How to Prepare for Dental Emergencies
Many people make sure they are prepared for medical emergencies, but few consider the importance of being prepared for a dental emergency. Dental emergencies do happen, and being prepared and knowing what to do can make the difference between losing a tooth and being able to preserve that tooth.
It is particularly important to be prepared for dental emergencies if you have crowns, fillings, bridges or dentures. Small children are also more prone to dental emergencies.
One way to prepare for a possible emergency is to have a first aid kit ready. This kit can be included with your standard medical first aid kit, but should be constructed specifically to deal with dental issues. Basic contents could include:
• Ibuprofen
• Orajel
• Gauze
• A small cup
• Mouthwash, preferably salt-based
• A small container with a lid
• Toothpaste
These basic items will help you manage pain due to a dental injury, stop bleeding, and even preserve a dislodged tooth, crown or filling so you can bring it to your dentist. A lost tooth can be held in a cup filled with milk or warm water, while a dislodged filling or crown can be placed in a small container with a lid. Gauze and salt water mouthwash are useful to cleanse the mouth and stop bleeding. Also important to include are the phone numbers of your local dentist. If you are traveling, add phone numbers of dentists in the area where you are going.
By taking these precautions, you can always be prepared in case of a dental emergency. And, of course, be sure to call your Plano dentist as soon as possible to receive the best follow-up and long term care.
Standard dental implants v. mini-dental implants
Denture wearers annoyed by slippage and discomfort now have a better alternative thanks to the latest advance in implant dentistry offered, mini-dental implants. These devices help to secure a denture arch and keep it in place, helping a denture wearer to chew and speak more naturally.
As their name implies, mini-dental implants, or MDIs, are smaller than standard dental implants. MDIs are typically between two and three millimeters in diameter, while standard dental implants range between around four and six millimeters. MDIs are similar in shape to standard implants, and they are topped by a ball-shaped structure. Because of their smaller size, MDIs are often a solution for patients with bone loss that does not accommodate full-size implants.
During the procedure, the dentist will place a series of four to six MDIs in the jawbone. The denture will have the same number of grooves drilled into its underside, and the grooves are then fitted with metal housings that slide into place over the top of the MDI.
Unlike standard dental implants, MDIs sometimes can be placed without an incision because they are so thin. Using a local anesthetic, they are often placed right through the gums directly into the underlying bone. This process allows them to integrate immediately.
Because the procedure for MDIs is less invasive than the traditional alternative and requires less healing time, the denture can be loaded atop the implants immediately and the patient can even eat later that day. MDIs also tend to cost less than traditional implants, so they are a good option for patients with limited budgets.
Please contact a Dallas dental implants specialist for more information and to schedule a consultation.
Is sedation dentistry the best option for me?
Does even the thought of dental work make you jittery? If yes, then you are not alone. Thousands of people put off or forego much needed dental services due to dental anxiety. Dental treatment can be a high stress situation and can trigger significant anxiety levels in many, a huge detriment to getting optimal dental care, especially treatment that involves oral surgery. Avoiding timely dental treatment often results in neglect of your health and can lead to compromises in appearance, chewing function and even jaw problems.
Sedation dentistry is a great option in such situations. Using modern pharmacological aids, sedation dentistry aims to make the dental experience totally stress free – it’s actually as if you sleep through your dental work! Sedation dentistry is specially suited to those with significant dental anxiety (including children) or when a prolonged procedure is anticipated, such as dental implant, periodontal or third molar surgeries, which can cause fatigue.
Sedation is a relaxed, easy, tranquillized state of mind, produced while being conscious. Various routes can be used to administer sedative drugs. The most popular method is oral sedatives; swallowing a sedative drug before the procedure. Once you’re comfortable and sedated, the local anaesthetic injection is administered. Oral sedatives are usually preferred when a light sedation is required.
For deeper sedation, an almost sleep like state, intravenous sedatives are preferred. IV sedatives are very safe, and can be used by a specially trained sedation dentist. Although you do not actually sleep through the treatment, are conscious and can respond to instructions, you will have little memory of the dental sitting. A treatment that took an hour can seem like a few minutes! Other sedation options include laughing gas or nitrous oxide, which can be inhaled.
Sedation dentistry is safely and effectively practiced in the dental office and does not have any side effects. It is however important to expect to feel sleepy later and have someone to drive you home. Call us to learn more about sedation dentistry in Dallas.
Will I Still Have to Wear a Retainer After Invisalign?
For those with minor misalignments in their teeth, Invisalign is an excellent orthodontics option to correct these misalignments. Using clear plastic aligner trays rather than metal braces, Invisalign is more comfortable than traditional orthodontics. Invisalign trays are also practically invisible, so no one has to know you are receiving orthodontic treatment.
