By now you're probably enjoying the newfound strength and function of your teeth. Replacing your missing teeth with a fixed bridge should make a world of difference in your quality of life.
Here are a few suggestions for maintaining your new bridge:
1. Avoid hard or brittle foods, which can break the bridge.
2. Lengthen the life of your restoration with a little extra flossing and brushing to eliminate the plaque that can build up between your bridge and your natural teeth.
3. Use a floss threader or superfloss if you're having trouble cleaning between your bridge and your gums.
4. If you have soreness of feel any looseness, call us (707-552-4110).
Practice stronge dental habits with your bridge, just as you would your own natural teeth, and it will last a long time.
Thank you for choosing our dental practice. If you've been happy with the care we've provided, we hope you will share the experience with your friends and family. http://www.andyjacksondds.com/
Friday, September 23, 2011
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Your New Partial
We're betting that your teeth feel a lot stronger with your new partial. While it's true that they are stronger, keep in mind that partials themselves can be fragile. Wires and band can bend if ill-treated, and the partial can break if you drop it. Clean it over a towel just to be safe. Spend a little extra time cleaning the clasp teeth, where food often gets trapped. And please let us know if you experience any soreness that may indicate the need to fine-tune your partial.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Full Crown Restoration
Now that you've decided to get a full crown restoration, you need to choose the type you want. You have three basic choices: metal, full porcelain and porcelain-fused-to-metal (known as PFM in the dental world). Metal crowns, made of gold or alloys, are the most durable, but most people don't like the way they look. Full porcelains look and fit great, but they're best placed on front teeth where the stress isn't as great. PFM crowns are very strong and durable.
Regardless of the type of crown you choose, the process starts with preparing the tooth so your bite is secure and your gum tissue remains healthy once the new crown is in place. Whether you opt for metal, full porcelain, or porcelain-fused-to-metal, we believe that a well-built crown will improve your bite, give you a greater dental function and improve your smile.
Regardless of the type of crown you choose, the process starts with preparing the tooth so your bite is secure and your gum tissue remains healthy once the new crown is in place. Whether you opt for metal, full porcelain, or porcelain-fused-to-metal, we believe that a well-built crown will improve your bite, give you a greater dental function and improve your smile.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Dental Disease Is Not Inherited
Dental disease is preventable. Bad teeth don't "run in the family." In most cases, there is no hereditary excuse for cavities or periodontal disease. What we do pass down from generation to generation are eating habits (the type of foods we eat) and our attitude with regard to home care and visits to the dentist.
Because grandma wore dentures, there is no reason you should. We live in an enlightened age, where everybody has access to information on every aspect of dental treatment and home care. Prevention and maintenance are buzz words that everybody hears and knows. But neither can happen if you don't visit your dentist. Take that first step to a healthier you and make that call.
http://www.andyjacksondds.com/
Because grandma wore dentures, there is no reason you should. We live in an enlightened age, where everybody has access to information on every aspect of dental treatment and home care. Prevention and maintenance are buzz words that everybody hears and knows. But neither can happen if you don't visit your dentist. Take that first step to a healthier you and make that call.
http://www.andyjacksondds.com/
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
The Truth About Root Canals
If you have been diagnosed as needing a root canal, it is important that you make your decision whether or not to move forward. If you do nothing, the injured nerve in the center of your tooth is likely to become infected. If that happens, the tooth may abscess and cause a great deal of pain. At which time you will be forced to make a decision of having a root canal or having the tooth removed. If you opt to have it remove, then the question arises of how to restore function in that area (implant, bridge or partial).
Having a root canal done in a timely fashion rather than waiting until it hurts is more sensible, not mention less less painful and in many cases, less costly. The procedure entails creating a small opening in the tooth and cleaning out the inside of the tooth's root to get rid of the damaged or infected nerve. Once the tooth is completely clean, we fill it with a natural substance, "gutta percha" and seat it.
At this stage the tooth is "non-vital," which means it no longer has nerves but is still a vital part of dental anatomy. The procedure is complete when we then prepare the tooth and take impressions for a crown. This permanent restoration is then placed to protect the tooth.
Having a root canal done in a timely fashion rather than waiting until it hurts is more sensible, not mention less less painful and in many cases, less costly. The procedure entails creating a small opening in the tooth and cleaning out the inside of the tooth's root to get rid of the damaged or infected nerve. Once the tooth is completely clean, we fill it with a natural substance, "gutta percha" and seat it.
