Dental Implants Trivia with Your Mansfield Dentists

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Your Mansfield dentists know that choosing a tooth replacement system is a big decision that requires careful thought and research. Dental implants are unique from other tooth replacement options such as bridges or dentures because they alone replace the tooth root with a prosthetic root. The jawbone will grow around and unite with the surface of the implant root, creating a stable foundation for the crown, bridge, or dentures that it supports. At Mansfield Jones, Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris provide dental implants in a comfortable, welcoming environment. They now discuss some little-known facts about dental implants.

  • The process entails two appointments over a 6 to 8 month period. In the first appointment, an experienced dental surgeon will place the titanium tooth root implant into the jawbone. It then takes the jawbone about 3 to 6 months to heal and fully unite with the implant root. In the final step of the process, Dr. Jones or Dr. Harris will place a crown on the implant.
  • Replacing missing teeth with a stable, long-lasting option such as dental implants prevents many problems that can arise from missing teeth. For example, missing teeth can cause bone loss in the jaw, the appearance of shrunken cheeks, crooked teeth, and a misaligned bite.
  • Smoking significantly increases the risk of a dental implant failing. However, implants have been shown to last decades when patients follow diligent oral hygiene habits and attend regular dental checkups.
  • Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris offer MDI Denture Stabilization System, also known as mini implants, for patients who do not possess adequate bone tissue in the jaw to support a dental implant. Mini implants are smaller than traditional implants, and after the doctor easily inserts the mini implant into the bone, Dr. Jones or Dr. Harris can promptly fasten the dentures to the implants at the same appointment.
  •  Dental implants do not require special care. Simply care for them as you would care for your other teeth: twice daily brushing and once daily flossing. The doctors particularly urge you to take special care to floss very well around your implant at least once a day.

About Your Mansfield Dentists

If you would like to learn more about dental implants or how to replace missing teeth, call our office at 817-473-6227. Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris provide stellar general, restorative, and cosmetic dental services at their Mansfield office. They proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: Dental Implants, Mansfield Dental Associates, Missing Teeth

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Q and A: Dentists Answer Questions About Sealants

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Dental sealants are a quick and easy tool for preventing caries, the tooth decay that causes cavities. A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The back teeth are difficult to adequately clean, making them a popular spot for bacteria to thrive. Many are not aware that sealants can be used for adults in addition to children. For example, adults suffering from a dry mouth condition may highly benefit from sealants because their decreased saliva production can make them more susceptible to developing cavities. During your sealants procedure at our Mansfield office, Dr. Blair Jones or Dr. Seth Harris will clean and dry your tooth prior to skillfully spreading the sealant on the surface of the tooth. They may then direct a curing light towards the tooth to harden the sealant. The sealant blocks plaque from clinging to your teeth, ultimately decreasing your chances of acquiring cavities. The doctors now answer common questions about dental sealants.

Q: What do sealants do exactly?

A: Most tooth decay occurs on the surfaces of the back teeth. Sealants essentially seal off the tooth from food particles and germs that can settle in the crevices of teeth surfaces and lead to tooth decay.

Q: Which teeth will receive sealants?

A: Our team will place sealants on the molars, the teeth in the back of the mouth.

 Q: Can other people tell I have sealants?

A: Sealants can be white, clear, or tinted, and they are only visible up close. They are not typically noticeable during everyday speaking and eating.

Q: How long can they last?

A:  Sealants can last up to 5 to 10 years, and the doctors recommend coming in for your check ups every six months so that your sealants can be examined. Replacing a sealant is a brief and straightforward procedure.

Q: I’m a parent. Should each of my children receive sealants?

A: The CDC recommends sealants for all school-aged children. If possible, sealants should be placed soon after the teeth come in, before they can develop decay.

About Your Mansfield Dentists

If you would like to speak to our team about receiving sealants, please call our Mansfield office at (817) 259-1357. Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris provide a wide range of cosmetic, general, and restorative dentistry services in a compassionate environment. They proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Fort Worth, Alvarado, and Midlothian areas.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

filed under: Mansfield Dental Associates, Plaque, Preventive Dentistry, Uncategorized

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How To Prevent Cavities

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We have all experienced the inconvenience and discomfort of dental cavities. Our mouths contain several types of bacteria, and the bacteria feed off the sugars and starches from the foods that we eat. The bacteria then create an acidic film that sticks to our teeth. This acid demineralizes the enamel, the top coating of our teeth. This can eventually lead to a cavity, and the first sign of a cavity may be a sensitivity to eating or drinking very cold or very hot foods. Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris of Mansfield believe in preventing problems before they occur, and we now discuss some steps you can take to stop cavities before they start.

