Exciting New Advances in Cosmetic Dentistry

May 15, 2012 By Leave a Comment

New Advances in Cosmetic DentistryDue to advances in the technologies used in cosmetic dentistry, dental professionals are able to provide their patients with more options and better comfort than ever before. In addition to providing superior service and an improved patient experience, cosmetic dentists are working constantly to find new and improved ways to address common dental problems in a way that is conducive to a natural-looking smile.

Advances in the Field of Cosmetic Dentistry

As the number of technologically advanced cosmetic dentistry procedures increases, the patient base that utilizes them continues to grow. A variety of traditional dental procedures have been improved and can now be included in the category of cosmetic dentistry. Some new advances include the following:

  • Gum sculpting – Gum sculpting and grafting have substantially improved the way that cosmetic dentists reshape and reconstruct a patient’s smile. Even if a patient’s teeth are perfectly healthy and straight, unevenness in the gums can give the appearance of a crooked smile. Rather than using a scalpel to remove or graft gum tissues, many cosmetic dentists now use lasers to perform this procedure. This is far more comfortable than the traditional method and improves healing time.
  • Dental implants – Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanently placed prosthetic teeth that look and feel like natural teeth. Over the past few years, dental implants and the procedures performed to place them have undergone considerable improvement, offering patients the ability to reclaim their smiles and the use of their teeth.
  • Sedation techniques – Due to advances in sedation, patients who are generally anxious regarding dental procedures can rest assured in the knowledge that they will feel relaxed and comfortable throughout their visit. A variety of options are available (depending on the procedure being performed) and include oral, intravenous (IV), inhalation and intramuscular sedation.

How Can Cosmetic Dentistry Help You?

If you have ever been dissatisfied with your smile, chances are that you have considered having some type of cosmetic procedure to remedy the issues you have. These problems could include a single (but noticeably damaged) tooth or affect your entire set of natural teeth. Some of the most common dental problems that are addressed with cosmetic dentistry include the following:

  • Chipped or fractured teeth
  • Receding gum line
  • Gums that are more visible than desired when smiling
  • Missing teeth
  • Deep stains caused by tobacco use or acidic beverages (such as wine or coffee)
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Teeth that are worn down due to age or bruxism (grinding of the teeth)
  • Uneven or crooked teeth

In some cases, even simple fillings can be considered cosmetic. Today, patients are often given the option of having a filling applied that is the same color as their natural teeth (rather than a more noticeable silver or gold color). These aesthetically pleasing fillings are made of either porcelain or a composite material and are matched precisely with the patient’s natural tooth color. This type of filling is most often used for teeth that are closer to the front of the mouth and visible when the patient smiles.

Advances in the field of cosmetic dentistry continue to improve as technology progresses. This specialized type of technology is constantly growing and seeking out new ways to provide patients with a more comfortable and fulfilling dental experience.

No-Obligation Consultation

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN

Bismarck, ND office

Fargo, ND office

Grand Forks, ND office

Minot, ND office

 

 

Filed Under: Oral Surgery Tagged With: , ,

Oral Problems Could Put Women at Risk for Breast Cancer

May 8, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Oral Problems and Breast CancerIt is a commonly accepted observation that certain dental problems can cause illness in other areas of the body. Infections that begin in the mouth can easily travel through the blood stream via bacteria, often leading to problems that are otherwise avoidable. These health problems include respiratory issues, osteoporosis, complications during pregnancy, diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

New findings (published in “Breast Cancer Research & Treatment”) suggest that women “may be over 11 times more likely to suffer from breast cancer if they have missing teeth and gum disease.” These reports come directly from the renowned Karolinska Institute in Sweden and are the results of a study that has never been conducted before. Now that the link has been discovered, however, further research will certainly follow.

How Do Problems with Teeth and Gum Affect Breast Health?

Gum disease is caused by an overabundance and accumulation of bacteria in the plaque that forms on teeth and along the gum line. If the disease is allowed to continue without proper treatment, the portion of jaw bone that holds the teeth in place can begin to deteriorate and teeth grow progressively loose.

