You’re missing a tooth and wonder about your options. You could:

• Ignore it and hope a new tooth grows
• Live without the tooth
• Wait months for a dental implant
• Get a dental bridge

As you probably already know, a new tooth won’t grow in its place, and living without it isn’t a great choice. While dental implants are good options, they take time. Therefore, you might turn to a bridge.

If so, you’ll want to learn about the dental bridge procedure before going through it. This procedure is commonly used to replace missing teeth. Here is a breakdown of what to expect with a dental bridge procedure.

The Basic Components of a Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is a device dentists use to replace missing teeth. They consist of several parts and require two or more visits to complete. People opt for them not just for a perfect smile, but also for oral health reasons.

The first component of a dental bridge is the pontics. These are the artificial teeth that will “bridge” the gap. They fill in the missing teeth.

The next component is dental crowns. Dental crowns are artificial teeth that cover your natural teeth. They help support the pontics on the bridge.

Finally, a bridge requires abutments. These are parts holding the bridge together and providing the support it needs.

There are several types of bridges, but your dentist will determine the right type for your situation. A bridge can hold one artificial tooth or multiple teeth, depending on the situation. 

The Beneficial Reasons to Replace a Missing Tooth

Your oral health matters, as it affects your looks, your ability to eat and speak, and your general health. As a result, every tooth matters.

Losing a permanent tooth can affect the way you look and feel about yourself. You might smile less often or smile with your lips locked together. A gap in your mouth can make you feel self-conscious or embarrassed.

Each tooth also plays a role in how you speak. Your tongue relies on your tooth to enunciate sounds, and if one is missing, you might experience trouble speaking clearly.

You also use your teeth for chewing. Without them, chewing and eating the foods you enjoy might be difficult.

A missing tooth also has deeper consequences. Using your teeth stimulates the jawbone below or above the teeth. This process keeps the jawbone dense and strong.

When a tooth is absent, the jawbone suffers. Without a tooth there to stimulate the bone, it gradually wears away. This can cause several issues, including affecting the shape of your face.

If left unaddressed for too long, you may need a full-mouth reconstruction if you want to fix your teeth. These procedures, performed by an oral surgeon, can be intense.

It’s better to replace a missing tooth immediately after it’s lost. You might lose a tooth due to trauma, decay, or another reason, but there are always options for replacing teeth.

One additional purpose of teeth is to hold the others in place. Once a tooth is gone, the other teeth may shift out of place. Unfortunately, this can be detrimental to anyone who has had braces at some point. 

How the Dental Bridge Procedure Works

The dental bridge process requires multiple steps and begins with an evaluation. You must meet with a dentist to determine whether this option is feasible. If so, your dentist will explain the process and how to proceed.

First Visit

The dentist may use the first appointment to prepare your teeth for the bridge and create a plan. This visit generally requires four steps. 

First, the dentist will offer local anesthesia to numb the area. This is the same anesthesia dentists use for repairing tooth decay and extracting teeth. 

Next, the dentist will work on the teeth next to the gap. They call these the abutment teeth, as the dentist uses them to hold the bridge in place.

Dentists prepare this by removing the outer portions to make room for the crowns. This step is essential for the crowns to have room to fit over these teeth.

After doing this, the dentist will begin making impressions. This step is crucial for the dental bridge process. They will use these impressions to create the crowns for the abutment teeth and the artificial tooth they’ll hold.

Finally, the dentist will place a temporary bridge with crowns in your mouth. This device protects the teeth while waiting for the permanent crown and prevents the teeth from changing while you wait. 

Second Visit

The second visit takes less time in most cases but can vary. It generally occurs within a few weeks after the first appointment. During this visit, the dentist removes the temporary bridge and installs the permanent one.

If it fits properly, the dentist will bond it in place. If it doesn’t fit properly, the dentist will make any necessary changes before cementing it in place. 

Once cemented, the bridge should stay in place and function like your normal teeth. 

Aftercare for a Dental Bridge

After getting a dental bridge, while your teeth may look perfect, you’ll need to care for your bridge. You can do this in several ways.

First, care for the bridge like you do for your other teeth. This requires brushing, flossing, and visiting a dentist for routine cleanings. 

Secondly, watch what you eat. While a bridge is durable and can last long, eating sticky or hard foods might dislodge it. Avoid eating sticky things for this reason.

Replace Your Missing Tooth With a Dental Bridge

The dental bridge procedure provides a solution for your missing tooth. Dental bridges are durable and look natural. They last long and provide a fully-functioning replacement tooth to fill the gap.

Are you looking for quality dental services in Lexington, KY? Look no further.

Justice Dental offers high-quality dental services from a team of caring dentists. We provide customized services with an emphasis on improving appearance and oral hygiene. 

Contact us to learn more about dental bridges and other restorative dental services!

Quick question: what’s the hardest substance in the human body? Most people guess bones, but the truth is that your tooth enamel takes the prize. At a 5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, tooth enamel is about as hard as steel! That’s why it can be so confusing to see your enamel slowly wearing away. When your pearly whites start turning yellow or brown instead, you may be wondering how this dense substance is disappearing.

Worn-down teeth can happen for several reasons, and they can quickly become a source of sensitivity and discomfort if you aren’t careful. If you suspect premature tooth wear, here are a few things to keep in mind.

What Causes of Worn-Down Teeth?

Worn-down teeth, or “teeth substance loss” (TSL), can happen for several reasons. Depending on the cause, you may lose enamel on the top and/or sides of your teeth.

Tooth Grinding

Tooth grinding is one of the most common causes of TSL. This happens when you grind your teeth against each other. Over time, the chewing surfaces of your teeth begin to wear down.

