For many of us, the subject of cancer is an especially frightening topic. It seems that it’s a disease with no rhyme or reason, frequently occurring unexpectedly with fatal consequences. There is conflicting research as to what causes cancer and what can prevent it from developing, leaving us with feelings of hopelessness, fear, and uncertainty.
While it’s true that science has yet to fully understand this disease, the field of research continues to grow, and we now know one thing for sure: proactive oral cancer screening and early detection can save your life.
We know that most cancers develop in stages, the earliest being Stage One and the last being Stage Four. There is compelling evidence that shows the enormous benefits of detecting cancer in the first stage. There is a far greater chance that you will enjoy a complete recovery from oral cancer that is identified and treated in Stage One. When detected in the later stages, the survival rate drops significantly. That’s why there has been a renewed effort to promote routine oral cancer screening in the dental office.
While it’s true that science has yet to fully understand this disease, the field of research continues to grow, and we now know one thing for sure: proactive oral cancer screening and early detection can save your life.
During a visit to the dental office, your dentist will have a bird’s eye view of your mouth and throat. In particular, your dentist will have a clear view of areas that you may not be able to visualize on your own. This includes the sides of the tongue and the back of the throat. Additionally, a dental expert is most knowledgeable about what looks healthy and what does not. Bumps, lumps, red spots, and white lesions can be professionally evaluated, documented, and monitored as necessary. Occasionally, advanced cancer screening technology may be used to highlight areas that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye.
Cancer screening is generally a quick (a few minutes) examination of the soft oral tissues. It should not be confused with biopsies and other procedures which are used to diagnose cancer. Instead it is a tool that helps to screen for the signs and symptoms of cancer, promoting a further investigation as indicated.
When a simple checkup can make the difference between life and death, scheduling your appointment can be a life-saving decision. Call the dental office of Dr. Daniel C. Bush at 817-465-0355 for yours today.
While most people don’t visit their doctor unless they are ill, the same mentality often pervades their attitudes when it comes to dental health; many people elect not to have their regular check-up with their family dentist because they aren’t experiencing toothache, or bleeding gums, or sensitive teeth when their check-up falls due.
When we fall ill, it is often without warning. We might feel well one day, and fall ill the next; there’s no way to accurately predict when we’re likely to be sick, and the germs and bacteria that cause illnesses can be contracted regardless of how well we might look after ourselves.
However, maintaining dental health is different from maintaining physical health. Our teeth require regular cleaning with a good toothpaste, and allied with dental flossing and mouthwashes, we can help to preserve good levels of dental health.
But what happens in between brushings? Most people will brush their teeth when they first wake up, and again just before they go to bed. But very few people brush in between these times; this in turn allows plaque – a clear, sticky acidic substance – to form on our teeth, which attacks tooth enamel, leading to cavities.
While regular brushing helps to minimize the formation of plaque, the time plaque spends on our teeth between brushings can still accumulate; even though we might think there’s no problem as we brush regularly, and so remove plaque, there remains the opportunity for plaque to erode and weaken tooth enamel over time.
Regular visits to a family dentist – most dentists will recommend you visit at six monthly intervals – can help to detect any potential problems a patient might have, and allows the dentist to perform remedial action. They also provide an opportunity for the patient to discuss with their dentist any worries or concerns they might have about their dental health, or to seek help and advice about caring for their teeth and gums.
Regular dental examinations are a necessary part of maintaining good dental health, and so while you might not be experiencing any symptoms relating to your dental health currently, don’t be complacent in thinking there’s no problems formulating, even if you do brush and floss regularly!
Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure used by a dentist to treat a tooth that is damaged, or likely to become damaged – most often from tooth decay. Once tooth decay has penetrated into the tooth’s enamel, bacteria can begin to attack and kill the nerves and pulp of the tooth.
As a result of the attack, these nerve and pulp tissues begin to die, creating further bacteria, which in turn leads to infection and pain. The infection can lead to dental abscesses and can spread to other teeth via the tooth’s roots which connect the tooth to the gum tissue. The tooth’s pulp can also be damaged through other dental procedures, such as the placement of dental fillings.
A dentist performs root canal treatment in order to prevent the development of infection, or to remove the cause of infection when already present. An infection within a tooth can be intensely painful, and where a tooth has become infected, bacteria from the mouth can also enter into the patient’s bloodstream.
Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure used by a dentist to treat a tooth that is damaged, or likely to become damaged…
As a result, infection can then spread to other teeth, as well as other areas of the body. A dentist will often use antibiotics in conjunction with root canal therapy in order to treat any infection already present.
