monroe, Author at Adam Brown Dentistry - Monroe NC Dentist

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Your Teeth Are Uniquely Yours: 15 Things You Didn’t Know About Your Teeth

monroe2020-07-16T17:02:14+00:00November 1st, 2017|General|

Your teeth: you learned how to brush them, you learned how to floss them, and you learned how to swish your mouth with fluoride. You went through the joy and pains of losing your baby teeth to gaining your permanent teeth, and possibly dealing with wisdom teeth. You know that your teeth are an essential part of your daily life, health, and confidence. Beyond all the things you already know about your teeth, Carolina’s Dental Choice wants to share some fun facts with you!

Your mouth is home to 300 types of bacteria.

Before you worry about the high number of bacteria, know that most of the bacteria in your mouth are naturally occurring and actually work together to prevent decay. Bacteria can live on the gums, teeth, tongue and cheek. As for the bad bacteria living in your mouth, brushing and flossing your teeth keeps bad bacteria at bay.

Not everyone has two sets of teeth.

Most people are born with two sets of teeth, the primary teeth (or as you may have called them, your baby teeth, that you lose) and permanent teeth. We lose baby teeth because a child’s mouth cannot hold 32 teeth, and the permanent teeth push them out. However, a small amount of people (2.5 to 6.9 percent of the population) did not have permanent teeth come in, and their baby teeth remain and become their permanent teeth.

The hardest part of your body is enamel.

Enamel is the outer layer of all the teeth in your mouth. You may not have known that enamel is also the hardest part of your entire body! But, even as the hardest part of your body, it is also more brittle and is susceptible to breaking more easily. Yellowing teeth can be due to decaying enamel, and we can often become altered to decaying enamel from the pain it causes. Because enamel can’t repair itself, dentists can treat decaying enamel with tooth decay removal, sealants, fillings, and more. Ultimately, we want to protect our enamel and reverse any tooth decay with daily brushing, flossing, fluoride, and drinking more water.

Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth taken out.

Although it’s hard to know exactly how many people actually have to get their wisdom teeth removed, it’s estimated that around 60-85% get their wisdom teeth taken out. Fun fact: as we evolve our jaw length is getting shorter and the wisdom teeth do not have enough room to come in. This causes a lot of us pain and requires us to have them surgically removed as they start to come in. On the other hand, some people are just lucky enough to be born without wisdom teeth!

Teeth can grow in strange places.

It’s a rare case, but teratomas can cause tumors to have teeth. Yes, you read that correctly. Teratomas are tumors that contain developed tissue, which themselves contain teeth, hair, and bone. It forms in the fetus and is seldom cancerous, meaning teratomas can be removed and treated with little risk. While the condition can terrifyingly occur in anyone, teratomas are rare, and its very unlikely you have to worry about it.

Teeth are the only structures in your body that can’t repair themselves.

If your teeth are chipped or lost, only a dentist can repair it. Unlike other parts of your body, like muscles and certain bones, your teeth are not alive and are not self-repairing structures. But there’s no need to fret over a chipped or lost tooth with the dentistry available today—they’ll have your smile looking better in no time!

You can brighten your smile without braces.

We all want white, aligned, and shapely teeth, and veneers can be one way for us to achieve that! A veneer is a porcelain shell placed over the surface of your teeth. They not only brighten your smile, but can prevent further tooth damage and expensive treatments.

Some teeth can be pretty expensive.

Many celebrities opt go to extreme lengths to perfect their smiles. We see that with the dazzling smiles of those like actor Tom Cruise, who spent $30,000 on dental work, and model Victoria Beckham, who spent over $40,000 total on her teeth. The most expensive singular tooth however, sold was that (reportedly) of the late John Lennon, which sold for $36,857 at an auction house in 2011.

Your drinking water protects your teeth.

In 1945, Grand Rapids, Michigan was the first community to put fluoride in their water system, and now, two-thirds of U.S. population gets fluoride from their drinking water. While many people have concerns about fluorosis, a condition that causes white spots on the teeth from ingesting too much fluoride, the amount of fluoride in the drinking water is totally safe. Most cases of fluorosis are actually from kids under eight years old ingesting toothpaste, so be sure to monitor children as they perform their dental maintenance routines.

Your teeth begin to develop at six weeks in utero.

As early as six weeks, your teeth begin to develop in the womb. You can actually tell a lot of about the mother and the environment she was in during the pregnancy term (think: nutrition, pollution, disease) by examining a baby’s teeth. A baby’s teeth do not begin to come in until they are between six to twelve months old.