Teeth grinding can be a side effect of temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD). Other conditions or chronic diseases may increase your risk of grinding.

Sometimes, patients aren’t aware that they’re grinding their teeth. It can happen as an unconscious reaction to stress, for example, or at night while you’re asleep.

Figuring out how to stop grinding teeth can help you prevent future enamel loss.

Enamel Erosion

Dental erosion happens when a substance, often a highly acidic one, wears down your enamel.

This is common with certain foods, drinks, and medications. If you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or suffer from bulimia, your stomach acid may also cause erosion. If you have a health condition or take medications that reduce your saliva, you may be at greater risk of enamel erosion.

Often, patients don’t notice their enamel is beginning to erode. Sensitivity and pain are uncommon until the erosion grows severe.

Tooth Abrasion

Abrasion happens through friction. When an object slides or rubs against the surface of your tooth over and over, the enamel may begin to wear down.

Dental abrasion is common if you use a toothbrush with firm bristles, brush too hard, or use an abrasive toothpaste. Certain habits like chewing toothpicks and pens or holding hairpins between the teeth can also cause abrasion.

How Do You Spot Worn-Down Teeth?

If your enamel has begun to wear away, it might be hard to spot. In the early stages, you won’t see a difference in your smile at all.

Over time, however, the signs will grow more obvious.

When tooth wear affects the chewing surfaces of your teeth, you might notice that these surfaces look yellow or dull. Depending on how much of your enamel has been stripped away, you might have more sensitivity to hot or cold foods.

If there’s severe enamel loss, your teeth may begin to look shorter and shorter over time. The peaks of your teeth (also called “cusps”) may wear down, making your teeth look flatter.

When tooth wear affects the sides of your teeth, you might notice yellower or darker teeth when you smile. If the cause is abrasion, you may even see indentations in your teeth.

When erosion is the cause of your TSL, you’ll likely see damage all over your teeth, though it will be most obvious on their inner sides. Uniform discoloration is more common in these cases.

In the worst-case scenario, you might notice chipped edges or even fractures. This may happen as your enamel wears down severely, weakening the tooth. It’s also more common if you’re grinding your teeth (and thus putting excess force on them).

Can You Reverse Enamel Loss?

Eroded or damaged tooth enamel does not grow back. Because it isn’t a living tissue, your body will never make more of it on its own.

This is why it’s so crucial to catch TSL as early as possible.

Addressing the common causes above and getting preventative treatment can help you avoid nasty side effects like discomfort, sensitivity, and pain. Keeping your enamel healthy can also protect your teeth against future damage and decay.

Most toothpastes, mouthwashes, and other products that claim to address enamel loss will not regrow your enamel, though studies suggest that better treatments may be on the horizon.

Instead, most products help re-mineralize your teeth. By pushing calcium, phosphates, and fluoride into the tooth, they help the surface harden again, strengthening your existing enamel and lowering your risk of future TSL.

Treatment for Worn-Down Teeth

If you can’t regrow your enamel, what can you do? Don’t stress! There are plenty of ways your dentist can help with TSL.

Resin Bonding

When you’re dealing with mild enamel loss, your dentist may recommend resin bonding. With this procedure, they’ll apply a tooth-colored material to your teeth.

This protects the tooth and covers any discoloration or wear. Your dentist can also use resin to reshape the tooth if it has lost volume, chipped, or become malformed.

Porcelain Veneers

When you’re dealing with moderate to severe enamel loss that affects the front of your teeth, your dentist will likely recommend dental veneers, though implants are also an option. Veneers are hard tooth-colored shells that can cover, lengthen, and protect your teeth.

Porcelain Crowns

When your moderate to severe enamel loss has stripped away the chewing surfaces of your teeth, crowns are your best friends. These tooth-colored caps cover the tops of your teeth. They’re great for hiding discoloration and damage, lengthening the teeth, and restoring your smile.

Treat Your Enamel Loss Early

Here’s the bottom line: the best way to treat worn-down teeth is to stop them from getting damaged in the first place! If you’ve noticed signs of TSL, it’s crucial to reach out to a dental expert early. Fast treatment can protect the enamel you have left for a healthier, happier smile.

That’s where we come in! At Justice Dental, our experienced cosmetic dentists are here to help you restore and protect damaged teeth, no matter the issue. Contact us for an appointment at one of our Lexington dental clinics.

You aren’t alone in thinking that your less-than-perfect teeth impact your personal and professional life. About 90% of Americans hold this belief, which is only reinforced by the impact of social media and influencers with seemingly perfect teeth. This insecurity pushes many people to get teeth whitening services.  

Once your teeth are beautifully white, you will want to protect your results. That way, they stay looking white for longer. Follow these tips to protect your newly whitened teeth.

Follow a Strict Cleaning Routine 

Adhering to a strict cleaning routine is paramount in teeth whitening aftercare. A dedicated oral hygiene regimen includes regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing. A soft-bristled toothbrush, whitening toothpaste, and alcohol-free mouthwash ensure gentle, effective cleaning.

This routine helps remove surface stains, plaque, and debris. Consistency in your cleaning routine contributes to sustaining a radiant, dazzling smile.

Brushing Techniques 

Your brushing technique post-teeth whitening is pivotal in preventing stains from reappearing. Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush along with a whitening toothpaste. These can be gentle yet effective in removing surface stains without harming your enamel.

Ensure you brush all surfaces of your teeth for at least two minutes during each session. This thorough brushing routine helps remove food particles and plaque. This reduces the chances of stain build-up and supports the longevity of your teeth whitening results.

