Everything There Is to Know about Bone Grafting
A dental bone graft is a procedure used to increase the amount of bone in a part of the jaw that has lost bone or requires additional support.
Bone from other parts of the body can be surgically fused to the existing bone in the jaw. However, sometimes synthetic bone substances can also be used.
If additional procedures, such as dental implants, are required, or if bone loss is affecting the health of surrounding gums and teeth, a dental bone graft may be necessary.
Do you want to learn more about dental bone grafting? Before deciding if the treatment is right for you, here is everything, you need to know about it.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe for Teenagers?
According to the American Academy of General Dentistry, it is recommended that parents should be aware about the certain risks associated with teeth whitening for teenagers under 18 years old and that they know the best options for them.
Unfortunately, many parents and teenagers still don’t know all the details regarding teeth whitening. Because of this, they may be using the product at a much younger age than recommended. This leads to potential problems down the road. If you’d like to know more, then read on to discover the important details.
What Are the Risks of Teenagers Getting Teeth Whitening?
Even though teeth whitening does have amazing results for adult teeth, it may not be for everyone, especially for teens, and there are some risks involved. Teeth whitening is a bleaching process that lightens the stains on the teeth, giving a brighter and whiter appearance. Teeth whitening may be performed at home or in a dentist’s office. During the whitening, the enamel surrounding the teeth will be softened by the whitening gels and light. The enamel is the white protective covering that surrounds each tooth. While teeth whitening for adults and teens will not reverse natural tooth decay, it can help with the discoloration of teeth that can be caused by sugary foods and drinks. However, teeth whitening isn’t safe for all teens to use. For teenagers, teeth whitening can cause shrinkage of the nerve root endings as their teeth are developing into permanent teeth. When they apply a teeth whitening agent before the permanent tooth emerges, they are putting their nerves at risk of becoming damaged, leading to an increase of tooth sensitivity. As a result, their teeth will become more sensitive to heat and cold. Along with nerve damage, a teenager’s teeth may become brittle because of the presence of the whitening agent. Aside from this, teeth whitening products tend to be stronger than what is used as an adult.What Are the Best Teeth Whitening Options for Teenagers?
The best options for teens that want to brighten their smile is to schedule an appointment at a dentist office to have professional teeth whitening (bleaching gels) done and using over-the-counter DIY teeth whitening kits. This is because both options have peroxide-based ingredients in the form of bleaching gels. Teeth whitening kits that can be purchased at the drugstore contain a strong hydrogen peroxide-based bleaching agent, which is also known as carbamide peroxide. When using this over-the-counter teeth whitening kit, you should avoid getting the bleaching agent on your gums or lips as it can cause tissue damage. Professional-grade bleaching gels contain 15 to 43 percent hydrogen peroxide while at home trays or DIY kits have three to 20 percent carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. Some of the over-the-counter teeth whitening bleaches include whitening toothpaste, whitening gels and strips, and whitening pens. Here are some other tips that your teenager can follow to avoid discoloration of their teeth and get whiter teeth for a long period of time.- Brush and floss teeth daily.
- Avoid drinking coffee, tea, or soda.
- Use a straw when drinking coffee or tea.
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products.
