Author: KkDenntal_aDmEeN

Have you ever woken up to your teeth grinding against each other, or perhaps your bed partner has said a thing about grinding your teeth while sleeping? If so, you might have bruxism. According to general dentistry, bruxism is an involuntary disorder of grinding and clenching your teeth while asleep or awake. Bruxism is more common at night when sleeping.

When left untreated, bruxism can present numerous effects and complications such as headaches, enamel erosion, jaw pain, tooth loss, and tooth damage such as chips, cracks, and breaks. Unfortunately, the underlying cause of bruxism can be difficult to diagnose and treat.
Patients who aren’t aware of this problem may be at significant risk since they cannot notice and stop the behavior. Most patients only complain about waking up feeling achy in their jaw or head. If you’re suspicious that you have bruxism, it’s vital to find help as soon as possible to prevent the associated effects.

While it’s difficult to diagnose the cause of bruxism, there are treatment options you can use to manage or eliminate it and its effects. These include:

• Make lifestyle changes.

Among other factors, lifestyle choices can cause bruxism. For instance, individuals with high usage of tobacco, alcohol, caffeine, and antidepressants are likely to suffer from bruxism. Fortunately, limiting or avoiding these substances can eliminate the problem.

• Stress and anxiety management

According to studies, approximately 70% of cases of bruxism are from anxiety and stress. Managing stress, anxiety, anger, and other negative emotions can ease or eliminate bruxism. Practical strategies to manage negative emotions include:

• Yoga and meditation
• Get support services such as therapy
• Aerobic exercises such as running, cycling, and dancing

• Jaw massage and exercises

Simple jaw exercises such as relaxing your face, massaging your jaw muscles, and using hot packs to the jaw will release any tension and relax your jaw. It prevents your jaw from clenching while sleeping.

• Mouth Guards

With time, teeth grinding and clenching can cause teeth damage such as enamel damage, chips, and cracks. It makes your mouth susceptible to plaque and bacterial infection, eventually leading to cavities, gum disease, and oral infections. To minimize the effects of bruxism on the teeth, your dentist can recommend getting a mouthguard.

Wearing a mouthguard prevents teeth from grinding against each other, reducing the adverse effects of bruxism. Custom-made guards are more effective, and comfortable, and better protection than over-the-counter readymade guards. Please note that mouthguards won’t treat the underlying condition. It only prevents teeth damage.

• Muscle relaxants

You can unwind any tension built up in your jaw muscles throughout the day using muscle relaxants just before sleeping. You can get prescribed muscle relaxants from your dentist to prevent bruxism. It’s worth noting that muscle relaxants cause you to relax and therefore aren’t suitable for daytime use as they can impair certain activities such as driving. At-home muscle relaxation techniques include having a warm bath before bed, drinking herbal but caffeine-free tea, and applying a warm wet towel or heating pad to your jaw.

• Botox injections

Botox injections can help weaken the jaw muscles and prevent involuntary teeth clenching and grinding. When injected, Botox limits the mobility of the jaw muscles, which are responsible for teeth grinding. It’s worth noting that this treatment is for extreme cases of bruxism.

• Treat associated conditions

A cause of Bruxism can be underlying medical conditions such as sleep apnea, crossbites, certain antidepressants, overcrowding, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and down syndrome. Addressing these conditions can help improve or eliminate bruxism. If you have these conditions, consult your dentist about effective treatment options.

Final Verdict

While the underlying cause of bruxism might be challenging to diagnose, these treatment options can help manage the condition and reduce any associated adverse effects. For more information about bruxism treatment, contact KK Dental – North Brunswick to speak with our dentist in North Brunswick. Our dental team will establish an effective treatment option that suits you the best.

A standard root canal procedure may not be an option for a patient with infected tissue, so the dentist may recommend an apicoectomy. Apicoectomy, also known as root end surgery, involves the removal of a tooth’s root apex and the surrounding tissue which is infected. This root end surgery is necessary if there is a repeated infection after a root canal treatment. If this is recommended for you, it indicates that traditional root canal treatment will not preserve your tooth. The only other option for an apicoectomy is to extract the tooth, which might cause damage to other healthy teeth. The goal is to keep your natural tooth in good working condition. KK Dental in Edison looks at how an apicoectomy is performed, what to expect before and after an apicoectomy, and why the minor procedure may be necessary.

