Tooth loss can happen at any age whether it’s through an accident or the natural process of aging. Whatever reason it may be, the loss of a tooth for most people results in a lowered self-esteem and even embarrassment. Luckily, with the rise of technology and professionals dedicating themselves to improving lives, dental implants can fix all of these problems. Unfortunately, like with most things, there are always restrictions and barriers that may prevent them from receiving dental implants. One of them, namely, is their age.

Surprisingly, those most affected by the age restriction are individuals on the younger side of the age spectrum. Children and teens are more likely to lose their adult teeth through an accident or poor oral hygiene, but if they’re considering dental implants, they may have to wait until they are 18 or 19 as dental implants require the patient to have a fully developed jaw. As children grow, their bones change shape until they reach adulthood and inserting dental implants before that happens could result in major complications and require even more dental work to fix. However, every human is unique and only an x-ray can determine if the bones have fully formed and the patient is a candidate for dental implants.

Good news for adults and seniors! There is absolutely no age cap for dental implants as they have proven to be successful in patients in their 80’s and even into their 90’s. Of course, a patient’s health is the first and foremost concern, but if the patient has no outstanding health issues, it is almost guaranteed that they will be accepted for the procedure.

So generally, in conclusion, there is no “right” or “best” time to get dental implants. Everyone’s situation is unique and is always considered when making a major decision like this, and only your dentist can determine if it is the right procedure for you.

Want even more information on dental implants? Contact your dental professional and book a complimentary consultation today.

When you think of cavities, you often associate them with children. Their sugar rich snack life of soda, chocolate bars, and coated candies leave their teeth extremely susceptible to tooth decay, but children are not the only ones who fall victim to this. In fact, anyone who consumes any form of sugar is at risk for cavities, and some may be more prone to them than others depending on a multitude of factors.

Before we get into those, however, it’s important to know exactly what a cavity is. Essentially, a cavity is a small hole in your tooth caused by the breakdown of enamel, which is the outer layer of your tooth. The plaque on your teeth absorb any sugars that you eat and produce acid that wear away at the enamel until a hole forms. This hole will need to be filled and fixed by your dentist as there is no way to repair them at home.

So, how do you know if you have a cavity? The signs and symptoms of cavities will vary, and you often won’t know in the beginning stages that you have one, but as time goes on and the cavity becomes more noticeable, you may experience:

  • Spontaneous tooth pain or discomfort
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold foods/drinks
  • Sharp pains
  • Holes in your teeth
  • Pain when you chew

As far as the people who are more prone to getting cavities, studies have shown that the following factors put an individual more at risk:

  • Inadequate brushing
  • Age
  • Dry mouth
  • Heartburn
  • Eating disorders
  • Certain medications

Taking proper care of your teeth and attending your bi-annual check ups are very important in reducing your risk of cavities. Talk to your dentist for a detailed prevention plan if you happen to be prone for cavities.

We’ve all been in this situation before. Your dental cleaning is going on as normal and then, out of the corner of your eye, you see your dental hygienist pick up The Tool. You know the one. It’s sharp and curvy with the potential of making your gums bleed and make your teeth feel like they’re going to fall out of your mouth when you come home half an hour later, and it’s all because your dental hygienist found tartar on your teeth. It doesn’t have to be this way though because today we’re going to talk about the differences between plaque, tartar, and how you can avoid buildup and save yourself from gum disease.

 

The first stage begins with plaque.  Certain foods cause more plaque buildup than others such as foods loaded with carbohydrates, as well as sweets and candies. You can’t see it because it is colourless, though sometimes it can also turn a very pale yellow, but it’s the sticky film that constantly grows on the surface of your teeth. Inside this film dwells bacteria which has the potential to cause tooth decay and irritate your gums, resulting in swelling and redness. Don’t worry too much, though. Plaque can easily be removed from your teeth by regular brushing, but it is when the plaque is not removed that it becomes an issue.

