Southington Dentistry

Seal Out Cavities with Dental Sealants

2010-09-15T15:58:00.000-07:00

A dental sealant is a clear, plastic coating that is bonded to the vulnerable chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and pre-molars) where decay most often occurs. These protective sealants cover the tooth surface to “seal out” food and plaque, thus reducing the risk of decay.

The probability of developing decay begins early in life, so children and teenagers are obvious candidates for dental sealants during their most cavity-prone years. But that doesn’t mean adults at risk for tooth decay can’t benefit from sealants as well.

At Southington Dentistry, sealants can be applied quickly, easily and comfortably without the need for drilling or the removal of tooth structure. The sealant is painted onto the tooth to form a protective shield, and bonds into the pits and grooves of the chewing surfaces, acting as a barrier to protect enamel from harmful plaque. Sealants can last for several years and can be reapplied by our Southington office as necessary.

A Healthy Smile Calls for Good Dental Hygiene

Sealants are only one part of preventive dental care and should not replace good oral hygiene. Instead, sealants preserve the teeth, adding additional protection to prevent decay and reducing the likelihood for extensive dental procedures later on. In addition to sealants, a comprehensive dental program should include twice-daily brushing, fluoride, healthy food choices and regular visits to our Southington office.

Even if you brush and floss carefully, it can be very difficult- and even impossible- to remove food and bacteria buildup from the tiny crevices on certain teeth, which puts you at risk for tooth decay. Talk to Southington Dentistry about dental sealants at your next appointment. Combined with good dental hygiene, you can feel more confident that your smile is protected from the harmful plaque that causes cavities.

Restore Your Smile and Your Confidence with Dental Implants

2010-09-01T13:36:00.000-07:00

Whether you are missing a single tooth or multiple teeth, you want a dental solution that will restore your smile as close to your natural teeth as possible. With dental implants, patients can replace missing teeth with permanent implants that look, feel and perform just like natural teeth. No one but you and your dentist will have to know that you received implants, but you’ll reap the benefits of a beautiful, natural smile. It’s easy to see why implants are becoming the number one option for replacing missing teeth.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth. The procedure is a multi-step process that involves placing metal anchors into the bone of the jaw, allowing the anchor and bone to fuse, placing an extension in the anchor, and fixing a prosthetic tooth or crown on the extension.

Benefits of Dental Implants from Southington Dentistry:

If you, like millions of adults, have lost one or more teeth, then you understand the unpleasant consequences that accompany tooth loss. Missing teeth result in an older appearance, difficulty eating and speaking, and other health problems like tooth decay and bone deterioration.

Not long ago, dentures were the only restorative dental treatment available for replacing natural teeth, but unlike dental implants, offered no stability or permanence. Since implants are securely attached, you gain confidence to eat what you like, the ability to speak clearly and freedom from embarrassment. Other benefits include:

Improved Appearance: Dental implants look and feel just like your own teeth
Improved Comfort: Implants are securely anchored, so there is no slipping as there is with dentures. This eliminates some of the key inconveniences of dentures, including poor fit, gum irritation, and pain.
Improved Health: Dental implants can help prevent deterioration of the jawbone caused by loss of teeth, so your face retains its natural shape.
Durability: Implants are strong and can last a lifetime with proper care.
Convenience: Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanent, eliminating the inconvenience of removing your dentures. With implants, you can brush and care for your teeth just as you would your natural teeth.

Are you a good candidate for dental implants?

Whether you are missing one tooth or multiple teeth, dental implants may be a viable solution for restoring your natural smile. Patients must have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. The patient must also be committed to good oral hygiene, including exceptional brushing, flossing and regular visits to our Southington office.

Whether your tooth loss is caused by decay, years of wear and tear or serious trauma, dental implants can help you get your smile back. No other restorative procedure replaces the entire missing tooth and preserves bone like dental implants. If you’re missing teeth, don’t compromise your health and quality of life any longer. Visit Southington Dentistry and find out if dental implants are a good fit for you.