Why Apicoectomy May Be Necessary

Different reasons make apicoectomy necessary. First, a new area of tooth decay on the tooth’s root may make the dentist suggest the Apicoectomy procedure. After undergoing a root canal you may experience mild to sharp pain when eating, spontaneous pain, and pits in your teeth, these are signs that you are developing a new tooth cavity. Visit your dental clinic and consult with the dentist about the symptoms and whether this may imply a root canal failure.

Another reason that makes apicoectomy obligatory is canal narrowing due to age. When the canal narrows, it becomes difficult to clean the canal, and therefore the root end surgery is carried out to remove the root tip and make it easier to clean the canal.

Cracked tooth root and infection that spreads into the tissue around the apex of the root are reasons that can make a doctor recommend apicoectomy. Apicoectomy is necessary in the case of cracked tooth root as there is a lot of pain when chewing, and removal of the root apex will treat this.

How Apicoectomy is Done

Before the root end surgery, the patient should visit their dental clinic and consult to see whether the treatment is necessary. An infection might spread all over the teeth, and the only viable option is tooth extraction, making the apicoectomy procedure impractical. The consultation involves a 3D scan to visualize the tooth.

An apicoectomy is done in a dental office with local anesthesia as it is a minor surgery. An incision is made through the gum in the area of infection. The infected tissue and tip of the root canal are removed.

The endodontist assesses the severity of the infection as bone grafting may be required to replace the bone eroded by the infection. Grafting assists in bone stimulation in the infected area.

What to Expect Before and After Surgery

Your dentist in Edison, New Jersey, will assess the severity of the infection and suggest whether you need anti-inflammatory drugs a day before the surgery to keep the infection at bay.

An X-ray is also carried out on the tooth and the surrounding area. An antimicrobial mouth rinse is also given to get your mouth in the best possible condition for surgery.

Local anesthesia is administered before the procedure. It will help numb the area and tooth root. Next, the infected tissue and the apex of the tooth root are removed, and then the dentist seals the incision with a small filling to prevent the further spread of bacteria. Finally, the incision in the gum tissue is sewn up so that the healing process may begin. It takes a few months for the area where the operation was performed to recover.

What to Expect Following Surgery

You may be given anti-inflammatory drugs to help manage soreness, pain, and sensitivity after apicoectomy. In addition, applying ice on the side of your cheek where the minor surgery was done will help reduce pain and swelling.

It is also recommended by dentists in Edison, NJ, to avoid crunchy foods, hard to chew foods, and to smoke until healing begins. Hard to chew and crunchy foods may loosen the stitches or dislodge the blood clot forming, which will lengthen the time to heal.

One of the most common mistakes people make when budgeting for dental costs is neglecting to use their benefits before December. Dental plans typically start over on January 1st. Some plans will only cover 60% of claims for services rendered after December 31st. Others do not provide any coverage at all for services rendered in January. Here are five reasons you need to use your dental insurance before the year ends.

1.No Roll-over for Yearly Benefits

The yearly maximum is the most money your dental insurance policy will pay for anyone full year’s worth of dental treatment. According to various insurance companies, the average is around $1,000 per year per person.

Every year, the yearly maximum usually renews. Unfortunately, if you have unused benefits, these do not roll over. Instead of postponing your dental work, you should visit a dental clinic to get your annual dental checkup.

2. New Year, New Deductibles

A deductible is the amount of money you pay out of pocket to your dentist before your insurance company covers any treatments. This cost varies depending on which plan you have, and it might be higher if you seek treatment from an out-of-network dentist. The average dental insurance deductible is about $50 per year.

When your coverage renews on January 1st, it is possible to reset your deductible and pay a new one, regardless of when you visit the dentist. If you plan to see a Somerset dentist about an important issue for which you have been putting off treatment, do it before December 31, and you could save yourself some hefty out-of-pocket expenses.

3. You pay the premiums anyway.

If you pay your dental insurance premiums monthly, you should be taking advantage of them. You should have your regular dental cleaning even if you don’t need any treatment to help prevent and detect early signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other dental problems.

4. Change of Policy

Anticipated cost hikes are also another incentive to utilize your benefits before the year is over. Some dentists in Edison, NJ, increase their prices at the start of the year, owing to rising living expenses, materials, and equipment costs. A fee rise might also increase your co-pay. As a result, if you have to see a doctor for any reason for the remaining months of the term, you may pay more than your usual co-pay.

