Anthony Alfonso

Are Dental Veneers Permanent?

Permanence is one of the questions people ask when thinking about improving or restoring their smile with dental veneers. The short answer to this question is “sometimes.” During the installation of veneers, dentists often remove a portion of enamel.

They do this to create room for the device so that it does not make the person’s teeth visibly larger than usual. However, there are ultra-thin veneers called Lumineers that do not require the removal of enamel. This is often a good option for those who are not excited about the prospect of having a small portion of enamel filed off.

Understanding dental veneers

Veneers are thin, tooth-shaped covers that are attached to the front part of teeth. They instantly improve the appearance of the teeth they are covering, hiding issues like discoloration, spaces or alignment issues.

Each veneer is customized for the patient, and they are typically made from materials like composite resins, porcelain and ceramics and made to look just like real teeth. Veneers are a versatile solution that can be used by dentists to address a variety of dental issues.

The interesting history of veneers

While it is easy to classify veneers as some modern innovation, these devices have actually been used for over a century. They were invented by Dr. Charles Pincus, a famous dentist who treated many celebrities.

He would create tooth-shaped shells that he temporarily attached to his client’s teeth before movie shoots. Dr. Pincus’ tooth covers are responsible for many of the stunning smiles that have now become a trademark of Hollywood celebrities.

The technology was perfected by others who came afterward, and veneers are now permanently attached to people’s teeth all over the world. Now, anyone can have the type of smile that was once reserved for only the rich and famous. Nowadays, veneers are often combined with other cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening to ensure patients have smiles they can be proud of.

Dental veneers can be used to deal with issues like:

Cracked teeth
Chipped teeth
Minor alignment issues
Severe stains and discoloration
Gaps

The best candidates for veneers are typically people who have good oral hygiene habits, healthy teeth and gums, have sufficient amounts of enamel and clear goals.

Figuring out if dental veneers are the best option

Patients need to have good oral health to qualify for veneers. People with conditions like gum disease, bruxism and tooth decay typically are not eligible. The dentist will treat any underlying issue before proceeding with the installation of veneers.

If the dentist is not able to address an underlying issue like teeth grinding, which can damage veneers or cause them to fall off, they will advise the patient about other alternatives.

Get the smile of your dreams

There is no need to settle with a smile you are not happy with. Talk to the best dentists in Durango, CO to learn more about how dental veneers and other cosmetic dentistry procedures can be used to improve the way your teeth look.

5 Reasons Why Seniors Prefer Dentures to Replace Missing Teeth

Are you wondering whether you should choose dentures because you are missing many of your teeth? Partial dentures are commonly chosen when someone is missing multiple teeth in their mouth, while full dentures are recommended for those who are missing most or all of their teeth.

Other missing teeth replacement options include fixed bridges and dental implants. A fixed bridge requires grinding to healthy teeth in order for it to stay in place and many seniors do not want their healthy teeth touched. A dental implant requires oral surgery, which many seniors would prefer to avoid.

According to the American Dental Association, dentures can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth so that your appearance does not change much.

5 reasons why seniors prefer dentures

The following is a list of five reasons why more and more seniors are choosing dentures when they are missing many of their teeth.

1. They are very natural looking

Dentures are very natural looking nowadays, which allows wearers to feel confident when wearing them. Having a very natural looking smile is important to seniors as they do not want to feel self-conscious when they smile. A confident senior is going to lead a much happier and thus more fulfilling life.

2. They are easy to take care of

Taking care of dentures is quite simple to do. Every set of the dentures will come with complete instructions on how to provide them with the right kind of care, thereby allowing the dentures to last for the longest amount of time possible. The average amount of time seniors can expect their dentures to last is about seven years.

3. They restore mouth function

Wearing dentures restores the function of the teeth and mouth, which gives wearers the ability to talk, drink, bite and chew properly.

4. They are a quick solution

Depending on the type of denture chosen, it can take anywhere from a few days to about six weeks with the dentist in Durango, CO to complete and ready to wear.

