When dealing with tooth pain caused by an infected pulp, many patients wonder: can general dentists do root canals? The short answer is yes&mdash;many general dentists can perform root canal therapy depending on their expertise and comfort level. However, in some cases, they may refer the patient to an endodontist for specialized care. Understanding when a general dentist can handle a root canal procedure and when an endodontist is needed is essential for ensuring optimal treatment.
<h2>Can a General Dentist Do Root Canals and Crowns?</h2>
Yes, general dentists can perform both root canal treatment and crowns, as they are trained in various endodontic procedures. A typical root canal involves removing the infected pulp, disinfecting the area, and sealing the tooth. Afterward, a crown is placed to protect the tooth and restore functionality.
However, while a dentist performs root canals regularly, complex cases, such as those involving root canal retreatment or severe infection, may require the expertise of a root canal endodontist. If a case is beyond their scope, a general dentist will likely refer root canals to a specialist for better outcomes.
<h2>Can a Dentist Do a Root Canal on the Same Day?</h2>
Many patients seek immediate relief from tooth pain and wonder, can a dentist do a root canal same day? In many cases, yes. Some general dentists offer same-day root canal therapy, especially if the infection is not too advanced.
However, if the root canal procedure is complex or requires additional imaging and planning, it may take multiple visits. If a same-day root canal isn't feasible, the dentist might place a temporary filling to alleviate discomfort until the complete procedure can be performed.
<h2>Dentist or Endodontist for Root Canal &ndash; Who Should You Choose?</h2>
Choosing a Dentist or an Endodontist: Root Canal Treatment depends on the severity of the condition.
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">A general dentist is ideal for routine root canal procedures with straightforward cases.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">An endodontist specializes in complex cases, including severe infections, curved canals, or cases requiring root canal retreatment.</li>
</ul>
Your general dentist will assess your condition and determine if they can perform the procedure or if they need to refer the patient to an endodontist for advanced care.
<h2>Why Would a Dentist Refer You to an Endodontist?</h2>
A general dentist might refer root canals to an endodontist in cases involving:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Severe infection or decay: If the root canal treatment is complex, an endodontist can handle it more efficiently.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Curved or blocked canals: Some teeth have intricate root systems that require specialized tools.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Previous failed root canal: If an earlier procedure didn't resolve the issue, an endodontist can provide root canal retreatment.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pain management concerns: Endodontists have advanced techniques for managing pain and discomfort during treatment.</li>
</ul>
If your general dentist suggests seeing an endodontist, it's to ensure you receive the highest level of care for your condition.
<h2>Do Dentists Lie About Root Canals?</h2>
There is a common concern among patients about whether dentists exaggerate the need for root canals. The reality is that ethical dentists prioritize patient health and recommend procedures only when necessary. Misdiagnoses can happen, but it is always best to seek a second opinion if you have doubts.
A general dentist will only suggest a root canal procedure when there are signs of deep infection, infected pulp, or irreversible damage. If you're unsure, consulting a root canal endodontist for confirmation can provide peace of mind.
<h2>Get Expert Root Canal Care at Smile Select Dental</h2>
So, can general dentists do root canals? Yes, but whether they should depends on the complexity of your case. If you need a root canal procedure, your general dentist can assess your condition and either treat you directly or refer root canals to an endodontist for specialized care.
For expert root canal treatment and complete dental care, visit<a href="https://www.smileselectdental.com/services/group/general-dentistry-california"> Smile Select Dental</a> today. Our experienced team ensures that you receive the best treatment, whether from our skilled general dentists or a trusted endodontic specialist.

Can General Dentists Do Root Canals?

