i-CAT Technology at Lehigh Valley Smiles

A dental 3D scan allows clinicians to view dental anatomy from different angles. A 3D scan can help gain a better view of bone structures, such as adjacent root positions, in order to locate canals and root fractures, as well as provide the ability to more accurately measure anatomical structures. Here at Lehigh Valley Smiles, Dr. Alan Dilsaver utilizes the i-CAT Cone Beam 3D Dental Imaging System for the dental implant procedure.

The i-CAT 3D Cone Beam Imaging system is a fast, simple and completely painless procedure. Patients sit in a chair for a single 10-second scan and from that scan Dr. Alan Dilsaver can quickly see computer-generated views of the bones of the face, the teeth, and other details from any angle in 3D and in color. The patient benefits from less radiation as well as the comfortable, open environment. Aside from the physical comfort of this system, Dr. Alan Dilsaver can share a visual diagnosis with patients, making them more comfortable with their treatment plan and actively participate in their care.

To learn more about our i-CAT technology and services provided here at Lehigh Valley Smiles, visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Alan Dilsaver at Lehigh Valley Smiles in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.

Importance of Periodontal Health

It is our goal here at Lehigh Valley Smiles to ensure that you have the healthiest smile possible. Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an inflammatory condition that if left untreated may cause damage to the tissues and bone surrounding the teeth and can eventually lead to tooth loss. The dynamics of the disease are such that the individual can experience episodes of rapid periodontal disease activity in a relatively short period of time.

When you have healthy gums, your teeth are well-supported by the tissue in your gums and your chances for long-term oral health are significantly increased. Numerous research studies suggest an association between periodontitis, advanced gum disease, and other, more serious chronic health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. That’s why by simply brushing, flossing and maintaining an effective oral hygiene routine, you can reap the benefits of avoiding pain and discomfort, saving money on procedures, staying healthy and having a nice smile.

If you notice blood in the sink when you brush, give us a call before it gets worse. To learn more about periodontal services provided here at Lehigh Valley Smiles, visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Alan Dilsaver at Lehigh Valley Smiles in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.

 

Are You Flossing Properly?

Every time you visit the dentist for a checkup there’s one question you will certainly hear: “Have you been flossing regularly?” It’s safe to say that most of us answer this question with a “no.” What many of us non-flossers don’t realize is that this step plays an important role in dental health. Here at Lehigh Valley Smiles, Dr. Alan Dilsaver not only wants you to floss regularly, but he wants you to know how to floss properly.

Floss is an interdental cleaner, meaning it’s designed specifically to clean the tight spaces between the teeth and the gap between the base of the teeth and the gums. These are places that a toothbrush can’t reach. Next time you floss, utilize these tips:

• Wind 18 inches of floss around middle fingers of each hand. Pinch floss between thumbs and index fingers, leaving a one-to-two-inch length in between. Use thumbs to direct floss between upper teeth.


• Keep a one-to-two-inch length of floss controlled between fingers. Use index fingers to glide floss between contacts of the lower teeth.


• Gently guide floss between the teeth by using a zig-zag motion and be sure to contour floss around the side of the tooth.

If you still have questions about how to properly floss, don’t hesitate to give us a call. To learn more about dental hygiene and services provided here at Lehigh Valley Smiles, visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Alan Dilsaver at Lehigh Valley Smiles in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.

How to Choose the Correct Toothbrush

Never underestimate the importance of good oral hygiene – not only is it critical to your dental health, but it is beneficial to your overall wellbeing. In fact, if you don’t brush your teeth properly you risk developing gum disease that can lead to more serious health conditions including heart disease and diabetes. Here at Lehigh Valley Smiles, Dr. Alan Dilsaver wants you to know what to look for when selecting the correct toothbrush.

There are a lot of choices out there when it comes to purchasing a toothbrush, which makes it difficult to know what to look for. Next time you stroll through the toothbrush aisle be sure to pay attention to these details. Choose a toothbrush with a small brush head and a bristle design that helps you get to those hard-to-reach places of your mouth. Your toothbrush should have soft bristles that are gentle on your teeth and gums. Additionally, many toothbrushes have non-slip grips which make them easy to use even if wet.

If you’re still undecided about which toothbrush to use, don’t hesitate to give us a call. To learn more about dental hygiene and services provided here at Lehigh Valley Smiles, visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Alan Dilsaver at Lehigh Valley Smiles in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.

Gum Grafting in Easton, PA

For gums that have receded due to disease, a gum graft may be required for proper tooth stabilization and also for comfort. Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD of Lehigh Valley Smiles is skilled and trained in performing gum grafts right here in our Easton, PA dental practice.

Gum grafts replace gums that have pulled back and receded, leaving tooth root exposed. The exposed roots are sensitive, are not aesthetically attractive, and can cause the tooth to become loose. A gum graft is a surgical procedure that takes tissue from the roof of the mouth and moves it down to cover the exposed tooth.

Tissue from the roof of the mouth is cut and moved down to the gum line. The tissue is stitched into place to cover the exposed tooth. The gums will take a week or two to heal. During this time it is recommended to eat soft, cool foods. You should not brush the gum line that was repaired until it has healed. Take any pain medication and antibiotics as prescribed by Dr. Dilsaver.

If you are in need of a gum graft, trust the expertise of Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD of Lehigh Valley Smiles. To schedule an appointment in our Easton, PA dental office, call us at (610) 252-7414 or visit our website, www.lehighvalleysmiles.net.