5. Waiting for Dental treatment could cost you more.

You may lose money by waiting until the last minute. Appointment dates will fill up quickly as many patients hurry to use up their benefits before the year ends. If you wait too long, you may not get the appointment time you desire. Moreover, the dental procedure may worsen, and you will end up paying more than the typical dental procedure cost.

What Are the Benefits of Having a Dental Insurance?

Insurance offers dental benefits, which include:

• There are no waiting periods with dental insurance

You no longer have to worry about waiting periods when you buy dental insurance. Unlike health insurance, which usually comes with a six-month or one-year waiting period – also called the pre-existing condition exclusion period – benefits for dental procedures start right away. You can get started with treatment faster.

• Your dental insurance pays for preventive care.

Did you know that dental benefits cover preventative procedures, including cleanings and exams, fluoride treatment, sealants, x-rays, overall oral care? You may even be able to get your teeth whitened at the dental office, not just from a store-bought kit or strips.

• Your dental insurance pays for more than just cleanings.

Orthodontics are cosmetic procedures because they improve appearance. However, malocclusion can cause serious health issues that aren’t cosmetic. That’s why you can get your braces paid for under many dental plans.

Many people who neglect their teeth go years without care because they don’t have insurance or cannot afford to go to the dentist. Preventative measures like fluoride treatments will help keep your mouth healthy.

Your insurance provider makes it easy for you to receive the necessary treatments, so take advantage of this benefit now while you still can.

Treatments covered often don’t require a referral before scheduling an appointment with your dental specialist.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit KK Dental for more information about dental insurance and the different types of services they cover.

You might have visited a dental office in the past for a procedure that ended up being painful. For this reason, you might be anxious about getting medical attention for your dental problem. The good news is that it is possible to get pain-free dental treatments due to advances in dental technology. These new procedures can eliminate or lessen the pain associated with dental procedures at KK Dental in North Brunswick.

Is Pain-Free Dentistry A Fact Or Fiction?

Maybe someone has shared with you how their visit to the dentist was painful. That experience may now have you wondering whether pain-free dentistry is a thing of fiction movies. However, pain-free dentistry is a fact and is even available in North Brunswick.

Pain-free dental care may also be known as sedation dentistry. Mild and safe forms of sedation calm you down before your dental procedure. This prevents you from feeling or from remembering pain once the procedure is over. It also helps to reduce the anxiety you may have. The sedation only lasts as long as the procedure.

Your dentist generally varies the sedation used for a procedure based on many factors, but here are some of the types of sedation for pain-free dentistry:

• Minimal sedation – you will be awake during the procedure, but you will be calm and relaxed.
• Moderate sedation – you will be awake but not fully aware of what is happening during your procedure.
• Deep sedation – your consciousness will be reduced to a minimum, but you will be awake

for your procedure. This is also called “twilight” sedation.

General anesthesia – you will be unconscious.

Our dentist in North Brunswick is well trained, experienced, and is familiar with pain-free dentistry, including sedation dentistry.

Apart from sedation dentistry, technological advances have also played a major role in making dental procedures pain-free.

• Laser technology is used for surgeries. Previously, your dentist would have used a knife or a scalpel to perform surgeries on soft tissues such as the gums. This, together with the bleeding involved, would easily induce anxiety in any patient. Laser treatment, however, makes it possible for the surgery to be less painful while also lessening the bleeding.
• Nitrous oxide is commonly known as laughing gas and is carefully administered through inhalation by using a small mask. This gas helps to reduce pain and anxiety. It can be used for both children and adults, and you will be able to drive yourself home after the procedure.
• Composite fillings are now available to replace metal tooth fillings. Metal fillings require your tooth to be drilled deeply to create a strong foundation for the filling. As a result, your tooth would be left weak and prone to cracking in the future. With composite fillings, less drilling is required because high-tech adhesives attach the filling to the tooth. The adhesives eliminate the need for deep drilling.

Benefits of Pain-Free Dental Procedures

The relationship between you and our dentist will improve. Pain-free dental care makes you feel comfortable whenever you are at our office. This will lower your anxiety, and you are more likely to return for follow-up care.

