• Loose teeth resulting from bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers.
• Pus around teeth and gums indicates infection.
• Receding gums, indicating gum loss around a tooth.

Tenderness or discomfort due to plaque, calculus, or bacteria irritation.
Maintain good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits to reduce your risk of periodontal disease. Your oral health is worth it!

Using dental floss is essential because it helps remove plaque and food particles from between teeth, preventing cavities and gum disease.

How to floss properly:

• Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.
• Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion.
• Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and under the gumline.  Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth.

Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss.

Daily flossing will help you keep a healthy, beautiful smile for life!

Ideally, every 6 months to prevent plaque build-up and detect any issues early.

Most people feel little to no discomfort. Sensitivity can occur, but your dentist can make adjustments to ensure comfort.

Your dentist or hygienist will remove plaque and tartar, polish your teeth, and may floss and

Typically, it takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your oral hygiene and the time since your last cleaning.

Cleanings remove surface stains, leading to a brighter smile, but they’re not a substitute for professional whitening treatments.

They offer a wide range of services including cleanings, fillings, crowns, bridges, preventive care, and sometimes cosmetic procedures.

Look for qualifications, experience, positive reviews, and a comfortable office environment. A consultation can also help you decide.

It’s recommended to visit every 6 months for check-ups and cleanings to maintain oral health and catch any issues early.

A general dentist provides comprehensive dental care, while specialists focus on specific areas like orthodontics or oral surgery.

Yes, they can treat early stages of gum disease through cleanings and more advanced care if needed, sometimes referring to a specialist for severe cases.

It focuses on repairing or replacing damaged or missing teeth, restoring both function and appearance with treatments like fillings, crowns, bridges, porcelain veneers and implants.

It varies; simple fillings might take one visit, while more complex procedures like implants can take several months from start to finish.

Most procedures are performed with anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Your dentist will ensure you’re as comfortable as possible.

Many insurance plans partially cover restorative treatments. It’s best to check with your provider for specific coverage details.

Follow your dentist’s instructions, which typically include regular brushing, flossing, and follow-up visits to maintain oral health and the longevity of the restoration.

Costs vary widely by procedure and complexity. Whitening might start at a few hundred dollars, while veneers or crowns can be more.

Cosmetic dentists focus on aesthetic improvements, while general dentists provide comprehensive dental care, including health and function.

A cosmetic dentist improves the appearance of your teeth and smile. Services include whitening, veneers, crowns, and aligners to enhance aesthetics.

Generally, insurance doesn’t cover procedures purely for cosmetic reasons. However, some treatments with restorative benefits might be partially covered.

Look for experience, before-and-after photos of real patients, positive reviews, and a consultation to discuss your goals and options.

Costs vary widely by location and method, ranging from $300 to $800 for in-office treatments and $100 to $400 for at-home kits prescribed by a dentist.

Professional whitening is faster, more effective, and performed under dentist supervision. At-home kits are more gradual and can be done at your convenience but may be less potent.

Some people experience temporary sensitivity after whitening treatments. Your dentist can recommend products to minimize discomfort.

Results from professional whitening can often be seen immediately after one treatment, while at-home treatments may take a few weeks to show significant changes.

Results can last from several months to three years, but it varies based on diet, oral hygiene, and lifestyle habits.

The cost can vary widely, typically ranging from $800 to $1,500 per crown, depending on materials used and geographic location. Some dental insurances may cover part of the cost.

With proper care, dental crowns can last between 5 to 15 years, sometimes longer, depending on the material and oral hygiene practices.

Temporary crowns are used for a short period while waiting for the permanent crown to be made. They’re not as strong as permanent crowns.

You shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure due to anesthesia. Some mild sensitivity or discomfort may occur after the anesthesia wears off.

No, crowns cannot be whitened. It’s important to match the crown color to your natural teeth before placement.

The cost varies, but generally ranges from $925 to $2,500 per tooth, depending on the complexity and the dentist’s location. Not typically covered by insurance.

Veneers typically last between 10 to 15 years with proper care, after which they may need to be replaced.

Veneers are considered a permanent treatment because your dentist removes a small amount of enamel to fit them. They can’t be removed once placed.

Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining compared to natural teeth, but maintaining good oral hygiene is still important.

Brush, floss, and visit your dentist regularly. Avoid biting hard objects to prevent chipping.

Costs vary widely but can range from $1,500 to $6,000 per implant, not including the crown, depending on the location and specific patient needs. Some insurances may cover part of the cost.

Insurance coverage for dental implants varies, so it’s essential to consult your insurance provider for specific details.

The procedure is typically not painful, as local anesthesia is used to numb the area. Some patients may experience mild discomfort afterward, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. The crown attached to the implant typically lasts 10-15 years before it may need replacement due to wear.

The entire dental implant process may take several months, including healing time, but it ensures lasting results. Consequently, expect 3 to 4 office visits to complete the process.

The entire dental implant process may take several months, including healing time, but it ensures lasting results. Consequently, expect 3 to 4 office visits to complete the process.

Most of the time yes, you will be awake during the dental implant procedure, but local anesthesia ensures you won’t feel pain.

The cost varies, but complete dentures can range from $600 to $2,500 for a set, while partials may cost between $300 to $1,500, depending on materials and complexity. Some dental insurances cover a portion of the cost.

With proper care, dentures can last between 5 to 7 years before they may need to be replaced due to wear or fit changes.

There’s an adjustment period, but most people adapt quickly and can eat normally. Starting with soft foods and practicing can help.

Clean them daily with a soft brush and denture cleaner, soak them overnight in a denture solution, and handle them carefully to avoid damage.

The latest advancements in dentures include implant-supported dentures and digital dentures. Implant-supported dentures provide a more stable and comfortable fit by anchoring to dental implants placed in the jawbone.

Digital dentures are created using advanced CAD/CAM technology, ensuring a precise fit and faster production times. Both options offer improved comfort, functionality, and appearance compared to traditional dentures.

Implant dentures, constructed using materials like acrylic or porcelain, provide a dependable solution for restoring missing teeth. They offer the stability of dental implants, replicating natural tooth roots, and boast impressive durability compared to traditional dentures.

The cost of Invisalign can vary widely, generally ranging from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the specifics of your treatment plan. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost.

Treatment time varies but typically ranges from 12 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the case and how consistently the aligners are worn.

No, you should remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water to avoid damaging them.

Some people may notice a slight lisp initially, but most adapt quickly and speak normally within a few days.

For best results, wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours a day, only removing them to eat, brush, and floss.

Laser dentistry can be used for a variety of treatments, including gum reshaping, cavity detection, filling preparation, bacterial reduction during root canals, and even teeth whitening.

Costs can vary depending on the procedure, but laser treatments may be comparable to or slightly higher than traditional methods. Some insurance plans may cover part of the cost.

Many patients find laser dentistry less painful than traditional methods. It often reduces the need for anesthesia and minimizes bleeding and swelling.

When performed by a trained professional, laser dentistry is extremely safe. It offers precise treatment with less damage to surrounding tissues.

Benefits include less discomfort, faster healing times, reduced risk of infection, and often, the ability to preserve more of the natural tooth.

Costs vary based on treatment type and severity of the disorder. Oral appliances may range from $200 to $1,000, with other treatments varying widely. Insurance may cover some aspects of therapy.

TMJ therapy may include oral appliances (splints or night guards), physical therapy, medications for pain and inflammation, and in some cases, dental corrections or surgery.

The effectiveness and duration of TMJ therapy can vary; some patients experience relief within weeks, while others may need a few months of treatment.

Most TMJ treatments are not painful and are designed to relieve pain. Some discomfort may be felt when starting treatment or adjusting to an oral appliance.

While some cases of TMJ disorder can be resolved with treatment, others may require ongoing management to keep symptoms at bay.

Any situation causing severe pain, bleeding, or trauma to the teeth or gums, like a knocked-out tooth, severe infection, or broken tooth, is an emergency.

No, time is crucial. Try to see your dentist immediately, ideally within an hour, to increase the chance of saving the tooth.

Rinse your mouth with warm water, gently use dental floss to remove any trapped food, and contact your dentist. Avoid applying aspirin directly to the gum.

