Acid Reflux

People are taught as children that prolonged exposure to sugar puts them at risk of tooth decay, and that’s true. But we want patients at Lehigh Vally Smiles to know adults have another major source of enamel erosion to watch out for: acid reflux. Also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, acid reflux causes a number of health problems, but dentists will often be the first of the patient’s doctors to identify it.

Acid reflux describes when hydrochloric acid from the stomach escapes into the esophagus. If it gets as far as the mouth, it can damage the gums and mouth lining, as well as the teeth. The tooth erosion associated with acid reflux is painful and leaves the teeth discolored, and the damage to the gums leaves the teeth weak.

Enamel cannot be regrown once lost, but it can be replaced with methods such as fillings, bonding, and partial crowns. It can also be strengthened through fluoride treatments. Some strategies for reducing acid reflux include reducing intake of fatty foods, alcohol, tomatoes, and citrus juice, keeping a straighter posture, and not eating large meals before bed.

Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD, operates Lehigh Valley Smiles at 2601 Nazareth Road, Easton, Pennsylvania, 18045. To schedule an appointment, call 610-252-7414 or visit LehighValleySmiles.net and fill out a contact sheet.

 

What is an Infected Root Tip?

Infections at the tips of tooth roots, known scientifically as periapical abscesses, have been in the news recently after a study found a link between them and heart disease. We’ve long believed at Lehigh Valley Dental that oral health is crucial to overall health and we want our patients to be aware of how dangerous a tooth infection can be.

Pus is liquid comprised of bacteria and dead tissue. An abscess is what a pocket of pus at the site of an infection is called. When present at the tip of a tooth root, an abscess is the result of bacteria entering the tooth’s inner pulp. They may have gotten in through a carry caused by slowly progressing tooth decay or a traumatic injury. When limited to the tooth, an infection can cause pain, swelling, and a persistent bad taste. But when it spreads, it can cause a blood infection and deadly sepsis. The root tip infections linked to heart disease had not presented any symptoms.

The best way to prevent a periapical abscess is by maintaining regular oral hygiene. However, because one can occur without symptoms, it is important to regularly get x-rays done at a dental office. If an abscess does develop, it may require draining or root canal treatment.

Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD, operates Lehigh Valley Smiles at 2601 Nazareth Road, Easton, Pennsylvania, 18045. To schedule an appointment, call 610-252-7414 or visit LehighValleySmiles.net and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Don’t Let Plaque Pester You

At Lehigh Valley Smiles, we encourage our patients to schedule regular dental checkups to inspire the ultimate tooth health. Even if you brush your teeth three times a day and floss on a regular basis, you still have bacteria in your mouth. This bacteria mixes with proteins and food byproducts to form a sticky film called dental plaque. When plaque builds up and isn’t promptly removed, it can lead to cavities. However, if you remove plaque regularly, you can prevent permanent tooth decay.

Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on our teeth and along the gum line. It also contains bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. Everyone develops plaque because bacteria are constantly forming in our mouths, but it’s easy to prevent plaque buildup with proper care. Be sure to brush thoroughly at least twice a day to remove plaque from all surfaces of your teeth and floss daily to remove plaque in between your gums where the toothbrush may not reach. In addition, limit sugary or starchy foods, and don’t forget to schedule a professional cleaning!

If plaque buildup has you down, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at Lehigh Valley Smiles, visit our website www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414. 

What Is a Cavity?

You hear the word all the time, and maybe you’ve had one or two depending on how much of a sugar lover you are. But how much do you really know about cavities? Dental cavities, also known as caries, are holes in the outer layers of a tooth called the enamel and dentin. Most often, Dr. Alan Dilsaver will remove your dental cavity with a filling; however, to prevent this from happening, cavities may be prevented easily by brushing and flossing properly.

Dental cavities are common, affecting a large portion of the population. Small cavities may not cause pain, and may be unnoticed by the patient, while the larger cavities can collect food, and the inner pulp of the affected tooth can become irritated by bacterial toxins, foods that are cold, hot, sour, or sweet, causing toothache. The number of cavities can be reduced by proper nutrition, good oral hygiene, fewer snacks in between meals, the use of oral or topical fluorides and topical sealants. Professional treatment depends on how bad the cavity is.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at Lehigh Valley Smiles, visit our website www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.

