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| Tuesday: | 7:30am - 4:30pm |
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Mall of Georgia Dentistry in Buford, GA
Mall of Georgia Dentistry is where you’ll find compassionate dental care with a gentle touch. Dr. Brian D. Vancil has a passion for helping people smile from the inside out. His focus is on the patient as a whole, not only addressing general dental health, but overall well-being. We want you to feel empowered and in control of your dental health. Our friendly team will give you all the knowledge and tools you need to ensure your smile will last the rest of your life.
Our comprehensive dental solutions address all aspects of your dental health needs.
Preventive Care
Regular Cleanings, Exams, Oral Cancer Screening, and Sealants
Restorative Care
Root Canal Therapy, Extractions, Crowns, Bridges, and Implants
Cosmetic Care
Lumineers® Veneers, Opalescence® Teeth Whitening, and Bonding
Functional Care
TMJ Treatment, Sleep Apnea, and Snoring Prevention
We take the time to listen to your concerns and teach you the steps to take toward optimal health. We want to build a lasting relationship with you and your family. Let us make Mall of Georgia Dentistry your dental home. Contact our Buford office to schedule your complimentary consultation today.
3276 Buford Drive, Suite 101
Buford GA 30519
(678) 714-6343
office@mallofgeorgiadentistry.com
mallgadentistry@aol.com
Tooth bleaches contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These substances lighten the teeth by penetrating the porous surface of the enamel and lightening the dentin underneath, oxidizing the stains away. The dentin is what actually determines the color of your teeth since enamel is fairly translucent. Dentin is easily stained by dark liquids and foods, and by tobacco use, but it is also fairly susceptible to the lightening effects of whitening solutions.
Whitening toothpastes generally do not contain bleaching agents, but rather they use abrasives to remove surface stains from teeth… along with some of your enamel! Since tooth color is primarily determined by the dentin underneath, and whitening toothpaste only works on the surface, this is not a very effective method of lightening the teeth, but it is effective at damaging them! It’s best to avoid them to keep your enamel in better shape.
Most bleaching kits , strips, trays, and even in-office procedures will only lighten the teeth to a point, usually several shades, but often that is a satisfying improvement! Veneers or bonding can be applied if a lighter shade is desired than bleaching can provide. At Mall of Georgia Dentistry, we would be happy to assist you with any of your whitening needs… just call or come by the office for some home-use strips, or make an appointment for in-office bleaching, bonding, or veneers!
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A recent study sparked some concern over dental X-rays. The study contended that a certain type of brain tumor could be connected to frequent childhood dental X-rays. It is very important to note that X-ray technology has changed a lot over the years and what you currently get at Dr. Vancil and the Mall of Georgia Dentistry office probably would not be comparable to what most of the study subjects would have gotten in their childhood.
Many of the patients in the study would have received X-rays well over 40 or 50 years ago, prior to new technology and digital X-rays. Older X-ray machines were much larger, exposing a greater area of the head, and several seconds of exposure was needed to obtain the image. Since 1982, better machines and film speeds have continued to reduce the exposure. Modern X-rays are digital, are taken in just a few tenths of a second, and are limited to very specific, much smaller areas.
Measured in millirems (mrem), the average American gets about 360 mrems of radiation exposure in a year from a variety of background sources, such as the natural radioactivity in the earth and cosmic rays from outer space. A traditional film dental X-ray is approximately 2 or 3 mrems. A full set of 18 digital X-rays which we utilize at Mall of Georgia Dentistry is 6 mrems, or 0.33 mrems per X-ray. By comparison, a cross-country flight exposes you to about 5 mrems, and a mammogram exposes you to at least 13 mrems of radiation. Dental X-rays are actually one of the lowest non-background sources of radiation exposure.
Dental X-rays are an excellent diagnostic tool with many benefits, but there is no need to use them to excess. It is 100% impossible to see in between teeth and see the supporting bone level without an X-ray. An exam without an X-ray is comparable to looking at only the top teeth and not the bottom teeth, or looking with the lights turned out. If you are worried about unnecessary exposure to radiation, talk to Dr. Vancil or your dentist about what is best for you. The frequency of taking new X-rays will depend on your specific symptoms and your individual oral health situation, and in many cases the benefits outweigh the risk!
