Blog Archives - Page 5 of 6 - Limestone Dental Associates

Posted on March 23, 2017August 10, 2018 by Matt Baran

Wisdom teeth are often first seen on x-rays conducted during regular appointments at our Wilmington dental office.

Most often, we can see them as they’re beginning to erupt through the gums. It’s also when we’re most likely to recommend that they are removed. In fact, about 90% of Americans get their wisdom teeth taken out. But why can’t they just stay there?

“It’s Crowded in Here!”

The #1 reason wisdom teeth need to be removed is that there isn’t enough room in your mouth for these four back molars, or “third molars,” to fit. We can typically tell if this will be a factor from your x-rays. This is one reason regular visits to your dentist in Wilmington are so important. If your wisdom teeth erupt and there’s no room in your mouth, they can become “stuck” in your bone. When this happens, your wisdom teeth are referred to as being impacted. Surgery to extract impacted wisdom teeth can be more complicated, so it’s best if we avoid it by catching any potential problems and removing the teeth early.

Bacteria Love Them

If your wisdom teeth do fully erupt and don’t appear to be causing any problems, meaning there are no overcrowding, pain, or changes in the function of your bite, they may still need to come out. Why? Wisdom teeth are hard to brush and floss properly, which puts you at increased risk for cavities and gum disease. If any potential problem is lurking in the dark corners of your wisdom teeth, extraction may be recommended in order to keep your smile healthy.

When to Leave Them Alone

It’s rare, but sometimes wisdom teeth grow in just fine and there’s no reason to have them removed. If your wisdom teeth are healthy, positioned so as to not inhibit proper bite or neighboring teeth, and are able to be cleaned properly, it may be best to leave them alone. Additionally, some people may never have to worry about whether to leave their wisdom teeth or get them removed because sometimes, the teeth just aren’t there.

Regular visits to our dental office in Wilmington help get and keep your mouth healthy and can also catch any potential problems with your wisdom teeth before they arise. If your wisdom teeth are already causing pain, or removal wasn’t recommended in time before they erupted, call to schedule your appointment today. We’ll make sure to recommend the best option for you and your wise molars.

Serving patients in Wilmington, Pike Creek, Hockessin and the surrounding areas.

Posted on March 13, 2017August 9, 2018 by Matt Baran

Having sensitive teeth can be brutal.

The sharp, shooting pain that often accompanies tooth sensitivity can put a damper on enjoying favorite foods. At our dental office in Wilmington, we don’t want any of our patients to suffer from sensitive teeth, but we understand that a lot of them do. We’d like to explain some of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity and talk about some possible remedies.

Eating Acidic Foods

Certain foods can directly affect oral health. We all know that sugary foods can eat away at tooth enamel and lead to cavities, but acidic foods can also cause some dental problems. A diet packed with acidic treats like citrus fruit, tomato sauce, and wine also causes enamel erosion and weakened teeth. Once the middle part of the tooth known as the dentin becomes exposed, teeth can become painfully sensitive.

Too Much Brushing

That’s right, your dentist in Wilmington just said there’s such a thing as too much brushing. While we encourage our patients to brush, we don’t want them to cause damage by doing it. Damage from over-brushing can be caused by either doing it too often or using a rough, scrubbing technique. You should use a soft-bristled toothbrush two times a day in soft, gentle circles to protect your grin against sensitivity.

Not Enough Flossing

We typically recommend flossing about once a day, every day, and for good reason. If you only brush your teeth, you’re not cleaning two sides of each tooth which can lead to plaque buildup. Plaque that’s not removed by regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings can damage enamel and leave teeth feeling a bit sensitive.

Tooth Grinding

Grinding tooth against tooth is a great way to not only cause chips and breaks that will require restorative dentistry to fix, it’s also a top contributor of sensitivity. Grinding files down the enamel which, as we know, leaves the inside of the tooth exposed. Usually a bruxism mouthguard can be custom fitted to prevent grinding and damage that comes with it.

If you’re experiencing the pain associated with having sensitive teeth, you don’t need to continue to suffer. Call our Wilmington dental office to schedule an appointment and get relief.