Do not push too hard when brushing your teeth. Aggressive brushing with excessive force can have the opposite effect you want.

It will wear down your teeth’s outer enamel. The outer enamel is white, while the dentin layer underneath is yellow. Wearing down the outer layer can make your teeth look more yellow than you would like. 

Flossing 

Flossing is essential for maintaining your bright smile after a teeth whitening procedure.

It helps remove plaque and debris from areas between your teeth and along the gumline. These are the areas that your toothbrush might not effectively reach.

Removing these particles improves your oral hygiene and reduces the risk of new stains forming.

Mouthwash 

Opting for an alcohol-free mouthwash post-teeth whitening is a wise choice. Alcohol-free mouthwashes can help remove bacteria, freshen your breath, and maintain a healthy oral environment.

Choose a mouthwash that your dentist recommends. It needs to be compatible with your teeth whitening procedure.

Change Your Diet 

After whitening, you need to make protecting your teeth a priority. This could mean making changes to a tooth-friendly diet.

Certain foods and beverages are more likely to stain your teeth. So, continuing to consume them can stain your teeth quicker. 

Avoid Staining Foods 

After your teeth whitening treatment, stay mindful of foods that could affect the brightness of your smile. Foods like blueberries, soy sauce, curry, and tomato sauce have intense pigmentation.

They can gradually stain your teeth. Try to avoid these foods or enjoy them in moderation.

When you eat them, rinse your mouth with water after consuming them. That way, you reduce potential staining and help maintain the brightness of your newly whitened smile.

Limit Teeth-Staining Beverages 

It is wise to limit the consumption of teeth-staining beverages to maintain your bright smile after teeth whitening. Beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, grape juice, cranberry juice, and pomegranate juice contain pigments that can gradually discolor your teeth.

One option is to cut these beverages out of your diet. Consider drinking with a straw if you don’t want to give them up.

Moderate consumption if a straw won’t work, such as with hot coffee or wine. After you drink them, rinse your mouth with water. This will remove any remaining staining beverage and rinse your teeth.

Drink More Water 

Staying hydrated plays a role in preserving your bright smile. Water helps wash away food particles and reduces acidity in your mouth.

Embrace Crunchy Foods

Including crunchy fruits and vegetables in your diet is helpful. These foods contain natural abrasives and high water content. Examples would be apples, carrots, or celery.

They aid in cleaning teeth by removing surface stains and stimulating saliva production. This can contribute to a cleaner and brighter smile.

Stop Using Tobacco 

Tobacco products, whether smoked or chewed, contain harmful chemicals. They will stain and discolor your teeth. These stains undermine the effectiveness of your whitening treatment.

Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings

Regular dental cleanings are key to protecting your teeth whitening treatment results. It’s highly recommended to schedule dental cleanings with your dentist every six months.

These professional cleanings help remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains that can accumulate. This happens even with diligent oral hygiene practices.

By visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings, you can maintain the brightness of your smile. You can also strive for optimal oral health. Both contribute to a lasting and vibrant outcome from your teeth whitening procedure.

Use Touch-Up Products 

Touch-up products like whitening toothpaste, gels, or strips can help maintain your bright smile.

These touch-up products can help manage surface stains. When used as directed, you can maintain the brightness of your teeth between professional treatments.

Consult your dentist for guidance on the most suitable at-home whitening products.

Always use products that your dentist recommends. That way, you know they’re compatible with your initial whitening procedure.

Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions

Adhering to your dentist’s instructions post-teeth whitening is crucial for maintaining the results. Your dentist will provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific treatment.

These instructions may include following a specific oral care routine. They could also prescribe products for better maintenance of your whitened teeth. That way, you can enjoy the long-lasting brightness of your smile.

Schedule Teeth Whitening Services

If you invest in your teeth by getting them whitened, you will want to protect the results. By practicing proper tooth care post-whitening, you will prevent stains. That way, you can enjoy pearly white results for longer.  

Justice Dental provides teeth whitening services in conjunction with cosmetic dentistry services. Our patients appreciate that we help them maintain oral health while also helping them feel confident about their smiles. 

Enjoy white teeth today by scheduling an appointment at one of our two convenient locations. 

You’ve broken your tooth – maybe for the first time – and now you need to get a crown. However, the dentist informs you that there’s a problem that needs to be solved first. Your gums are too high up and they can’t put a crown on you yet. 

What does this mean for you, though? There’s not much a person can do to shorten their gums or cause them to recede. That’s where your local periodontist comes into play. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the crown lengthening procedure and why it may be vital for your mouth.

What is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening surgery is a procedure where the gums and bone tissues surrounding a tooth are reshaped. The gums are cut down to allow more space for a crown on a tooth that has recently had a root canal. 

Unfortunately, your dentist can’t just cut back your gums on the same day that you get a new crown fitted. Your gums need time to heal, which could take over a week. Additionally, it’s a whole procedure to get your gums ready, and they can only follow up on your crown order when you’re healed. 

Another reason why you may need crown lengthening is if your gums are too high. This works more as a cosmetic dentistry procedure in that it improves your smile without being medically necessary. 

Why Crown Lengthening is Important

Tooth erosion can happen to anyone due to things like carbonated drinks or even acid reflux. If your tooth becomes too damaged, it can break and develop an infection. The only way to save an infected tooth is with a root canal.

The problem with root canals is that they always require a crown afterward to hold the tooth together. If there isn’t enough space for one, then your dentist can’t get a good mold of the tooth and fit a crown.