After Invisalign treatment has been completed, it will be necessary for you to wear a retainer. The retainer is placed to be sure your teeth remain in their new position, keeping your new, attractive smile intact. Your dentist will provide instructions on how long you will need to wear the retainer.
There are several different types of retainers. In many cases, if you have completed an Invisalign treatment, the final aligner tray or a duplicate of that tray can serve as your retainer. Typically, you will need to wear the tray at night.
In some cases, your dentist might recommend a fixed retainer. This is a metal retainer that is permanently attached to the backs of your teeth. It is very efficient at keeping your teeth properly aligned, but can provide a challenge when you are cleaning your teeth. Another option is a removable metal retainer, much like the retainer many adolescents wear after traditional orthodontic treatment. Although using or wearing a retainer might seem like a nuisance, it will help you keep the new smile you have been able to achieve through Invisalign treatment.
For more information about Invisalign, how it works and what recommendations your dentist provides regarding wearing a retainer, please contact a dentist with experience in Invisalign in Plano.
All-on-Four Dental Implants
Although denture wearers often complain of discomfort and poor fit, dentures historically have been the only option for edentulous patients. Now, people who are missing all of their upper or lower teeth have an alternative—All-on-Four dental implants.
The basic All-on-Four process is similar to traditional dental implants, with the dentist anchoring each implant, which looks like a small metal screw, into the jawbone in a relatively simple outpatient procedure. While single implants involve the placement of a lone artificial tooth atop the implant, the All-on-Four variety relies on a complete arch of fabricated teeth that slides over the implants. The underside of the arch features four grooves into which the implants fit.
The main issue that has kept edentulous patients from benefiting from dental implant technology is jawbone resorption. A tooth’s roots help to keep the underlying jawbone from receding, so when the tooth is lost, along with the accompanying root, the bone is more likely to erode over time. Multiple missing teeth compound the problem. Because traditional implant procedures require an adequate bone structure to place the implant, patients with more than a couple of missing teeth were excluded as candidates. Bone grafts offered one solution, but that approach was often an unattractive one for patients due to the extensive surgery and recovery time it entails.
All-on-Four implants overcome this problem by maximizing the remaining amount of bone. The anterior jaw, or the area of bone near the front of the mouth, is typically the last to dissolve. With All-on-Four implants, dentists are able to insert all four implants in close proximity in the anterior jaw. The two outside implants are angled below the gum surface so that the jaw has room to accommodate them, but the part that extends above the gum is straight so that the arch of replacement teeth easily slides into place.
All-on-Four implants can be placed within a short treatment timeframe, allowing patients to leave the dental office with a full set of teeth after a single appointment. If you’ve struggled with dentures, or even resigned yourself to going without teeth, consider the All-on-Four procedure as another possible solution.
To find out more about the All-on-Four procedure, please contact our Dallas dental implant center.
A Stellar Dental Restoration with Porcelain Veneers
Does your smile make you ashamed? We see patients every day who are completely embarrassed by the state of their teeth. We know there are many more out there who are too embarrassed to even come into the office. When you feel this level of discomfort towards your own smile, it’s difficult to feel confident around friends and family, let alone strangers. The good news is that you don’t have to experience that feeling much longer. With porcelain veneers, we can do some great work on your smile!
Discolored, cracked, chipped, or gapped teeth can be corrected using porcelain veneers. At Plano Smile Studio, we offer the best: Empress veneers. These thin strips of porcelain reflect light, just like the sheen of your natural teeth. They are also incredibly strong, which means they’ll last. Veneers blend in perfectly, so when you meet someone new, they will have no idea that you’ve had dental work done!
The Veneer Process
For dramatic results, veneers are normally placed on all of the teeth that show when you smile. The veneer only covers the front of your tooth, so it’s like putting a mask over your displeasing teeth. To place a veneer, we will remove a thin layer of enamel from the front of your tooth, then we will roughen the surface to create a good area for bonding. We will take the veneers that have been crafted for you in the lab and get a perfect fit before we bond them permanently into place.
Porcelain veneers could very well be the answer to your smile woes. Don’t let embarrassment and discomfort keep you from enjoying life any more! Contact us today to set up a consultation, where you can tell us exactly what you want for your smile. We can’t wait to see the look on your face when your veneers are complete!
Keep Your Wisdom, Lose the Troublesome Teeth
It happens more often than not; a dentist tells you it’s time to get rid of those wisdom teeth! Older teenagers hear it most because that’s when we start to see problems before they happen, but sometimes wisdom teeth don’t present problems until much later. When the dentist says it’s time to do teeth extractions, there could be a lot of things running through your head, so we would like to give some idea of what’s really going on and how to handle this news!
