Advantages of Dental Implants
Missing teeth can disrupt the quality of life that you’ve dreamed of, but there’s no reason that you shouldn’t receive the dental treatment you deserve. Dentist in Vancouver, WA Dr. Dale Nelson offers dental implants as a long-term treatment option for the replacement of missing teeth at Salmon Creek Family Dental. Why Choose Dental Implants? Dental implants are a convenient, cost-effective alternative to more temporary treatments such as dental bridges and partial or full dentures. Unlike partial or full dentures, there’s no equipment that needs to be taken out and cleaned separately. Permanently affixed in your jaw, dental implants require only standard routine dental care to maintain a bright, natural looking smile. When it comes to everyday activities like eating and speaking, dental implants provide the comfort and confidence you need in daily interactions with others. Dental bridges and dentures can cause discomfort and require extra care and maintenance, which is not the case with dental implants. Dental Implant Evaluation Dr. Dale Nelson, a dentist in Vancouver WA, and his team at Salmon Creek Family Dental can help you decide if dental implants are right for you through a brief evaluation. Factors that effect whether or not dental implants can work for you include: the health of your jaw bone to place the implant “roots” your overall health, including diabetes and other conditions that may effect healing after the procedure the use of tobacco, which threatens dental health the presence of periodontal disease that requires treatment before implants can be placed current medications that may effect healing These factors are taken into account along with your general dental health, including brushing and flossing habits. Because dental implants are similar to natural teeth, a regular brushing and flossing regimen is necessary to maintain to ensure the health of gum tissue and jaw bone after the dental implant procedure. Dental Implants: A Good Fit? After education and discussion, Dr. Nelson can advise you personally whether or not dental implants are a good treatment option for your dental health. The first step is to schedule an appointment at Salmon Creek Family Dental in order to be evaluated. In addition, Dr. Nelson will need important information from you, including a complete medical and dental history and current dental x-rays in order to determine your eligibility for dental implants. Then Dr. Nelson will sit down with you and explain your options in language that’s easy to understand. Don’t let missing teeth detract from your quality of life – dental implants can help you maintain the confidence and convenience that you desire in good dental health!
Fruits and Vegetables That Are Good For Your Teeth
Since you were a little kid you heard people say “Eat your veggies,” since it’s widely known that getting more green in your diet is a good way to stay healthy. Eating fruits and vegetables are not only good for your overall health but your dental health as well. Greens and Vegetables Vegetables that are juicy and leafy are some of the best foods for your teeth. Cabbage, chard, and collard greens are all great choices for your teeth. Each is loaded with vitamins and minerals that are necessary to help you maintain and improve your oral health. The nutrients found in dark leafy vegetables like spinach and lettuce contain high amounts of magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin C, beta carotene, calcium and magnesium. Because phosphorous is stored in the teeth (your bones), these minerals are instrumental in helping your body maintain balance. Carrots Munching on carrots and celery is a great way to keep your teeth healthy. When you chew foods that are crunchy and high in fiber, your mouth has to work overtime which stimulates the gums. Healthy gums are an important factor in oral care because they can keep your teeth healthy. These foods have beta-carotene in them, which your body needs to create vitamin A. Citrus Citrus fruits are extremely good for your oral health, because they have a large amount of vitamin C. Chewing fiber-rich, fresh fruits massages your gums, helps clean your teeth and increases salivation, which can neutralize the citric and malic acids that citrus fruits may leave in your mouth. Our favorite fruit choices are oranges, pears, and watermelons. Apples You know that eating an apple a day can keep the doctor away – this includes the dentist too. Apples, which we like to call nature’s toothbrush, are a good snack because they are fibrous. Eating an apple can help clean your teeth until you brush and floss. Avoid apple juices because of the added sugar which can cause tooth decay, but enjoying a fresh apple can stimulate your gums and reduce cavity- causing bacteria to build up in your mouth. People who eat more fruits and vegetables usually have better smiles. When you eat well, you feel good and when you feel good you look good. These foods that will keep you smiling until your next Vancouver family dentist visit at Salmon Creek Family Dental.
Dental Anxiety
If you feel increased stress, nervousness or anxiety when you think about visiting the dentist, then you’re probably dealing with dental anxiety. Avoiding a visit to the dentist due to these intense feelings can result in increased dental pain, a higher risk of gum disease, and tooth loss. Who Suffers With Dental Anxiety? The short answer: a lot of people. The American Association of Endodontists conducted a survey that showed that as many as 80% of adult Americans fear going to the dentist, and more than half indicated that this fear keeps them from going to the dentist for regular care. Women and children generally report a greater chance of fear and avoidance than men and the elderly. Invasive treatments, such as root canals or oral surgery, top the list of fears as opposed to less invasive procedures like dental cleanings and x-rays. Causes of Dental Anxiety There are many reasons that people fear going to the dentist, even when they’re in discomfort or pain. Some of these factors include: Embarrassment regarding the condition of their teeth Past traumatic experiences History of childhood abuse Fear of pain Feeling a loss of control Past extensive or costly treatment No matter the reason, Dr. Nelson strives to provide the best dental care in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere. From your very first visit, Dr. Nelson listens to your concerns and addresses any questions you might have, providing what you need to enjoy your dental visit. Not Just Dental Problems Those who struggle with dental anxiety experience more than increased risk for unnecessary dental pain or problems. Avoiding the dentist for regular exams and cleanings can lead to more severe dental problems that cost more money to correct in the long-run. These situations can also include emergency care, which can also cost more than consistent dental care. Emotional and health issues can accompany dental anxiety. The higher levels of stress experienced can lead to feelings of self-consciousness, depression, insecurity and low self-esteem. In addition, gum disease and tooth loss, which are experienced by those who struggle with dental anxiety, can lead to larger physical problems like heart disease, diabetes and stroke. How to Deal with Dental Anxiety There are many ways to deal with Dental Anxiety, and Dr. Nelson and the compassionate staff at Salmon Creek Family Dental are more than willing to help. First, share your feelings and fears with us. There are many ways that we can adapt necessary treatment to meet your needs. Second, make and keep regular dental appointments. These will help you take the best care of your teeth without having to experience a great degree of discomfort and pain. Potential problem areas can be caught and treated early. Third, before these appointments, eat calming, high-protein foods, avoiding caffeine and sugar. Relax using deep-breathing techniques and take advantage of the amenities we offer to provide a distraction through your appointment. Last, consider one of our many sedation techniques to help you through your treatment. These include: Oral Sedation – administered in pill form, this type of sedation allows you to remain conscious but feel relaxed and even sleepy during your treatment. Nitrous Oxide Sedation – nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” is inhaled through the nose, allowing you to relax but still respond consciously during treatment. Intravenous (IV) Sedation – this method is administered through an injection and is immediately effective. Patients using IV sedation feel as if they slept through the procedure Deep Sedation – Administered intravenously or through general anesthesia, this method of dental sedation is appropriate ideal for extremely phobic patients, those with significant medical conditions, and long and complex surgical dental procedures. Regardless of your level of anxiety, Dr. Nelson and his staff at Salmon Creek Family Dental will do whatever they can to make you as comfortable as possible during your dental treatment.