Tooth enamel is incredibly strong. In fact, it is the toughest material in the entire body. However, it can become damaged in various ways, including decay and trauma. The good news is that structurally compromised teeth can be built up and protected with a dental crown. This way, the tooth can survive for many years in the future. Here is what you can expect as you recover from getting your dental crown.

You might accurately predict that your dentist will recommend extracting a severely decayed or damaged tooth if it’s been causing pain or other issues. However, if you’ve found out you need one but don’t have cavities, it’s natural to question why it was suggested as a possible solution.

Your provider usually does everything possible to protect and preserve your natural teeth because it’s better for your dental health. That said, there are several circumstances in which a removal may be required, even without an associated toothache. Continue reading to learn about 3 of them!

Paying attention to your dental condition ensures you’ll spot changes that might point to more serious underlying concerns. For example, if your gums bleed or seem puffier than usual during your daily dental hygiene routine, you may have developed the earliest form of gum disease, gingivitis. Brushing and flossing more thoroughly can sometimes halt its progress, or prevent it from occurring in the first place.

However, soft, spongy gums can also result from another oral condition that may require professional intervention. Continue reading to learn what causes this symptom and what to do about it!

One of the first things people notice about you is the quality of your smile, and it’s only natural to want to make a positive first impression. However, if you’re self-conscious about one or several aesthetic flaws in your teeth, you might try to remain tight-lipped instead of engaging in conversation or social activities with others.

Your dentist can enhance your appearance and boost your confidence with various treatments, but it’s essential to be well-informed before undergoing elected procedures. Continue reading to learn 3 things to ask your provider before moving forward!

With Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and New Years right around the corner there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate in the coming weeks. Naturally, along with those big events there will be plenty of big meals too!  But if you wear dentures, you may not be able to enjoy the same foods you always did in seasons past. Don’t put your smile at risk this year: beware of these denture dangers that could damage your prosthetics!

If there’s not enough room in your mouth for your wisdom teeth, they can become impacted, meaning they get trapped under the gums. Not only can this be very painful, but if the wisdom teeth aren’t removed as promptly as possible, they could start causing additional oral health problems. Below are 4 examples of consequences you might experience if you don’t have your impacted wisdom teeth extracted.

If you’ve lost a tooth or two, a dental bridge is an effective solution to fill the gap. Bridges have been used for generations to treat tooth loss. They are made to withstand the test of time, but they don’t last forever. Traditional fixed dental bridges have a 90% success rate after 5 years. It’s not unusual for bridges to last for 10 years or more with the proper care, but many factors can influence their lifespan. Here’s how to ensure your bridge serves you for many years.

How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

Dental bridges are designed to last for a decade or longer, but several things can affect the duration of your results, like:

• Type of Bridge: The average lifespan of a traditional fixed bridge is about 10 years. An implant-supported solution can last for 30 years or more.
• Quality of Materials: High-quality materials tend to last longer than cheaper options.
• Length of Bridge: A dental bridge can replace 1 or more lost teeth in a row. However, most dentists recommend replacing no more than 3 teeth with a traditional bridge because longer restorations may not be as stable. 
• Diet Choices: Eating hard, crunchy, and chewy foods often can put additional wear and tear on your bridge, damaging it over time. Sugars and starches can lead to tooth decay, which can cause your bridge to fail.
• Oral Hygiene Habits: Poor brushing and flossing habits increase your risk of cavities, which can cause dental bridge failure.
• Lifestyle Habits: Certain lifestyle habits can also damage your bridge, like chewing on your fingernails, grinding your teeth, or smoking.

How to Get the Most from Your Bridge

You can ensure your dental bridge lasts for several years by committing to good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Floss your teeth every day. Schedule a cleaning and checkup with your dentist every 6 months. They’ll keep your mouth healthy and check your bridge at each appointment to ensure it is functioning as intended.

Eat nutritious foods that are limited in sugars and starches. Avoid any foods that are hard, chewy, or crunchy. If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, ask your dentist for a nightguard to protect your smile. Keep inedible objects out of your mouth, including your finger.

If you prefer a longer-lasting solution, ask your dentist about the benefits of adding dental implants to your bridge.

About Dr. Alan Rauchberg

Dr. Rauchberg has over 30 years of experience in dentistry. He earned his dental degree from the Temple University School of Dentistry and has pursued continuing education to provide the latest dental solutions, including tooth replacement methods. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the New Jersey Dental Association, and many other professional organizations. If you need a replacement bridge, request an appointment through his website or contact his office at (973) 233-4603.

When it comes to addressing tooth loss, dentures are a tried and tested way of restoring the appearance and function of smiles. You probably know that dentures have been around for a while, but do you know how dentures got started? This prosthetic is much older than you may expect. Continue reading to learn more about dentures and have they have evolved through the years to be what they are today.

Many people are surprised to learn that dental insurance coverage doesn’t always include dental implants. As a result, these patients put off their treatment, not knowing how to use their coverage to their advantage. Every year, cases like these lead to approximately $100 billion in unused dental benefits across the US! If you’re considering dental implants, continue reading. You’ll learn why it’s a good idea to understand what your insurance covers and how you can maximize your benefits before they expire.

People often form a first impression of you based on an initial meeting or an online profile photo, and if your teeth look more yellow than white, you’re less likely to make a positive impact. Although plenty of commercially available products claim to be able to lighten them, there’s no guarantee that you’ll achieve the desired results. To make matters worse, some patients also develop sensitivity from inaccurate applications or overexposure to bleaching agents.

Fortunately, your dentist can provide professional whitening services that can help! However, there are different types of dental discoloration, and not all of them can be treated topically. Read on to learn more about the types of stains and how they’re usually handled!