What’s Happening to My Teeth?
This question is especially pertinent for patients who have always had healthy teeth! Why are the wisdom teeth going insane? There are a lot of causes, but wisdom teeth often don’t have room to grow correctly, so they break through (or get stuck trying) in whatever way they can. We can’t just let it go, though, because teeth that are stuck (impacted) can cause cysts or tumors, and teeth that are growing in the wrong way can cause damage to surrounding teeth or collect so much bacteria that they get infected.
What Can You Do?
Our solution for most wisdom teeth problems is a dental extraction. There are two types, simple and surgical, and we will decide which to use depending on your situation. Simple means we can see the tooth enough to remove it from the outside, while surgical means it is still below the surface, and we’ll have to get to the tooth before we remove it. When you come in for your procedure, we will make sure you are absolutely comfortable with sedation and local anesthesia before we begin. When you’re ready, we will remove the teeth. A couple days of rest and antibiotics will get you back to normal in no time!
Removing troublesome wisdom teeth is an important part of setting yourself up for a healthy dental life as an adult. If you haven’t been to the office since you were a kid, it’s probably time to see us and find out what’s going on in there! Contact us to set up your appointment, and we’ll answer any questions you might have while you’re here! Let us help you get a healthier smile with or without your wisdom teeth!
Make a Plan For Your Four Minutes
We love seeing you every six months for a dental cleaning, but that isn’t enough to maintain a healthy smile. You really need to follow a dental hygiene routine in order to prevent things like decay, infection, and discoloration of your teeth. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends your six month cleaning, flossing every evening, and brushing for two minutes every morning and evening. That’s a total of four minutes that you will be brushing everyday. It can be difficult to get that time in, so we’ve put together a list of tips to help you get your four minutes!
1) Use That Smartphone!
Most people are carrying a small computer in their pocket these days. That smartphone is great for helping you remember all sorts of things, including brushing your teeth! Set an alarm to go off in the morning and in the evening. You can even add a message to yourself! Then, use the timer app to make sure you are getting a full two minutes at each brushing.
2) Grab Accountability
Grab a loved one or friend (bonus points if they live in your home with you) and do this challenge together! Brush at the same time, and help one another time those four minutes. Having accountability is a great way to make sure things get done!
3) Grab a New Toothbrush
Toothbrush companies are on board with the two minute brushing session! They have created automatic toothbrushes that won’t turn off until they’ve been running for two minutes! This ensures that you will get the recommended brushing time without having to think about it!
Your oral hygiene routine is the most important thing for your overall oral health. Next time you brush your teeth, time yourself. We would almost guarantee that you aren’t hitting that two minute mark! If you’re very bold, let us know your time at your next appointment! Contact us to set it up! We’d love to hear how your four minutes are going. See you soon!
Dallas Invisalign
There is a new option for patients who wish for straighter teeth and a more functional bite without the unsightliness of conventional braces. For the “ideal” patient – Dr. Hucklebridge believes good results can be achieved using Invisalign for particular patients, which provides a tooth straightening alternative.
Invisalign treatment begins with a visit to Dr. Hucklebridge, who will then discuss whether or not Invisalign is an appropriate treatment plan and schedule an appointment to take molds of your teeth. These molds are sent to a lab where a system of mouth guard-style aligning devices will be fabricated, each one a couple millimeters different than the last until the ideal tooth position is realized with the final appliance.
Approximately every two weeks you will visit Dr. Hucklebridge, who will monitor the movement of your teeth and provide the next aligning mouth guard. The average treatment time with Invisalign is approximately 11 months.
Having a confident smile can change everything. With Invisalign you can get a stunning smile without most people even noticing you’re going through treatment.
So start on the right track today, and find out more about Invisalign at Plano Smile Studio
Vizilite
Greetings from Plano Smile Studio!
I’m thrilled to announce the latest powerful technology addition to our office: a brand new oral cancer screening process called ViziLite.
It is a simple, FDA approved cancer screening process that can actually save your life. It is composed of a chemiluminescent light source (ViziLite) to improve the identification of cancerous lesions and a blue phenothiazine dye to mark those lesions identified by ViziLite. Early detection is the strongest tool we have in the fight against oral cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society, estimates reveal that more new cases of oral cancer will be diagnosed in 2008 than new cases of cervical cancer. In fact, it is estimated that there will be 34,000 new cases of oral cancer with 8000 fatalities this year, versus just 11,070 new cervical cancer cases; over three times the instances. What is of significant concern is that 25% of this group will have no predisposing factors, such as tobacco or alcohol use, or even a family history of ANY type of cancers.
