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Tooth decay is a ticking time bomb. If not addressed on time and correctly, it can eventually lead to loose teeth, tooth loss, gum infection, abscesses, and bone infection. Fortunately, you can prevent these side effects and save your tooth.

A root canal treatment is an effective way to remove and stop tooth infections. If damage is significant, tooth extraction may be the only remedy. Afterward, you can replace the tooth with a bridge or implant. Contact our dentist in New Brunswick, NJ, to determine the right treatment.

How Root Canal Works

A root canal restores the health of a decayed tooth. Usually, your tooth has three main layers – enamel, dentin, and pulp chamber. Enamel is the outer layer that protects the inner structures of the teeth. The pulp is the innermost chamber that contains nerves and blood vessels.

Unfortunately, your tooth can chip, crack, break, or fracture, exposing the tooth’s pulp. It can happen from accidents, severe teeth grinding and clenching, and poor dental hygiene. When bacteria enter the tooth, they infect the pulp tissues, leading to decay. Root canal therapy is necessary to remove the infection. The dentist begins by numbing your mouth to prevent pain and anxiety during the procedure.

Next, the dentist drills through the tooth to access the tooth’s pulp. Then, the dentist removes infected and decayed pulp tissues, and the tooth is rinsed and disinfected. Next, the dentist fills the empty chamber with a filling material to close the hole. Placing a crown is necessary to protect and strengthen a tooth after a root canal. Typically, placing a permanent filling and crown may take a few weeks. Contact our endodontist in Brunswick, NJ, for more information about root canal treatment.

Factors that Affect Recovery after a Root Canal

While most canals are often successful and long-lasting, there’s often a risk of re-infection. It can happen for several reasons. For instance, if saliva or infection gets trapped during a root canal, it can result in re-infection. Similarly, a crown can crack, chip, or break, exposing the tooth to further infection.

Fortunately, you can do something to facilitate successful healing after a root canal. These include:

• Early treatment

Early treatment is a key factor in successful treatment when performing a root canal. Like most health issues, the sooner tooth decay is detected and treated, the higher the chance of successful root canal treatment.

The more severe the tooth infection or decay, the higher the risk of re-infection. Regular dental assessments and cleanings can help with early diagnosis and treatment. Similarly, seeking dental care immediately when faced with oral issues can ensure a successful root canal with fewer side effects.

• Tooth type

The second factor that can affect the success of a root canal is the type of tooth that needs treatment. Generally, front teeth have single roots, and fewer canals are easier to treat. On the other hand, molars and premolars are hard to reach and contain a complex root canal network. It can make a root canal treatment more complicated, increasing the risk of re-infection.

• The aging process

Over time, teeth can wear down or weaken, making them susceptible to damage. If a root canal is performed on an aged tooth, there’s a higher fracture risk, leading to infections. It’s advisable to place a dental crown after the root canal treatment to prevent this.

Similarly, taking too long to place a crown can increase the risk of re-infection. Most dentists advise placing a crown within a few weeks after the root canal treatment. The improper placing of the crown can also lead to re-infection.

How to Promote Faster Recovery after Root Canal

Immediate Aftercare

• Take medication as prescribed by the dentist.
• Use an ice pack to manage swelling and pain.
• Eat a soft diet. Avoid hard, sticky, spicy, or crunchy food items.
• Brush and floss gently around the treated tooth.
• Avoid hot and acidic items to prevent sensitivity.
• Notify your dentist or contact our North Brunswick dentist if your symptoms worsen or persist.

Long-term Aftercare

• Brush and floss regularly.
• Wear a mouthguard for bruxism or sports.
• Schedule frequent dental assessments and cleanings.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Do you have an infected tooth? Contact KK Dental – Brunswick for root canal treatment.

Gum or periodontal disease is an increasingly rising oral concern among millions globally. Keeping up with good oral hygiene and regular oral exams is the key to maintaining healthy gums. Usually, gum disease results from bacteria, plaque, and tartar in the mouth. These deposits can irritate and infect the gums, causing inflammation.

Over time, these deposits form along and under the gum line, forming deep pockets. As the pockets become deeper, it might be difficult or painful to get rid of these deposits. If not eliminated, the infection can spread to the underlying jawbone and lead to tooth loss, loose teeth, bone damage, etc.