These are some grim statistics, but here is the ugly truth: Oral Cancer is responsible for one death every single hour in North America, and somewhere in the range of 30,000-40,000 people will be diagnosed with it this year. Oral Cancer is diagnosed visually, and has been for the past 40 years, but most visually-diagnosed lesions are already at stage III or beyond, when the 5-year diagnosis rate is only about 50%. If detected early, the expected survival rate is 92%!
Main contributors to developing Oral Cancer are: Smoking Tobacco (any form… cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco), Smokeless Tobacco (“snuff”, “dip”), and HPV- human papillomavirus. That’s the same virus implicated in causing Cervical Cancer, but more women get Oral Cancer than Cervical Cancer, and Oral Cancer has THREE TIMES the incidence and DOUBLE the death rate. The HPV connection sheds light on the 60% increase in Oral Cancer in young patients, 18-39 years old, over the past 5 years. Heavy drinking and excessive sun exposure are also risk factors, and of course, those with a family history of cancer or who are obese are at an increased risk for cancer in general.
Signs and Symptoms – What to Look For:
- Swelling, lumps, crusty rough patches or erosion anywhere in the mouth.
- Velvety white or red (or white and red) patches in the mouth.
- Unexplained numbness/tingling or tenderness and pain in and around the mouth or face and neck.
- Persistent sores in the mouth that do not heal.Unexplained bleeding.
- Difficulty swallowing or a feeling that something is caught in the throat.
- Problems chewing, speaking, moving the jaw or tongue.Hoarseness, chronic sore throat, voice changes.
- Changes in bite/the way your teeth fit together, or the way dentures fit or bite together.
- Ear pain.Dramatic, unexplained weight loss.
Prevention – What to Do:
- Don’t smoke or use smokeless tobacco! If you smoke, get serious about quitting.
- Don’t drink or drink in moderation!
- Eat an overall nutritious diet and maintain an active, healthy lifestyle!
- Avoid too much sun exposure!
- Take precautions to avoid contracting HPV (including: monogamy, abstinence, protected sex, and vaccination) See this slideshow article for details.
You should also examine your own mouth once a month, pulling it open to inspect inner cheeks, tongue, roof… all surfaces, in good lighting, and see your dentist regularly. An oral cancer exam is recommended once every three years for those age 20 to 39 , and every year after that. If cancer is detected, catching it early and having it treated immediately will make a big difference!
At Mall of Georgia Dentistry, we are still offering patients a discounted VizilLte exam through the end of April, priced at $30, it’s a 40% discount. For NEW patients, we are offering complimentary ViziLite screening with your New Patient Exam and X-rays. ViziLite makes small or subtle abnormalities show up and become more visible with special lighting.
We encourage you to pursue good health through lifestyle, monitoring, and early detection… though of course we hope there is nothing to detect!
This past weekend was the 100th Thomas P. Hinman Dental Meeting in Atlanta, GA, a comprehensive convention hosting numerous classes, educational presentations, hands-on courses, and product displays with the purpose of helping dental professionals learn, network, and improve their practice for the benefit of all those whose lives are touched by their career. Every year, many of the most renown experts in the field of dentistry are there. In addition to the educational experiences, the convention is a wonderful social opportunity.
Many of the classes and courses deal strictly with the dental business and the science of the medicine involved, but many of them are more broadly focused, such as the course titled “I’m Spread So Thin You Can See Through Me”. This course is geared toward helping busy professionals manage and organize all the demands of work and life beyond to achieve a sense of balance. And other courses, such as those on social media maintenance, emphasize the importance of the relationships we have others, which extend far beyond the scope of just health procedures or business transactions to embrace all the other ways to serve and enjoy one other. Since human connections are at the heart of what is meaningful in our lives, it’s wonderful to learn more about that at a dental conference. For example, the following was shared there:
The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University reports ten benefits to children of frequent family dinners together:
- 70% Lower risk of substance abuse
- Half as likely to try cigarettes
- Half as likely to be a daily cigarette smoker
- Half as likely to try marijuana
- One third less likely to try alcohol
- Half as likely to get drunk monthly
- Likelier to get better grades in school
- Less likely to have friends who drink alcohol and use marijuana
- Likelier to have parents to who take responsibility for teen drug use
- 40% more likely to say future drugs use will never happen
The main reason for all these positives? Dinnertime is often the only time during the day for uninterrupted communication, and communication is the lifeblood of relationships.
