Blog | Dr Dalesandro DMD Dentistry in Tucson, Arizona

Can gum disease cause cancer?

Written by drdalesandro on May 14, 2020. Posted in Teeth Problems.

TLDR: Gum disease has been proven to increase the risk of developing cancer in elderly women and older individuals. There are several treatments available for gum disease however it’s best to practice routine oral care so that you can avoid having to deal with it at all. Some of the most common signs of gum disease include bad breath and bleeding gums.

Gum disease is a very serious condition that affects the mouth and many people don’t take it seriously enough until it’s too late. Gum disease is categorized as a serious infection that can degrade the integrity of your jawbone when not taken care of. Gum disease is a very serious disease however it is also very preventable which is good news if you find yourself dealing with this problem.

Gum disease is oftentimes caused by a simple lack of basic oral hygiene practices and care. In severe cases where gum disease is left untreated for long periods of time, it can actually lead to tooth loss which is not pleasant at all. If you suspect that you may be dealing with gum disease but don’t know what the exact symptoms of the condition are, continue reading to find out more.

Below, we’re going to provide you with a detailed look at all of the symptoms and signs to look for if you suspect that gum disease is starting to impact your life.

Can Gum Disease lead to cancer?

We all know how important it is to keep up with your oral hygiene for reasons related to keeping your breath fresh and avoiding tooth decay. However, recent studies have been conducted which are beginning to show some interesting links between the health of your mouth and how at-risk you are of developing specific types of cancers.

Gum disease happens in two main stages, the first stage is simply an infection which begins to degrade the quality of your jawbone when left to progress. More severe gum disease is known as periodontal diseases which is a bacteria that targets the bones and soft tissue of your teeth.

Here are some of the most obvious symptoms of gum disease:

Bad Breath
Sensitive Teeth
Shifting Teeth or Wiggly Teeth
Swollen Gums

If you notice any of these signs, you need to contact your dentist so that they will be able to give you an accurate diagnosis of exactly what the issue is. As these signs get progressively worse, it’s important for you to pay attention and address them to reduce the odds of the disease becoming more serious.

While the current evidence does point to a potential link between gum disease and specific types of cancers, other factors impact the likelihood of you developing certain cancer types. Your age, gender, pre-existing medical condition, and more will impact how susceptible you are to developing certain types of cancers with gum disease as a precursor.

The primary enzyme that has been found in particular cancer tumors has also been found to be present in the mouth and can act as an “enhancing” agent to gum disease.

Preventative Measures to Cure Gum Disease

You shouldn’t get too discouraged however, thanks to the fact that there are several preventative measures that you can take to reduce your odds of developing gum disease in the first place. Before we get to all of the preventative steps that you can take to cut down on your odds of developing gum disease, let’s take a look at all of the treatment options available for those who have been diagnosed.

Some of the most popular treatment options for gum disease are enzyme suppressants, antibiotic gel, surgery, oral antibiotics, medication, and more. These are all some of the most commonly used solutions for those who suffer from gum disease. To avoid those treatments altogether, you should practice preventative care to reduce your chances of developing gum disease in the first place.

Preventative Measures To Prevent Gum Disease

Keep your toothbrushes germ-free
Brush your teeth correctly
Drink Antioxidant Tea
Use a tongue scraper
Rinse your mouth out with baking soda and warm water

These are a few simple steps that you can take to help avoid having to deal with gum disease. By performing these simple care routines on a consistent basis, you will be able to maintain a healthy mouth that is free of all sorts of harmful bacteria.

People Also Ask

Can gum disease cause health problems?

Gum disease can cause a wide range of other health problems besides cancer including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and more.

Is gum cancer deadly?

Gum cancer has the potential to be deadly depending on how fast it grows and mutates. By identifying it early on you can easily cure it however the longer it goes ignored the worse it will become.

Is gum disease permanent?

When you catch gum disease early on, it can easily be cured however the longer it goes neglected the more difficult it becomes to treat.

Conclusion

Use all of the tips and information that we’ve given you in this article to fight gum disease right where it stands so that you can live a happy and healthy life.

How much do braces cost?

Written by drdalesandro on May 14, 2020. Posted in Dental Costs.

TLDR: The price that you pay for your braces will depend on various factors such as how long you plan on wearing them, the type of material they’re made from, your oral condition, and more. To get the best results, you need to speak with an experienced dentist who will be able you guide you in the right direction about which braces are right for you.

For young teens and some adults, getting braces can be a very exciting time in their lives due to the fact that a solution is being presented to long-standing oral issues. Before deciding to get braces, there are several tests that your dentist will put you through in order to determine the best corrective measures that your teeth need.

Aside from making sure that you get the right fit for your braces, you also need to consider how much they cost. The price of braces varies depending on factors such as the level of correction your teeth need and how old you are.

