Ashland dentist | VA |

What are dental implants?

People often refer to a dental implant as a replacement tooth, but it is actually a metal post or appliance that replaces the patient's tooth root or roots. Once the artificial root or roots are in, replacement teeth are put in place and thus anchored firmly to the bone by the implant. The patient's new teeth look, feel and work just like natural teeth. There are several types of dental implants suited to various dental conditions.

What are the benefits of implants?

Dental implants are an alternative for:

• The patient who cannot function comfortably with conventional dentures.
• The patient who has lost teeth and wants to avoid removable partial dentures.
• The patient who needs a crown or fixed bridge but doesn't want to damage his or her adjacent healthy teeth.
• The person who wants to have the dental solution that is the closest to what Mother Nature created.

Absolutely not! Each person has a look they want for themselves and they have facial structure and skin tones that guide us in making individual selections that vary in size, shape, and color for each person.

Do I have to get my teeth capped to get rid of spaces between my front teeth?

In most cases capping to correct spaces isn't necessary. Today with beautiful, natural looking porcelain veneers (also called porcelain facings) we can easily make dramatic cosmetic changes to remove spaces, fix cracked teeth, do minor tooth straightening, and change the color of your teeth. In many instances, little or no tooth structure needs to be removed to create the smile of your dreams.

Is "tooth whitening" safe?

Bleaching procedures are safe and approved by the American Dental Association. Bleaching does not wear away any tooth structure or make a tooth more susceptible to staining. There are many different methods to whiten teeth. It is best to discuss these with a dental professional to find the best alternative for you.

Is gum surgery essential if I have periodontal (gum) disease?

We have found, many times, surgery is not necessary following a conservative course of periodontal treatment. This type of care typically includes a series of nonsurgical gum treatments. Even when surgery is required, it often is needed only in a few areas of the mouth and results can be greatly enhanced by nonsurgical preparation.

If periodontal disease is such a problem, why doesn't it hurt?

This is, unfortunately, a very good question. Periodontal problems can become quite serious and extremely advanced without any pain whatsoever. That is why it is so important to be attentive to the warning signs - bleeding gums when brushing and flossing, swollen gums, receded gums, teeth changing position, pus or swelling around gums - to name a few.

If my kids are getting fluoride in the water, do they need any other fluoride?

Fluoride works to strengthen the teeth in different ways. The fluoride in the water works primarily on the teeth while the form in the jaw before they erupt. The fluoride used at dental check ups works primarily on newly erupted adult teeth. The fluoride in toothpaste and home rinses also works well on areas of the teeth where decay may be starting. All fluoride helps make the teeth more resistant to decay.

What do I need to know about taking care of my baby's teeth?

Before a child has teeth, and later in areas of the mouth where there are no teeth, a gauze pad or infant washcloth should be used to wipe the gums. Do this after feedings and before bedtime. As the teeth appear they should be brushed with a soft bristled infant toothbrush. Continue this regimen until about 1-2 years old.

What causes bad breath?

Halitosis, "bad breath", can be caused by many different factors. Most people are aware of garlic and other spicy foods as a cause but it is much more complex than this. Sinus congestion or other infections can be a cause, as well as gum disease. It can also be caused if you are hungry due to the metabolic breakdown of stored energy sources in the lungs. If bad breath is a persistent problem, you should see your dentist to help find the cause or causes.

My seven year old son has a new tooth that has turned black. What's going on?

This is most likely due to the staining of the pellicle. The pellicle is a coating that can form on newly erupted teeth. This can discolor on its own or due to the patient's diet. It does no damage and is easily polished off.

My eight year old son's teeth are straight. Does that mean he won't need braces?

Perhaps, but not necessarily. Crooked teeth are just one problem that orthodontists evaluate and treat. More importantly, they evaluate and correct facial relationship and the way the teeth come together. Crooked teeth are often just a sympton of a greater problem.

I think my child has a cavity. Do I need to do anything about it since he/she will lose that tooth anyway?

