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Stadium Dental Center

Wisdom Teeth: What You Should Know About Yours

We get lots of questions about wisdom teeth and what to do about them at Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri. Dr. Cardon has helped people with wisdom tooth problems for over 30 years.

If they’re properly oriented, wisdom teeth can work like the other teeth in your mouth. Problems can result if they become impacted so they can’t align normally in the mouth. Since this happens more often with wisdom teeth, they’re often removed. Learn more about your wisdom teeth and wisdom tooth extractions.

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are another name for the third set of permanent molars. Most people have three per- manent molars in each side of each jaw. First molars typically erupt around age 6, then the second set of molars erupt around age 12.

The third set of molars are the last to erupt. The term “wisdom teeth” arose because they develop after the other permanent teeth, sometime from age 17 to age 21 years.

Why do wisdom teeth sometimes need to be removed?

Some wisdom teeth become impacted as they’re unable to erupt properly. We may recommend the extraction of impacted wisdom teeth because of the problems they can cause. Common issues include infection, decay of neighboring teeth, gum disease, cysts, and tumors.

Wisdom teeth that have already erupted may also be recommended for removal. This can be due to an unusable or difficult-to-brush location, decay, or the disruption of your bite. Other reasons are the presence of gum disease or the third molar’s presence compromising the condition of adjacent teeth. In some cases, we may recommend removing wisdom teeth early to prevent such problems from arising.

How do I know if I need my wisdom teeth removed?

Someone whose wisdom teeth should be removed may feel a range of symptoms, such as pain, infection, and swelling of the face or gums. We can find out whether your wisdom teeth should be removed by taking X-rays and examining your mouth. Wisdom teeth that are not removed should still be monitored, since they can cause problems later on. Extraction is usually an outpatient procedure, whether performed under a local anesthetic, sedation, or general anesthetic.

Are there any complications associated with wisdom tooth extractions?

The most common complication after wisdom tooth extractions is dry socket. This painful delay in healing results from the absence of a blood clot in the site. Because this blood clot invites new soft tissue and bone to develop, healing takes longer.

To prevent dry socket, avoid any smoking and treat the wound site carefully after a wisdom tooth extraction. Rinsing gently with salt water can help keep your mouth clean after the procedure. Excessive rinsing or spitting is best avoided while your mouth heals.

For women, studies show that high levels of estrogen may increase a woman’s chances of having a dry socket. To decrease this risk, if possible, women should schedule extractions during the last week of their menstrual cycle.

Before any tooth extraction, be sure to tell us about any medications or supplements that you are taking. To avoid complications after the procedure, follow our written instructions regarding eating and drinking, pain management, and keeping the extraction site clean.

Everyone’s mouth is different, and determining whether your wisdom teeth should be removed is your choice. We’re glad to help you learn about yours and what options may be worth considering. If you have concerns about your wisdom teeth or wisdom tooth extraction, give us a call.

Saliva – Essential To Your Oral Health

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YOU PROBABLY DON’T OFTEN THINK ABOUT YOUR SPIT (and frankly, we’d be a little worried about you if you did). And yes, drooling babies are a nuisance. But did you know that saliva is a critical component for healthy teeth and great oral health—regardless of your age? Here at Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri, we’re concerned about BOTH your teeth and your complete oral health. We thought you may find it interesting to learn how saliva helps keep your mouth protected and healthy, even when we’re not around.

Four Reasons Your Saliva Is Awesome

Your saliva slowly and continually builds your teeth into tiny fortresses. It carries minerals like calcium and phosphate ions which reinforce your enamel.
Saliva is an important part of your immune system. It contains immunoproteins that police your mouth, fighting bacteria and coating teeth in a protective layer.
It’s a lubricant. Thanks to saliva, your mouth and tongue are flexible. Talking and eating would be seriously difficult without it.
Saliva keeps your mouth clean. It washes away food particles and rebalances the pH level in your mouth every time you eat.

Xerostomia (a.k.a. Dry Mouth) Can Be A Problem

Now that you understand how much your saliva does for you, you probably see what a problem it could be if it weren’t there. When your body isn’t producing enough saliva, it’s called dry mouth, or xerostomia (pronounced “zeer-uh-stoh-mee-uh”). It’s often caused by common medications like antihistamines or antidepressants. It can also be a side effect of dehydration or diseases like Parkinson’s and cystic fibrosis. Sometimes it’s simply a result of aging.

Here Are A Few Suggestions That May Help You

If you’re having trouble with xerostomia, ask us about it! We’ll be sure it’s not part of a bigger problem. In addition to the simple suggestions below, there may be other things our team can suggest that will help:

  • Rinse your mouth regularly with water.
  • Chew sugarless gum or suck on a sugarless candy to help stimulate saliva flow.
  • Avoid alcohol and tobacco, which can both be dry mouth contributing factors.

Remember that if you ever have questions, you can call us, or send us a direct message on our Facebook page.

Thanks for the continued trust you place in Stadium Dental Center! We appreciate you.

What Might A Toothache Have To Do With A Stuffy Nose?

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IF YOU’RE PRONE TO SINUS INFECTIONS you may not think to visit Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri. Well, maybe you should! Tooth infections, also known as dental abscesses, can cause sinus infections. And, conversely, a sinus infection can make you feel like you have a toothache! Telling these similar-feeling conditions apart takes some expertise, but a correct diagnosis makes all the difference in getting relief.