If caught early, your dentist or periodontist can perform deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, to eliminate plaque and tartar under the gums and allow the gums to reattach to the teeth. However, deep cleaning might not be effective if your pockets are too deep, say more than 5mm. In such a case, your periodontist can recommend pocket reduction surgery, also known as Osseous surgery. Visit a dental care clinic near you or contact our Edison dentist for periodontal disease treatment.

What is Osseous Surgery?

Osseous surgery is a pocket reduction surgery designed to reduce or eliminate deep pockets from periodontal disease. If you have periodontitis and your pockets haven’t improved, your doctor may recommend surgery. Contact our family dentist in Edison, NJ, to determine whether Osseous surgery is right for you.

Osseous Surgery Procedure

Osseous surgery is to eliminate infection and bacteria in gum pockets. Typically, the procedure takes about 1 – 2 hours. It may depend on the patient’s need for additional procedures such as bone grafting.

The periodontist will begin by numbing the treatment area to prevent discomfort and keep you relaxed during the procedure. Next, the periodontist will open and lift back your gum tissues from the teeth and jawbone.

They will clean the pockets and smoothen the root surface using special tools. It creates a better surface for teeth and gums to reattach. Next, the gum tissues trim to fit the underlying structure. Lastly, they stitch the gums to facilitate healing.

Bone Grafting

Your periodontist can recommend bone grafting to repair your bone. The procedure entails placing new bone materials into the area where you’ve lost bone.

Osseous Surgery Aftercare

After the surgery, it’s normal to experience some side effects like pain, swelling, or sensitivity. Fortunately, your periodontist will prescribe some medication to manage that. Complete healing may take three to six months.

Your doctor will also give you a few aftercare instructions to facilitate faster healing and recovery. It can include:

• Take medication as prescribed.
• Brush and floss daily gently around the treatment area.
• Eat cool and soft food items. Avoid hot, acidic, hard, crunchy, and acidic items.
• Avoid smoking or alcohol consumption.
• Don’t suck, spit, rinse, or use a straw for the next few days.
• Rest adequately. Avoid strenuous physical activities like exercises for the next five days.
• Use an ice pack to manage pain and swelling.
• Use saltwater rinses after 24 hours.
• Notify your periodontist if your symptoms worsen or persist. Visit a dental clinic near you if you have a fever or infection.
• Go to your doctor’s follow-up appointments.
• Schedule regular oral checkups and cleanings.

Schedule An Appointment

Contact KK Dental Edison to talk with our oral surgeon in Edison for more information about Osseous surgery and periodontal disease.

When you lose several of your natural teeth, it causes more harm than just ruining a perfect smile. Since the teeth support your facial muscles, missing teeth can cause facial sagging and wrinkles, giving you an older appearance. Similarly, you’ll likely experience difficulties chewing food and pronouncing certain words.

As far as your oral health is concerned, missing teeth often increases plaque and bacteria buildup in the mouth, exposing you to tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral complications. Additionally, the remaining healthy teeth are likely to move towards the gaps, leading to misalignments. Your jawbone will likely deteriorate or weaken over time due to a lack of chewing activities.

Lost teeth can negatively impact your oral appearance, function, health, self-confidence, and overall quality of life. Fortunately, there’s something you can do about it. If you’ve lost a few or all of your natural teeth, your dentist will likely recommend getting dentures.

What are Dentures?

A denture is a removable tooth-colored dental device that replaces missing teeth and the surrounding tissues. Dentures replace a few or all missing teeth. Dentures consist of artificial teeth and a gum-colored base over the bone ridge that supports the natural teeth. Dentures function, feel, and look like your natural teeth.

Getting a quality customized denture will ensure that it comfortably fits your mouth without causing discomfort, falling off, or slipping off when chewing or speaking. Ill-fitting dentures can hurt your gums, bone, and remaining teeth leading to oral infections and other complications. They likely cause breathing, chewing, and speaking problems.

For this reason, it’s always advisable to make sure that you are getting your dentures from qualified and professional dentists. Contact our team for high-quality partials & full dentures in Somerset, NJ.

Types of Dentures

There are two major types of dentures, namely:

Complete or Full Dentures

Full dentures are ideal if the patient is missing all their natural teeth on either jaw. These dentures are removable, and you should never sleep with them. Ensure you clean them thoroughly and soak them overnight in a denture liquid to get rid of food debris, plaque, and bacteria buildup accumulated throughout the day.