Conclusion
Despite most teens wanting to have a whiter smile, the risk that’s involved when using teeth whitening before the permanent teeth erupt is not worth it. So the best choice for teens is to have a custom professional teeth whitening done at a dentist office and using the over-the-counter teeth whitening kits to remove surface discoloration and stains. As a parent, you can help by discussing the risks of teeth whitening with your teenager and help them to be aware of some of the best options that they can use to achieve a brighter smile. Weston Dental Specialists Group has the best cosmetic dentists in Weston, MA that can help you achieve the brightest and whitest smiles without compromising the potential risks involved. We pride ourselves in providing the best dental experience for each and every patient. Let us help your teens achieve the smile they have always wanted. Schedule an appointment with us today!Why You Should Choose Invisalign Over Traditional Braces
Braces are not the only option anymore today when you want to have straight teeth. Now, you can have straight teeth with Invisalign, a cutting-edge technology that uses clear aligners to fix spacing issues, crowding, and bite imperfections. If you’re considering getting braces, check out these reasons you should go for Invisalign instead:
It is Easier to Clean
It is true that the traditional braces are hard to clean and maintain. Since they are visible, you will have to be extra careful not to let any food or liquid contact with your teeth. Otherwise, it won’t look so good. On the other hand, Invisalign is removable, and you should take them out when eating. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about getting food stuck in them; it makes cleaning easier.It is More Durable
Invisalign uses plastic aligners that can be replaced regularly. Because of this, it is more durable, less invasive, and painful than traditional braces. Because of the consistency of your teeth, Invisalign won’t destroy the enamel of your teeth, unlike traditional braces.It Doesn’t Have Food Restrictions
As mentioned, Invisalign is removable, enabling you to remove it before eating. That way, you get the freedom to eat everything you want. This means you will be able to eat more and won’t have to worry about getting the braces stuck on your food.It is More Comfortable
Invisalign has no sharp edges, unlike traditional braces that use brackets that can potentially irritate the cheeks. With Invisalign, you get smooth edges. You also don’t need to visit the dentist to have your dental appliance tightened. With Invisalign, you will be given multiple sets of aligners that you can change every two weeks, which is slightly adjusted from the previous one. You may feel a minor tightness when you put them on at first, but it will only last for more than a day or two.It’s Virtually Invisible
Invisalign aligners are designed to be virtually invisible. They are very thin and clear, making them practically invisible when you wear them, even when facing someone. If you want to stay discreet with your teeth straightening, Invisalign is your best option.It Ensures Fewer Trips to the Dentist
Braces necessitate multiple orthodontist visits to have the wires tightened. In contrast, patients with Invisalign are given a series of aligners to switch out as needed.It Is Less Invasive to Your Teeth
Traditional braces need to be tightly fitted to your teeth. In contrast, Invisalign aligners are designed to be removable, making them less invasive to your teeth. They are also made of a smoother material to prevent irritation to your gums. With traditional braces, you may have discomfort, gum irritation, and a mouth that is dry from the orthodontic wire, which is a common reason for patients to drop out of their treatment.Choose Invisalign
Braces are no longer the only option for patients who want to have straight teeth. If you’re considering getting your teeth straightened, you should consider getting Invisalign instead. It is less painful, lightweight, easy to clean and maintain, and invisible. Do you want to get Invisalign? Head on over to the best Weston dental care provider, then. Weston Dental Specialists Group is open for all dental care procedures. Book an appointment today.What You Need to Know about Sinus Augmentation Procedure
The sinuses are linked cavities of air located throughout the skull. When the sinuses are blocked or infected, this can lead to acute sinusitis, which can be very painful and prevent you from living your life normally. Sinus augmentation can bring breathable air back into your life.
Aside from this, a sinus augmentation can also be beneficial in dental implants. Having a dental implant is a great option for those who want to replace a missing tooth. However, the dental implant may not be able to fit in your mouth if your sinus is too shallow. This is where sinus augmentation can come to your rescue.
What Is Sinus Augmentation
A sinus augmentation is a surgical procedure used to raise the sinus floor and increase the height of the maxillary bones. This is often done in preparation for dental implants, as it can improve the stability of the implants and increase the success rate of the procedure. The sinus augmentation procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, though sedation may be used for patients who are anxious or have a low pain tolerance.When Sinus Augmentation Procedure Is Necessary