Diet and Dental Health

Foods that contain sugars of any kind can contribute to tooth decay; therefore the foods you eat and how frequently you eat them can affect your general health and the health of your teeth and gums. Dr. Alan Dilsaver at Lehigh Valley Smiles can’t monitor your every dietary move, but he can suggest tips to keep in mind when choosing your meals and snacks.

Almost all foods, including milk and vegetables contain some type of sugar; however, they are a necessary part of a healthy diet because many of them also contain important nutrients. The best food choices for the health of your mouth include cheeses, chicken, or other meats, nuts, and milk. These foods are thought to protect tooth enamel by providing the calcium and phosphorus needed to remineralize teeth (a natural process by which minerals are redeposited in tooth enamel after being removed by acids).

Calcium-fortified juices, milk, and other dairy products are rich in calcium and vitamin D and help promote healthy teeth and bones, reducing the risk of tooth loss. Cheese unleashes a burst of calcium that mixes with plaque and sticks to the teeth, protecting them from the acid that causes decay and helping rebuild tooth enamel on the spot.

To learn more about the services we provide at Lehigh Valley Smiles, visit our website www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.

The 2-Minute Brushing Rule

When we hit the snooze button in the morning, two minutes flies by like lightning, when we are waiting in traffic, two minute seems like an eternity. At the sink, two minutes is the time you need to spend brushing your teeth in order to clean them adequately and reduce plaque. At Lehigh Valley Smiles we want you to understand why you should follow the 2-minute brushing rule.

Most people don’t even come close to brushing two minutes and if you don’t brush your teeth long enough, you may not be getting your teeth clean enough. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily establish the basics of good oral hygiene. Brushing helps to clear particles of food from the teeth, but a brush can’t reach between teeth, which is why flossing is also necessary. To make the two minute mark seem like less of a lifetime, split the mouth into four quadrants. That way, it should take about 30 seconds each quadrant. The proper position of the brush head should be along the gum line, half on the gums and half on the teeth, pointing the bristles at a 45-degree angle. Don’t forget to brush every part of your mouth, including your tongue!

To learn more about the services we provide at Lehigh Valley Smiles, visit our website www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.

Pregnancy and Your Teeth

The surge in pregnancy hormones can cause your gum tissues to exaggerate a normal reaction to plaque, a sticky colorless film of bacteria that covers your teeth. If plaque isn’t removed daily, it can eventually harden into tartar and may increase your risk of gingivitis. If you are pregnant, or suspect you’re pregnant, you should visit us at Lehigh Valley Smiles right away.

Pregnancy hormones can cause your gums to swell and become inflamed, making them bleed more easily when you brush or clean between your teeth. You can prevent gingivitis by keeping your teeth clean, especially near the gum line and you should brush with fluoride toothpaste whenever possible. If morning sickness is keeping you from brushing your teeth, change to bland-tasting toothpaste during pregnancy. Rinse your mouth out with water or a mouth rinse if you suffer from morning sickness and have bouts of frequent vomiting.

If you are pregnant, please inform us the next time you schedule an appointment. To learn more about the services we provide at Lehigh Valley Smiles, visit our website www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.

Dry Mouth Causes

Dry mouth or xerostomia, refers to any condition in which your mouth is unusually dry. When this occurs, Dr. Alan Dilsaver at Lehigh Valley Smiles wants you to know what causes this to happen. Most often, dry mouth is the result of a decrease in saliva produced by the glands in your mouth (salivary glands), and it’s frequently a side effect of medication. Less often, dry mouth may be caused by a condition that directly affects the salivary glands.

Some of the common problems associated with dry mouth include a constant sore throat, burning sensation, trouble speaking, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness or dry nasal passages. Dry mouth can range from being merely a nuisance to something that has a major impact on your general health and the health of your teeth, as well as your appetite and enjoyment of food. Treatment for dry mouth depends on the cause.

If you have questions about dry mouth and treatment give us a call, or visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information on services provided at the practice. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Alan Dilsaver at Lehigh Valley Smiles in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.

Gum Disease and Mouthwash

Mouthrinses are used for a variety of reasons: to freshen breath, to help prevent or control tooth decay, to reduce plaque, to reduce the speed that tartar forms on the teeth, or to prevent or reduce gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. As much as we love to see you here at Top Choice Dental it is more important that you take care of your gums and maintain a proper dental hygiene routine on a daily basis.