5. They are removable

Dentures are completely removable, while other missing tooth solutions are permanent. Many seniors like the idea of being able to put in and remove their dentures whenever they want. The ability to remove their tooth replacement option also makes it easier to clean and take care of them.

Are you currently in need of new dentures?

Now that you understand why many seniors prefer dentures over the other tooth replacement options available nowadays, have you decided to get dentures to take care of your missing teeth problem? Know that dentures have come a long way in recent years, which means you can expect them to be comfortable when being worn.

In order for you to understand the types of dentures available to you, you will need to make a consultation appointment to go over your options. Once you do, you can be wearing your new dentures in no time at all.

I Might Have Sleep Apnea: What Do I Do Now?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that prevents you from getting a good night’s rest because your breathing repeatedly stops and starts while you are sleeping, interrupting your rest and leaving you tired during the day.

What do I do if I think I have sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder that affects 22 million people in the United States, and health care providers believe that 80 percent of people dealing with the disorder have not been diagnosed. If you have trouble sleeping and think you have sleep apnea, there are a few ways to figure it out.

Sleep apnea symptoms

If you have any of the following symptoms, there is a good chance that you have sleep apnea.

Having excessive fatigue during the day
Waking up with a headache in the morning
Falling asleep while driving
Waking up at night to gasp for air
Snoring loudly
Being irritable
Struggling to pay attention while you are awake
Waking up with a dry mouth

If you have any of these symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor to get evaluated. Your doctor will suggest trying a few things to see if your sleep pattern improves. If it does not, they will likely refer you to a sleep disorder center for further evaluation.

Treatment options

If the sleep specialist your doctor recommended determines that you have sleep apnea, the next step is to determine the best treatment options. In mild cases, the sleep specialist will recommend a few lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking or losing weight. If the lifestyle changes do not improve your sleep, the specialist will recommend other treatment options.

A few of these treatment options include:

CPAP machine: A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is used to treat moderate to severe sleep apnea. The machine uses a mask to deliver air pressure while you sleep. The pressure delivered is greater than the pressure in the surrounding air and keeps your upper airway passages open to prevent snoring and apnea.

Oral appliances: If you have trouble sleeping with a CPAP or other airway pressure devices, the specialist will suggest wearing an oral appliance that is designed to keep your throat open. Even though they are not as effective as CPAPs, they are easier to use.

Surgery: This is considered an option after all other treatments have failed. However, if you have certain jaw structural problems, the specialist may recommend this treatment option first.

Conclusion

Sleep apnea disrupts your quality of life because it prevents you from sleeping through the night and leaves you feeling tired during the day. If you think you have sleep apnea, schedule an appointment with the best dentist in Durango, CO to get tested and go over your treatment options.

A Cosmetic Dentist in Durango Can Fix Your Damaged Tooth

A lot of people don’t consider cosmetic dentistry because they feel that it isn’t absolutely necessary. And while cosmetic dentistry may not be needed, it is important to realize that cosmetic treatment can help repair damaged teeth.

While cosmetic dentistry is still new to the dental industry, it can be helpful to know what treatment methods can be used in order to repair damaged teeth. Read more below as discuss how a cosmetic dentists in Durango, CO can fix damaged teeth!

How a cosmetic dentist can repair damaged teeth

There are so many different kinds of cosmetic dental appliance repair methods. It’s best that a person talks with a cosmetic dentist so that they can best determine what treatment plan is right for them! Below they go over two different ways that a cosmetic dentist can help repair damaged teeth.

Dental veneers

Cosmetic dentists often use dental veneers in order to repair teeth that have minor damage. Sometimes people crack or chip the surface of a tooth which may cause for an unappealing look.

In other situations, people have severe staining that might cause the teeth to decay over time. Dental veneers can be used to restore the surface of the tooth so that it looks brand new or natural again!

Dental veneers are used by both cosmetic and general dentists because they allow for restoration. They are wafer-thin shells that go right over the damaged tooth to make it look like a normal tooth again.