At this stage the tooth is "non-vital," which means it no longer has nerves but is still a vital part of dental anatomy. The procedure is complete when we then prepare the tooth and take impressions for a crown. This permanent restoration is then placed to protect the tooth.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Bonding
When a tooth is broken, discolored or extensively decayed, you can choose either bonding or a permanent crown to solve your esthetic problem. Here are some of the pros and cons involved in both procedures.
Bonding will give you a beautiful smile quickly at an affordable price, but it will only last for about 5 years. The color can be stained by smoking and by drinking coffee or tea. In addition, because bonded restorations are not as strong as crowns, certain foods like nuts and ice can cause them to crack or chip.
In contrast, a crown will last many years and cannot be beat for the stability and function it offers. Esthetically speaking, crowns are generally superior to bonded restorations. The longevity of any treatment and the cost of each procedure will differ from case to case.
Please call our office if you have any questions.
707-552-4110
http://www.andyjacksondds.com/
office@andyjacksondds.com
Bonding will give you a beautiful smile quickly at an affordable price, but it will only last for about 5 years. The color can be stained by smoking and by drinking coffee or tea. In addition, because bonded restorations are not as strong as crowns, certain foods like nuts and ice can cause them to crack or chip.
In contrast, a crown will last many years and cannot be beat for the stability and function it offers. Esthetically speaking, crowns are generally superior to bonded restorations. The longevity of any treatment and the cost of each procedure will differ from case to case.
Please call our office if you have any questions.
707-552-4110
http://www.andyjacksondds.com/
office@andyjacksondds.com
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Considering Crowns Or Fixed Bridgework?
Once your need for restorative dentistry has been identified, we should explore the issue a bit further. Crown and bridgework supports your teeth so that they work together properly, and help balance your entire dental arch. The quality and longevity of today's restoration have saved many a patient from the brink of dental disaster.
When you decide to move forward with your treatment, please know it will be a two visit procedure. The first visit will involve preparing the "abutment" teeth for the crowns. We will decrease the tooth's surface by 1 1/2 to 2mm so the teeth slightly taper toward the occlusal or biting surface. An impression is taken of the area. Temporary crowns are placed that will keep your teeth functioning normally, until the first restoration comes back from the lab.
On your second visit, the temporaries are removed and the permanent bridge is centered in place. Tiny adjustments may be necessary to assure that you have just the right fit. After some very brief home care instructions, you are ready to leave.
We value your dental health, comfort, and the importance of your smile as part of a healthy, confident appearance.
If you have any questions, concerns or would like to make an appointment, please call 707-552-4110
Dr. Andrew S. Jackson
When you decide to move forward with your treatment, please know it will be a two visit procedure. The first visit will involve preparing the "abutment" teeth for the crowns. We will decrease the tooth's surface by 1 1/2 to 2mm so the teeth slightly taper toward the occlusal or biting surface. An impression is taken of the area. Temporary crowns are placed that will keep your teeth functioning normally, until the first restoration comes back from the lab.
On your second visit, the temporaries are removed and the permanent bridge is centered in place. Tiny adjustments may be necessary to assure that you have just the right fit. After some very brief home care instructions, you are ready to leave.
We value your dental health, comfort, and the importance of your smile as part of a healthy, confident appearance.
If you have any questions, concerns or would like to make an appointment, please call 707-552-4110
Dr. Andrew S. Jackson
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
New Dentures
Perhaps it's time to consider a new denture. You may not realize it, but the ridges of bone in your mouth that support your denture recede, causing the upper portion to move up and back and the lower denture to settle down. As a result, your chin will move closer to your nose by as much as 1/16th of an inch per year. And your bite may change with your upper teeth moving behind the lowers.
Even if your present dentures are still in great shape, changes in your mouth can date them. Replacing your dentures can give them renewed function and provide you with a more youthful appearance.
Please call our office to schedule an appointment to evaluate your dentures.
Sincerely,
Andrew S. Jackson DDS and Staff (707) 552-4110
Even if your present dentures are still in great shape, changes in your mouth can date them. Replacing your dentures can give them renewed function and provide you with a more youthful appearance.
Please call our office to schedule an appointment to evaluate your dentures.
Sincerely,
Andrew S. Jackson DDS and Staff (707) 552-4110
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
The Preview Technique
Do you have apprehensions about taking your child to the dentist for his or her first checkup? Could that be one of the reasons why you haven't made that first important appointment?