There are plenty of other factors such as the length of treatment and the material of your chosen braces will also impact how much you pay. Below, we’re going to provide you with a detailed breakdown of how much you can expect to pay for your braces.

How much do braces cost for kids?
The average cost for a 1-year treatment using braces for young children is about $2,500. 2-4-year brace treatments for small children can cost anywhere from $5,000-$9,000. While these are some of the most common prices that people pay for braces, the cost can increase when re-alignment or bracket replacement is needed.

The type of material that your braces are made from will also play a huge factor in determining the price you pay. Take a look at the table below to see what you can expect to pay for braces made with certain materials.

Brace Material Types & General Prices:

Ceramic- $4,000-$8,000
Invisalign- $3,000-$8,000
Metal- $3,000-$6,000
Lingual- $8,000-$10,000

Aside from the price, each of these brace materials provides unique benefits depending on exactly the type of corrective measures your teeth need. Metal braces are the oldest type of braces and are widely available making them the most cost-effective.

Ceramic braces come in a wide range of different colors however they break easily and are prone to stains. Lingual braces are installed on the rear of your teeth to essentially hide the fact that you have braces. These types of braces are oftentimes the most expensive and time-consuming to install. Invisalign is an invisible brace alternative made from plastic molds that can be removed or inserted by you yourself.

Invisalign is becoming a popular option with many young people for obvious reason and it comes at a reasonable price. Consider the level of correction that your teeth need and how long you plan on wearing braces before making a decision about which type is best for you.

How much do braces cost a month?
The exact price that you pay for your braces each month will vary depending on what portion of the bill your medical insurance covers. To get an accurate answer, you’ll need to speak with your doctor to inform them about how long you plan on keeping the braces in and the specific type of braces that you want.

Once you are able to sit down with your dentist to discuss these details, you will be able to get a clear picture of what you can expect to pay each month for braces. The length of time that you wear your braces will be one of the biggest factors you’ll need to consider when determining the monthly cost.

There are always deals going on for braces that need to be installed in small children or young adults so don’t worry about the price as so much getting the right fit.

People Also Ask

Can you get braces for free?

Yes, you can get braces for free but only through certain programs like CHIP grants or through Medicaid. Qualifying factors will vary based on your location so speak with your primary dentist to learn more

What’s the cheapest price for braces?

The cheapest price for braces is around $5,000-$6,000 however this is a barebone estimate. If you need braces and want to get the absolutely cheapest price you can, speak with your dentist to see what kind of deals or specials they are offering

How long do braces last?

Braces can typically last about 18 months to up to two years all depending on the material that they are made from and how well you take care of them. As long as you follow all of the rules outlined by your dentist, you should have no problems

Conclusion

All of the information we’ve given you in this article can be used to assist you in getting the right set of braces for your specific oral problems in no time. Use all of the tips and valuable advice we’ve shared with you so that you can start smiling from ear to ear.

Oral Health Problems for People with Diabetes

Written by drdalesandro on May 4, 2020. Posted in Teeth Problems.

TLDR: Common oral health problems faced by diabetics include: gum decay, teeth rot, periodontal gum disease, and more. Ways to prevent things like this from happening includes brushing your teeth on a regular basis and avoiding harmful habits that can reduce your healing process such as smoking. If you’re a diabetic who is experiencing any of these symptoms you need to contact your local dentist or doctor who can assist you.

It seems like everyone these days is becoming gurus of fitness and health which may be for the ultimate good. There are several different conditions & ailments that are becoming commonplace due to the onset of unhealthy habits that many people have become comfortable with. One of the most common health issues facing people today is diabetes, the condition directly affects the body’s ability to produce & respond to the hormone insulin.

Aside from impacting your blood sugar metabolism, diabetes can also begin to cause adverse side effects in other parts of your body such as heart, kidneys, nerves, & eyes. Diabetes can also have a huge impact on the health of your teeth primarily the gums. Periodontal gum disease is one of the most common oral health problems amongst individuals who have diabetes and when not treated, it can lead to bad breath in addition to extreme pain that doesn’t go away.

Because of this, it’s important for those who have been diagnosed with diabetes to take care of their oral health. There are several different ways that you can care for your oral hygiene and many of them don’t require a lot of money or time.

Below, we’re going to provide you with a detailed explanation of all the key steps that you need to take to ensure that your oral health remains in optimal condition.

Oral Health Care & Diabetes

Some of the other common oral health problems in diabetics include advanced gum disease, early gum disease, thrush, and dry mouth. To help reduce your odds of developing any of these conditions, there are a few important steps that you need to follow. Continue reading below to find out all of the important steps that you can take to protect your oral health.