Orthodontic braces or aligners

A lot of people think that braces or aligners are only used to make the teeth look better, but this is actually not the case! Braces and aligners are both used to straighten the teeth, yes but what most people don’t realize is that having crooked teeth can cause detrimental damage to the entire mouth.

Crooked teeth increase the likelihood of cavities because there are often certain areas that a person can’t reach with their toothbrush or floss. People are likely to have food get stuck in these areas which will eventually turn into plaque that eats away at the enamel.

Braces and aligners are both recommended by cosmetic dentists to help improve one’s look but to also repair any damage that might have been caused by having crooked teeth.

Cosmetic dentistry isn’t just about making one look better, it can also be used to help repair damaged teeth. Cosmetic treatment methods are used daily to help people repair their teeth as well as make them look better.

While these are only a few of the methods of treatment, it is important to remember that a cosmetic dentist can go over all of the different options.

Family Dentistry: Causes and Tips to Help Your Tooth Sensitivity

If you deal with tooth sensitivity, it may be time to schedule an appointment with your local family dentistry clinic. Tooth sensitivity can be related to many different things, some which may be out of your control. Fortunately, there are many ways to deal with this problem if you contact a dentist.

Some people do have more sensitive, tender teeth than others, but some problems require treatment immediately. If this is the case, you may wince when flossing and brushing or have pain throughout the day. This pain may not be debilitating, but it can be a serious nuisance.

Causes of tooth sensitivity

Acidic foods

If the tooth’s nerve pathways are already exposed, acidic foods can cause additional discomfort or pain. These may include kiwi, grapefruit, lemon, pickles and even tomato sauce. Staying away from these foods can reduce tooth sensitivity.

Brushing too hard

Yes, it is possible to brush the teeth too hard. Often, those who use a hard-bristled toothbrush or brush with too much force find their teeth are more sensitive than others. Hard brushing breaks down the tooth’s protective layers over time and leads to pain and discomfort.

Gum disease

In its earliest stages, gum disease is known as gingivitis. At a more advanced level, it is referred to as periodontitis, and it can cause serious tooth sensitivity. Gum disease can lead to receding gums, which cause the teeth to be extremely sensitive.

Cracked teeth

If you have a cracked tooth, it is important that you schedule a family dentistry visit. Cracked and chipped teeth can create problems that go past simple sensitivity if left unchecked. An extraction or cap may be necessary in this situation.

Tooth-whitening toothpaste

Some whitening toothpastes have chemicals that make the teeth sensitive. Some people are more sensitive to them than others. Those who have sensitivity may want to consider switching to another toothpaste.

Treating sensitive teeth

Fluoride

One way that sensitive teeth can be treated is with a fluoride application to the affected areas. Fluoride helps reduce pain by strengthening the enamel and protective layers of the teeth. It may also be a good idea to use fluoride at night at home.

Special toothpaste

Some toothpastes will desensitize the teeth after several applications. Most of these products are available over the counter and can help to block pain that is caused by sensitive teeth. A family dentistry professional can help determine which product is the right option for you.

Root canal

If the pain is severe and treatment is not working to desensitize the tooth, it may be time for a root canal. A root canal is a procedure during which problems in the dental pulp, or soft core of the tooth, are fixed. Many fear the term “root canal” but find that this is a popular and successful technique for getting rid of tooth sensitivity.

Conclusion

Tooth sensitivity can be a serious issue if it goes on for too long. It can make it difficult to eat, sleep and even speak if not treated correctly. It is important to discuss the right solutions for tooth sensitivity with the best Dentist in Durango, CO.

Preventive Dentistry: Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Preventive dentistry is concerned with helping patients reduce the chance of developing oral health concerns, such as oral cancer. By understanding the more common signs and symptoms of oral cancer, it makes it easier to know when a visit to the dentists in Durango, CO for an oral cancer screening is needed.

