Monday, April 30, 2012

Crowns for Damaged, Decayed or Broken Teeth



Our teeth can become damaged by physical trauma, lack of hygiene and even our overall physical health. When a tooth becomes too damaged or decayed to be restored by fillings, crowns are usually prescribed.

Unlike veneers, which only cover the visible portion of a tooth, crowns are used to cover (or, in some instances, replace) an entire tooth. Most people who have had root canals will need a crown for the affected tooth. Others who may need crowns are people who have badly chipped or broken teeth due to physical trauma, or people who have neglected their dental hygiene to the point where they are losing their teeth.

Fortunately, crowns can greatly improve the health and appearance of a person's smile - but they do require care and upkeep. We'll go over everything you need to know about your dental crowns, but it is up to you to continue with proper care.

Call us today to schedule your consultation: 919-782-0548

Monday, April 23, 2012

Need Cavity Fillings in Raleigh NC?



Cavities are small holes or depressions in a tooth caused by decay. Tooth decay can affect both the enamel of a tooth (the first, outer layer) and the dentin (the second, inner layer), making it pretty dangerous to your dental health if left untreated.

In order to treat a cavity, your dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the space with one of several types of materials. Cavity fillings can be created from gold, porcelain, silver amalgam, or composite resin. Each material has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Modernly, porcelain and tooth-colored composite materials are the preferred materials, as they mimic the look and texture of natural teeth.

Getting a cavity filled may be a commonly dreaded procedure, but it is relatively easy on the patient. Before beginning the filling procedure, patients are given a numbing local anesthetic to the affected area. You may feel some pressure or slight discomfort from the procedure, but you shouldn't feel any pain. Afterward, some soreness or sensitivity could occur, but every individual is different - we'll talk to you personally about what you can expect during and after your visit.

Remember, cavities aren't fun, they can be avoided by maintaining a proactive dental hygiene regimen and keeping regularly scheduled dental check-ups.

If you're a Raleigh resident who has questions or concerns about tooth fillings, contact us today and we will be happy to give you additional information: 919-782-0548 

Monday, April 16, 2012

Tips for Great Dental Hygiene



Dr. Simon Melcher and his staff at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh NC promote healthy dental hygiene for their patients of all ages.  The basis for this hygiene is twice-daily brushing and flossing using proper techniques.  Here are some tips for great dental hygiene and even better trips to the dentist:
  • Brush two times a day using fluoride toothpaste
  • Hold the brush at a slight angle towards the gums when brushing along the gum line
  • Brush the tongue and roof of your mouth
  • Replace worn toothbrushes often
  • In addition to brushing, be sure to clean between the teeth daily using floss
  • Floss along each side of every tooth to clean between teeth and under the gumline
  • Eat a balanced diet and limit between meal snacks
  • Avoid hard or chewy sugary candies that linger in the mouth and may get stuck in the teeth
  • Be sure to tell your dentist if something in your mouth does not look or feel right
We invite you to consult with Dr. Melcher to learn about recommended products to get the most out of your daily dental hygiene.  He and his staff can also provide customized cleanings and treatments on the basis of your periodontal (gums and bone) health.

Contact Implant and General Dentistry, your Dentists in Raleigh NC, today: 919-782-0548.

Monday, April 9, 2012

Dental Implants in Raleigh NC



Dental implants are a common treatment when there is a need for full tooth replacement due to periodontal disease, injury, or other reasons.  Implants are biocompatible posts that replace the roots of your missing teeth. They are physically and biologically designed to attach to your jaw bone and become the foundation for a natural looking restoration.

Dental implants differ from traditional bridgework because implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support.  Implants are considered one of the most conservative treatments for tooth replacement and provide excellent stability and strength resulting in a new tooth or teeth that will look and feel natural.

Dr. Simon Melcher with Implant and General Dentistry is an expert in tooth replacement treatments using dental implants.  He has years of knowledge and experience with this and other dental treatments.  Give his office a call to request a consultation and appointment for any of your dental needs - from teeth cleaning or whitening to  root canal treatment or implants: (919) 782-0548.

Monday, April 2, 2012

Is Your Pain Caused By TMJ?



Pain in your face, jaw, neck, and shoulders. Headaches. Bite problems. Popping sounds when opening and closing your mouth. Difficulty opening the mouth. All of these symptoms which can range from discomforting to debilitating can be caused by TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. The good news is that TMJ is treatable, and at Implant & General Dentistry we have many treatment options available.

What is TMJ?

TMJ is acute or chronic inflammation of the joint connecting the lower jaw and the skull. Some of the potential causes include an injury to the muscles in the jaw, head, or neck; teeth grinding or other action exerting a great deal of pressure on the joint (sometimes attributed to stress); or arthritis in the joint.

TMJ Treatments

We have several options when it comes to treating TMJ. These range from noninvasive approaches such as bite splints and bite guards, to medication, to more extensive procedures such as restorative dentistry or adjusting the bite. The recommended course of action will depend on the severity of the disorder and the cause.

To learn more or to schedule an appointment call Implant and General Dentistry today at 919-782-0548.