The Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants are a great option for individuals who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, failed root canal therapy, extreme tooth decay, and periodontal disease. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, approximately 69% of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth, while 26 % of adults will have lost all of their permanent teeth by age 74. Read on for more information on the advantages of dental implants.

Permanent Solution to Tooth Loss

Unlike dentures and removable bridges, dental implants give patients a permanent solution to tooth loss. Titanium implants are surgically placed within the jawbone; upon this titanium root, a natural-looking replacement tooth is affixed. Surgical placement allows the dental implant to fuse to the jawbone itself in a process known as osseointegration, providing unparalleled stability and reducing the need for future restorations.

Reduced Risk of Bone Loss

Dentures and bridges sit along the gum line rather than extend into the jawbone, causing them to move or slide along the gums, increasing the risk of jawbone erosion and weakening. Dental implants, on the other hand, stimulate the jawbone just as your natural teeth would in order to maintain the integrity of your jawbone and facial structures. Furthermore, dental implants do not rely on any preexisting neighboring teeth for support.

Natural-Looking Results

Dental implants are designed to look and function just like your natural teeth. In fact, many patients find their dental implants are stronger than their own teeth and can last a lifetime when properly cared for.

The best way to determine if you are an ideal candidate for dental implants is to set up a consultation with your dentist. Restore your smile by contacting Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S at (800) 223-0801 or visiting us online.

The Truth Behind Root Canal Myths

There are many myths surrounding the root canal procedure, including the myth that the procedure is painful and traumatic. Unfortunately, many people forgo needed treatment because of the bad reputation root canals have. But if you ask your dentist about the facts, you might be surprised by the truth about root canals. Below are a few root canal myths, debunked.

Myth: A Root Canal Will Take a Long Time

Fact: Barring complications, a root canal can take less than two hours. Modern technology has enabled dentists to work quickly and efficiently, minimizing the amount of time you spend in the dentist’s chair. After the procedure is done, you may need to go back to the dentist for a checkup to ensure that there is no infection, but the root canal itself is a one-visit procedure.  We will often refer patients to an endodontist, a dentist who specializes in root canals.  They have special training and equipment to make the experience as quick and pain-free as possible.

Myth: Root Canals are Painful

Fact: Root canals are done to ease tooth pain. Swelling and pain are sometimes the result of nerve damage in a tooth, and the root canal procedure works to ease those symptoms by clearing out the infected tissue. With the use of modern anesthesia and medication after the procedure to minimize tenderness, a root canal can be no more painful than getting a filling.

Myth: A Root Canal will Kill the Tooth, so I’m Better Off Just Getting It Pulled

Fact: Root canals are intended to save the tooth, not remove it. Root canals clean and disinfect the tooth, leaving the structure of the tooth intact and therefore preserving the smile. Having a tooth pulled, however, can cause other teeth to shift and can lead to more dental problems later on.

Myth: My Teeth Don’t Hurt, so I Don’t Need a Root Canal

Fact: You do not always feel the pain of an infected tooth. During a routine checkup, your dentist will examine your teeth and take x-rays. If he or she sees signs of decay or infection, then your dentist will examine the tooth closer and tell for sure whether or not you need a root canal. An undetected infection could cause serious damage if left untreated, as well as generally leaving you not feeling well.  

Whether you are in need of a routine checkup or have a painful, inflamed tooth that needs immediate attention, we can help. Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S.offers regular dental care, cosmetic dentistry services, and advanced procedures.  To learn more or schedule an appointment, call us at (800) 223-0801.

Happy New Year!

Happy 2014 From Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. and Staff!

Don’t forget about your teeth this festive season!

As the year draws to a close, our bodies are likely to be faced with a battering of bad foods and drinks. As we indulge in fatty and sugary foods, our intake of alcohol goes up and late nights become the norm in the lead up to the New Year, we need not forget about the health of our bodies. While many of us can see the obvious effects of festive season over-indulgence in the form of weight gain and a generally tired appearance, there’s one part of our bodies that we rarely give a second thought to – our teeth.

At this busy time of year, where routine goes out the window, who has time to think about our oral hygiene routine? Well, maybe you should.

Not only could you be paying the price come January, but at the time of the year when we’re likely to be getting up close and personal in the form of hugs, dancing with friends and family, and kisses under the mistletoe, many of us could be putting people off without a second thought.

In a recent survey by Wrigleys (the makers of chewing gums like Extra) over 70 per cent of people say bad teeth or bad breath would be their biggest turnoff if they were to kiss someone at midnight on New Year’s or at a holiday party, with over a quarter ranking fresh breath at the most important factor when preparing for the seasons parties.