How has your family made dinnertime a priority?
So we have been reading “How Full Is Your Bucket” by Tom Rath and Donald O. Clifton as a team. And you’re asking “what does that have to do with teeth?” Well, really nothing. What does it have to do with people? Well…EVERYTHING!
People have 20,000 interactions in any given day. Most of them are negative. The old adage is garbage in = garbage 0ut. That can also be translated into Good Stuff In = Good Stuff Out.
All that to say I had a great interaction with a patient the other day, and it made us feel great. Everyone likes a little recognition. I can’t say we’re always THE BEST. You know how some people feel like “they’re all that and a box of chocolates.” Well, I strive to be that person, that dentist, that office for everyone. I know we fall short, but the other day was different. A patient was kind enough to let me know that Mall of Georgia Dentsitry really made him feel special. We engaged him on a personal level, and that mattered to him. And just a simple note saying it was nice to meet you -handwritten-meant a lot.
At our office, our patients are not just a number. You are a person with a family and friends and your own needs. We strive to engage each person individually, and figure out what your desires are so we can look for the most efficient way to help you attain your desires. While we aren’t perfect, we are a group of people who are constantly trying to improve ourselves, so that we have enough in our buckets to fill yours.
It was 9:30 at night, give or take a few minutes, and I was sitting there reading to my 2 year old. Daniel loves to read, or at least look at the pictures. My phone rang, and it was a number I didn’t recognize. I typically wouldn’t answer it, but for some reason I did. To my surprise it was someone I knew. She mentioned she was at the ball field and one of the church league softball players had just had some teeth knocked out, did I have any recommendations. Her demeanor was calm, but obviously the situation was not. My wife Allison could tell by the look on my face… the evening was not coming to an end just yet. With the boys in their pajamas, we headed off to the office.
While it wasn’t funny then, hindsight is a little more amusing. Unfortunately our patient found out first hand that a softball isn’t really that soft. Despite being down 17 to 4, with three minutes left to play, and really no hopes of bragging rights for that night, play continued until the bloody end, literally. 5 teeth were involved in that last hit. 2 front teeth, one knocked backwards, one broken at the gum line, and 3 bottom teeth were fractured in the jaw. After 1.5 hours, we had the teeth back in proper position and wired together to allow the jaw to heal.
The moral of the story is, WEAR A MOUTHGUARD. A mouthguard should be form fitted, not just covering the biting surface of the teeth, but extending deep below the lip to protect the roots of the teeth. I realize people are concerned about a chipped tooth from the way they look, but that can be fixed. A fractured root leads to a hopeless and extracted tooth. Much like you never expect to be in a car accident, most people never expect to have a sports injury. The slogan is “play hard”, perhaps we should add “play safe”.
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What is plaque?
Plaque is a soft biofilm made up of as many as 400 different types of bacteria, many of which can lead to gum diseases or cavities. IT IS THE ROOT OF ALL PROBLEMS IN THE MOUTH!!
Plaque forms at the gumline first. So make sure you tilt the toothbrush towards the gums at a 45-degree angle for effective removal. Please remember to brush gently.
If plaque is not removed, it leads to an infection in the gums. Bleeding, swelling, redness, and sensitivity are all signs of an infection and can occur at any stage of gum disease.
The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis where only the gums are affected.The next stage is slight periodontitis where actual jaw bone is lost. Yes, jaw bone that surrounds the teeth and holds them in place! You may even notice some recession of the gums exposing some of the yellow root.The next stage is moderate periodontitis. It is worsening of the previous stage!The final stage is advanced periodontitis. Again, worsening of the previous stage. Possible and likely tooth mobility. Treatment at this point is usually extraction of affected teeth.
NOTE: Effective daily plaque removal is not just important to your teeth and gums. It is important to your overall health. Oral plaque has been linked to diabetes, preterm low-birth weight babies, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory disease.
SO…by effectively removing plaque on a daily basis you prevent gum disease, stop gum disease, and maintain a healthy state for your overall health.
For as long as I can remember, at least ever since the day my sister gave me one, I have been singing the praises of the Sonicare toothbrush. I never realized just how much I relied on it for my overall oral care until now.
