Author: drummonddentalcare-WP-Team

A dental emergency is a medical situation that requires dire attention from a dentist. It usually involves oral health, ranging from teeth, gums, throat, lips, and jaw bone. It is the reason we have emergency dentists in Faifax readily available. Learning to rely on your dentist in Fairfax to cater to your oral health is a habit that can go a long way in sustaining your overall health. There is no telling when a dental emergency can happen, and whether or not to will have the kind of urgent care in Fairfax you would want. Besides, you may never know what causes your oral emergency, and what time of the day it happens.

What Causes A Dental Emergency?

Most Faifax emergency dentists tend to patients whose emergencies result from accidents. Falling on the staircase or having a car accident can all be reasons you need your Fairfax dentist. However, some of the injuries are accounted for by sporting activities. Dental emergencies are not only for kids who love to play around and can get hurt easily. Adults involved in intense sporting activities require a dentist in Farifax VA for when such oral emergencies occur.

What Kinds of Injuries Require Emergency Dental Care?

All oral conditions should not be rushed to a dentist in 22031 as dental emergencies. Sometimes, all you may be needing is a dental exam by a dentist near you. It is why it’s important to know what situations cut it as dental emergencies, and when you must see a doctor. Some of the situations include:

1. Missing tooth – if one or two of your teeth have been knocked out accidentally, there is cause to see a dentist. This is especially needful for adults because they no longer have new teeth to look forward to as do kids. The importance of calling a dentist is to control the bleeding and to restore the tooth before it is too late to save it.

2. Bleeding – bleeding can be expected when you accidentally bite your cheeks or scratch your gum when eating. However, the mouth is capable of controlling the bleeding that happens inside. Therefore, if you are experiencing continuous bleeding that will not stop, it should be a cause for alarm. The bleeding can indicate a severesevere oral situation, ranging from gum disease to oral cancer.

3. Temporomandibular joint dysfunction – do you feel pain in the joints of your mouth when you chew? Are you having a hard time opening your mouth fully? The joint that connects your upper and lower jaw is called the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). When the joint is dysfunctional, a lot of the mouth’s activities are paused. This could mean having your mouth stuck in the open position, or simply weird noises at the joint when you open and close your mouth.

4. Bleeding tongue – the tongue is a very powerful muscle. However, biting can be painful and uncomfortable. If you accidentally bite yourself and the bleeding will not stop, your dentist needs to be involved in the matter.

What to Do In Case of a Dental Emergency

1. Find the missing tooth – the idea is to retain your natural teeth for as long as possible. When one of them is knocked out, find it and keep it moist. You can use salty water to keep it moist while fighting the infection. However, if you are brave enough, try to restore the tooth in its socket. At all times, make sure you avoid touching the root of the tooth.

2. Use cold compress – this is especially needful for pain and swelling. It will help reduce inflammation and cool off some of the pain in the affected area.

3. Gargle clean water – clean water will help rinse off any dirt and bacteria that could cause infection. It also helps slow down the bleeding.

4. Call your dentist – if you have a family dentist, then call them. Otherwise, reach out to any dentist near you as soon as you can.

Precautions to Prevent Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies can be prevented in some of the following ways:

1. Wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth, especially during sports activities.

2. Avoiding hard things – this includes cutting, breaking, or opening things with your teeth.

3. Practice chewing properly – to prevent frequent accidental bites on your tongue or cheeks.

Losing one’s teeth can be a recurring nightmare for many people, and most of them would hope never to recreate in this in their waking lives. Unfortunately for many people however, tooth loss may be a reality at some phase in their adult lives. Tooth loss can happen because of decay and gum disease, or simply from an accident. While losing a tooth or many teeth will never be comfortable for any person, thankfully science has developed to the point where fake teeth can easily replace their natural counterpart. Dental implants are a boon for people who have lost teeth to resume life as normal, with a beautiful smile they’ve always had.