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

The earlier oral cancer is diagnosed the easier it is to treat. Unfortunately, many of the early symptoms can go unnoticed. This causes the cancer to worsen before treatment is administered. The following are four of the more common oral cancer symptoms to be mindful of and check for as a part of preventive dentistry:

Mouth sore

Many experience mouth sores and it obviously does not mean that the individual has oral cancer. However, if a mouth sore that does not go away or improve over time, then that could be an indication that oral cancer is present. This is especially true if the mouth sore causes a fair amount of discomfort.

A mouth sore is not necessarily something to panic over. But, it could be an indication of oral cancer. Preventive dentistry suggests having the symptoms examined by a dentist.

Difficulty swallowing

Difficulty swallowing is a common symptom among patients with oral cancer. It is a real cause for concern if difficulty swallowing that cannot be explained exists. Difficulty swallowing is not the same thing as a sore throat. It can be helpful to know the differences between the two.

Whenever difficulty swallowing exists, especially if other oral cancer symptoms exist along with it, then it is encouraged to visit a preventive dentistry office as soon as possible.

Facial pain

Oral cancer can lead to a fair amount of face and neck pain. Most commonly, patients with oral cancer report feeling jaw discomfort, jaw swelling, teeth pain and discomfort and neck complications.

If facial pain does not go away over the course of a week or two and other oral cancer symptoms are also present, then be sure to visit the dentist for treatment. This is to ensure the issue is properly diagnosed and treated in a timely manner.

Jaw complications

Along with jaw pain, other jaw complications often exist with oral cancer patients. Oral cancer can cause the jaw to become swollen. This can result in the improper fitting of artificial teeth, loose natural teeth or a malocclusion that did not previously exist.

While in some instances the pain can be intolerable and cause the person to not function well during the day, some cases of jaw pain caused by oral cancer can be more subtle.

Anytime jaw complications exist and cannot be explained for any other reason, then a visit to a preventive dentistry office is encouraged.

Preventive dentistry can help detect oral cancer

One of the main goals of preventive dentistry is to help patients detect oral cancer and other oral health concerns as early as possible. They also do everything possible to prevent the issue from worsening.

Common Reasons for Dental Inlays for Children

Along with fillings and crowns, dental inlays are possible options for treating your child’s teeth problems. If your son or daughter has significant tooth decay or even a fractured tooth, you need to seek specialized care. More common procedures might not thoroughly address the dental issue and provide the necessary relief.

It is essential that you understand when children will or will not be good candidates for inlays. In consultation with your dentist, you can make a decision that makes the most sense for your child’s oral health.

Do not put off this visit any longer. Make an appointment today with the best dentist in Durango, CO to discuss the benefits and effects of inlays. Your son or daughter could be on the road to feeling better. This procedure could help your child achieve a more attractive smile.

Broken tooth

Anyone with children knows how active young people can be. Through everyday play at home or school, by participating in sports or through other activities, it is not uncommon for children to break a tooth.

Not only can this be painful, but it can ruin a nice smile and impact the way a person’s mouth looks. Dental inlays fit over the grooves of a tooth and can repair the fractured portion similar to what a crown would do.

Severe cavity

Some parents may struggle with teaching younger children about proper oral hygiene. Despite the parent’s optimum efforts, some children may neglect brushing, flossing and other oral care. In these situations, tooth decay can set in, leading to cavities.

While fillings can usually address many cavities, the direst cases require more intervention. Dental inlays help repair significant decay without compromising the structure of the tooth.

When the fillings are not working

In many circumstances, fillings do an effective job of correcting the effects of cavities. However, they are not as durable as inlays. Most fillings will not last more than 10 years; some need to be replaced after as few as five years.

Parents will love to know that inlays are much more long-lasting. A competent dentist should be able to fit a child with an inlay that will remain intact for up to 30 years. Parents who have concerns about having to get new fillings for their children every several years should consider this other option.

Cost of dental inlays

For the most extensive teeth problems, inlays are an appealing treatment for many parents. When compared to other procedures such as implants, dental inlays are less expensive.

Depending on the size and scope of the cavities and fractures, inlays often do not cost much more than a filling. On the other hand, implants can cost up to a few thousand dollars. Even crowns usually cost more than an inlay.