It is the nature of human beings to avoid pain at all costs, and a pain-free encounter at the dentist will give you the assurance that you need to come back and maintain your oral health. Our dentist may recommend an implant or a crown to be placed or other continuing treatment; with less anxiety about the pain, you will accept the treatment plan, which will lead to better dental health for you.

There are many options when it comes to pain-free dentistry. Laughing gas and oral sedation are some methods that can be used to calm you down and allow your dental procedure to take place without you feeling it.

Where Can You Get Pain-Free Dental Services?

For the residents of North Brunswick and the surrounding areas, KK Dental has your best interest at heart. Book an appointment or visit our dental office, and you will leave with a smile on your face.

Do you find that iced beverages make your teeth hurt? If so, then your teeth are sensitive to cold food or drink. Tooth sensitivity is a common problem that can be caused by several different things, ranging from decay to tooth erosion. It is important to visit a dentist in Edison, NJ, for a proper assessment to determine the cause.

What is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity occurs when you feel stinging, discomfort, irritation, or pain in your teeth due to cold, heat, or sweet food and drinks.

Tooth sensitivity can be caused by decay or tooth erosion where the tooth’s enamel layer has worn away, exposing the dentin underneath.

What are the Causes of Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can be the result of several factors, including:

• • – Rough brushing

Brushing with excessive vigor or utilizing a hard-bristled toothbrush might cause sensitivity in your teeth. Over time, the protective layers of your teeth can be worn down, exposing tiny hollow tubes or canals that lead to your dental nerves. When these tubes are exposed to extreme temperatures or acidic or spicy foods, they can become inflamed. Toothbrush bristles that are too hard or pointed can damage these tubes, leading to sensitivity.

• • – Tooth decay

Tooth decay forms when bacteria in plaque produce acid that eats away at the enamel surface of the teeth. Tooth decay can spread into dentin and pulp, causing an infection and resulting in sensitivity.

• • – Acidic foods

Acidic foods can expose your nerves to acidity, which over time will lead to tooth pain. However, one way to avoid this is by avoiding acidic foods such as tomato sauce, lemon, grapefruit, kiwi, and pickles.

• • – Tooth enamel eroding

Tooth enamel erosion does not cause pain until the tooth has lost about half of its thickness. It is most common in the upper front teeth. Through erosion, your teeth become too thin to protect the sensitive nerve endings from hot and cold substances.

Tooth erosion is usually caused by acids coming into contact with a tooth regularly.

• • – Teeth grinding

Even though your teeth’s enamel is tough, grinding it can wear down the enamel. You expose the dentin, which contains the hollow tubes that lead to your nerves, by doing so. Using a mouthguard can stop you from grinding your teeth, but the first step to fixing this issue is to talk with your dentist.

• • – Teeth over-whitening

Teeth whitening that is too strong can damage your gums and nerves. Tooth sensitivity can result from teeth bleaching, especially if you already have gum disease. Talk with your dentist to find out if your teeth are safe for brightening.

– Overly abrasive toothpaste

Toothpaste, especially whitening toothpaste, contains abrasives called microbeads, which scrub away stains on your teeth. Tooth sensitivity can result from this type of scrubbing.

• • – Dental procedures

When you have a dental procedure, it is expected to experience some sensitivity after. If your symptoms do not disappear after a short time, you should visit a dental clinic immediately for assessment.

• • – Decay around your fillings and crowns

Fillings in your teeth may become discolored and decayed over time. They can fracture and leak around the margins as you grow older. Bacteria can accumulate in these tiny cracks, causing acid buildup and enamel deterioration.

• • – Bacteria buildup due to periodontal disease

Periodontal disease is one of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity. It occurs when plaque accumulates around your gums and teeth, loosening them from their sockets. This can result in exposed roots, which cause you pain during chewing or brushing.

What is the Treatment for Tooth Sensitivity?

The treatment for tooth sensitivity will depend on the cause of the problem.

• Avoid clenching and grinding your teeth by getting custom-made mouthguards.
• Do not brush too hard.
• Avoid consuming acidic and sugary foods.
• Get treatment for any underlying cause like decay or gum disease.
• Tooth sensitivity can also be treated by placing a dental sealant on the tooth to create an artificial layer of enamel protection.
• Another way for treating tooth sensitivity is through the use of fluoride varnish when applied topically.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit KK Dental for more information on oral care and how to prevent tooth sensitivity.