Your dentist can place complete dentures immediately or a few weeks after teeth extraction. Conventional dentures are placed about 8-12 months after teeth extraction. This waiting period allows the gums to heal properly. Immediate dentures go on immediately after extraction, meaning that you won’t have to stay without teeth during the healing phase.

However, it’s worth noting that your bones and gums shrink during the healing phase. It means that immediate dentures will require more adjustments to fit properly. In most cases, immediate dentures are used as a temporary solution as you wait for the conventional dentures.

Partial Dentures

A partial denture consists of several artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored or pink plastic base. Partial dentures are for when a patient misses one or a few of their natural teeth in either jaw. You can get a removable or fixed denture depending on your condition and needs.

A partial removable denture should be removed and soaked when sleeping. Alternatively, you can get a fixed partial denture, also known as a dental bridge. A dental bridge is a fixed dental device that replaces one to a few teeth next to each other. The dental crowns support the artificial teeth by attaching healthy teeth adjacent to the gap. A dental implant can also support the bridge, giving it more strength, stability, and durability.

Partial or Full Dentures. Which is Better?

The choice between a partial denture and a full denture depends on the number of missing teeth. If you’re only missing a few of your natural teeth, a partial denture is better. On the other hand, if you’ve lost all of your teeth on either jaw, then a full denture is probably your best option.

Once you visit your dentist for an exam, they will inspect your mouth and determine the most suitable treatment option. Contact KK Dental in Somerset to get started with your treatment today.

Tooth chips, cracks, decay, and discoloration are the most common dental imperfections. Sports & car accidents, poor dental hygiene, and consumption of highly pigmented items are key reasons behind teeth damage. Fortunately, you can correct dental imperfections with porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers can restore your oral function and appearance thanks to their excellent aesthetics and strength.

What are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin tooth-colored coatings placed on the front surface of a tooth to repair the damage. Porcelain veneers are porcelain materials. When placing the veneer, the dentist will have to shave a small portion of your tooth’s enamel for the veneer to fit properly without looking bulky or abnormal.

After shaping the tooth, the dentist takes impressions of your teeth and sends them to the dental lab to create the porcelain veneers. This procedure takes about two weeks. A temporary veneer offers protection for the teeth.

The dentist will remove the temporary veneer on the second appointment and test the customized one. Next, the dentist will cement the porcelain veneers in place. Your veneers should last for 10-15 years with proper dental care before requiring replacement.

Do you Need Porcelain Veneers?

While porcelain veneers are highly effective, they aren’t ideal for all dental imperfections. To know whether you’re qualified for the treatment, visit a dental clinic near you or contact our North Brunswick dentist.

Unlike other dental procedures that take months and a series of appointments, getting porcelain veneers only takes two appointments. Your dentist will likely recommend porcelain veneers if you have dental imperfections like:

• Teeth stains and discoloration

Over time, your teeth can get stained, yellowed, or discolored due to dental trauma, poor hygiene, acidic items, highly pigmented foods, and smoking. While teeth whitening will always be the first attempt to whiten your smile, deeper stains may not respond to bleaching.

In such a case, porcelain veneers can help. The dentist will place a porcelain veneer on the front of the tooth, covering up the stains and giving you a whiter smile.

• Have abnormally short teeth

When your teeth appear shorter, your smile will likely look gummy even though you don’t have excess gum tissues. Your dentist can place a porcelain veneer to elongate your teeth and improve your smile.

• Uneven teeth

Uneven teeth can make you look unattractive and unhealthy. Your dentist can place a porcelain veneer on the tooth, improving the shape and size of your tooth. It provides balance to your smile.

• Teeth chips and cracks

Porcelain veneers are also effective in repairing minor teeth chips and cracks. These damages will likely worsen with time if not treated, leading to further complications like tooth decay and tooth loss. Your dentist can place a porcelain veneer over the teeth, holding the tooth together and creating a perfect smile.

• Minor tooth gaps and misalignments

If you only have minor teeth gaps and misalignments, you don’t need orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign. A porcelain veneer can be used to widen your teeth, close improper teeth gaps, and fix misalignments.

Ideal Candidates for Porcelain Veneers

To qualify for porcelain veneers, you should possess certain traits. For successful attachment, you should have healthy teeth and gums for a porcelain veneer. If your teeth are severely damaged or decayed, your dentist will likely recommend more extensive procedures like dental crowns, root canal, or extraction. If you have underlying problems like gum disease, your dentist may address them first.