Root canal treatment involves the dentist removing the tooth’s nerves and pulp, and filling in the pulp chamber and channels which house the nerve ends. Once the dead or damaged tissue is removed, an antiseptic wash is used to help kill bacteria and infection in the tooth. The tooth is then filled with a rubbery substance called ‘gutta percha’, which also fills the pulp chamber and nerve channels.
The dentist will then place a permanent filling onto the tooth, but because the opening created by the dentist to access the insides of the tooth is typically large, the dentist may elect to place a dental crown over the affected tooth to conceal the hole, and effectively seal the hole from bacteria and preventing re-entry to the tooth.
Similarly, if the tooth structure is weakened considerably following treatment, then a dental crown may be used to help support the tooth and prevent damage or breakage from occurring.
For additional information, contact the office of Dr. Daniel C. Bush at 817-465-0355 today.
Teeth may need to be extracted for a variety of reasons. With the exception of third molars (wisdom teeth), most other teeth that are removed will be greatly missed. The option that restores the ability to eat all the foods you love, speak and smile with self-confidence is dental implants.
When one or more teeth are removed, the patient is faced with multiple concerns. Tooth loss results in bone atrophy that produces shrinking gum tissue. Remaining teeth will drift toward open spaces creating a malocclusion, a condition where the upper teeth are not properly aligned with the lower teeth.
But possibly the biggest concern comes from the change in appearance. Bone loss can alter the jaw resulting in a shriveled look, but missing teeth may have their biggest impact on your smile. Since a toothless smile generally connotes a negative impression, replacing teeth with some type of cosmetic enhancement is important to your self-esteem.
A consultation with your dentist to discuss dental implants may be the most important appointment you can keep. Dental implants offer the optimum solution for all issues emanating from tooth loss.
Aesthetics – Replacing one or several missing teeth will restore your smile with a natural, lifelike prosthetic that so closely matches surrounding teeth, you won’t be able to determine real from replacement teeth.
Bone loss – A dental implant is surgically placed in the gum tissue where a tooth is missing. The implant is designed to fuse to existing bone, and in many cases will actually enhance bone strength. While the implant is allowed to heal, this little piece of titanium will integrate into the jaw stopping bone loss from advancing.
Final restoration – The dentist will fabricate the final covering for one or more missing teeth. The color and shape are designed to coordinate with surrounding teeth, but more importantly when the restoration is cemented in place, a normal diet without restrictions can be resumed that was not possible with missing teeth. There is no slippage or danger of movement.
Caring for your implants requires the same vigilant attention you would provide your natural teeth. Flossing daily and brushing a minimum of twice per day coupled with visits with your dental provider every six months for a thorough cleaning and exam should provide a lifetime of comfortable eating, easy speaking and brilliant smiles.
Contact the office of Dr. Daniel C. Bush today for more information about dental implants.
Dental veneers are available via bonding with composite resin, or a more permanent solution utilizing porcelain tooth colored shells that are cemented to the front of teeth requiring repair.
Porcelain makes an ideal material for veneers for several reasons:
- Stain resistant – Porcelain is resilient to most food and beverages, but there are some consumables such as coffee, wine, tea, berries, etc. that contain powerful agents that discolor teeth. Your awareness to this possibility will be one of the cautions issued by your cosmetic dentist.
- Provides added strength to treated teeth – Veneers are placed on teeth that are stained, chipped, misshapen, worn down, and even to close unwanted gaps between teeth. When teeth are fortified with veneers, they have an added layer of strong material permanently cemented on to teeth that may have been previously weakened by wear & tear, medications, chips or poor shape.
- Aesthetics – Porcelain can be molded to provide the most natural appearance by matching the size, shape and color of surrounding teeth.
- Adaptability – Porcelain is well tolerated by gum tissue.
Just as porcelain resists stains, once veneers are placed they are not affected by teeth whitening, so if whiter teeth are desired the patient should undergo the whitening process at least a couple of weeks before initiating the veneer process. Many teeth whitening products do not reveal their final result immediately, so the wait time is advised to obtain the closest match.
Just as porcelain resists stains, once veneers are placed they are not affected by teeth whitening…
Your cosmetic dentist is trained to provide the most lifelike result, and will be able to make any needed adjustments on the day your veneers are delivered.
The teeth to be treated will have been thoroughly cleaned and enamel removed at the first prep appointment. Today the teeth will be etched with a special material to aid in holding the covers in place and a curing light or laser is used as an additional step to harden the cement.
