Do Wisdom Teeth Need to be Extracted? Ask an Apex Oral Surgeon

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We have found that while many of our patients with wisdom teeth know that they should be extracted, very few of them understand why.

So here you go…A Little Wisdom about Wisdom Teeth.

There are several reasons your Apex Dentist might recommend having your third molars, also known as Wisdom teeth, extracted.   Very few people have adequate space in their dental arch for wisdom teeth.  If you are one of the lucky ones that does have enough room, be sure your toothbrush is reaching all the way back to those teeth, as they are often very difficult to keep clean.  If/when 3rd molars develop cavities (as they often do), it is usually better to put financial resources towards having these teeth extracted rather than filled as they usually only cause more problems down the road.

dental-arch

For patients who do not have enough room in their dental arch, the 3rd molars are often unable to properly erupt, making it difficult or even impossible to keep clean.  The improper eruption can cause a variety of problems including but not limited to, periodontal infections, dental decay, and dental abcesses.

The first radiograph was of a patient for whom Dr. Hansen had to perform an extraction not only the partially erupted  wisdom tooth but the 2nd (more important) molar as well due to the decay caused by the wisdom tooth.

radiograph

The second radiograph demonstrates another reason that 3rd molars often need to be extracted:  dental abcesses.  This particular abcess was so large that this patient was a risk of her lower jaw breaking. The radiograph also demonstrates the importance of routine dental check ups, as this patient did not have any pain associated with the dental abcess.   She literally would not have ever known that it was there except that she was consistent with her dental examinations, including dental radiographs.

Understanding dental problems that can arise from  wisdom teeth is important so patients are able to take necessary steps to seek treatment. Typically, your Apex dentist will recommend having wisdom extracted between ages 15 and 25 because healing and recovery is much easier for younger patients.

If only our wisdom teeth made us all-knowing and wise…that would make for a good case in keeping them!

Everything You Need to Know About Dental Sealants from a Family Dentist in Apex

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What is a sealant?  

A sealant is a tooth-colored resin material that is placed on chewing surfaces of teeth to help them stay cavity-free.

crack

Why do teeth need sealants?

Molar and premolar teeth often have very deep pits and fissures.  While bacteria can easily enters these groves, toothbrush bristles are often too large and therefore ineffective.  As a result, these areas become the perfect breeding ground for bacteria to multiply which can lead to dental decay. A sealant does just what its name suggests…it seals off the grooves so that bacteria can’t enter.  After a sealant is placed these areas can no longer harbor bacteria and your tooth brushing once again becomes effective.

tooth-groove

What teeth need sealants? 

Any teeth that have deep groves or pits can benefit from sealants.  These are most often found on molar and premolar (teeth right in front of the molars) permanent teeth, but varies from one individual to another.  One person might benefit from sealants on all molars and premolars (16 teeth), while another may only need their molars (8 teeth) sealed.

Once a tooth has a dental filling in it, it no longer benefits from a sealant.

People often think that only children benefit from sealants.  That is because sealants are typically placed on a child’s molars when they first erupt.  The reality is that any teeth with deep pits and fissures (that do not already have fillings) can benefit from sealants because they  will help prevent future cavities.

How is a sealant applied?

No tooth structure is removed in order to place a sealant.  Instead it is kind of like painting your fingernails: resin material is only added, nothing is taken away.  The tooth is thoroughly cleaned with a pumice and etch.  The tooth is then washed thoroughly. Finally, the sealant material is applied and then cured with a light in order to harden it.

before-after-sealantHow long do sealants lasts?

Sealants typically last two to five years.  Although, it is not uncommon to see sealants in adults that were placed in childhood and are still intact.

Avoiding sticky, chewy, and hard foods can potentially prolong the life of a sealant.

If a sealant is no longer fully intact then it is no longer effective and should be replaced by your dentist.  If it has been less than two years since the sealant was placed, ask if your Apex family dentist offers a warranty for sealants.

