Grand Dentistry

Yes Charles you can and that would be a good thing to do.

Stress may be a contributing factor to headaches and tooth grinding but it’s not the only cause. Your symptoms can be the result of the way that your teeth line up with your jaw line, so that some teeth are pounded harder than others when you chew or speak. Another possible cause is sleep apnea. People who do not get enough oxygen while sleeping often grind their teeth. We can screen you for sleep apnea at no charge to see if further testing is warranted. .In either case a precision appliance worn at night may be indicated.

If your dental plan allows you to freely choose your dentist, we will accept insurance payments toward your fee. We have a person in our office dedicated to helping our patients file insurance claims and work out any problems with insurance carriers. However, we do not participate with any dental capitation plans such as dental HMOs. We feel that the quality of dentistry that we could provide under such plans would be substandard.

Tooth Whitening is a cost effective and safe procedure to create a beautiful, healthy white smile. Over the years, fluoride has been added to the whitening product. This will ultimately reduce the risk of tooth and gum sensitivity. Tooth Whitening must be monitored by your Dentist and only done after you have a comprehensive exam by our Doctor and a full checkup with one of our Dental Hygienists. The whitening process can last for a number of years if maintained properly. Beverages such as coffee, tea, dark sodas and red wine will reduce the lasting effect. Remember, if it could stain a white shirt, it will stain your smile!

We recommend that children, teens, and adults should all see the dentist for a dental exam and a regular checkup at least once every six months. Patients who are at a greater risk for oral cancer or gum disease may be required to see the dentist more than just twice a year. Regular dental exams and cleaning visits are essential in preventing dental problems and maintaining a beautiful healthy smile. Our doctor will help determine how often you should visit the dentist for regular checkups.

About half of women who are pregnant experience a condition called pregnancy gingivitis. This condition can be uncomfortable and cause swelling, bleeding, redness or tenderness in the gum tissue. A more advanced oral health condition called periodontal disease (a serious gum infection that destroys attachment fibers and supporting bone that hold teeth in the mouth) may affect the health of your baby. Studies have shown a relationship between periodontal disease and preterm, low birth-weight babies. In fact, pregnant women with periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that’s born too early and too small. The likely culprit is a labor-inducing chemical found in oral bacteria called prostaglandin. Very high levels of prostaglandin are found in women with severe cases of periodontal disease.

Research today suggests a link between gum disease and diabetes. Research has established that people with diabetes are more prone to gum disease. If blood glucose levels are poorly controlled you may be more likely to develop gum disease and could potentially lose teeth. Like all infections, gum disease can be a factor in causing blood sugar levels to rise and make diabetes harder to control. Be sure to see your dentist regularly for check-ups and follow home care recommendations. Diabetes can also influence your ability to heal after dental surgery such as implant placement or grafting. Please keep up informed of changes in medications.

Like other investments, if you whiten your teeth, the length of time you can expect it to last will vary. If you smoke, drink red wine or coffee, or consume other acid-containing foods, your bright smile may begin to yellow more quickly than you expect. In general, a teeth whitening procedure can last up to a few years. And even though the results can fade, occasional touch-ups can be done to regain luster.

Like other investments, if you whiten your teeth, the length of time you can expect it to last will vary. If you smoke, drink red wine or coffee, or consume other acid-containing foods, your bright smile may begin to yellow more quickly than you expect. In general, a teeth whitening procedure can last up to a few years. And even though the results can fade, occasional touch-ups can be done to regain luster.

Periodontal disease is inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting bone structure, which if left untreated, can cause permanent jaw bone destruction and possible tooth loss. Untreated periodontal disease has been linked to increased risk for conditions such as heart disease, stroke, low birth weight babies, pre-term delivery, respiratory disease, and prostate cancer. An advanced stage of periodontal disease exhibits inflamed gums pulling away from your bone and teeth. Other signs of periodontal disease include:

Sensitivity toothpaste, which contains strontium chloride or potassium nitrate are very effective in treating sensitive teeth. After a few weeks of use, you may notice a decrease in sensitivity. Highly acidic foods such as oranges, grapefruits and lemons, as well as tea and soda can increase tooth sensitivity, and work against sensitivity toothpaste. If you do not get relief by brushing gently and using desensitizing toothpaste, as us about it. There are special compounds that can be applied in-office to the roots of your tooth to reduce – if not eliminate – the sensitivity. High-fluoride containing home care products can also be recommended to help reduce tooth sensitivity.

A cavity is a small hole that forms inside the tooth because of tooth decay. Cavities are formed when bacterial plaque buildup on the outside of the tooth combines with sugars and starches in the food you eat. This produces an acid that can eat away the enamel on your tooth. If a cavity is left untreated, it can lead to more serious oral health problems. Cavities can be prevented by remembering to brush your teeth at least two times a day and floss between teeth at least once.