Steps You Can Take

  • Take advantage of Fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that can stop or even reverse early tooth decay. Most major municipalities supply fluoridated water for this reason, but if your child only drinks bottled water, you may consider introducing tap water to her water supply. Our dentists also recommend using fluoride toothpaste.
  • Limit snacks between meals. While it is important to avoid sugary foods and drinks such as sodas and fruit juices, our dentists also suggest reducing snacks between meals if possible. Each time we eat, our mouth’s bacteria flourish from the carbohydrates and produces acids that can eat through the enamel. Eating fewer small meals or snacks throughout the day gives our teeth more time to remedy themselves from this acid.
  • Avoid sugary drinks after evening brushing. When we sleep, our saliva flow decreases, and that decrease in saliva makes it more difficult for our teeth to mend themselves from the acid. Lower saliva flow is a risk factor in tooth decay. So keep your teeth clean while you sleep.
  • Maintain good oral hygiene habits. Our dentists strongly support brushing twice a day and flossing at least once daily. To prevent cavities and treat them before they worsen, it is also vital to maintain dental check-ups every six months.

About Our Doctors

Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris have been treating their patients with gentle, individualized care for several years. If you have a question about your tooth pain or would like to schedule an appointment, call their Mansfield office at (817) 259-1357. They serve patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Fort Worth, Alvarado, and Midlothian areas.

 

 

filed under: Dental Hygiene, General Dentistry, Mansfield Dental Associates

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Mansfield Dentists Answer Your Questions about TMJ

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Have you ever experienced troublesome pain around your jaw, possibly in or around your ears? You may be suffering from temporomandibular joint problems, also referred to as TMJ disorders. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects the skull to your jawbone. The TMJ and the muscles attached to it control the up and down and side to side movement of the jaw. This joint affects one’s ability to chew, speak, and open and close the mouth. Symptoms of TMJ disorders include pain in the jaw or facial muscles, pain in or around the ears, difficulty or soreness while chewing, or locking of the joint. Some TMJ sufferers may experience persistent headaches. At their practice in Mansfield, Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris strive for patient education and understanding, and they will take the time to ensure that patients understand diagnoses and treatment options. The doctors answer some common questions about TMJ.

Question: I have heard that having a bad bite or braces can cause TMJ. Is this true?

Answer: Research does not support this theory. Trauma to the jaw or the TMJ can cause TMJ disorders. Also, the cartilage that surrounds the joint can be weakened by arthritis, leading to TMJ issues. Teeth grinding or clenching the jaw, called bruxism, has been related to TMJ disorders because of the excessive force that the teeth exert on the teeth surfaces.

Question: How can I make myself stop grinding my teeth if I’m doing it while I’m asleep?

Answer: Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris can fit you for a mouth guard that you wear while sleeping. This oral appliance can prevent you from grinding your teeth overnight.

Question: What can I expect from my TMJ consultation?

Answer: Our dentists will thoroughly examine your mouth, jaw, and neck. They will also ask you questions about your pain history. They will use digital radiography to take x-rays of your teeth and jawbone. They will promptly show you the x-ray on the monitor so that you can understand what is going on and what your options are.

Question: What is my long-term prognosis?

Answer: According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, most TMJ patients find relief in conservative treatment methods such as applying ice packs, avoiding sudden jaw movements such as yawning or gum chewing, eating soft foods, and practicing gentle jaw stretches. If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw, Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris may suggest that you consider relaxation techniques, lifestyle changes that can lower daily stress, or a mouth guard for sleep.

About Our Doctors

If you would like more information about TMJ, please call our office or schedule an appointment at (817) 259-1357. At Mansfield Dental Associates, we treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: Bruxism, Dental Mouthguards, TMD

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How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

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Investing in a dental implant is not something that many people regret. A dental implant can provide your mouth with many years of comfort and good oral health. A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth that is placed directly into the jawbone. Dental implants are made out of titanium, a biocompatible material that encourages the bone to fuse to the implant. The bone fuses to the implant and grows around it in a process known as osseointegration. After osseointegration completes, a crown is placed on the implant’s abutment, the portion of the implant that protrudes above the gum line. Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris of Mansfield Dental Associates develop long-term relationships with their patients, and they truly care about your health and well-being. In addition to general, cosmetic and other restorative dental services, they will strive to create a long-lasting, durable dental implant that is right for you.

Benefits of Dental Implants

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filed under: Dental Implants, Mansfield Dental Associates, Restorative Dentistry

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Porcelain Veneers 101

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Not many people are aware of the transformative power of porcelain veneers. They have the ability to, in two simple dental visits, reform a tooth and in so doing, renew your entire smile. Porcelain veneers, also known as dental laminates, are very thin layers of porcelain that are attached to the front side of the tooth. Dentists apply veneers to treat chipped, worn, stained, or crooked teeth. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris put patient satisfaction first, and they will draw upon their impressive training in restorative dentistry to correct your areas of concern with porcelain veneers.