A toothbrush and floss aren’t the only weapons you have to protect your teeth.

We know it as the universal solvent, but we certainly don’t credit saliva enough as a natural defendant against dental plaque. Your toothbrush misses 35% of your tooth’s surfaces, so while flossing is very important, your saliva can also help break down any bad bacteria and plaque. We create a surprising amount of saliva, at 35,000 liters, in a lifetime—that’s enough to fill up two swimming pools!

Your teeth can be an indicator of your overall health.

Oral health is an indicator of your overall health. Just as your teeth can affect other organs in your body, problems in the rest of your body can also manifest in your mouth. For example, flat teeth and headaches are an indicator of grinding teeth at night, which is caused by stress. Or, suspicious sores in the mouth that won’t go away can be also be a sign of oral cancer. From the mouth, we can find indicators of serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. It’s definitely important that you go to the dentist not only for your routine teeth cleaning, but also to get an idea of how your oral and overall health is doing.

Smile, Happy, Feel Better Smiling, Dentist, Dental Office

Your smile can make you feel better with the release of neurotransmitters.

It sounds silly, but a smile a day can keep the doctor away! Your smile can cause a release of endorphins and serotonin. Endorphins make us feel happy and lower our stress levels; as we smile and release of endorphins, we’re naturally boosting our mood. Serotonin, which as also released when you smile, is an anti-depressant and natural pain-reliever. Loving your smile can truly make you and those around you happier and healthier.

Nervous habits can chip your chompers.

Not only does it ruin your nails and cuticles, but nail biting, a nervous and often unconscious tick, can actually cause major damage to your teeth. Constantly biting down on one part of your tooth can chip or fracture your tooth. Over time, nail biting can even lead to TMJ, a condition caused from excess stress and pain in the joint and muscles we use to chew. Luckily, by keeping your nails short or recognizing that you’re nail biting as a result of stress or boredom can encourage you to find other calming options.

Unique teeth, Smile, Happy, Feel Better Smiling, Dentist, Dental Office

Your teeth are as unique as you!

Our teeth are unique—in fact, none of the 32 teeth in your mouth are the same. No two people have the same teeth either, not even identical twins. Just like our DNA inherently makes us unique, our genes can also impact our grin. If gapped teeth or missing teeth run in your family, you can also get dental abnormalities passed down from your parents. Because teeth are unique, they can also be used as identifiers. In forensic dentistry, we can study people’s teeth to see who they were, what they did, or used to identify human remains.

You can love your teeth and smile without knowing everything about them, but having a broader appreciation of your teeth makes them all the more impressive. While there are many ways to care for your unique teeth and overall oral health, if you want to talk about your smile with professionals that are eager to chat with you, contact Carolina’s Dental Choice today.

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The Secret Behind Flossing!

monroe2020-07-16T17:02:38+00:00September 29th, 2017|General|

Carolina’s Dental Choice takes pride in helping people have healthy teeth and a smile they want to show off. This is why we encourage people to floss daily. Flossing is a simple task that can be done in just a few minutes but stubborn non-flossers often underestimate the importance of those few minutes. Flossing cleans in-between the teeth and reaches places that simply brushing cannot. When you floss, you remove those tiny food particles and plaque that can’t be seen in-between your teeth and by removing the plaque, you can help prevent tooth decay.

Flossing is a must for good oral health. We know that flossing can be a little tricky and can be easily forgotten but flossing is essential to keeping your gums and teeth healthy. Flossing not only removes food from in-between the teeth, but it also helps protect the gums by cleaning out foods that, if stuck between your teeth, could cause bacteria to grow on the gums. Flossing breaks down the plaque and bacteria biofilm on your teeth and protects your teeth from decaying and your gums from Gingivitis.

Believe it or not, when bacteria is left in-between your teeth it can actually change the whole ecosystem of your mouth. This can make you more vulnerable to bacteria related infections. Bacteria and plaque are your gums worst nightmare. The gums are very sensitive and when they come in contact with bacteria and plaque it can cause serious problems. Gum decay and gum infections are very common and if untreated can lead to gum disease.

Do your gums bleed when you floss? This is normal. Gums are sensitive and if they are not used to regular flossing, the flossing will irritate them until they become adjusted. Once you begin flossing daily, your gums will become stronger so that your gums will be less irritated and bleed less often.

Here at Carolina’s Dental Choice we want our patients to have the healthiest smile they can. Having routine visits to our office will help you keep your teeth happy. Just don’t forget to practice daily oral hygiene as well. Schedule an appointment at our office or give us a call to learn more about oral hygiene.

