January 26, 2012

Smile Confidently with Dental Veneers

Veneers Fort WorthDental veneers can correct a number of problems that can make you self-conscious about your smile. In many cases, treatment with dental veneers can help you avoid more invasive treatments such as crowns, or uncomfortable orthodontic work. If you are considering veneers in Fort Worth, here is some information to help you make your decision.

Conditions Treated with Veneers

Veneers are an innovative and versatile cosmetic treatment. They are relatively easy to apply and are minimally invasive. In addition, they are durable, long-lasting, and are custom-made to match your natural enamel.

Veneers are used to treat a wide variety of cosmetic issues, including:

  • Chips
  • Cracks
  • Pits on the surface of the teeth
  • Severe staining
  • Slight misalignment
  • Small gaps

In the past, many of these issues were best treated with dental crowns or with traditional braces. However, veneers can now provide cosmetic treatment of these issues with minimal restructuring of the teeth. If misalignment or gaps are minor and do not interfere with overall alignment, veneers are an effective treatment to make your smile appear straighter and more attractive.

Placement of Veneers

Veneers are made of very thin porcelain that is bonded to the front surface of the teeth with a special bonding agent. They are typically placed on the teeth in a two-part process. First, the teeth are prepared for the veneers. A small layer of enamel is removed from the teeth to make room for the veneers. A mold is then made from which the veneers are manufactured. Your dentist then places temporary veneers to protect the surfaces of your teeth.

When the permanent veneers are completed, you will return to your cosmetic dentist to have the temporary veneers removed and replaced with the final, custom-made veneers. They are color-matched to your enamel so that they are virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Veneers also reflect light much like natural enamel. After your new veneers are placed, you’ll have the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted.

To schedule a consultation with our dental team of Drs. Batton & Harlin, call 817-918-4199 today!

January 16, 2012

How Do I Care for my Dentures?

If you have chosen to have dentures to replace your missing teeth, you’ll need to care for them properly to ensure long-term comfort and durability. If you wear dentures in the Fort Worth area, our offices can provide guidance on how to keep them clean and well cared for.

Everyday Denture Care

As with your teeth, the most important care you can provide for your dentures is everyday care. This includes:

  • Daily brushing. Just like your natural teeth, dentures must be brushed every day. Use a brush specifically made for denture care. Other types of brushes could wear your dentures down or damage the surface of the denture.
  • Rinsing after meals. Rinse your dentures after every meal to prevent staining and to remove food particles.
  • Use a denture cleaner. For deeper cleaning, use a denture cleaner periodically. Your dentist can recommend an appropriate cleaning solution.
  • Keep dentures moist. When you’re not wearing your dentures, it’s important not to let them dry out. Keep them submerged in a denture solution or in water. If your dentures include metal pieces, ask your dentist for a recommendation to keep from tarnishing the metal.

Diligent everyday care will keep your dentures clean, white, and free of food particles that can lead to bacterial growth in the mouth. Although dentures cannot decay, an excess of bacteria in the mouth can lead to other issues.

Periodic Adjustments and Other Care

Your dentures should remain stationary in your mouth, without causing discomfort. If your dentures don’t fit properly, the result could be sores in the mouth or irritation to the roof or the mouth or the gums. If you experience any discomfort, be sure to consult with your dentist immediately to have any necessary adjustments made.

If your dentures are broken, you should also see your dentist immediately so they can be repaired. In some cases, your dentures might have to be sent to an off-site lab for repairs.

To find out more about dentures and how to care for them, please contact our cosmetic and family dentistry office.

January 6, 2012

Orthodontic Treatment Options for Children

orthodontics Fort WorthOrthodontic treatment is commonly associated with adolescents, but more and more dentists recommend orthodontics at a younger age. Younger children can be treated for issues such as crowding of teeth before they become a serious problem. If your child might need orthodontics in the Fort Worth 76107 area, here are some things to consider as you make your decision.

Reasons for Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontics isn’t just about a straight smile. Long-term problems can result from improper alignment, including abnormal wear and tear, need to remove teeth, improper jaw growth, and issues such as temporomandibular joint disorder. In addition, earlier orthodontic care can prevent the need for braces later in life, or allow your older adolescent to wear braces for a shorter period of time.

The most common reasons for orthodontic treatment in younger children are crowding of teeth and teeth that are misaligned when they emerge. Rather than trying to correct the placement and alignment of teeth after they have emerged, many dentists now use interceptive orthodontics to make room for the teeth and ensure that they will emerge in proper alignment. Interceptive orthodontic treatments can be used before the teeth actually emerge.

