If you've recently received a CEREC crown, you're probably wondering how long it will last and what you can do to make sure it stays in great condition for as long as possible.
CEREC crowns are a popular choice for those needing dental restorations due to their convenience and durability. While these crowns are designed to last for years, it's important to take proper care of them to ensure longevity.
In this article, we'll dive into the lifespan of CEREC crowns and share some tips on keeping them in excellent condition for as long as possible. Whether you're a new CEREC crown recipient or simply curious about the lifespan of dental restorations, keep reading to learn more.
Lifespan of CEREC Crowns
CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. As the name suggests, CEREC crowns are made using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. Unlike traditional crowns, which require multiple appointments and the use of temporary crowns, CEREC crowns can be designed, fabricated, and placed in a single visit.
But how long can you expect a CEREC crown to last? The lifespan of a CEREC crown depends on several factors, including the strength of the underlying tooth, the quality of the crown's fit, and the patient's oral hygiene habits. On average, CEREC crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, but with proper care and maintenance, they can last even longer.
Factors that Affect the Lifespan of CEREC Crowns
Several factors can affect the longevity of your CEREC crowns. One of the most important factors is the strength of the underlying tooth. If the tooth is severely damaged or decayed, it may not be able to support the crown for as long as a healthy tooth. In some cases, a root canal or other dental procedure may be necessary to strengthen the tooth before a crown can be placed.
Another factor that can affect the lifespan of CEREC crowns is the quality of the crown's fit. If the crown is not properly fitted to the tooth, it may become loose or fall off, requiring replacement. That's why it's essential to choose a skilled and experienced dentist who has experience with CEREC technology.
Finally, the patient's oral hygiene habits can also play a significant role in the lifespan of CEREC crowns. Poor oral hygiene, including infrequent brushing and flossing, can lead to decay and gum disease, compromising the integrity of the crown and the underlying tooth. It's essential to maintain good oral hygiene habits and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
How to Prolong the Lifespan of CEREC Crowns
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to keep your CEREC crowns in top condition and prolong their lifespan. Here are some tips:
Oral Hygiene Practices for CEREC Crowns
Good oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, as well as prolonging the lifespan of your CEREC crowns. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around the crown. And use an antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes for CEREC Crowns
Your diet and lifestyle can also affect the longevity of your CEREC crowns. Avoid hard and sticky foods that can damage the crown or pull it off the tooth. Limit your consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks, as they can promote decay and erosion. And quit smoking, as it can stain the crown and increase your risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
Regular Dental Check-Ups and Maintenance
Even with proper oral hygiene and lifestyle habits, it's essential to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and maintenance. Your dentist can monitor the condition of your CEREC crowns and identify any issues early on before they become more significant problems. They can also perform professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup and polish your crowns to keep them looking their best.
Common Reasons for CEREC Crown Failure
Despite your best efforts, there may be times when your CEREC crown fails. Some of the most common reasons for CEREC crown failure include decay or damage to the underlying tooth, improper fit, wear and tear, and trauma. If you experience any pain, sensitivity, or looseness with your CEREC crown, contact your dentist immediately.
CEREC Same-Day Crowns in Cupertino, CA
CEREC crowns are a convenient and effective solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. With proper care and maintenance, you can expect your CEREC crowns to last for many years.
By maintaining good oral hygiene habits, making diet and lifestyle changes, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can ensure that your CEREC crowns stay in top condition and provide you with a beautiful and healthy smile.
Remember to choose a skilled and experienced dentist who has experience with CEREC technology. For more information and to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 408-996-8595.
What is Restorative Dentistry?
