How to treat dry mouth?
Xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth, can be very uncomfortable. Many times long-term dry mouth can lead to problems like dental decay and gum disease. Best ways to help dry mouth: Frequent water intake Alcohol free mouth rinses, switch to dry mouth mouthwashes Sugar-free gum or hard candies Limit caffeine Quit all forms of tobacco OTC saliva substitutes Avoid OTC antihistamines and decongestants Humidifier at night time Breathe through your nose Saliva helps prevent cavities. It acts as a buffer to neutralize acids in your mouth. If you experience dry mouth, make sure to: Avoid sugary or acidic food and drink Use Fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash Routine 6 month dental visits If symptoms persist, talk to your doctor or dentist. An evaluation of your overall health and medication may be indicated. Certain medications or combinations of medications can cause dry mouth. Work with your doctor or dentist to find the underlying cause of the dry mouth. If you have any questions, call Dr. Kathryn Buss at Portland Smiles...
read moreNo more dentures! Get permanent teeth
There are a lot more options to replacing missing teeth than dentures thanks to the amazing advances in technology. Yes, that means you do not have to take your teeth out at night time anymore. You will be able to eat steak and corn on the cob again. No more plastic on the roof of your mouth. No more sore spots. Amazing, right? So how does this work? A hybrid prosthesis is a permanent worry free option. First, your general dentist will determine if you are a possible candidate. They will work closely with the oral surgeon and dental laboratory. Together as a team they will rebuild your smile. This can be done for both upper and lower teeth. Records are obtained during the consult. Photos, molds of your teeth and a 3D scan of the jaw will be completed initially. Each patient is unique, both the clinical exam and the records allow the team to plan your specific case. Many times all three team members are there the day you get new teeth. During the procedure the remaining teeth, if any, are taken out and usually 6-8 implants are placed per arch. Each implant acts like a pillar...
read moreHow to manage dental phobias with sedation?
Fear of dentistry is a true, valid reaction that unfortunately many people experience. There is no discrimination when it comes to dental phobia. It can truly affect anyone. In fact, over 30% of the population avoids the dentist due to fear. Oral conscious sedation dentistry is a wonderful, safe, pain free option that allows many people to complete their dental needs. Sedation dentistry does not only treat those that are anxious, phobic or fearful, but also helps: Severe gaggers Patients that have difficulty getting numb Patients that have difficulty staying open Patients with time constraints Patients with a lot of needs Patients that experience significant post op sensitivity So how does it work? Oral medications are used to relax the patient. No IVs are involved. These medications result in little or no anxiety during the dental appointment. Patients are aware of their surroundings and can respond physically and verbally when asked. This is not sleep sedation. One may feel that they slept through the appointment due to little or no memory of the appointment, but that in fact is not true. No need to avoid the dentist any longer. Give Dr. Kathryn Buss...
read moreWho Needs a Mouth Guard (Athletic Guard)? Why Do You Need a Mouth Guard?
A mouth guard, commonly known as an athletic guard, is recommended for both children and adults that play sports. Some examples of these sports are football, soccer, hockey, field hockey, lacrosse, basketball, baseball, softball, karate, wrestling and boxing. Basically, for any activity that poses a risk to damaging the oral cavity a mouth guard is strongly advised. Mouth guards help prevent broken or chipped teeth, nerve damage to teeth, tooth loss, as well as soft tissue damage around gums, lips and tongue. Accidents do occur while playing sports and it is best to protect your teeth by wearing a mouth guard during a game or practice. A mouth guard will lower the risk of injuries to the mouth by absorbing shock from an impact. Custom mouth guards made by your dentist allows for the best fit. A dentist will take molds of your teeth, then using the molds and a special mouth guard material, your dentist or a professional lab will create a custom mouth guard that fits perfectly to your teeth. It would be specific to your mouth. Due to the perfect fit custom guards are the most comfortable and provide the highest protection. They are durable, tear...
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