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Meriden, CT 06450
Root Canal Therapy: Do’s and Don’ts

Root Canal Therapy: Do’s and Don’ts

Root canal therapy is a painless procedure performed when decay has caused enough damage to a tooth that the tooth is dying or has already died. During treatment, your dentist or endodontist removes the diseased or damaged pulp from the tooth and then refills the tooth cavity. To ensure a successful and pleasant treatment, here are some basic do’s and don’ts to follow:

  • Do take any medication your dentist has prescribed for you to take prior to root canal therapy.
  • Don’t anticipate pain; be calm and relaxed during your treatment.
  • Do expect mild discomfort for 2-3 days following the procedure. Apply an ice pack and sleep with your head elevated to minimize swelling.
  • Don’t skip on taking prescribed pain medications, even if you are not experiencing extreme pain.
  • Do avoid biting on hard foods or meddling with the affected tooth during the course of treatment.
  • Don’t drink excessively hot or cold beverages until the completion of treatment.
  • Do continue normal brushing on the root canal treated tooth.
  • Don’t smoke or drink alcohol within 24 hours of root canal therapy.
  • Do eat a soft diet for several days and avoid chewing on the treated tooth until a permanent restoration is placed.
  • Don’t delay having the treated tooth capped with a crown or other restoration to avoid fracture or additional damage, causing failure of your root canal therapy.
  • Do contact your dental professional immediately should you have any complications or questions during your recovery, and make sure to keep any follow-up appointments scheduled by your dentist or endodontist.

Root canal therapy has a 95% success rate. By following these simple guidelines, you can help to ensure a positive result from your root canal therapy and enjoy many more years of a healthy smile.


Our dental office is located in Meriden

Tooth Replacement Options

Tooth Replacement Options

It’s more common that you might think for adults to lose one or more teeth due to injury or oral diseases. Missing teeth can make chewing and speaking difficult, not to mention lowering a person’s self esteem. That’s why it’s smart to ask your dentist about tooth replacement options, to see if one of them might be right for you.

Dental implants
When artificial tooth roots are inserted into your jaw to replace lost teeth, it’s called dental implants. It involves surgically placing a metal post into the bone under your gums. Then a crown is attached to the post, creating a natural-looking replacement tooth. Dental implants do not affect adjacent teeth, and they look and feel like natural teeth. They are also more secure than other tooth replacement options. However, to be considered for dental implants, you must be healthy overall, have a secure and strong jawbone, and have healthy gums.

Dental bridges
Also called a fixed partial denture, the purpose of a dental bridge is to “bridge” or close the gap between your missing tooth or teeth and your surrounding teeth. Your dentist bonds the bridge onto the teeth adjacent to your gap. This is called a fixed bridge. There are also removable bridges, which you are able to remove, clean, and replace yourself. Another type of dental bridge is called an implant bridge, which attaches to a dental implant. The various types of dental bridge are made from materials like gold, alloys, and porcelain.

Dentures
When you need a tooth replacement option for all or most of your teeth, dentures may be the best choice. Complete dentures are used when you have no teeth left, or the remaining teeth must be removed. These cover both your upper and lower gums. Overdentures are removable and may be used if you have some natural teeth remaining, or have dental implants. These are only an option if your remaining teeth or implants can provide enough support for the overdentures.

We look forward to seeing you in our Meriden dental office

Invisible Braces, Visible Results: Why Invisalign Is The Popular Smile Solution

Invisible Braces, Visible Results: Why Invisalign Is The Popular Smile Solution

Invisalign is quickly becoming the go-to solution for those seeking orthodontic treatment.

It’s no surprise that Invisalign has gained such widespread popularity in recent years.

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are clear, comfortable, convenient and deliver impressive results. The benefits of using Invisalign far outweigh any drawbacks- it’s no wonder why so many people are opting for this modern approach to teeth straightening.

