The Only Guide You Need Before Your Dental Implant Appointment

Losing teeth can be painful. It can happen during accidents, great falls, or advanced tooth decay for various reasons. To solve the results of the above issue, a new advancement has been made in all on 4 implants. This procedure is used when multiple teeth are lost. It is done to help the patient's mouth function normally. With the loss of teeth, even basic tasks like eating, chewing, and talking to someone are impacted.

To avoid all the above, the all-on-four method is a secured implant method. It is directly embedded in the jaw. To learn about this procedure, continue reading the blog.

Initial Consultation And Examination:

Initial Consultation & dental examination are crucial to know about teeth health. The dentist first checks the overall mouth to ensure the implants can be done safely. To have detailed knowledge about the teeth, they ask the patient to go through several tests like X-rays, thorough digital 3D scans, and review the medical history. 

The initial examination aims to gain in-depth knowledge about the patient. To avoid any complications, the dentist may also speak to the patient. They are trying to identify the cause and underlying issues of dental health. They guide the patient through the procedure to ease their curiosity or discomfort. 

Is All on 4 implant procedure different from Traditional Dental Procedure?

Traditional dental procedures were restrictive. Though they helped tremendously with oral health issues, the patient was restricted from eating certain food items. Sometimes, the denture adhesive would loosen and falls off in the middle of a conversation, causing embarrassment for the person. However, the worst outcome of it all was the gradual loss of bone density. 

Modern dental implants help with the above problems. When a tooth is in the jaw, the typical actions of the mouth, including chewing, put pressure on the bone. This pressure promotes development and strengthens the region by making the jaw bone denser. This pressure is lessened, and the bones progressively lose density and strength over time when the teeth are lost, whether accidentally or as a result of other oral health problems.

Pre-Implant Procedure: 

The all on 4 implants place the tooth with the help of screws. Placing 2 screws at the back of the teeth and 2 in front to distribute the bite. The pre-implant procedure involves taking measurements of the teeth. This gives patients comfort and ease to do tasks once the treatment is completed. 

Additionally, bite impressions of the top and bottom jaws will be taken. The components utilized in the All-on-four method will be fitted and sized using molds made from these impressions. These molds are used to make wax-testing dentures, which will be used to ensure the location and fit before temporary implant-supported dentures are made. The patient will proceed with the procedure when all the parts are ready. 

Placement of dental implants:

The natural distance between the top and bottom jaw is noted to ensure the face structure remains the same even after implantation. The procedure begins with sedating the patient to avoid the pain of extraction and fixture. After half an hour of sedation, extraction of precious teeth remnants occurs. The excess of damaged gum tissues is also removed. 

To expose the jawbone for ridge reduction, an incision will be made along the length of the ridge on both the top and bottom jaws. The predefined amounts of bone from the top and bottom arches will be removed to lessen the ridge, and the remaining bone will be flattened and ready for the placement of the dental implants. The dental implants are then placed after careful markings are done on the bone surface. Pilot holes are drilled for deep-rooting the dental implants and securing their position. Once the implants are placed, the gum tissue filament will seal the remaining teeth, steadying the implant. 

Recovery Time: 

After the all-on-four dental implant, the patient must follow the dentist’s advice. They are mainly requested to eat soft foods for a few months to allow the implant to settle down and to avoid unnecessary pressure. It takes around 3-4 months for the implants to fit in, and after that, one can surely eat food items they wish to eat. 

After a few months, the healing process is completed, and therefore the addition of a new prosthesis is customized and attached. After this final step, the patient is ready to go on with their life stress-free and eat the food they love. The doctor recommends some painkillers the patient must take to heal faster. 

Takeaway: 

All in four, dental implants have a lot of benefits. It also helps straighten the mamelon of your teeth and makes them look better. It is helpful for people who have lost or are currently losing teeth. It also benefits patients who aren’t eligible for implants because of insufficient jaw bone. Contact Valley Creek Dental Care to get all on 4 dental treatments done effectively and at pocket-friendly rates and smile brightly. 

How to Mentally Prepare for a Full Mouth Reconstruction

Getting a full mouth reconstruction can be scary! You can be afraid at the beginning, and it’s okay. No matter how long you have known your dentist, it's still the first time you are getting implants. It’s normal to worry about the unknown. Isn’t it? Preparing for implant surgery can be nerve-wracking for anyone deciding to go through it. People are nervous about dental surgeries, but some are even more nervous about dental implants as it is a big decision. However, preparing yourself mentally is paramount. So, below are a few tips that can help you be mentally prepared for having a full mouth reconstruction. 

