Are Clear Braces the Right Choice for You?

Clear braces, also known as ceramic braces, are the exact same size and shape as traditional metal braces; however, they have clear or enamel colored brackets that blend in to the tooth. Clear braces also are available with tooth colored wires to decrease their appearance.

There are many benefits to choosing clear braces, rather than traditional metal braces. The overall benefit of clear braces is increased self-confidence. Due to their camouflaged appearance, clear braces often go unnoticed. Traditional braces are often avoided by people who are older or going through important life events (e.g., weddings, graduations, etc.). Clear braces allow individuals who are going through these events to take photographs and attend events with their braces not overshadowing their appearance. Another benefit of clear braces is their ability to straighten teeth. They have been shown to be just as effective as traditional braces in the straightening and realignment of teeth.

Clear braces are also extremely durable and hold up as well as traditional metal braces. Clear braces do not effect tooth enamel negatively. They are bonded to teeth with an agent that prevents demineralization of the tooth enamel, which prevents color change around the bracket during treatment. Clear braces are extremely easy to remove. Once treatment has been completed, the braces are removed easily and are less likely to leave demineralized enamel behind.

Another advantage of clear braces is the decreased treatment time. Typically, ceramic braces work faster than other clear alignment options, like Invisalign. Clear braces work faster because they stay on the teeth all of the time, while Invisalign is removed for meals and teeth cleaning. Many patients using Invisalign take them out and forget to put them back in, which leads to increased treatment time.

Clear ceramic Braces are typically more comfortable than metal braces. Clear braces are known as the most comfortable option when being treated for dental realignment. The size and shape of the bracket lead to decreased gum irritability. Finally, the newest clear ceramic braces do not stain easily like the old versions.

If you’re interested in clear braces, call our dentist in Chandler AZ today!

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4 Reasons to Have an Oral Cancer Screening in Chandler, AZ

Oral Cancer Screening in Chandler AZ

Did you know that dental professionals in Chandler, AZ offer oral cancer screenings? It’s possible to incorporate a screening into a routine dental checkup with ease. The question many people have is why they would ask for a screening. Here are four simple reasons that will help you see the importance of making use of this important aspect of protecting your health.

You’ve Never Had One

In fact, you never knew there was such a thing as an oral cancer screening in Chandler AZ up to now. Even if you don’t think there could possibly be anything wrong, it makes sense to ask for a screening as a proactive measure. Remember that different forms of cancer can be well developed before there are any obvious signs. You could be doing yourself a favor by making the screening part of your annual checkup.

There’s a History of Cancer in Your Family

While you can’t recall anyone in your immediate family having oral cancer, there are a few that have dealt with other forms of cancer. Keep in mind that any history of cancer in your family indicates that you might be at a greater risk. Just as you would have bloodwork done by your doctor each year, it makes sense to ask the dentist to conduct a screening annually. If anything is discovered, the treatments can begin immediately.

You Get Peace of Mind

Most people who have screenings find that there’s nothing wrong. That’s good news, since it indicates the odds are in your favor. Even so, there may be a thought in the back of your mind that something could be developing. Confirming that no cancer is present makes it easier to relax and concentrate on other matters.

Early Detection Translates into Higher Survival Rates

Assume that you undergo an oral cancer screening and your Chandler, AZ dentist confirms that there are signs that cancer cells are present. What happens next? You begin to undergo treatments to stop the cancer from spreading. Those same treatments are often sufficient to kill any existing cancer cells.

The key is discovering the presence of cancer as early as possible. Doing so increases the odds of bringing the cancer under control and eliminating it altogether. Think of what that means in terms of regaining your health and having many more years to spend with the people that you love.

If you’ve never had a screening before or if it’s been a number of years, now is the time to schedule on. In the best-case scenario, everything will look fine. If not, you have the opportunity to get treatments and get rid of the cancer before it causes permanent damage.

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When Is The Right Time To Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Your dentist says it’s time to remove your wisdom teeth, and you wonder if it’s really necessary. Here are some questions to ask yourself before you get it done and a few things to look for during the process. Some dentists do the work themselves while others refer patients to oral surgeons. Either way, it should only take a few days for your gums to return to normal.

When is wisdom teeth removal in Chandler AZ a good idea?

• when a tooth is impacted and causes pain
• when a tooth comes in at the wrong angle
• when your jaw doesn’t have room for the teeth
• when you have cavities or gum disease

What takes place during extraction of wisdom teeth?

It usually takes less than an hour for the procedure to be done in the dental office. The surgeon will start by giving you a local anesthesia, such as Novacaine, in your gums. People who are afraid of dentists may choose to breathe nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, through a mask to relax. After numbing your mouth, the doctor will give you drugs to sedate you through a vein in your arms. You will sleep through the procedure and possibly for an hour after.