Brushing up on Your Oral Hygiene

2010-08-16T15:48:00.001-07:00

You already know that in order to avoid serious dental problems you need to practice good oral hygiene. However, many of us too often neglect these basic habits, and as a result we have to face the negative consequences, including cavities, bad breath, tooth loss and gum disease.

With that being said, it may be time to "brush up" on your oral hygiene. Daily dental care, including brushing and flossing will help combat the buildup of plaque and fight tooth decay, gum disease and other serious health problems.

Dental Health Tips from Southington Dentistry

Brushing: Get in the habit of brushing your teeth morning and night, spending at least two minutes brushing all areas of your teeth to remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Use fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen the teeth and combat decay, and brush after consuming sugary foods and drinks when possible. Remember to replace your toothbrush every few months or when it begins to show wear.

Flossing: Only flossing can remove food particles and debris from between the teeth where your toothbrush can't reach. It's important to floss once a day, gently maneuvering the floss between each of your teeth until you reach the gum line. Doing so can help prevent dangerous plaque and tartar from accumulating which can lead to gum disease.

Diet: Sugary snacks taste great, but they aren't so great for your teeth. Foods high in sugars and starches contribute to the production of plaque acids that attack tooth enamel. Eventually, these acids can cause tooth enamel to break down, forming a cavity. If you must eat foods high in sugar or starch, eat them during meals rather than between meals, and avoid any foods that stick to your teeth as these can produce more plaque. To avoid stains, be mindful of tea, coffee, soda and other dark foods and beverages that can discolor your teeth.

Checkups and Cleanings: Visiting Southington Dentistry regularly at our Southington Dental Office for routine checkups and cleanings is the most important step you can take to maintaining a healthy smile. During these important visits we can detect and treat a number of oral health conditions including tooth decay, gum disease and oral cancers.

Next time you visit Southington Dentistry, ask us for tips for caring for your teeth and gums. We can help point out areas of your mouth that may require extra attention and care during brushing and flossing. Diligent dental care at home combined with regular visits to our Pleasant Hill, CA office are the best ways to keep your teeth looking and feeling their very best.

Simple and Subtle Changes for a Beautiful Smile

2010-08-02T09:29:00.000-07:00

Also known as teeth reshaping, dental contouring is a quick, easy and conservative solution for improving the appearance of a problematic tooth. Because of the ease in which contouring can be performed by Southington Dentistry, many patients prefer dental contouring to other, more invasive procedures.

The procedure involves removing small amounts of tooth enamel in order to alter its shape, length or surface. Dental instruments and abrasives allow dentists to remove the enamel, and then sculpt and polish the tooth to its desired appearance. Many patients prefer this conservative treatment because their smile is improved without looking drastically different.

Teeth Reshaping is a great option for minor dental imperfections, such as:

· Pitted or grooved tooth enamel

· Chipped or fractured teeth

· Overlapping or crowded teeth

· Uneven teeth

· Crooked, pointy teeth

Healthy teeth and gums are necessary for dental contouring. Patients with deep cracks, decay or extensive chipping may not be good candidates.

Advantages of Dental Contouring From Southington Dentistry

Conservative Approach: Dental contouring is one of the most conservative cosmetic treatments for achieving a more radiant smile. If you’re looking for subtle improvements rather than dramatic changes, this procedure may be right for you.
Improved Health: Repairing minor overlaps and other dental damage where plaque can accumulate reduces your risk of decay and gum disease.
Ease of Procedure: Reshaping your teeth is generally quick and painless since only surface enamel is removed from the tooth.

Even though the reshaping process involves removing only a few millimeters, dental contouring goes to show that even little changes can make a big difference in the appearance of your smile. Keep in mind that teeth reshaping is best for patients who want only subtle adjustments or repairs. For a more noticeable smile makeover, consider veneers. Visit Southington Dentistry and find out if dental contouring is a good option for you.