Think about the benefits:

It’s easy to say that the benefits got you to make that decision. The decision seems to have more value when you think about the pros. One of the best ways to be mentally prepared is to note the benefits of your decision. This step helps you to put your trust in and follow your decision while bearing the challenges that come with it.

Nobody goes through dental surgery without any reason. Your reason for getting a dental implant could be poor teeth health, losing teeth because of dental disease, or having increased cavities. To avoid the significant effect, you decided to get an implant. And you have made the right choice. Despite it being an apt decision, the process can be overwhelming. So, if you feel afraid before the surgery just remind yourself that it will benefit you. Ultimately, it will lessen your pain, bring your healthy teeth back, and won’t ache every time you take a bite. 

Talk To Your Dentist About Full Mouth Reconstruction:

You must’ve heard that speaking your heart out reduces the burden on you. Discussing the dental procedure with your dentist can help you be ready for the procedure. You can discuss your doubts and avoid unnecessary worry. The more information you have, the less stress to deal with. Knowing more about dental implant operations would probably calm you because, in general, they are successful with minor to no issues at all. 

Additionally, your dentist may respond to inquiries regarding your mouth and teeth. However, your dentist is the one who can provide you with the most information about your personal treatment plan. You may look for data regarding the success rates of dental implant surgery or the recovery details following dental implant surgery. It helps you validate your decision and go about the process smoothly. 

Treat yourself a day before:

Chewing or biting hard food items might be tough after your surgery. So treat yourself to your favorite dinner the day before your surgery because you must stick to soft foods afterwards. Consult your dentist beforehand to understand the diet changes since you may need to abstain from food and drink for an hour before the procedure begins. 

If you're still anxious, go out with friends, watch a movie, or engage in another enjoyable activity the day before your procedure to get your mind off it. Remember, focusing on your fear will only increase it. Put yourself to bed early so you can sleep well. Remind yourself that having dental implants is another example of how you are caring for yourself.

Self-talk: 

Talking to yourself helps the most. Whenever you are afraid about something, just breathe and speak to yourself. All the answers are within you, and you have solutions to all the problems. So just calm down and talk to yourself. It makes everything alright. You can align your thoughts and free up doubts by thinking about them. 

When you’ve spoken with your dentist, you know about the procedure that will follow. So you can prepare your mind to be less anxious and face the surgery. Reflecting on your emotional thoughts can help you be more calm and patient with the procedure. It can help you ease some anxiety and go with the flow comfortably.

Read About it: 

Nowadays, the first thing people do when they are worried about something is to search for it. Researching has become easier with the internet at your fingertips. So just search about implants, conventional braces, or any dental issue you are worried about. You can find peace after reading other people’s experiences, blogs, and Q&A forums. With access to the internet, you can search for the precautions you need to take before the surgery. And also the process you need to follow after the surgery. 

Reading about the surgery can help you clearly understand your concerns. It can help you take care of your teeth health. It also enables you to look at your worry from the third person perspective, and it’s the right step towards mentally preparing yourself for implant surgery. 

Get Ready For Recovery:

You'll be at ease if you are confident that you can rest and heal without any issues after your surgery. Plan a couple of days off from work. Stock up on soft meals that are easy to eat in your refrigerator. On the day of the procedure, ask a friend or family member to accompany you or pick you up from your home and drop you at the clinic. Having a loved one near, a friend, or family can help calm your last-minute anxiety. They can also help you. 

You may feel better psychologically prepared by making specific preparations for the day of the operation and the period immediately following the procedure. You'll be aware that you are prepared and that your only concern should be taking care of yourself.

Enjoy Healthy Teeth!

Your end goal is to achieve healthy teeth. Being mentally prepared for the surgery is equally important as being physically ready. So, don’t you pile up all that worry and face all the difficulties alone? Take help from health care specialists, your close ones, and the internet. Remember the above tips and follow them before you undergo full mouth reconstruction.

7 Common Myths About Baby Teeth : Dentists in Mckinney, TX

Children's smiles undergo continuous development and change, just like everything else. There are numerous transformations, from the appearance of their first tooth to the emergence of their final permanent tooth. 

Due to the complexity of these changes, several misconceptions about children's teeth have arisen over time. As dedicated dentists in Mckinney, TX, at Valley Creek Dental Care, we aim to dispel these common myths about baby teeth and provide accurate information.

Let's begin!

