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The word ‘Orthodontics’ isn’t likely to be a common word in your vocabulary. However, if you’re accustomed to seeing people with braces, you know more than you think you do. In this article, we will discuss all that orthodontics entails.

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis and correction of a bad bite. Most times, an orthodontist near you will use braces to achieve this purpose. A bad bite is a result of crooked teeth that fail to fit together. With the help of the right orthodontist in Houston, TX, your crooked teeth can become straight. Many people don’t know that orthodontics in Houston goes beyond physical appearance. Crooked teeth are a risk for tooth decay or periodontal disease because they’re difficult to clean. They also make chewing a rigorous chore, leading to headaches and shoulder or even back pain. When you go for orthodontics in Houston, TX, you can take care of all these problems. How do you know that you need orthodontics in Houston?

Do You Need Orthodontic Treatment?

If you have a bad bite, then you need orthodontic treatment. There are many forms of a bad bite. The overbite is the kind where the upper front teeth stick over the lower teeth. In the case of the underbite, the reverse happens. The lower teeth stick over the upper teeth. A crossbite is a situation where the upper teeth fit behind the lower teeth when your mouth is closed. A person that has an open bite will notice that there is a vertical gap between the front lower and upper teeth when they bite down. Orthodontics in Houston will help you with these situations. There are other dental anomalies that an orthodontist in Houston, TX can correct. Let’s see what.

Beyond a bad bite, you need orthodontics if you have a misplaced midline. In this case, the center of your upper and lower front teeth don’t line up. Are there random gaps between your teeth? If yes, you will benefit from orthodontic treatment. The same goes for you if your teeth are too crowded.

How Does Orthodontics Work?

Orthodontists use the many appliances available to them to realign teeth arrangement. These appliances place gentle and steady pressure on the teeth and jaw to retrain the muscles. Gradually, the teeth move into place. The appliances they use can be divided into two broad types, the fixed and removable ones. Your orthodontist will advise you on the right one for you.

We will discuss the fixed types first. Braces are the foremost example in this class. They’re the most used appliance by an orthodontist. Braces are made of bands, wires, and brackets. Bands hold your teeth in place by anchoring them. The brackets are attached to the front of your teeth and connected to the bands by archwires. Adjusting the archwires puts the needed pressure on the teeth. Braces apply sustained pressure on the teeth and jaw, moving it slowly into position. Your orthodontist will continue to adjust the braces to account for changes in realignment until the process is complete.

Special fixed appliances can be used to break habits like thumb sucking and tongue thrusting. However, they are uncomfortable because they’re attached to the teeth by bands. Orthodontists use them as a last resort when other methods have failed. Another type of fixed appliance is the fixed space maintainer. If a child loses a tooth earlier than normal, an orthodontist will fix a space maintainer at that position. This keeps the space open till the permanent tooth appears.

Removable appliances include aligners, removable space maintainers, and jaw repositioning appliances. There are also lip and cheek bumpers, palatal expanders, and removable retainers. Aligners are an alternative to braces in adults. They act just like braces to reposition teeth but they cannot be spotted easily as they lack metal wires and brackets. Removable space maintainers do the same work as the fixed ones. But, they’re made of plastic or an acrylic base and can be removed at will.

Jaw repositioning appliances are otherwise known as splints. To treat disorders of the TMJ(Temporo-mandibular joint), orthodontists fix them on the top or lower jaw. This way, they can train the jaws to close in a better position.

Can Adults Get Braces?

Yes. Aligners are popular options in adults. But, braces are best gotten in the teenage years when the jaw and teeth are yet to form fully. They’re easy to realign at this phase.

Dental crowns have become quite popular in recent years, but few people are not sure what the treatment entails. In this blog, we will discuss basic information about the procedure. Hopefully, the information will help you make an informed decision.

What is a Dental Crown?

It is a synthetically manufactured tooth (cap) used to strengthen a weakened and damaged tooth. The cap takes the shape of your natural teeth and can be designed to match the color too. Since there are several types of crowns, your dentist will help you choose the most suitable cap for your situation.