 

In the second stage, the film can harden to create tartar (also known as calculus) which unfortunately cannot be removed by a toothbrush and floss, and must instead be removed by a dental hygienist with that horrible tool that we mentioned earlier. Therefore, it is recommended to brush your teeth twice a day and keep up with regular flossing to ensure that the buildup doesn’t have a chance to take place.

The third stage can be a multitude of things, some more serious than others, but no more desirable to have. If tartar and plaque are not removed, they can lead to issues including:

  • Cavities
  • Gingivitis (in some cases can lead to periodontitis)
  • Halitosis (commonly known as bad breath)

Both cavities and gingivitis will be covered in detail in the weeks to come, but in the meantime, please keep up with your good brushing habits to keep your teeth and gums in optimal health. If you need a refresher course on proper brushing and flossing techniques, check out this blog.

The removal of wisdom teeth is a highly debatable topic in the dentistry world with everyone having their own opinion on if they actually need to be extracted. Societal norm says yes, once your wisdom teeth come in then you need to immediately get in touch with a dental surgeon and get them removed ASAP. But is it really necessary? Let’s find out.

 

What is a Wisdom Tooth?

 

Before we begin to cover whether they should be kept in your mouth or not, you need to know what a wisdom tooth actually is. Your wisdom teeth are your third and final set of molars that start to make an appearance after the majority of your adult teeth have come in, but some people don’t develop them at all. For those that do, the actual timeframe varies, but the most common age when wisdom teeth begin to be noticeable is around the late teen to early adult age. They are usually found on x-rays during your bi-annual cleaning. Individuals will begin to feel pain and discomfort at the very back of their gums, similar to an intense toothache. This is the wisdom tooth attempting to break through the surface of the gum, but the pain will be more severe if the wisdom tooth becomes impacted or is growing in crooked.

 

Why do we have Wisdom Teeth?

 

Anthropologists hypothesize that wisdom teeth aided our ancestors when they needed to break down much more tough and raw food, but nowadays they don’t seem to serve much of a purpose with the invention of stoves, ovens, and various other cooking machinery. Modern food is much easier to chew and process and thus, wisdom teeth have outgrown their purpose, much like our appendixes.

 

Can I Keep my Wisdom Teeth Intact?

 

Honestly, at the end of the day, it is your call. You have personal autonomy over your body which means that you can make the decision that is best for you. If your wisdom teeth are growing in just fine with minimal pain and don’t cause problems for the surrounding teeth, then there should be no reason why you wouldn’t be allowed to keep them. It just means that you have to take care of them as you do with the rest of your teeth, keeping them free of bacteria and providing daily cleaning. However, wisdom teeth that are unable to break through the gumline and become impacted are a major health risk and definitely should be removed. Wisdom teeth that grow in crooked and cause crowding, risking the health of the surrounding teeth, should also be considered for immediate extraction.

 

What is the Extraction Process?

 

Extraction takes very little of your time and is a relatively simple procedure, granted that there are no complications with the way that your tooth is growing. A local anesthetic is applied, but for more squeamish patients, a temporary sedative can also be an option to keep them more comfortable. Your dental surgeon will go over all the details and make the procedure as comfortable and pain-free as possible.

 

What About the Healing Process?

 

Time will vary from patient to patient, but full healing could take anywhere from a couple weeks to a month, depending on the circumstances surrounding the extraction. During this time, it is best to eat foods that are not to difficult to chew and avoid using straws as that causes suction and could tear the stitches or increase bleeding. Once again, your dental surgeon will provide you with complete post-op care instructions to ensure that your healing goes smoothly. If non-dissolvable stitches were used, they will be removed a week later when your dentist checks on the status of your teeth.

 

Conclusion

 

Work with your dentist to find out the best option for you. Your comfort and oral health should always be the priority during this time and it’s important to know all the facts. If you have any questions about your oral health, the state of your wisdom teeth, or other dental related questions, navigate to the ‘Contact’ section of our website and schedule a complimentary consultation today.