Overcome Your Dental Fears for a Confident Smile

2010-07-15T09:57:00.001-07:00

Do you fear trips to the dentist and procedures that follow? You’re not alone. In fact, many people in the Southington and Bristol areas experience some degree of dental phobia, and some even avoid routine check-ups and cleanings because of it. Because regular dental visits to our Southington office are vital to your overall health, it’s critical that you overcome this fear to avoid serious dental problems in the future.

You may have dental phobia if you experience:
• Difficulty sleeping the nights leading up to a dentist appointment
• Feelings of nervousness that escalate while in the dental office waiting room
• Crying or feeling physically ill at the thought of your next dentist appointment
• Intense uneasiness when dental objects/instruments are placed in your mouth during the appointment

At Southington Dentistry, we want your visits to be as comfortable and pain free as possible. Our Southington and Bristol dentist and dental professionals are specially trained in handling fearful patients and offer a variety of methods and techniques to reduce fear and make your visits relaxing. Avoiding the dentist because of fear can have serious ramifications in terms of your dental health and overall well-being. Today, with advanced treatment techniques and a dentist trained to help you overcome dental anxiety, you can feel confident about restoring your oral health.

• Trust: We’ll establish a rapport with you starting with your initial visit. We want you to trust our ability to provide you with the best dental care possible, so we welcome all questions and fears regarding your dental health.
• Communication: Before starting any treatments, we’ll discuss exactly what the procedure entails. Let us know what scares you. Whether you fear pain, injections or a loss of control, we’ll talk you through the procedure and modify the treatment plan to accommodate your misgivings.
• Relaxation: Controlled breathing and muscle relaxation can help calm your nerves before procedures. If it helps, bring a friend or relative with you to the appointment for support.

Bad experiences with oral health care providers in the past can lead to a lifetime of dental phobia. Let our dental professionals at Southington Dentistry provide quality, gentle dental care for your oral health needs and help you overcome your dental anxiety. We understand that trips to the dentist can be scary, but together, we can help you overcome your phobia once and for all to bring you a lifetime of good dental health.

Communicating with Your Dentist: The Key to Effective Dental Care

2010-07-01T10:14:00.000-07:00

Communicating with your dentist is the key to building trust and maximizing your dental care. Effective communication between a Southington and Bristol dentist and patient helps the patient understand his or her treatment options, reduces dental anxiety and ultimately provides a better outcome for a patient’s dental health.

At Southington Dentistry, we strive to provide the highest quality of dental care in a comfortable, open environment. We take the time to understand your needs and fears so that we can deliver the best oral health care for all of your dental needs.

and patient helps the patient understand his or her treatment options, reduces dental anxiety and ultimately provides a better outcome for a patient’s dental health.Healthy Communication for a Healthy Smile

The following tips can help you better understand and practice good communication skills with your dentist:

Build Trust
Get to know us at Southington Dentistry. We want you to feel safe, confident and comfortable every time you visit our Plantsville office. Whether you are coming in for a routine cleaning or you have an appointment for extensive dental work, we want to work with you to make sure the entire procedure goes as smoothly and pain free as possible.

Speak Up
It’s not always easy to recognize when a patient is nervous or scared. Let us know what about the dentist intimidates you? Once we understand your fears, we can work with you to modify the treatment in order to provide the most relaxed and comfortable care.

It’s also important for patients to respond to a dentist’s questions honestly so that we can provide the most appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Failing to tell our Plantsville office about your toothache won’t make the problem go away. In fact, it will make the situation worse.

Reveal Important Medical History
We can’t stress enough how important it is that you provide our office with all of your health history information. From medications and allergies to heart conditions and other health problems, it’s critical that we have the most up-to-date medical history in order to deliver the safest and most appropriate dental care.

The Age of Information Technology
In this day and age, there are a number of ways a patient and dentist can communicate more efficiently and effectively. With Southington Dentistry’s website and blog, our patients always have easy and quick access to our practice, including office hours, contact information, service descriptions and more. Whenever you have a question about your oral health, we encourage you to check out our site, read through our blog or contact our office for more information.

Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be your favorite activity, but it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable either. At Southington Dentistry, our dentist’s expertise not only includes clinical skills, but patient education and good communication as well. Once you learn to communicate effectively, you’ll be able to better understand your dental treatment options, ease your dental anxiety and achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile.

Canker Sores: A Pain in the Mouth

2010-06-15T12:46:00.001-07:00

If you’ve ever suffered from a canker sore, then you know these small, persistent ulcers can be a real pain in the mouth. Unlike cold sores which appear on the outside of the mouth and are caused by a virus, canker sores are not contagious and usually disappear within a few weeks. Generally, canker sores make eating, swallowing, speaking and tooth brushing very painful. Fortunately, as the sore heals, the pain also diminishes.

Canker sores are characterized by one or more painful sores on the tongue, soft palate, insides of the cheeks or lips and the gums. These inflamed, tender sores are typically round, white, or gray in color, with a red surrounding border

Causes

While their exact cause is unknown, common triggers of a canker sore may include:

Stress
Immune deficiencies
Infection
Aggressive tooth brushing
Oral tissue injury
Allergic reaction
Spicy or acidic foods
Abrasive foods or dental appliances

If one does develop, rinse with salt water daily and apply an over-the-counter oral numbing agent to alleviate the pain. Doing so will speed up the healing process and make eating, drinking and brushing more bearable.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Monitor your canker sores as they develop to detect unusual changes. Canker sores will generally heal on their own and don’t require treatment. If your sores are abnormally large, last longer than a few weeks or are so painful you can’t eat or drink, you should make an appointment with our Southington office. Recurring canker sores and intolerable pain is not normal and should be examined by a dentist.

Bruxism: Stop Teeth Grinding and Save Your Smile

2010-06-01T09:44:00.000-07:00

Also known as teeth grinding, bruxism is a condition in which people grind, clench or gnash their teeth. Most people clench at night, but others do it unconsciously throughout the day. Bruxism does not usually cause harm, but when teeth grinding occurs on a regular basis the teeth can become damaged and other oral health complications can arise.

Chronic acts of grinding can result in a fracturing, loosening or loss of the teeth. Severe cases can also lead to jaw disorders, like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder and frequent headaches.

Common warning signs and symptoms of chronic teeth grinding may include:
• Worn down, flattened or chipped teeth
• Frequent earaches, facial pain or jaw pain
• Unexplained headaches, particularly in the morning
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Indentions on tongue
• Worn tooth enamel, exposing deep layers of the tooth
• Chewed tissue on inside of cheek
• Enlarged or tightened jaw muscles due to severe contractions
• Grinding or clenching that is loud enough to awaken others in your household

There isn’t one cause of bruxism, but many times teeth grinding is related with reasons such as stress or a natural response due to the misalignment of teeth. In children, many times bruxism is a result of the growth and development of the jaws and teeth.

Treatment for bruxism will vary, depending on the severity and cause. Sometimes simple behavior modification or relaxation techniques may be enough to reduce teeth clenching. If bruxism is caused by dental problems, Southington Dentistry can work with you to correct the malocclusion. Other possible solutions include dental appliances which can also protect the teeth from the impact of grinding.

Unfortunately, you may not even realize that you have bruxism until it causes significant damage to your teeth. If you suspect you may be grinding your teeth, visit Southington Dentistry for an evaluation. During regular visits to our Southington office, the teeth are examined for evidence of grinding, such as jaw tenderness and abnormalities in your teeth. Southington Dentistry can help you identify your cause of grinding and determine the best treatment to help you stop.

How to Handle a Dental Emergency

2010-05-17T08:18:00.000-07:00

A toothache. A knocked out or broken tooth. A lost crown or filling. You can’t always stop dental injuries from occurring, but you can help ease the pain and prevent additional dental damage until you can get to a dentist. At Southington Dentistry, we realize accidents can happen, and when patients are prepared to handle dental emergencies, it can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth.