Similarly, you should not have bruxism. While porcelain veneers are pretty durable and strong, they won’t be able to withstand the constant pressure of teeth grinding and clenching. It will likely break or chip pretty quickly. If you have bruxism, your dentist can recommend night guards and relaxation techniques to minimize the damage to your teeth. You may not qualify for porcelain veneers if you have severely crooked or improperly gapped teeth.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Do you think you’re a good candidate for porcelain veneers, or would you like to learn more about dental veneers? Contact KK Dental – North Brunswick to book your appointment.

Despite the widespread education about preventive dentistry, about 50% of Americans over 30 years have gum disease. If you don’t care for your mouth by cleaning and eating healthier, you risk getting gum disease and permanent teeth damage.

Mainly, gum disease occurs when bacteria and food debris accumulate on the surface of the teeth and along the gum line to cause plaque. Fortunately, you can remove plaque by thorough brushing and flossing. However, when you don’t remove plaque, it hardens to become tartar.

Over time, tartar and plaque irritate and inflame your gums. In its initial stages, gum disease is usually painless with few symptoms. Unfortunately, most adults don’t realize they have the condition until too late. Regular dental assessments and cleanings can help identify early signs of the disease and prevent permanent damage.

Early symptoms to watch out for include:

• Puffy or swollen gums
• Red or purplish gums
• Tender and sore gums
• Bleeding when eating or brushing
• Unexplained bad breath
• Painful chewing
• Loose teeth or tooth loss
• Pus teeth and gums
• Receding gums
• New spaces between teeth

Complications of Gum Disease

If you have gum disease, our Edison dentist will treat the condition and help restore the health of your gums. If you don’t treat gum disease on time and correctly, it can worsen. This leads to severe and life-threatening complications such as:

• Loose teeth and tooth loss

Untreated gum disease spreads further underneath the gums and attacks the jawbone and other supporting structures of the teeth. It often leads to bone deterioration, deep gum pockets, and receding gums. Over time, the gums and jawbone cannot hold the teeth securely, eventually leading to loose teeth and tooth loss.

Loose and lost teeth often hurt your oral health and function, like chewing, brushing, and speaking. Additionally, they can lead to jawbone deterioration, teeth crookedness, and facial sagging. You might have to invest in dental implants, bridges, or dentures to replace the lost teeth.

• Swollen, bleeding, or red gums

When your gum tissue continually inflames, you’re likely to experience sore, red, swollen, or bleeding gums. It can happen around one tooth or through the entire mouth.

• Chronic bad breath

Bad breath is a common side effect of untreated gum disease. The odor often happens when bacteria and plaque under the gum line and between teeth release gases and chemicals. Foods with strong smells like garlic, onions, and spices can worsen the breath.

• Diabetes

You’re at a higher risk of developing or worsening diabetes if you have gum disease. Bacteria in the infected gums can enter the bloodstream. It activates your body’s defense mechanism, potentially leading to high blood sugars in the blood and putting you at risk of diabetes complications.

• Cardiovascular diseases

According to research, patients with poor dental hygiene are three times more prone to heart disease and strokes. The bacteria from untreated gum disease can enter your bloodstream and cause a severe condition called atherosclerosis. It makes you more susceptible to blood clots and restricted blood flow, which can cause stroke and heart attack.

• Receding gums

Gum recession happens when the gums surrounding a tooth wear away or pull back. If you can see your tooth’s roots or notice that your teeth appear longer, you might have receding gums.

• Respiratory diseases

Untreated gum disease can worsen or increase your risk of respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or asthma. It is because gum infection increases inflammation of the lungs and airways.

• Cancer

You’re at a high risk of developing oral and lung cancer if you have gum disease. According to a recent health study, patients with advanced gum disease had a 24% higher cancer risk than those with healthier gums.

How to Prevent Gum disease

Typically, gum disease is avoidable. Use these tips to maintain healthy gums and overall wellness:

• Brush at least twice daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently. Abrasive brushing can cause gum disease.
• Floss daily
• Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings
• Eat gut-friendly foods
• Eat healthier and hydrate well
• Wear a nightguard for bruxism
• Avoid or limit tobacco products

Schedule an Appointment Today

Are you looking for gum disease treatment, or do you need dental care in Edison? Contact KK Dental Edison to book your appointment today.

While it’s not necessary to replace missing teeth with dentures, it will improve your oral function and appearance significantly. Similarly, dentures prevent shifting of the adjacent teeth, poor bite, and jawbone deterioration.