Myth 1: Kids Are Capable Of Brushing Their Teeth

Children can't properly brush and floss their teeth effectively until they are much older. When five-year-olds brush their teeth, they can only clean their teeth surfaces. Parents should help them brush and floss for babies and toddlers. 

You can let preschoolers brush their teeth, but it's a good idea to check afterward to ensure they don't miss any spots. As professional dentists in Mckinney, TX, we suggest supervising your children's teeth, brushing and flossing until they turn seven or eight.

Myth 2: Kids Should Avoid Dental X-Rays Due To Safety Concerns

Getting dental X-rays is usually more helpful than risky. In our dental practice, we use advanced technology specifically designed for children. These digital X-rays expose kids to much less radiation than traditional X-rays. As the best Valley Creek Family Dentistry, We ensure proper shielding and only take X-rays when necessary rather than routinely. 

X-rays help dentists to see areas between teeth, inside the teeth, and below the gum line that are not visible to the naked eye. By detecting problems early, we can provide easier and less invasive treatments, keeping your child's smile healthy and bright.

Myth 3: My Child Can Visit The Same Valley Creek Family Dentistry as I do

While it's true that families can choose any dentist for their children, there are significant advantages to visiting a pediatric dentist. These dental specialists undergo two extra years of training in a residency program after dental school. During this time, they learn about the specific dental requirements of children and acquire behavioral techniques that help them feel more comfortable during dental visits. 

Therefore, this specialized training ensures that children receive the necessary care and have a positive experience at the dentist. While general dentistry practices may also treat kids effectively, pediatric dentists have expertise tailored to children's dental needs.

Myth 4: Babies Require Dental Visits After All Teeth Erupt

It's important to schedule your baby's first dental visit when they are one year old. This is because even with just one tooth, babies can develop cavities. During this visit, the expert dentists at Mckinney, TX, will ensure your baby's teeth and gums are healthy. They will help you establish a good oral care routine and check that your oral and dental development is progressing well. 

Moreover, starting dental visits early helps children become familiar with the dentist's office environment, the sounds, and the staff. It also allows them to build a positive relationship with the dentist and the dental team. This helps children feel more comfortable and makes future visits easier and stress-free for you and your child.

Myth 5: Mamelons On Teeth Are A Sign Of Dental Problems

One myth about mamelons on teeth is that they indicate dental problems or abnormalities. No, this is not the truth! Mamelons are naturally occurring on permanent incisor teeth and are characterized by small, rounded bumps or ridges on the edges of the teeth. However, some people mistakenly believe that mamelons indicate irregular tooth development or the need for orthodontic treatment.

In reality, mamelons, or ridges on teeth, are typically present on newly erupted adult incisor teeth and gradually wear down over time through normal biting and chewing. They are generally considered a normal variation of tooth anatomy and do not require any treatment or intervention.

Myth 6: Fluoride Overdose Prevents Cavities

Fluoride is vital for strengthening kids' teeth and preventing cavities. It can even reverse early tooth decay by repairing weak areas of the enamel, despite myths suggesting it's not good for baby teeth. Children receiving enough fluoride while developing their teeth benefit their permanent teeth in the long run. However, some kids don't get sufficient fluoride, especially if they drink only bottled water or live in areas without fluoridated tap water.

However, it's important to note that too much fluoride can also cause fluorosis, which can discolor permanent teeth. To ensure adequate fluoride intake, use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste for kids as soon as their first tooth appears. Use a pea-sized amount from ages three to six and ensure kids spit out excess toothpaste. 
Older kids only need a thin ribbon. Wait until around age six to introduce fluoride mouthwashes. During your child's visit to our Valley Creek Family Dentistry, experts will discuss the fluoride intake and determine if a fluoride treatment would be beneficial.

Myth 7: Kids Should Begin Flossing With Permanent Teeth

It is a myth that kids should only start flossing when their permanent teeth come in. Flossing is pertinent for kids to remove plaque. It is a sticky film that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. 

As baby teeth are temporary, they play a vital role, so keeping them healthy and free from cavities is crucial. When your baby's teeth touch each other, it's time to start flossing once daily to keep their teeth and gums in good shape.

Summary!

So, now you know the myths and facts about dental care for kids. For your kids, dental visits are essential. If your child hasn’t had their annual dental checkup yet, then make sure to schedule an appointment soon. 

Valley Creek Family Dentistry is dedicated to providing fuss-free oral care. We achieve it by performing only the necessary dental procedures, including pediatric dental treatment and cleaning.