I have needed a head replacement for my Sonicare for the last week but I can’t seem to find the time to make a special trip to the store just for that. So, for the last week I have been using old faithful…the manual toothbrush. While I have a brand new brush that any other person would think works “just fine”, I can’t help but feel as though I havent brushed my teeth at all. The first time I ever used the Sonicare I could tell how remarkably clean it made my mouth feel, then several hours later, how little plaque had returned. The only thing I’m noticing now are way larger amounts of plaque on all of my teeth, as soon as 20 minutes after I brushed, and it seems to be taking me a lot longer at night to remove all the plaque when I’m flossing.
By now we all know how these ultrasonic brushes work…The little bristles vibrate, move up and down and around and around so so many times per minute but I personally didn’t realize just how much it has effected the overall (good) health of my own mouth. Right now I feel like I could take an ice pic and chip the plaque off of my teeth. Sure maybe a little of it is in my mind but I know one thing, there’s no way my hand can move as fast or brush my teeth as efficiently as my Sonicare and my teeth have never felt as dirty as they do now! Old faithful is just fine for in between brushes but never again will I rely on her for an entire week or longer. I’ll make it a point to get out tonight and get that replacement head, perhaps even an extra, just so that I am never in this predicament again.
So sometimes I just have to sit back and think: hummm. I don’t do it very often, but sometimes I get sucked in. I was listening to TALK RADIO this a.m., trying to figure out how traffic was moving on Interstate 85 South. Of course, after 10 minutes of commercials and weather, the information about traffic was NOT helpful.
As I was listening to the radio, there was a two-minute news brief headlining concussions in sports. What a great topic I thought. After all, this is football season. GO DAWGS! I heard them speak about helmets. Evidently the foam in the helmets is inadequate to significantly reduce the risk of a concussion, according to their expert. There is a NEW “Air XP” helmet that can absorb 23-28% more impact. I must admit, that is pretty impressive.
What they didn’t mention, so I emailed the assistant producer of the radio show, was how a mouth appliance (if properly fitted) can not only prevent or lessen the impact of cuts and other trauma to the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue and mouth, but perhaps less obvious is the role a mouth guard can play in preventing concussions. Reports of concussive injuries – or at least the emphasis on them – have recently increased largely due to the publicity generated by the media discussions of professional football players and the “post-concussion syndrome” (permanent brain damage resulting from multiple concussions). Some estimates say that up to 40% of all retired NFL players may suffer from the syndrome to some extent
I am excited that the NCAA mandated the use of mouthguards for five amateur sports: boxing, football, ice hockey, men’s lacrosse and women’s field hockey. I’m curious why other sports aren’t mandated though.
But which mouth guard is the right mouth guard? Generally speaking, there are two categories of sports mouth guards: over-the-counter and custom-made. There are several varieties in each category but the biggest difference is in fit, performance, comfort and cost. As might be expected, the over-the-counter type is the least expensive and the quickest to obtain. But fit is questionable and performance is limited. Custom-made mouth guards obtained from a dentist are usually more comfortable and offer the best protection because the fit is “tailor-made”. Dental mouth guards are more expensive than OTC mouth guards – but are less expensive than medical or dental treatment made necessary by a sports injury.
The best mouth guard is the one that is worn consistently by the athlete, fits properly (even with orthodontic appliances), and does not interfere with breathing or speaking or athletic performance. Mouth guards dangling from a helmet strap or stored in a locker or kept in a gym bag have not proven to be valuable in reducing injuries.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are an effective alternative to traditional braces that use a system of clear, removable trays to straighten teeth. Each aligner is custom-made to fit over your teeth and designed to gradually move teeth into their proper position. Using clear aligners for orthodontic treatment is not for everyone. The best way to find out if clear aligners are the right option for you is to schedule a consultation with your orthodontist.
How do clear aligners work?
Clear aligners are created as an alternative to traditional braces, and are designed to help guide teeth into their proper position. Just like braces, clear aligners use gradual force to control tooth movement, but without any metal wires or brackets. The aligners are made with a strong plastic material, and are fabricated to fit your mouth. Each aligner is created a little different, so that each time you switch aligners, your teeth move a little more.