Invisalign and its Popularity

Invisalign has become a household name since its introduction in 1997. The procedure involves a series of clear plastic aligners that gradually shift your teeth into their desired position through gentle pressure. Each set of aligners is custom-made to fit your specific dental profile and each set is worn for approximately two weeks before being replaced by the next one in the series.

Why it’s Popular

So why exactly is Invisalign so popular? For starters, it provides a level of convenience that traditional braces simply can’t match.

Additionally, Invisalign offers an aesthetically pleasing alternative to metal wires and brackets that can detract from your smile during treatment. Furthermore, Invisalign is more comfortable than traditional braces and delivers comparable results with less time investment.

And last but not least, financially speaking it’s often more cost-effective than traditional braces depending on the severity of your case. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment with Invisalign or if you’re just curious about what all the fuss is about, keep reading to learn more about what makes this clear aligner system so great!

Convenience is Key

The hassle-free process of getting Invisalign

First things first, getting Invisalign is a piece of cake. Unlike traditional braces, there are no metal brackets to be installed, no wires to be tightened, and no need for frequent visits to the orthodontist. All you need to do is have a consultation with your dentist or orthodontist, take impressions of your teeth, and wait for your custom-made aligners to arrive.

The flexibility to remove them when needed

Another great thing about Invisalign? You can remove them whenever you want!

Need to eat a sticky caramel apple? No problem.

Just pop out your aligners and enjoy that sweet treat without worrying about damaging them. Going on a hot date and don’t want metal braces in your mouth?

Easy peasy – just remove the aligners for the evening. With Invisalign, you have the freedom to take them out whenever necessary.

No restrictions on food or drink intake

Say goodbye to saying goodbye to certain foods with Invisalign! Traditional braces come with a long list of foods that are off-limits (think sticky candy and crunchy chips), but with Invisalign, there are no dietary restrictions.

Simply take out the aligners before eating or drinking and put them back in afterward – it’s that simple. Plus, because the aligners are removable, it’s easy to brush and floss properly after meals – something that can be difficult with traditional braces.

Overall, convenience is one of the main reasons why Invisalign has become so popular among dental patients today. From hassle-free appointments and installation processes, flexible usage options including removing aligners when needed without worrying about food/drinks intake restrictions makes this invisible product unbeatable!

Aesthetically Pleasing

The clear aligners are virtually invisible

One of the most significant advantages of Invisalign is that it’s virtually invisible. The clear aligners fit snugly over teeth and are made to blend with the natural color of your teeth.

Unlike metal braces, there is no need to worry about awkward smiles or self-consciousness when posing for photos or speaking in public. Invisalign allows you to go about your day-to-day activities without drawing unwanted attention to your mouth, providing a more natural look that many patients feel great about.

No metal brackets or wires to detract from your smile

Another benefit of Invisalign is that there are no metal brackets or wires to detract from your smile. With traditional braces, metal brackets can be seen on each tooth, and this can make some patients feel self-conscious. The wires connecting the brackets can also be uncomfortable and poke the cheeks and gums in a way that causes discomfort.

Boosts confidence in social situations

Invisalign adds an extra layer of confidence for those who fear being judged for their looks because it eliminates these issues. People are more likely to speak up, laugh out loud, and enjoy social interactions when they know their smile looks fantastic.

This boost in self-confidence leads to better mental health outcomes by reducing anxiety related to social situations while boosting overall self-worth. Overall, the aesthetic benefits of Invisalign cannot be overstated – it’s a game-changer for many people who desire a straighter smile without sacrificing appearance or spending years hiding behind braces.

Comfortable 

When I first got my Invisalign, I was amazed at how comfortable they were in comparison to traditional braces. No more sharp wires poking my cheeks or the dreaded tightening of metal brackets. The aligners are made from a smooth, clear plastic that molds perfectly to your teeth for a snug, comfortable fit.

No sharp edges or wires to irritate the mouth

One of the biggest complaints about traditional braces is the discomfort they cause – from cuts and sores caused by wires digging into soft tissue, to pressure on teeth that can cause headaches and jaw pain. With Invisalign, there are no sharp edges or wires to irritate your mouth. This means you can go about your day without worrying about pain or discomfort.

