Teeth whitening is an incredibly popular way to brighten one’s smile. In fact, 37 million Americans used to give their pearly whites an upgrade in the year 2020. From toothpaste to gels to strips, there is a range of different over-the-counter products available at grocery and drug stores. Though some of them are effective at removing stains, they may harm your smile if used incorrectly. Read on to learn why teeth whitening and cavities don’t mix
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Teeth Whitening and Cavities: A Dangerous Combination
February 11, 2022
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How Long Does It Take to Get Dentures?
December 4, 2021
When your oral health situation needs help, sometimes dentures can be just what the dentist ordered. If you lost all your natural teeth, they could restore your smile, fill out the appearance of your face and profile, plus allow you to eat and speak much better than you can without teeth.
If they sound like a good option, you might be wondering how long the process will take from your consultation until you have the dentures in hand. Keep reading to understand the timeline for getting dentures in New Braunfels.
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How Much Do Dentures Cost?
November 5, 2021
1. Consultation and Preparatory Procedures
Most people who have good oral and general health are candidates for dentures, but you’ll still need a consultation with your dentist. Besides examining your smile, they may also take images and impressions of your mouth. After determining if dentures are right for you, they’ll create a personalized strategy to revamp your smile.
Besides the consultation fees, it’s common for patients to need a little prep-work before getting dentures, like periodontal therapy or tooth extractions. Although it can increase the amount you pay, preparatory treatments are crucial to the success of your investment.
2. Type of Denture and Materials
You have more choices than ever to replace your lost teeth. As an alternative to traditional dentures, many patients are choosing the reliability of dental implants. The type of denture you pick will affect the amount you’ll pay.
You also have several materials to choose from, each with various price ranges. Although you’ll find discounted materials, they’ll cost you more down the road. It’s better to pay more upfront for a high-quality prosthetic that will serve you for many years.
3. Dental Insurance Coverage
You may be envisioning the dollar signs adding up, but you also have multiple options to reduce the cost of dentures, like using your dental insurance. Every policy differs, but most plans can be used to offset the fees for certain steps in your treatment plan, like the consultation, preparatory procedures, or restorations.
After meeting your deductible, your dental insurance may cover up to 80% of the cost of certain treatments until reaching your annual limit. Your dentist will work on your behalf with your insurance company to maximize your benefits, so you’ll pay less out-of-pocket.
Invest in a Complete Smile
Your dental office will strive to provide the financial solutions you need to rehabilitate your smile. They’ll review all your options to make the best decision for your oral health and wallet.
About Dr. David Earnest
Dr. Earnest earned his dental degree from the University of Texas before continuing his education in advanced services, like dental implants. He is a member of various professional organizations, including the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Earnest works with many dental insurance plans to keep a healthy smile within everyone’s budget. If you’re ready to treat your tooth loss, contact our office today to schedule your denture consultation.
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5 Frightening Facts About Your Smile
October 9, 2021
1. Tooth decay is a chronic condition.
Although it’s preventable, 92% of adults have had at least one cavity in a permanent tooth. If you’re not experiencing any pain or sensitivity, you might assume your teeth are healthy, but 1 in 5 adults have untreated tooth decay. Cavities can be found early by visiting your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. You can safeguard your smile from cavity-causing bacteria at home by brushing, flossing, and limiting your sugar consumption.
2. Gum disease causes tooth loss.
Gum disease is a preventable infection caused by bacteria found in plaque and tartar buildup. The earliest stage, called gingivitis, causes red, swollen, and bleeding gums. It can be treated without causing long-term damage, but if it reaches advanced stages, you can lose your teeth. As the leading cause of tooth loss, you can preserve your natural smile by flossing at least once daily.
3. Your teeth may not last forever.
Your teeth are designed to last for a lifetime, but that doesn’t happen for many Americans. Despite the latest advancements in dentistry, 120 million adults have lost at least one tooth. 35 million Americans don’t have any teeth left in one or both arches. You can avoid the embarrassment and challenges of an incomplete smile by committing to your oral hygiene at home and visiting your dentist regularly.
4. Everyone is at risk of oral cancer.
Many people believe only smokers are at risk of oral cancer, but no one is immune to it. Although smoking and alcohol can increase your risk, over 54,000 people are diagnosed annually. Despite being common, it only has a 66% survival rate because of late detection. It is believed 80% of new oral cancer cases can be diagnosed early through routine dental care. Your dentist can perform an oral cancer screening during your regular cleaning and checkup.
5. 700 species of bacteria may be in your mouth.