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Dry Mouth in the Elderly

monroe2020-07-16T17:03:08+00:00September 14th, 2017|General|

Dry mouth syndrome, otherwise known as Xerostomia, is much more than simply feeling parched every now and again. As we age the composition of our saliva changes, and we produce less of it. There seems to be no real cause for this reduction in saliva produced, but it can become a serious problem, one that tends to gradually become worse the older we get. This is why we, at Carolina’s Dental Choice, encourage all our patients who experience dry mouth to come in for a quick check-up. Whether you are young or old, and experience mild or severe xerostomia, it is worth a visit to one of our professionals who can help find a way for you to feel better again.

An Increasing Elderly Population

Thanks to an ever-increasing mortality rate and decreasing fertility rate, America’s elderly population is growing. With a better quality of life comes a richer, longer one. However, there are always two sides to the coin. As our mortality rate continues to grow, we find the need to deal with certain pesky health complications that target the elderly. One in particular, being oral care. Sure, we have found ways to deal with rotting teeth and gum disease. Veneers, dentures, and bridges have come a long way. The practice of restorative dentistry is beyond impressive, just ask any Carolina’s Dental Choice patient and he or she will attest to the wonders of modern dentistry. We can and have done wonderful things for elderly people who find their oral health deteriorating, but one condition that seems to often get missed is dry mouth syndrome. This tends not to be dealt with because most people feel it is one that must be endured. What a lot of elderly people do not know is that dry mouth syndrome can lead to some pretty serious health problems if it is not dealt with. The truth is this is not a condition that needs to be suffered through. For the sake of one’s health and quality of life, dry mouth is something to be taken seriously.

What Xerostomia Can Lead To

Chronic dry mouth can cause difficulty in speech, kill the appetite, and can even lead to cavities and bad breath. In older patients who find their gums beginning to recede, this can be even more detrimental. Dry mouth can affect the exposed area of the teeth, causing them to rot. To add to this problem, taking medication regularly can induce dry mouth. Since the elderly generally take more medication than younger individuals, this directly targets them.

Constant sore throat, dry nasal passages, dental decay, difficulty swallowing and speaking, these all can be a direct results due to poorly produced saliva. Our saliva does so much more than simply lubricate the mouth. One of its most important jobs is to neutralize and rinse away bacteria and acids that are harmful to the teeth and gums. Sadly, as we grow older our mouth produces less saliva, thus leading to xerostomia. This is why Carolina’s Dental Choice takes dry mouth seriously. We know how uncomfortable it can be to have a constantly dry pallet. No one, especially the elderly, should have to suffer through this, which is why we have come up with a few helpful hints for those who are ready to get passed their bouts of dry mouth.

Home Remedies for Dry Mouth Syndrome

If you are tired of constantly having dry mouth there are some pretty successful home remedies you can try. Here are the ones we recommend:

This seems a bit obvious, but it’s rather surprising how many people do not drink enough water. According to the Mayo Clinic, older men should drink at least three liters of water a day. Older women should have two to three liters. It’s also important to drink water throughout the day, rather than trying to get it all down in one sitting. By continually drinking water during the day you can help keep your mouth moist and fresh.

Sugar-Free Candies. Sucking on sugar-free candy is a great way to temporarily stimulate the production of saliva. Any time your mouth feels dry, pop in a candy. Just be sure your candy is sugar-free, as sucking on sugar can cause tooth decay and continue to dry out the mouth.

Sugar-Free Gum. Just as with candy, chewing gum does a wonderful job at stimulating saliva production. Though it is only a temporary fix, chewing gum can last longer than sucking on a piece of candy. Nowadays there are plenty of sugar-free options to choose from, but it’s best to make sure you choose gum with an ADA Seal of Acceptance.

Stay Away From Caffeine. This might be the most difficult one to do, but it makes a huge difference. Caffeine naturally dries out the mouth, which will only make things much worse. Choose decaffeinated coffees and teas so you can still enjoy the taste of your favorites, and if you rely on these drinks to wake you up in the morning there are plenty of other options to get you up and moving. A full breakfast, fresh fruit, oats, almonds, these are great ways to wake up. Try eating an apple first thing in the morning. You will be amazed at how well it stimulates. Some even say an apple is more powerful than a cup of coffee!

Keep a Humidifier Running. Having a little extra moisture in the air can do wonders to relieve dry mouth. For $50 to $100 you can purchase a nice little humidifier that will keep your room, or even your entire house, free of dry, stale air.