Perfect Candidates for Dental Crowns

Dental caps are versatile and can be used in various situations, including:

• To hold a cracked/ broken tooth.
• To strengthen and restore the functionality of a severely decayed tooth.
• To cover a dental implant.
• To enhance a patient’s smile.
• To protect a child’s space after the baby teeth fall off.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are several types of crowns, and the best option often depends on your dental condition and the amount you plan to use. These options include:

Metal Crowns

Metal crowns are the most popular and are often made of platinum or amalgam. They are relatively cheaper, and they can last for more than 15 years if you take proper care of them. However, they are not aesthetic, and anyone who sees you smile will know you replaced a tooth. That’s why we mostly recommend them for back teeth.

Stainless Steel Crowns

Stainless stain crowns are used temporarily as permanent crowns are being prepared in a dental lab. Once the permanent crown is ready, the dentist removes the stainless crown and replaces it with the permanent one. It is also used for kids to preserve space after baby teeth fall off. Once the permanent tooth erupts, the stainless crown falls off.

Porcelain/Ceramic Crowns

Porcelain crowns are designed to match the color as well as the shape of your teeth. They are quite durable and can last for more than ten years. However, they are slightly more expensive than their alternatives. In most cases, they are used for front teeth.

Gold Crowns

As the name suggests, a gold crown is made of gold. This type of crown is the most durable and can last for up to 20 years. It is quite visible, but most people don’t mind since gold is beautiful and classy. For that reason, we recommend gold crowns for back and front teeth.

Resin Crowns

Resin crowns are made of hard resin, and they are the cheapest option. They are also aesthetic since they can be designed to match the color of your teeth. However, they are susceptible to chips and breaks, making them the least durable. That’s why we strictly recommend them for front teeth and front teeth only.

Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal Crowns

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are made of porcelain but come with a metal base. This makes them quite strong, and you can use them for your back teeth. You can also use them for front teeth since they are aesthetic.

However, the metal line at the support of the crown starts to show with time. For that reason, some people don’t see them as an ideal option for front teeth. We are here for you if you are looking for dental crowns near you in Houston.

Dental Crowns Cost

The cost of crowns is affected by several factors, including:

• Location: The cost of dental crowns in Houston, TX, is probably not going to be the same as the cost of the same procedure in Bronxville.
• Your dentist’s experience.
• Location of the target tooth: Typically, it will cost you more for back teeth.
• Type of the material.

Typically, the resin is the most affordable, while porcelain and gold are the most expensive. Your dentist will explain the cost of each and help you choose the most suitable option.

Dental Crowns Durability

The durability of your treatment will depend on how well you take care of it and the material of the crown. For example, a gold crown will typically last longer than a resin crown. Still, even the least durable crown is worth the price.

Oasis Modern Dentistry

If you are looking for a dentist in Houston, TX, you are in the right place. We provide high-quality services, and you can count on us for all types of dental services. Book an appointment now.

You may have convinced yourself that you are brushing and flossing as recommended by your dentist to maintain excellent oral hygiene. Therefore you think six-monthly results to your dentist for exams and cleanings, which are part of preventive dentistry, are unnecessary. We believe you are committing an error by ignoring the benefits of preventive dentistry.

Preventive dentistry is not just about visiting the dentist’s office to greet the staff and the dentist. Preventive dentistry is a dental treatment focusing on protecting your teeth from standard dental issues. The therapy entails regular dental checkups, cleaning, fluoride treatment, and others. Let us convince you to think differently about preventive dentistry by providing information about its benefits.

Preventive Dentistry Helps Dentists Detect Problems Early

Dental problems like tooth decay or periodontal disease do not display any symptoms until things have gotten out of control. The optimal way to have these problems detected early and treated is to visit preventive dentistry in Houston, TX, for an assessment. During your routine exam, the Houston dentist examines your teeth and gums to detect signs of plaque buildup. If the presence of decay is detected, prompt treatment is provided to remove the rot before it can cause more harm.

Decay and Cavities Are Prevented by Regular Dental Checkups

Part of the services offered by preventive dentistry in Houston is deep cleaning. A professional deep cleaning helps dentists to eradicate any plaque buildup that has hardened into tartar. Plaque begins to form on your teeth immediately after you eat or drink. Brushing is indeed helpful to remove some plaque, but leftovers harden into tartar, and removal is challenging merely by brushing or flossing. Deep cleaning is essential for a dental professional for removal. During the routine dental exam, professional teeth cleaning is also provided as part of the checkup.

Preventive Dentistry Strengthens Your Teeth

Preventive dentistry from the dentist in Houston, TX, gets you advice to use fluoride toothpaste every day to strengthen your teeth. Your teeth require calcium and phosphate, and fluoride can promote the reabsorption of these minerals to your teeth. The minerals shield your teeth from acid attacks produced when you have sugary foods and beverages to reverse mild dental decay.