Aligners are worn for at least 20 hours each day, and for two weeks, before putting in a new aligner. The length of your treatment depends on the severity of your case, and can take anywhere between six months to two years.
Advantages of orthodontic treatment with clear aligners:
Clear aligners are a great alternative for patients who want a straighter smile but do not want to wear metal braces, or for patients who have had treatment in the past and want to make minor corrections to their smile. There are several advantages to orthodontic treatment with clear aligners.
- Clear aligners are easier to keep clean, making it easier to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
- Clear aligners are comfortable and less likely to irritate your gums and cheeks.
- Clear aligners prevent wear on the teeth from tooth grinding.
- Clear aligners are removable so it's easier for you to brush and floss after meals.
If you're interested in orthodontic treatment with clear aligners, schedule an appointment and talk to your orthodontist about whether or not this is the right treatment option for you. Scheduling a consultation is your first step toward achieving the beautiful you've always wanted.
Lumineers®
Are your teeth chipped or stained? Would you like to improve your smile permanently, without any painful processes? We are pleased to offer Lumineers as an alternative to traditional porcelain veneers. Veneers provide a way to conceal stains, chips, discoloration, and misaligned teeth by covering your actual teeth with a permanent layer of tooth-colored material.
Because Lumineers are as thin as a contact lens, their application requires little to no tooth reduction, and no anesthetic is necessary. Lumineers are bonded to your teeth and set in place with a curing light. Because the process is less invasive than with traditional veneers, Lumineers patients find that they immediately enjoy their new smiles without any post-procedure discomfort or sensitivity.
Cerinate®, the company that makes Lumineers, offers a five-year warranty on its veneers, and their clinical trials show that Lumineers can last up to 20 years.
Take control of your smile – ask us whether Lumineers is a good choice for you.
Sleep Apnea
Are you drowsy during the day with no explanation? Do you snore loudly or wake up breathless in the middle of the night? If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, you may be one of more than 12 million Americans who are affected by sleep apnea.
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition in which your breathing stops periodically during sleep, as many as 20-30 times per hour. Each time you stop breathing in your sleep, the resulting lack of oxygen alerts your brain, which temporarily wakes you up to restart proper breathing. Since the time spent awake is so brief, most people with sleep apnea don't remember it, and many feel like they are getting a good night's sleep, when in fact, they are not. The constant wake-sleep, wake-sleep cycle prevents those with sleep apnea from achieving deep sleep, resulting in a constant drowsy feeling during the day.
What are the signs of sleep apnea?
The following symptoms can indicate the presence of sleep apnea. If you notice one or more of these, contact our practice.
Insomnia or difficulty sleepingLoud snoring at nightWaking up at night short of breathSnorting or choking sounds during the night (indicating a restart of breathing)Headaches upon waking in the morningFalling asleep unintentionally during the dayExtreme drowsiness throughout the day
Are there different types of sleep apnea?
There are three categories of sleep apnea. The most common is called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and occurs due to a physical blockage, usually the collapsing of the soft tissue in the back of the throat. Less common is central sleep apnea (CSA), in which breathing stops because the muscles involved don't receive the proper signal from the brain. And some people suffer from "mixed" or "complex" sleep apnea, which is a combination of obstructive and central.
What are risk factors for sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea is more common in males than females, and more common in older adults (40+) than younger adults and children. However, anyone — regardless of gender or age — can suffer from sleep apnea. Other risk factors include obesity, smoking, drinking, use of sedatives or tranquilizers, and family history. Central sleep apnea strikes most often in people with heart disorders, neuromuscular disorders, strokes, or brain tumors. It is also more common in males.
Is sleep apnea dangerous?
Sleep apnea is considered a serious medical problem and if left untreated can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart failure and stroke. The ongoing state of fatigue caused by sleep apnea can lead to problems at work or school, as well as danger when driving or operating heavy machinery. Sleep apnea can also cause complications with medication or surgery; sedation by anesthesia can be risky, as can lying flat in bed after an operation. If you know or suspect you suffer from sleep apnea, let your family doctor know before taking prescribed medication or having surgery.
How is sleep apnea treated?