How to care for your oral health problems:

Brush your teeth at least twice each day
Regularly visit the dentist
Avoid smoking when at all possible
Manage your diabetes on a regular schedule
Inform your dentist that you have diabetes
Analyze yourself for early signs of gum disease
Make sure you floss your teeth at last once each day

These are some of the most common ways that you can care for your teeth in a way that will help reduce the potential impact that diabetes has on their condition. Diabetes also has a significant impact on the body’s ability to heal, this can impede on your ability to recover from diseases such as periodontal gum disease.

People with diabetes are predisposed to a wide range of different variables which makes them more susceptible to developing certain types of oral health problems. Some of the conditions that make diabetic people more prone to oral health issues are: reducing tissue healing capabilities, gum inflammation, burning mouth, and thrush.

Treatment for oral health problems in diabetics
If you have been diagnosed with any of the oral health problems that we mentioned above, you need to seek the proper treatment. Depending on the specific oral health problem that you’re facing, there are plenty of viable treatment options available. Keep in mind, treatments designed for oral health problems in diabetics have a decreased effectiveness due to the slowing down of the healing process that takes place as a result of the disease.

One of the most effective treatment options for people who suffer from oral health problems due to diabetes is routine cleaning. By cleaning your teeth on a regular basis, you will be able to reduce the direct impact that any gum decay or teeth rot may have on your overall health.

In some instances, medication may be prescribed to help treat your condition however you will need to consult with your dentist before taking any prescription medication. You should always monitor the progression of any oral health problems that you identify so that you can stay on top of using the right method to treat it.

If you’re struggling to find out where to get help with your oral health problems, here are some suggestions:

Primary care physician
Dentist
Diabetic Specialist

All of these individuals will be able to help you get the right information that you need in order to find the solution most effective for the oral problems you’re facing.

Final Thoughts on Oral Health Problems for People with Diabetes

As long as you take the time to read through all of the valuable knowledge, we’ve given you above, you will be able to treat and even prevent oral health problems from arising in your life due to diabetes.

Never take for granted how serious decaying gums or teeth can be to your overall health in the event that you have diabetes coupled on top of it.

People Also Ask

What are 5 oral health diseases?

The five oral health diseases are periodontal diseases, tooth decay, pro-dental trauma, and oral manifestations of HIV.

What diseases or disorders affect the mouth?

Diseases or disorders that affect the mouth are temporomandibular disorder, oral cancer, and diabetes.

Can tooth decay cause other health problems?

Tooth decay can cause other health problems like cavities and even bad breath.

What Are the Main Causes of Dental Problems?

Written by drdalesandro on April 22, 2020. Posted in Teeth Problems.

Why Be Concerned About Your Dental and Oral Health?

Maintaining proper dental and oral hygiene is an essential part of your overall health and well-being. Conversely, poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease, alveolar bone loss, and ultimately tooth loss. Compromised oral health, especially for an extended period of time, has even been linked with an increased risk of developing other serious health conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. With so much at stake, then, how can you protect yourself against the common pitfalls leading to such serious health issues? This article will help answer that question as we consider the most common causes of serious dental issues and how best to avoid them.

Tooth Decay – The ‘Silent’ Epidemic

The CDC notes dental cavities are the most common chronic disease among youth ages 6 to 19 and NBC reports an alarming 91% of American adults between 20 and 64 are affected by tooth decay. Sadly, too many people never even see it coming until it is nearly too late, even when their teeth had been trying to warn them for months. Tooth decay is the softening and eventual breakdown of your tooth enamel — the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth — and refers to the damage of the structure of the tooth caused by acids. This loss of tooth structure is known as acid erosion and occurs when plaque bacteria break down and digest carbohydrates (sugars) in your mouth. If this loss of minerals from the enamel is left untreated, a cavity (small hole in the tooth) can eventually occur. Without professional treatment, these holes tend to grow larger over time and eventually may end up destroying the entire tooth and surrounding tissue.