When teeth fall out as a result of gum disease, bacteria are then further allowed to delve into the gaps and empty spaces left by the missing teeth. This bacteria can travel throughout the blood stream, leading to severe inflammation in other areas of the body. The immune system can be weakened as well, providing a prime environment for cancerous cells to grow.

Raising Awareness of the Issue in the General Public

As these findings are currently under research, the majority of people have not yet heard of the potential link between poor oral health and the development of breast cancer. In fact, many people are as of yet unaware of the increased risk of other health issues when gum disease is present and left untreated. This is why it is so important to ensure that patients are educated regarding these types of studies, as well as the steps they can take to avoid the problem initially.

In order to prevent gum disease (and, ultimately, other related illnesses), patients are highly encouraged to follow a proper dental regimen daily and to visit their dentists regularly for routine cleanings. Because gum disease develops gradually and with minimal pain, many patients are unaware of the fact that they are affected until the disease has progressed considerably. Proven care and prevention include the following steps:

  • Brush your teeth for two minutes twice daily
  • Use a toothpaste that includes fluoride and displays the ADA (American Dental Association) seal
  • Floss between all teeth every time you brush (gum disease begins most frequently between teeth)
  • Visit your dentist every six months (or more often if directed)
  • Ask your dentist if you should use a mouthwash that fights gum disease

Keeping your mouth and teeth healthy is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health. Reducing your risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer and other diseases is as easy as taking proper care of your teeth and gums and scheduling regular appointments with your dentist.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN.

Bismarck, ND office

Fargo, ND office

Grand Forks, ND office

Minot, ND office

 

Filed Under: Oral Surgery Tagged With: ,

Choosing the Right Chemical Peel Procedure for You

May 1, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Choosing the Right Chemical Peel

Professionally applied chemical peels allow your skin’s natural beauty and brilliance to shine through. The type of chemical peel that is best for you is the peel that best suits your individual skin type. Your cosmetic surgeon will assess your skin and ask you about what kind of results you would ideally like to achieve through the use of a peel and help you decide which one is right for you.

Identifying Your Skin Type

The manner in which your skin will react to any given chemical peel depends highly on your skin type. The most common skin types are categorized as follows:

  • Normal: Normal skin feels healthy, clear and supple. It does not exhibit drastic reactions to cleansers or cosmetic products such as makeup. Under normal circumstances, this type of skin appears clean, oil-free and smooth.
  • Dry: Dry skin is also free of excess oil, but will often appear flaky and dry. Wrinkles form more easily in dry skin, so a moisturizer is a daily necessity to avoid tightness and fine lines.
  • Oily: Oily skin frequently takes on a greasy sheen and is prone to acne. It may also appear thick and rough, as pores are more enlarged due to excess production of sebum.
  • Combination: Combination skin is the most common skin type. Oil forms in the middle of the forehead, on the nose, the chin and the areas surrounding the nose, spreading out to the cheeks. Dry patches are present on the outer edges of the forehead, the middle of the cheeks and along the sides of the face near the eyes.
  • Sensitive: Sensitive skin is often tight, itchy and dry. It is easily irritated by cosmetic products, cleansers and extreme weather conditions. Reddish spots may appear after use of even mild soaps and special care must be taken to avoid inflammation during cleansing.

Different Types of Chemical Peels

Chemical peels vary in composition and level of penetration. Depending on the goal of the peel and your skin type, your doctor will make suggestions regarding the best type for you.