When you visit our Somerset dentist for a consultation, they will examine your mouth to determine whether you’re eligible for dentures. If your candidacy is approved, the dentist can give you the following treatment options:

• Partial Dentures

If you’re missing a few consecutive natural teeth, your dentist may recommend partial dentures to fill the gaps left. A partial denture consists of a few artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored or pink base. Partial dentures are removable and attached to the nearby healthy teeth by clasps.

• Immediate Dentures

Usually, most dentists recommend waiting for several weeks to allow your gums to heal properly before placing the denture.

If you’re eligible for immediate dentures, the dentist can extract your teeth and place your permanent dentures at the same appointment. You’ll have to go for additional appointments to adjust the dentures as your gums tend to change as you heal from the extraction. Mainly, immediate dentures are used as temporary dentures.

• Complete or Full Dentures

Complete dentures are most common among older adults. You should get them if you’ve lost all of your natural teeth in your jaws. Like partial dentures, complete dentures are removable.

Getting Dentures from Qualified Dentists

When looking for dentures, some patients opt for cheaper permanent dentures. You should know that most of these dentures are low quality, poorly fixed, and usually offered by less experienced or unprofessional dentists. While it can save you a few dollars initially, it might not be cost-effective in the long term.

Generally, the cost of dentures depends on factors such as:

• Dentist expertise fees
• Denture materials
• Type of denture
• Comprehensive patient care

Denture Material

Dentures are different materials. The denture base is made from plastic, acrylic, or metal, while the artificial teeth are acrylic or porcelain. Metal dentures are thinner but offer superior strength and durability. They are more hygienic than some dentures.

Plastic dentures are easier to make and, therefore, cheaper. However, they come with downsides. For instance, they can damage the gums around your natural teeth if not cleaned or designed correctly.

Care and Adjustments

Professional dentists have the training and experience to make high-quality dentures. They will do their best to provide the most customized denture fit. The dentist will make adjustments to ensure they meet all your dental needs. Unprofessional dentists are likely to lack important craftsmanship or skills to make high-quality dentures.

Cheaper dentures have less room for adjustments. Hence, patients end up with ill-fitting and uncomfortable dentures. Such dentures are likely to slip or fall out when speaking or eating. Similarly, they can hurt your gums and teeth, leading to further complications. Visit our dental clinic in Somerset if you experience complications from wearing dentures.

Premium vs. Cheap Dentures

High-quality dentures from professional dentists offer a better match to your skin tone, gums, and natural teeth. They also provide a perfect fit and maximum comfort to ensure normal bite, speech, and smile. With proper care, you can expect your dentures to last many years.

Alternatively, cheaper dentures are made of low-grade materials. They are more prone to cracking and breakage. The gum color might also be limited, offering less natural results. Similarly, low-quality dentures tend to shrink more than quality dentures. It can significantly affect your bite function and lack proper fit. You’ll also have to replace them sooner.

Schedule an Appointment Today

For more information about high-quality dentures, contact KK Dental – Somerset.

When a wisdom tooth doesn’t have enough room to grow naturally, it becomes impacted. An impacted wisdom tooth can result in numerous side effects such as:

• Pain
• Gum infection or periodontal disease
• Tooth decay
• Plaque build-up behind the tooth
• Damage to the nearby teeth
• Damage to the nearby jawbone
• Complications with orthodontic procedures
• Development of a fluid-filled sac around the tooth

To prevent the dental problems caused by impacted wisdom teeth, your dentist might recommend removing them. Wisdom tooth extraction is a surgical procedure of removing one or more impacted wisdom teeth. An oral surgeon or general dentist can do the extraction.

Unfortunately, wisdom tooth extractionscomes with side effects and risks like any other surgical procedure. While we can always hope for normal healing and recovery, it’s essential to be informed about potential complications. Let’s look at the possible complications of wisdom teeth extraction:

Wisdom Teeth Extraction Complications

• Pain and swelling

Most patients report swelling and pain after surgery when undergoing wisdom tooth extraction. Fortunately, your dentist or oral surgeon will prescribe medication to manage pain and swelling. Similarly, you can apply an ice pack to the cheek.

• Dry sockets

After wisdom tooth extraction, you’ll have gauze to bite. The gauze helps a clot to form and control the bleeding. If a clot dislodges accidentally before the wound heals, then the underlying nerves and tissues to air and saliva get exposed. It can cause irritation and pain in the socket.