Cavities in baby teeth, like adult teeth, get larger with time and can eventually infect the nerve of the tooth. In addition, as decay removes part of the tooth, the tooth doesn't take up as much room, and adjacent teeth will crowd into its space. This can alter normal jaw growth in a child.

Why does my child get cavities? She doesn't eat much candy or drink much soda?

There has been an increase in tooth decay in children. A lot of this has been due to an increased eating of processed foods. One common cause is breakfast cereals. A lot of cereals have high sugar content but this fact is better hidden now. Honey is a code word for sugar, so while Cheerios are ok, Honey Nut Cheerios are not. Also some have been renamed to better hide the sugar. Sugar Pops are now called Corn Pops and Sugar Smacks are now called Honey Smacks. These cereals can be particulary harmful for children as often times they are eaten as a dry snack and therefore sticks to the teeth a lot easier. The best thing is to read the list of ingredients and see how high sugar is listed.

I have a two year old son. Should he see a children's dentist?

Most family dentist today feel very comfortable treating children. It is also very important for the child to feel comfortable in the dental office setting. The dentist's demeanor can go far in helping the child get acclimated to this new setting. A friendly, unrushed atmosphere which allows the child to proceed at his or her own pace not only helps the child in gaining confidence and decreasing insecurities, but helps the child regard dental care as fun.

What do I need to do to take care of my child's teeth at home?

At ages 2-6 years old, the parent should continue brushing the child's teeth allowing the child to participate. Use only a pea size amount of toothpaste and begin flossing teeth that are touching. Children should begin brushing for themselves around age 8 and flossing around age 10. Both should be done with parental supervision.

When should I take my child to the dentist?

Usually between the ages of 31/2 and 4 years old. At this age, the child is more open to new experiences and can easily be introduced to the dental environment. If, however, a parent has any questions or problems the child should be taken to the dentist immediately. On the child's first visit emphasis is placed on showing the instruments to the child and getting acquainted with the dental setting. We find that this prevents the child from being afraid of the new noises and lights, but makes the visit fun. Balloons after the appointment also help a little.

Why have my teeth been sensitive to cold temperatures lately?

One of the more common reasons this happens is gum recession. Brushing vigorously or using a toothbrush with bristles too stiff can cause this. The brush forces the gum up, usually in the area of the upper back teeth or up the side of the tooth. This exposes the roots of the teeth to any extremes in temperature. Drinking sodas can also cause tooth sensitivity due to their high acid content. Any tooth exhibiting hot and cold sensitivity, should be evaluated to rule out other causes.

Does the new dental chewing gum do much?

Not really. A few years ago sugarless gum was claiming to be an alternative to brushing for removing plaque. It may be, but its not a good one. Studies show plaque was reduced by only 20% by chewing gum. The new "dental" chewing gums show the same reduction. While chewing these new gums may help a little, it is not an alternative to brushing.

I drink diet soda. Is that ok for my teeth?

Diet sodas are just as bad as regular sodas due to their acid content. The PH of any soda is about 3.2. Neutral PH is 7 and stomach acid is 2, so you can see it is about as corrosive as stomach acid. Also as bad are sport drinks, flavored waters, and certain Snapple like drinks. Safe bets are water, milk, and some natural juices.

The flavored waters are ok for your teeth aren't they?

Like sodas, the flavored waters are corrosive to your teeth due to their acid content. The waters are flavored with citric acid which is the same thing that gives the clear sodas their tartness. Essentially flavored waters are clear, noncarbonated diet sodas and should be used very sparingly. The sport drinks have similar acid levels and should also be used very sparingly.

I've heard neighbors talk about sealing their children's teeth. What is this and how long does it last?

The decrease in decay in children's teeth is primarily due to fluoridated water and sealants. Sealants are essentially a plastic coating placed in the biting surfaces of the back teeth. This coating smooths the fissures and grooves on the tooth making it easier to keep the tooth clean. They canlast indefinitley but may pop off and can be replaced.