In the News @ Pine Grove Veterinary Hospital

Bruxism

support@myportalmarketing.com (Grant Gooley) — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 19:25:57 GMT

Looking for signs of bruxism is standard practice during a clinical examination.

Evaluation

Your dentist monitors changes in your teeth and mouth over the subsequent visits to determine if symptoms are progressive.

Determining the cause

The terms "Bruxism" and "Grinding teeth" refer to the repetitive clenching and grinding of the teeth.

Your dentist is looking for signs of:

Tenderness in your jaw muscles
teeth that are worn flat, and the uppers and lowers match
Noticeable dental abnormalities, such as broken or missing teeth
X-rays detect damage to your; teeth, the underlying bone, and the inside of your cheeks

A dental exam may detect other disorders such as Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) that have symptoms similar to bruxism.

For most people, bruxism is a temporary problem,

Dental approaches

In the meantime, your dentist may offer ways to preserve the teeth, such as mouthguards designed to separate teeth and prevent damage caused by clenching and grinding. These dental appliances fit the upper or lower teeth.

Damaged teeth may require restoration by reshaping the teeth or applying crowns.

Other options/approaches:

Stress Management: To reduce grinding your teeth out of anxiety, you may be able to implement relaxation techniques such as meditation.
Behavior change: Once you know you have bruxism, you can change the grinding habit. Your dentist will show you the best position for your mouth and jaw, and you can practice keeping this position in place.
Biofeedback. If you're struggling to break a habit, biofeedback may be able to help teach you how to control muscle activity in your jaw.

Dental Sports Mouthguard

support@myportalmarketing.com (Grant Gooley) — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 19:20:27 GMT

Custom Fit Dental Sports Mouthguard

A healthy lifestyle includes being active, and for many being active means playing contact sports. The downside is the risk of injury, meaning safety and protection are priorities. That includes keeping a full set of teeth!

A sports mouthguard will do the trick. The best type of mouthguard is a custom-fit dental sports mouthguard for the athlete's teeth. They fit precisely and do not slip around in the mouth or even fall out. A custom mouthguard will protect the lips, gums, cheeks, and teeth from a sports-related injury. A custom mouthguard will reduce the severity of or prevent concussion by decreasing the damaging force.

For optimal protection, sports mouthguards should be worn during practices as well as for games of non-competitive or competitive sports to prevent the following injuries:

tooth fractures
tooth loss
tooth intrusion (tooth push down into the gum)
lip damage
injury to gums
concussion

Any one of these dental accidents requires emergency medical or dental attention to increase the chances of successful treatment and outcome. A properly fitted sports mouthguard is a sensible solution to help prevent dental injuries.

A sports mouthguard should be stored in a clean, firm, perforated container to prevent damage and permit air circulation. Your sports mouthguard should be rinsed with cold water after use and cleaned using a toothbrush and toothpaste after use.

Make it your policy never to wrap your mouthguard in tissue, as this is how they accidentally end up in the garbage! And never share your sports mouthguard with others.

Under normal wear, your mouthguard should be checked by your dental hygienist at each visit and replaced every two or three years, depending on how frequently it is worn.

Sleep Apnea

support@myportalmarketing.com (Grant Gooley) — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 19:10:40 GMT

Our Shrinking Jaws and Sleep Apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is an underdiagnosed sleep disorder with many health consequences. Most people begin an awareness of the problem when:

A.) someone complains about their snoring and the strange gasping sounds they make at night or,

B.) You become concerned about being tired all the time and falling asleep easily throughout the day, even while driving.

Characterized by episodes of snoring, grunts, and gasps, sleep apnea deprives the body of healthy oxygen levels and contributes to health issues, including high blood pressure, depression, and heart disease.

Snoring alone may not be sleep apnea but instead snoring accompanied by episodes of not breathing.

Obstructive sleep apnea involves the muscles at the back of the throat relaxing when you fall asleep, allowing nearby tissues to block the compromised airway. Statistics say 25% of men and nearly 10% of women have OSA. Yet sleep apnea continues to be an under-diagnosed health problem for men, women, and even children. Its prevalence today may be related to evidence of our shrinking jaw. Our prehistoric ancestors had much larger jaws and more space in the airway. You might think a shrinking jaw is evolution or genetics, but the evidence points to lifestyle changes since world war ll being more likely responsible for the shrinking jaw.

The most common treatment has been Positive Airway Pressure, which prevents the airway from closing. A small machine blows air through a mask worn over the nose, preventing the airway from collapsing.

Some people struggle to become accustomed to this treatment. Researchers looking for alternative treatments have developed a dental appliance that repositions the jaw and tongue, opening the airway. So naturally, sleep apnea treatment is becoming popular in dentistry.

Dentists who practice sleep medicine are certified by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and generally work together with other health professionals to diagnose and treat sleep apnea.

