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Depending on the treatment type, oral surgery in Colonia, NJ may require a few weeks to return to your everyday routine. After the surgery, the dental tissue is sensitive. It leaves the site exposed and more prone to bacterial build-up.

Furthermore, the mouth is soft and you have swollen jaws after a wisdom tooth removal or root canal therapy. Thus, it is pivotal to understand what food to take and what foods to cut off. The dentist usually recommends consuming soft food varieties for the first few days. The main motto behind it is to prevent damage to the gums and teeth. Also, the oral surgeon will let you know when it’s the right time to return to your normal diet.

Foods to Avoid After Oral Surgery

Refrain from foods that are hard to chew, chewy, crunchy, acidic, spicy, and brittle for one week after the oral surgery. It’s because they can cause pain in your soft mouth and make it tough to eat. Moreover, it also extends the recovery time. Thus, it’s always best to be on the side of caution rather than cause damage.

Also, avoid using a straw because the “sucking” action can dislodge the new blood clot formed. Avoid tea or coffee that is too hot. Wait till they cool down to avoid the risks. Moreover, strictly refrain from lemonade, orange juice, and other beverages with high citric acid. It’s because it can cause skin irritation and enhance your risk of infection.

Below are the oral surgery foods to avoid:

• Chewy candies
• Tough meats
• Popcorns
• Chips
• Rice
• Nuts
• Bagels
• Pretzels
• Citrus juices and foods
• Cookies
• Dense, crusty, and hard bread
• Spicy curries
• Crunchy veggies and fruits
• Hot peppers, etc.

Note: If you drink alcohol or have tobacco products, quit their use for 72 hours after your oral surgery. Doing this could irritate your wound and result in infection and severe damage to the surgical area. Also, alcohol can even affect a few medicines badly.

Rather, Take the Following Foods After the Treatment

Although it’s tempting to grab a hamburger or orange juice with your breakfast after surgery, you can take mouth-friendly foods. Many oral surgeons believe after oral surgery receiving proper nutrition can be hard. As per American Dental Association, take nutrient-loaded foods to ensure your body gets the required minerals and vitamins for proper healing after the surgical procedure.

Thus, try your best to ensure a balance between unhealthy and healthy food choices. You must strictly indulge in soft foods and liquids for nearly one week.

Below is the list of foods to keep on your menu:

• Oatmeal
• Refried beans
• Greek Yogurt
• Fruit smoothies
• Soft pasta
• Protein shakes
• Soft scrambled eggs
• Applesauce
• Cooked and soft veggies
• Pudding
• Mashed potatoes
• Soups with soft veggies, broths, purees, or cream soups.

Slowly Get Back to Your Standard Diet

It is tough to speak and eat while you recover. One of the most common queries that many oral surgery patients have in their mind is how much time it takes till you can resume eating solid food without any concern.

Eating solid foods immediately after oral surgery enhances the risk of developing an infection. It’s mainly when the tiny food bits get lodged in the surgical area. It also causes damage or pain to the site. Most dentists recommend returning to your original diet gradually as you recover. Begin with semi-solid foods before indulging in something that needs a lot of chewing.

Refrain from drinks that will dehydrate you. Rather, take plenty of water. Furthermore, a few salty foods can lead to dehydration. Strictly avoid foods with high sodium content.

In most cases, after the 7-days window, patients return to their diet. But in the case of complicated oral surgery, the timeline will be more. The dentist will also recommend taking care of your dental health after surgery.

Get in Touch with Our Oral Surgeon in Colonia, NJ Today

By stocking your kitchen with the best foods and drinks, you can prepare for your oral surgery ahead for a successful recovery. If you have any questions about how you are healing, get in touch with the dental surgeon in Colonia, NJ at Colonia Dental Associates today.

Our teeth are susceptible to tooth decay and tooth cavities. This is why fluoride treatment in Colonia, NJ is essential. Fluoride is a crucial mineral for our teeth as it reverses tooth decay and solidifies your tooth enamel. By making your tooth’s enamel strong, it becomes more resistant to cavities as harmful bacteria cannot penetrate beyond it. There are different sources of fluoride, like the water we usually drink and fluoridated toothpaste.

Additionally, a dental fluoride treatment may also be performed by the fluoride dentist to protect prone teeth from tooth decay and cavities. So, how is this procedure performed? We’ll take you through the procedure and the benefits of opting for fluoride treatment.

What Happens During Professional Fluoride Treatment?