Smooth, custom-made aligners fit snugly over teeth

The beauty of Invisalign lies in its custom-made aligners that fit seamlessly over your teeth. Not only does this provide comfort, but it also ensures optimal results as each tooth is shifted gently into place with precision and accuracy.

Gradual, gentle shifts in teeth alignment

The gradual process of shifting teeth with Invisalign is another reason why it’s such a comfortable and pain-free option compared to traditional braces. Each set of aligners applies just enough pressure to shift your teeth slightly without causing any significant discomfort – which is perfect for those who have sensitive mouths.

If you’re looking for an orthodontic solution that’s both effective and comfortable, look no further than Invisalign. With its smooth plastic aligners that cause little-to-no discomfort, you’ll be able to straighten your smile without any hassle or pain.

Effective Results

Are you tired of feeling self-conscious about your smile? Invisalign may be the answer you’ve been searching for. Not only does it boost self-confidence, but it also effectively treats a wide range of dental issues.

Invisalign can treat a wide range of dental issues

Gone are the days where traditional braces were the only option for correcting dental problems. Invisalign technology has advanced to allow for treatment of overbite, underbite, crowding, spacing, and more. Its customized aligners gradually shift teeth into their desired position and improve overall oral health.

Comparable effectiveness to traditional braces

There’s a common misconception that traditional braces are more effective at treating dental issues than Invisalign. However, research has shown that Invisalign is just as effective as traditional braces in treating mild to moderate cases of common orthodontic problems. In fact, some patients even report better results with Invisalign due to its ability to target specific areas in the mouth.

Shorter treatment time compared to traditional braces

One major advantage that Invisalign has over traditional braces is its shorter treatment time. On average, patients wear their aligners for 12-18 months compared to an average treatment time of 18-36 months with traditional braces. This means less time spent at the orthodontist’s office and more time enjoying your new smile.

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment and want effective results without sacrificing comfort or convenience, then look no further than Invisalign. With its ability to treat various dental issues and shorten treatment time compared to traditional braces while maintaining comparable effectiveness – it’s no surprise why it’s so popular among people who care about their teeth!

Cost-effective Solution

A long-term investment that pays off in a beautiful smile.

Invisalign aligners are indeed a long-term investment worth considering if you’re looking for an aesthetically pleasing way to straighten your teeth. Compared with traditional braces, Invisalign treatment takes less time and requires fewer visits to your dentist/orthodontist’s office. In terms of cost-effectiveness, Invisalign is an excellent investment because it can provide results equal in quality and effectiveness as traditional braces while being less visible and more comfortable than them.

Considering how confident one can become after completing their Invisalign treatment, it’s worth every penny in terms of improving one’s self-image. It’s vital not only for cosmetic appeal but also oral health reasons as well since straighter teeth are easier to clean/maintain than crowded or crooked ones – which lowers a person’s risk for cavities and gum disease in the future.

Invisalign is popular because it offers far more benefits compared with conventional metal braces. Its convenience, aesthetics, effectiveness, comfort, and cost-effectiveness set it apart as a long-term investment that pays off in a beautiful smile.

It’s no surprise why Invisalign has become such a popular choice for people seeking orthodontic treatment

. With its many benefits – convenience, aesthetics, comfort, effectiveness – it’s easy to see why more and more people are choosing this option over traditional braces.

So if you’re considering orthodontic treatment but aren’t sure where to start, give Invisalign a chance! It may just be the best decision you ever make for your dental health and confidence.

Do you live in Meriden or the surrounding area? Our team is ready to help you achieve your smile goals. Schedule your appointment today.

Does Asthma Affect Oral Health?

Does Asthma Affect Oral Health?

About 20 million Americans have been diagnosed with asthma, a long-term lung disease that causes swelling and narrowing of the airways. The condition has been linked to oral health, with patients having increased risk for cavities, gum problems, and bad breath.