Without a crown, you’ll have a good deal of pain and likely need the tooth removed. Even worse is if you have an ill-fitting crown placed.

Some of the problems you face with a poorly fitted crown include gum disease, fractures, and even popping off in the middle of a meal. All of these will leave your mouth generally worse for wear. 

Crown lengthening surgery corrects that issue by reducing the visible gum tissue around the tooth to an acceptable level. Once healed, the crown can be placed as normal. 

The only downside is that it’ll push back your fitting by at least a week or two. However, there’s not much else a doctor can do about the issue than with the procedure. 

Crown Lengthening Surgery Types

In total, there are three types of crown lengthening procedures. These are a gingivectomy, apically repositioned flap surgery, and surgical extrusion. All of them aim to accomplish a similar goal, though they may be used to facilitate different end results. 

Gingivectomy

One of the oldest types of crown lengthening procedure is a gingivectomy. It involves cutting away and removing gum tissue. In some cases, your surgeon will also need to reshape the bone to limit the gum’s regrowth. 

You can expect local anesthetic to numb the pain. In some cases, they may need to use a sedative if they’re working on multiple teeth. 

The good thing about a gingivectomy is that it’s an outpatient procedure and it doesn’t take more than an hour to complete. 

Apically Repositioned Flap Surgery

This is the most common type of crown lengthening performed these days. It involves removing portions of the gum by creating a flap of tissue. The flap is lifted up and the parts of your gum tissue are cut away.

The gums are then cleaned and the flaps are closed with sutures. 

Your dentist may prefer this method as a way to maintain some keratinized tissue instead of cutting away your gum line. 

Surgical Extrusion

Surgical extrusion is one of the more invasive forms of crown lengthening. With this procedure, the periodontist will physically reposition your teeth. 

Your dentist may suggest this procedure if your tooth is badly damaged and needs repositioning. How the surgeon goes about this depends on the damage.

With simple repositioning, your surgeon will use special tools to pull the tooth into the right position. In other cases, they may need to extract the tooth entirely to reshape it before reimplanting it into your mouth. 

Recovery Process

The recovery process from a crown lengthening will depend on the procedure. 

With a gingivectomy, you only have to wait for the cut area to heal up. The oral surgeon will suture it shut, but it shouldn’t take more than a couple of weeks to heal enough for a crown placement. 

The same applies to an apically repositioned flap surgery.

However, surgical extrusion will require a bit more time to recover from. The reimplanted tooth will need to be splinted to surrounding teeth for up to a few weeks, so you’ll need to be careful until then. 

Cost of a Crown Lengthening Procedure

Generally speaking, crown lengthening is the least expensive part of repairing a broken tooth. The root canal will cost you upwards of $1,000, while the crown can be anywhere from $500 to $3,000. However, the crown lengthening should only cost a few hundred dollars. 

Once again, it all depends on the type of procedure your oral surgeon is performing. You also have to take into account the added cost if they need to use sedatives when you get a crown extension. 

If you have trouble making any of these payments, you can always set up payment plans or use a medical loan. 

Speak to Your Dentist in Lexington

A crown lengthening procedure is a low-risk outpatient surgery that may be needed for reasons other than getting a new crown placed on your teeth. In some cases, they’ll perform it to give your smile a better appearance. Either way, expect recovery to take at least a week or two. 

Justice Dental provides care for our patients in the Lexington area. Our services include general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and dental surgeries. Contact us if you have any questions and to set up an appointment today. 

Are you about to undergo a tooth extraction procedure? It happens more often than you might realize! Dental caries are the most common reason for tooth extractions (accounting for 52.2% of procedures).

However, dentists also recommend this procedure for patients with periodontal disease or damaged teeth. Don’t worry; you don’t have to remain awake. Consider sedation for tooth extraction instead.

Do you need dental sedation for your procedure? Read on to find out!

Types of Sedation

Before your tooth extraction procedure, your dentist will review the different dental sedation options available. Sedation dentistry is often used to help patients manage their anxiety. It can also reduce the likelihood of pain after the procedure.

If you’re having a tooth extracted, schedule a consultation appointment with your dentist before the surgery. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of each sedation option. 

Make sure you understand the potential side effects of each option before making your choice. Regardless of which you choose, you’ll experience no pain throughout the operation. However, you might feel a little sore afterward. 

Here are a few types of sedation your dentist might recommend for your upcoming tooth extraction procedure.

We provide both oral sedation and IV sedation at our offices. Both are conscious forms of sedation.

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is the most common type recommended for tooth extraction procedures.

During your procedure, an anesthesiologist will inject a numbing medication into the area surrounding your gums and tooth. The injection should feel like a small pinch or sting. It shouldn’t be painful.

Local anesthesia:

• Is safe for all ages
• Reduces recovery times
• Doesn’t require special equipment
• Has little risk of complications
• Has few long-term side effects

After the procedure, you might notice a tingling or throbbing sensation in your cheek or lip. This should only last for an hour or two.

IV Sedation

IV, or intravenous sedation, involves injecting a sedative directly into your bloodstream.

The dental team will continuously monitor the sedative during the procedure. They’ll ensure you’re receiving the proper dose for optimal comfort.

With IV sedation, you’ll remain in a semi-awake state. This option can reduce your anxiety. However, you won’t need assistance to breathe or maintain normal health rhythms during the procedure. 

Since you’ll remain conscious during the procedure, you can give the dentist or hygienist signals to answer questions. You likely won’t remember the treatment once the sedation wears off. Effects usually wear off by the next morning. 

However, IV sedation doesn’t numb pain. Your dentist might recommend an anesthetic and a sedative during the procedure. 