  • Superficial peels: Superficial peels are formulated to be gentle and non-irritating to skin of all types. This type of peel typically includes a mild, diluted form of a specific acid. Glycolic and salicylic acids are used to treat persistent acne by exfoliating the skin and killing the bacteria that causes blemishes. Lactic acid may be used to treat more sensitive skin to avoid irritation. Superficial peels are the most commonly used, as the risk of side effects and scarring is minimal.
  • Medium depth peels: If your skin has been noticeably damaged by the sun, a medium depth peel may be perfect for you. These peels also utilize acids, such as trichloroacetic acid, to aid in the removal of sun spots and fine lines caused by years of sun exposure. Side effects may occur following this type of peel, so it is important to follow all after-care instructions from your physician.
  • Deep peels: If your goal is to remove wrinkles, dark spots or more severe scars, a deeper chemical peel may be the best choice. Because this type of peel can cause mild burning, it is not recommended for patients with sensitive skin. When executed properly, a deep peel can restore a youthful radiance to even aged and damaged skin.

As with any medical procedure, it is always best to consult your experienced physician and cosmetic surgeon before making a decision regarding a chemical peel.

No-Obligation Consultation

For more information or to schedule a no-obligation consultation with our cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Andrew A. Afshar, call the Bismarck office of Face and Jaw Surgery Center at 701-258-7220. Dr. Afshar can discuss your cosmetic goals with you and recommend the most effective treatment plan to deliver the results you desire.

Bismarck, ND office

Minot, ND office

 

Filed Under: Facial Cosmetic Surgery Tagged With: ,

Proper Care of Your Dental Implants

April 24, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Prpoer Care of Dental Implants

If you are considering having dental implants placed soon or have already had this procedure done, you may be concerned with the process involved in taking care of your new teeth. While the home care required for dental implants is certainly very important, you should find that the routine does not differ very much from one focused on maintaining natural teeth.

Why Proper Care of Your Dental Implants is So Important

Just as with natural teeth, your dental implants can be affected by stains and the accumulation of plaque. When plaque builds up along the gum line and between teeth (or implants), an ideal breeding ground for bacteria is fostered within your mouth. Periodontal disease can affect individuals with implants just as easily as it can in people without them, so proper gum care is essential.

Preventative Maintenance: Taking Care of Your Implants to Avoid Gum Disease

In order to avoid harmful gum disease, bleeding, sensitivity and other associated conditions, it is imperative that you adhere to the following steps:

  • Educate yourself about correct brushing, flossing and rinsing techniques
  • Ask your dental professional for suggestions concerning the best types of tools and products for use on implants
  • Schedule regular visits with your dentist or hygienist to remove plaque and tartar buildup
  • Maintain a stringent oral care schedule at home between scheduled dental visits
  • If you have any questions regarding the care of your implants or present any symptoms of emerging gum problems (pain, bleeding, overly sensitive gums, etc.), talk to your dentist immediately to schedule a checkup

When you brush your implants, special care must be taken to remove all accumulated plaque and tartar deposits. The following tools and products have been shown to be effective in the proper cleaning and care of dental implants:

  • A soft toothbrush with bristles of varying height is ideal for reaching between implants and keeping gums healthy.
  • A medium weight floss (the appropriate thickness may very depending on the spacing of your natural teeth and implants) will help remove plaque and debris that can cause cavities and gum disease.
  • Specialty irrigation tools (recommended by your dentist if necessary) can help you rinse out places in your mouth and between teeth that are difficult to reach otherwise.
  • Mouthwashes made with essential oils (and usually free of alcohol) can further ensure that your implants continue to look like new for years to come.

How Your Dentist Can Help You Adapt to Life with Dental Implants

Though the majority of appropriate implant care and oral hygiene is conducted at home, you should always feel free to consult your dentist or hygienist regarding any questions or concerns you have. After your implant procedure is complete, your dental professional will recommend a routine visiting schedule based on the level of complexity of your implant procedure.

In addition to providing you with any information regarding special care, your dentist will gladly instruct you on the ways in which special tools and oral hygiene products should be used. With a combination of meticulous home care, professional cleaning and regularly scheduled dental exams, your dental implants can provide you with a renewed smile and years of comfortable use.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN.