Orthodontists are not likely to remove teeth, relax! Visiting an orthodontist for the first time can feel a bit overwhelming, but knowing what to expect can help ease your nerves. Whether you're considering braces or just exploring your options for a straighter, healthier smile, your first orthodontist appointment is an important step. In this guide, we'll walk you through what happens at your first orthodontist appointment, from the initial consultation to the next steps in your treatment journey.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>Step 1: Checking In and Filling Out Forms&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
When you arrive at the orthodontist&rsquo;s office, you&rsquo;ll be asked to complete some paperwork. This typically includes providing details about your medical and dental history, any concerns you have about your teeth, and your insurance or insurance payment options.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Your orthodontist wants to ensure they have a complete picture of your oral health before recommending any treatment.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>Step 2: Examining Your Teeth and Jaws&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
Next, the orthodontist or a dental assistant will take a close look at your teeth and jaws. This examination helps determine if you need orthodontic treatment and what type of treatment will work best for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;
The orthodontist will check for issues such as:&nbsp;&nbsp;
- Crowded or crooked teeth&nbsp;&nbsp;
- Overbite or underbite&nbsp;
- Gaps between teeth&nbsp;&nbsp;
- Jaw misalignment&nbsp;&nbsp;
They may also ask if you&rsquo;ve experienced issues like gum disease, difficulty chewing, or jaw pain.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>Step 3: X-Rays and Photos&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
To get a detailed look at your teeth and jaw structure, the orthodontist may take X-rays, digital scans, or photographs of your mouth. These images help them create a customized treatment plan that suits your needs.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>Step 4: Discussing Treatment Options&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
Once the examination and X-rays are complete, your orthodontist will discuss potential treatment options with you. These could include:&nbsp; 
- Traditional braces&nbsp;&nbsp;
- Clear aligners like Invisalign&nbsp;
- Retainers or other orthodontic devices&nbsp;
They&rsquo;ll explain how each option works, how long the treatment may take, and what to expect throughout the process.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>Step 5: Understanding the orthodontic consultation cost and Payment Plans&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
Many people worry about the cost, but most initial consultations are either free or affordable. If you decide to move forward with treatment, the office will explain the costs involved, insurance coverage, and available payment plans to make treatment more accessible.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>Step 6: What Happens Next?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
Depending on your situation, your orthodontist may recommend taking impressions of your teeth during the first visit or scheduling another appointment to begin treatment.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>The Second Orthodontist Appointment</h2>
If you&rsquo;re scheduled for a follow-up, your appointment might include placing spacers, additional scans, or preparing your teeth for braces or aligners.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>How long after your first orthodontist appointment do you get braces?</h2>
The answer depends on your treatment plan. Some patients start treatment right away, while others may need additional dental work before getting braces.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>Ready for your first orthodontic appointment with us?&nbsp;</h2>
Your first orthodontist visit is the perfect opportunity to learn about your treatment options and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile. At Smile Select Dental, we&rsquo;re committed to making your orthodontic journey smooth, comfortable, and stress-free.
Our expert orthodontists will guide you through every step, from your initial consultation to achieving the smile you&rsquo;ve always wanted. Whether you need traditional braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic solutions, we offer customized treatment plans designed to fit your unique needs and lifestyle.
Why Choose Smile Select Dental?
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Experienced orthodontic specialists</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Personalized treatment plans</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Flexible payment options &amp; insurance support</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">State-of-the-art technology for precise results</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Comfortable, patient-focused care</li>
</ul>
Schedule your appointment now! Call us or visit our website to get started: <a href="https://www.smileselectdental.com/services/group/orthodontist-in-california">Learn more about our orthodontic services here</a>

What Happens at Your First Orthodontist Appointment?