This option is ideal for patients who have dental anxiety or a strong gag reflex. It can be difficult for a dentist to perform extractions on patients with a strong gag reflex.

IV sedation is both safe and effective. It’s also fast-acting. If you’re concerned about spending too much time at a dental office, talk to your dentist about IV sedation.

This is also an ideal option if you have to remain in a chair for an extended period of time.

Oral Conscious Sedation

If your dentist recommends oral conscious sedation, you’ll take medication orally before your procedure. Though this option is most commonly used for tooth extractions, it’s also recommended for other procedures.

After taking the medication, you should feel calm and relaxed during the procedure. You won’t have to feel anxious or nervous about the extraction process. You might feel mild drowsiness.

Sleepiness is a normal side effect.

This option doesn’t require a needle or IV. It also offers a quicker recovery time compared with general anesthesia. If you choose this option, make sure you have a friend or family member available to take you home following the appointment. 

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

If your dentist recommends nitrous oxide sedation, you’ll breathe gas in through a mouthpiece or mask before the procedure. Nitrous oxide can help you feel relaxed during the procedure. If you tend to experience dental anxiety, this is an ideal option.

About 36% of people in the US have a fear of dental treatment. Another 12% have an extreme fear of treatment. Patients develop dentophobia due to:

• Family history
• Feeling embarrassed
• Feeling helpless
• Hearing someone else express their fears
• Traumatic history
• Past negative experiences

Dental anxiety can keep you from getting the treatment you need. Delaying your tooth removal procedure could compromise your dental health. 

Nitrous oxide sedation won’t put you to sleep. However, it will take away some of your awareness during the procedure. Sedation usually lasts 30 minutes to an hour.

How long the effects last will vary based on the dose and whether other medications were used. 

What To Expect

Once you arrive at the dentist’s office, you’ll get comfortable in the dental chair. Your dental team will then administer the sedative. This process will vary based on the type of sedative used.

During the tooth extraction procedure, the dental team will monitor your oxygen levels and vital signs. They’ll also ensure your airway remains open, allowing you to breathe on your own.

You’ll remain safe during the entire procedure.

After the tooth removal procedure is complete, you’ll need to get a ride home from a friend or family member. It’s normal to feel a little groggy after the procedure. Effects should subside by morning.

Let your dentist know if you experience any side effects following the procedure.

Dental sedation can help ensure a fast, easy operation. You can get your tooth removed without dental anxiety getting in the way. If you’re feeling anxious or stressed about your procedure, talk to your dentist about sedation options. 

Consider Sedation for Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction procedures don’t have to feel scary. Instead of letting your anxiety take over, consider sedation for tooth extraction procedures. Dental sedation can ease your fear and anxiety while ensuring you receive the care you need.

Talk to your Lexington dentist about dental sedation today.

Ready to schedule your next tooth extraction appointment? We can’t wait to see you!

Contact us today to schedule your appointment at one of our Lexington locations!

There’s a world record for the most expensive “Grillz” (diamond bling for your teeth) ever worn, and it was set by Katy Perry and her $1,000,000 diamond mouth sparkler. Everyone loves a sparkling smile, but going to such an extreme is not everyone’s cup of tea. Most people would happily opt for an excellent teeth whitening service instead.

Our extreme diamond-studded example also shows that a higher price does not always guarantee a product better suited to your needs. Keep these five tips in mind when you’re looking for dental services that will fit you best.

1. Going At Home or In-Office

If you’re the type of person who needs a brighter smile because you’re constantly at marketing events or doing social media campaigns, then you’re also probably incredibly busy. In-office teeth whitening will give you the brightest teeth you can get, but it may be difficult to rely solely on visiting dental services.

This is where teeth whitening strips, toothpaste, and powders can do a lot as part of your approach to teeth whitening. You’ll also want to make sure you have a good toothbrush and that you’re changing your toothbrush every six to eight months. This way, you can schedule in-office teeth whitening every time you need it for a shoot or event, but when you’re busy with day-to-day tasks you don’t have to overburden your itinerary.

We should add that at-home solutions like whitening strips or toothpaste don’t have an immediate effect. It can take many days or even a few weeks before you start seeing the results you desire. For the best and most balanced results, it’s best to start with a teeth whitening visit at a dental service and then use the at-home products to maintain the effect for longer.

2. Would a Lifestyle Change Work Better

Many things can cause tooth discoloration. Some of them are hard or impossible to change like environmental or genetic factors. Others, such as smoking or dietary issues, are much easier to change because they involve cheaper and easier lifestyle adjustments than, say, moving to a different place with different drinking water.

Teeth whitening services will definitely help make your teeth whiter regardless of the underlying cause of discoloration, but ask yourself whether you wouldn’t rather give up smoking or build better dental hygiene habits if at all possible. These are longer-term solutions that will also benefit many other areas of your general health, not just how your smile looks.

3. Cosmetic or Medical Reasons

Another factor to consider is whether you’re getting teeth whitening in response to a more severe underlying problem. Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that’s meant to remove discoloration from your teeth.

If the discoloration is from corrosive foods, long-term hygiene issues, or a form of mouth disease, then it may be a good idea to improve your dental health first before opting for the cosmetic upgrade. Preventative dentistry and other such services will affect your image too, so you won’t necessarily be choosing between health and looks when making your decision.

This consideration is important because putting off necessary medical interventions may lead to discomfort and higher costs in the future. Rather pay for preventative dentistry now than face much more expensive health risks and reconstructions later down the road.

