Root Canals Save Teeth

When it comes to preserving your natural teeth, prevention is always better than treatment. However, when the nerve of a tooth becomes inflamed or infected, it starts to produce pain in that specific area. This pain often radiates, sometimes contributing to headaches and overall uneasiness. When a pain like this is present, the first thing recommended is to see a dental provider.

A root canal is a procedure that was created to remove the inflamed and infected nerve from the inside of a tooth. After the nerve is removed, the inside of the tooth is thoroughly disinfected and cleaned. Not wanting to leave your tooth hollow, the dentist then fills up the tooth and seals it with a special rubbery material. Think of a led pencil, when you have a broken led you replace it with a new one. The process is then completed with the installation of a crown that allows the patient to safely chew and bite on the tooth without further complications. Most patients find this procedure a bit intimidating, so to ease the patient’s nerves, the entire procedure is performed with anesthesia. One of the most beneficial parts of this procedure is that it requires no additional down time. This specific treatment is the method dentists prefer when trying to avoid unnecessary tooth extractions. With the help of modern technologies and anesthesia, root canals have become a majority pain-free and a very common procedure.

Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction

Contrary to popular beliefs, most patients are unaware of the importance of saving their natural teeth. The idea of simply removing the infected tooth seems less frustrating, however, the additional procedures needed post the extraction of the infected teeth, labels a root canal as the more financially desired alternative. Nonetheless, there often comes a time when it is recommended for a patient to consider extracting a tooth, but with a root canal treatment, patients can preserve their natural teeth for as long as possible. Teeth preservation is not the only benefit of a root canal, cleaning out the infected nerve also alleviates pain and reduces inflammation. Antibiotics are also prescribed as the patient goes back to life as usual.

The main reason root canals are the procedure of choice when trying to treat an infection is that tooth loss often requires that a patient undergoes additional restorative procedures with the help of implants or bridges. If gone neglected, the absence of a tooth that was extracted may make it harder for a person to chew or speak clearly. A simple consultation with one of our dentists provides us an opportunity to better assess the situation. However, the goal will always be to preserve your natural teeth if possible before resorting to tooth extraction and other prosthetic options.

The Round Up

Several major health issues in the body originate from dental issues, so it is important for patients to not delay getting a root canal treatment for an infected tooth. If you have an infected nerve, the quickest, most convenient, and mostly pain free option, that allows you to fix the problem permanently is to get a root canal. Before you decide against going through with a root canal treatment, schedule an appointment with one of our specialists for a more comprehensive recommendation. Chances are, if you have an infection in the nerve of your tooth, the most hassle-free way to alleviate your pain and save your natural tooth is to get a root canal performed as soon as possible. Thankfully, we have specialists ready and able to assist you with that.

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

This April, we stand in observance of the 22nd Annual Oral Cancer Awareness Month. With the right information within our reach, we can all take care of ourselves and our loved ones in the hopes of preventing oral cancer.

Oral cancer falls within a group known as head and neck cancers. This type of cancer develops in most parts of the mouth, including lips, tongue, inner cheek, palate, and throat. While reports state that one person dies from oral cancer every hour, if detected early, the patient can be treated with a greater chance of recovery and survival.

Read on to learn more about oral cancer, the risk factors involved, and how crucial early detection is to patients.

What are the symptoms of oral cancer?

The most common symptoms of oral cancer can be easily overlooked. Typically, a cut inside your mouth won’t be considered life-threatening in any way. That’s just one more reason why seeing your dentist regularly is crucial, not only for your oral health, but also your overall physical wellbeing.

It’s worth noting that some of these symptoms may seem fairly commonplace. The key difference is when they last longer than usual, typically 2 weeks or more. 

The following are part of a longer list of symptoms that may be indicative of a potential health issue.

• Sores inside your mouth or on your lips
• Numbness or pain inside the mouth
• Difficulty speaking and swallowing
• Non-stop coughing
• Jaw swelling

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s imperative that you see a professional as soon as possible. As always, we urge you to seek the medical assessment of your dentist to get the full picture and figure out the best course of action for your particular case.

Risk Factors

Patients who consume tobacco products, either by smoking (cigarettes, cigars, pipes) or chewing them, are at risk to develop some kind of oral cancer. Studies have shown that men are twice as likely to get it. Also, patients who have HPV (human papillomavirus) are more susceptible to an oral cancer diagnosis.

If you have a family history of oral cancer, you may be at greater risk because it’s in your genetic makeup. Furthermore, not maintaining good oral hygiene will complicate matters and make you more vulnerable.