It is important to note that not all mouthwashes are the same and they don’t always cure gum disease. Many people use a cosmetic mouthwash to freshen their breath or whiten their teeth, but a mouthwash formulated to kill germs can do so much more for your oral health – especially if you’re showing signs of early gum disease. Because it kills the bacteria responsible for gingivitis and bad breath at the same time, an antimicrobial rinse is a great add-on to your regular oral hygiene routine to prevent or reverse gum disease in its early stages.

Dr. Alan Dilsaver can advise you whether you need a mouthrinse depending on your oral health needs. If you have questions about proper oral hygiene give us a call, or 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.

Do You Use a Tongue Scraper?

Do you have a white tongue or have you ever looked at your tongue and seen white film coating it? This white stuff is actually bacteria build-up, food particles, dead cells, and even fungi. The surface of the tongue is covered with papillae and taste buds, which provide an excellent breeding ground for bacteria. This is why Dr. Alan Dilsaver at Lehigh Valley Smiles suggests introducing a tongue scraper into your oral hygiene routine.

Brushing the tongue is effective in removing bacteria, just not as effective as a tongue scraper. Using a tongue scraper is the quickest, most effective, and easiest way to reduce halitosis (bad breath). These small plastic devices have a curved edge so that when you drag them across the top of your tongue, they’ll scrape off the germs and bacteria that cause bad breath as they go.

The tongue needs to be cleaned, don't neglect it in your oral care regimen. Tongue scrapers can be purchased online or at your local drugstore. If you have questions about oral hygiene give us a call, or 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.

Causes and Prevention of Bad Breath

 

Dr. Alan Dilsaver at Lehigh Valley Smiles wants you to have the freshest breath on the block. Each day, plaque builds up on the gums and if left untreated this can lead to severe halitosis. Halitosis is a fancy word for fresh breath and in most cases it originates from the gums and tongue. The odor is caused by wastes from bacteria in the mouth, the decay of food particles, other debris in your mouth and poor oral hygiene. 

Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes helps remove the plaque and food debris that is causing bad breath. Flossing daily helps remove particles of food stuck between the teeth. When the trapped food begins to rot, bacteria begin to release odor and cause halitosis. Brushing the tongue helps remove bacteria that build up as well.

If you suffer from a consistent case of bad breath give us a call to discuss your treatment options. If you have questions about oral hygiene give us a call, or 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.

Dr. Alan Dilsaver at Lehigh Valley Smiles wants you to have the freshest breath on the block. Each day, plaque builds up on the gums and if left untreated this can lead to severe halitosis. Halitosis is a fancy word for fresh breath and in most cases it originates from the gums and tongue. The odor is caused by wastes from bacteria in the mouth, the decay of food particles, other debris in your mouth and poor oral hygiene.

Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes helps remove the plaque and food debris that is causing bad breath. Flossing daily helps remove particles of food stuck between the teeth. When the trapped food begins to rot, bacteria begin to release odor and cause halitosis. Brushing the tongue helps remove bacteria that build up as well.

If you suffer from a consistent case of bad breath give us a call to discuss your treatment options. If you have questions about oral hygiene give us a call, or 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.

 

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.

Manual Toothbrush Vs. Powered Toothbrush

There has been a lot of debate over powered and manual toothbrushes. Our patients want to know which is better to use. This is why here at Lehigh Valley Smiles, Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD provides information about both brushes to his patients of the Easton, PA area.

Since powered toothbrushes have come along, there has been debate about whether they offer a deeper clean than manual toothbrushes, since they cost more and add thousands more strokes. The truth is that getting a good tooth brushing is more about the technique than it is about the toothbrush.

Though powered toothbrushes rotate at a high speed, only the more expensive, sonic brushes have been shown to result in less plaque and less bouts of gingivitis. This is also a debated idea as some think this may be because those who invest more in healthcare products are usually the best at keeping good hygiene routines.

The certain advantage that regular and sonic toothbrushes have over manual toothbrushes is that they do all of the work. For those who have trouble using their hands, like those with arthritis, a powered toothbrush makes it easier to get a proper cleaning.

So in the end, the manual toothbrush can do just as good of a job of brushing teeth than a powered toothbrush, but depending on your comfort level, a powered toothbrush may make it easier to get a complete cleaning. To schedule your regular dental cleaning with Dr. Dilsaver, calls us at (610) 252-7414 or visit our Lehigh Valley Smiles website, www.lehighvalleysmiles.net. 

Tips for Brushing Your Teeth

Most people have been brushing their teeth since they were very small. But do you know if you are brushing them effectively? Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD of Lehigh Valley Smiles here in Easton, PA wants to offer tips and tricks for getting a healthy, clean brushing.

