(217) 546-3333Advanced Dental Care of Springfield Blog
Do You Need an Emergency Visit with Your Dentist?
December 11, 2012
Accidents do happen from time to time which involve your teeth and knowing what action to take when an accident takes place could mean the difference between keeping and losing your tooth.
There are several situations that may take place involving your teeth that should be treated immediately and the majority of dentists set aside time throughout the day to handle such emergencies.
The following are examples of just some of the possible dental emergencies which need immediate treatment:
- If you have knocked out a tooth, you should attempt to place the tooth back into its socket without it coming in contact with the root. If that is too difficult to do, put it between your gums and cheek or immerse it in milk and then immediately make your way to an Emergency Dentist.
- If you crack a tooth, rinse out your mouth immediately with tepid water which will clean the affected area. Place on the face, on top of the area, cold compresses so as to prevent any swelling occurring.
- If you experience a toothache use some warm water to clean the affected area and by using dental floss loosen any food that has become trapped between your teeth. Do not place an aspirin tablet on top of the affected tooth or in the region of the gum as this could cause burning to the gum tissue. If the pain persists, you should immediately make an appointment to see your dentist.
- If you have managed to get an object stuck between your teeth, you should firstly attempt to dislodge it with dental floss. What you must not do is use a sharp implement to solve the problem. If the floss cannot move the object then you should pay a visit to your dentist as soon as possible, who will have an immediate solution which will save any damage to your teeth.
Avoidance of a dental emergency
There are some simple precautions that can be taken to avoid teeth damage which include:
- Wearing a mouth guard when involved in activities, either at work or on a sports field, which could damage teeth.
- Avoiding the chewing of nuts and hard candy varieties that could cause the cracking of a tooth.
- Avoiding the use of your teeth to cut open things such as packets or the cracking open of nuts. The appropriate tools should be used for these tasks such as scissors or nut crackers.
If you have had an unfortunate accident with your teeth and need to see a dentist for emergency treatment, then you should not hesitate to contact the dental offices of Dr. VanderMolen, Advanced Dental Care, at (217) 546-3333 right away. We will get you the emergency care you need.
Dr VanderMolen on FOX Scene with Lesley
Watch FOX Scene Springfield reporter Lesley interview Dr VanderMolen about the rapid orthodontics treatment plan.
A Better Smile with Cosmetic Dentures
December 4, 2012
Can dentures be cosmetic?
Missing teeth can cause one to be subconscious about their appearance. Fortunately there are solutions to get the beautiful smile you have been dreaming of. Dentures are a great solution for those missing teeth. Dentures are available for full-mouth, upper or lower jaws, and partials for when only a few teeth are missing.
Cosmetic Custom Dentures are made to fit you individually and give you a natural look made just for you. Color, shape and fit are chosen and adjusted to create the smile you want. An impression of your mouth is made and then the dentures are fabricated to your exact specifications. Adjustments are made after to make sure of a comfortable and natural fit.
Taking care of your mouth and dentures is very important to keeping your gums healthy and your new teeth looking beautiful. It is important to continue to brush your gums and tongue every morning and night. Cleaning your dentures is easy. Brush with a denture brush to remove food particles and then clean with a denture solution recommended by the ADA.
Getting used to your new dentures can take some time and patience, but soon you will find that they become a part of you. You will love your new smile!
Dr. VanderMolen has the expertise in custom dentures that you need. He and the staff at Advanced Dental Care will be happy to discuss your treatment options. For more information on this and out other services, contact us at (217) 546-3333. Click here for more information on the services we provide in the Springfield, IL area.
Your Options in Sedation Dentistry
November 27, 2012
Options in sedation dentistry
Often, a planned and necessary trip to the dentist is dreaded and deep anxiety sets in. This is labeled dental anxiety and is quite common when a person feels uncomfortable when put in a dental chair where they feel vulnerable.
When your dentist is conscious of the existence of dental anxiety, there are some methods that can be used to alleviate this type of stress. It may be simply a matter of discussing the up and coming dental event so as to stave off the dental anxiety. If the dental anxiety is more severe, then safe sedation dentistry techniques can be used to relax the patient and make the experience virtually pain and anxiety-free.
Conscious Sedation
The majority of dentists will opt to prescribe a sedative which is taken through the mouth before the start of treatment. If the person’s anxiety is extreme, the dentist may decide to prescribe a sedative that is to be taken while at home and one hour before going to bed the night prior to the appointment. These oral conscious sedation methods are the most effective in managing milder forms of anxiety.
Inhalation Conscious Sedation
The conscious sedative which is used is nitrous oxide and oxygen and has been used in sedation techniques in the dentistry field for generations and is still made use of by 35 percent of all U.S.A. dentists in dental anxiety cases that are only mild or moderate.
It should be emphasized that not every dentist employs conscious sedation methods as a way of relieving dental anxiety and fears. It is extremely important for patients to make sure their concerns and dental phobias are explained to the dentist on their first visit to the dental office. Ask if your dentist is experienced and certified in sedation dentistry.
If you or a member of your family is worried about a planned dental visit and are interested in discussing sedation techniques, then you should not hesitate to Contact the dental offices of Dr. VanderMolen, Advanced Dental Care, at (217) 546-3333 to discuss the options available to you.