The Procedure

Our dentists will place your veneers in two appointments. At the first visit, Dr. Jones or Dr. Harris will remove a thin layer of enamel, the top layer of the tooth, to make a space for the veneer. He will then obtain impressions so that the dental lab can mold your custom-fit veneers. He may also place temporary veneers so that you can see how you like them. Once the doctors receive your permanent veneers, you will return to the office, and the doctor will place a light-sensitive resin on your tooth which acts as an adhesive. He then uses a special curing light that hardens the resin, creating a very strong, stable bond between the tooth and the veneer.

Common Uses for Veneers

  • Repairing minor tooth imperfections: Veneers can treat chipped or worn teeth, particularly teeth that are dimpled or pitted on their surface. Because of their dependability, stain resistance, and natural appearance, veneers excel at repairing minor defects.
  • Correcting Discolorations: Veneers can whiten mildly stained teeth such as those that possess stains from fluorosis, root canal complications, or injuries. They can also lighten previously placed dental fillings that have yellowed over time.
  • Closing gaps between teeth: Veneers can eliminate space in between teeth.
  • Treating crooked teeth: If teeth are crooked, veneers can be attached to make the teeth appear more even.

Caring for Your Porcelain Veneers

Our doctors recommend that you care for your veneers just as you would for your normal teeth: brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris may suggest a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste for your veneer. They will also emphasize the importance of attending your regular check-ups every six months because they will examine your veneers at that time for any issues that may arise.

About Our Doctors

Located in Mansfield, Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris welcome and treat patients for nearly all of their comprehensive dentistry needs. They serve Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, and Midlothian areas. To schedule a consultation, call (817) 259-1357.

filed under: Porcelain Veneers, Restorative Dentistry

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In-Office Whitening Vs. Over-the-Counter Whitening

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According to an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry survey, 74% of adults believe that an attractive smile will help them in their career. When respondents were asked what they would like to change about their smile, the most common response was to have whiter teeth. We are inundated with ads marketing the benefits of over-the-counter, do-it-yourself whitening products. Arming yourself with the expert, gentle care of Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris, your teeth whitening experience will give you peace of mind, as well as dramatic results. (more…)

filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry, Mansfield Dental Associates, Teeth whitening

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Signs That You May Need a Root Canal

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A root canal treatment focuses on the inside of the tooth. Root canal treatments remove inflamed, infected tissues from the root canals and inner area of the tooth. Deep tooth decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, and cracks or chips in the tooth can allow bacteria to enter its inner chamber, or pulp, and cause inflammation or infection of the nerves and blood vessels it holds. Internal tooth injuries can also cause pulp problems even if the tooth has no obvious external damage, such as a crack or chip. If the inflammation or infection is not treated, it can become painful, especially if an abscess develops. During the root canal procedure, Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris of Mansfield Dental will remove the infected pulp and clean the tooth’s interior. Once the tooth is sanitized, they will fill the root’s canal with a sealer paste called gutta percha. If needed, our doctors will then place a crown over the tooth to reinstate its function and protect it from further damage.

Symptoms

If your tooth has infected or inflamed pulp tissue, you may suffer severe pain when you chew or apply pressure to your teeth. You may also experience tooth sensitivity or discomfort with hot or cold temperatures. Sometimes, you may notice that your tooth is darkening, or that your gums are red and inflamed. If you notice pimple-like dot on your gums, an abscess (pocket of infected pus) may have formed on the tooth’s root, and it may need draining in addition to root canal therapy. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris strongly recommend sticking to a strict schedule of routine dental check ups in case a tooth infection does not cause any obvious signs.

Children and Root Canals

Sometimes, young children can prematurely lose their baby teeth or their young permanent teeth when the living tissue inside the tooth becomes infected. Retaining primary teeth is important because they prepare the jawbone for the developing permanent teeth that will replace them. Premature tooth loss can inhibit the proper development of their mouths and can lead to functional issues including regularities in their jaw and/or teeth alignment (malocclusion). In addition, permanent tooth replacement options, such as dental implants, are not usually recommended for children, because they’re oral structures are still growing and changing. Therefore, a root canal procedure may be recommended to save your child’s tooth if it’s damaged or suffers severe tooth decay.