Treatments for sleep apnea depend on the severity of each individual case, and the type of apnea. Basic treatment can be behavioral — for instance, patients are instructed to lose weight, stop smoking, or sleep on their sides instead of on their backs. Beyond that, oral devices can be used to position the mouth in such a way that prevents throat blockage. In more severe cases, surgery may be the best option.
What should I do if I suspect that someone in my family suffers from sleep apnea?
Contact our practice, and we can refer you to a sleep apnea specialist. The specialist may recommend a "sleep study" to diagnose the precise extent of the problem, and can prescribe appropriate treatment. Depending on the patient's situation, treatment may involve an oral device that we can custom-create for you.
Snoring Prevention
While snoring is a common problem for many people, it can also be a major sign of other complications that can affect your health. It is estimated that more than 80 million people in North America snore while sleeping, which not only affects the quality of sleep that the snoring person gets, but also their loved ones, such as spouses, children, and other family members. Luckily, there is a way to treat chronic snoring.
What causes snoring?
Snoring can be the result of several factors. Typically, snoring is caused by the relaxing of the muscles and soft tissues in the throat and mouth, making the airway passage smaller. The decrease in space through the airway makes it harder for each breath to get through, and when it does get through the airway passage, it moves over the soft tissues in the mouth and throat causing a vibration which results in the snoring sound. Other causes of snoring may include:
- Excess body weight
- Alcohol consumption
- Certain sleep aides or sedatives
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
What is a mandibular advancement device?
If you snore at night, then a mandibular advancement device (MAD) may represent a solution and a better night’s sleep! The MAD is a specially designed dental device to be worn at night as it gently helps keep the lower jaw, or mandible, in a forward position, increasing the space between the airway passage, helping you breathe better and get a full, quiet night’s sleep.
MADs are usually small plastic devices worn in the mouth during sleep to prevent the soft throat tissues from collapsing and obstructing the airway. They do this by bringing your lower jaw forward and/or by lifting your soft palate. Some devices also stop the tongue from falling back over your windpipe. Your dentist will fit these special appliances to meet your individual condition.
Is a MAD comfortable?
The answer is simple — YES! A mandibular advancement device is made to be comfortable, so that you can sleep without even noticing you’re wearing it. It does not prevent you from breathing with your mouth open and will even eliminate snoring for patients with sinus congestion or allergies. You may experience some slight stiffness of the jaw for the first few mornings after wearing the device, however this feeling is only temporary, and will go away after waking up and removing the device.
To learn more about a mandibular advancement device, contact our practice and schedule an appointment and consultation. A better night’s sleep starts here!
Teeth Whitening
There are many products and techniques available for patients who want to achieve a whiter smile, and with so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the method that is right for you. The best way to begin any teeth whitening regimen is to schedule an appointment, and talk to your doctor about the differences between in-office professional whitening and at-home whitening.
In-office teeth whitening
The first professional option is commonly referred to as “in-office” whitening. This procedure is performed in a dental office. An in-office whitening treatment may include the use of a whitening lamp or laser to enhance the effectiveness of the whitening gel by accelerating the peroxide.
During an office visit, your dental professional will apply the whitening gel and, depending on the system being used, will shine a light source directly onto the teeth. The entire office visit generally takes about 90 minutes with immediate results.
At-home teeth whitening
Tray bleaching
Tray bleaching is a type of professional whitening that uses custom-made trays and whitening gel only available through your dentist. The whitening gel is placed in custom-fitted trays that fit perfectly over your teeth. As the peroxide in the gel breaks down, hydroxyradicals help whiten stained teeth. Unlike strips, this process whitens all your natural teeth and may contain ingredients intended to provide maximum comfort. At-home professional tray whitening generally takes 10-14 days, although you may notice results in as little as three to five days.
Paint-on teeth whiteners
There are many over-the-counter teeth whitening options, and one type of readily accessible whitening product is commonly referred to as “paint-on” teeth whiteners. Paint-on whiteners can be purchased over-the-counter, and are generally less expensive and less effective than whitening strips or professional options. Paint-on teeth whiteners consist of a gel that is applied to the tooth using a small brush. Paint-on whitening gel hardens into a film that coats the treated tooth, and dissolves in the mouth. As with any teeth whitening regimen, it is wise to consult with a dental professional before treating discolored teeth.