Porcelain veneers are not invincible. Biting hard objects, chewing fingernails or using treated teeth to open packages can break or dislodge a veneer.
Doing so will require replacement, which can be costly and time consuming.
A little caution is the only special care needed for your new smile. Daily brushing and flossing along with keeping your scheduled hygiene and exam appointments will keep your veneers, teeth, and gum tissue healthy and bright. Contact our skilled and experienced team at 817-465-0355 to schedule an appointment for porcelain veneers today.
Anyone who engages in a physical activity that can put your mouth and teeth at risk should invest in a professionally fitted mouth guard. This pertains to the person who roller blades through the neighborhood to the athlete who plays hockey, football, or any contact sport. Your dental office is the best place to acquire a mouth guard for many reasons:
1. A custom fit will make the wearer more likely to use a mouth guard. The generic mouth guards proclaim that they can be customized to fit, but any mouth guard designed to fit hundreds of different mouth formations can’t be customized enough for you. Uncomfortable or bulky mouth guards won’t be worn.
2. Your dentist has your best interest at heart and will provide the ultimate in protection whether you are playing a contact sport or need a mouth guard to prevent grinding and clenching in your sleep. The ultimate fit will provide the maximum protection. And since mouth guards are available in different styles and material, a dental professional can design and fabricate the appropriate mouth guard for your needs.
A mouth guard is worn to protect the teeth, tongue, lips and soft tissue in and around the mouth. Making contact with anything hard like the ground, a helmet, a bat or the head of another individual (just to name a few) can have catastrophic results.
Teeth can be knocked out, the tongue can be severely injured, and teeth can cut the interior of the mouth or even be forced through the face. Wearing a mouth guard may prevent these injuries by safeguarding the teeth.
In addition, while wearing a mouth guard, the wearer is less likely to sustain injury to the jaw area as teeth are provided additional support in the event of contact.
Obtaining a mouth guard from the dentist is considered a good investment, and the proper care should be taken to maximize the life of your mouth guard.
1. Thoroughly rinse your mouth guard each time it is worn.
2. Wash with soap and water weekly.
3. Store in a protective case that allows for ventilation.
Take your mouth guard with you on each dental visit to be assured that the fit still offers the protection needed, and ask the skilled dental team of Dr. Daniel C. Bush to inspect it for worn or weak areas.
Visiting your dentist twice per year for a cleaning and exam; daily flossing and brushing; eating a healthy diet limiting sugary beverages and snacks … these habits will allow you to achieve and maintain excellent dental health.
Business trips, vacation, or those unexpected calls out of town happen to everyone at one time or another. Will you be prepared for a dental emergency if one occurs while away from home?
A chipped or broken tooth can happen at any time; a toothache can pop up almost in an instant; and when traveling with children you live day-to-day, hoping for the best.
In a strange town, what are your best options if the unexpected dental emergency occurs?
Business trips, vacation, or those unexpected calls out of town happen to everyone at one time or another. Will you be prepared for a dental emergency if one occurs while away from home?
1. If there are any family members or business associates in the area, seek them out for a reliable referral.
2. If you’re a total stranger to the area, contact your primary dentist at home. Many dentists network, and you may be able to obtain the name of someone who can help out in an emergency.
3. If this isn’t an option, the local Chamber of Commerce is a valuable asset to direct you to a qualified dental provider.
4. As a last resort, a visit to the local drug store to discuss your symptoms with the pharmacist may lead to relief. This may not be your best alternative, but often the pharmacist has a library of ideas that can tide you over until you can get into the dental office.
The saying that the best defense is a good offense comes to mind. If you keep your oral health in optimum condition, the likelihood of this type of emergency is kept to a minimum.
Your entire family should visit the dentist at least twice per year to get teeth cleaned, polished, x-rays as needed, and an exam to catch any problems before they have a chance to escalate.
Children, as well as adults, can benefit from fluoride treatments. Teeth that have not been previously treated for dental decay receive ultimate protection with dental sealants.
Being proactive when it comes to dental care may not eliminate all emergencies, but healthy teeth and gums are much more likely to get you through a week away from home. Brush and floss daily and visit the dentist twice per year for optimum results.
If you are planning a trip with your family, contact the office of Dr. Daniel C. Bush at 817-465-0355 to schedule a check-up today.
Halitosis is a condition known more commonly as bad breath. We all know how embarrassing this condition can be, but there are several things you can do to not only treat it, but prevent it from springing on you at the most unfortunate of times. By following the suggestions of your family dentist, halitosis can be a thing of the past.