If you cringe at the thought of a germy smile, some bacteria are crucial for your oral health. There must be a balance between good and bad bacteria to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Improving your oral hygiene habits is a quick way to neutralize harmful microorganisms hiding in your mouth.
It’s never too late to prioritize your smile. With a few simple changes, your mouth doesn’t have to be a scary place.
About Dr. David Earnest
Dr. Earnest earned his dental degree from the University of Texas before continuing his training in advanced procedures, like dental implants. He strives to build trusted relationships with each patient to put their minds at ease. Contact our office today to schedule a preventive appointment.
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5 Things You Should Know Before Receiving Laughing Gas
September 6, 2021
You need to visit your dentist for some routine work, but you’re a little apprehensive due to your dental anxiety. Thankfully, there is a way to get around it – by receiving sedation dentistry with nitrous oxide. Before receiving treatment, though, there are 5 facts you should be aware of. Continue reading to find out what they are!
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Am I a Good Candidate for Oral Conscious Sedation?
August 22, 2021
For many people, the mere thought of visiting a dentist can cause a great deal of anxiety. Then, if a more complex form of care is needed, the level of apprehension can escalate even more. Thankfully, there is a way to make a dental visit more relaxing – with oral conscious sedation. However, this form of treatment isn’t for everyone. Continue reading to find out if it’s right for you.
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Which Type of Denture Adhesive Should I be Using?
July 25, 2021
For denture wearers, there are numerous adhesives to choose from. With all the options, it can be quite difficult to determine which one is the best choice. You don’t have time to comb through product after product, so you need a guide to aid in making the right decision. Thankfully, there is help available. Continue reading to learn how to find a denture adhesive that’s just right for you!
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Before Your Dental Implant Surgery, be Sure to Do This
June 8, 2021
Having your teeth replaced with dental implants means that you’ll be able to experience life to the fullest. You’ll once again be able to eat several of the foods you previously had to give up and smile with confidence. Still, you have to get pass the most important part: the dental implant surgery. If you’re feeling a little nervous, it’s perfectly normal. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to make for a smooth process. Continue reading to learn more!
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Does It Hurt to Get Dental Implants?
May 15, 2021
Pain During Your Dental Implant Surgery
The first step to treating your tooth loss involves placing at least 1 dental implant into your jawbone to serve as a new root. The number of posts needed varies depending on the number of teeth you’re treating. Your gum tissue will be opened to gain access to your jaw, where are small hole will be strategically drilled into it to place your post. Afterward, your gums are sutured closed, and you’ll begin the healing process. Although the surgery is invasive, you won’t feel anything because anesthesia or sedation are used to ensure you’re comfortable. In some cases, you may not even remember your appointment.
Pain During Your Recovery
As with any surgical treatment, you can expect there to be some discomfort after the sedative or anesthesia wears off. Many patients report the pain to be less than what’s experienced after a tooth extraction. It is rare for patients to have significant discomfort during their recovery.
Your dentist will recommend taking any prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers as instructed to manage any discomfort while your mouth heals. You can also apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to decrease pain, swelling, and bruising. It’s best to stick to a soft diet to avoid pain or injury to the surgical sites. As your pain dissipates, you can resume your regular diet, but keep away from anything that’s overly hard or sticky. On average, it takes about 14 days for any soreness to completely resolve.
Pain After Your Recovery
Once your jawbone has fused to your implant posts through a process called osseointegration, and you’ve been fitted with your restoration, you shouldn’t experience any pain. Your dental implant should never hurt. If you develop any pain, swelling, or the implant feels loose, it can indicate a problem. You should contact your dentist right away to prevent dental implant failure.
Sit Back and Relax with Dental Implants
If the thought of pain during your dental implant surgery is giving you anxiety, discuss your concerns with your dentist. They’ll help calm your nerves, so you can sit back and relax while they rebuild a beautiful, functional smile.
About Dr. David Earnest
Dr. Earnest earned his dental degree at the University of Texas and has completed advanced training in implant dentistry. As a member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, he has the qualifications you can trust to treat your tooth loss. Contact our office today to see if dental implants are right for you.
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How Excellent Oral Health Supports Your Immune System
March 14, 2021
Over the past few decades, doctors and dentists have discovered a great deal of new information about how the human body works. This has led to a more integrative approach to health and wellness. As an example of the more evolved approach, dentists have found a connection between the quality of a person’s oral health and his or her immune function. As you continue reading, find out how taking proper care of your teeth and gums can result in better immune system protection.
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