Steps of Zoom! Teeth Whitening

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If you have ever felt embarrassed by stained or discolored teeth, Mansfield Dental Associates now offers an efficient and effective teeth whitening option, Zoom! Zoom! is a straightforward whitening system that can lighten your teeth up to ten shades in an hour or less. Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris provide gentle restorative, general, and cosmetic dentistry services in a comfortable environment. They now explain the steps of one of the leading choices for professional teeth whitening, Zoom!

Steps Prior to Procedure

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris will examine your teeth and gums prior to the procedure to ensure that you are a good candidate for whitening. If you are experiencing gum disease, tooth decay, or other dental issues, the doctors will treat these before they whiten your teeth.

Steps of Zoom! Whitening System

The first step is to clean the teeth with brushing. Then, Dr. Jones or Dr. Harris will place a shield or cover that protects the lips and gums from the bleaching agent. In the next step, the doctors will spread the Zoom hydrogen peroxide gel over the teeth. Your doctors will shine the Zoom Advanced Power Chairside Lamp which stimulates the peroxide. The doctors will then remove the gel after 15 minutes and re-apply it, repeating the process twice more. Finally, Dr. Jones or Dr. Harris will apply a special paste on the teeth to help combat any side effects of the bleaching agent such as tooth sensitivity.

At-Home Care

After you complete the Zoom! treatment in our office, your doctors will send you home with an at-home whitening kit with custom-fitted whitening trays. They will instruct you on how often to use them to preserve the improved appearance of your teeth. Avoiding certain foods and drinks such as coffee, red wine, soda, and tobacco products will also protect the effects of the Zoom whitening.

About Our Doctors

Mansfield Dental Associates is dedicated to achieving patient satisfaction with each of their various dental services. If you would like to learn more about our whitening treatments or to schedule a consultation, please call 817-473-6227. Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris serve patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

 

 

 

filed under: Mansfield Dental Associates, Teeth whitening

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The Importance of Gum Health for Men

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Your Mansfield dentists, Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris, recognize the importance of healthy gums. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, gum disease affects 56.4 percent of men and 38.4 percent of women. Men may develop gum disease more frequently than women because they are less likely to visit the dentist or because they possess more advanced symptoms of the disease such as bleeding around the gums. As we approach Father’s Day, Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris take a closer look at men’s periodontal health, or gum disease, and how it may influence the following components of men’s health: heart disease, prostate health, cancers, and impotence.

  • Heart disease. Research shows that heart disease is linked to gum disease. The exact correlation is unclear but possessing gum disease may put a man at a greater risk of developing heart disease. Some researchers theorize that the fact that both gum disease and heart disease are chronic inflammatory conditions may be the commonality between the two conditions. Caring for your gums may improve your heart health.
  • Prostate health. Research also shows that gum disease may accompany prostate disease. Data shows that men who acquire both gum disease and prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) possess higher levels of PSA than men with only gum disease or only prostatitis. PSA, prostate-specific antigen, is an enzyme that is produced by the prostate. PSA levels increase if the prostate becomes infected, inflamed, or develops cancer. Therefore, there is some sort of relationship between prostate health and gum health.
  • Cancer. Scientific studies have also demonstrated that men who have developed gum disease at some point in their life are 14 percent more likely to develop cancer than men without gum disease. In particular, gum disease presents a 49 percent greater likelihood of developing kidney disease, a 49 percent greater likelihood of pancreatic cancer, and a 30 percent elevated risk of blood cancers.
  • Impotence. Men who have developed gum disease have a higher risk of experiencing impotence, particularly men who are younger than 30 and older than 70. Experts speculate that this may occur because both conditions are inflammatory conditions, and long-term inflammation can harm blood vessels and bring about impotence.

About Our Doctor

If you would like to learn more about gum disease or to schedule a consultation, please call Mansfield Dental Associates at 817-473-6227. Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris of Mansfield Dental proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: General Dentistry, Gum Disease, Mansfield Dental Associates

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Your Dentist Explains the Different Types of Dentures

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Finding the best teeth replacement system can be overwhelming and stressful. We all want to feel comfortable and confident in our smile, and we want the artificial teeth to last for a long period of time. Dentures have progressed with the use of improved and lighter plastics, adhesives, impression materials, and even dental implants. Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris utilize the latest technology to deliver clinical excellence in each of their general, restorative, and cosmetic services. At their Mansfield office, they offer partial dentures, full dentures, and implant-secured dentures. They now discuss the differences between these types of dentures.

Types of Dentures

  • Partial dentures are a good option when you do not need all of your teeth replaced. Partial dentures are a set of artificial teeth that are attached to a gum-colored plastic base. They are comprised of a metal framework and subtle clasps that connect the denture to surrounding healthy teeth. Partial dentures can be taken out and reinserted into your mouth, so they provide a removable option compared to fixed bridges.
  • Full dentures replace all of your teeth on the lower or upper jaw. The replacement teeth rest atop a flesh-covered acrylic base that fits over your gums.
  • Implant-secured dentures are dentures that are attached to dental implants. For those who do not have sufficient bone tissue to support traditional dental implants, Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris also offer mini implants, also referred to as MDI Denture Stabilization System. Mini implants are smaller than typical implants, and they are more efficiently placed into the jawbone. Immediately after the doctor inserts the mini implants, he can place the denture on top of the mini implants. Implant-secured dentures benefit from the stability provided by the implant root.