Breathe Through Your Nose. As much as you can, try and breath only through your nose, as mouth breathing quickly dries the mouth out. Obviously there are times when you need to breathe through the mouth, like when you are running short of breathe, but when you are resting utilize the nose.

Stay Away From Smoke. Smoke, especially from cigarettes or cigars, drastically dries out the mouth. Even just being around those who smoke can cause a reaction. Try your best to stay smoke free, and if you have friends or family members who smoke, kindly ask them to put it out.

Use the Right Mouthwash. Rinsing the mouth a few times a day with alcohol-free mouthwash is another great way to keep the mouth moist. Just make sure it truly is alcohol-free! Alcohol is another one that tends to dry the mouth.

Floss Daily. Those of us who suffer from dry mouth can end up with periodontal disease due to bits of food and decay stuck between teeth. These bits of food can become dangerous when there is not enough saliva in the mouth to break them down. You can counteract this problem by flossing at least once a day. Morning and night are the ideal times, but if you can only do one, try and floss right before bed. This way you are not sleeping, and possibly mouth breathing, with dirty teeth.

Our last bit of advice is possibly the most important: come see us for a teeth cleaning. Not only will we make sure your teeth are shiny and clean, we can also find additional ways to help your specific case of dry mouth. This way, if you suffer from extremely dry mouth we can advise on some more serious methods to make you happy again. Call us at 704-289-9104, or visit our website: https://adambrown.wpengine.com. See you soon!

By: Andrae Bergeron

Content Writer

CCP Web Design

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The Long-Term Effects of Opioid Use on the Teeth

monroe2021-02-05T17:58:45+00:00August 30th, 2017|General|

Sitting on your couch watching TV, you hear the commercial that seems to have found the perfect cure to a common illness, you sit and listen and observe the happy people, then the commercial ends and a quick and speedy list of about a million side effects are announced in a low monotone voice. Carolina’s Dental Choice wants you to know the negative effects opioids have on your teeth. The fact of the matter is this: there is a good chance that due to modern advancements in medicine, we have begun to take advantage of the fact that there is a drug for just about any ailment. We have become so focused on feeling better, we have neglected to read the fine print. This is not to say modern medicine is bad. Rather, it is important that we take extra good care of our teeth. This is true more now than ever, especially with the use of opioids on the rise.

Narcotic pain relievers prescribed only by a medical professional are called opioids. Most of us know them better by their particular names such as hydrocodone, oxycodone, morphine, and codeine, but each of these opioids carries with it a dangerous condition: dry mouth. There are many side effects to opioid use (addiction being the most deadly), but dry mouth is the one that can do direct damage to the teeth. What happens when we use opioids for short or long periods of time is the saliva deteriorates from the mouth. We need the bacteria in saliva to be continually present in order to fight off infection, tooth decay, and a host of other possible issues. Admittedly, dry mouth does not sound to be all that serious of a problem, but it is important to understand that dry mouth is simply the source of other much more serious side effects to opioid use.

This is not to say opioids are bad, but the long-term effects of opioid use can be extremely hazardous to the teeth if specific measures are not taken. Here are several of the symptoms that can become present after opioid use:

Dryness in the mouth and throat – this can cause discomfort when talking or trying to swallow. It can keep you from sleeping, even keep you from eating.

Thick saliva – this is when the little saliva you have left in your mouth becomes viscous or mucus-like. This can interfere with speech, eating, and drinking. It can also create bad breath.

Sore throat – we all know how terrible it is to have a sore throat. It’s difficult to sleep and swallow. It can even be painful to speak at times.

Increase in plaque development – more plaque means higher chances for cavities and rotted teeth. Gum infection can also occur.

Bad breath – there are different types of bad breath: one caused from the foods or drinks we intake and another from dry mouth. The former can be dealt with by brushing, chewing gum, or taking mints. The latter is minimally effected by these things, and continuously gets worse with the more opioids we take.

Mouth sores – these painful infections seem to irritate to no end, and without enough saliva in the mouth, they take longer to go away.

Poor sense of taste – dry mouth can even cause our taste buds to suffer. Foods begin to taste dull, flat, or completely void of flavor altogether.

Luckily, there are remedies for dry mouth, and by taking a little time out of your day, these side effects of opioid use can be one less thing to worry about.

If you have been prescribed an opioid it is extremely important to have routine exams at Carolina’s Dental Choice. Once you are here, we can have a close look at your teeth and mouth to see what is most likely to happen once you begin taking the medication. We can even discuss possible side effects specific to your teeth from long-term opioid use. Regardless of how long you will be on the medication, there are a few things to start doing in order to counteract the many possible outcomes previously listed due to opioid use.