Bismarck, ND office

Fargo, ND office

Grand Forks, ND office

Minot, ND office

 

Filed Under: Oral Surgery Tagged With: ,

Talking to Your Dentist About Anesthesia

April 17, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Types of AnesthesiaDentists use a variety of anesthesia products to help their patients feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible during dental procedures. Due to the incredible advances in dental technology, dentists are now able to provide medication for patients to lessen or completely eliminate pain and anxiety during treatment. Depending on the type of procedure you need, your dentist may be able to offer you more than one option for anesthesia.

What are the Different Types of Anesthesia?

The most common types of anesthesia used by dentists are:

  • Analgesics
  • Local anesthesia
  • Sedation and general anesthesia

Analgesics

Analgesics (available in narcotic and non-narcotic forms) are the most commonly prescribed medications for pain during and following dental procedures. Non-narcotic analgesics include ibuprofen, acetaminophen and aspirin. The narcotic category can include drugs made with codeine, hydrocodone, or oxycodone; and are most frequently prescribed for severe pain.

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthetics can be divided into two categories: those that are applied topically and those that are injected directly into the tissue. In a topical form, the anesthetic numbs the tissue to which it is applied, preventing pain on the surface. Often, a topical anesthetic may be applied before an injected anesthetic is used to lessen the pinch of the needle. The injected anesthetic typically lasts much longer than the topical one and works by blocking the nerves that sense pain and allow pain messages to be sent to the brain. This type of anesthesia is frequently used during the filling of cavities, root canals, treatment of periodontal disease, or tooth extraction (tooth pull).

Sedation and General Anesthesia

These types of anesthesia are most commonly administered when a patient is especially anxious prior to the procedure. Sedatives can help a patient relax considerably, allowing the dentist to work with ease and efficiency. Nitrous oxide and other light sedation techniques simply help to place the patient into a deeply relaxed state, whereas more complex sedation methods can put a person completely “under,” or to sleep. This ability to induce temporary unconsciousness is especially useful in cases in which a child, for example, is so anxious that the dentist is unable to perform the procedure.

How to Talk to Your Dentist

One of your dentist’s primary concerns is your comfort and contentment while he or she treats your teeth and gums. If you routinely experience anxiety concerning dental procedures or anesthesia, talk to your dentist before you get started. State your concerns clearly and plainly, as this will help you both with developing a rapport and a course of treatment that works best for you.

After you’ve talked about anesthesia, work out a system of communication in which you can use your hands while you are unable to talk. Knowing that you will be able to tell your dentist when you are in discomfort or need a break can greatly reduce general anxiety during treatment.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN.

Bismarck, ND office

Fargo, ND office

Grand Forks, ND office

Minot, ND office

Filed Under: Oral Surgery Tagged With: , ,

The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth

April 10, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Missing teeth can cause a number of problems for people of all ages. Though the most common complaint of patients who are missing teeth concerns appearance and self-esteem, a variety of other issues are directly related to tooth loss. If you are missing a tooth or numerous teeth, dental implants can help restore the vitality, health and beauty of your smile in a way that looks and feels natural.

Causes of Missing Teeth

Replace missing teeth with dental implantsThere are a variety of reasons that teeth may be lost. Some of the most common include:

  • Injury or trauma to the mouth or gums
  • Certain hereditary disorders
  • Tooth decay
  • Gum disease
  • Failed root canal treatment
  • Chemotherapy and radiation therapy

Why Is It So Important to Replace Missing Teeth?

  • General health – While missing teeth can certainly affect your sense of self-confidence, there are more pressing reasons to replace them. One of these reasons is related directly to your nutrition and overall health. Depending on the number and location of the missing teeth in your mouth, it may prove difficult to eat certain foods. The avoidance of specific foods can lead to malnutrition and recurrent illnesses. Thus, it is imperative to your general health to replace missing teeth with strong dental implants.
  • Oral health – It is also important to replace teeth in order to avoid gum and jaw deterioration and shifting of the surrounding teeth. When a tooth is lost due to gum disease, the exposed jaw bone can begin to dissolve within a matter of months. This can cause intense pain and further spread of the disease throughout the mouth. When teeth begin to shift around the empty space left by a missing tooth, gaps and uneven spacing become more apparent over time.
  • Off-bite problems – The gaps caused by missing teeth and the resulting shifting can lead to major problems with the way the jaws come together and close. This can lead to issues with chewing food, speech and further decay (due to food becoming lodged within the gaps).