What to Expect with Your Dentures

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris will instruct you on how long to wear the denture and when to remove it. The denture may feel foreign and awkward in the beginning, but over time, you will adapt to it. If it continuously presses uncomfortably on a certain area of your mouth, inform your dentists so that they can adjust it. Also, avoid eating chewy or hard foods in the beginning. It may help to cut soft food into smaller bites, and attempt to chew evenly on both sides to distribute the chewing force to both sides. Do not force the denture into place by biting down on it as it may break the clasps. Also, continue to practice good dental hygiene habits by brushing your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth before inserting your dentures in the morning. Brushing your mouth with a soft bristled toothbrush will remove plaque.

About Your Doctors

Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris will explain your options so that you can make a thoughtful decision on what type of denture is right for you. If you would like to discuss dentures or schedule a consultation, call 817-473-6227. We serve patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: Dentures, Implant Dentures, Partial Dentures

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FAQ: Dental Cleanings in Mansfield, Texas

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According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC,) about 61 percent of adults visited a dentist in 2012. Whether it’s a lack of time or money that may be keeping you from visiting the dentist, Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris urge all adults to recognize the value of bi-annual dental cleanings. More and more research is showing the connection between oral health and your overall health. Your Mansfield dentists provide gentle dental cleanings as well as a number of general, restorative, and cosmetic services in a friendly, welcoming environment. They now answer common questions about dental cleanings.

Can’t I just clean my teeth at home?

Brushing and flossing is of utmost importance for your oral health, but the doctors and their staff utilize advanced technology to thoroughly clean hard-to-reach spots that you can’t thoroughly brush at home. When plaque builds up and hardens into tartar, only a professional cleaning can fully remove the harmful tartar, especially along or below the gum line. Our team will also take dental x-rays that identify tooth decay, gum disease, bite issues, and other problems early on. Early detection will enable the professionals to more efficiently treat the problems before they necessitate more time-consuming treatments.

How often should I obtain a dental cleaning?

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris highly recommend obtaining dental cleanings every six months.

At a typical cleaning, will I be seen by the dentist?

Yes, at every dental cleaning, your dentist will spend time personally examining your teeth and gums for any abnormalities or signs of tooth decay or gum disease. Also, after reviewing your x-rays, he will discuss his conclusions and recommendations with you, explaining all you treatment options so that you can make an informed decision about what is best for you.

How much does a dental cleaning cost?

Most insurance plans cover two cleanings a year. To determine the exact cost of a dental cleaning with or without insurance, our helpful office staff can answer your questions as well as to inform you if we accept your insurance plan.

About Our Doctors

Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris provide stress-free dental cleanings in their Mansfield office. To schedule a consultation, please call 817-473-6227. We proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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The Truth about Smoking and Your Oral Health

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Everyone knows that smoking is bad for you. Most associate it with causing lung cancer, but did you know that smoking threatens the health of your teeth and gums and can lead to oral cancer? Your Mansfield dentists, Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris, echo the work of the World Health Organization (WHO) as it recognizes the dangers of smoking. This month on May 31st, the WHO designates May 31st as World No Tobacco Day. The WHO asks countries worldwide to raise taxes on tobacco as a concrete means to curtail tobacco consumption. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris want to ensure the long-term oral health of all their patients. They discuss the negative consequences of smoking here.

A Proven Risk Factor for Cancers

Smoking is a risk factor in many cancers including cancer of the mouth, throat, lip, tongue and salivary glands. Smokeless tobacco products are not any safer because they have been found to contain several tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs,) chemicals that can cause cancer. For example, smokeless tobacco products such as snuff and chewing tobacco can put you at greater risk for developing oral cancer, throat cancer, or esophageal cancer.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is typically painless in its early stages and progresses gradually, so some patients may not realize they have it. Smoking increases your chances of developing gum disease because it causes tartar to collect on your teeth more quickly. The presence of tartar for a continued period of time can lead to gum inflammation or infection, also known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild and reversible form of gum disease. It requires the attention of a dental professional to remove the tartar thoroughly. If gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to a more serious form of gum disease, and the gums and the bone will pull away from the teeth. As the bone and gums deteriorate, they are unable to adequately support the teeth, and the teeth can become loose and fall out.

Cosmetic Impact

Many people yearn for a brighter, whiter smile. But smoking quickly stains teeth because of its nicotine and tar. It also leads to bad breath because it lowers the amount of saliva that we produce. Without a steady saliva flow, food particles remain in our mouths, making unpleasant odors. Also, a healthy amount of saliva helps to prevent gum disease, another culprit for bad breath. Smoking can also decrease your ability to taste foods.

About Our Doctors

Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris wish to educate their patients about the dangers of smoking in honor of World No Tobacco Day. In their Mansfield office, they provide general, restorative, and cosmetic services. To schedule a consultation, please call our office at (817) 259-1357. They serve patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.

filed under: Allergies and Oral Health, Mansfield Dental Associates, Oral Cancer

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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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