Teeth whitening strips
Teeth whitening strips are thin, flexible plastic (polyethylene) strips with a thin film of hydrogen peroxide bleaching on one side. Whitening strip kits come with two types of strips: strips for the upper teeth and strips for the lower teeth. The bleaching agent is applied by placing the strips across your teeth and gently pressing the strips into place to ensure contact with all your teeth. Teeth whitening strips are typically worn for 30 minutes a day, twice a day. The duration of treatment will vary.
Teeth whitening toothpaste and mouthwash
The least expensive options are whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes. Designed to have “whitening” capabilities, toothpastes and mouthwashes work to remove surface stains using mild abrasives. However, unlike bleaching materials used in professional whitening procedures, these products do not lighten the actual color shade of the tooth. Whitening toothpastes affect surface stains and will mildly lighten your teeth.
If you would like to learn more about teeth whitening, please contact our practice to schedule an appointment, or visit www.teethwhitening.com for additional information about teeth whitening.
Under Armour® Mouthguards
Under Armour® Performance Mouthwear™
Athletes — protect your smiles for many years, and games, to come! Our practice is pleased to offer our patients the most advanced line of custom mouthguards and mouthpieces with new Under Armour Performance Mouthwear.
Powered by premium Armourbite™ technology, Under Armour Mouthwear is designed to improve your overall health and prevent future dental issues, as well as improve your strength, endurance, and reaction time while reducing stress on your face and jaw.
How will my Under Armour Performance Mouthpiece protect my smile?
Under Armour Mouthpieces offer superior protection and comfort, and are made from the highest quality materials. Custom fit to the shape of your smile, Under Armour Mouthpieces relieve pressure on the Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and help protect your mouth and jaw from impact.
Aren’t mouthguards only helpful for athletes playing a contact sport?
The answer is NO — athletes of any sport should use a mouthguard to protect their teeth, mouth, and jaw from injury. Your dentist may offer:
- Under Armour Performance Mouthpiece for non-contact sports, including baseball, golf, tennis, cycling, and running.
- Under Armour Performance Mouthguard for full-contact sports, including football, hockey, lacrosse, martial arts, and wrestling.
- Under Armour Performance Alloy Mouthpiece for ultra-durable protection in non-contact sports.
Your dentist is an authorized provider of Under Armour Performance Mouthpieces, and is pleased to offer patients the same mouthguards and mouthpieces used by hundreds of professional, Olympic, and collegiate athletes. If you’re an athlete, give us a call and schedule an appointment for a quick, 20-minute, custom mouthguard fitting.
Oral Cancer Screening
Dedicated to Complete Oral Health
Our office is not only dedicated to your smile, we’re also dedicated to your overall wellness. We take a holistic approach to your dental care, which includes an oral cancer screening as a part of your regular exam. Like any kind of cancer, oral cancer can be life threatening if not diagnosed and treated early. You are the most important factor in the early diagnosis of oral cancer through routine screenings through our office.
Signs of Trouble
We have the skills and tools to ensure that early signs and symptoms of oral cancer and pre-cancerous conditions are identified. While these symptoms may be caused by other, less serious problems, it is very important to visit our office to rule out the possibility of oral cancer. The most common symptoms of oral cancer include:
- Red or white spots or sores anywhere in the oral cavity
- A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
- A lump, thickening or rough spot
- Pain, tenderness or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue
Screening
Our team is trained in a simple, quick screening which involves an examination of your oral cavity as a whole and not just your teeth to detect cancerous and pre-cancerous conditions. Besides a visual examination of your mouth, we will also feel the tissue of your mouth and throat to detect any abnormalities. If we find an area of concern, we may perform a simple test, such as a brush test, which collects cells from a suspicious lesion in the mouth to be sent to a laboratory for analysis. If this test comes back atypical or positive, we may recommend a biopsy.
Prevention
Aside from receiving an oral cancer screening during your checkup at our office, there are many things you can do to help prevent oral cancer.
- The best way to prevent oral cancer is to avoid all tobacco products and only drink alcohol in moderation.
- Maintain a healthy, balanced diet.
- Limit your exposure to the sun and always wear UV-A/B-blocking sun protective lotions on your skin as well as your lips.
- During your next dental appointment, ask your dentist to perform an oral exam. Early detection of oral cancer can improve the chance of successful treatment.