In a very general sense, restorative dentistry works to restore teeth that need to be repaired or replaced. Tooth decay can be removed, the integrity of teeth can be restored, and any missing teeth can be replaced with natural-appearing, functional alternatives thanks to these restorative treatments. Let’s take a closer look at a few of the most common procedures used in restorative dentistry.Composite Fillings
Perhaps the most common restorative dental procedure, composite fillings are used when bacteria has made its way into the tooth’s enamel— commonly known as a cavity. During this procedure, the dentist will remove the area of decay and fill the remaining hole with a composite resin material. Unlike the silver amalgam fillings of years past, this resin matches the tooth color so it looks great as it seals off the compromised tooth.Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are procedures used when a tooth needs a little more than a simple filling but does not warrant a full dental crown. In other words, the tooth’s structure is still intact. Inlays and onlays are made of porcelain using same-day CEREC technology. They, too, blend beautifully with your natural teeth and restore functionality.Dental Crowns
Dental crowns, occasionally referred to as caps, are dental restorations that cover the outside of the tooth. For instance, a tooth that has been cracked, broken, or worn down can be restored to a full, natural-appearing tooth once again. Dental crowns are also often used after large amounts of decay are removed, such as with a root canal. This procedure often leaves a large hole in the tooth and puts its structure in jeopardy. A crown seals it and returns its strength. Dental crowns can be made of different materials, but porcelain/ceramic are most popular — especially when used with CEREC technology.Dental Implant Restorations
Dental implants are a very popular restoration used to replace missing teeth. Implanted and left to fuse with the jaw bone, they look and function just like a real tooth. A dental implant can be used to replace one tooth, a few teeth, or an entire mouth of teeth.Dentures and Dental Bridges
Dentures are used to replace an entire arch of teeth, top, bottom, or both. Dental bridges are used to fill the gap where one or more teeth are missing in a row. There are different options available for dentures, such as full or partial, traditional, or implant-supported, etc.How Much Does Restorative Dentistry Cost in Cupertino, CA?
The cost of restorative dentistry in Cupertino, CA can vary based on the type of treatment and the surrounding circumstances. Below you will find the average cost of these types of treatments:- Composite fillings: $350 to $575 per tooth
- Inlays and onlays: $1,750 per tooth
- Dental crowns: $1,750 per tooth
- Dental implants: $2,000 to $4,000 per implant
- Dental bridge: $5,250 for a three-tooth bridge
- Traditional dentures: $4,000 per arch
- Implant-supported dentures: Upwards of $30,000 per arch
Learn More About Restorative Dentistry
If you would like to learn more about restorative dentistry, Dr. Ryan Senft, DDS, and his team can help. Let us show you how transformative these dental procedures can be for your oral health and your overall quality of life. Contact us today at . Or, request an appointment online.Dental implants are an innovative and long-lasting solution for missing teeth, providing a natural-looking and durable replacement. Not only do they look and feel like real teeth, but they can also last for decades when properly cared for.
But just how long do dental implants last?
This article will explore the longevity of dental implants, looking at the factors that contribute to their longevity and how to maintain them for years of use. We will also discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages of dental implants, as well as provide tips for getting the most out of your implants. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of how long dental implants can last, and how to ensure that yours will last for many years to come.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium fixtures that are surgically inserted into the jawbone to serve as a replacement for missing teeth. The implants are then topped with a crown, bridge, or denture to provide a natural-looking and functioning replacement for the missing tooth. Dental implants are the preferred option for many people because they are a more permanent solution than traditional dentures or bridges and can last for many years with proper care.
The process for getting dental implants is fairly straightforward. The first step is to have an implant dentist evaluate your mouth to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. If you are a good candidate, the implant dentist will then surgically place the implant into the jawbone, and then wait for the implant to fuse with the bone. This process is called osseointegration and typically takes several months to complete. Once the implant has successfully fused with the bone, the implant dentist will then place the crown, bridge, or denture on top of the implant.
What Factors Contribute to the Longevity of Dental Implants?
The longevity of dental implants is dependent on a few factors, including the quality of the implant, the expertise of the implant dentist, and the aftercare. The quality of the implant is an important factor because if the implant is not of good quality, it may not be able to fuse with
the jawbone properly, or it may be more prone to failure. The expertise of the implant dentist is also important because if the implant is not placed correctly, it could lead to further complications. Finally, the aftercare is important because if the implant is not regularly maintained, it could be more prone to failure.
In addition to these factors, the patient’s overall health and lifestyle can also impact the longevity of the implant. For example, if the patient has an unhealthy lifestyle, such as smoking or excessive drinking, or if they have certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, these could increase the risk of implant failure. It is important to discuss these factors with your implant dentist before getting the procedure to ensure the best possible outcome.
Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants have many advantages over traditional dentures and bridges. One of the biggest advantages is that they are permanent, meaning they don’t need to be removed for cleaning or maintenance. This makes them much more convenient than traditional dentures, which can be inconvenient and uncomfortable.
Dental implants also provide a more natural look and feel than traditional dentures and bridges. This is because the implant is fused to the jawbone, so it looks and feels like a real tooth. In addition, because the implant is fused to the jawbone, it can provide additional stability and support for the surrounding teeth, which can help prevent further tooth loss.
Finally, dental implants can also last much longer than traditional dentures or bridges. Many implants can last for decades with proper care, while traditional dentures and bridges have to be replaced every five to seven years.
How to Maintain Your Dental Implants for Maximum Longevity
Once you have your dental implants in place, it is important to maintain them properly to ensure they last for many years. The best way to do this is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day, using a soft-bristled brush, and avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks. In addition, it is important to visit your implant dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
It is also important to avoid activities that could damage your teeth or the implant, such as using your teeth as tools. If you play contact sports, it is important to wear a mouthguard to protect all your teeth, including the implant, from damage. Finally, it is important to avoid smoking, as this can increase the risk of implant failure.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Dental Implants
If you are considering getting dental implants, there are a few things you can do to ensure you get the most out of your implants. The first is to find an experienced implant dentist who has the expertise and knowledge to ensure the procedure is done correctly. It is also important to take your time researching the different types of implants and crowns to find the best option for you.
It’s also important to practice good oral hygiene to ensure the longevity of your implants. This includes brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day, avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and visiting your implant dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Finally, avoid activities that could damage the implant, such as biting into hard foods or using your teeth as tools.
Dental implants are a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for missing teeth, and they can last for many years with proper care. To learn more about dental implants in Cupertino, contact us at 408-996-8595 to schedule an appointment.
The Initial Consultation
During your initial consultation, you will undergo a thorough examination from the dentist. Combined with a discussion of your dental and medical history, your dentist is then able to make the determination as to whether you are a good candidate for dental implants. If you are and you choose to move forward with them, then x-rays and digital impressions will be taken in order to kick off the planning. This is your first step toward a brand-new smile.Addressing Underlying Dental Issues
During that first consultation, we will determine if there are any underlying dental issues that need to be addressed before the implant. For instance, any tooth decay, infections, misalignments, signs of gum disease, and more. Having good oral health is vital to reduce the chance of infection after the implant surgery - as well as keeping them healthy in the future.Placing the Dental Implant
Now it is time to actually begin the dental implant procedure - and it is important to understand that it comes in parts. First up, placing the actual implant. Using a local anesthetic, we will implant a small post beneath your gums to act as an alternative root. In our office, implants are inserted using 3D guided technology, which typically means an incision only a few millimeters in size and no sutures. The implant is then left to fuse with the jawbone over the next couple of months - or longer, if needed.Placing the Abutment
Next up is the abutment. When we are confident that the implant has fused, an abutment is attached to the implant. Consider this to be the connecting piece between the implant itself and your future dental crown. We may or may not provide a temporary crown while the permanent one is customized.Placing the Dental Crown
Once the digital impression has been made and your customized crown has been created, we will place it into the abutment. Often it is screwed in so that it is held securely. Keep in mind that dental implants can replace one or more missing teeth. The process, however, is the same. If you are getting a partial, a bridge, or dentures, you will undergo the above and then rather than just placing the dental crown, your dentist will place the restoration.Why Do I Need Bone Grafting?