Dental Bonding

support@myportalmarketing.com (Grant Gooley) — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 19:02:02 GMT

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding is a cosmetic process that uses composite resin to improve the appearance of teeth. It’s a conservative way to repair slightly chipped, discolored or crooked teeth and even fill in gaps between them. Basically, hard white material shaped over the surface of the tooth bonds with your tooth. Bonding comes in a variety of natural-looking shades for a seamless look just like real enamel would be!

Our team is committed to providing high-quality, affordable dentistry for all ages and stages of life. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, we will always provide you with excellent care that meets your needs.

Bonding is a great way to improve the appearance of teeth, because it can be done in one appointment, there's no need to worry about scheduling multiple appointments and taking time off work. Bonding is a fast procedure and doesn’t require any down time. If you don’t need anesthesia, you can continue with your normal daily routine after the procedure.

How to prepare for teeth bonding

Tooth bonding isn't for everyone, and the only way to know if you're a candidate is by consulting your dentist beforehand. Problems like severe tooth damage or decay will make it difficult to perform this procedure.

A healthy smile is a confidence booster. If you have discoloration, a chipped tooth, or a gap and you’re looking for an inexpensive repair, see your dentist for a consultation.

Your dentist can determine whether this procedure is right for you, and if not, recommend other options to improve the appearance of your teeth.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Root Canal

support@myportalmarketing.com (Grant Gooley) — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 18:53:02 GMT

What is Root Canal Treatment & How Do I Know I Need a Root Canal

Root canal treatment rids the inner tooth of infection by removing the pulp and carefully cleaning and disinfecting the root canal.

After this procedure, the tooth needs to be sealed and strengthened to prevent future infections or breakage and save the tooth from extraction. A crown placed over the remaining structure following a root canal treatment is the best way to protect the tooth and ensure long lasting health.

Do you have a constant toothache?

It may be a sign of infection in the nerve of your tooth as a result of the decay process.

Do you have tooth sensitivity?

Lingering sensitivity of 10 seconds or longer to pressure or temperature changes may trigger pain or discomfort.

Is your jaw sensitive to the touch and sore?

Infection from a tooth will spread to the rest of your body. At this point, you will feel pain in your neck and jaw.

Is there an untreated tooth in your mouth, broken or chipped?

Small chips and breaks in your teeth give bacteria a place to hide and fester decay and infection. The best option is a root canal and a crown for a healthy tooth that fits in naturally with your other teeth.

1 Versus 2 Piece Implants

support@myportalmarketing.com (Grant Gooley) — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 18:38:03 GMT

Know the Difference

One piece versus two piece implants

Dental Implants

support@myportalmarketing.com (Grant Gooley) — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 18:38:01 GMT

What You Want to Know About Dental Implants

Dental implants are a safe and reliable tooth replacement option that can improve your quality of life. Dental implants improve chewing, speech and appearance. They are considered a long-term replacement option and if well maintained and taken care of, will last a lifetime.

Why Dental Implants are a Great Option

Designed For Your Health – Titanium and zirconium implants encourage the growth of healthy bone and gum tissue, which provide a strong foundation for future oral health.

Long-Lasting – Dental implants are a great investment, usually lasting for 30 or more years with proper oral hygiene.

Looks & Feels Natural – Dental implants are custom-made to both look and function like your natural teeth. You will be able to eat or speak without feeling self-conscious about your smile.

Easy to Care For – Caring for your dental implant is easy! Just brush and floss as usual, and visit the clinic regularly for teeth cleanings.

Here are the main dental implant benefits to keep in mind:

Durability: One of the benefits of dental implants is that they are as permanent a solution as you can get. Because the implants are fused to your jaw bone, they’re very stable, and if you take good care of them, you can expect them to be just as durable as your natural teeth. Dental implants are the best option for those looking for a long-lasting solution.

Aesthetics: A tooth is the key to a bright smile. Sometimes, people lose their teeth in accidents or they are worn down with age or decay. In order to have an “Insta-ready” smile, one of many treatments is dental implants- they look and feel like regular teeth.

Bone health: Having dental implants replaces a tooth's root, which reduces the risk of bone loss.

Practical benefits: Dental implants are not just for those who want a picture perfect smile. Implants are made of titanium materials fused to the jaw. This attachment secures them to your body and prevents any movement or shifting around the implant site. That means (unlike dentures) your speech is not affected and eating is easier.

How Successful Are Dental Implants?

Success rates of dental implants vary, depending on where in the jaw the implants are placed but, in general, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%.

How Painful Are Dental Implants?

Most people who have received dental implants say that there is very little discomfort involved in the procedure. Local anesthesia can be used, and most patients report that implants involve less pain than a tooth extraction.