Four Things to Consider When Choosing a Dentist in Apex NC

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Are you new in town or looking for a different dental experience?  There are many dentists to choose from in the Apex Cary area and so sometimes it can be overwhelming as you try to find a good fit for you and your family. It is important to choose a dentist who you feel you can trust. Look for a dentist who…

 1)  Is an Active Listener

You should feel like your dentist gives you a customized dental experience. Not a one size fits all appointment.  This can only be done if the dentist takes time to not only look in your mouth, but to listen to you.  The dentist might be an expert on what is going on in your mouth, but you are the expert on why.  What’s is going on in your life and how is that effecting your overall and dental health?  Are you a mom who is busy doing a fabulous job taking care of your children but tend to put yourself on the back burner?  Are you a bride preparing for your wedding and want the best smile of your life?  Did you just get your first job, have dental insurance for the first time since before college and want to get back on track? How do you feel about your smile?  If there is something you could change about your smile, what would it be?

Your dentist should be interested in you.  Not just your mouth.

2) Respects Your Time and Your Resources

A dentist should not keep you in the waiting room too long and should be punctual for appointments.  Scheduling coordinators should give you options for appointments that are convenient for you. If taking off work is difficult, find a dental office that offers appointments on Saturdays or late weekday hours.

 A dentist should also offer different billing options so that your financial resources can be optimized.  For example, hopefully they file your insurance, have financing options, and/or offer a cash discount if you are a cash paying patient.

3)  Educates You about all aspects of your appointment

The entire dental team should be good educators.

The dentist will educate you on all matters related to your oral health and how it effects your overall health and well being. This includes performing oral cancer screenings as a part of a head and neck exam.

The dental hygienist should educate you on what you can do daily to keep your teeth healthy and maintain your smile.

Insurance can get confusing.  What you will pay, what insurance will pay? Do you pay up front?  Or only the difference? The financial coordinator’s job is to help you understand all aspects of your financial arrangement.

4)  Stays Current with Technology and Continuing Education

 You wouldn’t use a phone from 15 years ago.  So why go to a dentist who does not stay up to date with current technology?  Advancements in technology in the dental field offer many of the same benefits as those outside the field.  More comfort, less time, better results. For example, same day CEREC crowns mean less wait time for patients. They also mean no annoying temporary crown while you wait for the permanent one to come back from the lab.

Continuing education allows dentists to stay current with technology and procedures.  It gives them an opportunity to brush up on procedures they are already comfortable with and expand their scope of practice.

Not sure what your dentist does to stay up to date?  Just ask!  If your dentist is already doing this, he/she would most likely love the opportunity to share this information with you!

 

Overall, just remember to trust your gut.  Taking some time to find a dental practice that meets your specific needs is worth the effort. Perhaps that means calling to ask for an office tour and to meet the dentist and staff before scheduling your first appointment.  Once you find the right fit, you will be glad you did!

Our Dentist in Apex Shares FAQs Regarding Dental Sealants

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What are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin coatings that are made out of plastic. They are placed over the teeth in order to prevent them from decaying. They help keep the food particles and germs out of the grooves of the teeth. Sealants are considered preventative dentistry.

Are Sealants 100 Percent Effective?

Some studies have shown that sealants can be 100 percent effective. The tooth will be protected as long as the sealant remains in place.

Can you see Sealants?

Sealants are clear and white. That is why they can only be seen up close.

How Long do the Sealants Last?

The sealants can potentially last for several years. In some cases, sealants can last over 10 years.

Are Sealants Expensive?

Sealants are affordable. Because they can prevent tooth decay, they can also help you save money on dental care. Your general dentist will discuss the cost of sealants.

Will my Teeth Look Different?

One may feel the sealants on their teeth. However, because the sealants are thin, they do not cause discomfort.

Who Needs Sealants?