We at Plano Smile Studio have implemented this new screening technology and will be talking with you about it at your next dental cleaning visit. If you have any questions please feel free to call or visit us today!
To learn more about this groundbreaking new screening process, please visit the ViziLite web page.
In health,
Dr. John M. Hucklebridge
Memorial Day wishes
We would like to extend our best wishes to you for a great Memorial Day weekend. From our family to yours, have a safe and happy holiday.
We’ve got some very exciting things happening around here at the new Plano Smile Studio and can’t wait to share them with you. More details to follow!
Kindest Regards,
Dr. Hucklebridge, Stephanie, and Jan
How do I brush my teeth?
Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.
· Move the brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes.
· Brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
· Use the “toe” of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.
· Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
· Reprinted in part from the American Dental Association “Caring For Your Teeth and Gums” guide.
The Advantages of Bridges
The moment you realize that a severe dental condition has caused you to lose majority of your teeth, you immediately end up in tears. Who can blame you? No thanks to an incomplete set of pearly whites, you may have to turn down invitations to attend your friend’s wedding or a cousin’s birthday because you believe that other people won’t show you an ounce of respect in the event that they discover your embarrassing secret.
You may also prefer to remain silent in the company of your loved ones since you can’t expect them to fully understand you once you start talking. Furthermore, you may not be able to receive an adequate amount of nutrients from your food due to your inability to properly bite and chew. Luckily for you, your Texas dentist has advised you to receive bridges. Although getting bridges seems like a wonderful idea, you first need to determine whether they’re the best option for you by carefully considering their advantages below.
Advantages
• Bring back your attractive appearance. Bridges closely resemble and function like your natural teeth, giving you back your aesthetically pleasing appearance.
• Eliminate the difficulties you encounter whenever you speak. With all of your teeth firmly inside your mouth, you can easily pronounce your words.
• Allow you to receive enough nutrients from your food. A complete set of teeth makes it possible for you to bite and chew your food well.
• Stable. Bridges are fixed into position, saving you the trouble of having to find ways to prevent them from dropping out of your mouth.
For additional details on the advantages of bridges, you may call your Plano dentist or book a consultation with him by calling 972-398-2550.
Whiter Teeth in Just One Visit
With all the teeth whitening solutions available out there, to still have discolored or stained teeth nowadays is like a disservice to one’s self. You owe it to yourself to take care of your teeth, to be able to smile confidently and feel good about yourself and it only takes a single appointment with an expertly trained and experienced teeth whitening specialist like Plano TX dentist Dr. John Hucklebridge to give you that sparkling set of pearly whites.
Texas dentist Dr. Hucklebridge makes use of the Zoom professional teeth whitening treatment at his Plano Smile Studio dental clinic. This in-office, laser-assisted method takes only one visit to do and yet you’re already getting the full treatment that already includes plaque removal before the actual procedure and the post-treatment maintenance take-home whitening gel for a complete whitening package that can last for years.
In as short as an hour, Zoom whitening can safely turn your teeth eight shades whiter, without harming your teeth and gums, and with the at-home maintenance easily done using the take-home custom trays. Swearing by the effectiveness of Zoom are the over 10 million patients who have previously tried and tested it and how it gives brighter and healthier smiles, making it the #1 patient-requested teeth whitening treatment.
Dr. Hucklebridge can easily adjust the intensity settings to ensure minimal discomfort. During the procedure, desensitizers can also be quickly applied to address the slight sensitivity you might experience while at the same time, protecting your tooth enamel. If for any reason you can’t come for the in-office treatment, he can instead supervise the Zoom at-home whitening that you’ll only need to wear for an hour twice in a day from between seven to fourteen days. This product also contains amorphous calcium phosphate that helps to improve the luster and smoothness of teeth.
So what are you waiting for? Call the Plano Smile Studio in Texas now at 972-398-2550 for an appointment with Dr. Hucklebridge and pretty soon you’ll be bidding your stained teeth goodbye.
A Background on Dental Bonding
Staring at a set of wonderful-looking teeth everyday never ceases to put a smile on your face. For starters, you can easily invite your special someone to go out with you on a Saturday night. Secondly, you can attend various social functions without feeling insecure with the way you look. Aside from that, you can confidently answer questions thrown at you during job interviews. Therefore, as soon as cavities start making their way into your teeth, the joy that you feel immediately turns into disappointment. Fortunately, you don’t have to live with unattractive teeth for a long time thanks to the dental bonding services that your Plano dentist offers.