Dentist in Fairfax, VA fix dental implants surgically into the mouth by placing a titanium rod into the jaw bone, beneath the gumline. This acts as a base for a crown to eventually be fitted into the empty space. There must be enough strong bone for the rod to be placed, before the rod can be fixed into the jaw. In rare cases, a sinus lift or a bone graft may be needed to create a more stable surface for the implant to fit into. For the procedure of dental implant, Fairfax dentist also insists on healthy mouth and gums.

Components of the implant

Firstly, a titanium rod must be surgically fitted into the lower or upper jawbone to act as the anchor for the new tooth. After which, an abutment made of titanium, porcelain or gold is screwed into the titanium rod to serve as a foundation for the crown. Finally, the restoration or crown is cemented to the abutment. The crown used is mostly made of porcelain fused to a metal alloy and will look appear very much like a natural tooth.

Benefits of Dental Implant

One can opt for different kinds of dental restorations, as per their need, but dental implants come with some significant benefits.

– They help in improving bone health and density. When anyone chew on a dental implant, the action stimulates bone growth in the jaw.
– Dental implants appear like natural teeth. The dental crown on top of the implant is custom-made to match the teeth and gives a very natural look.
– Dental implants are good options for any area of the mouth, including the front teeth because they are stable and appear natural.
– Dental implants are long-lasting and with proper care, they can last two decades or even more.

Dental Implant Procedure

The dental implants procedure initiates with a full dental exam to identify any underlying oral health concerns. It is quite vital to address and treat systemic issues that may have led to the need for one’s implants before, during, and after the implants are fixed. This helps to ensure that implants are successfully placed as well as lead to proper healing and speedy recovery.

Once the dentist near you is confident that one has adequate healthy bone to receive the implant, they will proceed. First the area is numbed and if one suffers from anxiety about dental procedures, then the dentist may prescribe a sedative to take prior to the appointment, or they may have other options.

After the anesthetic comes into effect, the dentist in Fairfax will open the gum and drill a small hole in the jawbone. This is the time when the titanium post is screwed into the jaw. After this the dentist will replace the gum and allow the implant to heal before a second surgery to attach the dental crown and abutment.

How long does a dental implant procedure take?

The dental implant time for treatment varies from patient to patient and takes into consideration any hidden health concerns and the number of teeth replaced. If one is getting one dental implant in an otherwise healthy mouth, both receiving the abutment and the implant process and dental crown should normally take a couple hours total. If one needs complete mouth dental restorations or procedures that involve extraction, it will require much more time.

Dental implants are one of the best options for a healthy and natural tooth. They allow the person to live the way they want to i.e. smiling, laughing, confidently eating, kissing, talking and enjoying all of their everyday activities without worrying about your teeth.

You may have heard that candy is what causes cavities, but this isn’t the only thing that can increase the development of tooth decay. Genetics can also play a role along with any behaviors that you’ve learned while growing up.

Genetics

genetics play a large role in how much risk patients may have of developing cavities. Your genetics can influence how much you enjoy or crave sweets and also affects the strength of the enamel and the composition of your saliva. If you notice that family members often suffer from cavities and tooth decay, you should speak with your dentist near you to discuss preventative treatment methods, such as dental sealants or the application of fluoride.

Learned Behavior

While genetics plays a large role in your risk of cavities and other health issues, our dentist in Fairfax has found that the link between how parents take care of their teeth and how children do the same is direct. Children learn from watching their parents, so habits like brushing and flossing as well as visiting the dentist are learned from authority figures. Teaching children early and maintaining good oral health is a good way to keep children’s teeth healthy.

Is It Genetic or Learned Behavior?

Your oral health status can depend on your behaviors as well as your genetics. Many patients are curious about the difference between the two and what dental issues are caused by genetics or learned behaviors. To make it a bit easier to understand, let’s look at some of the dental issues that may come from genetics as well as learned behavior.