4. Consider the Price

Modern times are forcing us to consider the cost of things more and more. When you’re weighing up all these factors, it is important to ask yourself what the end goal’s monetary worth is.

For many people like estate agents or influencers, a brighter smile can have a direct positive effect on their business. Even the confidence boost may make you a more effective salesperson. In these cases, you may want to get the combined in-office and at-home treatments.

You don’t have to be the face of your business for it to be worth it, though. The confidence boost on its own may speak to your value as a person. This can also help you figure out if the service is worth the price.

To help you figure out if it is worth it, you can find out about the average price of teeth whitening in the US. As far as cosmetic dentistry goes, teeth whitening is on the cheaper end of the spectrum of procedures. This makes it a viable option for most people.

5. Look at Teeth Whitening Service Reviews

When you’ve settled that you want to go forward with teeth whitening and have a plan to pay for it, then you’ll want to find the best service available. At this point, you’re going to want to have a look at reviews, testimonials, prices (again), and location.

Why prices and location? Well, if you see that the “dental service” offers laser teeth whitening services out of the industrial district on a cash-only basis, that’s a “dentist” you may want to avoid. The price and business location should be up to a standard you can reasonably expect for general dentistry.

More important, however, are the service’s testimonials and reviews. These are clients’ opinions on the standard of the service and their satisfaction with the service. Be sure to look at the reviews the service posts on their site as well as what people say about them on Facebook and Google.

Something to note about reviews on public sites like Google is that a larger number of reviews delivers a more unbiased result. If Google says 4.7 stars and has over 500 reviews while Trustpilot says 3.2 stars but only has 6 reviews, Google will be more accurate.

Find the Best Dental Solution for You Today

When you’re thinking about getting your teeth whitened, consider whether you want to do it at home or go to a clinic (or both), think about whether you’re looking for a cosmetic or medical fix, and whether a lifestyle change may not be what’s needed. You should also take the different services’ reviews and prices into account. These are our five tips for choosing a whitening service, but if you have other queries then definitely give them some good thought too.

Once you’ve run through our list and determined that a teeth whitening service is a good fit for you, contact us for a service you can trust. Our cosmetic dentistry is second to none and we’ll be happy to help you.

Applying a dental sealant is a good way to protect your child’s teeth. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), dental sealants can prevent up to 80 percent of cavities on the back teeth, which is where nine in 10 of all cavities occur. If you’re thinking of getting a dental sealants procedure for your child, there are a few important things to know.

Here are some of the most important facts and tips regarding dental sealant so that you and your child will be prepared for your visit.

What is Dental Sealant?

Dental sealant is a thin coating that is placed over the biting surface of your child’s molars. This sealant helps to protect the teeth from decay and cavities.

Most dental sealant is applied using a white or clear resin liquid that goes directly onto the surface of your child’s molars using a small brush. Once applied, the liquid bonds to the teeth and then it’s dried using a blue LED light.

After the sealant has “cured” it creates a strong layer of protection. This simple, non-invasive procedure is completely painless and does not require the use of anesthesia or numbing agents. 

Since the sealants bond to the tooth, there is also nothing that goes inside the tooth compared to a filling. The medical grade resin is similar to the composite that is commonly used to fill cavities. However, the thin layer and method of application create a light, protective cover for the teeth that you can’t see with the naked eye.

How and Why a Dental Sealants Procedure Works

You might wonder how a dental sealants procedure actually works. The special sealant covers the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to help prevent food particles, germs, and plaque from affecting the teeth.

This sealant forms a protective shield over the grooves in the molars (or back teeth), making it much easier for your child to keep their back teeth clean. The sealant also protects the teeth from food particles and sugar, two common causes of cavities. This protective sealant also shields the teeth from harmful bacteria.

The grooves in the molars are extremely vulnerable to germs and bacteria that can accumulate when food (especially sugar) gets trapped in them. And while brushing regularly can help, getting deep into those grooves can be a challenge, especially for children. Applying a sealant gives your child a bit of extra protection and it gives you peace of mind.

Dental Sealant Benefits

As a parent, you probably want to know more about the benefits of this simple procedure. Ultimately, the sealant will help prevent tooth decay and cavities for your child.

Dental sealants are considered a preventative procedure since they protect the teeth and help to prevent cavities. Some studies have shown that children without dental sealant were up to three times more likely to have cavities than children who had the sealant applied. 

Not only will this simple coating protect your kid’s teeth, but it will also protect your wallet. Filling cavities or removing teeth is much more costly than a standard dental sealant procedure. It’s important to note that the sealant will wear down over time, but it’s easy to get a new layer applied if you choose to do so. 

What to Expect

Now that you know more about what dental sealant is and what the benefits are, it’s time to dive into how the process works. The entire process is fast and painless, and there is no drilling or numbing required. 

Here are the general steps that your child’s dentist will take to apply the sealant.

• Your child’s teeth will be cleaned with a polishing brush and a gritty pumice toothpaste
• The teeth will be dried and isolated from saliva from the tongue and cheeks with a small cotton roll or cheek shield
• An etching solution is applied to the tooth’s surface to help disinfect and prep the tooth so the sealant can adhere
• The etching solution is rinsed off, and the teeth are dried again
• A thin bonding layer is applied to the teeth, followed by the sealant directly onto the surface over the enamel
• An LED blue light is used to “cure” the sealant and allows for faster application

Once the dental sealant is applied and cured, the appointment is officially completed. Overall, it takes just one minute to seal each tooth, so the entire process is extremely quick. In most cases, your child will be able to eat and drink right afterward.

More Important Facts

Most dental sealants should last anywhere from three to five years, but they may last up to 10 years in some cases. Your dentist will check the condition of the sealants during your child’s regular dental appointments.