If the doctor needs to cut your gums to extract the teeth, he will stitch them shut and pack your mouth with gauze. The stitches will dissolve and fall out within a few days. Wisdom teeth that are not removed may damage the jaw or surrounding teeth, cause gums to get infected, make other teeth crooked, or create sinus problems.

What happens after surgery?

Most people feel discomfort for three or four days, and the gums may take several weeks to fully heal. Follow your doctor’s directions after the surgery and try these tips to relieve pain and help your gums recover:

• Use an ice pack to prevent swelling.
• Use damp heat for soreness.
• Eat soft foods and drink a lot of fluids.
• Exercise your jaw by gently opening and closing your mouth.
• Take prescribed medication to reduce swelling and pain.
• Brush gently on the second day but avoid sore spots.
• Rinse gently with salt water.
• Don’t use straws because they may cause bleeding.
• Don’t smoke.
• Don’t eat hard or sticky foods.

The post When Is The Right Time To Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed? appeared first on J. Philipp.

source https://jphilipp.com/wisdom-teeth-removal-in-chandler/

The Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry in Chandler AZ

When people hear about cosmetic dentistry, they tend to think only about how it affects the overall appearance of someone’s teeth. However, cosmetic dentistry does so much more than just making your teeth whiter. Read on to learn more about the benefits of cosmetic dentistry!

You Will Look Younger

If you thought plastic surgery was the only way to look younger, you’re in for quite a surprise. Cosmetic dentistry can transform your appearance. You may be wondering “How do my teeth make me look older?” Research shows that the discoloration of teeth and dental erosion are very common effects of aging. Luckily, these are very minor inconveniences and can be fixed very easily through cosmetic dentistry.

Enhanced Aesthetics

As mentioned before, cosmetic dentistry can dramatically improve the appearance of your teeth. From correcting chip and missing teeth to whitening for a brighter smile, cosmetic dentistry offers patients a variety of options for smile enhancement.

There is a wide array of cosmetic dental procedures as well as a number of reasons to why people get them.

These reasons can include:

• Stained teeth
• Stained teeth
• Chips
• Gaps in the teeth
• Ragged gum lines

If you have any of these problems, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist.

Your Teeth Will Become Stronger As a Result

Each and every cosmetic dental procedure is designed to build confidence and strengthen the teeth. Having stronger teeth allows you to enjoy all your favorite foods and drinks without having much to worry about. On a side note, it also cuts down on dental visits as well.

The benefits listed here are only a few of some the best benefits that comes along with cosmetic dentistry in Chandler AZ. Not only will you have a killer smile, but you’ll also find the new you!

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5 Different Exercises to Ease TMJ Pain in Chandler AZ

TMJ Pain in Chandler AZ

You may not think too much about that temporomandibular joints (TMJ) that connect your jaw to your skull. However, they play an important role in actions you do every day – namely talking, chewing, and swallowing. So, if these joints are affected by overuse, arthritis, or injury, you may experience noticeable pain while chewing, a locking of your jaw, or pain in your jaw, face, ear, or neck. According to a study referenced in the Journal of Dental Research, exercises, like the ones discussed below, may effectively strengthen these joints and reduce disruptive symptoms.

1. Jaw Relaxation Exercises

Place your tongue on the roof of your mouth just behind your front teeth. Next, gently move your teeth together and apart while also relaxing your jaw muscles.

2. Partial Mouth Opening

Place your tongue on the roof of your mouth. Put one finger by your ear where your temporomandibular joint is located. You should be able to feel where your jaw bone ends and connects to your skull. Lower your jaw halfway as your mouth opens, and then close your mouth to return to a normal position. Do the same thing with the joint on the other side.

3. Full Mouth Opening

This exercise is performed similar to the partial mouth opening one. The difference is that you’ll place one finger on your chin and the other on your TMJ in Chandler AZ. You’ll then drop your jaw completely before going back to a normal position.

4. Chin Tucks

With this TMJ exercise; you’ll relax your shoulders back and keep your chest up. Next, pull your chin back so that you are purposely creating a “double chin.” Hold for 3-5 seconds and repeat about 10 times or whatever is comfortable for you.

5. Resisted Mouth Opening/Closing

For this exercise, you’ll place your thumb order your chin. First, slowly open your mouth and create some resistance with your thumb as you do so. Next, close your mouth and use your thumb and index finger to create resistance by gently pulling downward. It’s okay if your mouth opens slightly when you do this. The purpose of these exercises is to strengthen the muscles that help you chew properly.

While many people think dentists in Chandler, AZ, primarily treat problems with teeth and gums, they can also take steps to ease pain related to the temporomandibular joints. If your TMJ discomfort is related to tooth and jaw alignment, for instance, correcting these issues could provide relief from joint pain, and a custom dental appliance may be recommended if a TMJ disorder stems from teeth grinding. In some cases, treating underlying dental issues improves overall oral and dental health while also relieving TMJ pain.

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