TMJ dysfunction can bring about some major pain and frustration. At Lehigh Valley Smiles of Easton, PA, we can help diagnose TMJ dysfunction and develop a plan to treat you. Not familiar with the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction? Keep reading to learn all about it.
The TMJs (temporomandibular joints) are the joints that allow your jaw to move. They are located just in front of the ears. You can feel them if you place your hand over the area and open your mouth. TMJ dysfunction occurs when the joints become inflamed and painful. They may be tender, swollen, cause sharp or dull pain, and may click when you open and shut your mouth. It can even cause the mouth to become locked open or shut. While there is not really a specific cause that pinpointed, there are several habits that can make TMJ dysfunction worse.
Here in our Easton, PA office, we can offer night guards to minimize the damage done from teeth grinding and clenching at night. They can also be worn during the day if needed. In addition, we can offer tips and lifestyle changes to avoid aggravating TMJ dysfunction.
If you think you are experiencing TMJ dysfunction, do not let it control your life. To schedule an appointment at Lehigh Valley Smiles in Easton, PA, call us at (610) 252-7414 or visit our website, www.lehighvalleysmiles.net.
Tuesday, May 23, 2017
Sleep Apnea Surgeries and Treatment
Obstructive sleep apnea is a dangerous condition. If you suffer from sleep apnea, be sure to contact Lehigh Valley Smiles of Easton, PA to see what we can do for you. In this blog, we will talk about the types of surgeries available to treat obstructive sleep apnea, plus some tips for at home.
There are several surgery options available here at Lehigh Valley Smiles, depending on the condition of the patient and any past surgeries or treatments. The first option is called an uvulopalatopharyngoplasty. In this procedure, the doctor removes some of the soft tissue that is blocking the airway. Another option is maxillomandibular advancement which moves the upper and lower parts of the jaw forward to create more room in the airway.
Tracheostomy is a last-resort procedure to help when other procedures have failed to correct the problem. This procedure creates an opening in the throat where a tube is placed for breathing during the night. During the day, the tube is removed and the opening is covered.
In addition to surgery, there are some lifestyle changes that can help decrease the severity of sleep apnea. Keeping a healthy weight is important. In addition, there are some sleeping habits to get into, like sleeping on your side as opposed to your back. Sedatives like sleeping aids and alcohol should also be avoided.
Sleep apnea can increase the risk of hypertension, heart failure, and stroke. To schedule a consultation at Lehigh Valley Smiles here in Easton, PA, call our office at (610) 252-7414 or visit our website, www.lehighvalleysmiles.net.
There are several surgery options available here at Lehigh Valley Smiles, depending on the condition of the patient and any past surgeries or treatments. The first option is called an uvulopalatopharyngoplasty. In this procedure, the doctor removes some of the soft tissue that is blocking the airway. Another option is maxillomandibular advancement which moves the upper and lower parts of the jaw forward to create more room in the airway.
Tracheostomy is a last-resort procedure to help when other procedures have failed to correct the problem. This procedure creates an opening in the throat where a tube is placed for breathing during the night. During the day, the tube is removed and the opening is covered.
In addition to surgery, there are some lifestyle changes that can help decrease the severity of sleep apnea. Keeping a healthy weight is important. In addition, there are some sleeping habits to get into, like sleeping on your side as opposed to your back. Sedatives like sleeping aids and alcohol should also be avoided.
Sleep apnea can increase the risk of hypertension, heart failure, and stroke. To schedule a consultation at Lehigh Valley Smiles here in Easton, PA, call our office at (610) 252-7414 or visit our website, www.lehighvalleysmiles.net.
No Need to be Nervous for Your Root Canal
Root canals have had a bad reputation in the past, but with current technology, patients do not have to fear this procedure anymore. At Lehigh Valley Smiles in Easton, PA, we utilize rotary endodontics for a quicker, smoother root canal experience.
To begin a root canal, first, there is an access hole drilled in your tooth to access the center of the tooth. We use a dental drill to drill into the center and remove the infected pulp. We then fill the tooth with a sealant and seal the access hole.
In the past, drilling was performed manually with a steel file. These days, we use nickel titanium alloy files that are much more flexible and we use an electric drill. The more flexible files will not stretch the root canal or cause damage; which decreases pain during and after the procedure. The dental drill will make the process quicker and smoother.
If nerves have been keeping you from scheduling a root canal, feel comfortable scheduling your appointment with us. Rotary endodontics will make sure your root canal is gentle, fast, and effective. To schedule at Lehigh Valley Smiles in Easton, PA, call our office at (610) 252-7414 or visit our website, www.lehighvalleysmiles.net.
To begin a root canal, first, there is an access hole drilled in your tooth to access the center of the tooth. We use a dental drill to drill into the center and remove the infected pulp. We then fill the tooth with a sealant and seal the access hole.
In the past, drilling was performed manually with a steel file. These days, we use nickel titanium alloy files that are much more flexible and we use an electric drill. The more flexible files will not stretch the root canal or cause damage; which decreases pain during and after the procedure. The dental drill will make the process quicker and smoother.