Sedation Dentistry
We understand that going to the dentist may be stressful for some of our patients. If you’re nervous about your dental visit, let us know! We want you to be as comfortable as possible during your dental treatment and are pleased to offer our patients the option of comfortable, safe, and effective sedation dentistry. Patients who benefit from sedation dentistry have:
- A fear or anxiety of being at the dentist
- A hard time sitting still for long periods of time
- Apprehension about certain dental procedures
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry allows your doctor to provide a variety of dental treatments safely and comfortably for patients who experience anxiety when visiting the dentist. There are several benefits of sedation dentistry, including:
- Less fear or anxiety during treatment
- More comfort during dental procedures
- A more relaxing dental experience
Patients who have undergone a procedure using sedation dentistry will tell you it’s a simple, relaxing way to experience dentistry.
Oral Sedation
Anxiolysis is a light form of sedation dentistry and is often used for patients with mild anxiety or those with longer procedures or more complex situations. Usually administered orally, with mild sedation, you remain awake or very sleepy throughout the entire procedure and are able to breathe on your own, but you will feel a great sense of relaxation. Patients typically recover from anxiolysis sedation within a few hours after the procedure is complete.
Inhaled Sedation
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is the most frequently used method for easing mild to moderate anxiety. Administered through a small mask that fits over your nose, it is an effective way to calm anxiety, raises your pain threshold, and may even make time seem like it’s passing quicker than usual. At the end of your appointment, you’ll resume breathing regular oxygen, and all the effects of nitrous oxide will disappear, so you can resume your normal activities immediately.
Understanding the range of choices that are available to relieve anxiety and discomfort can be very useful. Please contact our practice to schedule a consultation, learn more about sedation dentistry, and find out which sedation dentistry method is right for you.
Opalescence
Many factors, including dietary habits (drinking coffee, tea, soda, and red wine) and certain medications, affect the whiteness of your smile. Tooth whitening is an affordable and effective way to combat common causes of tooth discoloration while boosting your self-confidence and improving your appearance.
Opalescence® offers a wide range of tooth-whitening products designed to brighten your smile. With custom designed take home, on-the-go, and in-office options, Opalescence Tooth Whitening Systems accommodate all lifestyles and budgets.
Prescription-strength Opalescence Tooth Whitening Systems are stronger and more effective than over-the-counter teeth-whitening products, and are only available through your dentist.
Get more confidence in your smile — with the Opalescence Tooth Whitening System
Safe
Opalescence Take Home Whitening Gels are only available through your dentist. While using the Opalescence Tooth Whitening System, your dentist will supervise your treatment from initial consultation through completion. The special whitening gel will not affect your gums, and in many cases can help improve your oral health by strengthening tooth enamel, decreasing sensitivity, and offering increased cavity prevention.
Effective
Powerful, prescription-strength Opalescence Take Home Whitening Gels are available in varying strengths depending on your dental needs. Opalescence Take Home Whitening Gels can provide results after just one night, although results may vary and can take up to a week before you experience noticeable changes.
Customized
Opalescence Take Home Whitening Gels are delivered through customized bleaching trays designed to fit your unique smile. Your dentist will create your personal trays from an alginate impression of your mouth; this customization is part of what makes Opalescence Take Home Whitening Gels so effective.
Further customize your Opalescence Take Home Whitening Gel experience by choosing from the five different treatment options: Opalescence, Opalescence® Tréswhite Supreme™, Opalescence® BOOST, and Opalescence after care toothpastes, toothbrushes, OpalPix®. Talk with your dentist about what options are available to you.
Please contact our practice to schedule a consultation, or visit www.opalescence.com to learn more about the Opalescence Tooth Whitening System.
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Dental Library
Patient Education At Your Fingertips
It is our great pleasure to provide you with the Dear Doctor – Dentistry & Oral Health Digital Library. Written exclusively by the foremost dental educators and clinicians in the field of dentistry, this library provides you with the latest developments and advancements on all aspects of dentistry to help you make the best decisions for your dental health. Such decisions can change not only your smile but your life for the better. If you have any questions after exploring the library, please feel free to ask our team.
You can get started by either searching for a dental term or procedure in the search box or you can view some popular articles below. Once the articles open, please feel free to print, email and share them with your friends and family.