It is essential to know that professional fluoride treatment involves the application of fluoride, more than is contained in drinking water or toothpaste. There are different modes of performing professional fluoride treatment for teeth. Some of the methods include:

• Fluoride varnish- this method involves the dentist applying fluoride on your teeth left on the surface of your teeth for some time. Leaving the fluoride on your teeth’s surface for some time ensures that your teeth absorb it.
• Fluoride gel or foam- the fluoride is in the form of gel, which is applied on your teeth and left for a few minutes before rinsing.
• Fluoride supplements- this treatment method involves the administration of a tablet which you will chew or suck before swallowing it. The supplements can also be found in liquid form, which the dentist will instruct you to swish before swallowing.
• Fluoride mouth rinses- as the name indicates, this treatment involves taking a concentrated solution that you swish around your teeth as instructed. You will go for this treatment weekly.

How Much Fluoride Do You Need?

Too much of anything is harmful, and the same applies to the use of fluoride. Dentists recommend going for professional fluoride treatment every 3, 6, or 12 months. The number of times you should go for the treatment depends on the condition of your teeth, their susceptibility to decay and cavities, and overall oral health.

Most people get enough fluoride from drinking water, supplements, and food. These are the recommended daily amounts of fluoride:

• Adolescents and adults: 1.5 to 4 mg.
• Children between 7 to 10 years: 1.5 to 2.5 mg.
• Children between 4 to 6 years: 1 to 2.5 mg.
• Birth to 3 years of age: 0.1 to 1.5 mg.

So, what can make you more susceptible to cavities? Here are some of the causes:

• Weak enamel.
• Dry mouth or decreased saliva levels.
• Poor diet.
• Lack of routine dental checkups.
• Poor oral hygiene.
• Eating disorder.
• Excessive consumption of alcohol.

What Are the Benefits of Fluoride?

• Protects your tooth’s enamel- one of the main benefits of fluoride is that it protects the enamel. So, why do your teeth need protection? Consumption of acidic foods and drinks can lead to the gradual weakening of the enamel. This deterioration makes your teeth more sensitive to hot or cold beverages. Tooth sensitivity can make it hard for you to enjoy your life as it creates an unpleasant sensation whenever you drink hot or cold beverages. Therefore, fluoride protects your enamel to prevent breakage, strengthen it, and reduce sensitivity.
• Prevents tooth decay and cavities- our mouths naturally contain bacteria. However, harmful bacteria combine with sugar from our foods and drinks and food debris, leading to decay. As the decay progresses, it erodes your teeth, creating holes called cavities. Fluoride treatment strengthens the enamel reversing the effects of tooth decay and preventing future cavities.
• Remineralizes your teeth- other than damaging your tooth’s enamel, the acid also destroys minerals in your teeth. Some of the minerals destroyed include phosphorus and calcium, which are crucial for the health of your teeth. The good news is that fluoride treatment helps restore these minerals for the maintenance of healthy, strong teeth.
• Saves capital in the long run- You can opt for fluoride treatment to strengthen your teeth and prevent dental diseases. This will save money in the long run as tooth decay and cavities may require more expensive dental procedures.

Now that you know the benefits of fluoride treatment don’t hesitate to visit Colonia Dental Associates. Our dentist will examine your teeth, identify any oral problem, treat it, and apply fluoride for stronger, healthier teeth.

If you’ve had a dental cavity before, you know the procedure. You will visit your dentist, who will then drill your teeth and fill it with a resin that will taste weird for the next few days. It was not long ago when gold fillings were popular before the emergence of silver amalgams and composite fillings. Gold fillings were considered the gold standard and the better alternative for over a century. However, advances in dental technology brought up fillings that could blend in with the natural dentition making the gold fillings less popular. Here is what to keep in mind if you are considering gold fillings.

Is Gold Filling Real Gold?

While gold fillings have gold in them, it’s not pure gold. These dental fillings are made of copper, silver, zinc palladium, and platinum. Pure gold would make an unsuitable filling because it’s very soft and not strong. The advantages of having gold fillings at Colonia Dental Associates include the following:

• Gold is very malleable and can fit the tooth cavity accurately without leaving gaps between the fillings and the enamel.
• They are highly durable and can last two or four times longer than other dental fillings materials.
• They don’t damage the opposing teeth.
• Less tooth reduction is required when placing them.
• Gold fillings are biocompatible with other oral tissues, such as the gums, and resistible to corrosion.
• Unlike other dental fillings, they are ductile and do not fracture or crack.