Other uses of orthodontics address front teeth that protrude excessively and teeth that cannot emerge because they are blocked by deciduous teeth.

Common Orthodontic Treatments

In younger children, the jaw is still growing, so some treatments for early intervention involve widening the palate to make more room. This is accomplished with a palate expander. Because the jaw is still growing, this method helps create more room so that teeth do not need to be removed to prevent crowding.

Traditional braces can also be used to shift teeth that have already emerged, especially permanent teeth that have come in out of their proper alignment. Braces are also usually used later to complete treatment and ensure all teeth are properly aligned. With appropriate early orthodontic treatment, as well as additional treatment later, your child will have not only a beautiful smile, but will also have a healthy mouth and teeth.

For more information about orthodontic treatment for your child, please contact our Fort Worth dentistry office at 817-918-4199 to schedule a consultation.

December 27, 2011

Will My Teeth Straighten Out as They Grow?

Misaligned teeth are quite common among adolescents and younger children. Many children and their parents hope that, with time, teeth will straighten out and move into a more appropriate position, but this is unlikely. Our orthodontist serving Fort Worth can answer questions about tooth alignment and possibilities for orthodontic treatment.

Causes of Misalignment

The most common cause of misalignment is a lack of room in the mouth. If your mouth is too small to accommodate all of your teeth, your teeth will be crowded and will probably be crooked and misaligned.

Misalignment can also occur when baby teeth are removed before the permanent teeth naturally cause them to fall out. This disruption of the natural process can cause permanent teeth to emerge in the wrong place or at the wrong angle. This is one of many reasons why baby teeth should be well cared for.

If your teeth are crowded, they are likely to become even more so as they grow out and as other teeth emerge. Overall, the chances are very slim that waiting for teeth to grow out and shift naturally will help avoid the necessity of braces.

Treatment for Misalignment

The most common treatment for misaligned teeth, especially for adolescents, is traditional braces. The braces are affixed to the teeth and attached to each other with wires and rubber bands. The tension from the rubber bands moves the teeth gradually into the appropriate position. Braces can also be made of porcelain so they are less visible, or can be applied to the back of the teeth. Consult with your orthodontist to find out what the best option is for you.

Another possible treatment for misalignment is Invisalign. This orthodontic treatment uses clear plastic trays instead of traditional metal braces to shift the teeth into the right position. Invisalign is not used as frequently for adolescents because it is more suitable for smaller changes in alignment. Invisalign treatment also tends to take longer when used with adolescent patients.

To find out more about misalignment, how it can affect your overall dental health, and how to correct it, please contact our Family & Cosmetic Dentistry office at 817.918.4199.

December 17, 2011

Will I Still Have to Wear a Retainer After Invisalign?

Invisalign Fort Worth

If you have misaligned or slightly crooked teeth, you might have considered Invisalign to straighten your teeth and improve your smile. Our Invisalign dentists in Fort Worth TX can help you determine if Invisalign is a good option for you, and can help explain how it works and how to keep your teeth straight in the long term.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses clear plastic trays to shift your teeth into the correct position. These plastic trays are custom made to move your teeth a small amount with each new tray, gradually easing your teeth into proper alignment. By the time you reach the final alignment tray, your teeth will be straight and you will have a beautiful, perfect smile.

Invisalign treatment usually takes about a year, depending upon the severity of your misalignment. After treatment is complete, you will most likely have to wear a special retainer to keep your teeth from moving back into an inappropriate position. However, be sure to consult your Invisalign dentist about this issue, as treatments vary from person to person.

Maintaining Your Perfect Smile

After you have finished your Invisalign treatment, you will want to follow your dentist’s instructions to ensure your smile remains straight and perfect. How this is accomplished depends upon the recommendations of your dentist per your individual case. Typically, you will wear either a traditional retainer or a tray similar to those used during your treatment to keep your teeth from moving out of position.

In general, it is not necessary to wear your retainer every day. Usually, you will wear the retainer at night. Your dentist might recommend wearing it every night, or only a few days a week for the best results. If you do not follow your dentist’s recommendation, though, you might find your teeth moving back into their original positions, reversing the long-term effects of your Invisalign treatment.

For more information about Invisalign treatment and how to keep your smile straight, please contact our office for a consultation.