Frequent facial exposure to the sun, poor nutrition, and a weak immunological system are also risk factors in regard to oral cancer.

The Importance of Early Detection

Part of the efforts put forth during Oral Cancer Awareness Month is making sure that the general public knows the importance of early detection. 

By finding oral cancer early, doctors can provide proper treatment to ensure a higher chance of beating this unforgiving disease. That’s why we’re encouraging everyone, along with The Oral Cancer Foundation, to visit their dentist for regular check-ups that may help spot symptoms of oral cancer early.

Studies have shown that more than half the cases of oral cancer in the United States are detected at advanced stages. Don’t let that happen to you.

Remember, we’re here to help. Reach out today and let’s make prevention our goal.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit 3cdentalgroup.com or write to us at smedia@3CDentalgroup.com.

Porcelain Veneers, A Brief Guide

A Brief Guide to Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are essentially thin shells of ceramic. To improve your smile, they bond directly onto the front surfaces of your teeth. 

Over the years, veneers have become more sought after by patients due to their simple and versatile nature. They’re an excellent way to conceal gaps or any chipped teeth, resulting in a natural-looking smile you’ll love. 

Placing custom veneers upon your teeth to improve your smile requires a high degree of technical skill. With proper attention to cosmetic detail, each case is handled individually to match and enhance the characteristics of each patient’s smile.

Read on to find out more about porcelain veneers and how they can improve the appearance of your teeth today.

Will my veneers look like real teeth?

Veneers are made of porcelain and are designed to closely resemble your natural teeth’s enamel. With great care, each piece of porcelain is made to resemble the color shade and shape of your teeth. 

As a result, once the thin shells of ceramic are placed upon your teeth, your smile will look as natural as possible. Of course, you will see a considerable improvement in appearance, but your teeth will look as your own and your smile will look healthy and radiant.

What Happens Before Veneers

Every patient must come in to undergo an evaluation before porcelain veneers may be applied to their teeth. To be able to proceed, you must have healthy teeth and gums. Should your dentist find any decay or unhealthy gums, these issues must be tended to before veneers are bonded to your teeth.

Make sure to speak to your dentist about any doubts you may have regarding porcelain veneers. It’s essential to manage your expectations and know how the process will play out. Typically, you may need to come in for a couple of visits, but again, each case is different and will be handled according to your particular needs. 

Caring For Your Veneers

After getting your veneers, it is of utmost importance to follow all the instructions detailed by your dentist. While they are bonded onto your teeth with strong adhesive, you still need to properly care for your veneers.

Concerning aftercare, make sure to maintain healthy habits, brushing at least twice a day and using mouthwash and dental floss. Also, try not to chew on hard objects. Veneers are just as strong as your teeth, but just like natural teeth, they can also break if submitted to unnecessary strain.

The better you care for your veneers, the better they will look and the longer they will last. With proper care, your veneers — made from the highest quality porcelains available — will last well over a decade.

Remember, porcelain veneers will make your smile shine brightly by enhancing your teeth’s appearance while still looking natural. To learn more and find out if porcelain veneers are a good option for you, reach out today.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit 3cdentalgroup.com or write to us at smedia@3CDentalgroup.com.

Sedation Dentistry

Sedation Dentistry: Why There’s No Need for Discomfort at the Dentist

When dentists administer sedatives to their patients to make dental care procedures painless, the practice is called sedation dentistry. This type of sedation helps patients who may experience fear or anxiety regarding dental procedures.

Sedation dentistry, also referred to as sleep dentistry, can be practiced by administering oral medications, inhalation agents, or given intravenously. Depending on the procedure, you may fall asleep and wake afterward with no recollection of the process. This may be viewed as a source of comfort for patients who have an aversion to any type of dental procedure.

Read on to find out more about sedation dentistry and how it can aid you in undergoing dental procedures with the least amount of discomfort.

Different Types of Sedation Dentistry

Having anxiety about visiting the dentist can keep patients from undergoing dental procedures that have the potential to change their lives. Don’t let fear stand in the way of receiving the dental care you need and deserve. With any of the following types of sedation dentistry, you can undergo any dental procedure with ease, allowing you to experience excellent dental care without any obstacles.

• Oral Sedation: Works well for mild anxiety and shorter appointments. You take a small pill before the treatment, putting you in a relaxed state. While you remain awake and responsive during the procedure, you won’t remember much about your visit. The sedative medication that will be administered is FDA-approved for safety.

