Month: March 2023

Best Way to Communicate with Your Dentist dallas fortworth texas champion dental clinic

When Your Doctor Won’t Listen – What Should You Do?

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Best Way to Communicate with Your Dentist

Best Way to Communicate with Your Dentist dallas fortworth texas champion dental clinic

 

Doctor’s visits can often leave you confused and frustrated. Sometimes you may feel like the visit was rushed and you did not get a chance to tell the doctor everything you wanted to say or ask about. You felt like the doctor or dentist was in a hurry and did not have time to talk. 

 

The Communication Gap

Studies have revealed that there is often a big communication gap between doctors or dentists and their patients. As many as 75 percent of doctors asked about it felt that they believed they had good communication with their patients. Patients, however, felt completely different about it, with only 21 percent feeling that they had good communication with their doctor.

Good communication is crucial to getting the treatment you need, feeling better, and getting better health. In order for this to happen, your doctor needs to know what your complaints are. They cannot treat it if they do not know it is a problem. This makes good communication mandatory, but you will need to express yourself more clearly to the doctor. 

 

Determine Why Communication Is a Problem

You need to ask yourself what is the reason behind the communication problem. Is it because you forgot to ask the doctor about the problem? Is it because the doctor is not giving you a chance to talk about your problems? Is it because the doctor is so focused on one health problem that there is not time to talk about other issues? 

 

Write Down the Topics to Discuss

If you have more than one concern, it is important to write down a list of topics. This way you are less likely to forget them when you need to talk about them. Write down the various things you want to discuss in advance. This will help you think about all of them. 

If you are having particular symptoms that you wonder about, be sure to write them down. Write down when they started, and if you can, write down what you were doing when those symptoms started. Also be sure to record the frequency and severity of the symptoms, and how long they lasted. If there is a pattern or an activity that triggers the symptoms, this will help the doctor to determine the problem better. 

 

Cover the Most Important Problems First

When you talk to the doctor, be sure to mention the most pressing problem first. This way, if you are not able to discuss anything else, the biggest problem will get covered. Think about how you need to say it in a very concise but accurate way.

 

Bring a List of Medications

Carry a list of the medications you are taking, as well as any natural supplements. You also should have a list of various illnesses or allergies that you have or have had – such as diabetes, or a heart attack. It is also a good idea to include a list of your family’s history of illnesses.

 

Use a Spokesperson

If you have trouble speaking clearly for yourself, bring someone else with you who understand the problem. This can be especially valuable for older people, or for someone who has is getting dementia. 

 

Listen to the Doctor

While you certainly want the doctor to hear your problems, it is just as important that you hear and understand what the doctor is telling you. If you do not understand terms, be sure to ask for an explanation. Or, if you feel you will not remember the details, ask the doctor if you can record the conversation.

 

Understand the Results You Should Expect

Although the doctor may prescribe some medication or recommend treatment or therapy, some of them take time to make an impact on the symptoms involved. Ask the doctor how long it will take to get recovered, and what you need to do to prevent a relapse. Are other treatments going to be necessary or ongoing?

 

Find Out about Lifestyle Habits

Many times patient recovery and a better quality of life can be gained by changing some lifestyle habits and continuing to practice them. Ask the doctor for a recommendation of habits that you may be able to change or add to your daily routine. 

The bottom line is that your doctor or dentist may feel that he or she is communicating well with you. Since you do not believe that to be the case, it really is up to you to let the doctor know about the gap in communication skills that you feel exist. If there is no response in the direction you feel should be made – find another one who will listen and that you can trust more. 

 

Although the dentist can see some of the problems your gums and teeth may have, good communication is necessary for good oral health. Champion Dental clinic understands the importance of communication between dentist and patients. We seek to develop effective communication with each visit. If you need quality dental care with a dentist who listens patiently to your needs, you can contact our office today at 214-747-0763

Gum Disease and Your Genes - Champion dental clinic dfw tx

Gum Disease and Your Genes – How to Minimize Your Risk?

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Your Genes May Cause Gum Disease

Gum Disease and Your Genes - Champion dental clinic dfw tx

 

Researchers have known for some time that there is often a connection between gum disease and your genes. The genes are not present in every case, but the presence of genes for gum disease does increase the likelihood of developing periodontitis. Genetic gum disease can also mean that periodontitis takes on a more aggressive form. 

 

Genetically Inherited Diseases

Researchers have known for about a century that periodontitis seems to travel in families. While other people who have no family history of the gum disease do get it, there does seem to be a genetic basis for it in more than 50 percent of the cases. 

It is also known that just because someone has the genes for it that it does not mean that they will get periodontitis. Although many factors are known to increase the likelihood of it, it appears that there are other factors that remain unknown. Even though it may be in your family, it also does not mean that you have the gene – but knowing whether you do or not may bring some relief.

It seems that while some genes cause some people to get the disease, there are also some genes that help to prevent it – even when they have the gene for it. This means that much more research still needs to be performed. So far, it is believed that there are more than 40 different genes involved. 

 

Why DNA Genetic Testing Is Recommended

Periodontitis is very common among adults over 30. In fact, about half of the adults in the United States have the more serious form of gum disease. This is equal to about 64.7 million people. This gum disease is the primary cause of tooth loss today. 