Well, your child's first visit to the dentist does not have to be for a checkup. There's no reason why it can't be a social visit to "get acquainted." If your youngster hasn't been to the dentist yet, the next time you have an appointment, take him along. Let him watch the dentist check your teeth, clean them, etc. There's no better way for a child to understand that dental care is important for your health and good looks.
Believe me, the worst first dental experience is an emergency visit for a toothache or accident-caused injury. Extensive treatment or repair on a first visit may set your child up for a chain of future, needless anxieties.
Don't avoid your child's first visit. The sooner your youngster creates a confident relationship with the dentist, the better. Start with a preview.
Well, your child's first visit to the dentist does not have to be for a checkup. There's no reason why it can't be a social visit to "get acquainted." If your youngster hasn't been to the dentist yet, the next time you have an appointment, take him along. Let him watch the dentist check your teeth, clean them, etc. There's no better way for a child to understand that dental care is important for your health and good looks.
Believe me, the worst first dental experience is an emergency visit for a toothache or accident-caused injury. Extensive treatment or repair on a first visit may set your child up for a chain of future, needless anxieties.
Don't avoid your child's first visit. The sooner your youngster creates a confident relationship with the dentist, the better. Start with a preview.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Overcoming Anxiety
There are a lot of people who will not fly because they have an extreme anxiety of fear of flying. Let's face it, a lot people do not get needed dental care because, they too, have anxiety about the dental chair. It is estimated that 10-12 million people won't go to the dentist for necessary dental work strictly because of this anxiety.
Dental care in today's modern dental office is virtually without pain. If you want some REAL pain, experience a toothache from an abscess and don't go to a dentist for relief. That's not anxiety, that's pain. Regular dental care will keep your mouth healthy and pain free. NOT going to the dentist will set you up, not for anxiety, but for a possible tooth loss accumulated by the pain you could have avoided in the first place. If you have anxiety, talk to your dentist about it and everything will be done to make sure you're comfortable.
Don't neglect needed dental care because of unwarranted anxiety.
Dental care in today's modern dental office is virtually without pain. If you want some REAL pain, experience a toothache from an abscess and don't go to a dentist for relief. That's not anxiety, that's pain. Regular dental care will keep your mouth healthy and pain free. NOT going to the dentist will set you up, not for anxiety, but for a possible tooth loss accumulated by the pain you could have avoided in the first place. If you have anxiety, talk to your dentist about it and everything will be done to make sure you're comfortable.
Don't neglect needed dental care because of unwarranted anxiety.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Importance Of Your Medical History
Your medical history has a lot to do with the method and type of treatment you will receive from your dentist. For example, if you are taking a medication that affects blood clotting time, your dentist should be aware. This may cause hemorrhaging problems with certain procedures.
If you have high blood pressure, you should certainly inform your dentist. Certain anesthetics and medications should be used in preference to others. If you have some form of heart condition, the dentist may change his method of working with you. If you have a pacemaker, have had bypass surgery or a stint, this too may change treatment. If you are pregnant, diabetic or allergic to certain medications - your dentist must know these things.
It's for your own benefit!
If you have high blood pressure, you should certainly inform your dentist. Certain anesthetics and medications should be used in preference to others. If you have some form of heart condition, the dentist may change his method of working with you. If you have a pacemaker, have had bypass surgery or a stint, this too may change treatment. If you are pregnant, diabetic or allergic to certain medications - your dentist must know these things.
It's for your own benefit!
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
The Truth About Dentures
Do you think that dentures are the ultimate "fix all?" No more dental visits, cleanings or toothaches. Think again. Nothing works as well as your natural teeth (the way nature intended). Dentures have their own set of issues. Most people adjust, and can live comfortably with a denture. One of the most vexing problems of a new denture is gagging. This foreign object causes an increased flow of saliva, which may cause a person to gag. A lozenge sucked continuously for the few days will increase swallowing and help get rid of the excess saliva. Within a few days, the body gradually adjusts to the new denture.
The upper denture is held in place by adhesion and cohesion (suction). The denture must extend slightly onto the soft palate. Unfortunately, some patients have difficulty adjusting to the back of the denture. They gag, feel uncomfortable and often plead with the dentist to shorten the denture. If he shortens the denture, the seal is lost and the denture will no longer fit properly. Again, lozenges are useful, but it is up to the denture wearer to adjust to the new environment. It might help to know that the full upper denture is almost always successful. But you must give your body a few days to get used to it.