 

The New Year is upon us in less than a month and that means it’s time to start thinking about your New Year’s Resolutions. Whether or not you believe that this is the only time to reinvent yourself and change your habits and routine, it is not a bad idea to reflect on all aspects of your life, including your healthcare plans and professionals.

 

Now, we’re not saying that your dentist is not a good one and we are the only option out there worth considering, but here are some things about Newbury Smiles that set us apart from the rest.

 

For starters, while most dentists choose between general dentistry and cosmetic surgery, Dr. Sam Saadat specializes in both, making his clinic a one-stop shop for all of your dental needs. This makes it especially convenient for clients who want dual services as it saves them the time of being referred to a specialist and having to travel to different clinics for each procedure. With this dual specialization as well, patients have their records all in one place, and since the clinic is familiar with their teeth and previous dental treatments, recommendations for cosmetic procedures will come from familiar sources. Having someone the patient is already familiar and comfortable with will put them at ease, and make them more trusting that the procedure is the right one for them and not just a money grab.

 

Dr. Saadat has also built a stellar reputation in the dentistry world thanks to his vast knowledge in the art of dentistry, his attention to detail, and his pleasant demeanor. He is well versed in the latest technology and dental procedures, and he looks forward to working with patients who have challenging cases. He focuses on providing his patients with comfort, personalized care and the most superior and technologically advanced services available. He excels at using modern day technologies, such as CEREC (same day crowns), 3D Imaging (cone beam), painless anesthesia techniques, and lasers. Dr. Saadat is also a preferred Invisalign provider and routinely monitors for sleep apnea and snoring among his patients. He is committed to giving his patients the best care possible.

 

With the New Year fast approaching, we’d also like to take a quick moment and remind everyone how important keeping up with your bi-annual cleaning is. Routine dental checkups are vital to good oral hygiene and are the best way to detect problems at their earliest stages. Early detection and treatment also save you from unnecessary discomfort and monetary costs.

 

If you make the switch to Newbury Smiles this coming January, new patients can have an exam, X-Ray, and a full teeth cleaning for just $99.

 

To get started with us and see for yourself why Newbury Smiles continuously produces 5 star reviews, navigate to the New Patient tab on our website and fill out an online questionnaire.

 

We wish you Happy Holidays and hope to see you in the New Year.

Earlier this week, we talked about flossing and how important it is in your daily routine in order to maintain optimal oral and physical health. Today, we’re going to expand on that and go over proper brushing and flossing techniques to ensure that it is being done correctly and effectively.

 

Let’s start with flossing, since that should come first.

 

  1. Start by taking a piece of floss that is equal to the length of your forearm. Some flosses come pre-cut which is useful.
  2. Wrap the floss around your index and middle fingers, leaving around two inches of space to use on your teeth.
  3. Wiggle the floss between your teeth, wrapping it into a “C” shape around the bottom of a tooth and gently under the base on the gumline. Repeat this 2-3 times per tooth, making sure not to forget the back of your teeth as well. Move down the line of floss as it begins to weaken or fray.

 

After flossing, brush your teeth to remove the particles that you have uprooted from between them. Preferably, you should brush after every meal, but as long as you’re doing it at least once a day before bed, you should be safe. Like flossing, there is a proper way to brush your teeth to ensure maximum efficacy.

 

  1. Start by angling your brush at a 45 degree angle, focusing on the area where the teeth and gums meet.

  2. Use a gentle, circular motion, moving your brush up and down the surface of the tooth. Be careful and don’t scrub, as it damages the gums and results in premature gum recession.

  3. DO NOT RUSH. Brushing your teeth should take at least 2-3 minutes for a thorough cleaning. Try timing yourself, or play your current favorite song and brush until it is over.