Periodontitis comes in two forms: chronic periodontitis, and aggressive. The chronic form spreads slowly but can be faster at times. With the aggressive form, it usually starts before the age of 30 and spreads fast. The individual with it will usually lose some of their teeth, or all of them, rather quickly.  

Knowing that an individual has a strong likelihood of developing a particular disease because of genetic testing enables them to be especially watchful for its symptoms. It will also enable dentists to design a custom treatment for it. 

Having the genes for periodontitis raises the likelihood of getting the disease by a factor of 20. Both early onset periodontitis and the aggressive forms are genetically based and DNA testing and customized medicines may be the cure. 

 

Genetic Screening May Also Help Save a Life

Over the past few years, researchers have concluded that the same bacteria that cause gum disease and inflammation is also behind the development of many diseases. These diseases are very serious and include cardiovascular disease, heart attack, stroke, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, rheumatoid arthritis, and more. 

This makes it even more important for an individual who may be genetically predisposed toward periodontitis to be sure to watch for it and stop its development as soon as possible. Gum disease starts slowly and most people do not realize that it is already affecting their body’s main organs. 

Gum disease starts out with a milder form called gingivitis. At this early stage about the only symptoms that will be noticeable are bleeding of the gums and red or swollen gums. In most cases, all that is needed to remove it is to brush your teeth twice daily and floss. 

Those who have the genes for it, however, may not be able to prevent or remove it so easily. Even in the early stages, it can be more difficult to treat. Getting genetic testing early can enable a dentist to be ready to treat the patient with a customized plan, enabling the problem to be removed sooner without unnecessary delay. 

 

The Symptoms of Periodontitis

As gingivitis progresses, it slowly becomes periodontitis. As it does, you will notice some or all of the following symptoms of periodontitis: 

  • Receding gums
  • Pus forming at the gum line
  • Gums that have pulled away from your teeth – forming pockets
  • Spaces developing between teeth
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Teeth that are becoming loose

 

Key Risk Factors

In addition to the possibility of a genetic reason, there are also several other risk factors that can promote periodontitis. They include:

  • Not exercising good oral health – this is the primary reason
  • Smoking or using tobacco of any kind – this is another powerful cause.
  • Heavy drinking of alcohol
  • Diabetes
  • Medications
  • Pregnancy

 

If you suspect that you might have genetic gum disease, you can get DNA testing for it at our Champion dental office, Farmers Branch – Texas For more information about our services, or to set up an appointment, you can call us at 214-747-0763

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Pinhole Surgery – Everything You Need to Know

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Looking for a Non-invasive Way to Get Gum Surgery?

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When you have receding gums because of gum disease, a new non-invasive technique called pinhole surgery can give you beautiful gums again. The procedure is fast and requires very little downtime. You also will not need to worry about stitches and it is not considered to be painful. 

 

What is Pinhole Surgery?

Pinhole surgery is a rather new way to provide receding gums treatment. Invented by John Chao, DDS, MAGD several years ago, it is becoming the increasingly popular way to treat gum recession. 

Periodontal disease causes recession of the gums, as well as erosion of the jawbone. Treating the disease often still leaves the gums unattractive. Up until recently, the most common way to treat the gums so that their natural and healthy appearance is regained is through gum graft surgery – with or without a laser. This older type of surgery requires the use of stitches and is rather painful.

The new pinhole surgery technique is revolutionary in that no stitches are required, and it is much less painful. It is also scalpel-free. After making a small hole in your gums above the teeth, special tools are inserted into the hole that enables the surgeon to gently lift the gums off the teeth and slide them down – covering the exposed roots and restoring the natural gum line. 

Although no stitches are used, oral surgeons will likely place collagen strips under the gums to provide support and keep them in their new position. Some surgeons will also place platelet-rich fibrin membranes under the gums, but this is at their discretion. 

An additional advantage of pinhole surgery for gum recession is that it is fast. Dental surgeons can correct the gums over many teeth at one time – often in less than an hour. Patients get to see immediate results.

There also is very little post-operative pain. It is also long-lasting. Patients can expect there to be little or no downtime, and they are able to eat a normal dinner the same evening. 

 

Who Can Go for Pinhole Surgery?

Most anyone is a good candidate for pinhole surgery. You need to be in rather good health and have moderate to severe gum recession. 

Patients that have rampant gum disease will need to have it treated prior to the pinhole surgery. This helps to ensure that the surgery’s effects will be longer lasting. It also ensures that your gum disease is still not causing further damage to your gums and jawbone. 

 

Pinhole Surgery Aftercare

Once the surgery has been completed, there is little aftercare needed. The patient will need to return to the surgeon’s office for a checkup after a couple of days to ensure that there are no problems. 

The success of the surgery will partly depend on the patient following the advice of the surgeon after the surgery. This includes not brushing aggressively once given clearance to brush. Patients who grind their teeth (bruxism) may need to wear a dental appliance to prevent damage to the gums. 

 

Advantages and Complications of Pinhole Surgery

The pinhole surgery technique puts gum treatment on a whole new level. It is much faster than traditional gum surgery, and it is usually completed in an hour or less. Once completed, you can also leave the office right away, because there is no need for a period of recovery. 

Patients also do not need to put up with a lot of pain in the roof of their mouth, which is usually where the material for the new gums is taken from in a gum transplant. You also do not need to be concerned about a special diet during recovery time. Pinhole surgery is considered non-invasive, and patients can see the results immediately. 