There are a few reasons why your dentist might recommend a sinus augmentation procedure. If you have suffered from tooth loss in the upper jaw, the sinuses may have collapsed, making it difficult to place dental implants. A sinus lift can restore the height of the sinuses and make it possible to place implants. If you have periodontitis, the infection can damage the bones supporting your teeth. This can lead to bone loss in the jaw, making it difficult to place implants. Sinus augmentation can add volume to the jawbone, making it possible to place implants. Sinus augmentation can also be used to prevent sinusitis. If you suffer from frequent sinus infections and your sinus cavities do not drain well, this procedure can improve the operation of their drainage system. This procedure is also ideal for patients with chronic sinusitis who have tried sinus medication, antibiotics, and other treatments, to no avail.How Sinus Augmentation Works
A sinus augmentation procedure can be performed on one or both sides of your face. First, your surgeon will prepare the area by removing any infected or damaged bone. This will ease the procedure and prevent complications. The surgeon will then carefully remove a thin layer of bone from the maxillary sinus walls. Next, the surgeon will use graft material to add volume to the sinus cavities. This graft material can be made of bone, cartilage, or synthetic materials. The graft will be secured in place with titanium screws, which will be left in your jawbone permanently.How Long Will the Recovery Period Last
The surgery was performed under local anesthesia, so you can go home on the same day. You may experience some mild pain and swelling, but your doctor will prescribe pain medication and antibiotics to help manage these symptoms. Continue to take your medications as prescribed by your doctor and follow all of his or her instructions closely. Your doctor may recommend that you take antibiotics before dental procedures to prevent infection. You should also avoid smoking or drinking alcohol for at least six weeks and follow a strict oral hygiene routine. Getting back to your normal routine will take time, so give yourself at least two weeks before trying to return to work or school.What Are the Benefits of Sinus Augmentation
The main benefit of sinus augmentation is that it can increase the success rate of dental implants. Sinus augmentation can help to restore the height of the sinuses, allowing for more space for the implants. It can also help to stabilize the implants by preventing them from shifting or moving. Sinus augmentation can also open up the sinus cavities, which can prevent sinusitis. This procedure can improve the operation of the sinuses and prevent them from becoming blocked or inflamed. As a result, a sinus augmentation can help to prevent chronic sinusitis, which can be difficult to treat with medication.Conclusion
A sinus augmentation is a great procedure for those who have suffered from tooth loss or are struggling to manage sinusitis. This procedure can improve the height of the sinuses, which will make it possible for you to place dental implants. If you are considering placing dental implants but have been prevented from doing so due to the sinuses, a sinus augmentation can be your best option. At Weston Dental Specialists Group, we provide a variety of dental procedures, including sinus augmentation, with the help of the best dentists in Weston, MA. Let us help you regain the smile you deserve! Schedule an appointment today!Understanding Cosmetic Bonding and How It Can Help You
Your teeth are constantly visible whether you’re smiling, laughing at a joke, or simply conversing with a buddy. Unfortunately, flaws like chipped, stained, or discolored teeth are all too prevalent and can detract from the appearance of a smile.
When you’re self-conscious about the appearance of your smile due to tiny flaws, your self-esteem may suffer. But don’t lose hope—cosmetic dental bonding can fix those issues, so you can feel free to flash your pearly whites.
In this article, we will run you through everything you need to know about cosmetic bonding and whether it will work for you.
Understanding Cosmetic Bonding
Tooth bonding is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that includes coating your teeth with a custom-colored composite resin. It can help with a variety of issues, including:- Gaps in between the teeth
- Irregularly formed or chipped teeth
- Teeth that are broken or fractured
- Degradation and discoloration of teeth due to tooth decay
- Teeth that are too short
- Exposed roots due to receding gum lines
Preparing for the Procedure
Dental bonding requires little to no preparation on your part. Ensure your teeth are clean and flossed when arriving at the dentist’s office. The bonding resin will then be prepared, and your dentist will choose a color that matches your teeth. The resin is a putty-like substance that can be molded into forms that fit your teeth best. If the dentist needs to drill out and smooth down your teeth, or if the damaged region is close to a nerve, a local anesthetic may be necessary. However, you won’t require an anesthetic if you’re simply having simple repairs.The Procedure
Roughening the tooth’s surface is the first step in the bonding process. The cosmetic dentist will apply a conditioning solution to your teeth to aid the resin’s adhesion. The resin will then be applied to your teeth and molded into form. After smoothing it down, the dentist will shine a strong light on the resin. UVA rays are used under this light to cure and solidify the resin in seconds. Finally, the resin will be smoothed and trimmed until it feels and looks natural in your mouth. Depending on the complexity of the case, the treatment might take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour per tooth.Care after the Procedure
You may suffer tooth sensitivity for a few days following your bonding operation, especially if the enamel is removed. Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed and eat light, soft foods that aren’t too hot or cold to help with this. Apart from that, keep brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day as usual.How Long Can You Expect the Results to Last?