So how can you make sure your breath is fresh and our teeth and oral care is in top form ready for the festive season?

Regular brushing, flossing and mouth washing will minimize buildup of acid-producing plaque which not only causes bad breath, but also damage to your pearly whites. Dentists also encourage regularly chewing of sugar-free gum after meals (such as Extra), to increase the production of acid-buffering saliva, to neutralize the oral environment. This however is NOT a substitute for tooth brushing.

On behalf of the team at Alina Bergan D.D.S, we wish you and your family a happy and blessed New Year!

Who Is a Good Candidate for Veneers?

Are you looking for a way to give your smile a makeover? If so, speak with your dentist about the benefits of veneers. Veneers are made from porcelain or a composite material, and are fitted over the surfaces of the teeth, correcting minor flaws and discoloration. To learn who is a good candidate for this cosmetic dentistry procedure, keep reading:

Those with healthy gums:

Before getting veneers, you will want to ensure that your gums are healthy and that you are not suffering from gum disease. Since gum disease can cause tooth loss and other damage to the teeth and gums, veneers are not a good option for those with mild to severe gum disease.

Those with only minor tooth decay:

If you have major tooth decay or tooth loss, veneers may not be your best cosmetic option. Because the surface of the tooth must be removed prior to placing the veneer, it is essential that your teeth are strong and healthy.  Furthermore, severe tooth decay can affect one’s bite, which can then affect the longevity and effectiveness of the veneers.

Those with minor cosmetic issues:

Veneers cannot correct for severely crooked teeth. They can, however, address gaps between the teeth, discoloration to the enamel, and minor cracks and chips. If you have minor cosmetic issues that you want to address, then veneers may be your best option, providing the white, straight smile you’ve been looking for.

With just two sessions—one to mold the veneers and another to attach—and little to no pain, dental professionals can give you custom-made, natural-looking veneers that give you the smile you always wanted.

If you’re in the 5 Towns area and would like to learn more about veneers or other cosmetic dental options, check out Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S..Visit us online or call us at (800) 223-0801for more information or to schedule an appointment.

What Is TMJ Disorder and How Is It Treated?

Have you been experiencing severe jaw pain while chewing or simply opening your mouth? Your dental pain could be indicative of temporal-mandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Review the following information and schedule a consultation with your family dentist to learn more:

Diagnosing the Disorder

In order to begin treatment for TMJ disorder, your family dentist must formally diagnose you with this disorder. If your jaw pain has become unbearable, schedule an appointment with your dentist. You may also discuss your jaw pain and potential TMJ disorder symptoms during your routine dental examinations.

Identifying TMJ Disorder Symptoms

Before your dentist appointment, pay close attention to your symptoms. Common symptoms of TMJ disorder include headaches, earaches, and general soreness. Make sure you notify your family dentist if you experience increasing difficulty with simple jaw-related tasks, such as opening and closing your mouth. Sudden jaw pain or clicking of your jaw may also indicate that you have TMJ disorder.

Seeking Treatment

While your TMJ disorder symptoms may be uncomfortable, there are effective ways to manage your symptoms and reduce your pain. For example, oftentimes, TMJ disorder is a result of a misaligned bite. By replacing missing teeth, straightening teeth, and filling in spaces between your teeth, your dentist can help to correct bite problems, helping to relieve your symptoms. Other TMJ disorder treatment options include a mouth piece to reduce grinding and jaw clenching and in severe cases, surgery.

At Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S, we pursue non-surgical TMJ disorder solutions to avoid the costs and recovery of corrective surgery. Jaw pain is a serious dental symptom that should be addressed immediately. Don’t endure your TMJ disorder symptoms for another day—schedule an appointment with us by calling (800) 223-0801.

Enhance Your Smile at Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S.!

A variety of corrective and cosmetic dentistry procedures are currently available to enhance your smile. Read the articles below for more information on whitening your teeth and treating TMJ disorder. For more information, speak with the expert family dentist at Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. by calling (800) 223-0801.

·         Learn about revolutionary Zoom! teeth whitening treatments on Zoom’s official website.

·         Before your teeth whitening treatment at Lake Grove Dental, find out what to expect by reading this Oral B article.

·         Look for these TMJ disorder symptoms to find out if your jaw pain could be caused by this disorder.

·         If your dentist has recently diagnosed you with TMJ disorder, review this National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research article to learn about this dental condition.

·         This guide from AAOMS.org can help you understand more about TMJ disorder.