When They Are Used

While gold fillings are less common than before, they are still used by dentists. They are used to provide support and strengthen a damaged tooth. Here is the procedure for gold teeth fillings in Colonia, NJ:

• The dentist will first examine your mouth and check the cavity. They may request a dental x-ray to see the extent of the damage.
• You will then be administered local anesthesia to numb the area to prevent pain and discomfort.
• The dentist will then drill out the decayed or damaged part. Depending on the dentist, they may use a laser or an air abrasion tool.
• They will then clean and sterilize the area and make an impression of the cavity hole.
• A temporary filling is placed while you wait for the permanent gold filling.
• During the second appointment, the filling will be placed and cemented into place.

After receiving your filling, decrease the risk of infections and other dental issues by,

• Flossing daily.
• Taking a balanced diet.
• Brushing your teeth twice a day.
• Visit the dentist in Colonia, NJ if you experience prolonged tooth sensitivity or pain.

How Long Do They Last

It’s not a secret that gold fillings can last longer for about 15 to 30 years. As it’s a durable metal gold filling that can withstand extensive grinding, chewing, and heavy biting, making them ideal for individuals with strong wear tooth patterns. Gold fillings will not crack, oxidize or discolor on the surface. They are also not prone to expansion or contraction with temperature changes which can cause discomfort. Additionally, proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits will increase the durability of your gold filling.

The Cost of Gold Fillings

The cost of gold fillings is determined by how large it is. Gold is more expensive than other fillings since it is designed to last longer. The final price of the filling depends on the extent of the decay, the placement of the filling, and if there are complications that may arise. Generally, expect to spend between $ 400 to $1,500 for a gold filling. It is hard to give a specific price since the price of gold changes over time. Other costs may include administrative and procedural equipment costs such as sedation or ancillary dental services.

But will my insurance cover the filing? Dental insurance policies can cover gold fillings, but you must check with your providers before assuming they do. But like other insurance claims, you must pay your deductible before they step in and pay for the rest. For example, if you have already met your deductible and the filling costs $250, it would cost you $50. Contact our offices for dental fillings in Colonia, NJ, for customized and affordable services.

The number one reason for tooth loss is periodontal disease. It is a severe form of gingivitis, also known as gum disease. Periodontal disease can be caused by various factors, which include genetics, smoking, and poor dental hygiene. In addition to altering your appearance, tooth loss can cause poor self-esteem and embarrassment, consequently affecting your social life. So to avoid tooth loss, one should practice good oral hygiene and eat healthy foods. However, all hope is not lost. With the advancement of dental technology today, dentists can restore your smile even when your teeth are damaged. At Colonia Dental Associates, our dentists are well-skilled to transform your smile. Let’s discuss more reasons for tooth loss and how we can prevent it in the future.

Common Causes for Tooth loss

Many factors can bring about tooth loss. It all comes down to your oral hygiene, eating habits, and lifestyle. Knowing the causes of tooth loss helps keep your teeth intact. The most common reasons for tooth loss include the following:

Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is the number one cause of tooth loss. Research has shown that 70 percent of missing teeth result from gum disease. Periodontal disease is brought about by poor oral hygiene. Not brushing your teeth regularly and thoroughly leads to the accumulation of bacteria in your mouth. The bacteria then damages and weakens your gums resulting in gum disease. Some tell-tale signs of gum disease include bleeding gums and a foul odor emanating from your mouth. Severe gum disease can result in lung and heart disease. Therefore it would be best to practice good oral hygiene to protect your teeth.

Cavities

Cavities are small holes in your teeth that come from bacterial infections resulting from food buildup on your teeth. They destroy the root of your teeth and may lead to teeth extraction. Consequently, you may lose most of your teeth due to cavities.

Physical Injury

Sometimes your teeth can be knocked out in the event of physical injury. However, there are ways to prevent physical injuries, like refraining from cracking nuts or opening soda bottles with your teeth.

Smoking

Smoking leads to tartar buildup and bacteria accumulation in your teeth. The plaque accumulation, in turn, leads to teeth-related problems like gingivitis and cavities that cause teeth loss.

Diabetes

When you have diabetes, your body produces a lot of glucose. Glucose accumulation in your mouth leads to plaque buildup and eventual tooth loss.