Invisalign

support@myportalmarketing.com (Grant Gooley) — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 18:09:12 GMT

What You Need to Know About Invisalign

Invisalign is an excellent option for adult patients, preferring an alternative to traditional metal brace:

Clear invisible aligners.
Custom made, with excellent results over time.
The aligner can be removed and put back in place with ease.

Traditional metal braces can be awkward and intrusive. Luckily, Invisalign provides an alternative. A discreet solution for straightening your teeth without any obtrusive appearance whatsoever!

Customized to get you the smile you want. Each aligner is made with 3D virtual imaging software and fitted to your mouth. There are no metal components. The aligners are 100% BPA-free and safe to wear.

Is Invisalign right for me?

Consider the following criteria:

Have you noticed a change in the spacing of your teeth over time? If so, the problem may be getting worse.
Are your teeth cycling back to their old positions following orthodontic treatment
Your smile is not a fit with your personal goals and aspirations because of misalignment. Invisalign will help get you there with confidence in your perfect smile.

10 Early Signs of Cancer

support@myportalmarketing.com (Grant Gooley) — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 18:09:11 GMT

Oral cancer rates are on the rise, so during examination, your dentist will carefully observe your tongue, throat, face, head, and neck, on the lookout for any signs of trouble - swelling, redness, or possible signs of cancer.

Oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers occur most often in:

The tongue
The tonsils and oropharynx
The gums, floor of the mouth, and other parts of the mouth
The rest is detected on the lips, the minor salivary glands (which often occur in the roof of the mouth), and other sites.

10 Early Signs of Cancer

1.) Ulcers and other sores that do not heal are the most common sign of oral cancer. An ulcer sore should go away within a few weeks. If not, it is worth getting it looked at by a doctor.

2.) Patches of red or white in the Mouth or throat that are smooth, rough, or bumpy should be looked at by a doctor if they have no known cause and do not go away within a few days.

3.) Mouth or throat cancer make it difficult to speak clearly. If a voice changes quickly for no apparent reason becoming rough or raspy, a doctor should be consulted.

4.) Bad breath afflicts many people for many reasons; one of the most severe causes is mouth cancer. Brushing teeth or chewing gum will not alleviate bad breath caused by cancer.

5.) The lymphatic system is an integral part of the immune system; it helps fight infection and destroy damaged or cancerous cells. Lymph nodes found in the groin, neck, and armpit may become and stay swollen as the body strengthens the immune system to eliminate cancer.

6.) Mouth cancer can create a loss of appetite and make eating difficult leading to weight loss.

7.) Anyone who experiences pain or discomfort in the Mouth for an extended period should make an appointment with a doctor. Pain below the gums or under the tongue may not be a dental issue.

8.) Bleeding can be one of the earliest signs of mouth cancer. Many issues can explain why a mouth is bleeding, but if an individual cannot identify an apparent reason, a doctor should take a look.

9.) When the jaw is stiff for an extended time, a doctor should be consulted.

10.) A Sore throat that lasts for more than a few weeks with no apparent reason should be checked by a doctor.

Gum Disease

support@myportalmarketing.com (Grant Gooley) — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 17:33:15 GMT

You Could Have Gum Disease!

Gum disease is the #1 cause of adult tooth loss in the US. So it’s very common and many people do not realize they have gum disease until the symptoms are severe. Diagnosing gum disease in the early stages can prevent serious outcomes of tissue and bone loss, and worse tooth loss!

There are three stages of gum disease:

Gingivitis; treated at this stage, may cure the disease. At this stage some people notice red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Others may have no symptoms at all.
Periodontitis: People notice pain at this stage and the disease has started to break down gum tissue and affect the teeth and bones. Gums may begin to recede at this point. When treatment begins at this stage we can prevent gum disease from progressing further.
Advanced periodontitis. At this stage of disease teeth become loose, or may shift. You are at risk of losing teeth, bone and gum tissue.

There Are Many High Risk Factors for Gum Disease Including:

Not brushing your teeth twice a day
Irregular professional cleanings
Smoking or chewing tobacco
Some medications
Defective fillings
Crooked teeth
Systemic disease
Hormonal imbalance
Pregnancy
Family history of gum disease

Symptoms of Gum Disease:

Bleeding gums during brushing
Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
Bad breath or bad taste
Adult Permanent teeth that are loose for no apparent reason
Changes in way teeth fit together when you bite

The Bayshore Dental team have gentle and effective treatment protocols when gum disease is detected. We can help you control gum disease!

When gum disease is detected, your hygienist is prepared to treat this with deep cleaning by root planing and scaling. Followed by antibiotic irrigation to kill bacteria: or potassium nitrate, a natural solution for sensitive teeth. Further irrigation treatments may be required

When gum disease becomes more advanced, laser therapy can gently and effectively remove infected tissue. Often this treatment will help eliminate the need for invasive gum surgery.