Just had periodontal surgery? Don't worry, your diet isn't doomed to be bland and boring- although, yes, it's time to skip the crunchy snacks for now! The question on everyone's mind after surgery is often, What to eat after periodontal surgery? In this guide, we'll help you discover the best foods to nourish your healing gums while keeping your taste buds happy.
<h2>What is Periodontal Surgery? </h2>
Periodontal surgery is a specialized dental procedure aimed at treating gum disease and improving the health of your gums. It targets issues such as deep pockets between teeth and gums, bone loss, and gum recession. This surgery helps restore the natural structure and function of your gums, promoting better oral hygiene and overall oral health.
<h2>Foods to Eat After Periodontal Surgery </h2>
After periodontal surgery, your gums need time to heal, which means eating soft, nutrient-rich foods is essential. A soft food diet can help reduce irritation to the surgical site while providing the essential vitamins and minerals needed for healing.
Some great options include:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Mashed potatoes: Soft, easy to eat, and packed with carbohydrates.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sweet potatoes: High in vitamin A, which supports wound healing.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Soft fruits: Bananas, applesauce, and soft pears provide important vitamins like vitamin C and antioxidants.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Peanut butter: Smooth peanut butter is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, great for rebuilding tissue.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Frozen yogurt: A soothing option that is both soft and cool, making it an ideal treat after gum surgery.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Liquid Diet After Gum Surgery </h2>
In the first few days after surgery, a liquid diet is often recommended. This ensures that you're getting nutrients without putting unnecessary pressure on your gums. You can consume:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Broths: Full of nutrients and easy to swallow.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Smoothies: A great way to blend soft vegetables and fruits with added protein.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Milkshakes: These can offer a delicious, nutrient-rich snack.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Can I Eat Rice After Gum Graft? </h2>
While rice is generally a staple in many diets, it may be a bit too tough to chew in the initial days after your surgery. It&rsquo;s better to wait a few days before introducing rice. After the swelling and tenderness subside, you can enjoy soft rice like mashed rice or rice porridge.
<h2>How Long Do Stitches Stay In After Gum Graft Surgery? </h2>
The stitches from a gum graft typically dissolve on their own within a week or two. During this time, sticking to soft foods and avoiding anything crunchy or hard will help prevent irritating the surgical site.
<h2>Can I Eat Ice Cream After Gum Surgery? </h2>
Who doesn't love ice cream? After gum surgery, ice cream is not only a soothing treat but can help numb the area temporarily. However, be cautious about flavors that may have seeds, as they can get stuck in the surgical site. Always choose smooth ice cream or frozen yogurt.
<h2>What to Avoid After Periodontal Surgery? </h2>
While soft foods are highly encouraged, there are certain foods you should avoid during the healing process to prevent complications.
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Crunchy or hard foods: Chips, popcorn, and raw vegetables can be too harsh for the healing gums.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Spicy foods: These can irritate the surgical site and cause discomfort.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Acidic foods: Citrus fruits and tomatoes may cause a burning sensation and irritation to your gums.</li>
</ul>
<h2>When Can I Eat Solid Food After Gum Graft? </h2>
After a few days on a liquid or soft food diet, you may start to slowly introduce solid foods back into your diet. Always consult with your periodontist for personalized recommendations based on your healing progress. Typically, after one to two weeks, you can enjoy more solid options, but still focus on soft and easy-to-eat foods.
<h2>Healing One Bite at a Time: Your Path to Recovery </h2>
Proper nutrition is key for a successful recovery after periodontal surgery. What to eat after periodontal surgery plays a huge role in ensuring your gums heal properly and that you&rsquo;re not causing unnecessary strain on your surgical site. By following the advice outlined here, you'll help speed up the recovery process and avoid unnecessary discomfort.
If you&rsquo;re looking for expert care during your recovery journey, <a href="https://www.smileselectdental.com/services/group/periodontist-southern-california">Smile Select Dental</a> is here to help. Our team of highly skilled periodontists offers comprehensive care in Southern California. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward a healthier, happier smile!

What to Eat After Periodontal Surgery?

