Town Square Dental Blog

For many Americans out there, the way our teeth look can have a direct effect on how confident we feel. If your smile includes broken, cracked, decayed, or weak tooth, your dentist may be able to fix the problem with dental crowns. In the following article we will discuss a few ways that dental crowns can repair your smile and self-confidence.

Know Your Crowns

Dental crowns are both a permanent fix and can also be a temporary fix if needed. The following list includes reasons as to why getting a crown can be beneficial to you:

• You have a cavity that is too large for a standard dental filling
• You need a dental bridge to replace a lost tooth or teeth
• You’re getting a dental implant – the crown fits over the implant post.
• You have a badly cracked or broken tooth
• You have had a root canal, and the restored tooth needs reinforcement and protection
• You have permanently stained or discolored teeth
• You are not happy with the shape of your teeth

A crown typically can cover a natural to tooth both fully and partially. Depending on the level of repair necessary crowns can also be placed over dental implant posts. Crowns are most usually made of porcelain, ceramic, gold and metal alloys, acrylics, and composite resins. Depending on where the crown itself will be placed, the functionality required, and your circumstances, this will determine which material your dentist will recommend for your crown.

Getting A Dental Crown

Dentist first prepare the tooth by removing any decay and reinforcing the remaining tooth with a filling material. The tooth is then shaped so that it can accept the crown, followed by your dentist taking an impression or mold of your bite. The mold instructions are then sent to a lab to make the permanent crown that will be placed in your mouth. Once the permanent crown is ready, your dentist then places the new crown over your tooth. Don’t worry if some adjustments may need to be made, after you and your dentist are satisfied, the crown will be cemented and bonded into place.

If dental crowns are something you would like to consult a dental professional about, the team here at Town Square Dental in Pasadena, TX, would love the opportunity to meet you and get to to treat you. Apart from cosmetic dentistry, we can be the well-round dental resources you need in your life to stay healthy and happy. Feel free to give our office a call or send us an email, today!

Many individuals are left with a bad feeling after hearing that they are in need of a root canal treatment. However, they are often needed for patients with an infected tooth. Our team at Town Square Dental is eager to provide a wide range of treatments performed by our experienced team. There are many misconceptions revolving root canal treatments and how they are performed. Continue reading on to learn five common myths about root canal treatments.

• Root canal treatment is painful. Prior to the procedure, your dentist will provide an effective form of anesthesia in order to eliminate any pain or discomfort felt during the procedure. Many people experience severe pain from their infected tooth, but the treatment helps to relieve any pain once felt.
• Root canal procedure requires many visits to your dental clinic. Root canal treatments can be completed in just one visit by many dentists. Some offices require up to three appointments. The condition of each individual patient will determine the duration of their treatment plan.
• A root canal “kills” the tooth. The purpose of a root canal treatment is to remove any signs of decay and bacteria from the inside of the tooth. This area is known as the pulp and contains the nerves and different chambers. The tooth is not killed, simply properly cleaned.
• Root canal procedure is not very successful. If the teeth surrounding the infected area are in good condition and the patient follows up with good oral hygiene habits, then the root canal procedure will be very successful.
• Root canal treatment causes illness. Root canals remove harmful bacterias that could travel to the rest of the body. The treatment also helps to prevent future infections from occurring.

Root canal treatments are meant to improve a patient’s oral health and provide them with lasting care by eliminating factors that could damage the rest of the body. If you have any more questions regarding root canal treatments, then contact our Town Square Dental office for further information. Call our local dental office today to set up your next appointment!

Many people may not know, but the average American consumes about 2 pounds of gum each year. There are many reasons someone might chew a piece of gum, whether habitual, to stay awake during a boring college lecture, or to freshen their breath throughout the day. Whatever the case may be, it is very important to understand how and why chewing gum can affect our dental health. Let’s take a look and see whether or not chewing gum is good or bad for our teeth.

For the most part, chewing gum is good for teeth. It all depends, however, on a series of factors that contribute to whether or not the particular gum you choose to chew is right for your teeth. Chewing gum can even help prevent tooth decay and produce more saliva. One of the most important tips in chewing gum is to choose a sugarless kind. At the same time though, chewing gum can damage your mouth if you decide to chew a stick that contains sugar. Chewing too much gum can also lead to wear and tear of your teeth and adversely affect your jaw.