The dental clinic also provides in-office fluoride treatments with higher concentrations of fluoride than toothpaste. Adults who are prone to cavities are routinely recommended fluoride treatments. Children also benefit from fluoride treatments. However, risks of an overdose are ever-present with fluoride treatments for children. Therefore you must initially discuss with the pediatric dentist before you think about this treatment for your child. Proper dental hygiene is also critical for children because they are at a higher risk of dental caries.

Your Oral and Overall Health Improves with Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dentistry strengthens your teeth but cannot prevent chips and cracks from developing on occasion. When you undergo routine dental exams, your dentist can identify the tiny gaps to fill a dental filling to help you maintain your appearance. Dental decay is the primary reason why many people develop periodontal disease. Gum disease can affect overall health to increase your heart disease risks, diabetes, respiratory disease, and cancer. Furthermore, preventive dentistry detects conditions like high blood sugar early before symptoms are visible. When you maintain excellent dental hygiene, you benefit from both oral and overall health.

Preventive Dentistry Can Lead to Savings

When you fall prey to severe dental decay, you need expensive dental treatments to overcome them. Even worse is the fact that decay can result in tooth extraction requiring cosmetic and restorative dental procedures like dental implants or bridges to replace the tooth. These treatments can break your bank, but if you are undergoing regular dental exams and checkups of preventive dentistry, you can avoid these treatments merely by having regular cleanings.

What Must You Do?

Besides visiting the Houston dentist for six-monthly exams and cleanings, you need to have a dental hygiene regimen of the highest quality. You must limit the consumption of sugary foods and beverages and quit smoking if you are a smoker. Do not forget to ask the dentist to screen you for oral cancer during your six-monthly visits. It is another preventive method to ensure your mouth is healthy and not affected by any severe conditions.

An adult can have up to 32 teeth. However, you can have 28 if you get your wisdom teeth extracted. Anything less than 28 may affect your teeth’s alignment, speech, and smile. That’s why it is crucial to address an infected tooth as soon as possible to avoid the infection from spreading and losing a few teeth.

One infected tooth can spread the infection to the others, and you may end up extracting more than two teeth. A chipped or cracked tooth, on the other hand, increases the risk of developing infections and ruins your smile if it’s a front tooth. Luckily, severely decayed, chipped, cracked, or infected teeth can be fixed using dental crowns.

In this blog, we will cover things to consider before choosing a dental crown. But before we get to that, here are the times your dentist may recommend a dental crown.

Reasons to Get a Crown

• To strengthen a severely decayed tooth
• To protect a cracked or chipped tooth.
• For aesthetic purposes
• To replace a missing tooth.
• After a root canal treatment

Here are a few things you should consider while choosing a dental crown.

Examine the Need for a Dental Crown

As we’ve seen, a dental crown can be used for both cosmetic and restorative purposes. If you plan to get a dental crown for purely cosmetic purposes, you might want to consider other less invasive procedures. Crowns are slightly expensive and non-reversible, so you must be sure that’s what you want. Dental bonding and veneers are less expensive, less invasive, and can still enhance your smile.

However, if you need a restorative solution, a dental crown is fantastic. In most cases, it will be held by bridges or implants. It will function and feel like a natural tooth. We are here for you if you require dental crowns in Houston, TX.

Compare the Materials

Dental crowns are mostly made of various materials, including:

• Metal alloys
• Gold
• Porcelain/ Ceramic
• Resin
• Stainless steel

Stainless steel crowns are made for temporary purposes, mostly used while a permanent crown is being made.

Compare the Costs

Every dental insurance policy is different. Some cover dental crowns cost while others don’t. Make sure to confirm with your provider before settling on any type of crown. That said, each material comes at its own cost.

• Porcelain crowns are more expensive than metal and resin crowns.
• Resin crowns are the most affordable.
• Gold crowns are as expensive as porcelain crowns.
• Metal crowns are relatively affordable.

Consider Durability

Typically, the durability of a dental crown is determined by its material.

• Gold crowns are the most durable and can last for more than 20 years.
• Resin crowns are the least durable, but their price is justifiable since they are cheaper.
• Metal crowns are as long-lasting as gold crowns.
• Porcelain crowns are durable but not as durable as gold ones.