Main Causes of Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Poor Oral Hygiene:  Not brushing your teeth regularly between meals allows a sticky film of bacteria known as plaque to form and build up on your teeth. When left untreated, irreparable damage may be caused to the enamel, and in time may ultimately lead to the permanent loss of gum tissue, bone, and teeth. That is why it is so important to brush your teeth regularly after every meal and floss at least once a day, in order to thoroughly remove all food particles and lingering sugars.
Plaque Formation:  When not removed on a regular basis, the plaque adheres to your teeth and continues to build up and harden over time, often turning into a more resistant substance called tartar. Also known as dental calculus, tartar is a crusty deposit that can trap stains on the teeth and cause discoloration. It creates a strong bond that can only be removed by a dental professional. Since sugar attracts harmful bacteria and lowers your mouth’s pH, it is therefore a major contributing factor to tooth decay and strongly recommended that one limits their intake of sugary snacks and drinks.
Plaque Bacteria and Acids:  While most of us don’t like to think about or admit it, bacteria naturally live in our mouth and like to hide in our teeth and gums. When harmful bacteria digest the carbohydrates that linger inside the mouth, acid forms to remove essential minerals from the tooth enamel. This destructive process is called demineralization and leaves the tooth exposed to further damage such as a cavity or dental abscess.
Chronic Dry Mouth:  Thankfully our mouth has a natural line of defense for demineralization. Saliva helps to constantly reverse this damage by means of a natural process called mineralization. The minerals in your saliva, such as calcium and phosphate, in addition to fluoride from toothpaste and drinking water, help the enamel repair itself by replacing minerals lost during an “acid attack.” If you are prone to or experience dry mouth frequently, click HERE to read about the various remedies proven to alleviate this condition.
Poor Diet:  Frequent snacking on foods high in sugar increases the amount of time your teeth are exposed to the dissolving effects of various acids, which make them more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. Because of their high nutritional value and added teeth-cleaning benefits, some of the best foods to snack on are fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as calcium-rich foods to promote strong teeth and bones. Chewing on crunchy vegetables, such as carrots and celery, helps get the salivary juices flowing, which in turn helps wash away plaque-causing bacteria and food particles.
Smoking & Tobacco Use: Tobacco use in any form — cigarettes, pipes, and smokeless (chewing) tobacco — raises your risk for gum disease, including severe gum disease called periodontitis. In fact, smokers have twice the risk for gum disease compared with a nonsmoker. Smoking weakens your body’s immune system, thus making it considerably less effective in fighting off infections such as gum and tooth infections. Once you have gum damage, smoking also makes it harder for your gums to heal.
Medical Problems:  Some types of cancer treatment that expose the head and neck to radiation can promote a tooth cavity by changing the makeup of the saliva to promote increased bacterial growth.

Now that we’ve thoroughly covered the main causes of dental problems and how best to avoid them, we can better appreciate that maintaining healthy teeth and gums is a very essential, lifelong commitment. The earlier you learn proper oral hygiene habits — such as brushing, flossing, and limiting your sugar intake — the easier it will be to avoid costly dental procedures and long-term health issues in the future. Applying the aforementioned recommendations not only promotes your overall health and well-being, but it also helps improve the quality of your life now and many years to come!

What are Veneers?

Written by drdalesandro on March 10, 2020. Posted in Veneers.

TLDR: Veneers are porcelain or resin covers that are attached to the front of your teeth to correct issues like chipped teeth, gaps, discoloration, and misshapen teeth and give you a smile you can be proud of. They last 10 to 15 years, cost between $1,000 and $2,500 each and can be maintained through good oral hygiene practices.

What are the benefits of getting veneers?

Veneers are an artificial cover that is attached to the front of your tooth to correct any abnormalities and leave you with a beautiful smile. Veneers are an excellent solution to anyone dealing with chipped teeth, a gap between their teeth, extreme discoloration that cannot be fixed with whitening, unusually small or pointed teeth and more.

What are veneers made of?

Veneers are usually made of porcelain or resin composite materials. When you’re ready to meet with your dentist and get your custom made veneers, you’ll want to know the benefits of the porcelain veneers versus resin veneers so you can make the best selection for your lifestyle.

Benefits of Porcelain Veneers

Removes less enamel than cap and crowns
Natural-looking color and texture
Stain-resistant
Long-lasting
Thin Shell
Custom-fit
Strong

Benefits of Resin Veneers

Removes less enamel than caps, crowns, and porcelain veneers
A simple procedure that sometimes only required one visit
Less expensive than porcelain veneers
Easily repaired if damaged or broken
Custom-fit

What is the cost of veneers?

The cost of veneers varies greatly depending on the dentist that is providing them and what type of veneers you select. Veneers are not usually covered by insurance because they are a cosmetic procedure designed to cover up chipped teeth, gaps between your front teeth and misshapen teeth. Traditional veneers can cost between $1,000 and $2,500 per tooth and last around 10 to 15 years.

What to expect when you get your veneers

The first step to getting your veneers includes a consultation with your dentist to figure out what issues you are experiencing with your teeth and what you would like your veneers to look like. With this information, your dentist can give you more information about the type of veneers that will best meet your needs.

Next, your dentist will take an impression or mold of your teeth so your custom-designed veneers will fit your teeth perfectly! The porcelain or resin veneers are made right on the mold of your teeth. Most dentists will even offer a wax-up model of your teeth so you can see what your results will look like before the treatment starts.

Some dentists will provide you with a temporary veneer to try out beforehand to make sure you like them and they fit properly before attaching the permanent veneers to your teeth.