Pros

Increases saliva flow:Increase saliva flow can help in rinsing out bacteria and food particles after eating. This can cut down on the possibility of tooth decay, and saliva also provides your teeth with nutrients they need to stay strong.

Beneficial to your health:Chewing gum can be honestly beneficial to your health only if chewing gum without any sugar in it.

Hardens enamel:Chewing gum can also work to harden your enamel as gun manufacturers are beginning to add a substance called casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP). This works to remineralize and harden tooth enamel.

Cons

Tooth decay: Sugary gums, as stated in the previous aspects of this article, can be a huge factor in causing tooth decay. Sugar coating between and on the teeth can slowly cause damage to the tooth enamel.

Jaw stress: By making gum chewing habit, you can cause great stress on your jaw by constantly making it overwork. This can lead to TMJ, a chronic and painful jaw disorder.

Stomach issues: The continuous showing of gum can also lead to increased levels of stress to your stomach and intestines. It’s important to allow a resting time for your food to digest after meals.

For more answers to what is good and bad for your dental health, give us at Town Square Dental in Pasadena, TX, a call. We would be more than happy to answer any dental related questions you may have.

Have you noticed that your gums appear to be receding? Suffer from chronic bad breath? You may be suffering from a common dental condition known as “periodontal disease”! In the early stages, periodontal disease is known as gingivitis. However, as it progresses it is known as periodontitis. At Town Square Dental we are proud to offer periodontal treatment in Pasadena, TX for those interested in addressing their gingivitis or periodontitis.

Periodontal Disease Causes

Wondering what might increase your chances of periodontal disease?

• Tobacco Use
• Hormonal Changes
• Certain Diseases
• Certain Medications
• Poor Dental Hygiene
• Genetics

We recommend scheduling routine professional care with your dentist in Pasadena. Routine visits with your dentist can reduce plaque formation, bacterial overgrowth, cavity formation and even periodontal disease.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the first and only curable stage of periodontal disease. Typically patients will experience minor symptoms, including:

• Red Gums
• Swollen Gums
• Bleeding Gums
• Infected Gums
• Receding Gums
• Bad Breath
• Pus

Many patients, however, don’t notice symptoms until the disease has progressed, scheduling routine visits with your periodontist in Pasadena, TX can help reduce your risk for developing gingivitis. When caught early, gingivitis can be completely reversed and cured.

What is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis are the more advanced forms of periodontal disease, once the condition has advanced it is no longer curable or reversible. During these stages of periodontal disease, the bone and supporting structures in the mouth become damaged. Patients will typically begin to experience more severe symptom formation such as:

• Gum Pockets
• Loose Teeth
• Shifting Teeth
• Misaligned Teeth
• Missing Teeth

Schedule Your Periodontal Treatment in Pasadena, TX

At Town Square Dental we are proud to offer periodontal cleanings along with scaling & root planing for the treatment of periodontal gum disease. Periodontal treatment aims to reduce bacteria and lessen symptoms. Contact us today to schedule your periodontal therapy in Pasadena, TX. We are always accepting new patients and would be happy to help manage your condition.

There are many different ways to improve the health and appearance of your smile. Our Town Square Dental office provides fluoride treatments that help to protect smiles. Continue reading to learn more about this treatment and see how it can improve your oral health.

What is a fluoride treatment?

Fluoride is a natural mineral that is found in many foods and water. It works to fight against tooth decay and and protects the enamel of teeth. A higher dosage of fluoride is found in treatments at dental offices and are an essential way to improve smiles.

Different Types of Fluoride Treatments

Different fluoride treatments include topical and oral treatments. Topical treatments are provided in the form of gels, sprays, foams, or varnishes. Oral treatments are provided in the form of supplements in liquids, capsules, and tablets.

Fluoride treatments help individuals of all ages. They are beneficial for children as they assist in strengthening the development of teeth. It also helps to prevent demineralization as the teeth develop and fights against tooth decay. Fluoride treatments are also helpful for adults as they prevent tooth decay and demineralization of the teeth.