One of the main culprits negatively impacting an asthma patient’s oral health is the medication required to treat the condition. Some medicines, such as corticosteroids, decrease the flow of saliva. This leads to dry mouth, which in turn can increase cavities and bad breath. Dry mouth is worsened by the fact that many asthma patients breathe through their mouth. Inhaled steroids can also increase the risk of thrush, which is caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the mouth.

Here are some tips for keeping your mouth safe while still controlling your asthma:

  • Make sure your dentist is aware of your condition, as well as all medications that you are taking.
  • Rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash after using your inhaler.
  • Consider using a spacer device with your inhaler, which will spray the medication directly into your throat and avoid some of the direct risks to your mouth.
  • Bring your inhaler with you to dentist appointments, both to show it to your dentist and to have your medication available in case you experience an asthma attack at the office.
  • Ask your dentist if more frequent dental visits are recommended in your case.
  • Inquire about adding fluoride supplements to your routine, especially in areas where the water is not fluoridated.
  • Maintain good brushing and flossing habits.

If you need a dentist in Meriden contact us today

Gear up for Back-to-School Sports with Mouth Guards

Gear up for Back-to-School Sports with Mouth Guards

It’s back-to-school time and that means kids everywhere will be participating in sports. It’s time for football, soccer, volleyball, and all sorts of sports teams to get back in shape. That not only means conditioning your body, but also getting all the right gear. One item that you don’t want to forget is a mouth guard to protect yourself from mouth and facial injuries.

Dentists recommend mouth guards for participants in both high-impact sports and individual sports. Team sports often resulting in mouth injuries include football, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, and hockey. Individual sports that carry high risks include cycling, gymnastics, skateboarding, martial arts, and rollerblading.

Mouth guards are worn to protect the mouth from a variety of possible injuries. They may be minor like a chipped or cracked tooth, or cuts from biting the inside of your mouth. Worse injuries can occur like jaw fractures, and athletes might experience tooth loss or nerve damage. Fractures can cause difficulty breathing, swallowing, eating, or speaking.

Dentists suggest that many sports injuries can be avoided by wearing a mouth guard, and they are available for athletes of all skill sets and ages. They are available in most sporting good stores, or you can opt to have customized mouth guards created by your dentist. Mouth guards are even available in a wide variety of colors, so athletes can choose them to coordinate with their school colors. They are also useful for people who wear traditional braces or Invisalign retainers.

Because many sports can be risky, there’s no reason to ignore the danger to your mouth. Wear a mouth guard to protect your smile throughout the season.

We look forward to seeing you in our Meriden dental office

Choosing a Family Dentist

Choosing a Family Dentist

When you’re talking about the oral health of yourself and your family, there is no excuse for neglecting regular dental care. There are various kinds of dentists and specialists, but if you need general dental treatment, a family dentist is a great choice.

Family dentists treat common dental problems and provide maintenance care. Visiting a family dentist is the first line of defense against oral health problems. In addition to regular checkups and cleanings, you will learn preventative techniques to help you avoid issues. If the dentist diagnoses a problem and you need further treatment, a specialist in that area may be recommended to provide additional specialized care.

It is important to find the right family dentist for your needs. Look for advertisements for dentists in your area, and ask friends and family for recommendations. Visit the dental office before finalizing your selection so that you can meet the staff, see the facility and equipment, and learn more about the practice. You should feel comfortable and confident in the office policies and staff, since you are likely establishing a healthcare relationship to last for years.

Also ask about the dentist’s qualifications and experience. Make sure that the services you are interested in are offered, and that the dentist works with specialists to get you the proper treatment for those that are not offered. It is ideal to visit the dentist for minor treatment such as a professional cleaning before switching the whole family to the practice. That way you can see first-hand if the dentist meets your expectations. You may also want to schedule an appointment for your children to ensure the whole family is comfortable.

Once you and your family are confident that the family dentist is right for all of you, switch everyone to the practice and then follow up on regular dental care for the whole family.

We treat patients from Meriden and the surrounding area