Follow-up appointments may be needed to ensure your gums remain disease-free. Your hygienist will provide instructions to help prevent or control gum disease at home with recommended rinses.

There’s no better time than the present to start caring for your teeth and gums.

You can call or Book online to make an appointment.

Your healthy, beautiful smile is within reach!

Dental Check-ups and Cleanings

support@myportalmarketing.com (Grant Gooley) — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 17:17:01 GMT

Regular dental exams ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. A dental visit every six months (or as recommended) for cleaning and monitoring will help prevent disease and provide early diagnosis and treatment.

What happens at a regular dental checkup?

There are four aspects to a regular dental checkup and cleaning:

Data collection and x-rays
Cleaning
Clinical examination
Diagnosis and treatment plan

The hygienist or dental assistant will take your medical and dental history, including any medications that you take regularly. While the hygienist cleans your teeth, the dentist will review your history and x-rays.

When the cleaning is complete, the dentist will do a clinical examination, then provide a diagnosis and a recommended treatment plan if one is required.

Clinical examinations include the following:

X-Ray Cavity detection
Plaque & tartar scaling
Air-way Screening
Oral Cancer Screening
Bite Evaluation
Hygienist Services
Smile evaluation
Gum care

Office administrative staff will help you put the treatment plan into action by helping with insurance coverage or payment plans and booking appointments for the treatment.

Sealants

support@myportalmarketing.com (Grant Gooley) — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 17:06:44 GMT

What Are Sealants?

A thin coating of sealant painted on the chewing surface of the teeth bonds to grooves and forms a shield over the enamel to effectively prevent tooth decay. Brushing and flossing will remove most food particles and plaque on smooth surfaces, but the bacteria can hide in uneven surfaces at the back of the mouth and between teeth. Sealants do a great job of protecting these vulnerable areas.

Who Should Get Sealants?

Children from ages six to fourteen are particularly vulnerable to cavities, so this is a critical age to have sealants. Adults could also benefit from sealants on cavity-free biting surfaces to keep those teeth free of decay—particularly adults who have difficulty brushing.

What Research Says About Sealants

A CDC report states that dental sealants prevent 80% of cavities for two years and 50 % up to four years. According to the CDC, the sealants can stay in the mouth for up to nine years. Only about 43 percent of 6- to 11-year-old children have dental sealants. School-age children without sealants are three times more likely to have cavities than children with sealants. The CDC reported that applying sealants in school-based programs to the nearly 7 million children from low-income households who don't have them could save up to $300 million in dental treatment costs.

Some potential problems may require the reapplication of sealants. Studies detect slight exposure of BPA in saliva for three hours after a procedure which returns to baseline within 24 hours. No findings of BPA in blood serum, and there are no reports of adverse reactions.

This finding is much less severe than other exposures resulting from treatments for tooth decay.

Long-term benefits

Sealants are a painless procedure, well tolerated by most people with the long-term benefits of cavity-free molars. Adults can also benefit from sealants because our exposure to decay increases with age, and saliva's protective quality and biochemistry change over time.

Benefits of Preventive Dentistry

support@myportalmarketing.com (Grant Gooley) — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 14:27:40 GMT

Benefits of preventive dentistry include:

Regular check-ups are an opportunity to express any dental concerns you have, like: pain, bad breath, chipped or broken teeth, dentistry for your family members, cleaning teeth, Oral Cancer Screening.Smile Corrections, Tooth Extractions and Tooth Sensitivity

We encourage patients to bring forward their concerns. Your hygienist may ask direct questions about health issues common to your age and stage in life that may be link to untreated oral disease.

Oral health and general health are connected, so you should be aware of the following.

Gum Disease And Heart Disease – Untreated gum disease increases the risk of developing heart disease by 300%. Critical to existing heart conditions.

Diabetes – Diabetics are more likely to have gum disease. When gum disease is present, a person with diabetes will have more difficulty controlling blood sugar levels.

Respiratory Diseases – Gum disease, an inflammatory disease, can worsen inflammation in lung diseases (such as asthma and COPD).

Alzheimer's Disease - Porphyromonasgingivalis has been linked to Alzheimer's disease as it increases plaques associated with the disease. Research continues.

Stroke – Gum disease can sometimes be a major cause of strokes with no other apparent explanation. Ensure you're brushing twice daily and making your regular dental visits to reduce the chance of stroke.

Chronic kidney disease often comes alongside diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Osteoporosis – Periodontitis and osteoporosis are risk factors for each other.

Preventive dentistry is vital in maintaining a healthy mouth with teeth and gums that function correctly. Teeth enable us to chew, speak and give shape to our face!

You can have and keep an attractive, confident and healthy smile with regular visits to your dentist for preventive care.