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that dentists use in dental care to cover the front surface of the teeth for an improved appearance. Usually, veneers are tooth-colored, and they are suitable for changing a tooth’s shape, size, color, or length.

Veneers are ideal for fixing discolored teeth, worn down teeth, chipped teeth, tooth gaps, and misaligned teeth. Dental veneers could be from porcelain or composite resin materials, however, porcelain veneers resist stains better. It is important to note that you may not be a good candidate for veneers if you have gum disease

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain material is translucent, making it suitable for fabricating veneers. Before fixing veneers, a dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental lab. After that, a ceramist will fabricate your veneers to match the natural color of the teeth at a dental lab.

Types Of Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers differ in their material of construction. Types of porcelain veneers include:

Stacked Ceramic Veneers

Stacked ceramic veneers can match the color, shape, and translucency of natural teeth. When crafting these veneers, the lab ceramist layers the porcelain by hand. Although not as durable, stacked ceramic veneers give an aesthetically pleasing look.

Pressed Ceramic Veneers

Pressed ceramic veneers are more robust and thicker than stacked ceramic. They are also more durable. However, the tooth’s structure will require substantial alterations because these veneers are thick.

Lithium Disilicate Veneers

Lithium disilicate material is especially suitable for patients that grind their teeth. These veneers are strong, and computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing technology are used in making these types of veneers.

Zirconia-based Veneers

Zirconia-based veneers are suitable for patients with structurally weak teeth. Zirconia is similar to lithium disilicate, but it is more robust. In addition, zirconia is opaque, thus able to hide any damage to the tooth structure.

Dental Veneers Procedure

Before getting veneers, you will need to visit a dentist for examinations. The dentist will decide if veneers are right for you. If dental veneers are suitable for you, you should be able to get them in two visits.

During the first visit, the dentist will prepare your tooth by reshaping the surface to the amount of thickness of the veneer.

You may decide to get an anesthetic during the procedure to numb the area.

After the enamel reshaping, the dentist will make impressions of your teeth and send them to the dental lab. Although it may take between two and four weeks for the veneers to be ready, you may get temporary veneers in the meantime.

The dentist will examine the veneer’s fit and color during the second visit to ensure it is right for you. Once the proper fit and color are achieved, the dentist will clean your tooth and polish and etch it. The essence of etching is to achieve a strong bonding.

Afterward, the dentist will bond the veneers to your tooth using dental cement and activate the chemicals present in the cement with a special light beam.

Once the bonding hardens, the dentist will remove excess cement and make necessary adjustments to your bite. You may need to visit the dentist for a follow-up within a few weeks.

Advantages of Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are ideal for improving the appearance of your natural teeth. The color of these veneers matches your natural teeth color, and the gums tolerate porcelain.

Another advantage of porcelain veneers is that they are stain-resistant, making discolored teeth appear whiter. In addition, veneers do not require much shaping like dental crowns, yet they are a stronger option.

Conclusion

Veneers are cosmetic dental treatments that can improve teeth’ appearance. Porcelain veneers are translucent, looking like natural teeth. It is advisable to contact a dentist in Somerset for your professional veneers’ installation. Contact us today.

Sometimes, age, genetics, and lifestyle habits like smoking can cause tooth loss. Missing teeth leave gaps in the gums, and they can cause eating snd speaking difficulties. Furthermore, tooth loss, especially in the front teeth, can cause loss of confidence, gum disease, and chronic headaches.

Fortunately, there are several tooth replacement options, and this article discusses three, including their pros and cons. Kindly read on for more information.

What Is Tooth Replacement?

Tooth replacement involves placing artificial teeth in gaps left by missing teeth. The procedure may be invasive or non-invasive, depending on the replacement option. Although more expensive, some tooth replacement options even look and feel like natural teeth.

What Are The Best Tooth Replacement Options?

1. Dental Implants

Dental implants are a common tooth replacement method. They provide a solution for one or more missing teeth, and with proper care, implants can last a lifetime. Dental implants are tiny titanium screws that a dentist places inside the jaw to hold replacement teeth.

What Happens During A Dental Implant Procedure?

The procedure requires multiple visits to the best dental clinic, and it takes a long time to heal. During the first visit, the dentist places the screws in the jaw bone through surgery. Afterward, the jawbone heals around the implants.