• Nitrous Oxide: More commonly known as “laughing gas”, this sedative reduces anxiety and helps you relax. Before your treatment, you breathe in odorless gas mixed with oxygen with the help of a nose mask. Once the procedure is complete, you will feel normal and may even operate a vehicle.

• IV Sedation: Before treatment, calming medications are administered through an IV. During the procedure, you will be responsive but unaware. You won’t feel any pain nor have any memory.

Are You a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

If you suffer from any kind of dental phobia, sedation dentistry can help you get the care you need. Other conditions may also qualify you for sedation, but this needs to be determined by your dentist.

By considering your current situation and your medical history, your dentist will work out the appropriate course of action for you. The goal is to provide you with worry-free care.

Aftercare

Depending on the dental procedure, there may be certain precautions to take after your treatment. In the case of tooth extractions, some measures must be observed to heal properly. Speak to your dentist about aftercare and follow all instructions.

Remember, with the help of sedation dentistry, the best dental care can be put within your reach with comfort and convenience. Reach out today to learn more and find out if you qualify for this treatment.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit 3cdentalgroup.com or write to us at info@3CDentalgroup.com.

Dental Sealants Can Benefit Your Oral Health

Dental Sealants – How They Can Benefit Your Oral Health

Dental sealants are tooth-colored acrylic coating, painted onto the surface of your teeth. This procedure is designed to seal any deep grooves in your teeth while functioning as a barrier that protects enamel from accumulated plaque, acids, and any kind of debris that may cause cavities and/or tooth decay. 

Dental sealants protect your teeth’s biting surfaces from food particles that brushing and flossing simply cannot reach. Sealants can last several years, as they are designed to hold up well under the strain of normal chewing. Years after your procedure, if deemed necessary by your dentist, reapplication may be performed to ensure continued protection.

Read on to find out more about dental sealants and how they can help you maintain your oral health.

The Advantages of Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are highly effective in preventing decay on the biting surfaces of your chewing teeth. When brushing your back teeth, it’s hard to clean those areas thoroughly. That’s where dental sealants come in, providing an extra layer of protection against cavities or the need for root canals or crowns. By covering the fissures and grooves in your teeth, dental sealants can protect your enamel and ensure your smile will remain healthy for years to come.

Dental sealants require a non-invasive procedure with zero pain. Furthermore, they are easy to apply and require only a few minutes to complete the process. After the procedure, your newly sealed teeth will enjoy the benefit of being protected against plaque and potentially harmful foods.

Prevention Is Key

It simply cannot be stressed enough: when it comes to your oral health, prevention is paramount. That’s why it’s better to avoid dental complications than to have to remedy them. With that in mind, dental sealants offer a strong measure of prevention. Even teeth that have not been impacted by tooth decay and have no fillings can still benefit from the protection of dental sealants.

That’s why children and other young patients may benefit greatly from sealants, in order to prevent any kind of slow erosion that could result in bigger complications as they grow into adulthood. Getting sealants while young far outweighs the inconvenience of having to deal with cavities and tooth decay in later years. Again, prevention is key and dental sealants are a strong ally in these efforts.

What Happens After Your Dental Sealant Procedure

After undergoing a dental sealant procedure, it’s usually recommended that you avoid hard foods for the remainder of the day. It’s perfectly normal for your bite to feel different at first while your teeth adjust to the layer of protection and any excess material is worn off.

Even though a dental sealant provides extra protection, that is no reason to discontinue smart oral health practices, including visiting your dentist for routine check-ups. By keeping a close eye on your sealants, your dentist can determine if they need to be replaced or repaired and act accordingly.

Remember, dental sealants help you prevent complications while maintaining dental hygiene and contributing to your overall health. Find out more today.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit 3cdentalgroup.com or write to us at info@3CDentalgroup.com.

A Brief Guide To Dental Implants

Dental Implants – A Brief Guide

Dental implant surgery allows patients to have their defective or missing teeth replaced with artificial teeth that look, feel, and function just like natural ones.

Dental implants are designed to replace your teeth’s natural roots. Essentially, they are titanium posts that resemble small screws. After they are attached to your jaw, they begin to naturally fuse with your bone structure. This allows the implants to remain steady and not cause any damage to your jaw bone.

On some occasions, if your bone structure is not strong enough to hold the implants, bone grafts are employed to repair any damage. This process ensures that the implants will remain in place and aid the function of your artificial teeth when you eat, speak, and breathe. And while dental implants, like any other medical procedure, do have some risks — these are rare.

Read on to learn all the details concerning dental implants and the required process for this treatment.