If you grind your teeth, it will be better to lean on metal and gold crowns since they last longer. Resin crowns may not last long enough for people who grind their teeth.

Appearance

As much as you might want something that lasts for years, it is essential to ensure it is aesthetic.

• Gold crowns are noticeable, but most people don’t mind it, so you can use them for both front and back teeth.
• Metal crowns are quite noticeable too, but not as aesthetic as gold. For that reason, they are highly recommended for back teeth.
• All-porcelain crowns match the color of your teeth, making them the most aesthetic. They are mostly recommended for front teeth.
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns also match the color of your teeth. However, the metal line may become visible with time. For that reason, they are mostly recommended for back teeth.
• Hard resin crowns also match the color of your teeth, making them perfect for front teeth.

Wrapping Up

Your dentist will help you choose the most appropriate crown for your condition. The above information is just to provide you with an idea of what you should expect. Your dentist understands your situation better and cannot mislead you. Therefore, listen to him when he chooses a certain crown for you. Talk to us if you need dental crowns in Houston, TX.

OASIS Modern Dentistry,

We are here for you if you require dental services in Houston, TX. You can count on us with both restorative and cosmetic procedures, including dental crowns in Houston. Book an appointment today.

Do you have a dental phobia to an extent you would rather suffer the agony of a toothache than visit a dentist? If so, you don’t have to suffer from toothache and infections anymore for long without treatment. With sedation dentistry, your dentist can help you feel less anxious and relaxed while sitting in the dental office.

Your dentist can utilize sedation dentistry for invasive procedures to simple ones such as teeth cleanings. Sedation dentistry utilizes medications that help a patient feel relaxed during dental procedures. During the process, you might be awake or unconscious, depending on the sedation technique your dentist used.

The levels of sedation that your dentist might use includes:

• Minimal sedation whereby you are awake but feeling relaxed
• Moderate sedation where you might not be awake but not remember much of the procedure
• Deep sedation whereby you are at the edge of consciousness but can wake up with a tap on your shoulder or gentle shake
• General anesthesia in which you are unconscious and can’t remember anything from the procedure

Sedation Techniques in Dentistry

Depending on your condition and the dental procedure, our dentist  at OASIS Modern Dentistry can use the sedation techniques below:

Minimal Inhaled Sedation

When utilizing this sedation technique, your dentist in Houston, TX, will apply a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen gas through a mask. During the procedure, the dentist can regulate the amount of nitrous oxide you inhale, and the gas tends to wear off quickly.

Therefore, your dentist will consider using nitrous oxide to provide relaxation during short and minimally invasive dental procedures. Also, the dentist will still administer local anesthesia to numb the area of treatment. After the procedure, your dentist can clear you to drive yourself home since the effects of nitrous oxide wear off immediately.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation utilizes pills that help you feel relaxed during a dental procedure in case you have dental phobia. Depending on the total dose your dentist gives, the levels of sedation range from mild to moderate.

For mild oral sedation, the dentist will ask you to swallow a Helicon pill an hour before the dental procedure. The pill will make you feel drowsy during the procedure, but you will still be awake. For moderate effects when receiving sedation dentistry in Houston, Tx, the dentist will prescribe a larger dose.

When under oral sedation procedure, some patients feel groggy enough to fall asleep, but can still awaken with a tap on their shoulders.

Moderate IV Sedation

When receiving sedation dentistry in Houston, the dentist can consider IV sedation for moderate effects. The technique offers quick sedation since the dentist administers the medications via your blood vessels.  This technique allows your dentist to adjust the levels of sedation continually.

You are likely to fall asleep during the procedure and slur through your words, but you can awaken with a gentle shake.

Deep Sedation Using General Anesthesia

Your dentist can administer general anesthesia even when you don’t have a dental phobia. When you need a more invasive dental procedure that takes long, your dentist might consider general anesthesia. During the procedure, you will be completely unconscious and can’t remember anything from the moment the anesthesia takes effect.

While under general anesthesia, you are asleep and can’t wake up until it wears off or your dentist in Houston, TX, uses reverse medications. Before the procedure, your dentist recommends you arrange a ride home since the effects might take time to wear off after the procedure.

What Are the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry offers several benefits to patients. One of the ways people benefit from sedation dentistry is feeling like the procedure was only a few minutes, whereas it took hours. Therefore, for those who are undergoing smile makeovers and extensive rebuilding dental procedures, you can benefit from sedation dentistry.