Preventing Tooth Loss

Ways to prevent tooth loss include the following:

• Brushing using fluoride toothpaste after meals
• Rinsing your mouth after meals
• Regular dentist visits
• Drinking tap water and avoiding salt water
• Refrain from taking high-sugar foods like chocolate and candies
• Getting fluoride treatments

Missing Teeth Replacement Step by Step

Dental implants replace missing teeth. Here is a step-by-step guide on how dentists misplace missing teeth:

• Getting X Rays
• Extraction of damaged teeth
• Jawbone grafting where necessary
• Placing of dental implants
• Bone growth
• Placement of artificial teeth

Preventive Dentistry in Colonia, NJ,

Preventive dentistry entails practices to restore your teeth. Regular preventive dentistry is costly but prevents you from losing your teeth. Patients are required to observe dental care at home and during their appointments. Preventive dentistry consists of the following:

Regular Dental Exams and cleaning of teeth

The exams are sometimes done bi-annually and involve removing tartar and plaque from your teeth and gums. The dentists then examine your gums and whole mouth, and jawline. With regular dental visits, dentists can detect and treat diseases like gum disease early enough.

At Home Care

This step entails caring for your teeth at home through regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste. Patients are also advised to floss and rinse their mouths regularly to prevent tooth decay.

Dental Sealants and Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride strengthens your enamel and jawbone. Dental sealants protect your teeth from cavities by creating a barrier. A thin coat of dental cement is applied on the chewing parts of your mouth, which are hard to clean, thus minimizing tooth decay.

Observing a Good Diet

During treatment, dentists recommend observing a good diet. A good diet consists of fruits, vegetables, milk, and proteins, while an unhealthy diet consists of snacks and high-sugar foods.

Conclusion

Good oral health plays a significant role in preventing the loss of teeth. Research has it that the leading cause of teeth loss is periodontal disease, caused by the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth due to poor oral hygiene. Other causes of gum disease include smoking. Apart from gum disease, diseases like diabetes can cause teeth loss. Therefore, the surest way to prevent teeth loss is by visiting the dentist regularly and cleaning your teeth properly.

Dental veneers are thin coatings that restore your smile when you have stained, chipped or misshaped teeth. The good thing about dental veneer application is that it is a less invasive dental procedure. Although this is the case, there are concerns about cavities forming with these thin coatings. So, can you get cavities with veneers? And what happens when you do? Keep on reading to find answers to these questions.

What Are Dental Veneers

It is essential to know what these dental appliances are, to understand what happens when you get a cavity with veneers. Veneers are thin coatings applied on the front part of your teeth to hide tooth imperfections. The imperfections may range from stained, chipped, or misshapen teeth. If you also have uneven spaces between teeth, looking for a dentist who installs dental veneers in Colonia, NJ, would be best.

These restorative appliances are made of either composite resin or porcelain materials. You will have to choose the type of material that suits you, as each has pros and cons.

How Do Cavities Form?

Cavities form through a specific procedure. First, there is the formation of plaque. This is a clear sticky film that covers the surface of your teeth. Plaque is caused by consuming excess starch and sugar and poor oral hygiene. So, when you do not brush your teeth well, the bacteria caused by the excess starch and sugar begin “eroding your teeth’s surface .”Gradually, the plaque continues to harden, and cleaning it off becomes challenging by brushing. After some time, plaque leads to the formation of tartar. Tartar leads to the hardening of plaque, and this creates a protective shield for bacteria.

Your teeth have minerals, and the acidity caused by plaque begins eroding them. When the minerals are removed, your teeth’s enamel becomes weak. So, it becomes easier for bacteria to penetrate the enamel and reach the next layer of your teeth, the dentin. The dentin has a thinner layer than the enamel, so bacteria will easily erode it.

Tiny tubes in the dentin are linked to the teeth’s nerves. So, when bacteria erode, you will feel discomfort when you consume hot or cold foods and drinks. Failure to visit the dentist for treatment means that the bacteria will continue to erode your teeth, and this means that once the dentin has been eroded, the bacteria will erode the tooth’s pulp.

The pulp is where there are blood vessels and nerves. When bacteria reach this area, the pulp becomes irritated and swollen. At this stage, you will feel immense pain due to the nerve endings found here.

Now that you know how cavities are formed, can you get a cavity with veneers?

Can You Get A Cavity With Veneers?

Dental veneers are dental appliances installed for cosmetic reasons. Therefore, they cannot prevent cavities. However, the material used to make veneers means they cannot get tooth decay, but your natural teeth can. So, it would be best to schedule regular dental appointments so the dentist can treat any tooth cavity before spreading deep into your tooth.

One reason that can lead to a tooth cavity with veneers is when they are not fitted well. Small spaces are left between the veneer and your tooth when veneers are not fitted well. These small spaces are hard to brush with your soft-bristled toothbrush. Therefore, a cavity can form in these small spaces.