The best candidates for sealants are children because their permanent teeth have just come in. However, older patients may also benefit from getting sealants. If your general dentist believes that you are at a higher risk for getting tooth decay, then you may need to get sealants.

Will I Still Need Fluoride Treatments?

Fluoride treatments are still needed. It helps strengthen your enamel and provides additional protection from tooth decay.

Why do I Need Sealants?

Decay can cause permanent damage to your teeth. Sealants help you save time and money by protecting your teeth. It is also important to remember that a filling is not an easy fix for a cavity. A tooth gets weaker every time that it is drilled.

If you are interested in getting sealants, then you will need to contact our dentist office.

The Need to Know Detail About Cosmetic Dentistry

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What is a cosmetic dentist?

A cosmetic dentist is one who improves the appearance of a smile. There are a number of ways to do this, ranging from simple bleaching to minor surgery. Many cosmetic dentistry techniques can certainly be performed at a local dentist office. The amount of time, discomfort, and expense involved depends upon the procedure.

Cosmetic surgery can be broken down into two types. The first type improves upon the natural appearance of the smile by changing the color or shape of the teeth. The second type improves the overall appearance of the smile by improving tooth and bite health. This may or may not affect the color or shape of the teeth.

Examples of the first type of cosmetic dentistry include:

  • whitening
  • bonding
  • veneers
  • crowns

Whitening

Teeth whitening is the simplest and least expensive of all the cosmetic procedures. It offers no oral health benefits. Whitening can be done at home, but a professional visit offers more rapid and uniform results. The whitening application has to be repeated in order to maintain a whiter smile. The frequency of this procedure depends on the patient’s tooth care habits and lifestyle.

Bonding

Dental bonding involves the application of a resin to teeth to fill gaps, cracks, and pits and give the smile a more uniform appearance. Bonding has the added benefit of preventing wear of teeth and exposing their roots. Bonding resin generally has to be reapplied every several years.

Veneers

Dental veneers are custom made plastic or porcelain shells that can change a tooth’s shape or color. This type of cosmetic dentistry generally requires a couple of visits. Depending on the material used and the habits of the patient, veneers can last anywhere from one to several decades.

Crowns

Dental crowns are used for everything from altering the color or shape of a tooth to protecting a broken one to connecting dental work. Materials used in making crowns range from porcelain to metal. Crown work generally takes several visits and is among the most expensive of cosmetic dental procedures.

Cosmetic surgery that improves bite health includes:

  • braces
  • bridges
  • implants

Using wiring and brackets, braces are used to reposition and realign teeth. They may remain on teeth anywhere from several months to several years. Bridges are artificial teeth. They are affixed to prepared teeth and are worn with a crown or crowns. Only a dentist can remove a bridge. Implants are also artificial teeth, but they can be affixed to dentures and removed. Both of these procedures are not inexpensive and require more than one visit to the dentist. But if bridges and implants are cared for properly, they can last a long time.

Other cosmetic dentistry procedures include correcting uneven gum lines and abnormally sized teeth, and fixing indentations to the jawbone. Because of all the options afforded with cosmetic surgery, individuals are advised to contact their local dentist office for information and help in perfecting and protecting their smile.

Is the Teeth Whitening Process Safe for Me and My Family?

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One question that you may have for your cosmetic dentist in Apex is whether or not teeth whitening is safe for you and your family members. You may be wondering if the components that the dentist uses for teeth whitening solutions are harmful. It is normal for a person to be concerned about a procedure that involves chemicals. However, you can rest assured that you will be able to undergo the whitening process and still have your health intact.

Why You May Want teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a very common procedure in the dental world. Millions of people have their teeth whitened, including celebrities. The procedure has a multitude of benefits to it such as the ability to boost self-confidence and encourage smiles of joy. The reason for teeth whitening varies, but one of the most common reasons is to eliminate tea, coffee and nicotine stains. The chemicals that the dentist uses for a teeth whitening procedure vary depending on the patient’s desire. The practitioner covers the options during the consultation.