  4. Finish by swishing a mouthwash around your mouth to remove any remaining bacteria and food particles. DO NOT SWALLOW.

 

Other helpful tips:

 

  1. Flossing can be a hard routine to get into, especially since it is a time-consuming repetitive task. We recommend flossing while you watch TV at night.

  2. Your gums will bleed when you first start flossing as they’re not used to it. The bleeding should stop after 2-3 days of continuous flossing.

  3. Those with braces may have a harder time with these tasks. Specialized toothbrushes and flossing methods are available for you, providing by your dentist.

  4. Choose a toothbrush with soft, rounded bristles, and replace it every 3 months.

 

This is a general guide and results will vary with each individual. For more information, contact your family dentist for all questions and concerns.

If the last time you flossed was when your dentist did it during your bi-annual cleaning, you may want to think about making it an early New Year’s Resolution and driving to your nearest pharmacy for a pack.

 

Even if you brush your teeth the recommended three times a day, it is still not enough. In fact, flossing is considered to be even more important than standard brushing alone as it removes bacteria from between the teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach. If that bacteria is left to develop, it becomes plaque which is the predecessor of tartar, which then eventually leads to tooth decay and even tooth loss.

 

If tooth decay and tooth loss wasn’t enough to convince you to floss, take a look at these other health problems that can develop from a lack of proper oral hygiene:

  • Halitosis (bad breath)
  • Gingivitis (Inflammation of the dums)
  • Periodontal Disease
  • Gum disease
  • Cavities
  • Heart problems
  • Increased risk of dementia
  • Increased risk of head and neck cancers

The last few are extreme cases, but still shown to be linked to poor oral hygiene. Despite these facts, it is estimated that at least one-third of Americans do not floss, and even more do not have a consistent brushing routine.

 

It is never too late to start, though. Later this week, we will go over proper flossing and brushing techniques so you can be on your way to a happy, healthier mouth.

 

If you have questions until then, Dr. Sam Saddat and his team are more than happy to answer any that you may have. Get in touch with them by clicking on ‘CONTACT’ on the homepage.

So, you’ve gotten into an accident and now you’re missing a few teeth, or maybe age has caught up with you and some of your teeth just aren’t quite what they used to be. Luckily, you have some options when it comes to restoring your smile. Let’s take a brief look at a couple of procedures: implants and bridges.

 

Let’s start with implants.

 

What is an Implant?

 

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root made typically out of titanium that is inserted into the jawbone where the real tooth was previously located. Over a lengthy process of about six months, the artificial root fuses with the surrounding tissue to create a solid foundation for the temporary crown that is placed on top. After that, the gums continue to form and morph themselves around the structure, finalizing in a way that looks completely natural. Once this process is complete, a permanent crown will take the place of the temporary one.

 

What is a Bridge?

 

A dental bridge is exactly what it sounds like. Unlike implants which replace the whole tooth root, a bridge ‘bridges’ the space between teeth, connecting to the adjacent teeth. The surrounding teeth provide support for the new crown that is placed. In order to do that, however, the supporting teeth may have to be permanently altered and filed down to achieve optimum results.

 

Am I a Candidate?

 

Well, that depends. A consultation with your dentist will confirm which is best, but there are a number of factors standing in the way of your candidacy for each procedure.

 

For implants, the candidate must have fully matured, meaning that there will be no more developmental bone growth for them to go through. X-Rays and CT Scans will determine whether or not there is enough bone structure in order for an implant to be inserted. Bone density and quality are both major contributing factors to being accepted for this procedure. Patients who smoke will need to quit in order to be considered as smoking results in a higher rate of implant failure. Those who also suffer from cancer, periodontal disease, or diabetes may need to go through extra steps before they qualify as candidates.

 

In terms of candidacy, dental bridges are a little more lenient because of their less invasive nature. However, those who are missing multiple teeth will not be able to have this done as dental bridges rely on the surrounding teeth for support. Teeth which have chips, cracks, are in a state of decay, or are not stable will have to go through additional steps and treatments before a dental bridge can be considered.