December 7, 2011

Causes of Tooth Discoloration and Treatment Options

Tooth discoloration is one of the most common reasons people seek cosmetic dentistry. Teeth that are dingy or darkened can make you self-conscious about your smile and detract from an otherwise spotless appearance. Our offices can provide information about cosmetic dentistry in the Fort Worth area, including treatments for tooth discoloration.

Causes of Tooth Discoloration

Many factors can lead to tooth discoloration. The most common of these is exposing your teeth to staining agents. Staining agents can include:

  • Foods
  • Beverages
  • Nicotine

Coffee, tea and cigarettes are the most common causes of tooth discoloration. This type of staining affects only the surface of the tooth, discoloring the outer layers of the enamel. Fortunately, this means that it is also easy to treat.

Other causes of tooth discoloration can be more difficult to treat. These include certain drugs, particularly tetracycline, and excessive fluoride. Exposure to these substances during the development of the teeth leads to intrinsic staining—that is, staining that is a part of the internal structure of the tooth. Because intrinsic staining affects more than just the surface layers of the enamel, it is more difficult to treat than extrinsic staining.

Treatment Options for Discolored Teeth

Depending upon the type of staining that affects your teeth, your cosmetic dentist might recommend different types of treatment. Treatment options for discolored teeth include:

  • Surface treatment
  • Deep cleaning treatments
  • Dental veneers

Surface treatment is very effective at removing staining from the outer surfaces of the teeth. Treatment involves painting a bleaching agent on the teeth, then leaving it for a period of time. A typical in-office treatment involves two or three applications of the bleaching agent and lasts about an hour.

Deep cleaning treatments are also applied to the tooth surfaces, but are specially formulated to reach deep into the teeth. These treatments are relatively new, and have proven effective for some types of intrinsic staining. Intrinsic staining that does not respond to surface treatment or deep cleaning treatments are usually best treated with dental veneers.

To find out how your discolored teeth can be restored to their natural color, please contact our Cosmetic & Family Dentistry practice at 817.918.4199 for a consultation or appointment.

November 28, 2011

Preserve Natural Teeth With Dental Implants

Fort Worth dental implantsMissing teeth can take a toll on your appearance and self-confidence. Getting a fixed bridge is an option that many people decide upon. To anchor the pontic (artificial tooth), your dentist has to reduce two adjacent teeth, which will be used as an anchor. Instead of modifying perfectly sound teeth, consider dental implants in Fort Worth.

The main goal in dentistry is to conserve and restore missing or damaged teeth. With that in mind, getting dental implants has become the treatment of choice that most dentists prefer. Instead of reducing vital enamel from teeth that are in good condition, a titanium post is gently placed into your alveolar bone to anchor the pontic. Since titanium has the best osseointegration properties, the chance of rejection is little to none.

Your dentist will need to make sure that your alveolar bone is dense enough for the treatment. When you are found to be a good candidate for dental implants, the procedure can be speedily performed in the clinic. A small slit is made on your gums to give the post a point of entry. Local anesthetic will be given beforehand to make the area numb. When the procedure is done, you will feel only a slight discomfort.

The beauty of the dental implant procedure is that it does not damage sound enamel and dentin. You can also enjoy eating the food you love without the fear of your appliance falling off. The pontics used are sturdy and can withstand almost the same biting or masticatory forces as your natural teeth.

Dental implants are not like your usual prosthodontic appliance that requires adjustments every few years. The titanium post is durable, with proper care and regular visits to your dentist, it will last for a lifetime. Just like natural teeth, you can floss the area around it to prevent plaque build-up. With fixed bridges, you would not be able to do so.

The placement of dental implants must be performed by a licensed practitioner with experience in this field of dentistry. Invest in a boost of self-confidence by asking our experienced dentistry team more about this innovative treatment today.

November 18, 2011

Is Flossing Possible With Braces?

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with realigning the teeth that exhibit improper occlusion. Getting braces in Fort Worth is a popular way of getting straight and even teeth. Depending on the type of malocclusion, the treatment can last for approximately two years or longer. In that span of time, you should make it a point to reduce the risk of plaque build-up.

Many people wonder if it’s possible to floss with braces. The answer is yes! It is true that flossing through braces will take a bit more effort than what one is used to. You can use an orthodontic toothbrush with a pick at the end to help get rid of plaque found in the diastema, or area between the teeth. However, flossing is preferred because it clears the whole area and is a helpful adjunct to brushing your teeth. Your orthodontist will gladly teach you a few tricks about flossing with braces.