Tooth Decay

The American diet is filled with sugary drinks and foods that can greatly contribute to tooth decay and the loss of teeth. These sugars feed the bacteria in your mouth and allow them to thrive, making your teeth more vulnerable to tooth decay.

Until recently, your dentist in Fairfax, VA, had not pinpointed the specific bacteria that cause tooth decay by eating away at the enamel. It was also a mystery as to whether or not genetics contributed to the presence of decay in teeth. Studies found that the bacteria that is affected by genetics is not responsible for tooth decay.

The bacteria that forms cavities is influenced solely by the environment of your teeth, such as how clean they are and how much sugar you ingest. Eating or drinking sugary and starchy items can significantly increase the development of cavities and oral health issues.

Crooked Teeth

Misalignment can be corrected using braces, but your genetics along with the environmental effect of your teeth grow in. The arrangement of your teeth depends on several factors, such as the number of teeth as well as their size. The size of the jaw also matters along with its alignment.

These components are mainly genetic but learned behaviors can also influence your alignment. Using a pacifier as a child or sucking your thumb can affect your tooth alignment. Improper positioning of the tongue can also cause teeth to become crooked or misaligned as they develop.

Speak with Your Dentist

If you believe that you have dental issues that may stem from genetics, speak with your dentist in Fairfax, VA, to learn more about your family’s history and how it can affect your oral health. Learning more about how your DNA can play a role in your health is essential in understanding your overall health and how to manage it. By knowing certain information, you may be able to prevent dental issues and keep an eye out for certain symptoms.

If you are a patient looking for a dentist in 22031 that can help you determine your oral health risks and go over ways to keep your teeth shining and healthy, schedule an appointment with a professional in our office. We can diagnose any problems you may have and provide treatment if it is needed. If your teeth are healthy, we can make sure they stay that way with preventative treatment from a dentist near you.

At Drummond Dental Care, we want patients to be informed about the dangers associated with misusing dental products. While your dentist in Fairfax may recommend methods to keep teeth clean, they may not provide you with the proper warnings. Let’s get into some of the dangers of mouthwash and how much is too much of a good thing.

Dangerous When Swallowed

When using mouthwash, make sure that you spit the mouthwash out of your mouth and avoid swallowing it. Do not give mouthwash to children and people who may not be able to spit it out or who may think they can drink it. If anyone in your home is at risk of getting into the mouthwash and swallowing it, store it in a locked cabinet. If you believe you or someone you love has consumed mouthwash, contact the authorities or poison control immediately.

Excessive Fluoride

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in several areas throughout nature. It is used to prevent tooth decay and keep the enamel strong and healthy, which is why it is added to drinking water and an essential ingredient in toothpaste. However, exposure to too much fluoride can result in a dental condition known as fluorosis.

Excessive Alcohol

If you’ve ever felt the tingly sensation that occurs when using mouthwash, then you have been using a mouthwash with alcohol in it. Not every mouthwash has alcohol in it, which can cause the mouth to become dry. Your dentist in 22031 can recommend an alcohol-free mouthwash.

Kills Good Bacteria

Some of the mouthwashes you can choose from fight bacteria, but they may be getting rid of good bacteria along with harmful bacteria. This can cause stains and other issues that a dentist near you can treat.

Now that you have more information on how mouthwash can be harmful to your teeth, you can look for safe products to use and follow directions more closely. If you’re still unsure of how to keep your teeth clean or what mouthwash you should use, speak with your dentist in Fairfax, VA to learn more about using dental products on your teeth.

Dentures and dental implants are two of the most popular forms of cosmetic solutions for teeth. Each of them serves a different purpose, so it is important to know the differences before talking to a dentist near you about your needs.

 

Dental Implants

Dental implants are the closest dental solution available to a natural tooth. This procedure involves a metal pole being grafted into your jawbone to anchor a crown as if it were attached to a root. Thanks to advances in technology, dental implants are no longer as expensive as they once were.