When Do You Need Fluoride Treatments?

Fluoride treatments are perfect for anyone looking to strengthen their teeth against tooth decay. Many individuals are at a higher risk of tooth decay including those affected by the following dental issues:

• Dry Mouth. Fluoride treatments are recommended due to the absence of saliva increases. This increases the risk of demineralization and tooth decay.
• Gum Recession. Gum recession shows more of the individual tooth which puts them at an increased risk of other oral health issues.
• Frequent Cavities. Fluoride treatments are an extra step in avoiding cavities. If you are affected by frequent cavities, then talk to your dentist about fluoride treatments!

For many of our patients, the difference between digital X-rays and film x-rays may not even be noticeable. Overtime Dentistry has come a long way in making great advancements in dental care. One of the most significant advances in dental care is the use of digital x-ray imaging machines.

Dental X-rays are so important as they allow the dentist and orthodontist to find and diagnose cavities, bone loss, and other issues that may be affecting the patient’s teeth or oral health. At Town Square Dental, we believe in growing and evolving with technology. With this in mind our Pasadena, TX, office would welcome any new patients to come and see for themselves. For now, let’s take a look as to why digital x-rays are much better than film radiation.

Dental Digital X-Rays Are Safer with Less Radiation

Digital x-ray machine systems now use up to 70% less radiation than conventional film radiation. Because these require a much less level of radiation than traditional x-rays, that means that less exposure is being sent to our patients and a much safer experience for both the patient and dental professionals as seen in the office.

Faster X-Ray Images

Digital x-ray film is available for viewing as soon as the images taken, is it does not have to be developed like old film x-rays.

Clearer, Higher Quality Images

With the former way of taking x-rays, a dental radiologist needed to take several x-rays from different angles in order to create a composite image of the patient’s teeth. The final images were not as clear, as they offered only up to 25 shades of grey. Now the image is clear as digital x-rays can use up to 256 shades of grey. This allows for much greater detail and can be used on a computer to be enhanced and revealed with more information

If you’re interested in learning more about our office in the services we offer, feel free to give our Pasadena, TX, office a call or send us an email to set up a consultation appointment.

Unfortunately, sleep apnea in children is more common than many might think. It can greatly impact a child’s school life and daily activities. Similar to sleep apnea in adults, there are treatments for children. How does sleep apnea and obstructive sleep apnea manifest itself in children? What are some of the symptoms? Continue reading on to find the answers to these questions.

Physical symptoms include long pauses in breathing during sleep, loud snoring, excessive nighttime sweating, sleepiness in the day, headaches, and bedwetting.

Behavior/learning symptoms include moodiness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and hyperactivity. Other consequences of OSA and sleep apnea may include insufficient growth hormones that affect development, the bodies way of using insulin, and a higher risk of developing lung and heart problems.

Which children are at risk of developing sleep apnea?

Children with enlarged tonsils or adenoids, those exposed to tobacco smoke, children with less muscle tone, obese children, and those with a genetic predisposition have an increased risk of developing sleep apnea.

How is sleep apnea or obstructive sleep apnea diagnosed in children?

Children need to undergo a sleep study to fully diagnose sleep apnea or OSA. This involves taping several sensors to the child’s body during their sleep to collect information. During the sleep study, the technician or doctor may monitor the following heart rate, brain waves, breathing, blood oxygen levels, sleep positions, and snoring.

How is sleep apnea and OSA treated in children?

Determining a treatment plan will first require figuring out what is causing the sleep apnea or OSA. It may require an appointment with an ENT specialist. A CPAP machine can also be beneficial or a change in diet and exercise. Contact Town Square Dental for more help with sleep apnea and OSA treatments.

Is Sleep Apnea a “Man’s Disease”?

Many may think that sleep apnea only affects men, but thanks to extensive research we now know that that is not the case. We now know that for every two or three men, one woman is also affected by sleep apnea. It is important that we understand this statistic as in as many as 90% of women, sleep apnea can remain undiagnosed throughout their lifetime. Sleep apnea typically manifests itself through different symptoms, so this can prove to be more difficult and reaching a proper diagnosis.