Save any pieces. Rinse your mouth and the fragments with warm water. If there’s bleeding, apply gauze, and use a cold compress to reduce swelling. See your dentist as soon as possible.

Keep the crown or filling if you find it. For a lost filling, use sugar-free gum or dental cement as a temporary fix. If a crown falls out, dental cement can reattach it temporarily. See your dentist quickly.

Many dentists have an emergency contact number for after-hours. If not, visit the emergency room for immediate care, especially if the situation is severe.

1 in 5 adults have mild OSA
1 in 15 have moderate to severe OSA
9% of middle-aged women and 25% of middle-aged men suffer from OSA

Snoring is not merely a loud and bothersome noise; it can serve as an important indicator of a Sleep Breathing Disorder (SBD) that should not be taken lightly. It is estimated that around 42 million Americans are affected by SBDs.

One of the most prevalent types of SBD is Obstructive Sleep Apnea, a medical condition in which the tongue and soft tissues obstruct the airway, preventing proper airflow into the lungs. Recognizing the potential seriousness of SBDs is crucial for prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

• Mild OSA is found in 70% of heart attack patients.
• Sleep Apnea affects 86% of obese individuals with type 2 Diabetes.
• Hypertension is present in 43% of patients with mild OSA.
• Sleep Apnea is experienced by 48% of individuals with type 2 Diabetes.
• Drowsy driving causes around 100,000 car accidents annually.
• Individuals with Sleep Apnea are at a 4 times higher risk of stroke.
• Untreated Sleep Apnea can lead to memory problems, weight gain, impotence, and headaches.
• Over 20 years, untreated OSA can reduce survivability by 30% or more.
• Drowsy driving results in 100,000 car accidents, 40,000 injuries, and 1,550 deaths yearly.
• Approximately 38,000 deaths each year are associated with Sleep Apnea-related cardiovascular problems, including high blood pressure, hypertension, and stroke.

A sleep doctor would say that sleep apnea usually can’t be fully cured, especially for severe cases. It’s something people manage over time, not get rid of completely.

The Vivos treatment is a newer way to help with sleep apnea. It’s not like the CPAP machine that you use every night. Instead, Vivos works on changing the shape of your mouth and airway slowly. This can make your sleep apnea better or even go away for some people.

It’s a hopeful option for those looking for something other than nightly machines or surgery, offering a chance at long-lasting improvement.

Many insurance plans cover sleep apnea treatment, including CPAP and oral appliances, but coverage can vary. Check with your provider.

Our Dentist is not just your regular dentists—he is highly qualified and ready to take on the challenge of multidisciplinary care for patients with sleep-related breathing disorders. They hold a current dental licenses, but that’s not all! They have also received special training in Airway and Dental Sleep Medicine.

So rest assured, you’re in great hands with our experienced team of dental sleep medicine experts. Let’s get started on your journey to better sleep and improved breathing!

It’s a method using a special oral appliance worn for 12-16 hours, mostly at night, to naturally widen your mouth’s arches and open up your airway for better breathing and sleep. In some cases, Vivos has shown to resolve sleep apnea symptoms.

While “cure” is a strong word, Vivos aims to provide a long-term solution by addressing the structural causes of sleep apnea, potentially reducing or eliminating the need for further treatment.

The Vivos treatment is suitable for individuals with mild, moderate, and, following recent FDA clearance, even severe sleep apnea.

Yes, Vivos can be effective for children with sleep apnea or breathing issues, helping to guide their dental and airway development early on.

Unlike CPAP, which requires nightly use indefinitely, or surgery, which can be invasive, Vivos is a more natural, non-invasive approach aiming for a permanent improvement in airway structure.

Typically, it lasts between 12 to 24 months, but the exact duration can vary depending on the individual’s situation.

For adults about 3-4 hours during the day and while sleeping overnight.

For children about 1-2 hours during the day and while sleeping overnight, these awesome appliances work their magic. They’re like little guides, helping with the natural growth and development of your child’s mouth, jaws, and airways. They do an incredible job of counteracting the negative impacts of modern life on their oral health. It’s all about promoting a healthy future!