(217) 546-3333Periodontal Disease: 5 Essential Facts You Should Know
December 16, 2013
What do you need to know about Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a very common oral problem faced by almost 75% of the world’s population in varying degrees of severity. Most of the forms of periodontal disease are easily preventable with appropriate oral hygiene measures.
- Do Not Ignore Bleeding Gums When Brushing!
The earliest sign of periodontal disease is swollen gums with bleeding while brushing. Soft food deposits that are not brushed out accumulate around the teeth and within the gums to cause irritation and swelling. Swollen gums bleed easily from the bristles of a toothbrush while brushing.
- Periodontal Disease Can Lead to Tooth Loss
Weak and swollen gums are the initial signs of bone loss. Once the gums get weakened, the underlying bone starts to disintegrate, thereby causing loose teeth due to inadequate support. If left untreated, you may lose even a healthy tooth that doesn’t have any decay to periodontal disease.
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Most Cases of Bad Breath are Related to Periodontal Disease
Bad breath can have serious effects on one’s self-confidence and social interactions. Periodontal disease has been reported as one of the most common causes of bad breath. Accumulation of food deposits and their further hardening causes the formation of tartar. This tartar irritates the surrounding gums and initiates the destructive stages of periodontal disease. The bacteria that causes bad breath thrives comfortably on teeth covered with tartar. A good oral hygiene regimen and periodontal treatments can reverse these issues and help eliminate many cases of bad breath.
- Periodontal Disease May Be Related To Various Systemic Diseases
According to recent studies, periodontal disease has shown a close association with systemic diseases like diabetes mellitus, Alzheimer’s disease, or cardiovascular disorders. While having a healthy mouth certainly no guarantee of good health the early detection and prevention of periodontal disease will definitely give your body the best chance to maintain good health.
- Periodontal Disease Can Be Reversed and Prevented!
Periodontal disease is a serious condition, but it can be treated with appropriate curative measures like scaling and root planing. With the help of routine dental check-ups, the disease can be diagnosed and treated at its initial stages, preventing excessive damage to both gums and teeth.
Regular Preventative Dentistry check-ups, at least twice a year, can help prevent Periodontal Disease from occurring. Together with your dentist, you can determine whether your oral hygiene practices are adequate enough to keep your gums and teeth healthy, and can catch any signs of trouble before they become larger issues.
Is it time for a dental checkup for you and your family? Make an appointment by calling Dr. VanderMolen at Advanced Dental Care of Springfield today at (217) 546-3333.
Click here for more information on the general dentistry services available at Advanced Dental Care. Let us help you get on track to a healthy smile today!
5 Important Facts about Cosmetic Fillings
December 2, 2013
No longer do you have to worry about unsightly metal fillings! Cosmetic, tooth-colored fillings are now readily available to keep your smile looking natural thanks to materials that mimic the tooth’s natural color and translucency, making them practically undetectable.
Here are 5 important facts about Cosmetic Fillings that make them a great option for replacing unsightly metal fillings:
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Tooth-Colored Fillings Offer Superior Aesthetic Properties
Tooth colored fillings are composed of a composite resin which can easily be matched to your natural tooth color and as a result the filling is almost seamless, making it virtually undetectable on all teeth. Thanks to the fact that most people won’t be able to tell you have cosmetic fillings; these fillings are often preferred over the traditional, unsightly, metal fillings.
- Cosmetic Fillings Chemically Bond To The Tooth
For silver amalgam fillings, the tooth has to be cut and shaped to ensure the filling remains intact within the cavity. Improper tooth preparation can lead to the filling being dislodged. In comparison, with cosmetic fillings little tooth preparation is required because it bonds to the tooth chemically. This means the natural tooth structure is preserved, resulting in a stronger, healthier tooth.
- The Physical Properties Of The Resin Are Close To Those Of Natural Teeth
One of the problems with metal fillings is that it is rigid and not very pliable. This can cause problems such as breakage of the tooth or filling itself. The composite resin used in cosmetic fillings on the other hand, flexes like a natural tooth does. As a result, there are fewer chances for the disintegration or breaking of the filling. Overall, when the physical properties of the filling match those of the tooth, the expected longevity, and durability of the filling increases.
- Cosmetic Fillings Are Versatile In Utility
As with traditional metal fillings, cosmetic fillings are used to fill cavities in both front and back teeth. However, because of their natural, tooth colored appearance, they can also be used to treat chipped teeth or correct gaps in teeth. They can also be used to conceal pits or discolorations on the teeth.
- No Negative Effects On The Body
Today’s composite resins used in cosmetic fillings are completely safe and produce no harmful effects on the surrounding tissues. While there is considerable debate as to the safety of traditional amalgam, metal fillings, most cosmetic fillings are biocompatible and as a result, there is no fear of toxicity.
Are you looking to replace unsightly metal fillings with natural-looking cosmetic fillings? Call Dr. VanderMolen and Advanced Dental Care at (217) 546-3333 for an appointment today! Click here for more information on all the services available at Advanced Dental Care of Springfield.
Caring for Your Teeth After the Braces Come Off
November 25, 2013
Your treatment is over! Continue to take good care of your smile to make sure it lasts a lifetime!
