Dentist Jefferson City Blog- Part 2

Jan 15 2021

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.

Jan 15 2021

Eating Disorders And Your Oral Health… A Few Thoughts

ACCORDING TO THE AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION as many as 10 million Americans are affected by serious eating disorders such as binge eating, bulimia, and anorexia.

Most of you are probably somewhat familiar with these disorders and their dangerous health consequences. However, what you may not know are the many ways these disorders can harm your teeth and gums. At Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri, we want you to know how to stay healthy.

The Nutritional Component

Most people who are having difficulty with anorexia or bulimia are undernourished to some extent. One of the early oral signs of undernourishment is that gums and other soft tissue inside one’s mouth may bleed easily. Saliva glands may also swell and the person may experience chronic dry mouth. This condition can lead to a lot of oral health problems.

The Acidic Component

As you know, stomach acids are extremely strong. If people having difficulty with anorexia or bulimia force themselves to throw up, that stomach acid repeatedly flows over their teeth which damages the enamel and can change the shape, color, and length of their teeth. The acid also makes teeth more brittle which makes them more prone to chip and break off near the edges.

Learn More From This Short Video

Your Healthy Smile (And Overall Health) Are Worth It

Here at Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri, we deeply care about the well being of every one of you—our valued patients and friends. If you or someone you love is struggling with one or more of these disorders, get help soon.

Eating disorders are complex and arise from a variety of emotional, physical, and social issues. But there’s help out there—and as is the case with most such problems, early diagnosis and intervention can greatly improve opportunities for recovery.

A Temporary Help

While in the process of getting help to overcome these problems, if you suffer from eating disorders be sure to do all you can to minimize the damage to your teeth and gums. Continue to maintain meticulous oral health care related to brushing and flossing. And if you throw up, do NOT brush your teeth immediately after—but instead, rinse your mouth with baking soda to help neutralize the effects of the stomach acid. BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY, seek help right away.

Questions For Us?

True… We’re not psychologists. But, we DO care about your overall health as much as we do about your teeth. If we can ever help in any way, please contact us. You can ask questions by sending us a private direct message on our Facebook page.

Thanks for the trust you place in Stadium Dental Center.

Jan 15 2021

Six Important Toothbrush Care Tips

OUR TOOTHBRUSHES fend off plaque and bacteria, help keep our teeth sparkling, and leave our mouths feeling squeaky clean! But how squeaky clean is your TOOTHBRUSH–will your toothbrush care help you have a super-clean checkup?

Toothbrush DON’Ts

Don’t Store Your Toothbrush In A Closed, Dark Space
A moist, enclosed environment (like a container or cupboard) is not a good place to keep your toothbrush. Bacteria thrive in dark, wet conditions without circulation.

Don’t Share Your Toothbrush (Gross)
When you share your toothbrush you share bacteria, including bacteria that can cause dental decay and periodontal disease.

Don’t Keep Your Toothbrush Near The Toilet
Put your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible—at least six feet is a good rule of thumb. Because of “airborne particles”, always flush with the lid down. Enough said.

Toothbrush DOs

Replace Your Toothbrush
Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or when the bristles get frayed. This not only ensures that it cleans your teeth better, but it eliminates the bacteria buildup issue. If you’ve been sick or are recovering from a cold, consider changing your toothbrush.

Rinse Your Toothbrush After Using It
Thoroughly rinse your toothbrush with water after each use. Rinsing it washes out debris and bacteria left behind. You can also deep clean it by swishing it around in mouthwash.

Keep Your Toothbrush Dry
Store your toothbrush upright in the open air. This allows it to dry out and not develop mold.

Care For Your Toothbrush And It Will Care For You
Keeping your toothbrush clean will help both your overall health and your oral health. Where do you keep YOUR toothbrush? If your toothbrush care follows these tips, having a clean checkup is much more likely.

Thanks for your trust in Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri!

Jan 15 2021

Dental Fillings, Crowns, & Other Dental Work: How Long Do They Last?

HAVE YOU EVER HEARD someone say that after you cut your finger, and it heals, that the scar tissue is stronger than normal tissue? Some opinions vary, but it appears that this notion is more myth than truth. But what about your teeth and your restorative dental work? Can a filling or a crown get a cavity?

It’s Important To Keep A Watchful Eye On Fillings And Other Dental Restorations

Regardless of where (or how long ago) dental procedures were performed, it’s really important to keep an eye on them. That’s a big part of your regular checkups at Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri. Here’s why:

Decay can sneak in around dental fillings, crowns, and other restorative dental work.
Sometimes, restorative work gives plaque additional nooks and crannies to hide in.
Typically, the lifespan of dental fillings is shorter than the lifespan of your tooth.
Checking for unusual wear, cracks, and chips can save much bigger problems later including more serious problems like gum disease and tooth loss.

How Long Should A Filling Last?

