Bruxism Quick Facts

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Has anyone ever mentioned to you that they can hear you grinding your teeth? Perhaps you wake up in the morning with some discomfort in your jaw. You may be suffering from a treatable disorder called bruxism, or teeth grinding. While you may think to yourself, “A lot of people grind their teeth, I’m sure it isn’t serious” – think again. What seems like a simple inconvenience can cause you a great deal of daily discomfort as well as long-term damage. Wondering if bruxism effects you and whether our non-invasive treatment can improve your quality of life? Consider the following facts:

Quick Facts About Bruxism

  • This disorder is characterized by grinding or clenching your teeth.
  • Many people primarily grind their teeth in their sleep, so patients often have a hard time pinpointing the cause of their discomfort.
  • Friends or significant others may point out that they have recognized your grinding, though you are unaware that you are performing this habit.
  • You may suffer from tooth damage as a result of the tremendous pressure placed on your teeth. This can include flattened, worn-down tooth surfaces and tooth sensitivity. You may also experience fractures or breakages.
  • Bruxism often places pressure on your TMJs (temporomandibular joints – or jaw joints) which may lead to TMJ disorder and chronic jaw discomfort.
  • You may suffer from ear aches.
  • Your teeth may become loose.
  • We may treat bruxism with preventive measures to address symptoms, while preventing the long-term damage associated with this disorder.
  • Treatment is non-invasive and comfortable. You will wear an oral appliance, much like a soft mouth guard, while you sleep at night. It will prevent your top and bottom teeth from touching, while cushioning your bite – this will prevent grinding and clenching.

ABOUT YOUR MANSFIELD DENTISTS:

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris of Mansfield Dental Associates rely upon their years of experience, training, and cutting-edge technology to offer patients expert dental care at each and every visit. They listen to each patient’s concerns and offer gentle, informative guidance about future treatments. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call (817) 473-6227. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: Bruxism, Preventive Dentistry

Oral Cancer and Screenings: Quick Facts

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You probably don’t like thinking about oral cancer, which is exactly why we encourage you to visit us regularly for visual oral cancer tests. When it comes to this progressive disease, we have the capacity to recognize early changes in the lining of your mouth often long before you recognize a change. By allowing us to monitor your health over time, particularly once every six months, you make early detection possible. The sooner we see you and diagnose a concern, the greater your chances of enjoying a full, efficient recovery. Wondering what to expect and why screenings are so significant? Look over the following facts:

Facts About Oral Cancer and Visual Tests

  • We will screen you for oral cancer every time you visit us for a dental checkup, thoroughly examining your oral cavity for signs of change.
  • This type of cancer is serious and may become fatal. However, when caught in its earliest stages, it is typically quite treatable. Early treatment yields a greatly improved treatment success rate.
  • We encourage you to schedule an appointment with us immediately if you notice any of the common signs of oral cancer, which may include: significant weight loss, your teeth seem to shift in their alignment, ear pain or aching, a sore throat that doesn’t seem to go away, voice changes, or other abnormalities that you cannot explain.
  • Risk of disease increases in patients over the age of 40.
  • Risk of disease also tends to become greater as a result of tobacco use, sun exposure, and a family history of oral cancer.
  • Rest assured, we offer compassionate care and will answer all of your questions and concerns during your visit.

ABOUT YOUR MANSFIELD DENTISTS:

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris of Mansfield Dental Associates rely upon their years of experience, training, and cutting-edge technology to offer patients expert dental care at each and every visit. They listen to each patient’s concerns and offer gentle, informative guidance about future treatments. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call (817) 473-6227. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: Oral Cancer, Preventive Dentistry

Teeth Whitening FAQs

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Are you ready to achieve a beautiful white smile while saying goodbye to discoloration, staining, or a darkened appearance? Fortunately, teeth whitening can dramatically whiten your smile, so you feel confident about the way your smile looks. We realize you may not be so sure, however, about whether this treatment is for you. You may even have some questions that you would like answered before moving forward with this cosmetic solution. While we always invite you to ask questions during your visits, we hope you will look over the following FAQs and answers in the meantime to determine whether whitening may offer you the improvement you desire for your smile.

FAQs About Teeth Whitening

Question: Can I whiten my teeth at home?

Answer: Yes. And while you may be swayed by the over-the-counter (OTC) options you see at your local drugstore, we encourage you to choose our professional teeth whitening systems instead. Our formulas are created to safely whiten your teeth, protecting against damage and sensitivity unlike OTC products. You will wear custom-fitted trays that you will fill with bleaching gel once daily over the course of two weeks. The result will be a dramatically lightened smile up to seven shades whiter.