The Procedure

Dental implant surgery is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can undergo it without hospitalization. It’s carried out in stages, requiring time in between for appropriate healing. The first step is to remove, if necessary, any damaged or defective teeth. This is followed by conditioning the jaw bone for the implant. As stated above, if the bone structure is not healthy enough, grafts will be necessary.

Next comes the implant. After allowing time for the bone and the implant to fuse together, an abutment is placed on the implant. This is an essential piece that will connect the artificial tooth (or crown) to the implant.

While the entirety of the process can take several months, it is necessary to allow time for the body to heal before taking each successive step. This is indispensable in order for the implants to be successful and function as intended.

What Happens After Dental Implants?

After the entire procedure is completed, it’s normal to experience some discomfort or swelling typically associated with all dental treatments. A slight adjustment in diet may be required, so there is less strain put on your new implants.

Each case is different, however. That’s why It’s important to follow the instructions of your dental care professional and take any necessary medications such as painkillers and antibiotics. With proper care, you will eventually carry on as you would with natural teeth.

Dental Implant Aftercare

Practicing proper dental hygiene is crucial, especially after dental implants. Brush your new teeth and use mouthwash no less than two times a day. Just as it’s essential to care for your natural teeth, caring for your artificial teeth is no less important.

Remember to visit your dentist regularly to maintain your oral health. With biannual visits, any potential complications may be spotted early and treated. Only by working together with your dentist will you achieve healthy and strong teeth that will last you a lifetime.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit 3cdentalgroup.com or write to us at info@3CDentalgroup.com.

Root Canals Don’t Have To Be A Pain

Root Canals Don’t Have To Be A Pain

Root canals are very common. According to studies, this dental procedure is performed over 14 million times a year. The procedure is simple, effective, and considered a viable option to preserve your natural teeth without having to resort to dental implants.

At the center of every tooth is a collection of blood vessels that help build and maintain it, called pulp. If the pulp is infected, you may have to undergo a root canal. These infections can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks, among others. Some of the symptoms you may experience are swelling, sensitivity to temperature, or pain in the tooth and the surrounding gums. 

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule an appointment to have your tooth looked at immediately. Dental pain can be aggravating, but failure to act will only make it worse.

Read on to find out how to take care of your situation with lots of efficiency and the least amount of pain.

The Process

A root canal is a non-surgical procedure in which the diseased pulp and the nerve are removed,  and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. To restore the tooth to full function, a crown is usually placed on it as a form of restoration.

The procedure may be carried out in as little as one visit and typically involves local anesthesia to eliminate any form of discomfort. If patients are anxious, laughing gas or other sedation methods can be made available during the procedure. You will be able to operate a vehicle after your procedure if need be. In a short amount of time, you should be able to return to your normal routine.

Why Are Root Canals Necessary?

The infected pulp at the root of the problem can be such that it seeps into your bloodstream. This may in turn cause further health complications that can be easily avoided. Furthermore, a tooth that is swollen and causes a great amount of pain is not operating properly. That’s why your dentist should examine you at once. Suffering through dental pain and risking other health problems is simply not worth the trouble. 

Proper Aftercare

After your root canal is completed, make sure to follow all the instructions put forth by your dentist. Keep an eye on any potential swelling and watch what you eat so as to not harm the sensitive area where the procedure was carried out.

Root canal treatment is only half the job to ensure your functional oral health gets back to normal.  We’ll also restore the tooth to match its original shape and color.

While complications are rare, we are ready and willing to provide you with all the necessary aftercare and respond to any issues that may arise. As always, we are committed to offering you the best dental care available.

If you need us, just reach out today!

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit 3cdentalgroup.com or write to us at info@3CDentalgroup.com.

Dental Care Membership Plan

Join Our Membership Plan for the Best Dental Care Available Today

Dental care is often delayed, or even ignored altogether, because of two main reasons: fear and finances. These two obstacles can make all the difference in whether or not a patient seeks proper care for dental ailments that will only worsen over time, leading to more complicated matters like teeth decay and loss. 

Fearing dental appointments is more commonplace than one might think, but the fact remains that with the latest advances in medicine, dentists can make patients feel more comfortable by ensuring their visit is as painless as possible. And as far as finances are concerned, our Membership Plan is designed to help all our patients get the dental care they need without having to pay for things they don’t.

We are working hard to address both of these obstacles to provide our patients with the quality care, comfort, and convenience they deserve.

A Real Solution to Your Dental Issues

Many patients who have medical insurance with dental coverage usually pay large sums of money in premiums. The biggest drawback is that you can end up paying for insurance benefits you never use.