The upper denture is held in place by adhesion and cohesion (suction). The denture must extend slightly onto the soft palate. Unfortunately, some patients have difficulty adjusting to the back of the denture. They gag, feel uncomfortable and often plead with the dentist to shorten the denture. If he shortens the denture, the seal is lost and the denture will no longer fit properly. Again, lozenges are useful, but it is up to the denture wearer to adjust to the new environment. It might help to know that the full upper denture is almost always successful. But you must give your body a few days to get used to it.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Friday, February 4, 2011
Info On Anesthetics
"Gimme more Novacaine!" "Sorry, we don't have any."
That would be a strange response, but the truth is we (dentists) don't use Novacaine (Procaine) anymore. We've come a long way in dental anesthesia. Novacaine has been replaced by safer and more effective anesthetics. One of the most commonly used today is Lidocaine, which has a more rapid onset, and in is more profound at a lesser dosage. With the newer anesthetics, there are very few side effects - if any. The loss of sensation (numbness) is localized to the area, and lasts for the duration of the treatment. Generally, by the time your appointment is over everything starts waking up.
That would be a strange response, but the truth is we (dentists) don't use Novacaine (Procaine) anymore. We've come a long way in dental anesthesia. Novacaine has been replaced by safer and more effective anesthetics. One of the most commonly used today is Lidocaine, which has a more rapid onset, and in is more profound at a lesser dosage. With the newer anesthetics, there are very few side effects - if any. The loss of sensation (numbness) is localized to the area, and lasts for the duration of the treatment. Generally, by the time your appointment is over everything starts waking up.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Younger, Longer
If you want to look younger, longer. Keep your teeth. The support provided by your teeth is critical to maintaining a symmetrical and pleasing facial appearance. The front teeth (incisors) and the eye teeth (cuspids), provide direct support to the shape of the lips, corner of the mouth, and front part of the cheeks. If these teeth are lost, and not replaced immediately, not only will it be unsightly but it may accelerate folding, drooping and hollowing of facial tissue. This may make you appear older than you are.
In an older person, missing back teeth accentuate the hollow configuration of the cheeks and deepen natural lines and wrinkles. You only have one smile - take care of it.
In an older person, missing back teeth accentuate the hollow configuration of the cheeks and deepen natural lines and wrinkles. You only have one smile - take care of it.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Spare Denture To The Rescue!
Anyone who wears a denture worries about having to go in public without it. This is understandable and also preventable. It makes sense to have a spary handy. Your dentist can have an exact duplicate made in a short time (your insurance may even pay for this).
You can take your spare with you when you travel (like you would an extra pair of glasses). This may prevent an embarrassing situation, or a spoiled trip. It will also be handy if your original denture needs repair.
You can take your spare with you when you travel (like you would an extra pair of glasses). This may prevent an embarrassing situation, or a spoiled trip. It will also be handy if your original denture needs repair.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
A SMILE
It costs nothing but creates much.
It enriches those who receive, without impoverishing those who give.
It happens in a flash and the memory of it sometimes lasts forever.
None are so rich that they can get along without it, and none are so poor but they are richer for a smile.
Yet it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed for it is something that is no earthly good to anyone until it is given away.
It enriches those who receive, without impoverishing those who give.
It happens in a flash and the memory of it sometimes lasts forever.
None are so rich that they can get along without it, and none are so poor but they are richer for a smile.
Yet it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed for it is something that is no earthly good to anyone until it is given away.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Sweet Tooth = No Tooth
If you have a "sweet tooth," you'll probably have to pay a penalty for your pleasure. This is especially true for youngsters; and that penalty will be in the form of increased dental decay. Too much sugar or sugar-sweetened foods spell trouble with a capital "T." When bacteria in plaque (a film on your teeth) feed on sugar, it forms an acid, which eats away at the teeth, causing decay and a host of other problems.
Numerous studies have proven that children, and adults who have a diet high in "sugary snacks" get more cavities than those who do not. Unless there are other health considerations, whenever possible, have a "sugar free" snack.
Even better - have a piece of fruit or vegetable.
Numerous studies have proven that children, and adults who have a diet high in "sugary snacks" get more cavities than those who do not. Unless there are other health considerations, whenever possible, have a "sugar free" snack.
Even better - have a piece of fruit or vegetable.
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