Question: Do I have to wait two weeks for a brighter smile?

Answer: No, for patients in a rush who can spare approximately one hour to spend in our chair, we offer in-office whitening. The Zoom! Whitening system we use requires the use of a bleaching gel and a special light that activates the lightening process. Within this single visit you will achieve a smile up to ten shades whiter than when you walked in.

Question: Who makes a good candidate for teeth whitening?

Answer: First, you will need to have a desire for a whiter smile. Whether you suffer from allover discoloration, yellowing, or concentrated stains, our systems will address your needs. To qualify for treatment, you will need to be seeking cosmetic treatment for your natural teeth – whitening will not work on prosthetics like crowns. In addition, for severe staining, we may suggest an alternative solution like porcelain veneers.

ABOUT YOUR MANSFIELD DENTISTS:

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris of Mansfield Dental Associates rely upon their years of experience, training, and cutting-edge technology to offer patients expert dental care at each and every visit. They listen to each patient’s concerns and offer gentle, informative guidance about future treatments. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call (817) 473-6227. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry, Teeth whitening

Why Your Child Needs Dental Sealants

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If you have been practicing brushing and flossing with your child at home and scheduling preventive dental visits, you are doing a wonderful job. However, we often find that parents wonder if there’s anything else they can be doing to protect the oral health of their children. In this case, our top answer usually includes a suggestion to choose dental sealants to protect hard-to-reach teeth from plaque and tooth decay. Wondering what to expect from this treatment and why your child needs it? Look over the following information:

Sealants Are Effective

When it comes to agreeing to dental procedures, complex treatment can often cause people to hesitate. However, dental sealants require a very simple procedure and offer wonderful benefits. We encourage you to choose this preventive solution for your child for the following reasons:

  • Sealants provide a barrier over your child’s hard-to-reach teeth, which often have a multitude of fissures and grooves where bacteria can easily hide – this can quickly lead to a cavity
  • Dental sealants last for five to 10 years in most cases, which means your child will enjoy long-term protection against tooth decay on back teeth
  • Your child will feel better about his or her efforts in home hygiene when back teeth remain cavity-free for an extended period of time
  • Nobody will be able to detect that your child has sealants except for a dental professional

The Process Is Simple

Applying sealants is easy, so you won’t have to worry about your child’s comfort. We will clean your little one’s teeth to prep them. Then, we will carefully paint a layer of plastic over the chewing surfaces of your child’s molars. We may use a special light to accelerate the drying process. And it’s that simple. 

ABOUT YOUR MANSFIELD DENTISTS:

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris of Mansfield Dental Associates rely upon their years of experience, training, and cutting-edge technology to offer patients expert dental care at each and every visit. They listen to each patient’s concerns and offer gentle, informative guidance about future treatments. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call (817) 473-6227. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: Family Dentistry, Preventive Dentistry

Animal Extravaganza Week? Yes, Please.

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Do you love everything and anything to do with animals? Do you have trouble imagining anything more exciting and adorable than a week dedicated solely to our furry, feathered, or scale-covered friends? Then you may feel a bit overwhelmed when you learn about Animal Extravaganza Week in Mansfield.

About the Event

A week of celebrating animals – it’s sure to be a good time for the entire family. You can expect to visit a variety of venues around town that are participating in the excitement. The list of activities includes the following:

  • Movies at The Mac: Showing of 101 Dalmatians on Tuesday, March 10. Tickets cost $2 per person.
  • Craft Party: Animal craft fun time and snacks at the Mansfield Activities Center on Wednesday, March 11. Tickets cost $5 per person.
  • Raptors of Texas: You will be able to view a variety of birds, such as owls and falcons, at The Blackland Prairie Raptor Center on Thursday, March 12. Admission is free.
  • Critterman: See the wilder side of the animal kingdom, such as a hissing cockroach, with Critterman on Friday, March 13. Tickets cost $5 per person. Children must be accompanied by an adult – admission for parents is free.