With normal gum grafting procedures, which uses cutting and stitches, patients can expect healing to take between 14 to 21 days. The pinhole surgery method enables patients to go back to work immediately. In addition, gum grafting may require multiple surgeries, especially when there is more extensive damage. It can take up to a year to complete one person when several surgeries are needed. 

Although there are a few possible complications with pinhole surgery, they are much fewer than might be experienced with traditional gum grafting. Since there is no cutting, there is a much smaller risk of infection, even though a few tiny holes will be made. These holes heal quickly, which reduces the risk of infection considerably. 

 

Cost of Pinhole Surgery

The pinhole gum surgery cost is similar to regular gum graft surgery. The advantage in cost is that you do not need to return for multiple treatments, and it is often completed in one appointment. 

 

If you live in and around Farmers Branch TX area and need receding gums surgery, you can contact Champion Dental Clinic specialists for pinhole surgery. We perform pinhole gum surgery and regularly treats patients for periodontal disease. For more information about our dental services and offers, or to set up an appointment, call us at 214-747-0763

5 dental symptoms not to ignore farmers branch champion dental clinic best dentist dallas fortworth texas

Which 5 Dental Symptoms You Should Never Ignore?

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It could cost you more than you think

5 dental symptoms not to ignore farmers branch champion dental clinic best dentist dallas fortworth texas

When you have dental symptoms that are not normal, it indicates that there is a potential problem. The problem may not be something to get concerned about, but, on the other hand, it could indicate a major threat to your health. It is not unusual for sores and other problems to occur in the mouth, but some indicate the need to see a dentist soon. 

 

Oral Cancer

Every year, oral cancer continues to rise. This year, more than 51,000 people will be diagnosed with it. This cancer typically spreads fast, making the need for early detection very important. 

Oral cancer is often without any pain in the early stages. This makes it hard for someone to know that they have it unless they are watching for symptoms, but a dentist can better detect them. The symptoms may also occur in the throat and may be very difficult to see. 

Oral cancer symptoms may include red or white patches in the mouth or lumps in the neck or throat area. Other sores may also become cancerous. Any sore that has not healed within two weeks should be seen by a dentist. A dentist is trained to recognize cancer and other diseases, and can also take initial biopsies. 

 

Pain in a Tooth

When you have strong pain in a tooth, it is time to see a dentist. Most likely, you already have made an appointment because the pain is almost unbearable and you want relief. If the tooth really hurts, you may also have inflamed gums and pus at the gum line. This could be an abscessed tooth.

An abscessed tooth is a serious problem. The inflammation can easily spread, especially if it is in your upper jaw, into your face and even your brain. If this happens, it could be fatal. Most likely, it will mean that a root canal is needed. 

 

Loose Teeth

If one or more of your teeth have become loose lately, you need to see a dentist quickly. This is a symptom of advanced periodontitis, but other things can cause it as well. Gum disease is often nearly painless until it reaches the advanced stages, and you will most likely experience pain when you try to bite down on those loose teeth. 

Bleeding gums are another symptom of gum disease. You will also likely have inflamed gums and pus along the gum line. Your gums will also have started receding, and you will likely have chronic bad breath. 

Periodontitis is caused by an immune reaction to bacteria invading your gums. The immune reaction becomes an autoimmune reaction and it starts attacking your gums, the ligaments that support your teeth, and your jawbone. 

Once your teeth become loose, it is certainly time to visit your dentist. Special gum disease treatment is needed to remove the bacteria. The longer you wait, the greater the damage. In order to remove the bacteria and inflammation, the dentist will need to give you antibiotics and may need to perform a non-surgical procedure called scaling and root planing – which removes the bacteria from the pockets that have formed on your gums. 

Surgical procedures may also be needed to replace missing gum tissue. In order to replace missing teeth, bone and gum grafts may be necessary. 

 

Dry Mouth

Having a dry mouth may not seem much like one of the dental problems you should watch for, but it really is. This problem can be serious if you are concerned about keeping your teeth looking good. 

Your saliva helps keep the bacteria and acid in your mouth under control. Whenever some of the bacteria come in contact with sugar, it produces acid. The acid is what causes cavities. Without enough saliva, there is more bacteria and acid in your mouth, which leads to developing sensitive teeth and cavities sooner. It will also help to promote gum disease.

Staying hydrated will help you produce more saliva, and so will chewing sugarless gum. Stay away from drinks that are considered diuretics, which include coffee, tea, alcohol, and more. Since some medications can also cause it, you may need to talk to your doctor about changing medicines.

 

Tooth Sensitivity

When a tooth becomes sensitive, it is because the enamel has become thin. Because of the thin enamel, the food particles, spices, and hot or cold temperatures can penetrate it and get to the nerve inside the tooth. This causes pain. 

The pain is an indication that a cavity is on the way. It already needs to be repaired. In some cases, tooth sensitivity may result from some dental treatments, but it will usually go away after a few days. 

 

If you have any of the above dental symptoms, you can get dental treatment for all of them from Champion Dental Clinic, Farmers Branch, TX. We regularly treats dental problems ranging from oral cancer to periodontitis – and much more. 