When your veneers have been perfected, you will have an appointment with your dentist to have the veneers bonded to your teeth. At this appointment, your dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth before attaching the veneers. The bonding process is extremely secure and veneers cannot be removed after they are attached. They are attached to your teeth by applying a mild acidic solution to both your teeth and the veneers, creating a porous surface that can be bonded together with a translucent cement. At this time it is important to speak, smile and move your mouth around to make sure your veneers feel right in your mouth. Your dentist can make a few minor adjustments at this time.

How to protect your veneers

Although veneers are designed to be strong and give you a smile you can be proud of, it’s still important to take certain steps to protect your new veneers. After you get your veneers, our dentists suggest you protect them by:

Wearing a mouth guard when playing sports or other dangerous activities
Never using your veneers to rip open packaging or condiment packages
Not chewing on hard objects like your fingernails, pens, and ice
Using a retainer (custom-made night guard) if you grind or clench your teeth at night
Brushing and flossing your teeth daily!

What type of dentist does veneers in Tucson?

You can get veneers from many different dentists all over Tucson. If you’re ready to be more confident in your smile with custom-fit veneers, call the office of Dr. Adam Dalesandro and Dr. Jeffrey Derickson for an appointment. From preventive dental care to new veneers, you can always count on getting the treatment you need at our dental office. Call us today at (520) 327-5993 for more information.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

Written by drdalesandro on March 2, 2020. Posted in Dental Costs.

TLDR: From a financial perspective, dental implants are cost-competitive with other tooth replacement options over the long term, and when quality of life and long-term oral health is factored in, dental implants rank as the highest quality option when it comes to replacing teeth.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement solution, and have been successfully in use since the 1960’s. Designed to be artificial tooth roots, dental implants have a similar shape to screws and are bonded with the natural bone in the jaw to create a sturdy base to support artificial teeth. With an extensive life-span and several health benefits, dental implants can be well worth the price of the investment.

Quality Factors in to the Cost of Dental Implants

Dental Implants were designed to be a long-term solution and have a lifespan averaging at least 25 years with proper care and maintenance. Dental Implants are an investment due to the high quality they offer. The implant itself, the root-like portion that is shaped like a screw, is made out of titanium and is surgically placed into the jaw. An abutment is placed on top of the implant to hold the prosthetics in place. The crown, the part that mimics a tooth, is designed to be natural looking and is made of mostly ceramic.

The titanium lasts a lifetime, but the abutment and crown are more prone to deterioration. With proper care and maintenance, they can still be expected to last 15-25 years. There are other factors in how long your dental implant can last, including:

How well you take care and maintain your dental implants
Your general oral health and lifestyle.
How you use your dental implants.
Location of the implant.
How skilled the dentist was that inserted the implant.

Having poor oral health and misusing your implants can negatively affect how long your implants will last. As long as you take care of the implants and receive the procedure from a trained and experienced dentist who knows how to flawlessly place the dental implants, you can expect the dental implant to have a full life span of 25 years due to the high quality of the materials used.
The Health Benefits that are Worth the Cost of Dental Implants Dental Implants offer other benefits in addition to their high quality materials. There are several health benefits that are associated with getting dental implants. For example, dental implant surgery also helps to restore the structure of your jawbone by reducing the load on the remaining teeth. This preserves your natural tooth tissue and prevents bone deterioration or resorption that may lead to jawbone loss.

For those born with certain deformities, dental implants can be used to osseointegrate with the jawbone. Meaning that the titanium integrates with the surrounding bone and fuses permanently to the mandible. This will prevent Besides its aesthetic value, implant surgery makes it easier for you to eat and speak because the implant post is secured firmly into your jawbone.

The Cost of Alternative Solutions of Dental Implants

You might be surprised how affordable dental implants are compared to other tooth replacement options, especially when you take into account long-term cost effectiveness and quality of life. At first glance, dentures or removable bridges can appear more inexpensive compared to the price of dental implants, given their lower upfront costs. However, the full cost of these options can run much higher than the cost of dental implants, for several reasons:

Initial costs versus total costs. The initial price you pay doesn’t include the cost of replacing your dentures or bridges, which may be necessary as often as every 5 years. It also doesn’t include the ongoing maintenance costs, such as adhesives and fixatives.
The convenience costs. Unlike your natural teeth or dental implants, you need to remove your dentures to soak and brush them, which can be a time-consuming hassle.
The health costs. Without a tooth or implant, your jawbone will begin to deteriorate, which can change your facial appearance and lead to further health problems.
The social costs. Dentures can slip or click when you chew, laugh, talk or kiss. There is the possibility of them falling out all together.

The Total Cost of Dental Implants is Based on Each Client’s Individual Needs

Since every dental implant treatment is customized for specific individuals needs, the costs vary accordingly. The total cost depends on several different factors, including how many teeth need replacing and where they’re located, the number and type of implants, and whether any additional procedures are necessary to prepare your mouth for the implants.