If the sealant is damaged or worn, it’s very easy to replace or repair. How long they last may depend on how well your child maintains their teeth during this time.

Most dental insurance plans should cover dental sealants for children. Be sure to check with your specific insurance provider to confirm that it’s covered and to find out how much it will cost you. 

Protect Your Child’s Teeth with Dental Sealant

Now that you know more about the dental sealants procedure, you can feel confident about your kid’s dental health. This quick and painless procedure is a great way to protect your child’s teeth for years to come.

If you’re interested in dental sealant or another of our dental services, be sure to contact us today with any questions or to schedule an appointment. 

Two of the most common reasons people avoid preventative dental care are lack of time and finances. Another major reason is fear.

Despite that, preventative dentistry is extremely important not just for your teeth, but your entire body as well. When dental problems progress, the are chances the damage is irreversible. 

If you’re on the fence about visiting a dentist in Lexington, KY, let’s put your mind at ease and look at why preventative dentistry is needed. 

What is Preventative Dentistry?

Preventative dentistry is the practice of regularly caring for your teeth by using good oral hygiene techniques and practices. In this way, you maintain the health of your teeth and body. 

Without preventative dentistry, you may succumb to oral and other health problems such as:

• Gum disease, like gingivitis and periodontal disease
• Loss of teeth
• Oral cancers
• Tooth decay
• Bacterial infections
• Heart problems
• Cavities
• Complications from diabetes

As you can see, caring for your teeth and mouth is critical to your health. Many of these problems are detected at dentist’s appointments and in some cases, like gingivitis, may be reversed to save your teeth and gums. 

Children, especially, need to develop healthy oral habits as early as possible in life to avoid the pain and frustration that may follow from poor oral care. 

Types of Preventative Dentistry

So, what are the types of preventative dentistry and why are they important? Here are a few to consider. 

1. Dental Cleanings

One of the best and easiest ways to preserve and protect your teeth is to schedule regular dental cleanings. 

Over time, plaque forms on your teeth, and when it’s not removed, it turns into tartar. Tartar eats away at the gum line and may cause gum disease. Regular dental cleanings keep plaque and bacteria at bay. 

Your dentist also checks for dental problems, so visiting your dentist may help you find potential problems that could become worse over time. 

2. Sealants

Cavities are one of the main reasons that people visit the dentist. When food particles become stuck on the teeth or sit for too long, cavities form and they need to be removed and filled. 

However, if you opt for sealants, you can lower your chances of cavities significantly. Sealants are a thin coating that covers the top of your tooth and acts as a shield against food particles. They’re especially beneficial for children who need to develop their brushing habits over time. 

3. Oral Testing

Periodontal disease affects nearly half of adults living in the United States. While this is a sobering statistic, there are services offered to find out if you’re at risk.

Oral DNA testing is a type of diagnostic dentistry that looks at the type of bacteria that’s in your mouth and determines what treatments work best to combat it and avoid deadly diseases. This form of preventative care gives you peace of mind, as your dentist works with you to give you the utmost care.

4. Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is an important mineral that’s necessary for the health of your teeth. When you visit your dentist they may recommend a fluoride varnish to strengthen your teeth. This treatment can be done every few months depending on the health of your teeth. 

Children receive fluoride at their visits because their teeth are still growing and forming. 

5. Restorative and Cosmetic Procedures

You might be thinking, “What are restorative dentistry and cosmetic procedures?”

While these types of dentistry are not considered preventative, they can improve the look and feel of your mouth, which in turn may cause you to care for your teeth more. 

Restorative dentistry includes fixing oral problems that arise from traumatic situations like injury or illness. Cosmetic dentistry involves methods or techniques to whiten or straighten your teeth. 

The Patient’s Roll in Preventative Dentistry

While the dentist plays a vital role in your oral care, you can help! There are several preventative measures you can take in your dental care before you step into a dentist’s office. 

Here are some ways that you help protect your teeth.

1. Healthy Oral Habits

Regular brushing and flossing are tried-and-true methods of keeping your teeth healthy and strong. You should be brushing after meals, in the evening before bed, and flossing once a day.

These practices will go a long way in warding off any type of oral problems like gum disease and keep other expensive costs at bay. 

2. Healthy Eating

Consuming healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, and dairy all aid in keeping your mouth clean and healthy. Added sugars or processed foods cause bacteria build-up on your teeth and may cause problems. Crunchy foods like carrots help remove bacteria and other build-ups on your teeth

Also, indulging in sweet foods deprives your teeth and body of the nutrients it needs to maintain good bone health. 

3. Visiting the Dentist

Visiting your dentist at least yearly is recommended, and sometimes twice a year depending on your situation. Regular dental cleanings will remove all the harmful bacteria from your gums and teeth.

Your dentist can also offer you oral education on the best ways to care for your teeth at home. They may even provide you with a toothbrush, floss, or mouthwash. 

Do You Need a Dentist in Lexington, KY?

By visiting your dentist and taking your role in preventative dentistry, you can feel confident about having a healthy mouth and teeth in the future. Preventative dentistry is there to help!

Are you looking for a dentist in Lexington, KY? Our caring team of professionals at Justice Dental can help! Contact us today with questions or to set up your appointment. 

Almost half of American adults consider a bright white smile the most important component of the proverbial first impression. 

The popularity of professional teeth whitening services is thus unsurprising. According to some estimates, more than 45 million Americans have pursued professional whitening services.

Professional whitening is a safe and highly effective way to improve your smile. However, choosing professional whitening services still requires at-home maintenance. 