According to research, a dry socket occurs about 10% after wisdom tooth extraction. You’re at a higher risk of developing a dry socket if you smoke, rinse your mouth vigorously, suck using a straw, or spit forcefully. Similarly, engaging in strenuous physical activities can dislodge the clot and cause a dry socket.

• Discomfort or difficulty opening the mouth.

After a lengthy oral procedure, you are likely to experience discomfort or restrictions when opening your mouth. Most patients who undergo wisdom tooth extraction report experiencing tightness in the jaw muscles. Fortunately, the issue should fade away within a few days. Treatments such as pain medication, heat therapy, muscle relaxants, massage, and stretching can help ease the discomfort.

• Infection

After the wisdom teeth removal, swelling, fever, pus, and malaise indicate infection. While swelling is usually a normal side effect after extraction, you may have an infection if it lasts longer than three days or if you experience the symptoms mentioned above. Contact your dentist immediately or visit a dental clinic near you for emergency dental care.

• Excessive bleeding

For the next 30 minutes to a few hours, it’s normal to experience bleeding after wisdom tooth extraction. If bleeding persists or worsens, visit a dental office near you or contact our dentist in North Brunswick, NJ, for emergency dental care. To minimize bleeding, you should follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions. These can include avoiding tobacco products, spitting, rinsing, sucking, and eating hard items.

• Sinus opening

An upper wisdom tooth can be near a sinus. Usually, there’s always a layer of bone separating the tooth and the sinus. An opening between the mouth and the sinus occurs if the bone is very thin and comes out during extraction.

It happens in about 1% of upper wisdom tooth removal. If this happens, you may feel congested and stuffy around your cheeks. You may also notice water coming through the nose. Fortunately, this opening heals without additional treatment.

• Lip numbness

In some cases, you can injure a nerve near a lower wisdom tooth during tooth removal. It can cause the lower lip or jaw to feel itchy or tingly. While it’s very rare, it’s possible. Fortunately, the numbness is temporary but can be permanent if the nerve damage is severe.

What to Seek Help

If you experience these symptoms or complications, visit a dental clinic near you or contact our dentist in New Brunswick, NJ. For more information about wisdom tooth extraction complications and aftercare, contact KK Dental – North Brunswick.

Natural aging, tobacco use, dental trauma, certain medication, poor oral hygiene, and consumption of highly pigmented and acidic items are key factors behind teeth stains, yellowing, and discoloration. That said, it’s worth noting that you don’t have to hide your smile due to discoloration. Cosmetic dentistry gives you several options to whiten your teeth and enhance your smile.

Types of Teeth Discoloration

When considering whitening your teeth, the first step is to visit a dental office near you or contact our dentist near Edison for an exam to identify the type of stains you have. Knowing the stains you have will help you know what whitening treatment is best suitable for you. It’s worth noting that some stains won’t respond to specific whitening treatments. For instance, internal stains from tooth decay may not respond to teeth whitening or bleaching.

Usually, there are two types of teeth stains, namely:

• Extrinsic stains form on the tooth’s outer layer, enamel. They result from smoking, poor dental hygiene, and consumption of highly colored items. Extrinsic stains are easy to remove with teeth whitening or bleaching.
• Intrinsic stains. These internal stains go beyond the tooth’s enamel to the dentin, the soft layer below the enamel. These stains require more potent whitening treatments. Intrinsic stains result from natural aging, medications, and trauma.

How to Whiten Yellow Teeth

Once you visit our Edison dentist, they will determine the type of stains you have and recommend the most effective option to renew your smile. Common teeth whitening treatments include:

• Teeth whitening

You can benefit from teeth whitening or bleaching if you have external or extrinsic stains. In this case, you have two primary options to consider: professional teeth whitening or at-home teeth whitening with over-the-counter and home whitening products.

With professional teeth whitening, you can have the procedure completed in the dental office or use take-home whitening kits. In-office whitening typically offers the safety, quickest, most effective, and long-lasting results. The dentist begins by cleaning and polishing your teeth.
Next, they apply a bleaching agent (with a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide) to the teeth. The whitening treatment is activated using a special light or laser. Within an hour, you’ll have an immediate transformation.

If you don’t want the in-office treatment, your dentist can prepare customized whitening kits and gel to use at home. You should wear the whitening trays with the gel for a few hours a day for several weeks (Follow your dentist’s instructions). Contact our cosmetic dentist in Highland Park for professional teeth whitening treatments.