Easy Ways to Avoid Dental Injuries

Avoid chewing ice or hard candy which can crack teeth
Avoid ripping objects with teeth, such as sealed packages and tape
Avoid the risk of injury to teeth, gums, lips and tongue by wearing a mouthguard when participating in sports and high-impact activities
Visit Southington Dentistry for regular check ups and cleanings

Whether you’re at home, in the car or at work, when a dental emergency strikes, you’ll want to be prepared. Until you can get into our Plantsville office, following these basic steps can help relieve the pain, save your tooth and prevent additional damage. Before acting on any dental emergency, you should always contact Southington Dentistry first to ensure safe and appropriate care.

Temporary Treatment for Common Dental Emergencies

Toothache: Rinse mouth with warm water to clean the affected tooth, and gently floss to remove food or debris that may be trapped between the teeth. If pain persists, visit a dentist for a thorough evaluation as it may indicate a cavity or infection.
Broken tooth: Rinse mouth with warm water; locate the lost filling or tooth pieces; and control swelling or bleeding with an ice pack and gauze. See your dentist as soon as possible.
Knocked out tooth: Gently place the tooth back into the socket if possible. If not, tuck it between your cheek and gum or place it in a small container of milk. Getting to your dentist within one hour of the accident with the tooth is your best bet for successfully reattaching the tooth to the supporting tissues.
Objects caught between teeth: Rinse your mouth with warm water. If that doesn’t work, gently try to remove the object with floss. Avoid using sharp instruments that could injure or cut the gums. If the object can’t be dislodged, visit Southington Dentistry for professional assistance.

Temporary dental care is just that- temporary. It’s important to seek professional dental assistance as soon as possible following an injury to your teeth or gums.

Fortunately, an unforeseen dental emergency can usually be prevented with early detection and preventative care. Practice good oral hygiene-brushing and flossing daily-and visit our Plantsville office for regular check ups and cleanings. As a general rule, if your teeth or mouth hurt, visit Southington Dentistry for a careful evaluation and proper treatment.

Is an Abscess Causing My Dental Pain?

2010-05-03T06:59:00.000-07:00

Experiencing a severe, unrelenting toothache? You may be suffering from an abscessed tooth- an infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and a tooth. A tooth abscess begins when bacteria invade and infect a tooth. As a result, a pocket of pus is formed which causes painful pressure. Tooth decay is the leading cause of an abscessed tooth, but gum disease and dental trauma can also lead to an infection.

Persistent toothaches that result in throbbing or sharp pain are common symptoms of a tooth abscess. Other symptoms include:

Pain when chewing
Sensitivity to hot or cold
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Feeling of overall uneasiness or illness
Redness and inflammation of the gums
Bad taste in mouth or foul smelling breath
Fever

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, you’ll want to visit Southington Dentistry as soon as possible, as an abscess won’t go away on its own. Delaying treatment can lead to serious health complications, including tooth loss and the spread of infection to your soft tissues or the jaw bone. An abscess that ruptures or a tooth root that dies as a result of the infection may reduce the pain significantly, but dental treatment will still be necessary as the infection remains active and can continue to spread to surrounding tissues.

Treatment for a tooth abscess may vary depending on the severity of the infection. At Southington Dentistry our treatment plan focuses on eliminating the infection, preserving the tooth, and preventing further dental complications.

Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is the best way to prevent dental problems that may lead to an abscessed tooth, including daily brushing, flossing and a healthy diet. Additionally, regular visits to our Southington office for cleanings and check ups are also critical for detecting dental problems early.

Welcome to Our Blog!

2009-09-28T05:53:00.000-07:00

Southington Dentistry is excited to announce the launch of our new blog. We believe that dental health care is vital to your overall wellbeing and hope you find our blog to be both informative and beneficial to your oral health.

Our blog will keep you up to date with the latest information from the dental field including advancements in treatment, new procedures and practical dental health advice from Dr. Salesky and his staff.

We hope you find our blog to be a great resource for keeping up to date with proper tooth care and dental needs.

We welcome feedback and encourage you to comment on our posts.