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Advanced cosmetic and general dentistry

Can dental sealants be used for adults?

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Are dental sealants only for children? I have read several articles about them and it seems like they are for kids. – Thanks Monica from Cleveland

Monica – Dental sealants are frequently used on children’s and teenager’s teeth, but adults can benefit from them.

Sealants are more frequently used on children’s teeth, because children are more likely to develop cavities. Their brushing and flossing habits may not be as thorough as that of an adult, and a sealant will help prevent tooth decay.

Sometimes brushing and flossing teeth are not enough. Some people have teeth with very deep depressions and grooves, where food can easily get trapped. Dental sealants seal off the teeth and keep food and plaque out.

A sealant is a thin coating of plastic that is brushed on the chewing surface of your teeth. Often a light is shined on the sealant to harden it. A sealant blends in with your teeth and can last for years before it needs to be re-applied.

If you frequently get cavities, ask your dentist if your teeth might benefit from dental sealants.

This post is sponsored by Lowell cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

Bleeding gums

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There are several reasons that your gums might bleed. A new flossing routing can cause your gums to bleed until they adjust to the routine. Aggressive tooth brushing might be the problem.

Gingivitis, the beginning stage of periodontal disease, can also cause your gums to bleed. You might notice this when you brush your teeth, even if you don’t brush them aggressively. If you don’t floss, or if you have teeth that are difficult to floss, plaque can build up and make gums swell and bleed. People with a dental bridge should take extra care to floss around and beneath the bridge to keep food from getting trapped and irritating the gums.

Pregnancy gingivitis results from hormonal changes during pregnancy and can cause gums to swell and bleed. Also, certain medications, such as blood thinners can make gums bleed.

If your gums are persistently bleeding, make an appointment with your dentist. Early detection of a problem can make treatment easier.

This post is sponsored by Lowell cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

Is it possible to get a cavity beneath a crown?

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I have a tooth that has been crowned for 4 years or so. It’s been hurting consistently, so I went to my dentist. She says there is a cavity beneath the crown. I thought crowns protected teeth, so how could there be a cavity in the tooth? – Shelli

Shelli – It is possible to get a cavity beneath crown, but it’s unusual to get the cavity beneath a crown that is only four year sold.

When a crown is placed, the margin—where the crown meets your tooth—should have no gaps. The smallest gap will leave room for plaque. Plaque will attract decay.

Insurance companies usually require that a crown be in place five years before it is replaced. Dentists expect crowns to last much longer than that.

We recommend that you have the crown examined by a skilled cosmetic dentist.

This post is sponsored by Lowell cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

Bulimia and Your Teeth

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More than 10 million Americans suffer from eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia.

Bulimia is characterized by excessive over-eating in a short amount of time. Excessive eating is often followed by self-induced vomiting.

In time, the vomiting—whether it’s caused by bulimia or another condition—will affect your teeth. The acid from vomiting will cause teeth to become discolored, thin and weak, and they may begin to crumble.

There are some things you can do to protect your teeth. Immediately after vomiting, your teeth are weak, so avoid brushing them at that time. Instead, thoroughly rinse your mouth with warm baking-soda water to neutralize the acid in your mouth. If baking soda is not available, rinsing your mouth with just water can help. Sip water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist. A dry mouth can’t fight bacteria and decay.

If you are struggling with, or recovering from, bulimia, tell your dentist. He or she will take steps to help you preserve your teeth. Fluoride treatments can help strengthen your teeth and protect them from decay.

If you’re recovering from bulimia and you want a smile makeover, the treatment varies depending on the extent of the damage to your teeth. Porcelain crowns can be made to completely cover and protect your teeth. They will have the translucency and color of your natural teeth. If you have lost teeth, dental implants are the most natural looking and natural feeling way to replace them. After examining your teeth, your dentist will discuss your options with you.

You will get the most natural-looking restoration from an experienced cosmetic dentist who is skilled in designed smile makeovers.

This post is sponsored by Lowell dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

Does a tongue scraper help bad breath?

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Does a tongue scraper help bad breath? – Eddie

Eddie – Although a tongue scraper will not eliminate bad breath, it may reduce it. Tongue scrapers reduce the bacteria that can cause bad breath.

If you are unable to eliminate bad breath after regularly brush and flossing your teeth, using a mouth rinse specifically for neutralizing odor, and using a tongue scraper, see your dentist. Periodontal disease, or gum disease, can cause bad breath. Bacteria from your gums can cause bad breath when sulfur compounds from the bacteria are released.

Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to help determine the source of the odor. If you have periodontal disease, it will be promptly treated to prevent further damage to your teeth and gums.

This post is sponsored by Lowell cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.