Alternatively, you can whiten your teeth without the help of your dentist; however, it’s not advisable. With at-home whitening, you can use over-the-counter whitening products such as whitening mouthwashes, toothpaste, trays, and strips. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions strictly to avoid side effects.

Instead of using over-the-counter products, some people opt for home remedies such as baking soda, apple cider, and activated charcoal. Please note that these products haven’t been scientifically proven effective or safe.

• Porcelain veneers or Lumineers®

If your teeth stains don’t respond to teeth bleaching, porcelain veneers might be a good alternative. Porcelain veneers are thin tooth-colored coatings placed on the front of the tooth to hide or cover discoloration.

When fitting a veneer, the dentist will have to shave a small portion of your tooth’s enamel to allow the veneer to fit perfectly. It makes the treatment irreversible.

If that’s a concern, you can go for a thinner type of traditional veneer called a Lumineer. Since a Lumineer is very thin, little to no teeth shaving is required, preserving the health of your tooth. You can remove it if you change your mind.

• Dental bonding

Dental bonding is a quick, less costly, and effective way to hide yellow stains on teeth. The dentist applies a tooth-colored bonding material on the tooth to change its color. The dentist uses a bonding material that closely matches your natural teeth.

• Porcelain crowns

A dental crown may be your only remedy for a whiter smile if you have deep stains caused by dental infections, trauma, or certain medications. A porcelain crown is a tooth-colored dental cap placed over a tooth to hide discolorations and other damage. The crown covers the entire visible structure of the tooth, thereby giving you an aesthetically pleasing smile.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Are you interested in a smile makeover in Edison, NJ? Contact KK Dental Edison today to book your appointment.

While a root canal isn’t likely to be an emergency, there are instances when it is an emergency treatment. Let’s discuss what root canal therapy entails and when it’s an emergency.

What is Root Canal Therapy?

A root canal is a dental procedure that saves a severely infected or decayed tooth. The dentist begins by numbing your mouth to lessen pain and discomfort during the procedure. Next, the dentist drills through the tooth and remove the infected pulp tissues and nerves. Then, the tooth is cleaned, rinsed, and disinfected thoroughly to prevent re-infection.

Since removing the decayed materials creates a hole inside the tooth, the dentist fills and seals it for further strength and protection. If the tooth is still weak, the dentist may recommend placing a dental crown for further strength and protection.

Why an Emergency Root Canal is Necessary

Tooth decay happens when plaque and bacteria attack the tooth’s enamel creating a hole. If not treated on time, plaque and bacteria build up in the hole and continue to attack the interior part of the tooth. It infects its blood vessels and nerves once it gets to the tooth’s pulp.

You’re likely to experience severe complications such as severe toothaches, abscesses, swelling, and sensitivity in such a case. Most of these symptoms can be severe for a patient to bear and are likely to interfere with their daily routine. For instance, a severe toothache can prevent someone from performing everyday activities such as cooking, cleaning, eating, sleeping, and more.

An emergency root canal is necessary to relieve the symptoms and address the underlying condition when the symptoms are bad enough. Contact our emergency dentist in Somerset, NJ, if you need an emergency root canal treatment.

In general, a root canal is your last hope of saving a severely decayed tooth. If a root canal treatment isn’t performed, the infection or decay will spread further, leading to tooth loss and infecting the surrounding teeth, gums, and jaw. If the damage is too extensive for a root canal, the alternative is extracting the tooth and replacing it with an implant, bridge, or denture.

3 Signs You Need an Emergency Root Canal

Below are common signs you need an emergency root canal treatment:

• Severe Toothache

Normally, unbearable pain from any part of your body should prompt you to seek emergency treatment. If you experience severe tooth pain, waiting until business or school hours are over might not be an option. The right thing to do is call for emergency services near you or have someone drive you to the nearby ER. An emergency dentist will examine your tooth and symptoms and may recommend an emergency root canal.

• Pus from a tooth

When a tooth is severely infected, you might notice pus or abscesses around the tooth. Tooth abscesses are serious infections that require emergency care. If not treated in time, the infection will spread to the surrounding teeth, gums, bone, and other body parts such as the heart and brain, leading to further complications. If the dentist thinks the abscess is serious enough, they can perform an emergency root canal to relieve the symptoms and save the tooth.