For many, the idea of visiting the dentist is met with apprehension or fear. This is where sleep dentistry comes to the rescue, offering a solution for individuals who avoid essential dental care due to anxiety or discomfort. But what is sleep dentistry, and how does it work? This innovative approach has revolutionized the dental experience for countless patients, ensuring comfort and relaxation during dental procedures.&nbsp;
<h2>Understanding Sleep Dentistry</h2>
Sleep dentistry, also referred to as sedation dentistry, involves the use of sedatives to help patients relax during dental treatment. Contrary to its name, sleep dentistry doesn&rsquo;t always mean the patient is completely unconscious. It uses different levels of sedation, ranging from mild to deep, depending on the patient&rsquo;s needs and the complexity of the procedure. The goal is to alleviate fear and make dental care accessible to everyone, even those with severe dental anxiety.
<h2>Types of Sedation in Sleep Dentistry</h2>
When considering types of sedation, it&rsquo;s essential to understand the various methods available. Dentists assess individual needs to recommend the best approach for their patients.
<h3>1. Oral Sedation: Relaxation in a Pill</h3>
Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed pill before the appointment. This form of sedation ranges from minimal to moderate, allowing patients to remain conscious but deeply relaxed. Oral sedation is particularly popular for procedures like pediatric dentistry, helping children stay calm during treatment.
<h3>2. Nitrous Oxide Sedation: The Laughing Gas Option</h3>
Commonly known as &ldquo;laughing gas,&rdquo; nitrous oxide sedation is inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. This method provides mild relaxation and wears off quickly, often allowing patients to drive themselves home after the procedure.
<h3>3. IV Sedation: What Drug Is Used for IV Sedation in Dentistry?</h3>
For those wondering, &ldquo;What drug is used for IV sedation in dentistry?&rdquo; it typically includes medications like Midazolam. This method is administered intravenously, offering a deeper level of sedation. Patients undergoing IV sedation dentistry often report a dreamlike state during their treatment.
<h3>4. General Anesthesia: Complete Unconsciousness</h3>
In rare cases, general anesthesia is used for patients requiring complex dental work or for those with severe dental phobias. Under this sedation level, patients are completely unconscious.
<h2>Oral Sedation for Pediatric Patients</h2>
Children with dental anxiety can benefit from oral sedation, which provides a safe and effective way to keep them calm during treatments. This ensures they receive the necessary care without fear or discomfort, fostering a positive attitude toward dental care.
<h2>Sleep Dentistry for Sleep Apnea</h2>
Beyond addressing anxiety, sleep dentistry also plays a role in treating obstructive sleep apnea. Using custom-made oral appliances, dentists help patients maintain open airways during sleep. If you suffer from sleep apnea, consult a qualified professional to explore how sleep dentistry can improve your health.
<h2>IV Sedation Dentistry: What to Expect?</h2>
If you&rsquo;re considering IV sedation dentistry, here&rsquo;s what to expect:
<ul>
<li>Consultation and Assessment: Your dentist will review your medical history and recommend the most suitable types of sedation for your needs.</li>
<li>Sedation Administration: The sedative is administered intravenously, quickly inducing a state of deep relaxation.</li>
<li>Procedure Comfort: You&rsquo;ll remain semi-conscious or fully relaxed, with little to no memory of the procedure.</li>
<li>Post-Procedure Recovery: After the sedation wears off, you may need someone to escort you home.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Why Choose Smile Select Dental for Sleep Dentistry?</h2>
At <a href="https://www.smileselectdental.com/services/california-sleep-dentistry">Smile Select Dental</a>, we understand that dental anxiety can be a significant barrier to maintaining your oral health. Our team specializes in providing personalized sedation options, ensuring every patient feels at ease during their dental appointment.
From routine dental work to managing sleep apnea, we&rsquo;re here to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Ready to take the stress out of dental care? Discover the benefits of sleep dentistry by scheduling a consultation with Smile Select Dental. Your smile deserves expert care in a relaxing environment!

What Is Sleep Dentistry?