Visit us today and let our skilled and caring dentists help you and your baby have a healthy smile.

Say Bye to Tooth Sensitivity: A McKinney Dentist’s Definitive Guide

It’s summertime, and we all crave a scoop of ice cream or a cold beverage. Oh, snap! Do you feel a jolt of sensation in your teeth if you try out any hot or cold drink? Well, then, you have sensitivity in the teeth. Everyday food and beverages trigger discomfort. It may be the sensation in all your teeth or just one particular tooth, but it can surely spoil your mood and ruin the taste of your food. 

Don’t feel like you are alone suffering from this problem. Statistics say, "1 person out of 3 suffers from sensitive teeth.” If you are facing this issue, it’s time to get a dentist appointment and visit the Doc. To find a suitable dentist near you, all you have to do is search for the dentist in your area. Try a Google search with “dentist in Mckinney, tx or MckinneyDentist”.

Teeth Sensitivity: Know what your Dentist in Mckinney, TX has to say

Teeth sensitivity is feeling a sense of pain every time you brush your teeth, drink hot or cold water/beverages, or eat hot or cold food. It is the sharp sensation of pain that you feel every time you do the above activities. 

Having sensitive teeth can lead to an unpleasant feeling for a while, or one can keep experiencing it for a few hours. It can also indicate early warning signs for serious dental problems.

It is called dentine hypersensitivity if you experience sensitivity in your teeth while having hot food/beverage. If you share the same feeling while having something cold, it is called Dentine Exposure. 

How does it occur?

Teeth sensitivity occurs when the dentin( underlying layer of the teeth) is exposed. This has a high chance of occurring when your gums loosen up, and the roots of your teeth are exposed to the food/beverage. 

• Teeth Grinding: Clenching or Grinding of your teeth may open up the enamel and expose the dentin. So avoid teeth grinding in case you are doing so. 

• Gum Recession: Gum recession means gum being torn down and exposing the underneath dentin. It is a predisposed disease that can be genetically present in you or grows due to weak gums.

• Cracked teeth: Teeth that are cracked give space for bacteria to enter from the plaque to the pulp, causing inflammation.

• Teeth whitening products: When you use chemically filled teeth, whitening products affect the health of your teeth. If you wish to whiten your teeth consult a dentist near you by searching for a dentist in McKinney, tx, or emergency dentistry. 

Brushing too hard-When you brush your teeth too hard, the bristles of your brush can tear down the enamel—tearing of enamel results in dentin exposure. So, if you brush your teeth too hard, stop. Be gentle with your teeth like you are gentle with all the other parts of your body. 

Which age group does it impact the most?

Do you have questions like, is teeth sensitivity age group specific, or can it happen to anyone? Well, let’s clear your doubts about that. Teeth sensitivity is highest between the age of 25-30. Regardless, the consumption of junk food and a lot of iced beverages has started impacting the younger crowd. 

Improper oral care or excessive it, as we saw above, brushing excessively, consuming acidic food or using mouthwashes that contain acids can worsen tooth sensitivity. So although the stats say that the age group of 25-30 is most likely to be affected by toothache, it can also impact others. 

How to Ease Sensitivity In Teeth: 

Teeth sensitivity can be painful. So here’s what can help you ease sensitivity in teeth.

Eat Less Acidic Food: 

Being careful about what you eat can help you avoid teeth sensitivity. Avoiding/less consumption of acidic food like lemon, tomatoes, and citrus fruits can help you ease teeth sensitivity. 

Maintaining oral hygiene: 

Using toothpaste that is specially made for sensitive teeth will help you decrease sensitivity. One should continue brushing and flossing to keep the mouth and teeth clean. 

Using a toothbrush with soft bristles:

Using a toothbrush with soft bristles will not cause any harm to your teeth. It will cause less irritation to your gums which occurs because of toothbrush abrasion. 

Avoid Teeth Grinding:

Don’t grind your teeth because it affects your teeth’ health. If you can’t avoid the habit, you must use a mouthguard at night. 

Dental Check-Ups: 

Regular dental checkups are a must. Even though you have no problem with your teeth or aches, a routine dental checkup will keep you updated about your tooth health.

Wrapping Up, 

Sensitivity is a significant concern. All the above tips are helpful if you follow them religiously. Regular dental checkups will help you check your teeth' health. Other issues like Invisalign on teeth could be cured by searching emergency dentistry or mckinney dentistry and making an appointment to visit the dentist.