 

Cost Considerations

 

Especially with elective cosmetic procedures which are not covered under insurance, the cost of treatments can greatly sway a patient’s opinion on which treatment to opt in for.

 

Implants are the more costly of the two, ranging in price from $900 to $3,000 per implant, while bridges are far less expensive, ranging from $700 to $1,500. These costs only cover the implant itself, and do not include any additional appointments that may be required either before or after the treatment itself. Your dentist will be able to provide you with a more clear and concise breakdown of costs during a consultation.

 

In the case of implants and bridges, it is important to consider the long-term benefits. Yes, bridges do cost less, are much less invasive, and the procedure is far shorter, but the main reason that patients choose implants is durability. Dental bridges, if cared for properly, can have a lifespan of 10 to 20 years before they need to be replaced, whereas implants will typically last well over 40 years. It is important to evaluate your unique circumstances and weigh your options carefully as replacing bridges throughout your lifetime could go well over the cost of an implant.

 

Speak with your dentist about your options, find out if they offer a payment plan, and ask questions for a complete and thorough evaluation.

It’s a fact of life that perfect teeth do not come to the majority of us naturally. In fact, there’s an estimated 75% chance that a child between the ages of 10-13 will need some sort of orthodontic intervention in their life. But braces are not just for children anymore. Adult braces are on the rise as well for those who never had the opportunity as a child, or for the small percentage who neglected to properly wear their post-braces retainer and their teeth shifted back to their previous state. No matter which category you fall under, there is help out there, and with the rise and advancement of technology, you now have a choice: traditional braces or Invisalign? By the end of this article, you will hopefully have a clear, informed decision on which to choose.

 

Let’s start with traditional braces. These are metal brackets that sit on the surface of the tooth and are connected by a wire, but have come a long way from being the famous “metal-mouth” braces of the past. The ones nowadays have smaller brackets which are less noticeable, and have the option of having an “archwire”–a wire that is heat activated by your body’s natural heat to make the process of moving your teeth not only faster, but less painful as well.

 

Pros of Traditional Metal Braces:

  • Less treatment time
  • Able to correct severe cases
  • For the kids and fun-loving adults: interchangeable, colourful elastic bands
  • No risk of losing them
  • Inexpensive
  • Suitable for all ages

 

Cons of Traditional Metal Braces:

  • Very noticeable for those concerned with this
  • Time consuming to clean around
  • Food restrictions: gum, popcorn, caramel candies, anything that is really sticky or hard is not recommended as they can damage the braces
  • Have the potential to irritate or cut the inside of your lips and cheeks

 

There is a non-metal version in the traditional brace family where they use ceramic instead of metal. Ceramic braces are identical to the metal ones in terms of shape and their function, but the brackets and wires are clear or tooth coloured for a more subtle appearance. However, they come with their own pros and cons.

 

Pros of Ceramic Braces:

  • Less noticeable
  • Lessen the potential to cut the inside of the lips and cheeks
  • Less treatment time (the same as traditional metal)
  • No risk of losing them

 

Cons of Ceramic Braces:

  • Unable to be used for very severe cases
  • More expensive than the metal variety
  • Difficult to maintain–high chance of staining so frequent brushing is a MUST
  • Not recommended for children or young teenagers

 

The third and final option in the traditional brace family are lingual braces, also known as incognito or hidden braces. While traditional braces are placed on the outside of the teeth, lingual braces are fitted behind the teeth for a completely hidden appearance. As with everything, they come with their own unique benefits and challenges.

