Since 2000, the teeth whitening industry has boomed, raking in over $1 billion a year in revenue. In an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry survey, more respondents identified whiter teeth as the primary aspect of their smile they’d like to change. The thousands of teeth whitening products available at the store, at bleaching spas and kiosks, and at your dentist’s office have made this cosmetic dental procedure extremely affordable. Even the ADA says that teeth whitening, when administered by a licensed dentist, is a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of your smile. Unfortunately, using teeth whitening products irresponsibly can lead to serious and even permanent oral health issues down the line. (more…)
Who Shouldn’t Get Veneers?
First, the good news: porcelain veneers offer a reliable way for a skilled cosmetic dentist to correct a wide range of esthetic flaws and help you achieve the kind of beautiful smile you imagined. Now, the bad news: some patients may not make good candidates for the procedure. Today, we’re discussing a few issues that could interfere with qualifying for porcelain veneers. (more…)
An Unauthorized Biography of Plaque
Plaque. You hear about it in mouthwash commercials. Your dentist warns you about it at every checkup. Gum disease and tooth decay, the two most prevalent oral health problems in the U.S., are caused by plaque buildup. Today, we’re taking a closer look at the life and legacy of this sticky, yucky, bacteria-laden substance. (more…)
Dental Crown or Veneers: Which One Should You Choose?
Traditionally, dental crowns have been considered a restorative technique while porcelain veneers have fallen into the category of cosmetic dentistry. However, thanks to advances in dental materials and techniques, the line separating veneers and crowns is blurring. Use our simple guide to understand the ins and outs of these two restorations. (more…)
You Might be a Bruxer If . . .
You may not have heard the term “bruxism,” but you’ve probably heard of teeth grinding and jaw clenching, two related subconscious behaviors often caused by stress, anxiety, allergies, or TMJ disorder. Treating bruxism is a simple process involving a custom-fitted mouthguard designed by your dentist. However, many bruxers (people living with bruxism) don’t seek treatment because they’re unaware of the problem. Knowing the signs of bruxism and seeking the help of your family dentist can help alleviate chronic discomfort and even save your teeth from extensive damage. (more…)
How to Extend the Life of Your One Visit Teeth Whitening
You’ve decided to dramatically brighten your smile with the help of a one visit teeth whitening session with your dentist. You’re happy with the results and just can’t stop grinning at yourself in the mirror. But without proper care, your enamel will begin to accumulate miniscule stains that counteract the effects of even the most powerful teeth whitening treatment. Today, we’re discussing a few techniques for extending the brilliance of your smile. (more…)
The Smart Consumers’ Guide to Teeth Whitening
In a survey conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the majority of respondents said that if they could change anything about their smiles, they would make their teeth whiter. Bright, natural-looking teeth can make you appear younger, healthier, and more attractive, but how do you choose the right teeth whitening product for your needs? If you’re thinking about whitening your teeth, take a look at our helpful guide. (more…)
Three Myths (and Three Truths) about Porcelain Veneers
You’ve done your research, checked out some before and after pictures, talked to your dentist, and decided that porcelain veneers might be your best option for achieving the radiant smile you’ve always wanted. You share the good news with your friends on Facebook and then, suddenly, you’re inundated with well-intentioned advice telling you how you’re about to make the worst decision of your life. Unfortunately, for every dental procedure your dentist can provide, the internet abounds in urban legends and half-truths warning against those procedures. Let’s delve into some of the more pervasive myths about porcelain veneers and discuss whether they have any truth in them. (more…)
Doubts About Dentures? Mansfield Dentists Dispel Myths
The earliest known replacements for teeth date back to approximately 2500 B.C. when some ingenious would-be dentist thought to substitute animal teeth (usually from dogs or wolves) for those lost to tooth decay and infection. Throughout the years, people used anything and everything to restore missing teeth, including wood, ivory, and teeth extracted from human cadavers. Thankfully, dentists Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris offer more appealing options for full and partial dentures in Mansfield TX. To truly appreciate how dentures can benefit people, we need to dispel some common myths about partial and full dentures.
MYTH: “Everyone will know that I’m wearing dentures.”
Proper fit and care eliminate many of the tell-tale signs of wearing dentures. At Mansfield Dental Associates, we take great care in measuring, shaping, and creating your dentures to ensure a perfect fit. As a result, you will not experience slipping or clicking while you speak or eat. Some patients wonder whether dentures will show stains or cause bad breath. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris point out that preventing these problems is as simple as caring for your own teeth. A daily regimen of brushing and flossing supplemented with regular dental cleanings promotes a healthy, bright smile.
MYTH: “Wearing dentures will make it difficult to speak clearly.”
As we mentioned earlier, properly fitted dentures are comfortable and secure. Although it is natural to go through a period of adjustment, eventually you will find that you are not even aware of your dentures. You can speak with confidence knowing that your teeth are firmly in place. You may even discover a new love of conversation and public speaking. At the very least, you will no longer hesitate to speak your mind and engage others. If you notice that your dentures become uncomfortable or start to interfere with your speech, our dentists will examine your mouth and take measurements to make any necessary adjustments.
MYTH: “Wearing dentures means never going to the dentist.”
As with your own teeth, dentures are not immune to plaque, stains, and cracks or chips. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris recommend that you continue to schedule regular appointments for cleaning and preventive care. Doing so protects your dentures and safeguards against infections, damage, and bad breath. In some cases, you may need to have adjustments to your full or partial dentures to accommodate changes in your gum tissue or tooth alignment. If you follow these recommendations, your dentures will continue to maintain their attractiveness and effectiveness.
Obtaining dentures is both an important decision and an investment in your health and happiness. Contact our office at 817-473-6227 for an initial consultation, a second opinion, or to inquire about our cosmetic or restorative dentistry services. Our Patient Connect 365 services makes it easier than ever to track your scheduled appointments, which we provide for residents of Fort Worth, Arlington, Kennedale, Alvarado and nearby communities.
A Geography of Oral Cancer
Every year in the United States, more than 42,000 new cases of oral cancer are diagnosed. Of those cases, nearly 50% will not survive beyond five years of receiving a diagnosis because the cancer wasn’t discovered until it had reached an advanced stage. Key to survival is early detection, and key to early detection is an educated, well-informed public. Mansfield, TX dentists, Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris, provide a helpful map of the most common types of oral cancer and discuss the role of regular dental care in detection and survival. (more…)
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