After healing, you will get what is called an abutment, which acts as the anchor for the artificial teeth. The dentist will place the replacement teeth on the abutment during the last visit. With proper maintenance, dental implants are long-lasting while giving you a natural feel and look.

Pros Of Dental Implants

Dental implants are very effective in giving you a natural look and an evenly distributed biting force. Also, implants are permanent, and they don’t require constant checkups.

Cons Of Dental Implants

The procedure is somewhat invasive and can be more expensive, and they require a significant time for healing.

2. Implant-supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges are suitable for replacing multiple missing teeth in a row, and they are different from temporary bridges. These bridges do not require as much time to heal as dental implants.

What Happens During An Implant-Supported Bridges Procedure?

An implant-supported bridges procedure is similar to that of dental implants. You get implants in your jaw and an abutment before the replacement teeth are bonded.

The main difference between the two teeth replacement options is that implant-supported bridges do not require screws in every tooth gap. Instead, only the teeth at the two ends of the gap are secured with implants.

Pros Of Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges feel and look like your natural teeth. They are an economical option for multiple missing teeth. They are also as effective as dental implants.

Cons Of Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges are only suitable for multiple missing teeth in a row. Also, it is not a permanent teeth replacement option. Furthermore, the healing time is quite lengthy.

3. Removable Partial Dentures

Removable dentures are a simple tooth replacement option suitable for people with few missing teeth. The dentures are artificial teeth from a custom-made mold held in place by clasps.

Depending on the missing teeth’ position, the clasps may be visible when you speak or smile. Although less expensive, removable dentures may become loose over time.

What Happens During A Removable Dentures Procedure?

The procedure is non-invasive, and it requires accurate impressions and multiple fittings to get a precise bite. Once the dentures are ready, a dentist will clasp them to ensure the artificial teeth stay in their proper positions.

Pros Of Removable Dentures

Removable dentures are less expensive, easy to install and replace. If any teeth go missing on the dentures, a dentist can add additional teeth.

Cons Of Removable Dentures

The dentures may be uncomfortable because of the clasps, and they do not look as much like natural teeth. Furthermore, you need to remove and clean the dentures daily, and you can’t go to bed with them.

Conclusion

Do you have multiple missing teeth? Missing teeth affect your smile. It is best to contact a dentist in North Brunswick to know the best teeth replacement option for you.

When a person is pregnant, certain hormones in the body begin to show significant changes. This hormonal change can lead to a lot of things, including gum disease, and gum disease has been shown to affect the health of an unborn baby negatively.

If you have a family-friendly dentist or a dentist in Edison, NJ, you will surely be getting professional tips on how to take care of your teeth. If you do not have a regular dentist, check around for dental care near you to maintain the health of your gums and teeth.

Dental Care before Pregnancy

Before becoming pregnant, you will likely have a family dentist that you visit from time to time for a dental checkup. Most people like to stick with a long-time dentist that they have been visiting for some time. Some of these dentists are family dentists who provide ongoing dental care.

If you do not have a family dentist, you can book an appointment with a dentist in Edison, NJ, or find any dentist near you. Make sure that you visit your dentist’s office at least once every six months to clean your gums and teeth thoroughly. Regular checkups also allow dentists to quickly spot a dental problem and curtail it before it becomes painful.

Dental Checkup during Pregnancy

When you have confirmed that you are pregnant, you should inform your dentist of the good news right away. Ask your obstetrician if there are any special instructions regarding your dental health before you visit your dentist.

If you have any dental condition that requires a medical process, it may have to wait until after your delivery, unless it is very urgent. If your doctor has prescribed drugs or prenatal vitamins for you, you should also tell your dentist the name of these prescriptions. Sometimes, the dentist might need to adjust your treatment plan because of these drugs. If you need a dental X-ray, the dentist will also need to cover your abdomen and thyroid to protect the baby.

During your pregnancy try your best always to attend your dental appointments. It is essential for your health and the health of your baby as well. Many women develop pregnancy gingivitis when they become pregnant. This is a condition where the hormonal changes cause periodontal diseases and make the gums so weak that they bleed more easily. Your dentist can take steps to help prevent this.

If you notice any change in your gums while pregnant, ensure that you contact your dentist immediately. You should maintain good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice daily, floss, and make use of an antimicrobial mouthwash to rinse your mouth.