Maintain Oral Health like a Pro: A Guide By Mckinney, Tx Dentist

We often ignore our teeth' health, mistaking them to be low-maintenance. However, it only comes to our attention when we have a toothache, cavities, yellow teeth, or sensitivity in our teeth. Well, it shouldn't be like that. A proper teeth care routine should be followed to avoid cavities and gum problems. You can also get your regular dental checkup by searching for a good dentist nearby, e.g., McKinney, tx dentist.

This blog elaborates on teeth problems and how to properly care for your teeth. So if you want to avoid cavities and gum problems, this blog is a good read. 

Dentist’s Advice On How To Fight Against Cavity And Gum Problems:

Cavities are the darkened or brown development on the surface of your teeth. They make the teeth permanently damaged as active bacteria have taken over due to the improper care of your teeth, consumption of sugary beverages, or food of frequent snacking. A cavity occurs when the mouth bacteria turn the sugar into acid and decay your tooth, causing a hole in your teeth. It is common but harmful to our teeth and can occur at all ages. Yes, this means that getting thoroughly examined by trusted pediatric dentistry in McKinney is a must for the little ones as well!

Gum problems can occur when the cavity in your mouth starts attacking the gums, weakening them. Eventually, it loosens the teeth and can result in teeth extraction. Well, whatever may be the reason for teeth cavity and gum problems, there are a few ways to prevent it and treat it if it's already occurred. 

How To Get Rid Of Plaque: 

Brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once daily should be practiced. It helps with keeping your teeth clean and the bacteria away and helps with the problem of bad breath. 

Avoid Drinking Sugary Food & Beverages:

Consumption of colas and sweets harms your health, especially your teeth health. If you have a sweet tooth, limiting sugar content may help. If you can’t avoid sugar altogether, you can consume it with other food items during meals. It lessens the chances of plaque. 

Drinking Water After Meals:

Water helps clean the remnants of food left in your mouth after meals. It helps clean the bacteria in your mouth and swallow the food particles stuck in your teeth. Drinking water is good for your physical health as well as your teeth health. So drink more water to keep your mouth and gut clean.

Use Toothpaste Made For Sensitive Teeth:

A significant part of teeth cleansing is using the right toothpaste. If you have sensitive teeth or aches in your teeth, then using toothpaste specially curated for sharp teeth is recommended. Toothpaste made for sensitive teeth has fluoride in it. Check the ingredients of your toothpaste and see whether it has fluoride. If not, purchase a better toothpaste that helps you keep your teeth clean and healthy. 

Cavity may seem like a minor issue, but it is painful and can destroy your teeth to a great extent. Taking the above precautions is necessary to avoid tooth pain and cavities. However, if you already have plaque, it’s about time that you went to see whitening dentists in McKinney, TX. 

How Does Brushing Help?

Brushing your teeth helps reduce the chances of plaque or gum diseases. Below are the five important reasons for brushing your teeth:

• Brushing your teeth helps clean dirty teeth and remove leftover food from your teeth which causes decay. 

• It helps clean your mouth and keeps the bacteria away

• It enables you to get rid of the bad breath 

• It helps prevent plaque and gum diseases

• Poor oral health leads to dementia. Brushing teeth regularly helps prevent dementia. 

Brushing your teeth twice a day is good for your oral health. Brushing in the morning as you wake up to kill the germs developed in your mouth overnight and then in the night before you sleep to avoid sleeping with the bits and pieces of your food left in your mouth after dinner. 

When should you visit your dentist? 

Visiting a dentist regularly is good for your teeth’ health. However, in case of a cavity, if you observe the below symptoms, do visit a dentist immediately.

• If you are facing toothache or spontaneous ache, it is a sign of a cavity.

• If you observe darkened teeth, it is an indication of a cavity.

• If you have excess pain while chewing a food item, it is a symptom of cavities.

• It increases teeth sensitivity by eating anything hot or cold.

• Holes in your teeth. 

If you observe the above signs, it is highly recommended to visit your nearest McKinney, tx dentist at the earliest. They can perform a root canal on the aching tooth to ease your pain and help you get relief from plaque.

Takeaway:

Oral health is equally important as physical health. It is a part of your body and should not be avoided. You should take the necessary precautions to prevent gum diseases and cavities. Strong oral health helps you fight against germs and makes your teeth healthier and stronger. Visiting a dentist for regular checkups should also be considered. You can find a good dentist by searching for a dentist in your location for eg: McKinney dentist. Hope this blog helps you learn about teeth health and how to prevent and fight cavities and gum diseases so that you can take good care of your teeth.