Sedation dentistry farmers branch texas champion dental clinic

The Complete Guide to Sedation Dentistry

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Answers to Your Questions About Sleep Dentistry

Sedation dentistry farmers branch texas champion dental clinic

If you are nervous about going to a dentist, especially when you know a tooth needs to be pulled – or for any treatment, sedation dentistry may be just what you need. Sedation dentistry helps you to relax while you are in the dentist’s chair and being treated. Instead of panicking, you can be calm – and awake.

 

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry, which also goes by the name of sleep dentistry or twilight dentistry, is a method of relaxing a patient while undergoing a dental procedure. Many patients greatly fear the dentist’s chair – so much so, that they are willing rather to endure a lot of pain and ignore even necessary treatment. 

Various medications are available to help patients relax with anesthesia, but they are not given enough to render them unconscious. The different medications used will depend on the amount of anxiety. It may also just mean that you are given an extra dose of the anesthesia. 

 

Who can go for sedation dentistry?

Since there are different types of sedation dentistry, the dentist will decide on the best kind, depending on the patient’s needs. If a patient is afraid of needles, for instance, the dentist would not want to recommend IV sedation dentistry. The very thought of it for such a person would likely cause more fear than the treatment would. 

People who would be the most likely candidates come under different categories. They might include people who have:

  • Had a bad dental experience in the past
  • A resistance to local anesthetics
  • Especially sensitive nerves in the mouth
  • A phobia about dental procedures 
  • General anxiety disorder. 

Sedation dental care can be given for any type of dental care, but it is not usually used for ordinary procedures such as teeth cleaning. In some cases, however, it may be applied as needed. 

Patients who have medical problems or mental conditions may need to get a clearance from their doctor before undergoing twilight dentistry. Problems that may require it include people with hypertension, cardiac disease, respiratory diseases, and diabetes. 

 

What can you expect from sedation dentistry?

When the dentist administers a medication to help you relax, you will still be awake and know what is going on around you. The strength, or dose, of the gas or medication will determine how anxious or alert you are. In general, you will be conscious and still able to respond to the dentist. 

Even though the medication will make you very relaxed, you will still be given some local anesthetic. By that time, you will be very relaxed and are not apt to be bothered about it at all. Besides that, the medication will cause you not to remember it anyway. 

While you are sedated, the dentist and staff will watch your vital signs. They will monitor your pulse, blood pressure, your respiratory rates and your oxygen saturation level. 

 

Different types of sedation used

There are several types of sedation that are commonly used. General sedation, which means being totally unconscious is not considered a part of sedation dentistry, but it may also be available for some treatments. The three types include:

  • Nitrous oxide – This gas is also called “laughing gas” and it is administered through a mask over the nose. Once the treatment is completed, you will be given pure oxygen which will bring you out of the relaxation state quickly – and you will probably even be able to drive home. 
  • Oral sedation – This method provides a pill to enable patients to relax. No needles are necessary to be comfortable, but local injections are still likely to be used. The pill most commonly used is Halcion, and it can produce a minimal to moderate level of sedation. It is given about an hour in advance of treatment. 
  • IV sedation – This method of relaxing patients is quick because it is given directly into a vein. It can also be adjusted easily as needed by the dentist at any time during the procedure. It will enable a deeper level of sedation. Coming back to normal levels of consciousness will take some time. 

 

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Sedation dentistry is considered safe, but there are some precautions. An important concern is that the dentist needs to be aware of any prescriptions and supplements that you are taking in advance. Interactions between the anesthesia and other medicines and supplements could have serious side effects if the dentist is not aware of them. 

Dentists are trained to use certain types of medications for sedation. Each type requires different training, so it may be rather common for a dentist to bring in another doctor or dentist who is trained to monitor the patient. 

 

Cost of sedation dentistry

When you choose to get sedation dentistry, it will cost more than traditional local anesthesia. If you choose intravenous sedation, the cost will range from $290 to $340 for 30 minutes. After that, it will cost an additional $100 for every 15 minutes. Other types of sedation will cost around $175. 

 

If you live in the Farmers Branch TX area, you can get sedation dentistry from Champion Dental clinic . We offer painless dentistry and many other dental services. For more information about his services, or to set up an appointment, you can call our office at 214-747-0763

Baby Teeth Cavity dfw tx champion dental surgeon

Baby Teeth Cavity – Should It Be Filled or Not?

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Can an Untreated Cavity Affect New Teeth?

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Although it may surprise some people, baby teeth are just as susceptible to getting cavities as regular teeth. This means that daily care of baby teeth is as much needed as the permanent teeth will require later. When there is a baby teeth cavity, it is often important to fill it rather than to ignore it. 

 

The Source of Cavities

When it comes to tooth decay, there is one basic cause – bacteria. Some of the more than 500 different types of bacteria in the human mouth produce acid whenever they come in contact with sugar. By leaving the bacteria on the teeth (plaque) for prolonged periods of time, it gives the acid opportunity to slowly erode the enamel on the teeth. This soon leads to cavities in many people – and young children.

 

The Cause of Cavities in Kids

Baby teeth (also called milk teeth) have several ways that they can develop cavities. It is important to know that some toddler’s teeth are not as resilient to cavities as other children. Some children can take care of their teeth and develop cavities, and other children may eat lots of sugar and have poor oral care and not develop cavities. While it may run in families, it is not always the case. 