What is the Best Way to Replace Missing Teeth?

When a patient presents with a dire need to replace missing teeth, options for resolving the issue are dependent upon that patient’s individual circumstances. Your dentist must evaluate your situation and determine the most effective treatment plan possible. However, a vast majority of patients today are finding that dental implants are the perfect solution for them.

Dental implants are largely preferable to bridges and dentures for many reasons. The advantages of having dental implants rather than other dental appliances include the following:

  • Implants look like your natural teeth and are customized to match your other teeth
  • Dentures can shift and irritate the gums, whereas implants are attached directly to the jaw
  • Implants can be cared for in the same way as the rest of your natural teeth
  • Implants are permanent and feel like natural teeth, whereas dentures must be removed

If you are missing one or more teeth, it is imperative to your general and oral health to have them replaced as soon as possible by your dental professional. The application of dental implants can transform your smile and your life.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN.

Bismarck, ND office

Fargo, ND office

Grand Forks, ND office

Minot, ND office

 

 

Filed Under: Oral Surgery Tagged With: ,

What is Involved in a Nose Job Procedure?

April 3, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Nose Job Image

Rhinoplasty, commonly called a “nose job” procedure, is a type of surgery used to change the shape and size of the nose. A patient may choose to have a nose job done to correct an anatomical anomaly, to allow for better breathing or to improve the appearance of their face in general. The cartilage, bone and connective tissues are surgically adjusted and reshaped while the patient is asleep under general anesthesia.

Finding Out if a Nose Job is Right for You

There are a variety of reasons that you may choose to undergo a nose job procedure. If any of the following apply to you, you may be a good candidate for rhinoplasty:

  • You feel that your nose is too thin or too broad
  • You have a large bridge or a bump on the bridge of your nose and would like it to be straighter
  • You feel that your nose is too large or too small in proportion to your face
  • You have suffered from an injury to your nose, such as a fracture, and wish to have it repaired
  • You have a deviated septum or another defect that affects your daily life
  • You are unhappy with any other aspect of your nose

Preparing for Your Nose Job Procedure

Prior to scheduling the date of your surgery, your cosmetic surgeon will ask you to come in for an evaluation. This session will give your doctor the chance to assess your nose and your face while giving you an opportunity to ask any questions you may have regarding the procedure. You will be given all of the information you need in order to form a realistic expectation of the surgery and the results.

The Surgical Process

The procedure is performed with deep sedation or general anesthesia. This mode of anesthesia provides maximum patient comfort.

First, minute incisions are created within the nostrils. Depending on the desired result of your procedure, your doctor may also create a small incision on the area of skin between the nostrils. The tissue beneath is then easily accessible to the surgeon for shaping and sculpting as is outlined in the surgical plan.

If your goal is to decrease the size of your nose, bone and cartilage may be trimmed or removed. Conversely, the nose can be made larger with the careful addition of specially shaped graft tissue. The entire sculpting process, which includes the shaping of all elements of the nose, generally takes approximately two to three hours. After the procedure, splints may be placed in order to protect and support the nose until it is completely healed.

Recovery Following a Nose Job Procedure

Though you will be able to go home on the same day as your procedure, you should expect to take some time away from work, school or other activities for a few days to a week. Bleeding, bruising and swelling are common and expected during this time, and it is important to get adequate rest while you heal so as not to exacerbate these effects. The majority of patients report being able to see the full results of their nose job procedure within eight to ten weeks.

No-Obligation Consultation

For more information or to schedule a no-obligation consultation with our cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Andrew A. Afshar, call the Bismarck office of Face and Jaw Surgery Center at 701-258-7220. Dr. Afshar can discuss your cosmetic goals with you and recommend the most effective treatment plan to deliver the results you desire.