If nerves have been keeping you from scheduling a root canal, feel comfortable scheduling your appointment with us. Rotary endodontics will make sure your root canal is gentle, fast, and effective. To schedule at Lehigh Valley Smiles in Easton, PA, call our office at (610) 252-7414 or visit our website, www.lehighvalleysmiles.net.
Dental Implant Failure
Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. In fact, they are one of the most reliable long-term methods of tooth replacement. However, as with any other surgical procedure, there are a variety of internal and external factors that cause complications or even total failure of treatment. If this ever were to happen to you, Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD will assess the situation.
Osseointegration describes the formation of a direct functional and structural connection between a person’s bone and an artificial implant. There are two primary reasons for “later” implant failure after the osseointegration process has been successful. These include over-stressing implants with too much biting force or inflammatory disease of the gum tissues and/or bone around the implant. Prevention plays a tremendous role in avoiding implant failure. Once the implants are placed, it’s crucial to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Make sure you schedule regular dental cleanings to help keep the tissues around your implants healthy.
If you have questions about dental implants or implant failure, please give us a call. To learn about the services and technology we provide at our practice, visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.
Osseointegration describes the formation of a direct functional and structural connection between a person’s bone and an artificial implant. There are two primary reasons for “later” implant failure after the osseointegration process has been successful. These include over-stressing implants with too much biting force or inflammatory disease of the gum tissues and/or bone around the implant. Prevention plays a tremendous role in avoiding implant failure. Once the implants are placed, it’s crucial to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Make sure you schedule regular dental cleanings to help keep the tissues around your implants healthy.
If you have questions about dental implants or implant failure, please give us a call. To learn about the services and technology we provide at our practice, visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.
Baby Tooth Care Tips
Baby teeth may be small, but they’re important. To help prevent the buildup of plaque bacteria that can lead to decay, with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD recommends regularly cleaning your newborn’s gums with a damp washcloth following feedings. It’s important to start cleaning your child’s teeth before they come in to jumpstart a healthy smile.
Wipe the gums off after each feeding with a warm, wet washcloth or a dampened piece of gauze wrapped around your finger. In addition, take measures to prevent baby bottle tooth decay, a disease that causes severe, swift, decay of baby teeth. To help prevent it, do not put your baby to bed with a bottle of formula or a sugary drink, such as juice. The possibility of tooth decay is directly related to the number of times that sugar comes in contact with the teeth. Your child’s baby teeth act as placeholders for adult teeth. Without a healthy set of baby teeth, your child risks having trouble chewing and speaking clearly as they get older.
If you have questions about your child’s oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn about the services and technology we provide at our practice, visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.
Wipe the gums off after each feeding with a warm, wet washcloth or a dampened piece of gauze wrapped around your finger. In addition, take measures to prevent baby bottle tooth decay, a disease that causes severe, swift, decay of baby teeth. To help prevent it, do not put your baby to bed with a bottle of formula or a sugary drink, such as juice. The possibility of tooth decay is directly related to the number of times that sugar comes in contact with the teeth. Your child’s baby teeth act as placeholders for adult teeth. Without a healthy set of baby teeth, your child risks having trouble chewing and speaking clearly as they get older.
If you have questions about your child’s oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn about the services and technology we provide at our practice, visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
Athletes and Mouth Guards
Mouth guard use has been shown to reduce the risk of sport-related dental injuries. Imagine playing a sport that you love and suddenly your teeth get knocked out. Smiling, talking and eating would be difficult and it will probably take you some time to recover. When it comes to protecting your mouth, a mouth guard is an essential piece of athletic gear that should be part of your standard from an early age. Fortunately, Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD at Lehigh Valley Smiles can provide patients of all ages with custom-fitted mouth guards for proper protection.
Custom mouth guards are made from exact and precise models of an individual’s own teeth. They are also made of resilient and tear-resistant materials ensuring a proper fit. A properly fitted mouth guard absolutely must be protective, comfortable, resilient, tear resistant, odorless, tasteless, and allow room for you to breathe. Because our custom-fitted mouth guards are made for your mouth and your mouth only, they are more reliable than over-the-counter mouth guards.
If you think you may benefit from a mouth guard, please give us a call. To learn about the services and technology we provide at our practice, visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
CEREC Technology
One of the latest dental technology tools to appear on the dentistry scene is CEREC. The CEREC machine is a special computer that acts as a dental restoration tool, allowing Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD to restore decayed teeth, place dental crowns, remove defective amalgam dental fillings, or place porcelain dental veneers in just one appointment. A CEREC procedure requires less time, less drilling, and fewer injections too.
A typical CEREC procedure goes something like this. First, there will be an exam and preparation before your dental service. Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD will examine your teeth, decide on the preparation method and start removing your tooth decay. Then, an optical impression of the prepared tooth is taken. Finally, Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD will use the CEREC machine to design and create your tooth filling, dental crown, or veneers, right in the office! CEREC is the unique CAD/CAM system for patient individual all-ceramic restorations in one single appointment.
To learn about the services and technology we provide at our practice, visit www.lehighvalleysmiles.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD in Easton, PA, call 610-252-7414.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)