 

  • Baby Bottle Tooth Decay – Leaving a baby with a bottle of milk or juice to fall asleep with is something that many parents do. Unfortunately, it only promotes the growth of the bacteria and acid that causes cavities. Water is a much better and healthier option. 
  • Juice Is Acidic – While juice without added sugar is generally healthy, it needs to be remembered that it is acidic. This adds to the acids created by the bacteria in the mouth and will speed up decay. Drinking water afterward will help remove the sugar and acid. 
  • Too Much Sugar – Kids naturally love sugar, but parents often give them too much. Some kids are eating as much sugar as is recommended for adults, which should not surprise anyone that it leads to tooth decay. The sugar promotes the growth of the bacteria that produces the acid that destroys tooth enamel.
  • A Lack of Fluoride – Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen the teeth against cavities. It helps the teeth to regain minerals lost daily to acid. Even when children do drink water, if there is no fluoride in it, they are missing out on this important ingredient for teeth protection. While children under two years old do not need additional fluoride, those older than this do, but too much is also harmful. 

Fluoride treatments can be given at the dentist’s office. The application of fluoride will help prevent cavities. It is especially important in children who may be more susceptible to cavities. It is applied as a foam, a gel, or a varnish. It can actually help eliminate a cavity if the cavity is in the very early stages. 

 

Reasons to Have Baby Teeth Filled

Although baby teeth are only temporary, they are important. One of the reasons why they should be filled is because they help ensure that there will be sufficient space for the new tooth to come in. When a tooth is lost, teeth tend to naturally shift to fill in that space. This can cause problems for the new tooth. 

Another reason why the milk tooth with a cavity should be repaired is that losing it can cause misalignment of the teeth. This may result in needing braces later on to correct the problem. 

One more reason the tooth or teeth should be repaired is that it can affect ordinary activities. It could impair the child’s ability to speak clearly, which may mean he or she will need speech therapy later on. Front teeth are essential for proper speech. 

 

Symptoms of Baby Tooth Decay

A tooth cavity is the result of the bacteria in the mouth. Although it is a common belief that some people have “soft teeth,” it is not true. The cause is bacteria and some people have higher levels of it than others. Dentists say that as many as 80 percent of all cavities occur in just 25 percent of children. 

There may be several symptoms that your child has a cavity. They include white spots on the teeth, sensitivity to sweets, hot or cold, brown spots that may eventually turn black. Gums may also be inflamed. 

 

Preventing Toddler Cavities

Parents can help prevent cavities in children by taking a few steps and working with their children. The first thing is to reduce their sugar intake. Limit the amount of juice and sugary foods the child gets, and give the child water in a sippy cup and in a bottle when they go to sleep.

You can also brush your teeth with the child to encourage them, and apply floss when two or more teeth are side by side. Apply a little fluoride toothpaste to the toothbrush after your child reaches two years old. 

 

If your young children have a baby teeth cavity and need cavity treatment, contact Champion dental clinic for the best and affordable dental treatment

steps to reduce oral cancer risk dfw tx

What Are the Ways to Cut Your Oral Cancer Risk?

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Simple Steps Can Reduce Your Risk of Mouth Cancer

steps to reduce oral cancer risk dfw tx

Most of the cases of oral cancer can be prevented. Once you get oral cancer, it is often only discovered once it has already reached the advanced stages. This makes it all the more worthwhile to try and prevent it from occurring in the first place. The prevention of oral cancer is especially important if you already have a number of risk factors. 

 

The Statistics

The Oral Cancer Foundation states that almost 50,000 new cases of oral cancer will be discovered this year. In five years, only about half that many will still be alive. This is a higher death rate than for other types of cancer. This type of cancer was also usually only found in people who were 40 or older, but now more young people are developing it. 

The way that oral cancers are most frequently discovered is through a doctor or dentist feeling the lymph nodes in the neck and discovering that they are swollen. This means that cancer has already metastasized and is spreading. 

 

The Causes of Oral Cancer

The primary cause of many types of cancer, including oral cancer, is tobacco. This includes smoking and smokeless varieties. E-cig devices are also included, not for the tobacco, but because of the nicotine, which is a tobacco product. 

Smokeless tobacco is often sold as being healthier than cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. This may be true in the case of lung cancer, but the rise in mouth cancer cases, and other types of cancer, and periodontal disease, still declares plainly that it is not safe. There is also a possibility that it is linked to heart disease. 

Another cause of mouth cancer that is occurring more frequently is HPV. This STD in the mouth and throat is picked up by engaging in oral sex. Although HPV is not the actual cause, it does help to trigger the process that develops the mouth cancer. 

 

Oral Cancer Symptoms

It is possible that some of the oral cancer symptoms may be perceived to be something else. Some of them may even seem unrelated, but the things you want to look for include: 

  • Tongue pain
  • A sore throat
  • Difficulty chewing or swallowing
  • Pain the jaw or stiffness
  • A sore that bleeds or does not heal
  • Loose teeth or dentures that no longer fit right.