One thing you can do is purchase artificial saliva spray. This can help to moisten the mouth and increase the flow of saliva. If your dry mouth continues, you may want to contact your physician. He or she can prescribe Pilocarpine, which helps stimulate salivary glands to create saliva. Before trying either of these things, start by drinking extra water to see if it does the trick.

There are a few good home remedies that have proven to help many suffering from dry mouth, and it never hurts to try these first.

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and floss each time as well.

Drink plenty of water or unsweetened fluids with meals.

Use only sugar-free mints or gum to stimulate saliva flow.

Try to breathe primarily out of the nose rather than your mouth.

The digestion of food is dependent upon saliva. Saliva not only keeps the mouth moist, it also helps prevent against viruses, fungi, and tooth decay from taking place inside the mouth. Even if you are taking measures to control your dry mouth, it is essential that you still come into Carolina’s Dental Choice regularly for cleanings and checkups. Viruses, fungi, and tooth decay are not always apparent at first, which is why you want a professional who can detect and deal with them right away.

Here are a few more things to consider:

Brush your teeth with soft bristles. If soft bristles still cause pain or irritation, try soaking the bristles in warm water prior to use.

Avoid flossing around bleeding or sore gums, as this can cause more serious problems. If your gums do not seem to be getting better, make an appointment with Carolina’s Dental Choice right away.

Use a mouthwash that contains fluoride and that does not contain alcohol. Alcohol in mouthwash can actually encourage dry mouth.

As much as possible, refrain from sticky, sugary foods and drinks. Any time you do consume these, be sure to brush your teeth right afterward.

Drink a lot of water throughout the day. This almost goes without saying, but it really can help keep the mouth from remaining dry.

Run a humidifier in your room while you sleep. This will make sure the air you are breathing in is not too dry.

Alcoholic and caffeinated drinks tend to quickly dry out the mouth. If you partake of either make sure you drink plenty of water before and after. Brushing your teeth after these can help as well.

We Can Help You

At Carolina’s Dental Choice we are here to help you. If you have been prescribed opioids, and have found that your mouth feels a little dryer than usual, come see us. Any or all of the preventative measures listed here can help, but allowing one of our trained professionals to look at your mouth can help pinpoint the most effective way for you to protect yourself from extreme dry mouth.

By: Andrae Bergeron

Content Writer

CCP Web Design

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Why is Dental Insurance and Dental Health Not Included in Regular Healthcare?

monroe2020-07-16T17:13:58+00:00July 31st, 2017|General|

Though dentistry is a medical practice, and is a very important part of an individual’s bodily health, both the medical system and insurance programs do not see it this way. They actually never have. For some strange reason, anything dental related is considered separate from these institutions. Dental insurance and dental health plans are not typically included in regular healthcare, which ends up leaving patients in a pricy predicament that produces negative results. At Carolina’s Dental Choice, we won’t leave you confused as to what is and is not covered. We are committed to taking care of all our patients, and this begins with understanding that dental health is bodily health.

There are countless tales of woe depicting situations where individuals with mild to severe dental issues are not able to receive the care they need because their healthcare provider simply does not cover dental. These individuals end up having to live with the pain caused by cavities, chipped or dead teeth, or even more complicated issues requiring dental surgery. Dental care is simply not seen as a part of one’s health. This makes absolutely no sense. To say there is no link between a person’s dental health and his or her overall health, is completely untrue. Just ask any dentist. Poor oral health can devastate the rest of the body. So why don’t regular healthcare providers see it this way? Well, it’s a bit complicated and extremely antiquated.

A Strange History

Nowadays, dentists are known to be highly trained professionals who have endured numerous years learning their craft but this has not always been the case. An article in the Atlantic provides a brief history of dentistry. The article states that up until the 1800s, all dental problems were taken care of by local barbers. Sounds a little strange, huh? Imagine popping in for a quick shave only to have your barber explain that he needs to pull a few teeth. The local barber could become a primitive dentist in a pinch, often times even conducting minor surgeries as well. This was this way dental worked for years because surgery and medicine were seen as two completely different practices. A barber could also be a dentist and a surgeon, since these practices were messy and barbaric. Bad teeth were yanked from the mouth. Open wounds were sewn back up without numbing agents. It didn’t really take someone well practiced as it did someone who could handle dealing with lots of blood and screaming. Whereas the practice of medicine was more refined, requiring intelligence and finesse. Deciding what would help a patient cope with pain and injury took time and education. So it makes sense for the separation between dentistry and medicine. At least it makes sense for back then.