To give you an idea on what dental bonding really is, we have prepared a background on it below:
Dental bonding defined
Dental bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves placing a tooth-colored resin material on the decayed, chipped, fractured, or discolored areas of your teeth. This material is capable of bonding to your teeth, bringing back their natural appearance.
The dental bonding process
During the dental bonding process, your dentist first chooses the color of the bonding material that perfectly matches your teeth’s color using a shade guide. Upon determining the appropriate color, your dentist roughens up your teeth’s surface areas. He then applies a conditioning liquid to your teeth, so that the bonding material can firmly attach to them. After preparing your teeth, your dentist places the bonding material on the affected areas and moulds it until it reaches its desired shape. Once your dentist is done shaping the bonding material, he uses an ultraviolet laser to harden it. Finally, your dentist puts the finishing touches on the bonding material by further trimming it and polishing it.
If you have any inquiries on dental bonding, you’re very much welcome to visit Dr. John Hucklebridge here at Plano Smile Studio. You may also call 972-398-2550 or accomplish our online form to schedule an appointment with your Texas dentist.
Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment Options
Cosmetic dentistry can help correct a wide variety of issues with your teeth. If there is anything about your smile that makes you self-conscious or hesitant to smile, chances are a cosmetic dentist can help
Some of the most commonly used cosmetic dentistry procedures include:
· Porcelain veneers
· Crowns, inlays and onlays
· Dental implants
· Invisalign
· Teeth whitening
Porcelain veneers can be used to correct a wide range of cosmetic issues. Easily placed in the dental office, veneers are custom made and color-matched to give you a completely natural look. They can help correct cracked, chipped or pitted teeth, heavily discolored teeth that do not respond to teeth whitening, and can even disguise slight misalignment or small gaps between the teeth.
For more severe misalignment of teeth, Invisalign provides an alternative to traditional braces. Made of transparent plastic, Invisalign aligner trays are discreet and can even be removed when necessary, making them much less restrictive than other forms of orthodontic treatment.
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures. Teeth become stained easily due to everyday wear and tear as well as exposure to staining agents such as tea, coffee and cigarettes. Teeth whitening, performed in the dentist’s office, can lighten your teeth dramatically in a single visit.
Dental implants provide a permanent, customized and comfortable solution to missing teeth. Unlike dentures, implants remain stationary in your mouth, preventing discomfort or embarrassment. They also help maintain the long-term health of your jaw by providing a replacement for the tooth root as well as the visible tooth structure.
Dental inlays and onlays can help improve the appearance of irregular or chipped teeth. Using a tooth-colored composite, your cosmetic dentist fills in missing pieces of your tooth or reshapes the tooth as necessary to improve its appearance.
To find out what cosmetic dentistry procedures might be right for you, please contact a cosmetic dentist in Plano. A consultation to discuss your individual needs will help you decide how best to restore your perfect smile.
Why is porcelain an ideal material to use for veneers?
When it comes to repairing damaged teeth, patients prefer the use of the most lifelike materials possible. After all, a visibly artificial restoration is almost as detrimental to the smile’s appearance as the crack or chip it’s intended to conceal.
Porcelain veneers are particularly popular for aesthetically pleasing dental work.
A cosmetic dentist can use veneers to cover up any number of problems, including chips, cracks or stains, when conventional whitening treatments have been ineffective. Veneers can even help to straighten misaligned teeth.
Porcelain is an excellent choice for veneers for a number of reasons. First, porcelain reflects light in a fashion similar to tooth enamel. This gives the material a lifelike aesthetic, and makes it hard to discern a veneer apart from the real tooth next to it.
Porcelain veneers are also much more durable than you would expect. People think of porcelain as a fragile material, but when used in veneers, it is sturdy enough to last for a decade or more. In fact, porcelain is comparable to biological tooth enamel in terms of durability.
To maximize the benefits and lifespan of veneers, proper care is essential. Be sure to maintain consistent oral hygiene habits to minimize the presence of bacteria that may compromise the tooth as well as any veneers you have.
The thin, tooth-shaped shells are slim enough to sit atop the teeth after the removal of a small layer of enamel, which creates room for the veneers. Depending on the thickness of the veneer, this step may or may not be necessary.
The treatment process involved in veneers is speedy. It can be completed in as little as two appointments, separated by just a few weeks. Veneers are placed right in the dentist’s office, too.
Patients who want to restore a marred smile will want to look into porcelain veneers and all of the benefits they offer. Contact the office of Dr. John M. Hucklebridge to find out if this treatment option will be beneficial to you.
Dr. John M. Hucklebridge on “Hot On Health And Beauty”
Dr. Hucklebridge: When I was 15, I decided that I was looking at art and science, and I like both of them. So, I thought that dentistry would probably be a good combination of both of them.