Due to their invisibility and convenient use, clear aligners are the most sought after treatment to straighten teeth. It is an ideal solution for minor spacing and crowded teeth. Though they are user-friendly, its use requires a certain level of discipline to get results in time. So here is how to use your clear aligners in 2020 to transform your smile.
<h2>Do&rsquo;s</h2>
<h3>1. Clean Your Teeth</h3>
Brush your teeth before inserting clear aligners as food may get trapped between your teeth and aligners, resulting in cavities and plaque. Rinse your mouth with water after drinking anything except water and then only insert aligners. This will prevent it from staining.
<h3>2. Use Them More</h3>
To get assured results, make sure to use them at least 20 to 22 hours daily. Wearing it for the prescribed time will facilitate its working. You need to wear them while sleeping also. Removing them frequently may prolong the treatment.
<h3>3. Store Carefully</h3>
Always store your aligner in its case when not in use. You must avoid keeping it in a towel or napkin as it can damage them.
<h2>Don&rsquo;ts</h2>
<h3>1. No Soap and Toothpaste for Cleaning</h3>
Don&rsquo;t use any soap or detergent to clean aligners. Using this would not only stain them but also leave an unpleasant taste in them, ruining your appetite when you put them again. Also, avoid toothpaste to clean your aligners as it contains abrasives that will negatively affect the plastic and decrease aligner&rsquo;s invisibility, making them noticeable.
<h3>2. Avoid Eating and Drinking with Aligners</h3>
You must avoid drinking anything except for water while wearing aligners. Besides, the hot temperature can damage your aligners, forcing you to replace it with a new pair. Though made of durable thermoplastic, clear aligners cannot withstand constant chewing and biting. So avoid eating chunky and chewy food products as it may damage its shape.
<h3>3. No Exposure to Air</h3>
Avoid letting clear aligners dry in the air as it may cause bacteria to build-up and damage your teeth while using them.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">How to Clean?</h2>
Clean your aligners regularly by soaking them in denture cleaner or water. You can also use a separate brush, other than to brush teeth, to remove any food particles from them.
Smile Select Dental has made straightening teeth easy. We provide effective yet <a href="https://www.smileselectdental.com/services/invisalign-in-california" target="_blank" rel="noopener">affordable clear aligners</a> that help bring back that confident smile.

Right Way to Use Your Clear Aligners in 2020

The orthodontic treatment has gained popularity across the world because of its efficiency and effectiveness to correct both severe and minor poor teeth alignment. It fixes malocclusion and misaligned teeth that may result in improper bites and several other oral health issues like tooth decay and gum diseases. However, people get nervous when it comes to getting the treatment due to confusion created by myths about orthodontics. Here are the top orthodontic treatment myths debunked.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Myth 1- Orthodontic treats only with braces</h2>
Orthodontic treatment isn&rsquo;t just about braces. It offers several other options that can help move teeth back to their position. Clear aligner is one such option that can align teeth without visibility. Orthodontists are qualified to use different types of tools to aid the alignment of teeth, and thus they can guide the patient for the best possible treatment.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Myth 2- Orthodontics is only for cosmetic purpose</h2>
Though aligned teeth improve your appearance with a beautiful smile, it also functions better. Straighter teeth work better in chewing and biting and also eliminate speech issues. Besides, with properly aligned teeth, you have fewer chances of developing gum diseases, tooth decay, and cavities as food particles do not get space to get stuck. Hence, orthodontics not only adds to the facial profile but also plays a significant role at large in overall health care.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Myth 3- Office visits not required</h2>
Every treatment requires monitoring to check the status of the progress. The same goes for orthodontics treatment. The orthodontists need to monitor closely to ensure that the treatment stays on course. Regular monitoring allows them to take the required steps to make corrections in case of problems. However, due to technological advancements, patients can have an interval of eight to ten weeks between two appointments, depending on their condition.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Myth 4- You will have a metal mouth for years</h2>
It might have been true a couple of decades ago. However, orthodontic treatment today offers so many options to choose from to get straighter teeth. You can go for less noticeable ceramic braces over the traditional metal ones. Also, with removable clear aligners, you can get your teeth straight without getting noticed.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Myth 5- Orthodontic treatment is only for children</h2>
It&rsquo;s never too late to start with orthodontic treatment. Whether young or adult, it works for all ages. However, adult treatment can take more time as compared to a kid&rsquo;s treatment because of prior dental work. Hence, age is not a concern when it comes to getting a healthy smile.
Now that you know enough about the orthodontic treatment, you can<a href="https://www.smileselectdental.com/services/group/orthodontist-in-california"> schedule an appointment </a>with Smile Select Dental to get started and flaunt that smile you had been dreaming of for long.

