5 Tips for a Healthier Smile

Benefits of Opting for Composite Dental Fillings

A dental filling is a restorative procedure used to repair a decayed tooth. The procedure involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and then replacing it with a material such as composite resin. Composite dental fillings are tooth-colored and are used to restore decayed teeth. Composite fillings offer several benefits over traditional metal fillings. Here are some of them: MINIMALLY INVASIVE PROCEDURE When you have tooth decay, the dentist will use a composite filling to repair and preserve your tooth. Unlike other procedures, composite fillings require only one appointment. The procedure is minimally invasive and can be completed in a short amount of time with little discomfort for the patient. Additionally, the filling is tooth-colored and blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. Without even noticing it, the filling will be practically invisible in your mouth. This restores not only the appearance of your smile but also your oral health. LESS TOOTH STRUCTURE REMOVAL With composite fillings, less of your tooth’s structure is affected for placement than amalgam fillings are. They are also more likely to last longer than amalgam. Additionally, a composite filling bonds to your tooth more effectively than its silver counterpart does. This improves your chances of keeping more of your natural tooth intact. This is important because the more enamel you have on your teeth, the less sensitive they will be to changes in temperature. It’s also important to note that both the placement of a composite filling and the removal of an amalgam one involves the use of a tooth-colored material instead of metal. Because of this, the application of either type of filling doesn’t stand out or leave a visible mark on your smile the way a silver filling in would.  STAIN RESISTANT MATERIAL Composite resin fillings are, therefore, a great option for filling cavities and replacing old, unsightly metal amalgam fillings. The composite resin material is the same color as your tooth enamel, so no one will even be able to tell you have had a cavity filled! Plus, the material itself is stain resistant, meaning you won’t have to worry about staining around your new tooth-colored filling like you might with a silver amalgam filling. MORE NATURAL-LOOKING TEETH With composite fillings, you can restore your teeth to their natural luster and shape. Since resin can be molded and colored to match your smile, your restoration will be virtually invisible when you laugh or speak. Although they are tooth-colored, composite fillings are not stain-resistant. That means you can still develop cavities in the areas where the fillings were placed. But overall, composite fillings can significantly improve the look of your smile. We request you schedule a consultation with our team of dental experts to get all your oral concerns addressed at the earliest. Please call us at (602) 237-7878 or reach out through online consultation, and we’ll be happy to help.

How is Stress Affecting Your Oral Health

Stress is a physical and emotional response to events that cause you to feel pressure or tension. These stressors can be positive or negative and can include anything from work-related deadlines to an upcoming wedding.  While a certain amount of stress is normal and even beneficial at times, chronic stress can take a serious toll on your physical and mental health. Some research suggests that oral health may be affected by elevated levels of stress as well. STRESS AND ORAL HEALTH When the body is under stress, it releases hormones that signal the adrenal glands to release adrenaline and cortisol into the bloodstream. This sudden surge of these stress hormones can make you feel more anxious and alert for a short time, but prolonged periods can cause both mental and physical problems. For example, constant exposure to stress hormones can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to infection, illness, and colds. You may also notice more sleep disturbances, such as insomnia. Chronic stress has also been linked to an increased risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular issues over time.  First, individuals who are stressed out may neglect their oral hygiene routines because they are too overwhelmed to keep up with them as usual. This can lead to tooth decay because plaque buildup continues on your teeth without routine brushing and flossing. Additionally, poor oral health can also cause you to feel even more stressed, creating a vicious cycle. You should also cut down on sugary snacks and beverages to keep your smile healthy and prevent decay. For chronic stress, your mouth is a haven for bacteria and other germs. That’s because when you’re stressed, you’re likely to let your oral health routine slide—skipping daily brushings and regular flossing sessions. This makes it easy for plaque buildup on your teeth. Plaque is a major cause of gum disease that can ultimately lead to tooth loss. That’s why it’s important to maintain good oral health habits while managing stress levels. In addition, if you’re feeling stressed, you may be more likely to clench your jaw or grind your teeth at night. Bruxism (tooth grinding) can cause problems with your teeth, such as tooth enamel loss, sensitivity, and pain. Even if you’re only clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth once a night, this can lead to long-term issues if left untreated. That’s why it’s important to talk to your dentist about ways to manage your stress and bruxism. At some practices, the dentist may recommend stress-reducing therapies like meditation or yoga to help patients manage their stress levels. At others, dentists may recommend non-invasive treatments like Botox® injections to alleviate the symptoms of TMJ disorder. Talk to your dentist about your options for reducing the effects of stress on your health. We request you schedule a consultation with our team of dental experts to get all your oral concerns addressed at the earliest. Please call us at (602) 237-7878 or reach out through online consultation, and we’ll be happy to help.