Examples of Teeth Whitening Solutions
Your dentist can offer you at least two types of solutions. The at-home treatment is the less expensive solution. This solution includes a tray that the lab makes for you. You wear the tray over your teeth for a certain amount of time each night, and the peroxide mixture bleaches the teeth. The in-office treatment is a longer lasting procedure, but it also costs way more money than the other procedure costs. The dentist is likely to use a chemical that contains varies elements for the in-office procedure. The bleaching products that the dentist uses for either method most likely has the ADA seal of approval, which means that they are safe for you to use. Many of these concoctions contain only 10 percent carbon peroxide. Perhaps the harshest reaction you may have to the bleaching agents is tooth sensitivity or mouth irritation.

Feel free to schedule an appointment with our dentist and have a consultation about the teeth whitening procedures that interest you. Our office has been serving local residents for many years. We would love to help to meet your needs. Call on the phone or complete an online request.

Restore Your Dental Health with Bridges

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Bad teeth are not wanted by anyone. Poor dental health leads to a poor smile and poor self-esteem. It is not all about looks when you have trouble speaking and eating, too. No matter how bad your teeth are, get the missing ones fixed with the use of dental bridges. Bridgework is a major form of restorative dentistry that you should know about.

The Purpose of Bridges

First, know the main purpose of getting dental bridges in the first place. The bridges are prostheses that replace the large spaces caused by missing teeth. There are several reasons why people use this procedure:

  • Serious accidents that affect the teeth
    • Falls
    • Drug use
    • Poor hygiene
    • Medications

Some people knock out their teeth in car wrecks or serious falls. Other people just have bad eating habits that cause them to get tooth infections and lose their natural parts.

Drug use is another reason why people lose their teeth. Some drugs are worse than others at rotting out the teeth completely. Certain medications are not good for dental hygiene.

The false teeth are attached to metal bridges that are attached to your natural teeth. As a result, your own teeth become fuller, so your smile looks straighter and more attractive. The bridge procedure allows you to reshape your teeth and have an even line across.

The Procedure

You cannot complete a dental bridge procedure in a single day. You have to visit the dentist multiple times for checkups. It is a serious operation, so you need anesthesia within the mouth. After you come out of anesthesia, you should be able to continue your days as usual.

The Importance of Professionalism

Restorative dentistry is an important field similar to plastic surgery. Bridgework should only be practiced by an experienced dentist.

A good dentist has to analyze your teeth and the inside of your mouth and then find the best fitting prosthesis. In the end, if you work with a qualified professional, you get comfortable bridges that are attractive and long lasting.

Everyone has dental problems here and there, but some people get involved in accidents that require the use of bridges. You cannot use any kind of dentist to install your bridges. You need an experienced dentist to initiate the process and provide the most desirable results. You are encouraged to contact a qualified dental specialist at our office today.

One Stop Dental Needs with Our Apex Family Dentists

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A good family dentist is not only in their child’s life from infancy to adulthood but also can give great care to the kid’s grandparents. It is hard to find a dentist that has the skill level to treat all of the young, the adults, and the elderly in the family. Most dentists give excellent care to one age group but are lacking in other areas. A family wants a dentist that they can build trust with, to encounter no problems with, and to eliminate the wait time. The search is over with our Apex family dentists.

They provide general dentistry and expert care for the entire family and take care of all of the family needs. Most children despise going to the dentist. The local dental office provides a painless and comforting experience. Apex family dentists is a one stop destination for all of the family needs. Be on a first name basis with the staff and experience an extremely friendly atmosphere.

The family’s dentist appointments do not have to be a hassle anymore. Currently, many families are separated into general dentistry all over the city. Who would prefer that over the whole family with coordinated appointments in one day? No more working around everyone’s schedule to get every family member an appointment that works with them and each different dentist. The local dental office will provide everyone coordinated appointments with a fantastic experience.