An evaluation by an experienced dental implant expert is the best way to ensure that you are getting an accurate cost estimate for quality work. If you see ads for dental implants with low prices that seem too good to be true – well, you know what they say. If someone quotes you a price for dental implants without examining you, it’s best to be cautious in that scenario.

A single top or bottom set can cost anywhere between $3,500 to $30,000. Full mouth implants can range anywhere from $7,000 to $90,000, with the full mouth set averaging at approximately $30,000. Most insurance companies do not cover the full cost of dental implants, regardless of the fact that they are now considered the standard solution to teeth replacement.

The Cost of Alternative Solutions of Dental Implants

Initial costs versus total costs. The initial price you pay doesn’t include the cost of replacing your dentures or bridges, which may be necessary as often as every 5 to 15 years. It also doesn’t include the ongoing maintenance costs, such as fixatives and adhesives.
The convenience costs. Unlike your natural teeth or dental implants, you need to remove your dentures to soak and brush them, which can be a time-consuming hassle.
The health costs. Without a tooth or implant, your jawbone will begin to deteriorate, which can change your facial appearance.
The social costs. Dentures can slip or click when you chew, laugh, talk or kiss. There is the possibility of them falling out all together.

The Cost of Dental Implants can be Well Worth the Investment

When taking into mind all of the variables of the long-term effects, benefits, and quality of dental implants, it’s easy to see why they have become the standard solution in the world of replacing
teeth. The cost of dental implants may seem expensive when you first look into it, but can be overall worth the investment and offer some peace of mind for your dental health.

What Is the Best Way to Whiten Your Teeth?

Written by drdalesandro on March 2, 2020. Posted in Teeth Whitening.

TLDR: The best way to whiten teeth is one that is safe, cost-effective and works for you, since everyone’s teeth are different and there are different types of tooth stains, there are a wide variety of ways to whiten your teeth and the best one is subjective to your needs and budget.

Let’s Discuss What is the Best Way to Whiten Your Teeth

If you are considering the best way to whiten your teeth, it’s important to factor in some variables. This includes what your budget is, the time frame you are wanting to achieve, how much effort and time you are willing to commit to adding this into your routine, and the type of stains you have. It’s important to take into consideration any restrictions you may have regarding your oral health as well. Options can range anywhere from professional treatments that come with a hefty price tag, to do-it-yourself and budget-friendly.

Professional Treatments can Offer the Best Way to Whiten Your Teeth

If you have grey or brown discoloration, oral health problems, dental restorations or certain diseases you will need to discuss your teeth whitening options with a dentist. For the most dramatic and instantaneous results, it’s best to visit your local dentist’s office or teeth whitening clinic for a professional whitening treatment, which offers a higher concentration of active bleaching ingredients. The downside is that professional whitening can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,500 dollars per treatment. If that’s not quite in your budget, the good news is that over-the-counter teeth whitening products have come a long way, and the aesthetic results can
now rival those treatments administered by your doctor, as long as you don’t have any underlying conditions.

The Best Teeth Whitening Products to Use at Home

If you have yellow teeth due to stains from food, drink or aging then you should be able to use at home devices or products to help restore your smile. There are three main options for teeth whitening at home: toothpastes, strips, and light devices. Pastes offer minimal whitening results, due to low levels of bleaching ingredients, which also means they have a low chance of permanently damaging your enamel. Strips and light devices provide more dramatic results, since the whitening ingredients make full contact with teeth for longer periods of time.

Whitening toothpastes pastes typically contain mild abrasives like hydrated silica, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium carbonate to polish and remove surface stains, essentially getting the “whitening” effect by scraping off the stains. Whitening toothpastes can also possibly contain low concentrations of active hydrogen peroxide to bleach teeth, which will strengthen the whitening effect.

Whitening strips use a plastic strip, tray, or mold to apply the bleaching ingredient hydrogen peroxide directly to teeth. Each session lasts between 30 minutes to two hours, and you’ll need up to three weeks of repeated use for full results. If you want to make your teeth white fast, strips are one of the most effective over-the-counter teeth whiteners, as the active ingredient is left on teeth for an extended period of time. It’s important to ensure you are using high quality products so that you are not causing damage to the teeth.

Whitening light devices work by applying a whitening agent directly to the teeth, then a blue LED light is held over them to increase and accelerate results. Like teeth whitening strips, light devices are very effective because of the amount of time the active ingredient makes full contact with your teeth.