Accepting patients from Wilmington, Pike Creek, Hockessin and beyond.

Posted on February 27, 2017August 9, 2018 by Matt Baran

Cheek biting is a common habit and is actually very similar to nail biting.

Typically brought on by stress or when nervous, biting the inside of the cheek — or the lips or tongue — can be painful, and in certain cases, concerning for the dental team at our Wilmington dental office. We’re here to explain why and offer up some of the best ways to stop.

Identify the Cause

Before we discuss why biting any of the tissues in your mouth is bad for you, we should identify why it happens in the first place. If you catch your cheek in between your teeth while chewing and talking only on occasion, there’s probably nothing to be too concerned about. However, if this happens to you chronically, or if you nibble on your cheek constantly throughout the day, there may be reason for concern.

Why Is It Bad?

First, any continued trauma to oral tissues can result in painful mouth sores which can become infected. Infection in the mouth is never a good thing and can actually be quite serious. Second, if you bite yourself quite often while eating, you may suffer from a misaligned bite (malocclusion). Malocclusion can lead to more serious problems like chronic headaches, a sore jaw, TMJ (temporomandibular disorder), and shifting of teeth. When your teeth don’t fit together neatly, there’s a greater chance of your cheek, lip, or tongue finding its way in between them causing you to crunch down on it (Ouch!).

Ways to Stop

No matter what the cause may be behind biting your cheeks, there are a few tips you can try to help stop it.

Figure out when you do it. If your lip or cheek biting is a result of stress or nerves as opposed to a bad bite, start paying attention to when you’re doing it and work to either avoid those triggers or work to consciously stop yourself.
Find a support system. Sometimes, you may not realize you’re biting so often. Talk with trusted friends or coworkers about trying to stop the habit and ask them to help you identify when you do it.
Do something! Another common reason behind biting is boredom. If you find yourself nibbling away while watching TV, get up, get active, and do something!
See your dentist. If you believe your bite may be contributing to your chronic biting, talk with your dentist in Wilmington for advice on how to help.

If you suffer from chronically biting your cheeks, lip, or tongue, schedule an appointment at our dental office in Wilmington. We’ll check any active sores you have for infection and help treat them if necessary, and work with you to determine not only what’s causing you to bite so often, but also the best ways to help you stop.

Accepting patients from Wilmington, Pike Creek, Hockessin and beyond.

Posted on February 16, 2017August 9, 2018 by Matt Baran

It’s probably no surprise that the team members at our dental office in Wilmington aren’t big fans of sugar.

Too much of the sweet stuff can seriously compromise your oral health, and we’d rather see your pearly whites happy and healthy. That’s one reason why we encourage all of our patients to reduce the amount of sugar in their diets. But that’s not the only reason we’re supplying tips on how to consume less of it.

Sugar Can Be a Whole-Body Problem

Everyone knows that sugar is bad for teeth because it increases the risk for decay and cavities. But did you know that too much sugar can cause serious problems in the rest of the body too? An overconsumption of sugar can:

Contribute to severe headaches
Lead to overeating and obesity
Cause Type 2 diabetes
And be a factor in developing cardiovascular disease

Should You Eliminate Sugar Altogether?

Having a certain amount of sugar in your diet is necessary for proper body function. But how much is too much? The recommended amount of sugar someone should have on a daily basis depends on age and gender. The American Heart Association suggests a maximum daily sugar intake of 37.5 grams for men and 25 grams for women.

Sugar Reduction Tips

Cut back on the sweets. Cookies, candy, and soda are some of the biggest, most obvious sugar-packed culprits. Choose water and naturally sweet foods like fruit instead.
Read nutrition facts. Sometimes sugar can hide in some surprising foods like bread, condiments, and even sauces. If you don’t read the label, you may be unaware of just how much sugar you’re eating.
Brush up on your chef skills. Making your own meals at home allows you to control what ingredients you use and in what quantity. Home cooked meals can help your family eat healthier overall.