Narrator: In the 20 years since, Dr. Hucklebridge has raised his medical expertise to an art form as technology has changed.
Dr. Hucklebridge: With the advent of the new porcelains, materials, bonding agents, that’s what’s really catapulted dentistry into the cosmetic arena. My emphasis, in my practice, is cosmetic dentistry. That’s where my passion is. Do I practice general dentistry? Absolutely. As far as the type of dentistry that I like to do, smile makeovers, Invisalign, clear braces, implants, teeth whitening, those are all components of cosmetic dentistry, and that’s what we emphasis in our practice.
Narrator: Dr. Hucklebridge and his staff are intent on helping each patient decide what will bring the best result.
Stephanie: We try to treat all of our patients like they are part of our family. He treats, and I treat, our patients like they’re family members – how we’d want our family to be treated.
Dr. Hucklebridge: I like to do everything. As far as the number one procedure that is my favorite, I would have to say full mouth reconstruction. Taking someone that has that debilitated smile, someone who’s had self-confidence issues, esteem issues, and completely revamping that smile and making that person proud to smile and giving them self-esteem that they never had.
Narrator: Like this patient.
Dr. Hucklebridge: Jason came to me. Actually, I was called in the middle of the night. Jason had an accident. He lost several teeth in the front along with some bone. So, along with working with some excellent specialist here in town, we went in and did some bone augmentation. We had to do some tissue augmentation on top of the bone. We actually had to go in and temporize Jason for months. Once all that healed, we were actually able to place the implants in the areas that we had removed the teeth, and then we had to wait for that to heal. Once that healed, we went in and restored him with porcelain crowns on teeth that we could save, and implant crowns on teeth that we couldn’t. The case turned out great.
Jason: I come to John, and I don’t stray from that, because he is the ultimate perfectionist. He absolutely demands that every bit of my mouth, from the guns, to the teeth, to the shape, to the color, has got to be perfect.
Carolyn: He’s not satisfied until he has it just right, and even if he thinks it’s fine he wants to make sure you like it.
Stephanie: We do see only one patient at a time. Dr. Hucklebridge may have to excuse himself to a hygiene patient, but he’s not doing any other treatment up against our patients.
Dr. Hucklebridge: I never aspired to have the model of dentistry where I was going from room to room. I want my one-hundred percent focus to be on the patient that I’m with at that period of time, and from start to finish and run on time, so my next patient doesn’t wait. It’s worked out well the way I want to practice. You know, I love what I do, and I just absolutely love it.
Jason: I’ve done the due diligence for you. Just walk in there and you’ll walk out happy.
My Gums Bleed When I Brush: Should I Be Concerned?
Bleeding is never a sign of good health. Instead, it’s an inflammatory response that alerts you when your body is trying to recover from some form of trauma. It’s a sign that something is wrong. Identifying the cause of the bleeding and taking steps to resolve the issue can prevent the problem from becoming more advanced.
Discussing bleeding as well as your other symptoms with your dentist should be the first step towards resolving the problem. There are a number of factors that could contribute to the presence of bleeding during brushing:
· Gum disease (even the very earliest stages of gum disease can cause inflammation and bleeding, symptoms may occur with or without pain)
· Dry mouth ( when the gums around the front teeth are dry due to open-mouth breathing, medications, or health conditions, you may notice bleeding and constant inflammation that becomes more aggravated during brushing)
· Incorrect Brushing Technique (aggressive brushing and/or hard toothbrush bristles can cause considerable and irreversible damage to both your gums and teeth)
· Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, and other changes in hormone levels can cause sensitivity and bleeding and tenderness even with careful brushing and flossing)
· Nutritional deficiencies/ Poor health (many underlying health conditions can affect the way that the body responds to plaque bacteria and other irritants, triggering excessive redness and bleeding)
Although there are many treatable causes for bleeding gums, you should never ignore or dismiss your symptoms. Sometimes bleeding gums are a signal of an underlying, uncontrolled, or undiagnosed health condition. Seeking a professional dental evaluation as soon as possible can confirm the source of the bleeding and resolve a potentially harmful condition. Your condition may require further dental care, a change in your homecare habits, or a consultation with your physician.
If you have noticed bleeding gums or any other abnormal symptoms, visit the office of Dr. John M. Hucklebridge to schedule your professional dental exam.
Keeping Teeth Healthy During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, it’s important to protect your overall health, and that certainly includes your dental health. In fact, it is recommended that women who are planning to become pregnant should be free from cavities and gum disease prior to conceiving.
