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.

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. 

CEREC Crowns at Lehigh Valley Smiles

Crowns are used to protect and strengthen teeth that have become extremely weak, decayed or fractured. By covering your affected tooth and restoring it to its original shape and size, dental crowns (sometimes called caps) can help reduce pain, save your tooth from needing to be extracted and keep your smile beautiful and functional. At our office in Easton, PA, we can see if a crown is necessary to save your smile.

Over time, as your teeth begin to weaken, they become more susceptible to problems, including decay, cracks and discoloration. Crowns are usually only necessary if decay has reached the point where the tooth structure is compromised. At Lehigh Valley Smiles, we use CEREC restorations, which are made of compressed porcelain and stronger than the layered porcelain crowns created in a laboratory. In addition to being stronger and longer-wearing, CEREC restorations can also be created and installed in only one visit, unlike laboratory restorations, which can take weeks to complete and require a temporary crown or restoration to be placed in the meantime.

The placement procedure for a CEREC restoration is easy and doesn’t require you to bite on any goopy and uncomfortable impression material. First all the decay is removed from your teeth, and then the dentist shapes the tooth in preparation for the digital 3D video impression that is taken with a digital camera. The camera is attached to a computer screen, which displays the 3D image, allowing the dentist to design the restoration in front of you. Then the CEREC machine creates the crown in about 15 minutes, and the dentist adheres it to the abutment. The entire process, from design to installation, takes around an hour for each tooth.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, call (610) 252-7414. For more information, please visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net.   

Waterlase Technology in Easton, PA

In order to provide our patients with a comfortable and stress-free dental experience, our practice uses top-of-the-line dental instruments during procedures. One such instrument that has allowed us to ease patient anxiety and deliver more comfort during corrective dentistry is the Waterlase®. By utilizing YSGG laser energy and a water spray, this technology allows the dentist to use fewer shots and less anesthesia, making it a preferred instrument for both patient and doctor. 

Waterlase® technology can be used to remove gum tissue, bone and decay in the tooth enamel, which is the hardest substance in the human body. It can do so without affecting surrounding areas, which means that patients will be able to keep more of their healthy tooth structure if decay does need to be removed. The technology can also be used for root canals, smile design and bone and gum surgery. When used in preparation for cavity fillings, it can actually result in longer-lasting fillings. 

Waterlase® technology is able to bypass the pain caused by other dental tools because it forgoes the use of heat, pressure or vibration, allowing Dr. Alan Dilsaver to cut teeth, gums and bone with less trauma. The benefits of the technology include less post-operative pain, bleeding and swelling. There is also usually less of a need for pain medication, and because it requires less anesthesia, the dentist can perform the procedures instead of referring you to an outside specialist. 

For comfortable dental experience, schedule an appointment Lehigh Valley Smiles in Easton, PA by calling (610) 252-7414. For more information about our dentists, visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net.

Does Your Tooth Still Hurt After a Root Canal?

If you’re still experiencing pain after a root canal, you may be wondering why. Aren’t root canals meant to take your pain away? There are many reasons why your tooth may still be hurting. It is possible that the base of your tooth root (periapical) is still slightly tender or that your pain is caused by a temporary filling that is a bit too high. In these cases, taking OTC painkillers, preferably ibuprofen, may be all you need to alleviate your pain while your root canal heals.

However, if you’ve had a root canal at our practice in Easton, PA and are still experiencing pain that is severe or persistent, you should call our office immediately. The dentist may need to prescribe you an antibiotic to make sure the infection does not remain, or she may need to perform retreatment.

At your follow-up appointment, Dr. Alan Dilsaver will want to know what type of pain you are experiencing. Is your tooth sensitive to hot and cold? Is it the tooth root that is sensitive or the gums that are over the tooth? Is it a constant ache, or does it only hurt when biting? Is there any swelling, drainage or pus? The answers to these questions will give Dr. Dilsaver the information he needs to diagnose your pain.

Root canals don’t always work, and there are many reasons for this, including fractures of the root, convoluted or twisted root structures and failure to protect the root canal after the procedure. If this occurs, you may need further treatment. If the root canal was successful, it should feel normal most of the time.

To schedule an appointment at Lehigh Valley Smiles, call (610) 252-7414. For more information, please visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net.