But once anesthesia and numbing agents came about, everything changed. Patients could now be put under or numbed, and the practice of surgery and dentistry became more sophisticated. People began to study oral health more seriously, leading to a true profession in the field of dentistry. Even though the idea of dentistry was changing to something proper and professional, the stigma of its previous uncivilized nature was never dropped. Students wishing to pursue studies in dentistry had difficulty

gaining acceptance into medical schools, and they were often left to teach themselves.

The Stigma Continues

Up into the mid 1960s, dentistry was still seen as something not quite connected to our bodily health. It just didn’t carry the same level of importance to society as other medical practices. And when Medicaid was finally established, dental was not included. But that was over fifty years ago, and we know so much more now. It’s clear that oral health is indeed directly connected to our overall health. But for some reason, today’s healthcare providers typically only offer dental for children and pregnant women. The rest of us are on our own. And this is a scary thought seeing how anything beyond a teeth cleaning can end up costing a lot of money. And for those who cannot afford such procedures, they are left to live with the pain. And sadly, this pain usually evolves into more serious issues that cost even more money.

According to The Atlantic, “Just 12 states include the full suite of dental services, including common procedures like crowns and root canals, for Medicaid patients. Three offer nothing at all. The rest provide something in between—usually a list of preventative procedures, like cleanings and X-rays, and sometimes extractions and fillings” (Khazan). And the article goes on to say that when state budgets get tight, guess what gets cut first? Yep, anything to do with dental.

It Just Doesn’t Add Up

Think of the results of poor oral health, bad breath, missing, or discolored teeth can, at the very minimum, reduce confidence. They can even keep you from getting that job you want or impact relationships with friends and loved ones. On a larger scale, poor oral health can effect your very being. Dental problems can cause chronic headaches, diabetes, and heart problems. Nerves that are connected to your mouth can reverberate pain to other parts of your body, resulting in pain all over, not just in the mouth. Yet our healthcare providers continue to see dental issues as completely separate from other bodily health problems. But aren’t our mouths, and everything inside of them, a part of our body? Uh, yeah. How is it logical then that health insurance plans can decide which parts of our body are to be covered? It just doesn’t add up.

It Gets Worse

It’s bad enough that most dental needs are not covered by regular insurance providers, but what’s even worse is that what is covered is incredibly confusing to understand. Usually, the dental procedures included are labeled as “Additional Benefits,” implying they are extra services rather than those that are normally in need by everyone. Healthcare providers also like to explain that they are not required to provide the dental services listed, and that they have the right to discontinue the coverage of any or all of them whenever they want. This means you can go to a dentist one day to have a cavity taken care of, and then come back the very next day for the same procedure only to find out it’s not covered any longer. Healthcare customers are often left in the dark as to which procedures are actually covered. There have been cases of individuals who were covered for a more complicated procedure, such as a root canal, but were not covered for something simple, like a routine cleaning.

What this confusion does, besides cost us more money, is encourage people to not see their dentist regularly. Whereas it is strongly recommended to visit the dentist for a cleaning and checkup every six months, most people only see their local dentist once a year at best. Some just don’t go at all. And this works right into the hands of the healthcare providers. We pay to be insured, they make dental so confusing we don’t end up using it.

Let Us Take Care of You

At Carolina’s Dental Choice we are just as upset about the current state of dental insurance as you. That’s why we are clear and up front about everything. We will not only let you know which insurance companies we accept, but we will also help you understand what procedures are covered. Dental care is a health issue, and we take it very seriously. It’s time to get what you are paying for. Begin to take advantage of your provider’s dental coverage, as big or little as it may be.

By: Andrae Bergeron

CCP Web Design

Content Writer

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Laser Shaping Your Teeth and Gums

monroe2020-07-16T17:09:04+00:00June 15th, 2017|General|

The evolution of dentistry is astounding. When you look back at how simple procedures like teeth cleanings and cavity removals took place back in the day and compare it to now, there’s quite a difference. For instance, rather than someone coming at you with a sharp piece of metal, asking you to “open wide,” you can now sit, relax, and have a professionally trained dentist shape and contour the interior of your smile with a laser. Yes, I said LASER. If our ancestors could see the progress made in the modern dental field they would be nothing short of amazed. At Carolina’s Dental Choice we have made it our goal to operate with the most advanced methods of dentistry, and we’re proud to say we have become quite good at it.

LASERS!?