It’s vital to note that the bonding resin isn’t as strong as your natural teeth. As a result, you’ll need to avoid activities that might harm your teeth. Simply put, chewing on ice, biting pens and pencils, and chewing your fingernails are bad habits you need to stop doing. Grinding can cause the resin to wear down and chip off considerably faster than regular wear and tear. If you grind your teeth at night, you might consider investing in a night mouth guard.Conclusion
Cosmetic dental bonding is an effective and relatively easy way to improve the appearance of your teeth. Cosmetic bonding might be an excellent option if you’re looking to fill in gaps between your teeth or repair a chipped tooth. Are you looking for Weston, MA dentists? Weston Dental Specialists Group specializes in smile restoration through various cosmetic dentistry services. Request an appointment today!5 Most Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Dental Bridges
It’s natural to be curious about things you may not understand, especially if such products, concepts, or applications, are involved in your health and everyday life. Specifically, with your dental health, it’s best to be fully informed about different procedures by your dental professional.
When it comes to the subject of dental bridges, there are a lot of questions that you may have. Here are the five main FAQs regarding this dental solution:
1) What’s a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is defined as an artificial replacement of a tooth, or even a set of teeth, made of either metal or porcelain. This is usually used as a dental restoration solution for any missing tooth or teeth. Essentially, the dental bridge is built up of abutments held by crowns. Since this artificial tooth is used as a replacement, it is only natural that one needs to regularly have good oral hygiene and visit their dentist.2) What’s the Lifespan of a Dental Bridge?
The lifespan of a dental bridge typically depends on several factors, such as one’s dental hygiene and the material used for the bridge. After all, medical breakthroughs have made it possible for dental bridges to last up to 10 years, and almost 30 years maximum. However, there are cases where dental bridges will need to be repaired or replaced after 15 years because of factors such as tooth decay and oral problems. Also, those using poor oral hygiene will have to face the risk of premature wear and tear.3) What’s the Care Plan for a Dental Bridge?
As implied in the previous point, it is crucial to note that dental bridges are not designed to be in place forever. As such, you need to follow a specific dental care plan in order to support the dental bridge that you have. Special care must be provided, especially when cleaning your teeth. You need to do it almost twice as often as you usually do. This is in addition to regular visits to your dental professional for cleaning sessions.4) What Are the Advantages of Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge can basically replace a single tooth or even multiple teeth with one artificial tooth. This is a great advantage, especially if the bridge is made of high-quality materials and can last for a long time. A dental bridge will also prevent teeth from moving around or rubbing against each other. After all, having such motion can cause pain, headaches, and discomfort to a person in its absence. There’s also the added risk of jaw bone damage and loss.5) What Are the Disadvantages of Dental Bridges?
For most people, having a dental bridge is a great option for their situation. There are very few disadvantages to dental bridges as long as you’re connecting with a licensed dental clinic that will administer its application properly. One apparent downside is the shift in speech, as dental bridges can require an adjustment time. However, after getting used to the sensation of speaking with replacement teeth, any speech issues prior to getting dental bridges are actually corrected.Conclusion
If you don’t want to go for expensive and corrective dental procedures, restorative dentistry can be an ideal route. With the growing case of tooth loss and the fact that dental costs aren’t easily affordable, it would be wise to consider getting dental bridges. Looking to get a dental bridge in Weston, MA? Weston Dental Specialists Group under the New England DMD Group is open for all dental care procedures. Get in touch with us today!How Often Should You Get Teeth Whitening Done at the Dentist?
Professional teeth whitening is excellent at erasing years of stains and discoloration. Whether you want to increase your confidence or are attending a wedding, reunion, or other major occasions, a bright and white grin will make you seem better.
How Often Should You Have Your Teeth Whitened?
When it comes to teeth whitening, it’s not usually a one-and-done scenario. In an ideal world, we’d be able to whiten our teeth once and have them stay that way in terms of color and health permanently. That, unfortunately, is not the case. They require maintenance, like the way your other body parts do! So, how often should you get your teeth whitened? In general, it’s a good idea to visit your dentist for teeth whitening treatments once per quarter, or every three months. This is true even if you haven’t observed a significant dulling of your grin. This allows the dentist to examine your teeth and detect any issues that the whitening effects may have concealed. When you have your teeth whitened, it might make cavities or tooth damage more difficult to detect. Your dentist may also touch up your whitening procedure, giving you an even brighter smile! This is the ideal way to ensure that you have not only a beautiful but also a healthy smile.How Can I Extend the Life of My Teeth Whitening Between Visits?