DIY Teeth Whitening Facts

Everyone wishes they had whiter teeth. Many people may find that DIY teeth whitening is an option. However, it is critical to understand the facts about the numerous methods for whitening your teeth at home. We at Laveen Dental believe in providing our patients with the facts about at-home teeth whitening, therefore we've produced a list of 5 facts about the procedure. Also, if you want whiter teeth that will stay for a long time, visit Laveen Dental for the best professional treatment. FACTS ABOUT DIY TEETH WHITENING Whitening Toothpaste Can Lighten Your Teeth To whiten teeth at home, use toothpaste containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. They only brighten up to two shades, so if you want your teeth lighter than that, you should see an expert. Furthermore, whitening toothpaste does not often include bleach, thus it is safe to use in your mouth. Whitening Strips Are Also Beneficial This simple do-it-yourself teeth whitening treatment uses strips that adapt to the shape of your teeth. You turn them on for a set amount of time and then turn them off for a few weeks. In-home teeth whitening strips are more effective than whitening toothpaste or baking soda at lightening your teeth. Go To A Professional For The Best Results While some at-home teeth whitening treatments are safe, they are not all. Furthermore, even the safest ones aren't as effective as having your teeth professionally whitened. If you're unsure, consult a dentist who specializes in professional teeth whitening. THE BENEFITS OF PROFESSIONAL TEETH WHITENING When you choose professional teeth whitening, you can enjoy the following advantages: Long-lasting effects Unlike other DIY regimens that produce temporary results, professional teeth-whitening produces long-term results. Teeth whitening treatments used by professionals contain more bleaching chemicals than those purchased over the counter. Customized procedures It is best to have a tooth whitening procedure suited to your specific needs. This is only available after a complete examination of your teeth, which includes x-rays and digital images. Professionals will perform these processes and then customize the teeth whitening to your specific needs. In this manner, you may verify that the process is neither too intense nor too weak to have no effect. Safer oral health The biggest disadvantage of DIY teeth whitening techniques is addressed by professional teeth whitening. It is better for your teeth and will keep your enamel intact. Your enamel is the layer of your teeth that protects them from sensitivity. Contact Laveen Dental for the best dental care. To book an appointment, call (602) 237-7878 or visit 5130 W. Baseline rd ste 111, Laveen, AZ 85339.

5 Cosmetic Dental Treatments for a Beautiful Smile

Cosmetic dental treatments performed by cosmetic dentists are the best way to enhance the smile. It helps to repair and restore damaged teeth. Listed below are five popular cosmetic dental treatments provided to patients to restore their smiles.  TEETH WHITENING A brighter, whiter smile can be achieved in as little as one visit to a dentist. Teeth whitening treatments use one of the most powerful bleaching agents, hydrogen peroxide, to lighten the natural color of your teeth. The treatment can be performed in-office or at home. Either way, it’s safe, effective, and pain-free. PORCELAIN VENEERS  Porcelain veneers are thin, tooth-shaped shells of ceramic that bond directly to the front side of teeth. Veneers are a popular option for patients who want to fix the appearance of their front teeth. They are stain-resistant so that you can enjoy your favorite foods and drinks without worry. In addition to improving the appearance of teeth, porcelain veneers can also improve teeth with chips, cracks, or gaps. DENTAL CROWNS Dental crowns are custom-made caps that fit over the visible portion of a tooth. Crowns cover the tooth and restore its appearance, shape, and strength. Dental crowns may be restorative for a tooth or cosmetic to improve the appearance of a tooth. A crown helps protect a tooth that has been weakened by a cavity or damaged by an injury. DENTAL BRIDGE A dental bridge is a treatment used to replace one or more missing teeth. Bridges are made from various materials, including porcelain, gold, or alloys. It is held in place with the help of adjacent teeth, which are minimally etched for the procedure. DENTAL IMPLANTS  Dental implants are artificial tooth roots placed in the jawbone. First, the implants are surgically placed in the jawbone. Then, the patient waits for a few months while the implants fuse with the jawbone. Finally, the dentist attaches a dental crown or bridge on top of the implant to complete the procedure. Once the implants have healed, the dentures are attached on top. Patients can also replace individual teeth with dental implants. For patients missing all their teeth, implant-supported dentures are a popular option. We request you schedule a consultation with our team of dental experts to get all your oral concerns addressed at the earliest. Please call us at (602) 237-7878 or reach out through online consultation, and we’ll be happy to help.