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Showing posts from August, 2023

Tooth Extractions: What Happens After

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Imagine biting into a juicy apple and feeling a sharp sting in your tooth. Nobody wants that. This discomfort, my friends, could be due to several reasons - and sometimes, it necessitates a tooth extraction. Cavities: Often, these are the sneaky culprits. They start small, just tiny blips of decay. But when left unchecked, cavities can consume a substantial portion of the tooth, leaving extraction as the only option to prevent the spread of decay or infection. Infections: Here’s the deal - once an infection reaches the pulp (the innermost part of the tooth), it can be a real party pooper. If treatments like root canals don't work or aren't feasible, it's time for the tooth to go, ensuring the infection doesn't spread or worsen. Overcrowded Teeth: Ever felt like there's just no room to breathe in a crowded place? Your teeth can feel the same way. Sometimes, for orthodontic reasons, a tooth might need to be removed to give neighboring teeth the spa...

Dental Crowns: What Are They and Do You Need One?

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Welcome to Smile Science Dental Spa 's guide on dental crowns! If you've ever found yourself wondering what dental crowns are and whether you might need one, you're in the right place. Dental crowns play a vital role in dental care by protecting, restoring, and strengthening teeth that may be damaged or decayed. Under the expert care of Dr. Richard Dawson and Dr. John Turke here in Glendale, AZ, dental crowns can bring back the beauty and function of your smile. In this article, we'll explore what dental crowns are, why you might need one, and everything in between. Let's get started! What Are Dental Crowns? Dental crowns are essentially protective caps for your teeth . Perhaps you have a tooth that's chipped or worn down; a dental crown might be just what you need. They can be crafted from various materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, or gold. At Smile Science Dental Spa, we'll help you select the material that's best for your specif...

Afraid of the Dentist? Give Sedation Dentistry a Try

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Going to the dentist is an essential part of maintaining good oral health, yet for many, it's a task that's often filled with apprehension and fear. If you're one of those people who feel a sense of dread at the thought of sitting in the dentist's chair, sedation dentistry may be a game-changer for you. Sedation dentistry, as the term suggests, involves the use of sedatives during dental procedures to help patients relax and alleviate their fear and anxiety. It's a safe and effective solution that makes dental visits a less stressful experience . Sedation dentistry isn't just about 'putting you to sleep'; there are various levels of sedation to cater to different patient needs - from mild sedation where you remain fully awake but relaxed, to general anesthesia where you're completely unconscious. Sedation dentistry can be used for everything from invasive procedures to a simple tooth cleaning, depending on the intensity of the patient'...

Dental Sealants: An Extra Layer of Protection for Your Teeth

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Dental health is more than just about maintaining a bright, sparkling smile. It also involves taking preventive measures to guard your teeth against potential damage. One of these preventive measures gaining momentum in the field of dentistry is the application of dental sealants. Dental sealants are essentially an invisible shield for your teeth. They are a thin, protective coating that adheres to the surface of your back teeth - particularly the molars and premolars, which are notoriously difficult to clean thoroughly. The grooves and depressions on these teeth, known as pits and fissures, are the perfect hiding spots for food particles and plaque, making them hotspots for cavities. It's easy to miss these spots during brushing, even with meticulous oral hygiene. Dental sealants fill these pits and fissures, making the surface of the teeth smoother and easier to clean, and essentially shutting out the plaque and bacteria. As such, dental sealants act as a barrier, prev...

Baby Teeth: More Valuable Than Fairy Coins

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From the moment a child's first tooth peeks through, a new chapter begins in their development. Baby teeth, commonly called milk teeth or primary teeth, might seem insignificant due to their temporary nature. However, these tiny white pearls play a far bigger role than simply being placeholders for their permanent successors. It's quite a common misconception to think of baby teeth as less important because they're eventually going to fall out. After all, why fuss over something that isn't meant to last? Unfortunately, this way of thinking often leads to neglect and misunderstanding of the critical role baby teeth play in a child's overall health and development. This article aims to shed light on the invaluable functions and lifelong impact of baby teeth. The Purpose and Importance of Baby Teeth So, why are these temporary fixtures so important? Why should we give baby teeth the same attention and care as permanent ones? Here's why: Baby teet...