Morning sickness often discourages some women from brushing their teeth in the morning. If you have morning sickness, speak with your dentist, you might need to change to a toothpaste with a more bland taste.

It is not unusual for pregnant women to have sweet cravings. You might feel like you want to bite on every sweet thing that you see! But pregnancy hormones do not make you immune to tooth decay, in fact, it actually makes you more prone to this. One important step to protect your oral health is to reduce the rate at which you consume sugary foods. Your diet is also vital. You need to make sure that you eat a healthy and balanced diet for your baby’s health. The nutrients from the food that you eat are essential for the health of your baby.

Studies have shown that premature birth can be related to tooth and gum diseases. Women who have gum diseases are more likely to have a premature birth than women with healthy gums. So keeping your gums healthy is a great way to keep your baby healthy.

Dental Care after Giving Birth

After delivery, you will need to visit your dentist for a thorough checkup. If you have any medical procedure that had to wait because you were pregnant, it can now be scheduled.

Unsightly spaces in your smile caused by missing teeth can negatively affect your oral health and self-esteem. One of the quickest ways to get your smile back to its former glory days is by visiting our dentist in Somerset, who offers removable dental bridges.

No longer should you stress over missing teeth when our endodontist near you can replace any number of missing teeth. Dental technology has made it possible for many people to enjoy their new smiles after losing their teeth. Dental bridges are an excellent tooth replacement choice and permanent solution, especially if you don’t fancy partial dentures.

Dental Bridges 101

A dental bridge is designed to close the gap where a missing tooth had been. In other words, it “bridges” the gap. There are four different types, each designed to meet specific needs and to replace several missing teeth. You can use them to meet functional and aesthetic needs.

Dental bridges have two main parts: the false tooth, referred to as the pontic in dental terminology, and two dental crowns. These two crowns are attached to the false tooth, one on either side. The purpose of the crowns is to hold the pontic or false tooth in place.

For a dental bridge to be a permanent solution, it must be cemented onto your existing teeth, which act as anchors. The adjacent teeth are also referred to as abutment teeth. One thing to consider when getting dental bridges is that the abutment teeth must be filed down to create room for the tooth crowns. Your enamel can never grow back, making the procedure irreversible.

Are You the Right Candidate for Dental Bridges?

Almost anyone can reap the benefits of undergoing the dental bridge procedure; however, not everyone can be the ideal candidate. You may be a good candidate if:

• You have good health (no severe health conditions)
• You have excellent oral health
• You have healthy and sturdy adjacent teeth that can hold the dental bridge in place
• You have excellent oral hygiene

Types of Dental Bridges

You have the following choices when you decide to go down this road:

• Traditional Bridges

Traditional bridges are the most widely used bridges. They are made of one or more false teeth (pontic) that are attached to two crowns.

For you to utilize this bridge, you will need to have sturdy abutment teeth. These are the go-to option if you need to replace missing back teeth since they can handle the bite force. Typically, they are fashioned from porcelain fused to metal.

• Cantilever Bridge

This bridge is similar to the traditional bridge with one main difference – it has one crown attached to the pontic instead of two. You can go for this option if you only have one abutment tooth adjacent to the empty socket.

This crown can only be held in place with one crown. Because of this, there is a risk that the bridge can act as a lever and damage the abutment tooth. This concern is something you can discuss with our dentist in Somerset.

• Maryland Bridges

Maryland bridges are an excellent alternative to traditional bridges. They are similar in all aspects, but the main difference is that the pontic is attached to a metal or porcelain framework. It eliminates the need for dental crowns to hold the pontic in place.

The adjacent teeth will remain intact since there will be no need to remove the enamel. These bridges, however, cannot withstand the chewing force of the back teeth and are only suitable for replacing your front teeth.

Dental Bridge vs. Implant

A dental implant is considered the permanent tooth replacement option since it is surgically inserted into your jawbone. Even though a dental bridge is attached to the abutment teeth, they don’t offer what implants offer, which is root replacement.

With proper care, bridges can last up to 15 years. There is another option. You can get implant-supported dental bridges, where the bridge is attached to the dental implant instead of the adjacent teeth. This option is the best since your tooth will be stable and sturdy.

Contact us at KK Dental in Somerset to schedule an appointment if you need to get a dental bridge.