Proper brushing is a surefire way to keep bad breath away. With a healthy mix of brushing and flossing regularly, you remove stray food particles and build-up that lead to halitosis. When brushing, be sure to brush your tongue as well; the tongue is where a lot bacteria and debris from food can collect.
Speaking of brushing, try to use toothpaste that contains antibacterial properties. Many of these properties are included specifically to battle the bacteria that lead to halitosis.
Try to steer away from foods that are obvious causes of bad breath. These might include, but are certainly not limited to: strong spices, onions, garlic, cabbage and strong blends of coffee. Avoiding cigarettes and other tobacco products will also help in the fight against halitosis.
Drink more water throughout the day. Drinking water keeps your mouth from getting dry—and a dry mouth is often a culprit for symptoms that cause halitosis.
While mouthwashes are great for temporarily combating bad breath, your dentist may recommend using a homemade rinse made of equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide for a brief time. The peroxide is great for killing off bacteria that cause bad breath. It is important to use only the diluted 3% solution and be careful not to swallow.
A little known trick to help prevent bad breath is to eat parsley after a meal. Parsley has a lot of chlorophyll which is a natural sort of breath freshener.
Certain sugar-free gums and mints are another temporary fix to bad breath, although some may be harmful to your teeth. If you have doubts, ask your family dentist which gums, candies, and mints are best.
Naturally, the best thing you can do to prevent bad breath and other oral health issues is to visit your dentist on a regular basis. Even if you have a severe case of halitosis, your dentist will be able to help you treat it promptly and effectively.
For more information and to schedule your appointment, contact our dedicated and skilled dental team today.
Over time, root canals have gotten something of a bad reputation. Most people assume them to be extremely painful, but that is actually not the case. Not only is the procedure not nearly as uncomfortable as most make it out to be, it also highly successful.
As a matter of fact, there is a success rate of more than 95% among patients that have received a root canal. Much of the success is due to the process itself, given that the majority of teeth that are repaired due to a root canal often last a lifetime.
Of course, much of a root canal’s success also depends on how cautious and responsible the patient is following the procedure.
It is also important to note that since the last step of the procedure deals with the application of a filling or crown, there is no tell-tale evidence that the patient has even undergone root canal treatment.
Of course, much of a root canal’s success also depends on how cautious and responsible the patient is following the procedure. While most patients will be able to return to normal activity within a day or so, there are still some precautions that should be taken. Your dentist will walk you through all of these before the procedure.
For instance, until the very last steps of the procedure and proper healing has been established, your dentist will likely recommend that you limit the amount of chewing to be done by the tooth or teeth that have been repaired for a brief period of time.
As is the case with any medical procedure, there can be complications from a root canal, although they are few and far between. These can lead to infections or recontamination of the repair site. In the event that retreatment is needed, it is typically just as successful as the original root canal.
To learn more about the procedure and what to expect, contact the office of Dr. Daniel Bush at 817-465-0355 and schedule your consultation today.
One of the most alluring physical traits a person can possess is a sparkling white smile. Sometimes, even for people that take great care of their teeth, additional help may be needed to keep their smile at its whitest. In many cases, people turn to the highly effective process of teeth whitening to keep the shine in their smile.
A question that is frequently asked when patients approach their cosmetic dentist on the topic of teeth whitening is if whitened teeth will retain their new color on a long term basis. While the teeth whitening process is indeed highly successful, the process is not permanent; there still remains a few basic oral hygiene habits all patients must upkeep in order to preserve their new bright smile. These include proper brushing methods and avoiding foods that can cause staining.
To get the best teeth whitening results, many cosmetic dentists are now offering a product called Ultradent. This advanced product uses gel and a whitening tray that is to be applied for one hour increments. Touch-up whitening may be administered as needed.
Keep in mind that the whitening process can take longer for some than it will for others. Patients with gray-colored teeth or tetracycline stains require a bit longer to see teeth whitening results. However, in working with a cosmetic dentist that suggests Ultradent, even these patients will have their once-bright smile restored.
No matter what state your teeth are in, the teeth whitening results will stay stronger if you care for your Ultradent materials properly. This involves removing and rinsing your trays thoroughly before placing them securely in their storage box. When you are done with the whitening process, make sure to brush and floss your teeth to get rid of any gel that might have been left behind.
One last thing to keep in mind in terms of teeth whitening is that if you are considering any other cosmetic procedures, you should always have your teeth bleached first for best results.
If you have any further question about teeth whitening, contact the office of Dr. Daniel Bush at 817-465-0355 to schedule your consultation.