Overcoming fear and anxiety is one of the goals of applying sedation dentistry during dental procedures. When under sedatives, you are likely to feel more comfortable on the dentist’s chair. Therefore, sedation dentistry helps those with dental phobia avoid the agony associated with untreated dental problems.

Some kids tend to be restless during dental procedures, slowing down the dentist. Therefore, sedation prevents gag reflex, helping the dentist work faster.

Crooked teeth result in problems such as improper chewing and low self-esteem. Plus, they affect your dental hygiene. Having crowded teeth makes it hard to clean all the teeth giving room for bacteria to fester. Fortunately, braces can help realign the teeth and improve your smile.

When is the Ideal Time to Get an Orthodontic Assessment?

An orthodontist specializes in aligning and straightening of teeth. Our dentist in Houston, TX, recommends an orthodontic evaluation at age seven. At this age, the child’s teeth are developing, and the jaw is growing, making it easy for our dentist to detect dental abnormalities.

What Types of Braces are Available?

After an oral exam and x-ray, our dental team makes a diagnosis and advises on the best treatment plan for misaligned teeth or improper bite. For most patients, dental braces in Houston are necessary to correct the problem. Examples of such braces include:

• Metal braces. These braces are among the oldest orthodontic appliances dentists have been using for decades. They comprise metal brackets that are bonded on your front surface of the teeth.
• Ceramic braces. They are identical to metal braces in size and shape. However, they use tooth-colored brackets, making them less noticeable on your teeth.
• Invisalign. They realign your teeth using a series of clear removable plastic aligners. The aligners are custom made specifically for your oral cavity to push the teeth into the desired alignment.
• Lingual braces. They use metal, clear or ceramic brackets, but they are fixed behind the teeth. Hence, they aren’t visible when you smile.

What are the Two Phases of Orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is highly successful and depends on the severity of the misalignment. The procedure may occur into two distinct phases, as explained below:

• Phase one orthodontic treatment. It’s also known as an early interceptive treatment. Our dental team recommends it to children between the ages of six to ten before their permanent teeth come in. The goal of the phase is for permanent teeth to have adequate room for an eruption, reducing the risk of crooked and overcrowded teeth. It takes 9 to 18 months to complete the treatment.
• Phase two orthodontic treatment. Most people are familiar with this phase. Usually, it begins at around 11 to 12 years and lasts for 12 to 30 months. During this phase, we place braces on upper or lower teeth to correct overbite and underbites.

Are Braces Suitable for Adults?

Our dentist recommends braces in Houston, TX, to correct misaligned teeth at any age. The only qualification is healthy gums and teeth. Remember, braces place extra pressure on your gums.

How Long Will I Wear Braces?

The time varies from one person to another, depending on:

• The severity of the problem
• The health of the gums and teeth
• How closely you follow our instructions

On average, once we fit the braces, they remain in place for one to three years.

What Can I Expect During the Treatment?

The braces may make your oral cavity feel sore or uncomfortable. However, after a month, this will resolve since you will have adjusted to them. If the pain or discomfort is unbearable, talk to us about it.

You will visit our facility every month to check if the dental braces in Houston, TX, is releasing steady pressure on your teeth. If need be, our dental team will make adjustments to create more tension and stress on the teeth. To achieve the desired results, we may advise you to put on headgear in the evenings or throughout the night.

What Happens After the Braces are Removed?

After getting the braces off, you will feel different. Please note your teeth have been realigned, and the bite restored. For a few days, you may experience pain and sensitivity, though this will go away with time.

To maintain the alignment achieved, our dentist will fit you with a retainer. They are removable, and you may take them off if necessary. Follow our dentist instructions on proper cleaning of retainers.

Schedule an Appointment

Braces are useful in realigning crooked teeth and giving you a healthy smile. For a successful brace treatment, follow our dentist’s advice precisely. For more information, contact Oasis Modern Dentistry. Your dental health is our goal.

The alignment of your teeth is essential to give you a dignified look. A special branch of dentistry that deals with proper alignment of your teeth and smile improve your oral health and smile. The orthodontist can diagnose, prevent irregularities, and align your teeth using braces, fixed dental appliances, and removable dental appliances.

The primary reason for using braces or aligners is to straighten our teeth and correct the irregular bites. Aligners can also close the unsightly dental gaps and bring your teeth and lips in proper alignment. It is also difficult to clean the crooked teeth. The deposition of plaque and tartar can be a common issue. Aligners can fit the crooked teeth and make it easier to clean. In such away, you can reduce the chances of periodontal disease.