Three months may appear to be a short time, yet a lot changes to our teeth during that time. If you want to safeguard your teeth in the meanwhile, there are a few best practices you can do to keep your treatment looking like you just left the dentist’s office until you can return for a new one.1. Don’t Smoke
Smoking can actually make teeth appear more yellow than they already are, thanks to the tar and other chemicals that get stuck in the teeth. This makes teeth whitening less effective, and can even damage your enamel. Make sure you kick the habit for the good of your teeth, and then you’ll be able to enjoy a more bright and beautiful smile.2. Don’t Get Dark Drinks
When you go out to happy hour after work, don’t order a dark beer or dark wine! That’s because these can stain your teeth and make you think you need to go see the dentist earlier.3. Brush after Meals
Brushing regularly goes a long way, not just for whitening your teeth but also for keeping them in good overall health. This is especially true if you eat a lot of foods and drinks that can stain your teeth. You’ll be amazed at how much dirt and germs you’re removing from your teeth by maintaining good dental hygiene.4. Opt to Use Straws Instead
Drinking through straws while you’re out can also be a great way to keep your teeth protected. They won’t be stained as much if you use a straw, and you’ll also be able to avoid staining items you might be holding if you use a straw.5. Don’t Skip Your Regular Appointments
As we mentioned earlier, the best way to keep your whitening treatment looking great is to go back to the dentist regularly. This might be once every three months or so, depending on the case. Don’t let your teeth go unchecked for too long, or you’ll end up needing a touch-up sooner than you thought!Conclusion
Teeth whitening is a great way to boost your self-confidence and to really show off your smile. While there are many different types of teeth whitening processes out there, we always recommend going to your dentist for a consultation to understand which treatment is right for you. Remember, if you take care of your teeth at home, then you won’t have to worry so much about the results of your whitening and can have the confidence that you always wanted. If you’ve recently been searching Google for “teeth whitening near me,” look no further. The Weston Dental Specialists Group provides all of the latest general dentistry, cosmetic, and prosthodontics treatments and procedures under one roof for patients of every age, including treatments for dental emergencies. Request an appointment today!You Need a Tooth Extraction When You Notice These Signs
A loose milk tooth isn’t the only reason you need extraction from a dentist. That being said, tooth extractions aren’t just for kids, too. Even full-blown adults require this dental procedure according to these six reasons:
Crowding
Not having enough space for your teeth in your mouth causes them to be crooked and displaced, which is a condition also known as crowding. This can lead to:- Cavities and gum disease.
- Discomfort and pain while eating.
- Difficulty chewing food properly.
Gum Problems
Poor oral hygiene affects both your teeth and gums, leading to a need for extraction. This leads to periodontal disease, where bacteria eat away at the bony material supporting your teeth. Eventually, this leads to teeth rotting away, making chewing and talking more challenging. What’s more, the bacterial infection can also spread from tooth to tooth when not removed immediately! Your dentist may schedule you for tooth removal when:- The tooth is excessively abscessed and cannot be drained.
- The tooth is loose and lacks support.
- The disease has spread to the bone, other teeth, or soft tissue.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
If a wisdom tooth does not erupt properly, it will be referred to as impacted wisdom teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth must be removed to avoid further problems. One of two scenarios can happen here:- The dentist extracts an already-visible tooth to give the wisdom teeth more space to come out.
- The dentist may remove the impacted teeth instead to retain the alignment of your visible pearly whites.
Irreparably Broken or Chipped Teeth
Teeth can break either from injury or accident. Your dentist can repair broken teeth through procedures like crowns in most cases. However, this may not be possible in extreme cases, such as where the tooth has broken off below the gum line. Thus, the only solution is surgically removing the entire chipped tooth from the gumline.Pain
Not all tooth pain means you need to head to the dentist for an extraction. It could be a cavity or tooth sensitivity; still, there are some cases when you need to get a tooth pulled if:- The tooth is still painful after a filling or root canal treatment.