Don’t be alarmed if your dentist recommends bone grafting before you can move forward with the procedure for dental implants. Good bone density is required for a dental implant since the implant itself must be able to fuse with the jawbone. If it can’t do so successfully, it will not become a sturdy and secure anchor. To help fill in where the bone is lacking, bone grafting may be required. During this treatment, additional bone is added to your jawbone to build up its density for a future implant. Keep in mind that this will require additional time for healing before you can move forward.Dental Implant Procedures at Ryan Senft, DDS
Are you a good candidate for dental implants? Dr. Ryan Senft, DDS, and his team have extensive experience in successfully placing implants, giving many patients the opportunity to enhance their quality of life. If you’d like to find out whether or not dental implants are a good option for your dental needs, contact us today at 408-996-8595. Or, request an appointment online.Obstructive sleep apnea can steal away your quality sleep leaving you feeling exhausted before you even get your day started. While some people are aware that they suffer from these conditions, others have no idea. But, if you have any of these symptoms, it could be time to talk to your doctor or dentist:
- Loud snoring
- Tiredness
- Morning headaches
- Waking up gasping or choking throughout the night
- Depression
- Irritability
- Waking up with a dry mouth and/or sore throat
The good news is that there are treatments available that can help you find relief from what you are experiencing. You can finally get the much-needed quality rest that you deserve.
Treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea
When it comes to treating sleep apnea, there is a common misconception that the only solution is a large CPAP machine that you wear over your face at night. This is simply not the case. While it may be required for more extensive cases of the condition, there are more simple - and comfortable - treatments available for mild and moderate sleep apnea.
Because obstructive sleep apnea occurs as the result of an obstructive airway while sleeping, oral appliances can be used to open the airway and allow air to flow easily with each breath you take. A 3D impression is taken of your mouth so that the treatment is custom-fit and comfortable for you to wear at night.
Two effective oral appliances to consider are the DreamTAP Appliance and the AM Aligner. They work by pulling the lower jaw forward and positioning the tongue in a way that keeps the airway open.
These oral appliances are made differently in how they get they move the jaw, but they are both effective in their treatment.
To benefit from them, you simply place the oral appliance in your mouth before you go to bed. As you sleep, it works, holding the jaw right where it needs to be so that you can breathe properly.
Many patients find that wearing an oral appliance is a much more enjoyable option than a CPAP mask. Discuss your sleep apnea concerns with your dentist and see if either of these oral appliances may be the key to your good night’s rest.
Dangers of Not Treating Sleep Apnea
Leaving sleep apnea untreated can be dangerous for your health - and it can really begin to impact your overall quality of life.
Untreated sleep apnea raises your risk for heart attacks, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, and anxiety. It can impact your relationships, your ability to properly handle your work, and even make driving a car dangerous.
If you think you are suffering from sleep apnea, seek help.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment in Cupertino
Are you - or do you think you may be - suffering from obstructive sleep apnea? If so, then you need to seek treatment. Dr. Ryan Senft, DDS offers easy solutions for sleep apnea that can help you breathe better and feel healthier.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 408-996-8595.
Those who are looking for a discreet way to address mild to moderate orthodontic issues have found success with Invisalign. With invisible aligners that are able to be removed when needed, this treatment offers flexibility that can’t be found with traditional braces.
Invisalign may be convenient, but how long does it take to straighten teeth? Believe it or not, the patient plays a big role in determining the treatment time.
Invisalign’s Timeline
Simply put, the amount of time it takes for Invisalign to transform a smile successfully will vary from patient to patient based on their treatment needs. The average treatment time is about 12 to 18 months. Though those with very mild orthodontic needs may require a shorter treatment time - maybe even as little as 9 months! Patients with moderate treatment needs may require the full 18 months.
Before deciding if Invisalign is right for you, your dentist should be able to give you an idea of how quickly you can see the results so you know what to expect.
Factors that Can Affect Treatment Time
As mentioned, there is no set time frame for Invisalign to work for everyone. Two patients can start treatment at the same time and finish in very different timeframes. And that is because everyone is different. Let’s take a look at a few factors that can affect treatment time.
Consistent use. In order for Invisalign aligners to do their job and stay within the treatment timeline, it is necessary to wear them for a minimum of 20 to 22 hours every day. Without doing so, you will find that treatment will take longer.
Age of the patient. Younger patients, including adolescents, tend to see faster response times when using Invisalign. Their teeth tend to be much more responsive which leads to shorter treatment times. Older adults can achieve the same end result - it just takes a little longer to get there.
Treatment needs/adjustments. Your dentist will give you a tentative treatment timeline so you will have an idea of how you can expect it to take. However, if your follow-ups don’t reflect the desired level of change, adjustments could be made and your length of treatment could be extended.