ABOUT YOUR MANSFIELD DENTISTS:

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris of Mansfield Dental Associates rely upon their years of experience, training, and cutting-edge technology to offer patients expert dental care at each and every visit. They listen to each patient’s concerns and offer gentle, informative guidance about future treatments. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call (817) 473-6227. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: Community Events, Family Dentistry

Digital X-Rays: Your FAQs

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When it comes to providing our patients with the comfort they deserve, one of the ways we ensure this is with the use of advanced technology like digital X-rays. While you likely have a solid understanding of what this type of imaging is used for – it gives us a closer look at the internal workings of your oral cavity – you may find that you have some questions. From wondering what makes this type of X-ray different from conventional ones to feeling curious about the benefits, we are happy you are interested and would like to answer some of your most frequently asked questions below:

FAQs About Digital X-Rays

Question: What makes them “digital” instead of conventional?

Answer: The process relies on the use of computer technology rather than film development.

Question: So this means you won’t need to develop the X-rays?

Answer: Yes. Rather than using film and chemicals that pollute the environment and create waste, we will simply upload the image into our computer. Fortunately, this means digital X-rays offer a green, earth-friendly solution to capturing images of your mouth.

Question: Do they emit less radiation?

Answer: Yes, this is one of the very exciting benefits.

Question: Is the process the same?

Answer: It is similar, but not identical. Unlike conventional X-rays that require you to close your teeth on bitewings, this is much simpler. We will place a small sensor comfortably in your mouth in a variety of locations to take your X-rays. The process is quick.

Question: What are the benefits of having the X-rays loaded into your computer?

Answer: This makes everyone’s lives much easier. First, we can quickly begin showing you what we see happening in the inner workings of your mouth. Also, we may very easily take a closer look at the X-rays using computer software and can even send them via email if you need to see a specialist.

ABOUT YOUR MANSFIELD DENTISTS:

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris of Mansfield Dental Associates rely upon their years of experience, training, and cutting-edge technology to offer patients expert dental care at each and every visit. They listen to each patient’s concerns and offer gentle, informative guidance about future treatments. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call (817) 473-6227. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: Checkup, Patient Comfort

The Benefits of Choosing Dentures

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We find that people often fail to recognize the many benefits of dentures. While we understand patients tend to have preconceived notions about this dental prosthetic solution, we encourage you to have an open mind. First and foremost, this teeth replacement option can greatly improve your current comfort and long-term oral health. You’ll find that you regain your confidence in your appearance, too. Wondering what’s so wonderful about full and partial dentures? Look ahead:

Benefit #1: You Can Quickly Restore Your Smile

We will provide you with custom-fitted dentures that will restore the structure and beauty of your smile within a short amount of time. This solution is budget-friendly and can replace many teeth – even all of your teeth – with ease. You may choose partial dentures if you are missing some of your teeth but still have healthy natural teeth remaining. Or, you may select full dentures to replace a full arch – or both arches – of teeth.

Benefit #2: You Can Chew and Speak Comfortably Again

Your teeth are incredibly important to your daily life. In addition to feeling confident about smiling at others, you will regain your ability to speak articulately, whether over the phone or face-to-face. In addition, replacing your teeth will let you indulge in a wider variety of foods for improved nutrition and the ability to enjoy food again.

Benefit #3: Your Lower Face Sags without Teeth

The lower portion of your face enjoys a full appearance because of the support that your teeth and gum tissue beneath provide. When you are missing many teeth, the lower portion of your face may appear to droop and may sink inward toward your mouth. Restore your smile with dentures and you will see the years disappear from your face. 

ABOUT YOUR MANSFIELD DENTISTS:

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris of Mansfield Dental Associates rely upon their years of experience, training, and cutting-edge technology to offer patients expert dental care at each and every visit. They listen to each patient’s concerns and offer gentle, informative guidance about future treatments. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call (817) 473-6227. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: Dentures, Partial Dentures, Restorative Dentistry

Common Questions About Sedation Dentistry

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Many people don’t particularly care for a trip to the dentist – however, a good portion of the world feels so nervous regarding dental care that they cannot even bring themselves to schedule preventive visits. Rather than avoiding the necessary care that you need to maintain a healthy smile, we hope you will consider the benefits of sedation dentistry. Appropriate for a wide variety of people, this solution can give you the confidence you need to pick up the phone and schedule your next visit. Wondering if this option is for you? Have a few questions? Find your answers with the following:

Common Questions About Sedation

Question: What types of sedation do you offer?

Answer: We offer nitrous oxide or oral sedation. Nitrous oxide, also called “laughing gas,” takes the edge off of your nerves. You will inhale the gas through a mask placed over your nose. It will work quickly and wear off almost immediately, so you may drive yourself home after your visit. Oral sedation includes taking a pill by mouth before your visit or procedure. It will relax you deeply – you will remain conscious by may even forget some of or your entire visit once the pill wears off. Because the drug takes time to leave your system, you will need a friend to drive you home after your appointment.