What Are Sinuses And How Can They Become Infected?
Your sinuses are a connected system of hollow chambers in your skull. Air passes through them to get warm and moist before moving to your lungs. Usually your body is able to keep your sinuses clean but sometimes bacteria can grow out of control and cause a sinus infection.

Only The Maxillary Sinuses Can Be Infected By A Tooth
While you have several sinuses, only one set is affected by tooth-related issues. The maxillary sinuses are on either side of your nose and come in close contact with the roots of your upper teeth. Because the two are so close, dental abscesses from the upper back teeth can make their way into your maxillary sinus and cause an infection.

Contact Us At The First Sign Of Pain
Generally, dental abscesses are painful. However, once in a while there’s no discomfort at all—it depends on the location of the infection. If you’re experiencing pain let us know, even if the pain goes away. We can help catch problems—and infections—before they spread.

Stay Connected To Our Blog And Stay Healthier!
The connection between your overall health and oral health is amazing. Continue reading our blog posts to stay informed about the best ways to maintain your health!

We appreciate the trust you place in Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri!

Medications, Dry Mouth, And Your Oral Health

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MEDICATIONS OFTEN HAVE frustrating side effects such as nausea or headaches. But did you know that dry mouth is also a common side effect of prescription drugs?

Saliva Helps Keep Your Mouth Healthy
There are over 400 medications that can affect your salivary glands. These medications include those used to treat depression, anxiety, pain, allergies, diarrhea, urinary incontinence, Parkinson’s disease, and many other conditions.

Our salivary glands are extremely important because they produce saliva. Saliva keeps our mouths moist and breaks down the foods we eat. It also helps keep the bacteria in our mouths under control.

Dry mouth may result in:

A higher risk of gum disease
An increase in cavities
Discomfort and difficulty eating, swallowing and talking

7 Simple Solutions To Help Fight Dry Mouth

If you or someone you know is taking medications that may be causing dry mouth, there are plenty of things you can do to help keep your mouth moist and healthy.

Drink more water! Sip on it throughout the day. Mineral, Carbonated water and Club Soda work really well to stimulate your saliva, too.
Chewing sugar-free gum helps keep your mouth moist and salivary glands active. Just make sure the gum is sugarless. Sucking on Sugarless Mints is also very effective.
Try eating frozen fruits. Frozen fruits may be soothing and satisfying to your dry and uncomfortable mouth.
Consider limiting your caffeine and alcoholic intake. It’s easier for your body to become dehydrated when consuming alcohol or caffeine.
Possibly use a humidifier while sleeping. This can help keep your skin and mouth hydrated.
Keep up with your daily oral care habits. Brushing and flossing help save your teeth from decay and other damaging problems caused by dry mouth.
Keep your regularly scheduled appointments. We’ll help you prevent serious problems that can result from dry mouth.
Use saliva replacement products, such as the Biotene group of products, are also effective.

Does Your Dry Mouth Problem Seem Severe? Let’s Talk
If you are having a lot of trouble with dry mouth, give us a call. You may also want to consult your physician about trying different medications or adjusting your dosages.

Thanks for reading our post! Please share it with others who could benefit! Our goal at Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri is to help your smile stay beautiful and healthy.

4 Surprising Foods That Can Contribute To Bad Breath

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DO YOU HAVE AN IMPORTANT MEETING OR INTERVIEW TODAY? Or perhaps a big date? Worrying about bad breath can mess with your confidence. Don’t mess with your confidence. You know the “usual” foods to avoid like garlic and onions. But there are a few others we don’t often think about… Read on!

Bad-Breath Culprits That May Surprise You

Acidic Foods
Foods containing lots of citric acid, like lemons, pickles, and grapefruit can turn your breath from bad to worse. Citric acid fuels the bacteria in your mouth, increasing sulfuric compound production.

Alcohol & Foods That Dry Your Mouth
Dry mouth is one of the MOST COMMON CAUSES of bad breath. That’s because saliva helps clean our mouths and manage the bacteria. Alcohol is a drying agent. Foods, drinks and mouthwashes that contain alcohol may add to your problem.

High Protein Foods
When protein is metabolized it produces ammonia and ketones—both of which can fuel bad breath. This doesn’t mean cutting out all the protein—just use moderation.

Sugar (Yep!)
Sugar is one of bad-breath-bacteria’s favorite foods! When you eat lots of sugary mints, candies or drinks you can increase the amount of bacteria in your mouth. If you do need a mint or gum, choose sugar-free options. Gum sweetened with xylitol has been found to actually fight plaque and bad breath.

Taking Care Of Your Oral Health Helps Take Care Of Your Breath
Remember that one of the best ways to combat bad breath is to keep up with your daily oral hygiene. Make sure you brush, floss, and schedule regular visits for cleanings and check-ups.

If you are concerned your bad breath may be a result of something more serious, give us a call! We can help.

Thanks for the trust you place in Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri.

Affordable Family Dentistry Serving Jefferson City, Cedar City & Apache Flats

Dentists in Jefferson City, Missouri: Stadium Dental Center is a 5-Star Rated Top Dental Office Serving Jefferson City, Cedar City & Apache Flats. New Specials Call Now: (573) 880-4411
Stadium Dental Center (573) 880-4411
757 W Stadium Blvd Ste B Jefferson City MO 65109
Stadium Dental Center
Contact Us
757 W Stadium Blvd Ste B
Jefferson City, MO 65109
(573) 880-4411

https://www.stadiumdentalcenter.com
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