The results from research and studies into this question vary greatly. One of the reasons it’s difficult to predict the lifespan of a dental filling is because the conditions surrounding that filling are different in every case. It can depend on one or several of the following factors:

The material used to create the filling. Amalgam, composite, gold?
Where the filling is situated in the mouth. Under frequent pressure? Rarely used for chewing?
How the filling is cared for. Consistent, thorough brushing and flossing?
Is the patient a “grinder”? People who grind their teeth are harder on their dental work.
Nature of the host tooth. Is the filling a small portion of the tooth? A larger portion?
Does the patient frequently eat hard, sticky foods and/or candies?

“An Ounce Of Prevention Is Worth A Pound Of Cure”

Your mom was right—an ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure. That’s why regular checkups are SO important. When dental fillings and other dental work get older and worn, they can be more prone to cracks (or even falling out). Regular appointments allow these things to be monitored and checked to catch problems before they become emergencies.

Next time you visit Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri, ask us about possible options for replacing old dental fillings, and how long you can expect yours to last. For some people, this is also a cosmetic decision because today’s tooth-colored fillings and restorations can look a lot nicer when you smile. If you have concerns or questions BEFORE your next appointment, please comment below or on our Facebook page and we will get right back to you.

We hope this information has been helpful to you.

We can’t express it often enough… Thank you for being our valued patients and friends! We appreciate you.

Jan 15 2021

Enamel Erosion From Acid Reflux Disease Damages Your Smile

LOOKING INSIDE SOMEONE’S MOUTH, members of my Jefferson City dental team can learn a lot! We can get clues about your diet, how sound you sleep, and perhaps whether or not you struggle with acid reflux.

Acid Reflux Disease Is Very Common Today
Acid reflux disease is quite common in adults over the age of 20. This is a condition where stomach acid leaks up into the esophagus creating heartburn or regurgitation. Often, the symptoms are not severe so it can go unnoticed or ignored.

Most People Don’t Realize The Potential Effects On Teeth
If you suffer from acid reflux it’s possible that there’s more damage going on than you realize. Frequent and/or severe reflux can cause those powerful acids to reach your mouth—and your teeth, which can lead to enamel erosion. Although the following symptoms can be caused by a number of conditions, acid reflux is certainly one of them. Are you experiencing…

sensitivity to certain foods?
unexplained pain or irritation in your mouth?
noticeable thinning or shortening of teeth?
darkening of your teeth?

5 Things You Can Do To Help Protect Your Smile
If you struggle with acid reflux, here are five things you can do to protect your smile from enamel erosion:

1. Treat your acid reflux disease!
Take this condition seriously. If you’re not yet being treated, see your doctor for recommendations and/or medications that help keep your acid reflux under control.

2. Make simple dietary changes.
Limit acidic foods and drinks like sodas, citrus fruits and juices, tomato products, milk, caffeine, chocolate, spicy & fried foods, fatty meats or anything acidic in nature.

3. Rinse your mouth with water after reflux episodes.
Don’t let the acids sit on your teeth. Rinsing will wash away acids and help prevent further damage.

4. Wait an hour after reflux episodes to brush your teeth.
Exposure to acid can temporarily weaken enamel. Brushing immediately after reflux episodes can be harsh on your teeth and may hurt your enamel more.

5. Keep your mouth moist and fresh.
Chew sugarless gums, lozenges, or candies. If you use antacids, look for sugar-free ones and rinse after consuming.

On The Lighter Side…
Life’s too short, right? Sometimes we have to lighten things up—even when talking about serious subjects!

Talk With Us About Your Acid Reflux
At Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri, we understand how frustrating it can be to live with chronic acid reflux disease. Give us a call if you have concerns. We always enjoy and appreciate visiting with you about your oral health and whole-body health.

As always… Thanks for being our valued patient and friend.

Wisdom Teeth: What You Should Know About Yours

What are wisdom teeth?

Why do wisdom teeth sometimes need to be removed?

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

Are there any complications associated with wisdom tooth extractions?

Eating Disorders And Your Oral Health… A Few Thoughts

The Nutritional Component

The Acidic Component

Your Healthy Smile (And Overall Health) Are Worth It

A Temporary Help

Questions For Us?

Six Important Toothbrush Care Tips

Dental Fillings, Crowns, & Other Dental Work: How Long Do They Last?

It’s Important To Keep A Watchful Eye On Fillings And Other Dental Restorations

How Long Should A Filling Last?

“An Ounce Of Prevention Is Worth A Pound Of Cure”

Enamel Erosion From Acid Reflux Disease Damages Your Smile

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

Schedule an Appointment

What are wisdom teeth?

Why do wisdom teeth sometimes need to be removed?

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

Are there any complications associated with wisdom tooth extractions?

The Nutritional Component

The Acidic Component

Your Healthy Smile (And Overall Health) Are Worth It

A Temporary Help

Questions For Us?

It’s Important To Keep A Watchful Eye On Fillings And Other Dental Restorations

How Long Should A Filling Last?

“An Ounce Of Prevention Is Worth A Pound Of Cure”

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

Connect With Our Dentist

Schedule an Appointment