Lasers, Lightsaber

Something about the word “laser” brings forth futuristic images of bright lights cutting through metal or zapping some fictional bad guys into oblivion. But the truth is, lasers are real and are used frequently in all sorts of fields. Even in dentistry. Well, why not? If you break the acronym down, it actually doesn’t seem so fictional:

L—light
A—amplified
S—stimulated
E—emission
R—radiation

A laser is a device that uses radiation to stimulate light so that it can penetrate a foreign material. Now think of materials in the mouth that may need complete removal or reshaping. Things like cavities or excess gums overlapping the teeth. Lasers don’t sound so far off now, huh?

A Closer Look at Laser Dentistry

Understanding what a laser can do to cavities or gums is nice, but there is probably still some reluctance towards having a radiated light shot into your mouth. But when you take a closer look at the process, you can see it is actually very safe and effective.

Dental Laser, Laser Shaping Gums, Carolinas Dental Choice, Dentistry NC, Monroe NC, Teeth Shaping

Since the mid-90s, lasers have been slowly incorporated into dentistry for use on such things as:

Tooth Decay. Using a laser to remove the decaying portion of a tooth has proven to be a quicker and more efficient process.
Gum Disease. A laser is a great way to reshape gums and remove built-up bacteria without damaging the teeth.
Because a laser is so precise it can be used to remove a very small portion of tissue without affecting the surrounding areas. This creates a faster healing process also, which makes for happier patients!
Teeth Whitening. Modern dentistry has found a way to apply a peroxide bleaching solution and then have it activated by a laser to speed the whitening process up. Most importantly, it’s completely painless.

And that’s not all. Lasers can also be used for reducing the pain of canker and cold sores. They can expose hidden wisdom teeth. Remove excess muscles in the mouth that restrict proper movement. Help treat infections from root canals. The list just continues to grow. And a huge selling point to using lasers is the fact that they work speedily and require little prep work and recovery time. And if you are worried about safety, think about the alternative: a drill.

Sure, it might not be the size and shape of the one sitting in your garage, but it is essentially the same machine that twists and sharp object at high speed then shreds whatever tissue it encounters. Unlike the controlled accuracy of a laser, the drill is messy and loud. Is laser treatment beginning to sound a little more realistic? Good.

Different Lasers for Different Treatments

Essentially, there are two types of lasers used in dentistry: one kind for soft tissue and another for hard tissue.

Soft Tissue Lasers. These use an absorbable wavelength, making them less dangerous to use on softer tissue like the gums. The surrounding areas can then absorb and handle the effect of the beam without being damaged. Another benefit to using a soft tissue laser is that it has the capability to kill bacteria and encourage new growth. Postoperative pain is nil to nothing at all with soft tissue lasers because, at the same time they are penetrating one area of tissue, they are able to seal the surrounding blood vessels. Soft tissue lasers are typically used for:

Soft Tissue Folds. Devices such as dentures can cause actual folds of tissue in the mouth, which need to be removed. A laser is the painless way to take care of this issue and reshape the gums as they should be.

Crown Lengthening. This is a form of gum reshaping so that the foundation of the tooth is strengthened and exposed, making it healthier in the long run.

Muscle Attachment. For those who have limited tongue movement due to muscle restraints, a soft tissue laser can be used to reshape or remove pieces of tissue to free up the tongue and allow for better movement in the mouth.

Hard Tissue Lasers. These types of lasers have a high enough wavelength so that they can cut into hard tissues such as bone and teeth. This laser has such incredible accuracy that it only penetrates the desired material and causes little to no impact on the surrounding areas. A hard tissue laser is used for:

Prepping Dental Fillings. A drill is usually used to rid a tooth of unwanted bacteria before a filling is attached. For this to take place, the area must be anesthetized, and the process can be arduous. With a hard tissue drill, there is no pain and therefore no need for anesthesia. The process is easier, faster, and more accurate.

Overly Sensitive Teeth. On the root of sensitive teeth there can be found open tubules, which cause the unwanted sensation. By using a hard tissue laser, a dentist can seal these holes and strengthen the teeth.

A Clear Case for Lasers

So how do you know if you are a candidate for laser treatments? You can find out by visiting us at Carolina’s Dental Choice for a consultation. But there are a few signs you can detect yourself:

Do you have excess gums hanging over your teeth? A lot of people believe this is something they must live with, and therefore never question a possible reshaping. But now, due to the use of soft tissue lasers, these overlapping gums can be greatly reduced to make your smile more confident.

Have you detected a possible cavity in your mouth? Maybe you have even been told you have one and need to get it taken care of, but you keep putting it off due to the pain involved. But now that you know a drill does not have to be used, and that a hard tissue laser can remove the cavity with virtually no pain, what are you waiting on?