 

Dentures

Dentures are a fully removable alternative to implants. These will often take longer to install because the process involves creating a mold of your exact bite, the installation itself, and several more adjustments to ensure a proper fit. The more temporary immediate dentures are premade but will require far more adjustments over a lifetime because they aren’t meant for your specific mouth.

 
 

Partial dentures are similar to dentures, but they are meant to replace only a few teeth rather than an entire set of them.

What’s the real difference?

Knowing the differences can help you to have a more informed discussion with your dentist in Fairfax, VA. Here are some key differences to know going into your appointment.

 

Dental implants graft to your bone, acting in the same manner as a natural tooth. Dentures do not reach as deeply, as they are a superficial solution. Partial dentures attach to the other teeth with wings, possibly causing damage.

 

Dental implants are far more stable and durable than dentures, and they have a much longer lifetime, but they are fitted in tooth-by-tooth, so they may not be the best solution if you have multiple missing teeth.

 
 

If you are looking for a dentist in 22031 zip code to help you find the best solution, then Drummond Dental Care can help you properly care for your teeth. Let them help with your dental needs.

Most people take for granted that keeping your teeth healthy must be a routine that you maintain for your entire lifetime. It doesn’t matter if someone in high school told you that you had beautiful teeth, you must work at taking care of your teeth every day to prevent issues and problems.

Here at Drummond Dental Care in Fairfax, VA, we can help you with maintaining that routine and ensuring that your teeth remain healthy for your lifetime.

Following is a list of healthy dental habits to follow to make sure your teeth stay pearly white and healthy.

• Never go to bed before you brush your teeth. Most people will brush their teeth every morning, but it is essential that you brush your teeth before bedtime because of all the bacteria that live in your mouth and the plaque that will lay around in there building up while you sleep.
• Brushing your teeth the right way. The way your teeth are brushed is just as important as whether you brush them or not. If you can’t do a good job brushing your teeth, then don’t bother brushing them. Move your toothbrush in a circular motion so it can get rid of the plaque that likes to stick to your teeth. If you don’t, it will harden and make it worse for possible gum disease (gingivitis).
• Your tongue is just as important. You probably did not know that plaque can sit on your tongue and build up there too. It can cause you to have bad breath and a host of other problems in your mouth. Brush your tongue when you brush your teeth.
• Do not forget to floss. There are so many who think that flossing is not necessary and don’t realize what flossing does for their teeth. It gets those gross little parts of food that got stuck in your teeth that sit there unseen and can cause more plaque to build up. If you can floss one time a day, it should be enough.
• Don’t forget your mouthwash. Most people skip using mouthwash because they don’t understand the importance of using it. It helps your mouth, teeth, and gums to be healthier in three ways: it will clean those hard to reach areas around your gums at the base of your teeth, help to re-mineralize your teeth and reduce the acid you have residing in your mouth.

Mouthwash helps to bring everything into balance that is going on inside your mouth. Talk to the dentists in Fairfax, VA at Drummond Dental Care for a mouthwash recommendation for you.

• Lay off or limit those acidic and sugary foods. Did you know that when you eat sugary foods that they convert to acid in your mouth? The acid can then start to erode your tooth enamel. Those acids are what causes cavities. By drinking coffee, tea, and eating fruits that are acidic, they will all wear down the enamel on your teeth as well.
• Guzzle plenty of H2O. I cannot say enough about drinking more water. Most dentists feel it is a good idea to drink water after each meal. If you can do this, it will get rid of some of the acid that was left behind in your mouth from the food and beverages you have eaten.
• You should make a trip to see your dentist every six months. Dentistry Fairfax has a stake in your teeth. Yes, you do take care of your teeth every day, but your dentist is the one that can put a real eye on problems with common dental issues like cavities, gingivitis, and oral cancer. Your dentist in Fairfax, VA, can get to the bottom of the problem and get rid of that plaque buildup by teeth and dental cleaning.