In preparation for pregnancy, during pregnancy, and during the months following the birth, your dentist is prepared to provide the appropriate dental care for your changing needs. Current research has shown a strong link between certain dental diseases and the outcome of the pregnancy. Studies indicate an increase in the incidence rate of low birth-weight babies and pre-term deliveries in mothers who have uncontrolled periodontal disease.
Aside from gum disease, there are a number of other dental conditions that are frequently seen during pregnancy:
· Hormonal changes can lead to bleeding and inflammation (careful, but thorough plaque control each day can minimize inflammation)
· Frequent eating and snacking can contribute to an increased risk for tooth decay (diligent brushing and flossing to remove plaque and food particles are essential during this time)
· Acid reflux and nausea can lead to acid erosion and cavities (drinking or rinsing with water and chewing sugarless gum helps to neutralize harmful acids)
· Dry mouth due to inflamed nasal passages and nighttime mouth breathing can lead to inflamed gums and tooth decay (increasing the water intake or using saliva substitutes will help to keep the tissues moisturized)
A large part of maintaining excellent dental health during pregnancy is based on effective homecare and regularly scheduled dental visits. Though pregnancy is a busy and exciting time, it’s no time to avoid or postpone your dental care. You’ll need a strong support system in order to protect your health as well as the health of your new bundle of joy. With your dentist as part of your support system, you can keep your teeth healthy during your pregnancy and beyond. For your complete examination and checkup, call Plano Smile Studio at 972-398-2550.
Is Fear Keeping You Away from the Dentist?
Few patients are actually excited about the thought of going to a dental appointment. In fact, most patients will admit that they usually love their dentists and the staff, but just don’t enjoy have dental work done. While some patients may be able to manage and work through these feelings, there are millions each year who find the anxiety difficult or impossible to overcome.
As an alternative to simply ignoring the need for dental care, an increasing number of patients are finding that sedation dentistry can provide the more appropriate solution. With sedation, even the most apprehensive patients can calm their fears and open the door to a wide range of dental procedures. From a routine dental cleaning to a surgical dental implant procedure, it is possible to relax in the dental chair, and even sleep, as your dental work is completed by a team of experienced professionals.
There are a number of safe and commonly recommended methods to help you achieve relaxation, and these methods are available for both children and adults. The sedation alternative that is best for you will be dependent upon the extent of your apprehension and the current state of your overall health. You’ll need to discuss any underlying health conditions, allergies, and medications with your dentist during your consultation in order to receive the proper recommendation. For your personal safety, you may also need to be accompanied by a responsible adult driver both before and after your treatment.
Your fear of dental treatment may stem from a previously unpleasant dental experience, the inability to tolerate a particularly lengthy procedure, or a general uneasiness in regard to your dental health. Communicating your concerns with your dentist and the dental team can help to uncover the most ideal coping methods for your situation.
Choosing sedation dentistry can enable you to receive the essential healthcare that you need in the most pleasant setting possible. You’ll no longer be imprisoned by the fear that has prevented you from enjoying the healthy, beautiful smile that you desire. Learn more by calling Plano Smile Studio at 972-398-2550 today.
How Stress Can Affect Your Oral Health
To maintain optimal oral health, a delicate balance must be maintained. The management of plaque bacteria, the way that your teeth fit together, your diet, and the proper function of your immune system must all work together in harmony. When one or more of these factors is affected, your oral health can suffer significantly.
The presence of stress, both physical and emotional, is a factor that can throw off the balance that is necessary for your oral health. Your dentist understands the impact of stress on your teeth and gums. That’s why routine dental visits and periodic exams are so important to your dental and your overall health. These visits provide the opportunity for the diagnosis and management of dental conditions that are beyond your control.
During times of stress, normal irritants such as plaque bacteria may suddenly become extremely irritating to your gum tissue. The result is inflammation, bleeding, redness, and tenderness. Though these are the common characteristics of gingivitis, the onset of these symptoms may occur more rapidly and may not respond as readily to treatment.
For example, it is not uncommon for college students to experience acute gingivitis during final exams, women may experience exaggerated symptoms during menstruation and pregnancy, military personnel are at an increased risk during combat and millions of adults report the onset of symptoms during particularly stressful life events.
Untreated gingivitis and chronic or long-term inflammation can be particularly harmful to your general health. These conditions may lead to irreversible periodontal disease and other systemic diseases. Bleeding and tenderness during times of stress should not be overlooked, and in fact may be an indicator that you may need to practice extra careful oral hygiene as you manage the increased stress.
Remember that your dentist is here to assist you and guide you through the challenges of protecting your oral health. Additional cleanings, medicated mouthrinses, or other changes to your oral hygiene routine may be recommended to prevent damage and soothe your symptoms.