The first thing you need to know is the type of toothbrush that is best. A soft bristled brush is good for removing plaque and a small brush head makes it easier to access those hard-to-reach places. As for electric or manual, in most cases, the outcome is the same. But electric brushes make it a little easier for those who cannot use their hands well. A toothbrush should be replaced every three to four months or sooner if it starts to fray. It also should be replaced after recovering from sickness.

Brushing your teeth twice a day is recommended. Two minutes each time will be a good amount of time to really do a good job. A good way to break up the time is to space four sections of teeth at thirty seconds each. Make sure to brush the outside, inside, and chewing surfaces of the teeth. Use short strokes.

Regular visits to your dentist are part of good oral hygiene, as well! To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dilsaver, call us at Lehigh Valley Smiles at (610) 252-7414 or visit our website, www.lehighvalleysmiles.net. 

Apicoectomy for When Root Canals Do Not Work

Infected teeth are irritating and painful. Having a root canal often can solve the problem, but when it doesn’t, it can be even more frustrating. When root canals and retreatment fails, this is when Dr. Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD decides to perform an apicoectomy. This surgical procedure is successful in relieving the pain of an infected tooth, restoring health, and often save a tooth from being extracted.

An apicoectomy involves removing the tip of the tooth root, cleaning, and sealing the area. First, Dr. Dilsaver will make incisions to reveal the tooth root. The infected tissue is removed, along with a few millimeters of the tooth’s root. Dr. Dilsaver will clean the area and seal the end of the tooth root. The gums are stitched together. Within a few months, the bone will heal around the end of the root. This procedure has a high success rate.

If you have had one or more root canal therapy treatments, and still experience pain and sensitivity to a tooth, it may be time to think about an apicoectomy. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD of Lehigh Valley Smiles in our Easton, PA location, call (610) 252-7414 or visit our website, www.lehighvalleysmiles.net. 

Sleep Apnea Solutions at Lehigh Valley Smiles

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes more than loud snoring and interrupted sleep. It is a serious condition that should be accurately treated. Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD, of Lehigh Valley Smiles, our Easton, PA dental practice has experience helping his patients who suffer from sleep apnea and offer several procedures to correct the condition.

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the soft palate collapses, creating a blockage to the airway. This can cause a person to stop breathing hundreds of times per night. If a sleeping partner has been telling you that you stop breathing while sleeping, or if you feel a sore throat and excessive tiredness in the mornings, it is time to see the doctor.

Sleep apnea not only causes fatigue to you and a sleeping partner, but it increases the risk of hypertension, stroke, liver problems, and heart failure. It can also cause complications with medications and surgery, being especially dangerous when undiagnosed.

Dr. Dilsaver has success performing oral surgeries to unblock the airway. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty removes excess tissue from the upper mouth and throat. Maxillomandibular advancement moves the jaw forward to allow more room behind the soft palate. These are two solutions that are generally used first. A tracheostomy is a procedure for when others have failed. In this procedure, a tube is inserted into your throat that opens at night. These procedures are all safe and Dr. Dilsaver is experienced in performing them all.

If you have been suffering with sleep apnea, schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD, of Lehigh Valley Smiles here at our Easton, PA location. To schedule, call (610) 252-7414 or visit our website, www.lehighvalleysmiles.net.

Night Guards from Dr. Alan Dilsaver

At our practice in Easton, PA, we see many patients who suffer from bruxism, or teeth grinding. While many people who grind their teeth do so consciously throughout the day, even more grind their teeth at night while sleeping. Bruxism can cause damage to your enamel, as well as cause jaw pain, headaches and gum irritation, so it is important to treat it. Night guards are usually the best way to prevent grinding’s negative effects.

Similar to mouth guards worn by athletes during sports, night guards provide a barrier between your top and bottom teeth while you sleep. By reducing wear to your teeth and making it harder for you to grind, your teeth will be healthier and you will feel better overall. Dr. Alan Dilsaver provides night guards that are custom made in our lab to provide a fit that is as comfortable as possible. All we require is an impression of your teeth. These guards are very durable and can last for up to 10 years.

If you find yourself frequently waking up with headaches or pain in your jaw, it is very possible that you grind in your sleep. Often those who do not treat their bruxism end up with TMD, which can lead to a change in the appearance of your face. To diagnose and treat your night grinding at Lehigh Valley Smiles, call (610) 252-7414 to schedule an appointment. For more information, please visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net.