Top Orthodontic Treatment Myths Debunked

Things to Know About Invisalign Treatment

All About Dental Implants

Get that Smile Back with Dental Veneers in 2020

Tips to Get the Correct Budget-Friendly Braces in 2019

Dental Implants A Boon for All Seasons

Cosmetic Dentistry for Young Children

A Quick Primer on Cosmetic Dental Costs

Types Of Cosmetic Dentistry Prevalent In 2019

<h2>Managing Good Oral Health as a Senior</h2>
Taking good care of your dental hygiene can help you achieve healthy teeth and gums. It doesn&rsquo;t really matter what your age is if you take proper care of your dental health and go for regular checkups. Brushing with fluoride-rich toothpaste twice a day and flossing once can help you keep good dental hygiene whereas regular <a href="https://www.smileselectdental.com/locations/services/los-angeles-county/dentist-in-walnut-ca/restorative-dentistry">visits to a dentist for a checkup</a> will ensure that any problems if present can be addressed.
<h2>Oral Health Issues That Seniors Need to know about</h2>
As a senior, you need to realize that just brushing and flossing regularly doesn&rsquo;t help you in maintaining good oral health. There are issues that may arise and you might start facing problems as well. If you are someone who has a habit of wearing dentures or you are someone who is taking medication then there might be some problems that you may encounter. Consulting a doctor or a dentist is advisable if you are facing any such challenges.
● &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Brushing with a fluoride-rich toothpaste helps in keeping good hygiene and flossing and regular check-ups ensure no cavity or decay in the roots of the teeth. It is considered to be the most common dental problem in adults.
● &nbsp; The gums have a tendency of receding over a period of time which may eventually lead to sensitivity problems to arise. Any change in the temperature of the products you are intaking can cause pain as the tooth area gets exposed as the enamel coating disappears. There have been cases where people were even sensitive towards only the temperature of food products. But there are instances where the sensitivity to inhaling air through the mouth was seen as a problem The sensitivity towards sweet drinks and the sour food products can also be visible. It is advised to use an anti-sensitivity toothpaste.
● &nbsp; Seniors may experience this a lot but the dry mouth has been constantly been a common condition. Dry mouth is generally a result of some medication or treatment or sometimes happens because of some disorder. If your mouth remains dry for a longer period chances are it may damage your teeth. Consulting a dentist is always a good idea and can help you achieve appropriate treatments and medications so as to help you prevent any trouble you might have been facing due to a dry mouth.
● &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Oral health gets adversely affected by diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer as well. A dentist knows the proper solution to this and it is highly recommended for you to visit one if you have any of the aforementioned.
● &nbsp; One thing about dentures is that they are very difficult to take care of them. Consulting a dentist and following the instructions given is highly advisable and recommended. The long-term dentures need a regular checkup.
● &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;For the people in their forties, it is more common to have gum diseases but it can happen to anyone of any age group though. It is a potentially critical condition and there are certain factors which enhance the severity of it:
❖ &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Unhealthy Diet
❖ &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Poor Dental Hygiene
❖ &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Diseases
❖ &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Stress and Smoking
❖ &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Medications and Treatments
● &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;As the gum diseases are said to be reversible in their early stages, it is very crucial for you to get it checked and confirmed. Though prevention of the same can be practiced by keeping up good oral hygiene it is also advised to go for dental checkups regularly so as to not only ensure the detection of the problem but also its treatment.
● &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;When replacing the teeth which go missing or have damaged over time, crowns and bridges are used in the process of providing strength. Crown is typically available for capping up the area which is heavily damaged. It not only provides strength to the damaged tooth it also helps improve your appearance. When you have a few teeth missing bridges are used. These bridges can be found around the missing teeth and it helps in cementing the natural teeth or fill up the empty space by implants.