What are Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are transparent trays that are made of unique materials that can straighten your crooked teeth. Gentle yet constant force is applied on the teeth to bring them in position without going through the hustle of using races ad traditional metal wires. Aligners are custom-made, and each patient is made to go through a digital scan to get the correct measure of your teeth and cheeks.

Clear aligners in Houston, TX, can be provided by experienced dentists, and as the name suggests, the aligners are transparent and do not hamper your aesthetic value. Gone are the days when you had the hurdle of maintaining metal wires. With the advancement of dental science, Invisalign can straighten your misaligned teeth and let you smile freely.

Depending on the severity of misalignment, the Invisalign dentist in Houston, TX, can guide you to use Invisalign for six to eighteen months, which has to be interchanged roughly every two weeks.  An Invisalign is similar to a dental retainer and is used for orthodontic treatment.

The clear aligners are generated from a mold or impression of your teeth and is usually generated by a computer. The fitting of the aligners is unique and is fitted by the orthodontist or the dentist.

You can look for “Invisalign© near me in Houston, TX” and can get various results. You need to check whether the basic dental treatment facilities are available at the dental clinic you choose.

Invisalign vs. Braces

Gone are the days of using conventional braces. You need not linger with the metal wires and face the agonies of the metal braces. Invisalign can make you feel confident, and you can go unnoticed, yet get your misaligned teeth in shape.

A similar, more convenient way of setting your crooked teeth right, the Invisalign can be adopted with a minor change in your oral cavity. On the contrary, the traditional braces cannot be opened at will, and you need to rush to your dentist even if a metal wire comes out from the braces.

The braces complicate your oral care and are also more prone to damage when you chew some hard food like corn or taco shells. You can remove the clear aligners when you eat hard foods, and when you brush your teeth. Being easy to remove, the Invisalign is easily accessible, and are invisible.

You can smile openly without the embarrassment of hiding the bunch of metal on your teeth by using the Invisalign. The plastic-made clear aligners are mild on your cheeks and gum. You do not get cuts on your oral cavity that was a common phenomenon with the sharp edges of metal braces.

Caring for Your Aligners

The clear or invisible aligners offer multiple advantages than the traditional braces. Discreet and more comfortable to use, you do not get noticed while using Invisalign. To have better results, you should wear the Invisalign for around twenty hours a day and be removed while eating, brushing, or flossing your teeth. Special care should be taken to remove your aligners while taking hot food or beverages.

Aligners can be cleaned with regular toothpaste and toothbrush. Mere brushing your aligners can clean them. You can keep your Invisalign in a box when not in use to keep then clean.

Bottom Line

Retain your smile with proper food habits, good oral hygiene, and OASIS Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics. OASIS Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics at Houston, TX, has been providing dental care with experienced dentists. You can book an appointment and experience better dental care.

The Coronavirus Pandemic has had the world on its knees, with many nations losing people to the virus. With strict instructions to stay home as much as possible, many business and companies have halted their activities until further notice. It has also been the case for dental facilities, even though people still need dental care.

Our big challenge at Oasis Modern Dentistry is handling the different requests that stream in from patients that need dental visits. While it may not be fit to visit a dentist during the lockdown, perhaps you should consider doing it after.

Importance of Dental Visits

Many appointments to dental facilities have been delayed and canceled because of this pandemic. Most dentists in Houston, TX are stuck at home like the rest of the human population. This has put many patients at a disadvantage as matters of oral health. The same pressure has been on patients seeking services from emergency dentistry in Houston.

Even with the unorthodox state of the world, a Houston dentist will still emphasize the importance of dental health care from the comfort of your home. Some of the benefits you will be missing out on regarding dental visits include the following:

1. Teeth whitening – a whitened result on your tooth should cover you for between 6 months to a year. If it has been a while since your previous session, then the color of your teeth may not be as white as you would have them be.
2. Infection treatment – a big problem in dentistry is gum disease. The initial stage of this infection is hard to detect. The signs can easily be mistaken for other oral problems. This makes up one of the primary roles of general dentists, to check for infections during regular dental visits. Without these random trips to the dentist, you will have to detect your oral infection by yourself.
3. Nutritional counsel – it is hard to get yourself to stick to a healthy diet. With the intervention of a dentist, however, you have a fairer chance at nailing it in matters of nutrition.
4. Cavity detection – when a cavity begins to form on your teeth, it may not be as obvious to you. Before a hole forms on the enamel of your teeth, a dentist can detect signs of oral cavities before they happen.
5. Dental cleanings – deep cleans for your teeth are important to help you manage your oral health. The deep cleans are only a boost to your oral health. In between the deep cleans, it is up to you to keep up to the excellent level of hygiene.