Using regular dental floss, cut off a few inches and slip one end under the arch wire. Take hold of the tip and guide it toward the diastema. Make use of the sawing technique to debride the area of plaque. Repeat this step three to five times. Try not to hit the arch wire and stay away from the brackets to avoid dislodging them.

You can also use a floss threader if you can’t quite get used to the above mentioned. Always remember that the area between the teeth needs to be kept clean. Plaque build-up turns to calculus, which leads to gum problems and even tooth loss. Carious lesions may also develop if you fail to keep the interproximal spaces clean.

Having braces is the best way to get teeth that are enviably straight. If you neglect your oral hygiene, you would have wasted your effort. Make flossing part of your daily habit. For any questions about how you can keep your mouth in pristine condition, call 817.918.4199 to schedule a consultation today.

November 7, 2011

How Successful Is a Root Canal Treatment?

Root Canal Fort WorthRoot canal therapy is a conservative procedure performed by a dentist to save an infected natural tooth. This treatment is taught in dental school so every dentist is experienced in the area of endodontics. Getting a root canal in Fort Worth Texas, is a common procedure.

This therapy is performed on a patient with an infected root canal. This infection is common in patients who have a cavity that is left untreated. A cavity is formed by a breakdown caused by acid and bacteria. Our mouth is filled with microorganisms that thrive on carbohydrates from the food we eat and excrete acid. They are part of the oral cavity and aid in digestion. When a person has poor oral hygiene, these organisms increase in number, and they begin to eat into our enamel and dentin.
Blunt force to a tooth can kill the pulp, also causing an infection. If the blood flow from the alveolar bone is cut off, the patient may require root canal therapy as well. Tooth fractures are also a possible entryway for bacteria. Periodontal disease can lead to pulp infection. When the pulp dies, this can cause an abscess to form around the tooth and infect the jawbone.

When performed correctly, there is about a 90% success rate for root canal treatment. The main pulp chamber and accessory canals have to be completely debrided to ensure that bacteria does not remain behind. The teeth that receive treatment may become brittle in time, and that makes them susceptible to fractures. A patient is usually advised to have a crown placed over the affected tooth. This is done to rebuild it and keep it safe from secondary infection.

Getting root canal therapy will protect you from possible complications like abscesses and alveolar bone infection. Aside from the health benefits, this procedure allows you to keep your natural tooth and it decreases the chance of jaw shrinkage.

If you have teeth that are sensitive to hot or cold food and exhibit pain upon biting down, you may be a candidate for root canal therapy. Schedule an appointment with our Fort Worth dentistry team as soon as possible.

October 27, 2011

Tooth Decay: Will I need a dental crown?

Technically, tooth decay is an infection, and a commonly treated dental disease. Similar to other diseases, early detection and proper treatment are best for your health. Routine dental examinations, proper homecare, and a healthy diet are essential to preventing the spread of decay.

Still, even with the proper precautions, tooth decay is just as prevalent in adulthood as it is in childhood. When detected early, your dentist can restore a diseased tooth by placing a simple filling. When the decay has spread towards the center of the tooth, a more substantial restoration, such as a dental crown, may be the best choice. In cases where the decay has reached the nerve, or pulp, a root canal may be indicated, followed by a protective dental crown.

Your dentist may recommend crowns in Fort Worth in cases where the integrity of the tooth structure has been compromised. Compared to a filling, which essentially “fills” a space within the tooth, a dental crown is used to cap and protect the entire tooth. By encircling the tooth, a crown can hold the tooth together, providing the strength necessary for biting and chewing.

Dental crowns can be created from a variety of materials, according to your specific needs. Crowns made of precious and semi-precious metals are generally used to restore the back teeth, due to their ability to withstand the tremendous forces required for chewing. Where esthetics is a factor, these crowns can be coated with porcelain, shaded to blend with the natural teeth. Beautiful all-ceramic crowns can be used to restore front teeth for the most natural-looking result.

Today’s dental philosophy is to save all natural teeth whenever possible. This means that tooth decay is no longer an acceptable reason to remove an otherwise healthy tooth. Advancements in dentistry have made it possible to restore most teeth to their natural beauty and function. Dental crowns are one such method to protect and preserve your teeth.

It is assuring to know that tooth decay no longer equals tooth loss. To find out how a dental crown can be used to save your tooth, call 817.918.4199 for your appointment today.

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