Oral Health as a Senior

<h2>Bruxism</h2>
Bruxism is a condition in which teeth and gums become slightly loose and it also pains a lot. If one wakes up in the morning with a headache or sore jaw muscles then there are chances that it is bruxism. There can be grinding and clenching of the teeth and it may further destroy the bones and tissues of gums that surround the teeth. Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome can also be a result of Bruxism, in this syndrome the problems arise on the jaw joint.
<h3>Symptoms of Bruxism</h3>
There are no clear symptoms of bruxism that you yourself can discover. The symptoms usually are not even realized by you as it happens more as an unconscious habit. You might not even be sure about it unless someone who has noticed the horrible sound you make while you are asleep tells you about it. If you<a href="https://www.smileselectdental.com/services/group/specialized-dentist-in-california"> visit a dentist regularly</a> then there are chances of discovery of bruxism as the dentist might discover the fractured tooth enamel or the worn-out teeth. The other symptoms that you may or may not feel include pain in the face or headache and neck pain. It is advisable to visit a dentist in case you have any such symptoms.
<h3>Bruxism Treatment</h3>
The kind of treatment you need depends on the root cause of the problem that has caused bruxism. A dentist would be able to determine the intensity of damage by a thorough examination of your teeth and would ask you certain questions in order to help you in the best way possible. The intensity of damage caused due to bruxism is one of the main factors that dentists consider before recommending any kind of treatment. After a thorough analysis &nbsp;and examination, the dentist may suggest one of the following treatments to you:
● &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;An Appliance: This is more like a custom-made appliance that you can wear while you are off to sleep. As this would be designed in a customized way in order to perfectly fit your inner mouth it will help in protecting the upper teeth from grinding against the lower teeth. Though using an appliance is a good option for the people suffering from bruxism it doesn&rsquo;t promise to cure it.
● &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Finding Ways of Relaxing: Stress is considered as the root cause of bruxism and stress reduction methods and activities are always good for the people suffering from bruxism. A good book, nice music, a long and comforting walk or bath can bring a lot of positive change not only in the personality but also help in handling stress. It is also advised to treat the sore part of the muscles which resulted due to clenching with warm and wet cloth in order to relax the muscles.
● &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Reduction of the High Spots: New fillings, crowns or orthodontics can be used to help achieve a situation where your teeth start fitting well together. The clenching and grinding sometimes give rise to an abnormal bite and reduction of the high spots of teeth help in achieving a properly even bite.

Bruxism: Bruxism Symptoms and Sleep Bruxism

All through our life, we have known bones to be made of hard and rigid material. While that it is true, but do you think the material remains rigid throughout our life span? The answer is NO! Our body undergoes a constant make and breaks phenomenon, especially with the bone cells. And if the bone cells undergoing this phenomenon are in close proximity to our teeth, it can also pose negative effects on our teeth. The consequences are aplenty- drifting away of neighboring teeth or even tooth loss.
A smile without all the teeth shining brightly usually lacks the charm. When our tooth is lost, the bone surrounding it tends to get melted away. This can lead to an overall loss of bone. If statistics are to be believed, we lose as much as 25% of our bone mass tissue under empty spaces of our missing teeth in just one year. To prevent such a condition to prevail, one of the best methods is bone grafting. It is a small scale surgery wherein a small incision is made on the gum so as to reach the bone under it and subsequently fill it with the grafting material. There are many benefits of getting bone grafting done. Some of them are as follows:
<h2>1. BONE GRAFTS CAN PREVENT BONE LOSS:</h2>
That&rsquo;s the biggest plus point of the bone grafting phenomenon. The material used in bone grafting helps in keeping the bone intact and is enriched with bone minerals so as to let our bodies make new bone cells. However, this can be a short term solution, for a permanent solution one needs to get a dental implant done.
<h2>2. BONE GRAFTS PREPARE THE WAY FOR IMPLANTS:</h2>
Bone grafts serve two purposes- reducing bone loss and supporting <a href="https://www.smileselectdental.com/services/dental-implants-southern-california">dental implants</a>. The second purpose is served when implants are made on thinner bones. In such conditions, bone grafts extend support and keep the implants in place. The grafting material will not only join the existing bone but also stimulate the growth of new bone in order to lay a strong foundation for an implant. The healing process might take a couple of months for complete recovery.
<h2>3. BONE GRAFTS PREVENT YOUR GUM AND FACIAL FORMS:</h2>
Many people fear that bone grafts or implants will hamper their facial structure. But the reality is that when bone grafts and dental implants are done simultaneously, not only the shape of the face remains intact but it also helps in maintaining the health and hygiene of the gums and the mouth. Bone grafting is a great idea especially in the case missing tooth as it will help in restoring your smile whilst ensuring the hygiene of your mouth.
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