 

Pros of Lingual Braces:

  • Completely unnoticeable
  • Suitable for all ages and most patients
  • Less treatment time (same as metal and ceramic)
  • No risk of losing them

 

Cons of Lingual Braces:

  • Tongue irritation from constant contact
  • Possible speech impediment (only lasts about 2-3 weeks)
  • Hygiene and cleanliness issues (it’s much harder to see trapped food)
  • Costly

 

Not a huge fan of having something metal constantly in your mouth and limiting your food choices? Luckily, there is a removable and cost-effective option called Invisalign. Becoming one of the most popular choices for tooth correction nowadays, Invisalign is more accessible than ever. To see if it is right for you, here are some of the pros and cons that come with this treatment:

 

Pros of Invisalign:

  • Completely unnoticeable
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Able to remove during meals
  • Affordable*
  • Easy to clean and maintain

 

Cons of Invisalign:

  • Expensive*
  • Inconvenient for busy adults/teens
  • 22 hour/day requirement
  • Tooth discomfort after each new set

 

*Affordability varies as the cost for Invisalign is on a case to case basis. The more severe a correction needs to be, the more costly they will be as it is not covered by dental insurance. However with Invisalign becoming more and more popular, Newbury Smiles has frequent promotions to make it more accessible to all clients. A quick consultation will help map out the exact costs and what to expect.

 

Hopefully this guide has given you a better insight into the world of tooth alignment correction. Please note that not all benefits and cons are listed here and you may have a different experience than others as what works for one person may not work for you. Your dentist will be able to determine which is best for you based on a number of factors, and can answer any questions you may have.

 

To set up a free consultation, please contact Dr. Sam Saddat and his team at +1 805-499-3691

No one is a stranger to mouth pain, especially to those who do not keep up with regular brushing and flossing and exit the dentist’s office with sore, puffy gums after a routine cleaning. But while that pain goes away within the hour, some pain is longer lasting and may be present as a dull ache for days after an in-depth procedure. This can disrupt one’s day and make even the simplest of tasks that much harder to do. Here are a few tips and tricks to reduce your dental pain:

  • Acetaminophen/Ibuprofen: These are the most common type of pain relievers, often a go-to for headaches and general body pains, which includes tooth pain as well. You can get them over-the-counter (OTC) at most grocery stores in the pharmacy section. Always read and follow the label to be sure these products are right for you as those under a certain age and those with certain health conditions are not able to take them. Patients that have undergone a wisdom tooth extraction or something similar in which bleeding was involved are advised to stay away from Asprin as a relief as it is a blood thinner and complicates the healing process.
  • Ora-Jel: For something more targeted and topical, trust Ora-jel to get the job done. Available in a wide variety of application methods, Ora-jel contains benzocaine for fast-acting temporary relief of toothaches. Again, read and follow the label for proper application and to ensure that this product is suitable for your needs.
  • General Avoidance: This one may seem like common sense, but it deserves to be mentioned. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where your procedure was performed to reduce the risk of pain. Steering clear of hot drinks such as coffee and tea, and laying off the ice cream for the first little while after your dental treatment is beneficial as well. Stick to room temperature, softer foods such a soft cheeses, yogurt, and jello, and you shouldn’t experience any discomfort.
  • Saltwater Rinse: After 24 hours has passed following your dental procedure, you may start saltwater rinses. Mixing 1 tablespoon with a glass of water (about 8oz), swish the water gently around your mouth and then deposit it in the sink. Be sure not to swallow the mixture. Rinses are recommended to be done 2-3 times a day, especially after eating.
  • Bed Rest: Especially after an extensive procedure like a root canal, implant, or tooth extraction, limiting your activities for the first few days is recommended. Strenuous activity may cause increased bleeding, swelling, and general discomfort. Because your caloric intake has been decreased from the lack of solid foods, muscle weakness and light-headed feelings may occur when rising from a laying down or sitting position. Take it easy and let your body recover.

 

This is list is certainly not exhaustive. There are many other home remedies out there, but your dentist should provide you with a post-procedure care guide to take home before you leave the office. If your pain persists and is accompanied by uncontrollable bleeding and extensive swelling, please contact your dental professional as soon as possible.