The Best DIY Way to Whiten Your Teeth

Made popular by online resources, there are a ton of Do-It-Yourself options for whitening your teeth at home. There seem to be so many ways to whiten your teeth but do they all work? Are they all safe? Will some actually do more harm than good? When whitening your teeth at home, always keep a close eye on how you react and stop any treatment immediately if you notice sensitivity or pain. Generally, these are the safest way to effectively whiten your teeth at home:

Creating a Baking Soda paste to use as a toothpaste.
Oil Pulling to help whiten teeth and used as anti-bacterial for overall oral health.
Swishing with diluted Hydrogen Peroxide, but only minimally limited use as not to damage your enamel.
Apple Cider Vinegar is considered a natural cleaning product, but should be used very sparingly and quick as to not soften your teeth.
Practicing good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.
Prevent stains from forming and limit your intake of staining food and drinks, such as red wine and coffee.

There are a surplus of other DIY “hacks” for whitening teeth, but can be more harm than good, due to the high level of acidity that is proven to permanently damage your enamel. With no real studies to show the effectiveness and safety, the following are not recommended and should be avoided:

Apple Cider Vinegar or Hydrogen Peroxide for long periods of time.
Fruit peels are not backed up by science to have any sort of whitening effect, although made famous by celebrities.
Activated Charcoal toothpastes have been proved to be too abrasive for teeth, especially for daily use.

What’s the best option for whitening sensitive teeth? If you have sensitive teeth, you’ll want to take some extra precautions before using at-home whitening products. It is recommended to see your dentist if you have sensitive teeth, as it may be a sign of dental problems. If your teeth are okay but you simply have sensitivity, your dentist can help with desensitizing treatments. Just ensure you are paying close attention to how your teeth react. If you experience sensitivity or if the edges of your teeth start to appear see-through, you should stop the whitening regimen immediately, so that permanent damage is not inflicted.

The Best Way to Whiten Your Teeth

For Every Scenario Good oral care, including regular brushing, flossing your teeth, and dental checkups and teeth cleanings, will go a long way towards helping remove the surface stains. If you want to see significant results you’ll need to choose an option that really removes stains from the enamel on your teeth, such as in-chair treatments and whitening kits. Whitening toothpaste can also assist in helping you restore your smile and it is possible you can achieve desirable effects at-home by utilizing baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. As long as you do not have any oral health risks, you can establish a tooth whitening regime based on your individual needs and your budget.

How to Know When to Get a Cavity Filled

Written by drdalesandro on January 6, 2020. Posted in Cavities.

Even the most diligent brushers will probably need a professional tooth filling every once in a while. If you’ve never had decay in your teeth, you may be wondering when you need to get a cavity filled. What are the warning signs? How urgent is it to have a cavity filled? Fortunately, it’s simple to get the answers to these questions. Continue reading to learn how you can tell when to get a cavity filled.

Your teeth feel unusually sensitive

Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common signs of needing a filling. It’s especially common to experience pain or discomfort upon eating foods that are very hot, very cold, or very sweet. If you experience sudden pain when biting down using a certain tooth, it’s a strong indication that you have tooth decay there. Even generalized tooth pain that is not specific to any one area can be a warning sign that you may have a cavity—or more than one.

Your dental floss keeps getting stuck

When you are flossing between your teeth, you should be able to move the floss in and out with ease. If your floss repeatedly gets trapped—or even frayed or torn—when you are flossing in between one pair of teeth, then it could mean that you have a cavity there. If this is the case, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Be sure to tell your dentist that you think you may have a decaying tooth, and indicate the area.

You are getting food stuck in your teeth

One of the reasons why it is so important to brush and floss every day is to remove small particles of food that would otherwise stay trapped between your teeth, leading to bacterial growth. If you find that you are repeatedly getting food stuck in a certain part of your mouth, however, it could be a warning sign that you have tooth decay there already. That’s when you should get in touch with your dentist.

Now you know when to get a cavity filled, it’s time to call Dr. Dalesandro

If you don’t want to wait any longer to get your cavity filled, call the office of Dr. Adam Dalesandro and Dr. Jeffrey Derickson for an appointment. We serve patients of all ages and strive to ensure that everyone we treat gets the best oral care available. From preventive dental care to tooth replacement, you can always count on getting the treatment you need at our dental office. Call us today at (520) 327-5993 for more information.

Other people asked

How long can A cavity wait to get filled?

When to get a cavity filled?

How Long Can a Cavity Wait to Get Filled?

Written by drdalesandro on January 6, 2020. Posted in Cavities.

If you suspect that you may have a cavity, then it’s time to visit your Tucson dentist so that you can find out whether or not you need a filling. Tooth decay can have serious consequences for your oral health, especially if it goes untreated. If you do discover that you have a tooth decay, should you have it treated right away? How long can a cavity wait to get filled? If you’re wondering if you can wait to treat it, this article will provide you with the answer you’re looking for. Which is to have the issue taken care of right away. The sooner the easier it is to fix. Waiting will only cause complications with your oral health.