Question: Will you make sure I’m okay during my visit?

Answer: Yes. A member of our team will watch you and monitor your comfort, as well as your vitals. We will make sure you are safe and comfortable throughout your appointment.

Question: Will sedation help me feel less anxious?

Answer: Yes, these options work wonders for individuals with mild to severe dental anxiety. You will be awake but you can expect to feel extremely relaxed.

ABOUT YOUR MANSFIELD DENTISTS:

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris of Mansfield Dental Associates rely upon their years of experience, training, and cutting-edge technology to offer patients expert dental care at each and every visit. They listen to each patient’s concerns and offer gentle, informative guidance about future treatments. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call (817) 473-6227. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: Patient Comfort, Sedation Dentistry

Daddy Daughter Dance (For All Ages)

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Light on your feet and love to dance the night away? If so, the city of Mansfield, TX is hosting a Sweetheart Dance where dads can enjoy a fun-filled evening with their daughters. Themed as a “Masquerade Ball,” this event calls for a little costume creativity. You are encouraged to “grab your favorite mask and put on your dancing shoes,” from the official invite.

What Is It?

A night for relaxing, enjoying quality time, and laughing. Oh, and dancing, too, of course. Mansfield has organized a dance for fathers and their daughters, primarily girls aged 4 to 13, though individuals of all ages are cordially invited. (However, moms have been informed kindly that they must remain outside!). You can expect to enjoy complimentary refreshments for a night of fun. You will even be given a professional photo of you and your little one, for a nice memento.

When Is It?

The dance will be held Saturday, February 7, 2015 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm.

Where Is It?

You may participate in this event at the Mansfield Activities Center, located at the following address:

Mansfield Activities Center
106 S. Wisteria
Mansfield, TX 76063 

How Much Are Tickets?

Tickets cost $30 per couple. You may purchase additional tickets for $5 for each additional daughter you bring with you to the event. To avoid a late fee, you must register by February 1. While MAC cards are not necessary, you may enjoy a discount if you are a MAC card carrier.

ABOUT YOUR MANSFIELD DENTISTS:

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris of Mansfield Dental Associates rely upon their years of experience, training, and cutting-edge technology to offer patients expert dental care at each and every visit. They listen to each patient’s concerns and offer gentle, informative guidance about future treatments. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call (817) 473-6227. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: Community Events, General Dentistry

Dental Bridges: Your Frequently Asked Questions

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Have your friends or family members talked to you about a bridge and how it may solve your tooth loss problem? If you are missing one tooth or up to three teeth in a row, you may make a wonderful candidate for a dental bridge. This dental prosthetic provides a long-term solution to completing your smile in the wake of tooth loss. Rather than waiting any longer for the answers you seek, we encourage you to look over the following frequently asked questions and accompanying explanations. Learning more will help you determine whether this restorative treatment is well suited to your needs.

Your Frequently Asked Questions About Bridges

Question: What is a dental bridge?

Answer: A bridge is a dental prosthetic that may replace one tooth or a series of up to three teeth side-by-side. It is composed of dental crowns on either end. These crowns will be placed over your natural teeth for support. Between these anchor crowns lies one – or a series – of pontics, or artificial teeth. Once placed, the bridge completes the open space in your mouth.

Question: Is a bridge permanent or removable?

Answer: This prosthetic is “fixed” meaning we will place it permanently in your mouth for long-term wear. You will not be able to remove it.

Question: Will the bridge look obvious?

Answer: No. We will color-match the artificial teeth in the bridge to match your surrounding teeth for the appearance of a seamless, uniform smile.

Question: Are there any health benefits to choosing this solution?

Answer: Yes. You will be able to chew comfortably again, for improved nutrition. Filling the open space will improve your dental hygiene, preventing food from becoming stuck in the opening. In addition, the dental bridge acts as a placeholder, preventing your remaining natural teeth from moving into the open space, which often results in misalignment.

ABOUT YOUR MANSFIELD DENTISTS:

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris of Mansfield Dental Associates rely upon their years of experience, training, and cutting-edge technology to offer patients expert dental care at each and every visit. They listen to each patient’s concerns and offer gentle, informative guidance about future treatments. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call (817) 473-6227. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: Dental Bridge, Restorative Dentistry