How To Manage Your Dental Health during Lockdown

No one is sure about the date of the world with this pandemic. As the virus continues to spread, medical experts keep researching on various ways to navigate the pandemic. Whilst the lockdown remains, you must be intentional about your oral health. The following tips should help you cope:

1. Brush your teeth twice – mornings and nights should be marked by thorough tooth brushing.
2. Replace your toothbrush – if you haven’t done so for the last 3 months, consider this the perfect time to change up your toothbrush.
3. Floss daily – the tooth brushing is not enough to keep your entire oral cavity clean. Flossing helps remove the debris and plaque in between teeth.
4. Use fluoride toothpaste – it will keep your teeth white, strong, and clean.
5. Eat healthily – with more home-cooked meals today than ever before, consider choosing healthy foods for the sake of your oral health and overall body health.
6. Keep in touch with your dentist – just because you can’t walk into a dental facility as randomly as you would have previously does not mean you should lose touch with your dentist. Get a contact you can reach out to your dentist occasionally for dental health updates.

Dental Health After Lockdown

There is no particular prediction for when the virus will only be history. That said, there is still hope that life will resume to normalcy soon. As soon as this becomes a reality, the dentist should not be the last in your to-do list. If anything, on. Your way to grab some extra groceries for your home, run by a dental facility. Give your dentist a chance to update his/her records regarding your oral health.

The best way to keep your teeth strong, healthy, and brighter is by flossing and brushing them daily. However, this is not always enough. With time, you will notice the sparkle of your teeth slowly missing. This can lower your confidence and make you want to get it back as soon as possible.

If you are feeling this, you are not alone. A research conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry showed that most people think that the best way of improving their smiles is getting whiter teeth. Another study by the American Association of Orthodontists showed that almost 90% of their patients request teeth whitening.

If you are still not convinced about it, allow us to give you some facts about teeth whitening, and you can make the decision if it is worth it or not.

Why Does Teeth Change Color?

Over time, our teeth change color because of several reasons. Some of these reasons include:

Foods and Drinks

The foods and drinks play a significant role in the change of color of our teeth. Red wine, coffee, tea, and soda are the most common drinks that lead to teeth discoloration. These drinks contain color pigments known as chromogen, which attaches to the enamel causing discoloration.

Use of Tobacco

Tobacco is perhaps the leading cause of tooth discoloration in the world. It contains two elements that are well-known for causing stubborn stains. These elements are nicotine and tar. Nicotine is naturally colorless, but when it mixes with oxygen, then that’s a whole new story. It turns yellow and hence the yellow color on the teeth of most tobacco smokers.

Age

Beneath your enamel, there exists a surface called dentin. It is yellow in color, and as we age, your enamel gets thinner due to brushing exposing it. We can help you restore your bright smile if you are looking for teeth whitening Houston TX.

Trauma

If you just had an accident and a tooth or two were injured, they are likely to change color. Your teeth react to that injury by laying down more dentin, and as we have seen, the dentin is darker.

Medications

Some drugs you might be taking are capable of changing the color of your teeth. Some of the medicines that are likely to change the color of your teeth include certain antipsychotics, high blood medications, and antihistamines.

Also, young children who are exposed to antibiotics like doxycycline and tetracycline as babies may develop teeth discoloration as adults. Neck and head radiation can also darken teeth.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Whitening products containing hydrogen peroxide are used. These products break the stains on your teeth into smaller pieces making the color less concentrated and hence making your teeth brighter. Talk to us if you require teeth whitening Houston.

Does Teeth Whitening Always Work?

NO, it is always wise to talk to your dentist before you decide to go for teeth whitening. Teeth whiteners cannot correct all teeth discolorations. What causes my teeth discoloration is not what causes discoloration to another person.

For example, yellow teeth will respond to whitening to whitening products just fine, brown teeth not so much, and gray teeth may not respond at all. In cases like these, a dentist can always go for other whitening options such as veneers, fillings, or crowns.