Lots of patients just need their dental insurance for their biannual check-up and cleaning. With the absence of any major dental issues, paying top-dollar insurance premiums doesn’t make sense. Other patients neglect to schedule these crucial appointments because their busy lifestyles keep visits to the dentist at the bottom of their list of priorities. This is also a cause of grave concern, because small issues that could be detected early may take a turn for the worse.

When these minor issues turn into major ones, some patients fear that their insurance may not cover the cost of treatment and they’ll have to pay a large, out-of-pocket sum to get the dental care they need. We’re well aware of all these issues. That’s why we’ve put together a plan that’s designed to address these concerns and provide every one of our patients with the solutions they deserve.

What’s Included With Our Membership Plan 

With our Membership Plan, patients will have options to treat their dental issues in a convenient manner. Dental care doesn’t have to be complicated. That’s why our Membership Plan offers the following benefits:

• Patients do not have to rely on benefit limits put forth by insurance companies. 
• Dental services can be rendered at a discount, regardless of the total cost.
• Patients pay less ($17/month for an individual) for two check-up visits, cleanings, and more — for the entire year.
• No waiting period on services.
• No deductibles for the services rendered.
• Full transparency in regard to cost and care, as there is no third party between doctor and patient.

The Bottom Line

Our Membership Plan is another part of our commitment to providing you with comfort, care, and convenience. You deserve the best medical attention available without having to sacrifice your peace of mind or your bank account. “Patient care and health is of the utmost importance,” says Dr. Dhaval Thakkar. “Membership plans are becoming common in dental offices as patients and providers are feeling that their care should not be dictated by what the insurance company will cover,” he added.

If you’d like to learn more about our Membership Plan, do not hesitate to reach out. We’re more than happy to provide you with all the information you’ll need to take this crucial step in your dental care. 

Get in touch today!

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit 3cdentalgroup.com or write to us at info@3CDentalgroup.com.

Best Brushing Practices for Healthier Teeth

Just brushing your teeth is not enough. You need to brush them no less than twice a day and, most importantly, you need to brush them properly. And there are other things to take into consideration as well, from the toothbrush you use and the toothpaste to the technique you employ and how much force you apply with your brush. Brushing your teeth the right way can preserve your enamel and maintain the health of your gums — two crucial factors.

Even if your teeth look and feel great, there’s no reason to ever lower your guard when it comes to brushing. So, let’s take a look at the habits you can improve to maintain your overall dental health and keep that great smile for a lifetime.

What’s The Best Toothbrush For You?

Nowadays, any drug store carries a wide array of toothbrushes, ranging from manual to electric, so there’s plenty to choose from. First off, always look for the American Dental Association’s seal of approval on any toothbrush you consider purchasing. This means they are safe, efficient, and meet the quality standards put forth by the ADA.

One of the biggest concerns to keep in mind when brushing your teeth is the amount of pressure applied to the brush. If you’re too forceful, you can inflict damage on both your teeth and your gums. This can affect your teeth’s enamel and push back your gums to the point where the roots may become more vulnerable over time.

Whether you use a manual or an electric toothbrush, a good way of knowing if you’re applying too much force is as follows: when you replace your brush every 2 to 3 months, the bristles should not be overly bent. If they’re not straight by the time you have to replace the brush or head, that’s a clear indication that you’re being far too vigorous with your brushing and possibly harming yourself.

For most people, a soft toothbrush is the best option. Softer bristles will go a long way to ensuring that your teeth and gums are not mistreated during brushing. Still, the best way to determine what toothbrush will benefit you is to consult with your dentist.

A Quick Word On Toothpaste

Using an abrasive toothpaste will help remove any stains from your teeth, but it can also have an impact on your enamel. It’s a matter of finding a balance according to your needs. If you’re a smoker and consume large amounts of coffee or wine, an abrasive toothpaste can help keep your teeth looking whiter. If you don’t consume any of these, a toothpaste that’s less abrasive might be ideal.

Let’s Figure Out Teeth Brushing Together

Even with all this information, you might still have doubts. And that’s perfectly fine! For the best course of action, you should always defer to your dentist so you can plan your dental care together. When you come in for check-ups, ask us any and all questions regarding the best toothbrush and toothpaste for your particular needs.

As always, we are committed to providing you with comfort, care, and convenience. Just get in touch today, and let’s schedule your next visit. By getting proper dental care, your teeth will look and feel great.

See you soon!

To schedule an appointment, please visit 3cdentalgroup.com or write to us at info@3CDentalgroup.com.