In addition to the things that can delay treatment, there are a few things you can do to ensure you get the most efficient and timely results. For instance, listening to your dentist is crucial. You will be given a box of aligners, instructions on how often you should change them, and follow-up appointments that you should never disregard. It is important to stay in contact with your dentist throughout treatment just in case there are any adjustments that need to be made.
Wearing your aligners as much as you can is always beneficial, too. This ensures that your treatment is working. And when you do have to take them out, investing in an aligner case is a great way to keep it from getting lost or damaged.
The more determined you are to get through your Invisalign treatment in a timely manner, the greater the chance you will do so successfully.
Learn More About Invisalign
Invisalign can transform smiles and boost your overall oral health in a matter of months under the supervision of Ryan Senft, DDS.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 408-996-8595.
Cosmetic dentistry can transform your smile, making your appearance more radiant. We offer cosmetic dentistry that can provide the attractive smile you want for a beautiful you.
While we are always focused on providing and maintaining the best oral health for you, and the full functioning of your teeth, our cosmetic dentistry services will use advanced technology and skill to give you the confidence to look your best. Whether you want veneers, teeth whitening, or a full smile makeover, we can help.
What is Cosmetic Dentistry Exactly?
Cosmetic dentistry is any dental procedure focusing on the appearance of the teeth, rather than health. Of course some dental procedures such as Cerec 1-Day Crowns and dental implants can help both your health and the attractiveness of your smile.
Cosmetic dentistry can:
- Close gaps between teeth
- Adjust the length and size of teeth
- Whiten stained or yellow teeth
- Fill in chips
- Straighten teeth that are misaligned
Teeth Whitening
Teeth naturally lose their brightness over time, becoming stained or discolored for a variety of reasons from taking certain medications to the consumption of coffee, tea, or red wine over time. Teeth can also become stained due to tobacco use, aging, and natural color shifts. We offer both in-office and professional take-home teeth whitening kits.
Invisalign® Clear Aligners
Invisalign® is a comfortable, efficient, and discreet technique for teeth straightening. Using a custom-made series of aligner trays created from smooth and discreet plastic your teeth will gradually and gently shift into place, with no unsightly metal brackets to attach and no wires to tighten. Invisalign aligners are removable when you eat, and easy to keep clean while maintaining your own, regular dental hygiene. So, you’ll achieve a great smile with very little interference in your daily life without most people even noticing you’re straightening your teeth.
Veneers
Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain or composite material that recreate the natural appearance of teeth. Durable and attractive, they can disguise cracks, chips, discoloration, and correct gaps in teeth. Veneers are long-lasting and stain resistant. We offer porcelain, composite, and instant veneers to improve the look of your teeth easily.
Cosmetic Bonding
Like veneers, cosmetic bonding can also be used to improve the appearance of your teeth or a single tooth. The bonding process fills or restores teeth using a tooth-colored material in order to improve appearance. Bonding material is added to the tooth structure to adjust the size, shape, or color of the existing tooth.
How Much Does Cosmetic Dentistry Cost in Cupertino, CA?
The cost of Invisalign in Cupertino ranges from $3000 to $7000, depending on the number of aligners required and the length of your treatment.
Veneers average $500 to $2500 per tooth; porcelain veneers are more expensive than composites. Teeth bonding costs range between $100 and $400 per tooth.
Professional teeth whitening ranges from $300 to $800 and depends upon the method of whitening you choose.
In general, insurance doesn’t cover cosmetic dentistry, although some procedures offer both dental health benefits and benefit appearance, such as Invisalign, or crowns, and may be covered by dental insurance.
We offer financing with CareCredit to help you pay for cosmetic dental procedures. CareCredit offers low monthly payments and reasonable interest rates.
Ready to Learn More About Cosmetic Dentistry?
If you’re ready to learn more about cosmetic dentistry, reach out to us today! We’re happy to help you achieve the smile of your dreams!
When people talk about dental implants, they often use the term as a catch-all for a variety of different procedures. Technically speaking, the term “dental implant” really only refers to the post that is placed in the jawbone to support restorations; the restorations available for dental implants range from crowns to full sets of dentures. Below, we discuss the different types of dental implants and restorations.