Conclusion

By now, you hopefully have a good idea of when you should think about getting inlays for your child. If you need additional guidance, contact your dentist’s office. Your dentist will evaluate the severity of your child’s condition, along with other factors, and give you direction on how you should proceed.

Teeth Whitening Trays: 3 Things to Know

Teeth whitening trays are a popular choice if you want a brilliant smile. You can use these trays in the comfort of your home. The trays are also intuitive to use. Before you get started with your teeth whitening trays, discover some key information you should know.

A quick overview of teeth whitening trays

Before delving into what patients should know about teeth whitening trays, what are they? Teeth whitening trays are a kit that includes a tooth tray and a bleaching agent. The bleaching agent is usually a gel. Patients place the bleaching agent in the tray. Then, the patient carefully places the tray over their teeth.

After a set amount of time, the patient removes the tray and rinses out the mouth. Patients repeat this process to get a bright, white smile.

How the results compare to in-office teeth whitening

Before buying teeth whitening trays, patients should understand how it compares to an in-office whitening appointment. At-home trays require multiple treatments repeated over time. Most in-office whitening treatments produce results in a single visit. The quicker results from in-office whitening is because:

The dentist uses more concentrated bleaching agents
The dentist cleans the teeth more thoroughly first
The dentist’s professional experience allows for quicker results

Even so, patients with patience can get similar results from teeth whitening trays. It will just take multiple sessions to achieve the results.

The choices for teeth whitening trays

Patients should also be aware of the choices regarding teeth whitening trays. Some dentists sell professional-grade kits in their office. Alternatively, most pharmacies and superstores sell numerous kits.

Store-bought kits typically have lower concentrations of bleaching agents. The teeth whitening trays distributed by dentists may offer custom-fit trays. These custom trays produce better results but are more expensive.

Teeth whitening trays can also vary by active ingredients, concentrations, brands, costs and length of time worn.

Pros and cons of teeth whitening trays

Anyone who uses a teeth whitening tray should also learn the pros and cons of this method. It offers convenience via the ability to use the tray at home. Completing the treatment at home also saves time.

There is no need to drive to the dentist. Furthermore, you can multitask while wearing the tray. Teeth whitening trays are also more affordable than in-office treatments.

In terms of disadvantages, teeth whitening trays take longer to produce results than professional whitening. There is also a risk of tooth sensitivity. To minimize that risk, patients should limit the time wearing the tray at first.

Leaving the tray in too long can cause sensitivity. In extreme cases, high concentrations left in too long can cause oral damage. This is rare, however.

Conclusion

You can brighten your smile with teeth whitening trays you use at home. For improved results, consider a custom tray. The dentists in Durango, CO can help fit you for a custom tray. After a few weeks of use, teeth whitening trays should produce results.

Why Is Dental Cleaning Important?

Contrary to common belief, a dental cleaning is not just meant for a brighter smile, but also for the general wellness of a patient. There is a relationship between oral health and general health.

Some of the related medical and dental problems include cardiovascular disease, bone loss, cancers, strokes and many other problems. While regular brushing and flossing after meals can help keep teeth clean, annual dental cleanings keep teeth clean and healthy.

Important benefits of dental cleanings

The following are some of the main reasons to get regular professional dental cleanings.

Stops tooth loss

One of the main causes of tooth loss among American adults is gum disease. Gum disease often starts with the build-up of plaque. Plaque is the whitish film that builds up over time on the teeth of a patient.

As gum disease progresses, plaque is pushed further down, and it destroys the supporting bone in the jaw of the patient causing the teeth to loosen and eventually fall out. However, annual cleanings by a professional dental care provider and good oral hygiene can reduce and eventually stop plaque buildup.

Prevents cavities

According to the Mayo Clinic, plaque is the main cause of tooth decay. Plaque is acidic, and it corrodes the tooth enamel. When it is left unattended, it eventually leads to cavities. Plaque can be removed through regular brushing and flossing after meals, and annual dental cleanings.