How long should you wait before visiting the dentist?

If you have reason to think that you might have a cavity, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately. Cavities may not present any noticeable symptoms at all. This is one reason why it is so important to schedule routine checkups at your dentist’s office every six months. That way, your dentist will be able to identify and treat tooth decay as soon as possible. Even if you have recently visited your dentist for a checkup, symptoms of tooth decay shouldn’t be ignored. Common warning signs of a decay include tooth sensitivity, pain while eating, and sharp pain when using one or more of your teeth.

How long should you wait before having your cavity treated?

Once your dentist has diagnosed you with a tooth decay, the next matter to consider is when you will have it filled. Should you have your filling done right away, or can you afford to wait to fill a cavity? It is crucial that you have your tooth decay treated by your dentist as quickly as possible. The longer a cavity is allowed to progress, the more extensive the damage is likely to be. If tooth decay continues without professional treatment, it can cause an abscess and even lead to tooth loss. Fortunately, your dentist can easily treat tooth decay if it is in its early stages.

If you’re looking for a Tucson dentist that you can always trust, it’s time to schedule an appointment at the office of Dr. Adam Dalesandro and Dr. Jeffrey Derickson. We are committed to providing our patients with the finest dental care possible so they can always enjoy happy, healthy smiles. From porcelain veneers to tooth whitening to dental implants, our office offers a wide array of treatments to help you protect your oral health. If you have any questions, call (520) 327-5993.

Other people have asked

When to get a cavity filled?
How to Know When to Get a Cavity Filled

When to Get a Cavity Filled

Written by drdalesandro on December 18, 2019. Posted in Cavities.

TLDR: You should get a cavity filled as soon as possible. Not doing so will increase the risk of further tooth decay that can lead to permanent jaw or bone damage in severe cases.

One question that comes up time and time again is: “How long should I wait to get a cavity filled”, and to be honest – this really depends on who you ask and how big the cavity is or how much pain it is causing you.

In some cases, if you catch a tooth decaying early enough, a simple fluoride solution will help to restore the enamel on the damaged part of the tooth. As a rule of thumb, however, if you are experiencing extreme pain or sensitivity you may need to have it treated through oral surgery.

One thing remains the same in all scenarios, however. The longer you wait to get it treated, the more damage will occur. Also, the higher the cost will end up being. This is why it is important to get a cavity filled as soon as possible.

What is a Cavity?

A cavity is an actual hole on the surface of a tooth.

In almost all cases they are the result of ongoing tooth decay from dental plaque that has continued to build upon the tooth surface. Through natural biological processes in your mouth, bacteria convert to sugar in food particles into an abrasive acid, which then leads to enamel erosion.

How can I tell if I Have a Cavity?

You can tell if you have one through a visual inspection of your teeth, most of the time. In some cases, cavities are inside of the tooth or in between them, which can only be seen through an X-ray device.

It’s important to mention that early tooth decay may not actually be painful. You don’t always experience the traditional sensitivity to hot and cold substances either. This reason specifically is why it is so important to get regular checkups. It’s best to have thorough exams from a dentist.

Further decay, however, will begin to cause pain in your teeth or jaw when it reaches the pulp cavity of the tooth. This is where the nerve endings for your teeth exist and why you feel pain in the peripheral area.

At this point, if your cavity is not addressed, it may turn into a dental abscess.

How Are Cavities Treated?

Knowing when to get a decayed tooth filled may be the difference in the treatment the dentist recommends. The longer treatment is delayed, the more invasive it may become.

Mild to moderate cases of cavities are most commonly treated with fillings or restorations. During this procedure, your dentist will use a drill to remove the damaged part of the tooth and then fill the surface with a restorative material. These materials vary in appearance, cost, durability, and color.
If the damage to the tooth is beyond moderate, it may require the use of a crown. This process involves drilling away the crown tooth that currently exists and replacing it with a covering. Like fillings, crowns can be made of different materials and vary in appearance, cost, durability, and color.
If the tooth has been left untreated for many months, it may require a root canal. This is the process in which the top part of the tooth is removed. The pulp inside of the pulp cavity is cleaned out. The remaining hole packed and then the tooth crowned to prevent future bacteria from entering.
If the tooth can not be saved due to long-term neglect, it will need to be extracted. After the tooth is extracted and has healed an implant or bridge can be used to restore the aesthetic appearance of the tooth.

Getting your cavities filled is very important!

Hopefully, this article has given you a better understanding of when to get a cavity filled. As outlined above, it is best practice to get it addressed as soon as you notice it to prevent future damages.

At the dental offices of Dr. Dalesandro, we take great pride in addressing your dental health as quickly as possible to prevent future damages of your teeth. If you have a decaying tooth or you need an exam, please call our offices with our team of professional technicians.