Another cause of cavities with veneers is poor oral hygiene. The truth is poor oral hygiene is the main cause of cavities. So, veneers will not protect your teeth from developing bacteria that lead to cavities. In addition, dental veneers are only applied to the front part of your teeth; therefore, all other areas of your teeth are left vulnerable to bacteria.

Lastly, if you have worn veneers for a long time, there are higher chances of getting a cavity. This is because food debris can find its way beneath these dental appliances. When this happens, the food debris creates a conducive environment for bacteria growth.

Therefore, it would be best to schedule regular dental appointments at Colonia Dental Associates so our dentist can examine your veneers and teeth and clean them to prevent the formation of a cavity.

What Is Dental Bonding?

It is a procedure in cosmetic dentistry that makes tweaks to teeth’ enamel to elevate appearances. Dental bonding in Colonia, NJ, entails a simple procedure for correcting various oral flaws on teeth without taking invasive measures.

What Is the Procedure for Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding employs a tooth-colored resin called composite. It looks like natural teeth, coming in various shades of white that match real teeth. The resin can be molded and shaped differently to take the desired shape necessary to adjust a tooth’s appearance.

The procedure begins with a roughening process for the enamel. Dentists use a conditioning liquid to achieve a rough exterior, to enhance the bonding process. After roughening the tooth, your dentist will begin applying the composite resin. The application is quick and easy since the resin is putty-like. While applying the composite, the dentist will also be shaping and molding it accordingly to meet the intended purpose. By this, the composite can change the shape, size, and color of the target tooth.

The next step entails hardening the resin to bond it to your natural tooth structure. Dentists at Colonia Dental Associates use lasers to harden the resin and strengthen the bond. Afterward, the dentist will trim any excess material before polishing the tooth for a final natural glare.

How Long Will Your Treatment Take?

Dental bonding takes a little of your time in the dentist’s office. It should take about 45 minutes to complete one tooth. Of course, your treatment will take longer if you need treatment for more teeth.

The better news is that you will not need downtime. You can resume your normal life immediately after you leave the dentist’s office.

Why Do You Need Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding procedures are available for all patients that desire to improve their oral aesthetics. It offers a simple and quick solution to various teeth-related flaws. Some of the factors that should prompt you to try composite bonding are:

1. Spaces between teeth – composite bonding is an ideal solution for closing spaces up to 5mm between teeth. When you smile, these spaces can be unsightly, especially regarding a misplaced midline.
2. Dental discoloration – some stains on your teeth will not respond well to teeth bleaching efforts. Therefore, you can benefit from dental bonding procedures to mask stains and promote evenly white teeth.
3. Tooth fractures – dental bonding can only fix fractures that damage the enamel alone. Any further damage would require a different treatment. Dental bonding will mask the crack, chip, or break on your tooth.
4. Oddly shaped and sized teeth – you can have unusually short, pointy, rounded, or ragged teeth. Such oral problems are correctable with dental bonding.

Although dental bonding is primarily common in cosmetic dentistry, it can restore your teeth in different ways. Dentists can use the same composite resin to:

1. Fill dental cavities – as alternatives to silver fillings or amalgams.
2. Protect teeth from bacteria that cause cavities – as one of the types of dental sealants.
3. Protect exposed tooth roots – due to advanced periodontal disease.

How to Prepare for Dental Bonding

Ideally, you should not be overwhelmed by cosmetic bonding. It is one of the most commonly performed procedures in cosmetic dentistry. The only preparation you must make is for a comprehensive dental evaluation.

Dentists typically employ dental x-rays and thoroughly examine your teeth and gums prior to your treatment. The examination helps evaluate your oral health to determine whether you are an ideal candidate for treatment. The dentist cannot proceed with composite bonding procedures if you have an active infection in your gums or a cavity on your tooth.

What Makes Dental Bonding Worthwhile?

There is a reason composite bonding is very popular in cosmetic dentistry, amidst other solutions for improvising teeth appearance. Some of the benefits of dental bonding are:

1. It is reversible – you can change your mind about composite bonding and remove them without permanent damage to your teeth.
2. It is a quick fix to various dental problems.
3. It is a versatile tool for correcting various dental flaws at a go.
4. Composite bonding is an affordable solution for improving your smile’s appearance, compared to using other materials like porcelain.

After getting your teeth whitened, instead of thinking about its benefits, you consider how long the results of the whitening treatment last and how you must care for your teeth to maintain the results as long as possible. While you aren’t unjustified in considering retaining the effects of teeth whitening the longest, it helps if you try to understand some after-care tips dentists suggest to achieve your goal.