Come See Us!

Dental Laser, Laser Shaping Gums, Carolinas Dental Choice, Dentistry NC, Monroe NC, Teeth Shaping

Whether or not you are sold on having a laser used on your teeth or gums, we can take care of all your dental needs. Call or visit us today to make an appointment. It’s time to be confident in your smile, and we can help.

-Andrae Bergeron

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What You Need to Know About Dental Implants

monroe2020-07-16T17:23:21+00:00May 12th, 2017|Dental Implants|

Dental implants, crowns, veneers, dentures, bridges, bonding! That’s a lot of dental terms. If you aren’t a dental expert all these terms start to run together. So which one is it?

Dental Implants at Carolina’s Dental Choice are your missing tooth’s best friend. If you are missing a tooth dental implants can permanently replace the missing tooth without anyone noticing. The dental implant is a permanent tooth replacement that matches your other teeth. Let’s be honest, missing teeth can be serious and unattractive. They lower a person’s confidence and can turn smiling into a dreaded reaction. Not to mention, missing teeth can make eating a talking difficult. Carolina’s Dental Choice is dedicated to helping patients feel confident in their smile!

What Are Dental Implants

Dental implants are tooth replacements that are permanently installed in the jaw. Metal post or frames are surgically placed underneath the gums and into the jawbone. An artificial tooth is then placed on top for a natural looking tooth. Having the implant surgically placed into the jawbone allows for stable support for the replacement took. With this stability, the tooth not only looks real it can also function like a real tooth. This makes it easier to eat and speak with ease.

Why Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a timely procedure but the outcome is well worth the effort. Dental Implants last for a very long time and require very little maintenance. The dental implant is a very stable tooth replacement and helps with many things including improving:

Your smile and overall appearance
Your ability to speak comprehensively
Your overall comfort
Your ability to chew foods
Overall oral health

Type of Implants

Subperiosteal Implants- With this type of implant, metal frames are fused into the gum tissue. Overtime the gums heal and allow the frames to become secured to the jawbone. The post that are supporting the frames overhang through the gums. After the jawbone and gum tissue has healed, an artificial tooth is locked to the post.

Endosteal Implants- This form of implant is surgically implanted straight on the jawbone. After the jaw and gums are healed, a second surgery takes place to attach a post to the original implant. After all of the gum tissue has healed, an artificial tooth is secured to the post. This method is also used for bridges and dentures that are supported with implants.

Schedule an Appointment

At the initial appointment your Carolina’s Dental Choice Dentist will exam your teeth. Along with discussing the procedure, your dental history will be reviewed, x-rays will be taken, and your teeth will be thoroughly examined. You will have the opportunity to discuss your options for implants to determine if you are a good candidate. This will get you acquainted to the different procedures and help you and your doctor decided which option is the best fit for you.

First Procedure

For Endosteal Implants the first surgery will take place. The implants will be placed into the jawbone. This is done by making an incision in the gum and inclosing the implant. A small hole is drilled in to the bone for the implant to attach and then is stitched up. After the implants are secured it is important to allow your jaw to heal. The dentist will wait three to six month to plan the next step.

Second Procedure

Next for Endosteal Implants the dentist will take x-rays, to ensure the implants have fused with the jawbone. If all is well, the second surgery will proceed. This surgery is a simple and easy procedure. A small incision is made to show the top of the implant. Once the top of the implants is clear, a healing cap is placed on them, this helps the gum tissue during the healing process. After about two weeks the healing caps will be replaced and the artificial implant can be secured.

How to Take Care of the Implants?

The great thing about dental implants is that they require very little patience and if they are taken care of, implants will never have to be replaced. The upkeep of implants is very easy and requires very little of your time. Steps to keeping your implants successful include:

Brushing and Flossing Daily– Duhhh! You already know this one! But just a reminder that it is good oral hygiene to brush your teeth twice a day and floss every evening.

Routine Dental Visits– It is important to make visiting your dentist a routine. This can help keep your implants in the very peak condition. Having a dental exam and cleaning every six months is a good habit.

Not Smoke– Smoking has been known to weaken the tooth and bone structure. If the jawbone become too weak it can lead to implant failure.

Avoid Hard Foods– Foods such as ice and hard candy can be very harmful even to your natural teeth. To protect your implant and your natural teeth avoid chewing on hard foods.

Schedule an appointment at Carolina’s Dental Choice to help you decide if you are a good candidate for dental implants and go over all of your options. You will have a smile to be proud of in no time!

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