Following these tips can really help limit the amount of sugar you consume and do wonders to keep your smile, and your body healthy. Remember, it’s still crucial to brush your teeth every day, twice a day, floss once a day, and maintain regular visits with your Wilmington dentist.

If you do notice any signs of potential decay, or if it’s time for your dental cleaning, give our Wilmington dental office a call to schedule an appointment. We’re always happy to see new smiling faces!

Treating patients from Wilmington, Pike Creek, Hockessin and beyond.

Posted on January 24, 2017August 9, 2018 by Matt Baran

At our dental office in Wilmington, we’re in the business of helping each one of our patients get and keep a beautiful, healthy smile.

We’ll even often give advice on what you can do at home to protect your dental health. But humans aren’t the only ones that can benefit from at-home dental care. Just like people, pets also rely on good oral health for overall wellness. To achieve this, follow our pet-friendly tips.

Choose the right tools

An important part of your pet’s dental care is similar to your own. We’re talking about brushing teeth. And just like we recommend you choose a toothbrush that’s right for you, you need to choose a brush that’s appropriate for your pet. There are toothbrushes designed just for dogs and cats and can be found at many pet stores. But a clean piece of gauze wrapped around a finger will work pretty well too. When it comes to which toothpaste to use, don’t use your own. Human toothpaste can cause stomach problems in animals. Instead, ask your vet for a recommendation.

Use the right technique

The technique behind brushing your animal’s teeth is not unlike brushing your own. Hold the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle and gently massage in a small circular motion. You may want to focus more attention on the cheek side of the teeth as that’s where the most tartar tends to accumulate. You don’t need to brush your pet’s teeth as often as you brush you own, however. Two or three times a week is typically standard.

Stay Aware

Animals can get gum disease too, and you should know the signs that something may not be right. Keep an eye out for:

Bad breath
Excessive drooling
Swollen gums
Loose teeth

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your vet.

While we can’t help keep your pet’s smile in top shape, following the tips above and visiting your vet regularly can do wonders in ensuring your furry loved ones are healthy. When it comes to your pearly whites, we’ll be more than happy to see you at our Wilmington dental office. Call today to schedule an appointment.

Welcoming (human) patients from Wilmington, Pike Creek, Hockessin and beyond.

Posted on January 16, 2017August 9, 2018 by Matt Baran

As you probably already know, there are several types of mouthwash available — some minty, some a bit fruity, some that claim to kill germs, and some that protect against gum disease and gingivitis.

But do we really need so many? At our dental office in Wilmington, we know choosing a mouthwash can be overwhelming, which is why we’d like to explain the differences between them so you can pick the right one for you.

Problem: Bad Breath & Oral Infection

Solution: Antiseptic Mouthwash

Antiseptic mouthwash is the most recommended choice for those battling bad breath or fighting off an infection. These types of mouthwashes contain chlorhexidine gluconate, which is incredibly effective at killing dangerous bacteria and bad breath. However, if antiseptic mouthwash is overused, the teeth may become discolored.

Problem: Not Enough Fluoride

Solution: Fluoride Mouthwash

While most people receive a sufficient amount of fluoride through their tap water or toothpaste, some individuals can benefit from an additional supply. This is when a fluoride mouthwash may be recommended. Fluoride mouthwash can help make teeth stronger and protect them from decay. It’s definitely not appropriate for everyone, especially those under six, but your dentist in Wilmington will be able to help determine if it’s right for you.

Problem: Just a Bit of Bad Breath

Solution: Cosmetic Mouthwash

Similarly to antiseptic mouthwash, cosmetic mouthwashes can help freshen breath. What makes them different, however, is they really don’t help protect teeth or fight off bacteria. If used in addition to brushing, a cosmetic mouthwash can be effective at giving you a burst of freshness, but that’s about it.

Mouthwash Alone Isn’t Enough

Even if you choose the mouthwash that helps your specific dental concerns, swishing with it once or twice a day isn’t enough. In order to really help your mouth get and stay healthy, mouthwash should only be used as an additional step in your oral hygiene routine. Keep brushing twice a day, maintain flossing at least once a day, and don’t forego checkups with your dentist in Wilmington.