 

Mouth Cancer Prevention

Your risk of getting oral cancer can be reduced, although not totally eliminated. There is no absolute guarantee, but you can minimize it. You can work toward the prevention of oral cancer by doing several things: 

  • Quit smoking – This is the greatest risk. Those who smoke are most likely to get many types of cancer, including head and neck cancer, lung cancer, bladder cancer, and more. It also promotes periodontal disease. One in five deaths in the U.S. is caused by smoking. 
  • Reduce the alcohol – Alcohol is classified as a carcinogen. When drinking heavily, it is related to several types of cancer. Moderate drinking will reduce the risk, which is considered to be two drinks average per day for men, and one drink a day average for women. 
  • Eat healthy – Eating more fruits and vegetables, and fiber, along with less red meat, will strengthen your immune system to be able to help fight against cancer. 
  • Lose weight – Being overweight, or obese, helps promote cancer. Establish a regular exercise program, with at least 150 minutes per week, and you can reduce this risk factor. 
  • Spend less time in the sun – The sun’s rays can lead to lip cancer if they are exposed to them for long periods. Wear a hat, and reduce your time in the sun. 
  • Genetics – Some families have a gene that may make them more prone to developing oral cancer. While you cannot change the gene, you can be more watchful to try and catch it early. 
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) – There are many forms of HPV, but one form in particular – HPV16 – is known to lead to the development of cancer. Your risk of an HPV caused oral cancer can be reduced by obtaining an HPV vaccination, and by limiting having oral sex with one person who is not having sex with other people. 

 

When to See a Dentist

Regular dental checkups can often lead to the discovery of oral cancer. The thing to look for is when one or more of the mouth cancer symptoms last more than two weeks. If you see these symptoms, make an appointment with your dentist for an oral cancer screening. During the checkup, the dentist will look for other possible causes. If a problem is discovered, a biopsy may need to be taken.

In addition to working on your own program for the prevention of oral cancer, you can get oral cancer screening from Champion Dental clinic, Farmers Branch, Texas by calling our office today at (214) 747-0763.

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What Is Periodontal Disease?

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Periodontal Disease- The ‘Silent Killer’

Periodontitis gum disease farmers branch texas champion dental clinic

Gum disease is usually rather painless, but it can cause serious damage in several ways. The milder form, called gingivitis, is generally not much of a problem to your teeth and gums. Periodontal disease is an entirely different story and it needs to be brought under control quickly to avoid extensive damage to the gums, teeth, and jawbone. 

Once periodontal disease gets started, it will require a dentist to get rid of it. The CDC believes that as many as 50 percent of adults 30 or older have what is called advanced periodontal disease. This is equal to more than 64 million Americans. 

 

What are the causes and symptoms of periodontal disease?

Although there are several factors that help in the development of gum disease, both gingivitis and periodontal disease have the same root cause – bacteria. This bad bacterium is always in your mouth, but it is generally controlled in a healthy mouth. It feeds on sugar, and when it does, it produces an acid. The acid causes cavities and inflammation of the gums.

Over time, if the bad bacteria are allowed to multiply, pockets in the gums will develop and colonies of these bacteria will form inside of them. As it continues to produce acid, it begins to erode the gums, the tissues that support the teeth, and the jawbone underneath. The teeth will begin to get loose and may fall out. 

There are several causes of periodontal disease, but the primary one is simply not keeping the bacteria away from your teeth. This means that you most likely are not keeping up with brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing. 

Other risk factors usually play on the primary one, but they can act alone. The other factors include:

  • Diabetes – gum disease is hard to control with diabetes. They go hand-in-hand – you cannot control one without controlling the other, too. 
  • Medications – some medications will promote periodontitis, but those that cause dry mouth are a special problem. 
  • Hormonal changes in women – including pregnancy.
  • Some illnesses.
  • Smoking – or using any kind of tobacco.
  • Obesity
  • Insufficient nutrition
  • Genetics – about one-third of Americans have the gene, but it does not mean you will get gum disease. If you do, however, it is apt to be difficult to control. 

Several symptoms will reveal the presence of gum disease and periodontal disease. The symptoms of gingivitis include infected gums and bleeding gums. If allowed to continue, gingivitis develops more serious symptoms and becomes periodontitis, with symptoms that include:

  • Receding gums
  • Bad breath that will not go away
  • Gums pulling away from your teeth
  • Inflamed gums
  • Pus forming along the gum line
  • Painful chewing
  • Loose teeth.
  • Spaces developing between your teeth

 

Recent research has shown that having any kind of gum disease can seriously affect your overall health. Periodontal disease causes inflammation that is now believed to spread throughout the body from the gums, causing such problems as cardiovascular disease, heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and many more. 

 

Different Types of Periodontal Disease

There are three different types of periodontitis. They all need treatment. 

  • Chronic Periodontitis – It is the most common kind and it affects mostly adults. It causes slow deterioration, but it may get better or worse at times.
  • Aggressive Periodontitis – This is a rare form but it usually starts during childhood. It is usually genetic and the destruction occurs rapidly. 
  • Necrotizing Periodontal Disease – It involves the death of gum tissue, the ligaments that support the teeth, and the bone, causing severe infection. Most people that get it are immune system compromised.

 

How to Prevent Periodontal Disease

Preventing periodontal disease in most cases is rather simple. Since periodontal disease starts out as gingivitis, generally all that is needed to remove it is to brush twice a day and floss. This will take care of it in most cases. 

Other things that you can do are to quit smoking, eat healthy foods to strengthen your gums immune system, consume less sugary foods, and visit the dentist to keep an eye on gum disease if it develops. 