- You have an infection.
- The tooth is too damaged to be restored, period.
Tooth Decay
Suppose a tooth is so damaged by tooth decay that root canals or fillings are impossible. Therefore, the tooth may need to be extracted to relieve pain and stop the spread of any infection to other teeth and gums or reduce the recurrence of periodontal disease.Solutions for Extracted Permanent Teeth
For kids, extracted milk teeth are no problem since the permanent ones take their place. But in the case of adults with permanent teeth, your dentist may recommend a dental implant or a bridge to replace the natural tooth and restore proper function.Only Tooth Extractions from a Dentist Will Do
Whether you’re an adult with the above signs or have a kid with a loose tooth, don’t pull teeth out on your own. You could inadvertently cause more damage and still go to a dentist. So set your appointment and talk to a medical professional to get to the bottom of these persistent problems with your pearly whites. At Weston Dental Specialists Group, you get the best dental care in Massachusetts. Our dentists are architects of smile restoration, using only the most advanced technologies for restoring and replacing teeth. Visit our website to know more about our dental services.The Best Need-To-Know Benefits of Getting Dental Veneers
Would you like to refine your smile? Do you feel self-conscious about your smile because you tend to cover your teeth when you smile? If you have problems with chipped, discolored, unevenly spaced, or misshapen teeth, dental veneers might be the solution. This procedure is one of the most popular ones performed in cosmetic dentistry because there are several potential benefits.
The Best Need-To-Know Benefits of Getting Dental Veneers
1 – Easy Solution for the Repair of Teeth
Are the teeth in your mouth pointed or jagged? Have you had a tooth that has had a cavity that was filled over the years? If you have an unsightly tooth, dental veneers might be an easy solution to your problem.2 – A Long-Lasting Treatment Option
Unlike other cosmetic procedures, dental veneers are durable. The process of placing veneers involves cementing them onto the teeth of your mouth. The durability of veneers makes them a worthy investment for cosmetic improvements.3 – Preservation of Natural Teeth
Are you worried about the loss of your teeth? Do you have concerns about the replacement of your teeth with porcelain teeth? Dental veneers can work with your natural teeth. This means that the procedure preserves the structure of your teeth, and the underlying teeth will remain intact.4 – Optimum Smile Enhancement
Are you unhappy with the appearance of your teeth? Did you have problems with the color of your teeth? Did you have problems with the shape of your smile? Dental veneers can enhance your smile by helping to correct any imperfections you might be wary about and breathe a whole new life into your smile.5 – Minimally Invasive Procedure
Are you wary about the pain involved in cosmetic dentistry? If you had to go through reconstructive surgery, you would need to go under general anesthesia. Do you have problems with panic attacks and other anxiety-laden side effects? Dental veneers are a minimally invasive option that is performed under local anesthesia. You can expect to feel little to no pain with the procedure.6 – Easy Maintenance
Are you worried about the upkeep of your veneers? Are you worried you will have to constantly go to the dentist’s office to have your veneers maintained and repaired? You can have your veneers maintained by your dentist, or you can opt to take care of your veneers yourself. Regular cleaning of your veneers will keep them looking good.7 – Viable Treatment for Enamel Loss
Are you worried about the loss of your teeth because you have problems with enamel loss? Dental veneers are a viable option for enamel loss because your dentist can use the procedure to cover the loss.8 – Favorable Option for Discolored Teeth and Teeth with Chips
Are you worried about the appearance of your teeth? Dental veneers are a viable option for correcting discoloration on your teeth or for repairing chipped teeth.Conclusion
You can expect a smile transformation with veneers. With this procedure, you can expect to have teeth that are more aesthetically pleasing. Are you ready to start feeling your best self? If so, consider getting dental veneers as a viable option. To find out more about dental veneers in Weston, MA, contact Weston Dental Specialists Group. We are open to ALL dental care procedures and are ready to help you today!4 Facts About Dental Crowns That You Have to Know About
Do you have a damaged, weakened, or decayed tooth? From cavities to physical injuries, many factors can compromise a tooth’s structure. If you need a crown to strengthen it, we can help. If you are not familiar with dental crowns, we’ve outlined four interesting facts about this restorative dental treatment below.