Read on to find out how to keep teeth white after professional cosmetic dentistry procedures.

How to Keep Teeth White

Teeth whitening aftercare requires being proactive and vigilant about how you treat your teeth. This means paying attention to your diet and dental hygiene routine.

1. Brush Twice, Floss Once

It goes without saying that white teeth are healthy teeth, and healthy teeth require regular cleanings.

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing the teeth for two minutes twice daily. It also recommends flossing once a day.

Regular brushing and flossing can prevent food and drink from staining the teeth. They can also help keep teeth white by removing bacteria and plaque.

Finally, proper dental hygiene prevents tooth decay, which can discolor teeth and cause a host of other cosmetic and health problems.

2. Brush with an Electric Toothbrush and Whitening Toothpaste

If you want to up your dental hygiene game, invest in an electric toothbrush and opt for whitening toothpaste.

Electric toothbrushes themselves don’t whiten teeth, and they cannot remove internal stains. No toothbrush or toothpaste can. Therefore, they are not a substitute for professional teeth whitening.

However, electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque and external stains than regular brushes. Thus, they can be a helpful part of your teeth whitening aftercare routine.

Whitening toothpaste, too, can help you maintain your bright white smile. 

Compared to regular toothpaste, whitening toothpaste tends to use more abrasive ingredients, like silica and baking soda. Along with vigorous brushing, these ingredients can remove surface stains.

Keep in mind, though, that when used excessively, whitening toothpaste can damage the enamel of your teeth and irritate gums. Some people also experience tooth sensitivity when using whitening toothpaste.

It’s wise, therefore, to limit your use of whitening toothpaste to a few times a week. Also always choose a whitening toothpaste that has the ADA seal of approval.

3. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Another component of a healthy dental hygiene routine is the preventative checkup. You should visit your dentist for a professional cleaning and checkup every six months. 

While an electric toothbrush is stronger than a manual brush, your dentist’s tools are more powerful still. At your regular checkup, your dentist will clean your teeth and remove tartar that your at-home cleanings simply can’t.

Your dentist will also look for—and, if necessary, treat—early signs of periodontal disease and decay. 

4. Limit Consumption of Foods That Stain Teeth

The obvious culprits when it comes to discolored teeth are coffee, black tea, and red wine.

However, other intensely colored foods can also stain teeth. These include:

• Coke
• Sports drinks
• Dark-colored fruits and fruit juices
• Marinara and other tomato-based sauces
• Soy sauce
• Balsamic vinegar
• Curry
• Candy

Beyond this list, you can also keep the t-shirt test in mind. If a substance can stain a white t-shirt, it can stain your teeth.

It’s unlikely that you’ll be able—or want—to avoid the above food and drink options entirely. However, you can cut back on your consumption of them.

You should also remember to brush promptly after eating or drinking substances that can stain your teeth. At the very least, rinsing your mouth with water after a meal can limit the damage.

Finally, you can try using a straw to drink intensely colored liquids, like coffee, Coke, or tea.

5. Enjoy Food and Drink Options That Promote Healthy Teeth

While certain foods stain teeth, other foods help you maintain your bright smile.

Dairy products are among the best options to promote dental health and whiter teeth. So after a whitening procedure, fill your diet with milk, cheese, yogurt, and cottage cheese.

Fruits and vegetables, like apples, pears, celery, and carrots, are also ideal. These foods trigger your salivary glands. Saliva neutralizes acid and helps remove food particles and other debris that can cause stains or decay.

Finally, eggs, poultry, salmon, and other lean meats and fish contribute protein and other nutrients that keep teeth strong.

6. Chew Sugarless Gum

Enjoying sugarless gum is another way to promote saliva production. While it’s no substitute for brushing, chewing sugarless gum also helps keep teeth clean.

7. Quit Smoking

Smoking is among the worst culprits when it comes to discolored teeth.

Tobacco leaves brown stains on the surface of teeth. Over time, these stains penetrate more deeply and become more difficult to remove.

Smoking also contributes to gum disease, bad breath, and countless other health problems, including cancer.

If you’ve invested in professional teeth whitening, such as KoR Whitening, therefore, it’s important, too, to invest in your overall health by quitting smoking.

Kicking the habit will not only protect your bright white smile. By reducing your risk for serious illness and death, you’ll also have more reasons to use it. 

8. Be Aware of Medications and Other Chemicals That Stain Teeth

Certain medications and other chemicals can lead to discolored teeth. These include:

• Certain antihistamines, antipsychotics, and blood pressure medicines
• Excessive iron
• Excessive fluoride
• Certain ingredients, such as chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride, in antibacterial mouthwashes

In children, tetracycline, an antibiotic, can also cause the teeth to take on a grayish appearance.

Being aware of the potential relationship between medications and tooth discoloration is important. Equally, important, though, is maintaining your overall health. You should never stop taking a medication without your doctor’s approval.

If you are concerned about medications staining your teeth, talking to your doctor is a good first step. He or she can help you determine if your medications are the culprit. If they are, your doctor can help you protect your health and your smile.

Rediscover and Protect Your Smile with Professional Teeth Whitening Aftercare

Now that you know how to keep teeth white, it’s up to you to put your plan into action.

No matter where you are in that process, Justice Dental is here to help. 

Maybe you’re still looking for the right professional whitening service. Or maybe you’ve had your teeth whitened but need to schedule a check-up.

Maybe, finally, you know you need dental work. However, you can’t make it into the office right now and need a virtual consultation.

Whatever your circumstances, Justice Dental is your dentist for a lifetime. Contact us today.