For a personalized examination and the appropriate treatment, contact the Plano dental office of Dr. John M. Hucklebridge.
What do your teeth say about your health?
Your teeth are certainly a reflection of your overall health. In fact, many aspects of your dental health can be directly attributed to the state of your dental health.
Like a forensic scientist, your dentist can tell a lot about the state of your health based on the condition of your teeth. Many common health conditions are known to have side effects that can impact your teeth. While you are probably aware of your health conditions, your dentist can help to explain how those conditions may change the way that you care for your teeth.
There are many underlying medical conditions that can be diagnosed very early during your routine dental exams. At each visit, should any unexplained dental condition be identified, you may be advised to contact your physician for further investigation.
A disorder as common as acid reflux or GERD can contribute to acid erosion on the teeth as well as unpleasant breath. As the enamel becomes eroded, you may notice sensitive teeth or an increase in tooth decay. This type of erosion is also commonly seen in patients who suffer from eating disorders such as bulimia.
There are hundreds of prescription and over-the-counter drugs that are known to cause chronic dry mouth. Without an adequate saliva flow, even normal eating and speaking can become painful. The lips and tongue may feel sticky or sore, and the teeth are more susceptible to cavities.
Patients who are diagnosed with a large number of cavities can typically look to their diets for answers to their dental problems. Consuming soft drinks, fruit juices, power drinks, and sweetened coffees throughout the day instantly increases your risk for cavities. Many adults who choose to sip drinks at their desks or during breaks are surprised that they develop far more cavities than they had ever experienced as children!
What do your teeth say about your health? If you are unsure of the answer, contact Plano Smile Studio at 972-398-2550 for a thorough examination today.
Sedation Dentistry: Will I feel groggy after treatment?
If you have ever experienced anxiety, fear, or even mild nervousness prior to a dental visit, then you are probably quite interested in the advantages of sedation dentistry. The ability to relax in the dental chair, and even snooze, while having your treatment completed, could completely transform your perception of dentistry.
Dr. John M. Hucklebridge, your dentist serving Plano TX, offers sedation dentistry to alleviate your concerns and to create a relaxing and comfortable environment for you. The sedation process has been proven to be safe, and the entire dental staff has the experience to care for you properly during your visit. However, it is still important that you know what to expect once your treatment has been completed.
Most patients will feel groggy and sleepy even after leaving the dental office. As with most commonly prescribed medications, it will take several hours for your body to metabolize the sedatives. For your safety, you will be advised to arrive with a responsible adult driver who can transport you from the dental office to your home.
Once arriving at home, you should refrain from driving or operating machinery, and you may feel inclined to sleep for a while. In fact, you should plan to relax at home for the remainder of the day or until you feel completely normal.
The exact length of time that is required to overcome the effects of the sedatives will depend upon several factors. Everyone metabolizes medications at slightly different rates, and that rate will be influenced by the amount of sedation that is required for your particular procedure. Prior to your treatment, Dr. Hucklebridge will review the plan for your sedation, including the type and dosage of the proposed medications.
Sedation dentistry enables millions of patients to receive the dental care that they need, and it proves that fear and anxiety can be overcome. Whether you are plagued by the lingering memory of a previously bad dental experience, or you are anticipating a lengthy and extensive procedure, it is important that you contact our skilled dental team to discuss your sedation options today.
Selecting Invisalign Orthodontics For You
There are many reasons for adults to have missed the orthodontics boat when they were younger. We traditionally think of orthodontics treatment taking place for middle school students, but not all students who need the work can have it done. Not all parents can afford the work, and not all students are willing to have the work done while they are in school. In rare cases, the orthodontic treatment doesn’t become necessary until later in life due to a lost adult tooth, or a similar problem.
An adult beginning the orthodontic process is often subject to embarrassment. Traditional metal braces draw attention, and patients feel uncomfortable wearing them to work or on dates. However, there is a better solution for adults who need orthodontics. With Invisalign clear aligner braces, you can get the orthodontic care you’ve always needed without any of the embarrassing side effects.
Invisalign Looks Better
For adults who have been hesitating to get orthodontics because they are concerned about the way they will look, we know you’ll be excited to find out that Invisalign takes care of these concerns! Invisalign is a system of clear aligners that fit perfectly over your teeth. Each aligner adds pressure to progressively move your teeth into their correct position. The amazing part is that no one will know you are wearing the aligners because they are so thin and clear! They blend perfectly with your teeth!
If you have been avoiding orthodontics, it’s time to give us a call. We have an option for you that will take your smile to the next level without anyone knowing you are having work done! Contact us today to set up a consultation. We would love to see you soon!