Some parents even have to deal with the kicking and screaming of their children because they hate the dentist. They have to actually convince or bribe the child to go to the dentist. No parent wants that stress. Get rid of it with Apex family dentists. Their dentists have complete expert training making them a very professional practice and an irreplaceable family dentist. Make the family’s lives easier and their teeth healthier.

 

How to Choose the Right Dentist for your Child

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If you live in the Apex area and are looking for a general dentist office for your child’s dental care, you need to do some research. Choosing the right dentist for a child can seem like a daunting task. When choosing a dentist for your child, the safety and comfort of your child are top priorities.

It is important to make your child’s comfort the first consideration when deciding on a general dentist office. You need to look for a dentist that can provide reliable dental care for your child, from the child’s first visit through his or her adult years. A good family dentist in Apex will do everything possible to ensure your child’s maximum comfort during a dental visit. Using interactive play, advanced dental technology, and applying sedation dentistry whenever appropriate, a good dentist will work to make sure the child is relaxed during treatment. So, look for a child-friendly who has experience treating children and taking care of their oral health.

Children deserve attention and proper care during their development years. The right dentist understands how to work with children, and the dentist will provide various educational methods that incorporate play, to keep children well informed about their dental and oral care. A good family dentist in Apex will also involve parents when appropriate and provide them with the tools they need to continue helping their child develop excellent oral hygiene skills for optimal health.

Always check the qualification and background of the family dentist in Apex you are considering. It may be a good idea to have your personal dentist take care of your child’s oral care if you’re confident about the dentist. Otherwise, you may need to find someone else. You can also get recommendations from your relatives or friends. Let them know that you need a general dentist office for your child so they can recommend a dentist who specializes on child’s oral health. There are also Internet resources you can use to find qualified dentists in your town or city. Be sure to verify their background and certifications to find out about their credibility as dentists.

Apex Family Dentist Explains the Oral Health Issues Seniors Face

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Despite the fact that oral health is an important part of an older person’s well-being, it is often overlooked. Our family dentist in Apex knows that arthritis and neurological conditions can make it difficult for people to brush and floss their teeth. Below are some of the most common dental issues for seniors:

Cavities

Children are not the only ones who develop tooth decay. This condition is very common in people who are over the age of 65. It is estimated that 92 percent of people who are over the age of 65 have cavities. A person’s chance of developing cavities increases as he or she gets older because many people do not get annual dental exams.

This is why many cavities go untreated. It is important for older people to see a family dentist in Apex, so that cavities can be treated within a timely manner. Regular dental exams can also help prevent other dental issues for seniors.

Eating Problems

Cavities, poor-fitting dentures, missing teeth and gum disease can make it difficult for seniors to eat. Many seniors are forced to adjust their diet because of this problem.

Dry Mouth

The medical term for dry mouth is xerostomia. It is estimated that one out of five seniors suffer from dry mouth. Many seniors are on a several types of medications to treat chronic conditions. Muscle relaxers, antidepressants, blood pressure medications and antihistamines can cause dry mouth. Dentists recommend drinking plenty of fluids in order to combat dry mouth. You should also inform your dentist if you suspect that your medications are causing dry mouth.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is a condition where the gums are infected and inflamed. It can occur at any age, but it has a tendency to worsen as a person gets older. Many people do not have any pain during their early stages. However, people who have advanced gum disease may experience pain while they are chewing. They may also have sore gums.

Gum disease is typically brought on by poor oral hygiene. If plaque is not removed, then it will harden and form tartar. A professional cleaning is required to remove tartar. Periodontitis and gingivitis are the two forms of gum disease. Gingivitis causes the gums to bleed, swell and become red. Periodontitis causes the gums to separate from the teeth. Annual dental exams, flossing and brushing can prevent gum disease.

If you’re unsure how long it has been since visiting your local dentist office or you may have some dental or tooth pain, please get in touch with our Apex family dentist today for an appointment.