While your back teeth, also known as wisdom teeth, are expected to develop like the rest of the teeth, sometimes problems arise. Wisdom teeth often emerge at the age of 17-21 years. When there isn’t enough room for the tooth to emerge and grow normally, the tooth becomes impacted and can lead to a variety of complications, including:

• Jaw pain
• Gum disease or infections
• Plaque and bacteria buildup up behind the tooth
• Tooth decay in the partially erupted tooth
• Problems with orthodontic treatments such as braces and Invisalign
• Development of a fluid-filled sac around the tooth
• Misalignment of adjacent teeth

If you have an impacted tooth, the dentist will recommend extracting it to prevent further complications. Unlike regular tooth extraction that requires non-surgical intervention, impacted wisdom tooth extraction requires surgery.

Wisdom Teeth Extraction Procedure

The first step to wisdom teeth extraction is to visit a dental clinic near you for a checkup. A dentist will inspect your teeth and mouth to advise you accordingly. X-rays will also be taken for further analysis. You may be referred to a bone or gum specialist near you if you have any complications from the impacted tooth.

If you’re eligible for wisdom tooth removal, your dentist will discuss the treatment plan and schedule you accordingly. They will also provide preparation instructions that you should follow to prevent complications during the procedure. On the day of the surgery, dress comfortably and arrive at the dental office on time.

Here is what to expect during a wisdom tooth extraction:

• The dentist numbs the area around the extraction area. The type of sedation offered will depend on the complexity of your condition.
• Next, the dentist exposes the impacted tooth and bone.
• Some bone is removed to gain access to the tooth’s root.
• The dentist then breaks the tooth into small pieces for easy removal.
• The tooth pieces are removed, and the site is cleaned thoroughly to prevent infections.
• Next, the dentist stitches the wound to facilitate faster healing and prevent complications.
• Lastly, you’ll be given a gauze to bite on to control bleeding and aid in blood clot formation.
• Depending on the type of sedation administered, you’ll have to wait for the anesthetic to wear off.
• The dentist will also prescribe medications and provide aftercare instructions to promote faster recovery and prevent complications.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery

Immediately after the procedure, side effects such as bleeding, pain, bruising, swelling, and sensitivity are expected. Fortunately, there’s something you can do for quick recovery. These include:

• Bleeding – Keep the gauze in place until bleeding stops. To avoid dislodging the blood clot, avoid sucking, spitting, or brushing on the extraction site for the next few days or so.
• Pain – Your oral surgeon or dentist is likely to prescribe pain relief medication to manage pain. If they didn’t, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen could help. You can also hold an ice pack on your cheek to relieve pain.
• Swelling and bruising – Take medication administered by your dentist or oral surgeon. Use an ice pack on your cheek to decrease swelling.
• Rest – For the next week or so, avoid strenuous activities that can cause the blood clot to loosen. If possible, rest entirely for the next 24 hours and use a pillow when sleeping.
• Sensitivity – To prevent or minimize any sensitivity, avoid eating or drinking excessively hot or cold foods and beverages.
• Beverages – Hydrate well after surgery. Avoid alcoholic or carbonated drinks as they can slow down healing.
• Food – Immediately after the procedure, only eat soft foods such as eggs, applesauce, or yogurt for the next 24 hours. Completely avoid spicy, hard, hot, or chewy foods to prevent anything from sticking in the socket or irritating the wound.
• Cleaning your mouth – For the next 24 hours, do not brush, rinse, spit, suck, or use mouthwash. Brushing can resume after 24 hours, but you must avoid the surgical area. Rinse your mouth with warm salty water to prevent infections.
• Tobacco Use – Tobacco products have chemicals that inhibit or slow down healing, leading to complications. For the next three days, completely avoid smoking or any tobacco products.

When to Call the Dentist

While rare, complications can happen. Notify your oral surgeon immediately if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Fever
• Excessive bleeding
• Swelling that worsens after 2 or 3 days
• Bad breath or taste in the mouth
• Severe pain that persists even after medication
• Pus or blood in nasal discharge
• Oozing or pus from the socket
• Persistent loss of feeling or numbness

Schedule an Appointment Today

Are you considering wisdom tooth extraction? Contact KK Dental today to speak with a tooth extraction dentist in North Brunswick, NJ.