Brightens the smile

Beverages such as coffee, tea and wine, some foods, and narcotics such as tobacco can stain teeth. A dental cleaning removes these stains and leaves the patient with polished teeth. The result is a whiter and brighter smile.

Freshens breath

Bad breath or halitosis is a common source of embarrassment among many Americans. Regular dental cleanings are a great way to keep the mouth both healthy and odor-free. During a dental cleaning, the dentist will identify common problems such as dry mouth, periodontal disease and other conditions that may be causing bad breath.

In some cases, the best dentist in Durango, CO may refer the patient to a physician when they discover that the odor does not originate from the mouth.

Boosts overall health

Apart from providing patients with a whiter and brighter smile, professional teeth cleanings can benefit the overall health of a patient by reducing the likelihood of stroke or heart attack, preventing diabetes, decreasing the likelihood of dementia and preventing low birth weight or premature birth for pregnant patients.

Helps save money on restorative dental procedures

The main reason why most people skip dental visits and cleanings is to save money. The cost of regular dental cleanings is less than the cost of most restorative procedures like the treatment of periodontal disease or filling cavities. A bit of preventive dental care can help patients avoid unpleasant and costly problems in the long run.

Reap the benefits a dental cleaning

Poor oral health can lead to other health issues. Fortunately, you can maintain your general health by taking care of your oral health, with the help of a dental cleaning.

Risk Factors for Gum Disease

A great way to promote good oral hygiene is by understanding gum disease. Even in cases of a mild infection, this causes a lot of discomfort. However, as the disease worsens, it creates significantly more serious problems. For you and your family, learn the signs, symptoms and risk factors of gum disease.

Seeking help

When it comes to certain dental problems, people often have varying symptoms. However, for gum disease, almost all patients experience most of the same things. The only difference is the severity of the symptoms based on the severity of the infection.

By seeking help, the professional dentists in Durango, CO can bring the infection under control. Paying attention to the signs and symptoms also reduces the risk of a patient losing bone and teeth.

Signs and symptoms of gum disease

Early on, an individual would develop bad breath. As gum disease worsens, they would notice increasingly swollen and red gums. If left untreated, the gums would begin to bleed. This occurs most often when eating something hard or crunchy and brushing.

Eventually, the person’s gums would become extremely sore. Even the slightest touch would be enough to cause significant pain. In the most severe cases, a patient would experience bone, gum tissue and tooth damage. At that point, a dentist needs to take more aggressive action to bring the infection under control.

Risk factors

Along with noticing a variety of signs and symptoms of having gum disease, everyone should understand the risk factors. Knowing what these are can help an individual avoid developing this oral disease. As with other dental issues, prevention is always better than treatment. Following are some of the things that put a person at risk for developing gum disease.

Genetics
Poor oral hygiene
Smoking
Diabetes
Certain medications
Stress
Genetics
Hormonal changes
Poor Nutrition
Compromised immune system
Other illnesses like active Perio disease and connective tissue

Interesting facts

The way in which risk factors present for gum disease vary according to the patient. However, they all work in similar ways. First, there is an increase in the levels of biofilm, which increases the bacteria in the plaque. This is usually the result of poor oral hygiene, faulty dentistry and consuming too many carbohydrates.

Second, a person’s body may lack the ability to respond correctly. That means a patient’s system no longer has the capability of dealing with a high level of bacteria. There are several risk factors that cause this to occur. Included are diabetes, medication, hormonal imbalances, compromised immune system and stress.

Regular checkups

Seeing a dentist for scheduled examinations goes beyond checking for cavities. During an exam, the dental professional looks at the patient’s gums. Doing that makes it easy to identify the onset of gum disease. If detected and regardless of how severe the case, a patient has several treatment options.

Along with seeing a dentist, it is important for people to follow a good oral hygiene regimen. That entails brushing and flossing after every meal, including snacks. It also consists of rinsing with a mouthwash that contains fluoride. This is an ideal opportunity for parents to teach their children about taking care of their teeth. Along with fewer cavities, that reduces the risk of developing gum disease.