Bismarck, ND office
Minot, ND office

 

Filed Under: Facial Cosmetic Surgery Tagged With: ,

Get a Straighter Smile Without Braces

March 27, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Straighten Teeth Without Braces

Your smile is one of the first things that people notice about you. It speaks to everyone you meet, telling them without words about the openness and confidence of your personality. In some cases, however, problems with teeth and gums can cause people to feel embarrassed of their smile, leading them to hide it rather than show it off.

Reasons That Patients Are Unsatisfied With Their Smiles

There are a variety of reasons that people seek out professional dental help in repairing their smiles. Following is a list of some of the most common of these:

  • Unevenly aligned teeth
  • Too much gum is visible when the patient smiles
  • Cracked or chipped teeth
  • Wide spaces or gaps between teeth
  • Teeth that are overcrowded
  • Missing teeth

Why Braces Might Not Be Right For You

At a time not too long ago, patients seeking a straighter set of teeth were left with only one option. Braces may be inconvenient and not as aesthetically appealing as some people would prefer.

What Can Be Done to Straighten Teeth Without Braces

If you are seeking out a way to straighten and perfect your smile, but the idea of having braces does not suit your preferences or lifestyle, your dentist can help with a number of different procedures.

  • Porcelain veneers – Porcelain veneers are custom-fit shells that attach directly to the surfaces of your teeth. Because these shells are so thin, they retain a natural appearance while transforming the entire look of your smile. Hide cracks, stains, gaps and misalignment with a simple and painless application process.
  • Tooth contouring – By carefully altering the shape and size of particular teeth, your dentist can easily remedy the appearance of crooked or damaged teeth. The teeth are sculpted and shaped to fit your smile perfectly. This procedure can quickly provide you with the straighter smile you’ve always wanted without braces. A special laminate can be applied as well to give teeth a more natural appearance.
  • Dental implants – If you are missing teeth or must have teeth pulled, the addition of dental implants may be the perfect option for you. When a tooth is missing, the teeth that surround it may become crooked as they drift in response to the empty space. An expertly inserted implant looks stunningly natural and helps to keep the rest of your teeth straight as well.

If your smile isn’t saying what you want it to say, there are ways to remedy this. Your family dentist will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that will be most beneficial in your particular situation.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN.

Bismarck, ND office

Fargo, ND office

Grand Forks, ND office

Minot, ND office

 

Filed Under: Oral Surgery Tagged With: , ,

Dry Socket: Description, Treatments and Prevention

March 20, 2012 By Leave a Comment

What is Dry Socket?

dry socket after tooth extraction

After a tooth is extracted, the body’s natural defense system begins the process of forming a clot at the site in order to start healing. However, if this clot is dislodged before the wound has completely healed, the condition known as dry socket ensues, causing intense pain and sensitivity.

Dry socket is a painful dental complication that follows the extraction of a permanent tooth. The pain arises from the loss of a protective blood clot at the site of the extraction, which allows the bone and nerves there to be exposed to air, food and liquids. Pain is most frequently noticed within one to three days following the initial surgery.

Symptoms of Dry Socket

While it is normal to experience some tenderness and pain following an extraction, patients with the following symptoms are advised to consult their oral surgeons immediately to rule out potential complications:

  • Intense pain at the extraction site within a few days of surgery
  • Visibly exposed bone at the extraction site
  • Visible loss of the blood clot at the  extraction site
  • Unusually bad breath
  • Foul taste in the mouth
  • Swelling of the lymph nodes in the jaw and surrounding neck area

Causes and Risk Factors Associated with Dry Socket

The exact cause of this condition is still in a state of research, though the following have been shown to contribute to dry socket in a substantial number of cases:

  • Trauma to bone and tissue surrounding the extraction site
  • Minute fragments of tooth or bone that remain in the wound, preventing it from healing properly
  • Contamination of the socket by bacteria or other external factors

Risk factors include the following:

  • A previous case of dry socket
  • Inadequate after-care at home
  • Gingivitis or other gum infection
  • Smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco

Treatment of Dry Socket

The treatments of dry socket are primarily focused on reducing pain and the likelihood of contamination in the area so that the wound can continue to heal naturally. These treatments include:

  • The dentist will flush out the socket to free it of any remaining debris and then pack it with medicated dressings. This process will assist in pain relief and prevent further infection.
  • Because many cases of dry socket do not react to over-the-counter pain remedies, the dentist will often recommend prescription medication to alleviate pain while the wound heals.
  • Self-care at home may include flushing of the socket with salt water or another prescription solution multiple times per day.

Prevention of Dry Socket

After an extraction, patients are given specific after-care instructions to prevent complications such as dry socket. These include:

  • Getting plenty of rest following the surgery
  • Drinking plenty of water to remain properly hydrated
  • Avoiding hot, alcoholic or caffeinated beverages for the first 24 hours following extraction
  • Abstaining from smoking or drinking from a straw, as this suction may interrupt clotting
  • Eating only soft foods

The most effective way to prevent dry socket is to adhere exactly to the specific instructions given by a dentist or oral surgeon following an extraction.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN.

Bismarck, ND office

Fargo, ND office

Grand Forks, ND office

Minot, ND office

Filed Under: Oral Surgery Tagged With: ,

What is Bruxism and How is it Treated?

March 13, 2012 By Leave a Comment

What is Bruxism?

Bruxism is a dental and medical condition that involves excessive grinding or clenching of the teeth. Individuals who suffer from bruxism clench their teeth unconsciously throughout the day and may grind them together at night (referred to as sleep bruxism).

Certain instances of bruxism (for example, those cases that do not affect the daily life of the individual in question) may not require special treatment. However, serious cases can potentially result in disorders of the jaw, migraine headaches, damage to teeth and additional dental problems. It is important to be aware of the symptoms associated with bruxism in order to avoid long-term damage and other health issues. The most effective way to prevent lasting damage associated with this condition is to visit a dentist regularly.

Symptoms of Bruxism

Signs that bruxism may be a problem include:

  • Grinding or clenching of the teeth during the night (usually a partner notices this first)
  • Flattened, fractured or chipped teeth
  • Noticeable sensitivity in teeth and gums
  • A generally painful sensation in the jaws
  • Unusual wear to tooth enamel
  • Persistent headaches and pain in the jaw area
  • Pain along the outer edges of the tongue (caused by inadvertent chewing) or indentations in the same area

Causes of Bruxism

While the cause of bruxism is not completely understood, there are a few factors that can be correlated with the condition. These factors include:

  • Alignment issues between upper and lower teeth (referred to as malocclusion)
  • Side effect of certain prescription medications (such as antidepressants)
  • Suppression of extreme frustration, stress or anger
  • Anxiety disorders or general unresolved tension
  • An external psychiatric or physiological disorders (including Parkinson’s Disease)

Complications Associated with Bruxism

In the majority of cases, this condition does not result in severe complications. However, serious bruxism cases can lead to the following:

  • Severe damage to the teeth and jaw (which may require tooth repair or jaw surgery)
  • Chronic headaches and jaw or facial pain
  • TMJ disorders

Treatments for Bruxism

There exist a variety of treatments for bruxism. These treatments vary depending on age, the health of a patient’s teeth and the severity of the case itself. These treatments may include:

  • A protective mouth guard (to be worn as directed by the treating dentist)
  • Other types of head or mouth gear, including dental splints
  • Management of stress and anxiety
  • Surgery (including the use of overlays or crowns on teeth or jaw surgery) to reconstruct or correct the way in which teeth come together

The best way to prevent and treat bruxism is to schedule regular appointments with a qualified dental professional. Routine x-rays and exams can detect symptoms early in order to avoid long-term damage caused by bruxism.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN.

Bismarck, ND office

Fargo, ND office

Grand Forks, ND office

Minot, ND office

Filed Under: Oral Surgery Tagged With: ,
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