This article looks at some excellent after-care instructions dentists provide to ensure the results of your whitening treatment remain with you as long as possible, using some simple tips suggested in this article for your benefit. We hope you will follow the instructions of the dentist providing teeth whitening in Colonia, Woodbridge Township, NJ, to succeed in your goal of keeping your teeth brighter for longer.

After-Care Instructions Following Teeth Whitening

Avoid Pigmented Beverages

Generally, it is best that you refrain from having pigmented drinks because they are responsible for intense staining. Your teeth have robust enamel, the strongest portion of your body. Sadly the enamel is prone to staining because of its porous nature. Routine beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine stain your teeth making it best to avoid having them or at least limit them as best possible. Following teeth whitening treatment, dentists recommend consuming light-colored foods such as unseasoned chicken, plain fish, and starches such as pasta and rice. Light-colored foods help the freshly whitened color of your teeth remain on the surface.

Sensitivity Products

You will likely experience tooth sensitivity to temperature after receiving teeth whitening from the Colonia provider or any dentist in the locality. In such circumstances, instead of enduring the sensitivity, you can help yourself by investing in toothpaste to deal with the sensitivity. You can also purchase a gel for application to your teeth. These products help reduce any sensitivity and discomfort after receiving whitening treatments.

Avoiding Chewy Foods

Incredibly chewy foods often damage freshly whitened teeth. If you try to have challenging foods problematic to chew, the material might remain stuck to the tooth surface, causing a stain or damaging the brighter teeth. Therefore it helps to stay away from chewy foods for a few days to benefit from the teeth whitening treatment.

Brushing Technique

If you experience sensitivity, it’s best to exercise caution when brushing your teeth and prefer to clean them gently instead of aggressively. You must ensure you don’t strip the whitening from your teeth or increase the discomfort you feel for the best results from the whitening treatment and the investment you made in the sensitivity toothpaste.

Don’t Consider Repeat Whitening Immediately

If you are not 100 percent satisfied with the teeth whitening results, please don’t rush to another dentist to get your teeth whitened again. You must refrain from such practices because instead of getting your teeth whitened, you might encourage enamel erosion from the ingredients dentists use for the whitening. In addition, most likely, dentists will recognize that your teeth are whitened and will probably refuse repeat treatment immediately after you have received the therapy from another practitioner. Therefore you must wait for at least 90 days before considering another treatment to whiten your teeth.

Dental Visits

An essential part of after-care instructions is to schedule a follow-up visit with your dentist after completing teeth whitening treatment. You must have your dentist confirm that no harm occurred during the whitening process by examining your teeth to put your mind at ease and free you from concerns about your teeth whitening treatment.

If you find avoiding your morning coffee or the evening glass of red wine challenging, you can use straws for drinking to ensure the liquids don’t contact your teeth to discolor them. Similarly, when having staining foods, it helps if you keep a toothbrush handy and clean your teeth after you finish eating.

Besides the above must also maintain excellent dental hygiene practices by brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing once, using an antiseptic mouthwash twice a day, and getting half-yearly dental exams and cleanings to keep your teeth appearing in optimal color and shape.

After investing in a professional in-office teeth whitening treatment, following the after-care instructions suggested in this article is the best technique to keep your teeth appearing whiter and brighter. However, if you have additional questions about these instructions, you can discuss your needs with Colonia Dental Associates, where the dental team can assist you in caring for your teeth after whitening them.

Missing teeth can mar even the most beautiful smiles. Besides poor dental aesthetics, missing teeth can lead to other oral health issues such as chewing difficulties, indigestion, jaw bone deterioration, etc. Thanks to tooth implants, you can now replace any number of missing teeth.

However, a tooth implant is a root replacement. The titanium rod is usually inserted into the jawbone to replace the missing root. But the tooth implant will not be functional without covering it with dental crowns in Colonia, NJ.

The tooth implant is not complete without being covered with a crown. Crowns cannot replace missing teeth only if a dental implant anchors them. If this is the case, then it is known as an implant-supported crown.

The Parts of an Artificial Tooth

What is known as a tooth implant is a small titanium screw-like rod, usually the size of a root, that is inserted into the jaw bone. This particular feature is what makes dental implants stand out from the other missing teeth replacements.