 

Treatments available for periodontal disease

Several treatments are available for periodontal disease. The dentist will need to tell you which periodontal treatments are needed. They include:

  • Scaling and rootplaning – the dentist will open the pockets and remove the bacteria. Rough surfaces on teeth will be smoothed out.
  • Medications – different types of medicines may be inserted into the gum pockets to destroy the bacteria. They may include antibiotics and enzyme suppressants. 
  • Flap surgery – The gums are lifted back and then cleaned out. When completed, they are sutured to reduce pocket depth.
  • Bone and tissue grafts – These grafts may be necessary to replace destroyed tissue and to restore a more normal appearance. Gum grafts may be performed with a laser. 

 

Cost of Periodontal Treatment

The cost of getting periodontal disease treatment depends on the severity of the disease and how many appointments are needed. More serious periodontal disease needs to be treated by a specialist – a periodontist. A simpler treatment such as scaling and root planing will cost between $140 and $210. The cost for more severe problems will cost around $10,000. Laser treatment will cost about $1,000 per quadrant. 

 

If you need periodontal disease treatment and live in the Farmers Branch TX area, you can get it from Champion Dental clinic. In addition to gum disease treatment, we also offer cosmetic dentistry to restore your smile. For more information about our expert dental services, or to set up an appointment, visit our dental website 

 

Why Extracting Wisdom Teeth Can Be a Good Idea

All You Want To Know About Wisdom Teeth Removal

Posted on | by mel | Leave a Comment on All You Want To Know About Wisdom Teeth Removal

Why Extracting Wisdom Teeth Can Be a Good Idea

Why Extracting Wisdom Teeth Can Be a Good Idea

In most people, wisdom teeth will become a problem. They often grow in at a steep angle, or nearly horizontal, and do not have enough room to reach their full size, causing problems with neighboring teeth. Other cases may involve a wisdom tooth that has become infected, and when that happens, wisdom tooth removal by an oral surgeon becomes necessary. 

Wisdom teeth often cause problems with other teeth, which is why getting wisdom teeth out becomes necessary. Not everyone is born with wisdom teeth, and when that happens, they never have to worry about it. 

 

What is wisdom teeth removal?

Wisdom teeth removal means taking the wisdom tooth or teeth out. Many times, not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. This is a dental surgery that is usually performed by an oral surgeon, rather than a regular dentist. 

The reason for this is because taking out wisdom teeth can be a complicated process. The wisdom tooth may be partly or even completely encased in bone, but it can still become infected. Another possible problem is that the roots may be near the nerve that runs through the jaw (lingual nerve) and surgical precision is needed from a more experienced dentist – an oral surgeon. 

 

Who should go for wisdom teeth removal procedure?

The placement of the wisdom teeth will vary with each individual. While some people will need surgery to have them all removed, others may only need one or two taken out. They are usually the last permanent teeth to grow in and they typically appear sometime between 17 and 25. 

When a wisdom tooth does not have enough room to grow, it is called an impacted wisdom tooth. This can happen when the tooth does not grow properly or in the right direction. It may grow horizontally, toward the back part of the mouth, or even be upright but not break through the bone. 

Besides being painful, an impacted wisdom tooth can cause a number of problems. It can:

  • Become infected
  • Lead to periodontal disease
  • Become decayed
  • Damage a nearby tooth
  • Develop a cyst around the tooth
  • Move other teeth out of alignment

As wisdom teeth come in, some symptoms may be experienced. These may include:

  • Pain
  • Painful to chew food
  • Face or jaw pain
  • An earache
  • Increased sensitivity to hot or cold
  • A sore throat
  • A headache. 

There are also some other symptoms that may indicate a problem with wisdom teeth. When these occur, immediate treatment is necessary. They include:

  • A fever
  • Swollen gums around the wisdom tooth
  • An abscess
  • Swelling in the jaw that makes it difficult to open the mouth. 

 

Wisdom teeth removal procedure

Before you have a wisdom tooth extraction, you will be asked to fast for at least six hours prior to the appointment. Not following this guideline could lead to nausea and vomiting when the anesthesia is applied. You will be asked about it, and, if you did not follow it, the appointment will be rescheduled. Various types of anesthesia can be given, ranging from local to general. One or more wisdom teeth can be removed at the same time. It is not uncommon to remove all four – usually under general anesthesia. 

In many cases, the wisdom tooth will be broken into pieces, and then the pieces will be removed. In some cases, the gums will need to be cut first, and then some of the jaw bone removed to get access to the tooth. 

Medication will be given to prevent infection and to minimize the pain you might otherwise feel afterward. When the patient is of a minor age, a parent will need to be present and will have to watch the young person for the remainder of the day.

 

Recovery and aftercare

After wisdom teeth surgery, the dentist will provide some gauze pads for you to place on the site of the extracted tooth. This will need to stay on the site for at least half an hour. During that time, a clot should have formed. If it has not formed in the first 30 minutes, it should be repeated. Some swelling is to be expected, and it can occur around the mouth, cheeks, and eyes. The amount depends on how extensive the surgery was. Ice packs can be placed where the swelling occurs. Medication will be given for pain after the anesthetic has worn off. Antibiotics are also likely to be prescribed.