When orthodontics are first removed, most people feel a sense of freedom and relief. However, it is very important to maintain your oral hygiene routine after the braces have been removed. To maintain your new smile, a lifetime of good, preventative oral care will be required. If you choose not to follow oral care recommendations provided by your dentist or orthodontist, or do not wear your retainer if applicable, your teeth can revert back to their original location. After having spent so much time, money and effort on straightening your teeth, why not maintain them for years to come?
Most importantly, maintaining a daily brushing and flossing routine is essential for a healthy mouth. Preventing tooth decay, bacteria and plaque buildup will reduce the chances that teeth will have issues in the future. A good oral hygiene routine will increase confidence and keep your smile beautiful. It is also important to schedule regular visits to your dentist for check-ups and cleanings. Your doctor may take digital X-rays as well to examine the teeth further and ensure they are maintaining their new positions.
In the past, retainers were worn for a short period of time after braces were removed. In recent years, dentists and orthodontists have realized that continuing to wear a retainer on a regular basis can make all the difference in keeping your straightened smile secure. If a retainer is recommended for you, be sure to follow your dentist or orthodontist’s instructions on how and when to wear it for the best result. It is also very important to keep your retainer clean. Plaque and bacteria can build up on the appliance causing oral problems such as bad breath. Some popular cleaning methods include vinegar washes, denture cleaner and a simple brushing with toothpaste.
For tender gums following braces removal, rinsing the oral cavity with warm or hot salt water can alleviate soreness and swelling. Sometimes the gums may be sensitive to flossing, as it is difficult to fully clean them with braces on, the salt water rinse should help firm the gums back up and have them healthy in no time.
Dr. Matt VanderMolen at Advanced Dental Care of Springfield can assist you with any of your post-braces needs and create a customized plan for your oral care. Call to schedule your appointment today, at (217) 546-3333. Click here for more information on all the services available at Advanced Dental Care.
Dental Implants: A Popular Dental Treatment
September 9, 2013
Why Are Dental Implants So Popular?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are inserted into the jaw bone surgically. They provide an excellent means of tooth replacement. They are usually made out of titanium and titanium alloys. The success of dental implants lies on the level of osseointegration (fusion of implants to the jaw bone); thus good oral hygiene and bone density are essential.
Dental implants are one of the latest innovative developments in dentistry and are gaining popularity day by day. Some reasons for their increasing popularity are:
- High Aesthetic Appeal
A dental implant cannot be distinguished from a natural tooth easily because it gives the impression of growing out of the gums naturally. The growing popularity of dental implants is due to their excellent aesthetic properties. To look great and feel confident is what everyone looks for while opting for any type of tooth replacement.
- Superior In Function
Apart from looking natural, dental implants give a natural feel as well. They function independently similar to any other tooth in dentition. The biting forces on the implant are directed to the jaw bone directly without affecting the adjacent teeth. Patients have stated that they feel extremely comfortable while chewing with dental implants. This is mainly due to their enhanced efficiency compared to dentures. Dental Implants are the superior option for smile restorations.
- Highly Durable
When compared to dentures, dental implants are highly durable and long-lasting. Dentures need replacement after about 5 years whereas implants do not need to be replaced once they are taken up by the jaw bone. They can last for a lifetime with good oral hygiene and preventative dental maintenance.
- Renders Confidence
Many people with dentures become self-conscious while smiling. This is because sometimes dentures can be loose and snap down creating an extremely embarrassing situation. Such incidents are less than ideal, for certain. On the contrary, dental implants are secure and natural feeling and can boost the self-esteem.
Are you interested in learning more about dental implants? Attend one of our monthly Dental Implant Seminars. For details and dates, please contact us at (217) 546-3333 or Click Here.
Dr. VanderMolen has the answers you need. Call and make an appointment at Advanced Dental Care today, (217) 546-3333.
Implant Dentistry for the Preservation of Teeth
August 19, 2013
Improving a Smile with Implant Dentistry
Implant dentistry is commonly referred to as restorative dentistry or cosmetic dentistry. One of the most common procedures is dental implants. Dental Implants restore teeth that are missing or have been damaged beyond repair. The implants operate as replacement teeth and are usually made out of ceramic material with a titanium root to ensure strength and durability for the patient. Dental implants are designed to match perfect and with natural teeth and they are also personalized for each patient so that they fit comfortably.
Tooth restoration is performed by Dr. VanderMolen for patients who have damaged and broken teeth. Dental implants help improve the condition of the teeth and gums because if teeth are missing, the gums are exposed, thus resulting in a greater chance of infection and gum disease. After the implants are placed, both bone and gum are preserved. Patients can be proud of their new smile.
Dr. VanderMolen will consult with each patient who is interested in implant dentistry. He will examine the teeth and the jawbone to get an idea of what is exactly going on inside the mouth of the patient and to create a customized treatment plan. Dental implants are an improvement when compared to dentures, which are often considered uncomfortable and may even slip out of the mouth. The dental implants feel completely natural and they are a permanent solution, which means that they likely will not need to be replaced.
If you are considering implant dentistry, call (217) 546-3333 for an appointment or attend one of our No Cost/No Obligation Dental Implant Seminars. The staff at Advanced Dental Care will have you loving your new smile in no time!
Click here for more information on the services available at Advanced Dental Care.