• Swelling around the affected tooth

If you’re experiencing severe swelling around a painful tooth, it can signify that you need an emergency root canal. The swelling results from the acidic waste products of decayed pulp tissues. Since pain accompanies the swelling, it’s essential to seek emergency dental care to manage the swelling and treat the tooth.

Final Verdict

If you have a badly infected or damaged tooth, you should seek immediate dental care. You’ll get relief from your symptoms and restore the health and function of your tooth. If you wait too long, you’ll lose the tooth. You risk the infection spreading to the surrounding parts of your mouth and body.

For more information about emergency root canals and endodontics specialists near you, contact KK Dental – Somerset.

Cavities and tooth decay are among the most common global dental issues. If you don’t treat cavities on time, they can lead to further complications such as decay, oral infections, severe tooth toothache, loose teeth, and tooth loss. Generally, preventive dentistry such as good oral care, routine dental checkups, cleaning, fluoride treatment, and dental sealants are your best protection against tooth decay and cavities.

Unfortunately, despite your best intentions, there is still a risk that you’ll develop a cavity at some point in your life. According to the CDC, approximately 90% of adults aged 20 and above have had one or more cavities.

Causes of Cavities

Generally, cavities don’t develop in a day; it’s a process that happens over time. Common causes of cavities include:

• Poor dental hygiene

Poor dental hygiene is the key reason behind cavities and tooth decay. According to experts, you should brush at least twice daily and floss once daily. Brushing and flossing help remove food particles and other debris trapped on the teeth and along the gum line.

If not eliminated, this debris mixes with bacteria in the mouth to form plaque. Plaque hardens to form tartar, a hard brown substance that sticks on the teeth. If not eliminated, these substances begin to attack the tooth’s enamel and eventually lead to cavities, decay, and gum disease.

With time, bacteria and plaque continue to eat up the teeth, moving towards the inner parts of the teeth. Eventually, the infection attacks the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels, causing severe symptoms such as pain, swelling, and abscesses. Over time, the infection can spread to surrounding teeth, jawbone, gums, and other body parts.

• Dental trauma

When a tooth is chipped, broken, or cracked, bacteria and plaque and bacteria can find their way into the tooth, infecting the tooth’s pulp and causing tooth decay. Dental trauma can be caused by sports injuries, bruxism, and more. To prevent this, ensure you find the proper treatment if you’ve experienced any dental damage. Your dentist can use procedures such as dental bonding, fillings, and crowns to repair the damage.

• Poor dietary habits

Certain foods can increase your risk of cavities and tooth decay. Patients who consume a diet high in acidic, sugary, and sticky items have a higher risk of cavities. They tend to stick on the tooth and are hard to brush off, causing decay.

Sugary foods encourage bacteria growth in the mouth. They attack the tooth’s enamel causing decay. If you consume these items, make sure to brush or rinse your mouth thoroughly afterward.

• Stomach acid

Digestive issues such as acid reflux can expose your mouth to acidity. Frequent episodes of these issues can erode the tooth’s enamel, making you more prone to tooth decay.

Symptoms of Cavities

Generally, a cavity doesn’t show any signs in the beginning. The signs and symptoms may also vary on the tooth’s location and the extent of the damage. Common tell-tale signs that you can watch out for include:

• Recurrent toothaches
• Pain when chewing or biting
• Spontaneous pain without apparent cause
• Tooth sensitivity
• Visible pits or holes in the teeth
• Sensitivity or pain when consuming hot, cold, or sugary items
• Teeth discoloration and staining
• Tooth abscesses
• Swollen gums around a painful tooth

Contact our dentist in New Brunswick, NJ, if you suspect you have might have cavities.

Who Is At Risk For Cavities?

While cavities are common among individuals of all ages, you might be at a higher risk if you:

• Have cracked, chipped, and broken tooth
• Take certain medications
• Snack frequently
• Have a history of cavities
• Often eat sugary, acidic, and sticky foods
• Had or are having neck or head radiation therapy

How to prevent cavities

Generally, cavities are easy to avoid. Here are tips for maintaining good oral health and preventing cavities:

• Brush twice daily and floss once daily
• Use fluoride toothpaste
• Have Regular fluoride treatments
• Apply dental sealants
• Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings
• Avoid frequent snacking
• Avoid hard, acidic, sugary, and sticky foods. Brush or rinse your mouth afterward if you must consume these items.
• Eat healthier and hydrate well
• Treat dental issues on time

Contact KK Dental – North Brunswick to speak with our general dentist in North Brunswick for more information about cavities and good oral health.