Care needs to be taken not to dislodge the blood clot over the site because this may permit a dry socket to form. This means you should not brush your teeth, floss, or swish water in your mouth. Avoid smoking, which can delay healing. 

It is not unusual for there to be a sore throat or pain in your jaw for two or three days. It should subside after that. Call the dentist if pain continues longer than that.

 

How much does it cost for the wisdom teeth removal procedure?

Calculating the wisdom teeth removal cost depends on what needs to be done to extract them. On average, it is likely to cost $75 to $200 per tooth. If there is an impacted wisdom tooth, this will likely cost $200 to $500, but it will also depend on the type of anesthesia used. Removing all four wisdom teeth may cost around $1,600. Dental insurance will often pay between 25 to 50 percent of the cost. 

 

If you live in the Farmers Branch TX area and need wisdom tooth removal, Champion Dental clinic . We regularly perform teeth extractions and many other dental services. For more information about our services, or to set up an appointment, visit our website 

best dentalimplants farmersbranch texas championdental

What Are Dental Implants? – Procedure, Advantages and Recovery

Posted on | by mel | Leave a Comment on What Are Dental Implants? – Procedure, Advantages and Recovery

Implants Are Your Best Option for Missing Teeth

best dentalimplants farmersbranch texas championdental

The best way to replace a missing tooth or missing teeth, or even all of them, is to get dental implants. Implants have been used since 1952 to replace teeth and the process has become highly refined. Many people find that they prefer dental implants because they restore the feeling of having real teeth that even look like their own. 

 

What Is Dental Implant Surgery?

Dental implant surgery is the process of placing a tooth implant into the jawbone. There is an artificial tooth root that most often is made of titanium (some are made of zirconium) and it is placed into the same socket where the tooth was. 

Over time, the bone and gums will attach to the new root as they did with the natural tooth. Titanium is one of the few metals that enable body tissue to integrate with it and not reject it as a foreign object. 

The tooth implant process will also depend on the type of implant you will be getting. You can get:

  • Single tooth implant – Replaces a single tooth, but separate implants may be used to replace more than one tooth.
  • All on 4 dental implants – This procedure can be used to replace all your upper or lower teeth. The lower denture is placed on four implants. 
  • Mini implants – Smaller posts for narrow spaces. They serve the same purpose as regular implants.
  • Implant supported dentures – These implants can replace several missing teeth with a denture attached. 

 

What Is the Procedure Involved?

When a dental implant is to be put in place, the dental implant dentist will first ensure that there is adequate anesthetic given. Once you are ready, a cut will be made in the gums. Depending on whether you just had an extraction or have decided to get dental implants later, a drill will likely be used to ensure that there is enough of a hole to place the implant into. 

There are two kinds of dental implants. One kind (called “endosteal”) involves placing the new tooth root into the jawbone. This type is the most common. A second kind (called “subperiosteal”) places the implant on top of the jawbone but under the gums. It is used on people who do not have sufficient jawbone and who may not be interested in bone augmentation surgery. 

After the implant is in place, a metal piece called an abutment is placed on top of the artificial root. Healing needs to take place next, allowing the bone and gums to firmly anchor the implant in place. This can take anywhere between three and six months. A temporary crown may be put on the abutment to enable eating without problems. After healing is complete, a permanent crown is placed on it that matches the color of your other teeth. 

 

Who Can Get Dental Implants?

While many people can get a dental implant, there are some that are not well-suited for it. The people that it will work best for include candidates who: 

  • Already have at least one missing tooth
  • Have a full-size (adult) jawbone
  • Have healthy gums
  • Do not have health issues that affect healing
  • Have sufficient jawbone and gums
  • Do not want to or cannot wear dentures
  • Are willing to wait for the healing process.

In some cases, some surgical procedures may be necessary in advance. This may include gum or bone grafts, which will also require time for healing. For some people, it will be necessary to perform sinus modification or ridge modification. 

On some occasions, some dentists will offer to place an implant and give you a crown on the same day. This will depend on the amount of jawbone you have and other conditions. 

 

Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants have several advantages over other tooth replacement techniques. There are more than 500,000 people getting dental implants every year. Most people prefer them because:

  • They feel like natural teeth
  • They are permanent and can last for 15 years or more
  • The “roots” will never decay
  • They look natural
  • They let you eat naturally
  • They feel permanent – not loose like dentures
  • They let you talk normally. 

 

What Risks Are Involved in Dental Implants?

As is true of any surgical procedure, there are several risks. It is possible to get an infection, have nerve damage, or the gums may not heal. If an implant becomes loose while healing, it can be removed and a bridge put in its place. 

 

How Long Does It Take to Recover?

Recovery after a dental implant is placed usually between three and six months. A permanent crown or denture will be installed at that time. 

 

What Is the Cost of Dental Implants?

When you want a dental implant, it is necessary to consider the tooth implant price. They are not cheap. The price will vary according to your location, but you can expect to pay somewhere between $1,700 and $3,000 or more, which includes the cost of the crown. If additional surgery is needed, that cost must also be considered. 

 

For implant surgery, you will need the services of a expert implantologist . If you live in the Farmers Branch  TX  areas, you can get dental implants from Champion Dental Clinic. We often places dental implants, as well as conducting many other services in preparation for them. For more information about the tooth implant process, or to set up an appointment, you can call our office today at 214-747-0764