Still have questions about which mouthwash is right for you? Schedule an appointment at our Wilmington dental office. We’ll be happy to help.

Welcoming new patients in Wilmington, Pike Creek, Hockessin and the surrounding areas.

Posted on December 22, 2016August 9, 2018 by Matt Baran

Baking soda is a common item found in many households and has a variety of uses besides its obvious purpose — baking food.

People use it to keep smells in the fridge at bay, to minimize pet odor, and even to clean carpets and clothes. For many years, baking soda has also been used to whiten teeth. But does it actually work, is it safe, and should you do it? Our dental office in Wilmington has the answers.

Does it Work?

Let’s start with the question everyone wants to know the answer to: does baking soda actually whiten teeth? Good news, it does! Baking soda has a natural, mild abrasive texture that can scrub away surface stains and allow teeth to become a purer white. Mix equal parts baking soda with water, apply to a toothbrush, brush normally and voila!, you have a brighter, whiter smile.

Does it Always Work?

While baking soda can help remove minor discoloration and staining, it’s not incredibly effective at erasing deeper stains. Some people who try to get a whiter smile through the use of baking soda are unhappy with the results. If this happens, there are several alternatives available. In-office professional whitening treatments can whiten your smile by several shades, and at-home kits provide a convenient option. If neither one of those options work, veneers or other forms of cosmetic dentistry may be the answer. Talk with your dentist in Wilmington to determine which solution is best for you.

There Are Disadvantages

Baking soda may be an attractive tooth whitening treatment to many — it’s cheap, it’s natural, and it’s easy. But there are some precautions you should take into consideration before jumping into a baking soda tooth whitening routine. First and foremost, brushing with baking soda can cause damage to the tooth enamel if you brush too hard. This could result in increased sensitivity and a greater risk for decay. Additionally, if used with braces or on teeth that have dental restorations, there is a chance the baking soda can weaken the adhesive. Due to its abrasive nature, baking soda users often complain of gum discomfort as well.

If you’re looking to get a whiter smile and want to explore your options, give our Wilmington dental office a call to schedule an appointment today. We’ll review the type of staining you have, what shade of white you’d like to achieve, the best way to get you a bright, white smile that you’ll be proud to show off.

Welcoming patients from Wilmington, Pike Creek, Hockessin and the surrounding areas.

Posted on December 16, 2016August 9, 2018 by Matt Baran

Your smile can say a lot of things about you-you’re happy, you’re confident, you’re professional, you’re… old?

Nobody wants people to think that, but the unfortunate truth is, your smile may be aging you in the eyes of others. At our dental office in Wilmington, we hear many patients express concern over the appearance of their teeth and how some aspects of their smile make them look older than they really are. But thanks to modern dentistry, there are several treatments available to remedy any dental concern.

Concern #1: “My teeth aren’t as white as they used to be.”

Everyone wants a bright, white smile. But sometimes lifestyle factors like smoking, beverage choices like coffee and red wine, or old, metal dental work can keep someone from having pearly whites that are, well, pearly white. No matter what the reason is behind the discoloration, there’s a solution. Treatment options include:

In-office whitening
Veneers
Replacing metal restorations with tooth-colored alternatives

Concern #2: “My teeth look longer and it makes me self-conscious”

Teeth that are longer in appearance are usually a result of gum recession. Gum recession is typically a result of brushing too hard, gum disease or grinding and clenching. When the gums recede, parts of the teeth that are usually hidden under the gum line become visible, causing them to look longer, and, in turn, the person looks older. Some common solutions from your Wilmington dentist may include:

Changes in brushing behavior — small, gentle circles are best
Scaling and root planing
Gum grafting

Concern #3: “I’m experiencing more chips and cracks. What’s going on?”

As we age, our tooth enamel is constantly exposed to different elements and can become weakened. When this happens, the teeth are more susceptible to damage like chips and cracks. But don’t worry, advancements in dental technology allow for virtually undetectable restorations like:

If you’re concerned that your smile may be aging you, give our Wilmington dental office a call to schedule an appointment today. We’ll identify your specific areas of concern and determine the most appropriate solution for you.