The artificial tooth replacement may not match up to your natural teeth, but it surely comes close. The artificial tooth replaces the entire tooth; several components are placed to ensure that the tooth is functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The dental implant has three distinct components:

• The dental implant –is the titanium or zirconia rod that is root-sized and is surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace the root
• The abutment – is the component that acts as a connector or a link that connects the upper part of the implant to the lower part of the crown
• The tooth replacement – this is the visible part of the artificial tooth and is usually a denture, bridge, or implant-supported crown

The tooth replacement (crown) is attached to the abutment using oral cement or screws. Each method has its benefits, uses, and drawbacks. Let’s check out each method and find out which one is better.

Attaching the Tooth Crown With Dental Cement

Our dentist may choose to attach the crown to the abutment with oral cement. Oral cement is tooth-colored and commonly used to replace front teeth. The purpose of using oral cement on the front teeth is that they are aesthetically pleasing.

When dental cement is used to attach to the front teeth, no discoloration will occur, which is the case with screw-retained crowns.

Drawbacks of Using Oral Cement to Attach a Tooth Crown

Any tooth restoration that is held using oral cement is expected to last for a long time since it is not meant to be removed. The problem is that the crown will need some maintenance at some point. The maintenance would involve detaching the crown, which would be challenging since it is attached to an implant.

Removing it is difficult and would mean that our dentist has to break the crown to remove it. So, you will most likely have to get another crown. So, when you go for this option, remember that maintenance is always a nightmare.

Screw-Retained Dental Crown

On the other hand, you can choose to go for the crowns that are directly screwed onto the abutment. Regarding longevity, ease of repair, and use, screw-retained dental crowns are much better.

Our dentist will have a much easier time during repairs since removing the crown is simply unscrewing it. Another benefit of screw-retained dental crowns is that when your neighboring teeth fall out, our dentist can remove the crown and replace it with one that can anchor the bridge.

Drawbacks of Screw-Retained Crowns

Most people may shun using screw-retained crowns since they can be unsightly, especially if they are used in front teeth. The screw-retained restorations can only be an option where the screw access holes are not conspicuous. These might include the biting surfaces of your back teeth.

We Are Here for You

The option that you will go for will depend on your situation and preferences. But we will offer expert advice so that you can know each of their benefits and drawbacks.

You can contact our dentist at Colonia Dental Associates, LLC, to schedule an appointment.

From infancy till teenager, all kids must schedule a visit to the pediatric dentist regularly. These are the years when they need the most help to keep their teeth healthy and strong. Pediatric dental experts have the skills and knowledge to educate children on maintaining perfect dental hygiene and offer a positive dental experience.

Our pediatric dentists are experts in pediatric Dentistry in Colonia, NJ, and can work well with special needs children. These specialists help your kid get a dazzling smile till they are ready to go to a general dentist. The first meeting with a pediatric dentist usually lasts from half an hour to one hour. It typically depends on the age and the stage of tooth development of your little one. Read below to know the importance of pediatric dentistry.

Reasons to Take Your Kid to a Kid Specialist

Here is why you should book your kid’s appointment with the pediatric dentist:

Trained Specialists

The oral structure of children is different from adults. Pediatric dentists are kid experts that have done regular training and additional two or three years of special training in pediatric dental health to treat kids of all types.

These professionals know what to do – no matter it’s the development of primary teeth or wisdom teeth. So whether your little one is a chatterbox or super shy, the specialist knows how to handle every personality that enters the doors.

Knows How the Teeth of Children Function

The oral system of the kid undergoes huge and fast changes as they develop. As you know, baby teeth play a crucial role in the success of permanent teeth. So, taking proper care of primary teeth is essential.

Pediatric professionals understand the pharmacology and psychology of children well. Teeth straightening and other treatments function well during the developmental stages of teeth of your kid. A pediatric dentist will identify and address the issues associated with the child’s teeth before it turns serious.

Provide Specialized Treatment

Most children fear dental procedures or have a bad experience. It creates negative feelings associated with their dental health. Pediatric dentists are aware of whether an anomaly in the kid’s mouth is a matter of concern or not.

They track teeth as they grow in and help to find issues at the earliest that might need the help of an orthodontist. The staff at Colonia Dental Associates knows how the kids react when sitting in the dental chair and how to turn a child visit into the best experience.

Create a Fun and Pleasing Environment

The professionals at the pediatric dental practices are proud to specialize in pediatric dentistry. They appear more like amusement centers. The offices are built in a way that can make them feel at home. Most walls have cute colorful designs. Few offices even have TV videogames, toys, and other fun things in the play areas to impress children.

Use Child-friendly Tools

Baby teeth can also get cavities. A pediatric dentist is well trained  and experienced to work on small teeth. He/she uses dental tools designed specifically to meet the dental needs of children in a kid-friendly environment.