Why are Women Diagnosed Less with Sleep Apnea?

Most commonly, sleep apnea and women can sometimes be mistaken for depression, anemia, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism. Because the symptoms are so subtle, women are frequently misdiagnosed and are less likely to snore. Some of the most common symptoms women experience with sleep apnea include:

• Daytime sleepiness despite a good night’s rest
• Waking up with dry mouth
• Waking up gasping or coughing
• Morning headaches
• Racing heartbeat

As indicated above a lot of these symptoms can be associated with different illnesses or diseases, so it is important to ask your dentist or your general physician more about sleep apnea, especially if you’re a woman.

Risk Factors

Sleep apnea and women can become more common around menopause, but there are other influences as well. Some of these influencers, that most of which are hereditary include:

• The use of alcohol or sleeping pills
• Narrow Airway passages
• Pregnancy
• Nasal congestion
• Smoking

If you have more questions concerning sleep apnea and would like to talk to a dental professional, feel free to give our Office in Pasadena, TX, a call or send us an email. We at Town Square Dental would love to hear from you and help you on your journey to becoming the healthiest you ever!

Thanks to the many advances in Health Sciences today, people are living longer than ever. With all of these added years to your lifespan, your teeth are enduring many extra years of damage. Over the years, your mouth will accumulate numerous problems.

Your dentist has many options to restore your smile. This includes dental implants, veneers, Dental bonding, and much more. However, the time may come when it is time to throw in the towel so to speak and get some dentures.

But how do you know when is the right time? First, let’s go over some of the different types of dentures.

Types of Dentures Available

Just because the condition of your mouth has reached severe levels, this may not mean that you need a complete set of dentures. Depending on your situation, you may choose between two types of dentures.

Partial dentures fit around existing teeth, and replace teeth that have either falling out or were extracted that were beyond repair. This type of denture is perfect for people who do not need a full extraction.

Your other option are full dentures. These are used when you need to replace the teeth from a full upper or lower arch.

Not Your Grandparent’s Dentures

If you are apprehensive about getting dentures, it may be because you have heard negative stories about dentures from somebody who is unhappy with their own dentures. Rest assured, though, dentures today are not your grandparent’s dentures. Dental technology has come a long way in the last few decades. Dentists now use cutting-edge technology to make sure that your dentures fit better than ever and have the feel of real teeth.

There is no need to worry whether or not your dentures will look fake. the advances in dental technology allows us to accurately create a denture that will fit perfectly and look and feel real to you.

If you have any other questions regarding partial or full dentures please give us a call today.

When you first get your retainer, it might be a foreign concept to keep something extra with you all the time and keep it in your mouth almost 24 hours a day at first. You are used to constantly checking your pockets for your keys, wallet, and phone, but now you have another item possibly, your retainer case!

So how do you go about caring for your retainer correctly? How can you be sure to not lose or damage it? Your dentist may have told you that your retainer is an expensive piece of equipment, so it is best to care for it properly.

The Different Types of Retainers

There are two main types of retainers. The first one is the one you are most familiar with. You put it in your mouth, and you take it out when you need to eat, then you slap it right back in! This type of retainer is referred to as a removable retainer. It requires that you keep good track of it, clean it properly, and never eat while it is in.

The second type of retainer is the permanent retainer. This retainer is usually installed permanently behind your teeth to keep them straight. You can eat with it and you can’t remove it.

Retainer Advice

Here are some basic tips for caring for your removable retainer, as the list is a little longer when compared to a permanent one.

• Always carry your retainer case
• Do not put your retainer in your pocket or purse, you don’t want it to be damaged
• Never wrap your retainer in a napkin. We know it is easy to do while you are eating so you don’t have to look at it, but your case can accomplish the same thing and there is a far lower chance that you forget about it and mistake it for trash and throw it away.
• Keep your retainer clean. Never soak it overnight with mouthwash, though, or it could become discolored!

We hope these simple tips help you with your retainer care. If you have any more questions feel free to give us a call today!