Teeth Whitening Options

Always talk to your dentist before you decide to go for any option because you might end up wasting money on whitening on products if you are not careful. Here are the options that you have.

• Stain removal toothpaste. There are some kinds of toothpaste made with additional polishing agents to be effective for teeth whitening. However, these toothpaste can only remove stains that are on the surface.
• Over-the-counter teeth whitening products. There are different options available in the chemists that you can use to make your smile brighter. These options include tray-based bleaching agents, teeth whitening strips, and gels.
• In-office whitening. This is probably the best teeth whitening option. The whole procedure is done in a dentist’s office, and it doesn’t take more than an hour. It is quite affordable, and we highly recommend it.

OASIS Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics

Are you looking for a teeth whitening dentist in Houston? Don’t look further because you are in the right place. OASIS Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics has been operational for many years, and you can count on our experience. We will help you restore your smile, and you can also book an appointment if you are looking for services such as dental cleanings, exams, implants, bridges, and many others.

Dental crowns have been around for quite some time. They are the first choice for a lot of people looking to fix a few dental problems. In this article, we will discuss all the things you need to know about this popular dental option. Let’s get into it.

Dental Crown Defined

Your tooth is made of different parts. However, all these parts can typically be divided into two. The crown and the root. If your gums and bone are healthy, your roots are covered adequately. The crown, on the other hand, it is the visible part of your tooth. It can be seen below the gum line on your upper teeth and above the gum line in your lower teeth.

The restoration that covers the outside of a person’s tooth is known as a dental crown. The tooth crown can either be cemented or removable. It is also called a dental cap.

When is it needed?

A dental crown can be used to fix several dental problems. The following are just but a few reasons why you might need a dental crown:

Lost filling

Tooth decay can affect your tooth severely, and it has to be covered with a crown. If the cavity involves more than half of the width of the tooth, then a dental crown is necessary. Such a cavity affects the strength of your tooth, and it makes it prone to fracture. If you don’t act fast, the tooth may fracture or worse. That’s where a dental crown comes in. To prevent it from happening.

Root canal Treatment

This treatment leaves your tooth predisposed. This means that the tooth is more prone to fracture than never before. That’s why almost all root canal treatments involve the tooth being covered with a crown.

Cracked Tooth Syndrome

This is another reason why a lot of people use teeth crowns. Cracked tooth syndrome is a condition whereby a person’s tooth cracks from the inside and causes a lot of pain whenever it is used to chew.

One feels like his or her teeth are splitting apart whenever he or she is chewing. A dental crown can help redistribute the stress, which makes the pain go away. A temporary crown can be used in this case.

Broken Cusps

Trauma is usually the leading cause of cusps breaking off. Cusps are a vital part of your teeth, and they are responsible for taking most of the stress when you are chewing. If they are broken, they need to be covered with dental crowns.

Excessive Wear of a Tooth

The habit of grinding teeth makes them shorter with time. Acids can also erode one’s teeth. Acids such as bulimia, gastrointestinal acid reflux, or an acidic diet. These acids can wear away the enamel completely, which results in soft teeth. The effective way of restoring the tooth to standard size is using dental crowns to cover them.

Improve the Appearance of Your Teeth

Dental crowns can also be used to enhance the appearance of your teeth. A lot of things can affect your smile. Spaces, shapes, stains, and harmful bacteria are just but a few reasons. Dental crowns are effective in improving the appearance of your teeth.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are different types of dental crowns. The types can be divided into two: temporary and permanent crowns. Temporary crowns are made of stainless steel, and kids mostly use them. They come out naturally after permanent teeth develop. They are also used by adults when permanent crowns are being made in the lab.

Permanent crowns, on the other hand, can be made of gold, alloys, porcelain, ceramic, or resin. The kind of material you choose determines the lifespan of the crown. Gold (metal) crowns last for the longest time while all-resin crowns last for the shortest time.

However, porcelain or porcelain fused in metal crowns is the most desirable. This material matches perfectly with the color of your teeth, meaning it can even be used for front teeth, and no one will know you are using crowns.

OASIS Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics

Are you struggling with broken, infected teeth? You can count on our Dentist in Houston,TX to help you out. We accept all major PPO insurances, and our dentistry is relaxing. Our dentist can speak in English and Spanish. You can use the language you are most conversant with. Contact us today to book an appointment or if you have any questions.