These equipment are the appropriate size for the jaw and mouth of the child and ensure the dental treatment is comfortable and painless. A few pediatric dentists also offer kid-friendly prizes at the end of each visit to increase confidence.

Educate Parents About their Kid’s Teeth

Worried about your thumb sucking, pacifier use, or bottle feeding of your kid? Visiting a pediatric dental office can help to kick them away. Most young kids also fail to brush or floss on their own properly.

Pediatric dentists help parents teach their children how to build early oral health habits that stay a lifetime. They also provide excellent tips and even advise specialized products that help to maintain healthy teeth.

Focus on Preventive Services

As per the American Dental Association, bacterial infections in the mouth are one of the primary reasons for tooth decay. Pediatric dentistry near you focuses on preventive dental care that includes mouth cleaning, fluoride treatments, diet and nutrition recommendations, and much more.

Pediatric dentists help to find, evaluate, prevent and address various dental health conditions in children before it’s too late. Even if your child is diagnosed with autism or ADHD, trusting a pediatric dentist is a wise decision.

When you have sleep apnea, your breathing may stop and this is characterized by loud snoring and feeling drowsy after a full night’s sleep. This results from the blockage of airways that restricts air from getting to the lungs. This is why you will gasp for air or snore loudly to allow more air in the lungs.

Research has shown that many patients with this sleeping condition don’t know they have it. Therefore, it is imperative to look for sleep apnea treatment in Colonia, NJ, if you experience sleep apnea symptoms. On top of that, sleep apnea has been linked to cardiovascular problems. This article will give you all the needed information about the association of sleep apnea with heart conditions.

What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

There are various types of sleep apnea, and the symptoms of central and obstructive sleep apnea overlap, making it challenging to know which type you are suffering from. This is why visiting the dentist in Colonia, NJ, is imperative, as they will be able to diagnose which type you are suffering from.

Here are the most common symptoms linked to sleep apnea. Snoring is one common symptom of sleep apnea. On top of that, you will experience moments where you stop breathing while sleeping; most of the time, another person will tell you when this happens. Gasping for air during sleeping is also associated with sleep apnea. All the symptoms above are all results of the blockage of the airways.

Insomnia is another symptom of sleep apnea. This is because most of the time, the recurrent blockage of airways will make you wake up to gasp for air, which will make you have a disrupted sleeping pattern.

The disrupted sleeping pattern will have an impact on your daily activities. You will be feeling sleepy most times of the day. This is known as hypersomnia. Besides that, you will be struggling to pay attention while awake. This is because of the cumulative sleep you have.

What Are the Complications of Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea can have serious effects if it is not treated.

There are heart conditions that are linked to progressive sleep apnea. This is because of the sudden drop in oxygen levels in your blood during the night. Obstructive sleep apnea is usually linked to straining the cardiovascular system. What’s more, the condition increases the risk of hypertension, and this is due to the lack of enough oxygen in your blood.

Daytime fatigue is linked to sleep apnea. There are long-term effects of getting inadequate sleep. Due to fatigue, you will become irritable and unproductive during the day as your body is exhausted due to repeated awakenings. Operating machinery when you’re sleep deprived is not recommended. This is because you are drowsy, and workplace accidents are inevitable.

For children who have this condition, there can be behavioral changes as they can perform poorly academic-wise and become depressed or moody.

It becomes difficult to undergo surgery or under general anesthesia with sleep apnea. This is because people with the condition have breathing problems, especially when sedated, so it is important to notify the doctor before surgery.

Sleep Apnea’s Effects on the Cardiovascular System

The effects of sleep apnea do affect not only the heart but also the entire cardiovascular system. The cardiac problems associated with sleep apnea include irregular heartbeat, stroke, heart failure, and coronary heart disease.

Research is still being conducted to know how sleep apnea worsens cardiac problems, but scientists believe the reduced bloody oxygen levels worsen heart diseases.

When To See a Doctor

There are detrimental effects of untreated sleep apnea. Therefore, it is important to reach out to our dentists in Colonia Dental Associates so that they can reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea and help you have a good night sleep.

If you experience chronic headaches every time you wake up, it might be time to visit the dentist nearby. Sleep apnea can make it challenging to concentrate on your daily activities. This is where looking for medical services is important in ensuring you are back to normal and productive in your occupation.

Decreased libido can also be caused by progressive sleep apnea. You should see a doctor as soon as possible as they will help treat sexual dysfunction.