About Our Doctors

Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris provide compassionate, patient-focused general, restorative, and family dentistry at Mansfield Dental Associates. They welcome patients from Mansfield, Fort Worth, Arlington, Crowley, Burleson, and the surrounding areas. To schedule a consultation, please call us at (817) 259-1357.

filed under: Restorative Dentistry, Root Canals

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What to Expect at Your Dental Implant Procedure

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We all become anxious when anticipating a dental or medical procedure. However, knowing what to expect rids patients of a significant amount of stress. The same is true of your dental implants surgery. A dental implant procedure is a tooth replacement option that replaces your missing tooth root with an artificial root made of titanium. Your dentist inserts an implant root into the jawbone, and after the jawbone heals, he places an implant abutment and crown on top. Dr. S. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris build personal relationships with their patients and believe in fully educating them about their treatment options. Their step by step guide to the dental implant procedure will squelch any remaining jitters.

Steps of the Dental Implant Procedure

  • If the tooth has not yet been removed, Dr. Harris or Dr. Jones will extract it. They will then make a a small incision in the gums to expose the bone and create the implant site.
  • They will insert a titanium dental implant into the implant site.
  • As the jawbone heals, it bonds to the implant much like the jawbone adheres to natural teeth. In this process, known as osseointegration, the bone cells fuse directly to the titanium surface, growing around it and providing support.
  • After osseointegration is completed, your dentist will place an abutment on the implant. The abutment protrudes slightly above the gum line because it holds the crown, bridge, or dentures in place.
  • The dentist will then connect the crown to the abutment.
  • Following the surgery, you may experience discomfort at the implant site, minor bleeding, or gum inflammation. You can take over the counter pain medications such as Tylenol or Motrin, but if symptoms persist, then visit us as soon as possible to ensure you are healing properly.
  • The dentist will recommend that you eat soft foods for 10-14 days.
  • Continue oral hygiene habits of brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups; it is especially vital to floss around the implant on a daily basis.
  • As with any surgery, Dr. Harris and Dr. Jones will schedule a post-operative appointment to check on your healing.
  • If you have any concerns or if your pain worsens, call our office at any time.

About the Dentists of Mansfield Dental Associates

Dr. S. Blair Jones has provided stellar general, restorative, and cosmetic services for over 28 years. Dr. Seth Harris joined Dr. Jones at Mansfield Dental Associates in 2011, and together they serve patients of all ages from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, and Midlothian areas. To schedule a consultation, please call (817) 473-6227 or (817) 259-1357.

filed under: Dental Implants, Mansfield Dental Associates, Restorative Dentistry

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White vs. Silver: Which Filling is Better?

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Have you ever wondered why some dental fillings are white while others are silver?  These white fillings are known as composite resin fillings, and the silver-like fillings are called amalgam fillings.  During a dental filling procedure at Mansfield Dental Associates, Dr. S. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris first remove the decay from the tooth, prepare the space for the filling by cleaning the cavity of bacteria and debris, and then apply a filling of silver amalgam or composite resin.  They are highly experienced in the placement of both types of fillings.  Our dentists are also dedicated to educating patients on their options, so we discuss the differences between these two.

Different Kinds of Fillings

  • Silver (amalgam) dental fillings are sturdier than white fillings.   Amalgam is stronger because it is made up of metals– silver, tin, copper, zinc, and mercury, to be exact.  It is generally recommended for back teeth, which must withstand greater force from chewing.  The composite resin material, on the other hand, is a mixture of plastic and glass materials, and are not as durable as metal amalgam.
  • Amalgam fillings are less expensive than white fillings.
  • Amalgam fillings last longer than composite fillings.
  • White fillings are less apparent than the silver-like amalgam fillings.  They can also be tinted to best match the color of your teeth.
  • Amalgam fillings emanate low levels of mercury vapor that you might inhale.  If a person is exposed to a significant amount of mercury vapor, it can harm the brain or kidneys.  However, after reviewing the available scientific studies, the FDA has determined that silver fillings are safe for adults and children over age six. Nevertheless, if you’re pregnant or have a metal allergy, then discuss your condition with our dentists during your initial consultation.
  • Amalgam fillings are held in place by the shape of a cavity. If a cavity is too small, the cavity must be widened at the base of the tooth so that the filling can hold its shape.  As a result, the dentist may be forced to remove a small portion of the healthy tooth.  On the other hand, a white filling conforms to the shape of the cavity, and can be used for very small cavities with greater success.

ABOUT YOUR MANSFIELD DENTISTS:

If you have any questions about dental fillings, or would like to schedule a consultation, please call Mansfield Dental Associates at (817) 259-1357.   Serving patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Fort Worth, Alvarado, and Midlothian areas, Dr. S. Blair Jones and Dr. Harris share a unique dedication to the health and satisfaction of all our patients.

filed under: Dental Fillings, Restorative Dentistry

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