Do You Have Sensitive Teeth?

About 1 in 4 adults suffer from tooth sensitivity. It’s not a disease, but a condition that usually develops over time. Sensitive teeth can result from dietary acids, enamel wear, gum recession, or temporary causes like whitening. Pain typically feels like a sharp, quick stab when eating or drinking something cold, hot, sweet, or sour. Eliminating or reducing the cause is the best first step to relief.

What is Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)?

Bruxism affects about 15% of people and is often stress-related. It usually occurs during sleep and may lead to enamel wear, tooth chipping, gum erosion, jaw pain, and TMJ issues. Children may grind due to jaw development or discomfort. Reducing stress and monitoring symptoms can help prevent damage.

Why Should I Get Gold Fillings?

Gold is durable, biocompatible, and resists plaque. It doesn’t chip or crack like some materials and lasts significantly longer—20 to 50 years. It also causes less wear on opposing teeth and maintains its appearance over time. Gold may be more cost-effective long-term due to fewer replacements.

Who Needs Their Teeth Sealed?

Sealants protect the grooves on back teeth from plaque and food debris. They’re especially effective for children and newly erupted permanent molars. Application is quick and painless. Sealants can last for years and significantly reduce the risk of decay in pits and fissures.

Do I Need Dental X-Rays?

X-rays are prescribed based on clinical need. They help diagnose issues not visible to the naked eye, such as decay, abscesses, and bone loss. While there is minimal radiation exposure, it’s less than what we receive from natural background sources in daily life. Your dentist will weigh the risks and benefits for your specific situation.

What Do I Need To Know About Oral Piercings?

Oral piercings carry health risks due to lack of regulation and possible complications like infections, allergic reactions, fractured teeth, nerve damage, and airway obstruction. If you’re considering a piercing, it’s important to be aware of these risks and ask questions about safety and sterilization.

What Can I Do About Dry Mouth?

To manage dry mouth:

• Sip water regularly

• Use artificial saliva

• Avoid alcohol and caffeine

• Chew sugar-free gum with xylitol

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene

• Avoid dry or salty foods

• Eat moist, soft meals

• Use a humidifier
  If needed, fluoride treatments or remineralization may help prevent decay.

How Do I Manage Jaw System Dysfunction?

Avoid habits like clenching and grinding. Keep teeth slightly apart when at rest and avoid chewing gum or hard foods. Don’t open your mouth too wide or test jaw movement. Sleep on your back or side, not your stomach. Moist heat, awareness, and mild painkillers like ibuprofen may help with pain management. Let your dentist know if symptoms persist.

Crown and Bridge Pre-Treatment Information

Crowns may be gold or porcelain-fused-to-metal. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared and a temporary crown is placed. After two weeks, the final crown is cemented. Use saltwater rinses, painkillers, and avoid sticky foods until the crown is seated. If your temporary crown falls off, place it back if possible and call your dental office.

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