Accepting patients from Wilmington, Pike Creek, Hockessin

Posted on November 23, 2016August 8, 2018 by Matt Baran

At our Wilmington dental office, one of the first things we do when meeting new patients is to go over a complete health history.

What are we looking for? Things like diabetes, heart disease, etc. Why? Because they can sometimes cause specific symptoms that affect not just your overall health, but your oral health too. Diabetes, in particular, can lead to an increased risk of periodontal (gum) disease. Here are some frequently asked questions we get about diabetes and how it affects our oral health.

“What Should I Share With My Dentist About My Diabetes?”

We love getting to know our patients in order to better understand how we can help their smile be healthy and last a lifetime.

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important to share these things:

Any changes in your prescriptions or health
Your results of some of your diabetes blood tests (the A1C or fasting blood glucose)
Your need for antibiotics before and after dental treatment for uncontrolled diabetes

“How Does My Blood Sugar Affect My Oral Health?”

We understand that maintaining your blood glucose levels isn’t always easy. But did you know that keeping these numbers stable also helps oral health too? It helps reduce your risk of losing teeth, gum disease, and other problems. Your Wilmington dentist knows that the presence of gum disease may also play a role in the rise of blood sugar, making diabetes even more difficult to regulate.

“Is Brushing and Flossing Different With Diabetes?”

Keeping up with your regular brushing and flossing routine at home isn’t any different, whether or not you’re living with diabetes. It’s always important to brush twice daily and floss once — no matter what illness you may or may not have. Try using a fluoride toothpaste for added decay defense, and brushing in the morning and at night. Your toothbrush should have soft bristles that work best to clean teeth with soft circular motions.

“What About Diabetes and My Diet?”

Since patients living with diabetes are restricted from consuming sugary foods, this is extremely helpful for teeth too. Always be sure to work with your doctor to find the right kind of dietary plan to suit your needs. We always recommend making plenty of veggies, fruits, and whole grains a part of your diet.

At our dental office in Wilmington, we are always available to answer any questions you may have about diabetes and how it can affect oral health. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or if you ever notice any changes in your mouth or teeth.

Welcoming patients from Wilmington, Pike Creek, Hockessin.

Posted on October 21, 2016August 8, 2018 by Matt Baran

Don’t let your spooky smile fit in with the Halloween decor this month!

Our dental office in Wilmington wants to help you say farewell to a dead or missing tooth thanks to the help of a dental implant… or implants if you’re missing more than one tooth. Implants are durable, natural looking, and can help take your smile from scary to stunning.

Replace Missing Teeth, Permanently!

If a missing tooth or teeth is doing more harm than hurt to your smile, we may be able to help. After all, we want to boost your smile’s natural beauty to give you confidence and comfort. Our Wilmington dental office can help show you how implant dentistry can make a missing or damaged tooth disappear.

How Does The Magic Happen?

First, an implant post constructed of titanium is inserted into the jawbone, helping to mimic the tooth roots and preventing bone loss. Titanium is a transition metal that is both exceptionally durable and very likely to be accepted by the body. Once placed, the post begins to integrate with the bone, creating a super-strong, permanent base. After it’s healed, a custom crown, bridge, or dentures are attached, creating a natural-looking, fully functional smile.

Getting The Bite Right

Dental implants can not only replace a missing tooth permanently and make your smile whole again, they can also help your mouth function properly. Missing teeth or damaged teeth don’t allow for full functionality of your chew forces, which can lead to other problems. When a tooth is not operating to its full capacity, or is missing altogether, other teeth will compensate – which can throw off your entire mouth’s system. Chewing patterns may change and lead to an imbalanced bite that could create even more problems like TMJ (jaw joint) pain.

Your Wilmington dentist knows best what will work for you and your teeth. It’s important that you address any oral health problems promptly to avoid even more issues in the future. Don’t hesitate to ask us about how implants may be the right solution to restore your smile to health and beauty.

Accepting new patients from Wilmington, Pike Creek, and Hockessin.

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