Single-Tooth Dental Implants
Single-tooth dental implants are the closest restoration to a natural tooth in terms of function, feel, and appearance. A single dental implant is used to support a single dental crown, with the two pieces connected by an abutment. With a carefully designed crown that blends in seamlessly with the rest of your smile, no one will ever suspect that you have a dental implant!
Implant-Supported Bridges
When three or more adjacent teeth are missing or need to be extracted and replaced, implant-supported bridges are often recommended. For this type of restoration, only the outermost missing roots are replaced with dental implants, which is a more cost-effective solution than replacing each individual missing tooth with its own implant. The two implants are used to support an arch of prosthetic teeth, or pontics.
Implant-supported bridges are a great alternative to traditional bridges because they are sturdy and long-lasting. To support a traditional bridge, healthy teeth on each side of your missing teeth must be cut down so crowns can be placed. This can put their health at risk, leaving them more prone to fractures and deterioration. Because implant-supported bridges are self-supporting, they have no effect on adjacent teeth.
Implant-Supported Dentures
There are a number of different implant-supported denture options, including full or partial dentures that are fixed or removable. Dentures that are supported by implants are more comfortable to wear and often more natural-looking; they don’t rock, slip, or cause painful sores in the mouth. Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures also prevent jaw bone loss, resulting in a stronger bite and more youthful appearance.
Full Arch With Only Four Implants
With this restoration, we replace a full upper or lower arch of teeth with just four dental implants for support. This restoration, unlike implant-supported dentures, is fixed and cannot be removed for cleaning like snap-on dentures. Patients who are not candidates for traditional dental implants without bone grafting or a sinus lift may be eligible for this procedure.
Mini Dental Implants
Because mini dental implants (MDIs) are smaller than conventional dental implants, they require less support from the jawbone. This means that if you've experienced bone loss in the jaw, mini dental implants may be a viable treatment option even if you're not a candidate for traditional implants. MDIs may also be recommended for patients who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk for surgical complications, as they can be completed in a single office visit.
Learn More About the Types of Dental Implants
If you’d like to learn more about dental implants, contact us today at 408-996-8595 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Senft.
Quality sleep is crucial for a healthy life. During the deepest moments of sleep, the body begins to care for and restore itself. When you can't get this sleep, your overall health and wellbeing become impacted.
Sleep apnea is a rather serious sleep disorder because it means your breathing stops and starts during sleep. And while it may be caused due to many different things, obstructive sleep apnea is referred to as such because it occurs when the throat muscles relax and block (obstruct) your airway.
Signs and Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
One of the most common signs of obstructive sleep apnea is snoring. Though, it is important to note that not all snorers suffer from this condition. A few of the most common signs and symptoms are:
- Extreme fatigue and drowsiness during the day
- Loud snoring
- Difficulty concentrating throughout the day
- Irritability
- High blood pressure
- Waking up with dry mouth and/or sore throat
- Waking abruptly in the night, gasping for air or choking
If you are excessively tired during the day, wake up with a sore jaw, wake up gasping or choking, or snore so loudly that you disturb others, you should reach out to your dentist for a checkup.
Not addressing signs of obstructive sleep apnea can result in a greater risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke.
Who is at Risk?
Nobody is safe from developing obstructive sleep apnea, but there are a few risk factors that increase the likelihood for certain individuals. These include:
- Being overweight
- High blood pressure (this seems to go hand-in-hand with obstructive sleep apnea)
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Chronic nasal congestion or allergies
- Males two times more likely to be diagnosed
- Asthma
- Small airways
- Family history
Again - even if you don’t have any of these risk factors, you may still develop obstructive sleep apnea.
The Role of Your Dentist and Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Don’t be surprised if your dentist asks you about your sleep. Dentists often look for signs of teeth grinding, inflamed or receding gums, a spike in cavities, etc. Clenched jaws can often find their way into your sleep - disrupting it and wreaking havoc on your oral health.
Your dentist has methods and tools that are used to treat obstructive sleep apnea so that you may begin sleeping peacefully. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, oral appliances, breathing machines, or surgery. For mild cases, oral appliance therapy may be used. It works by repositioning the tongue and lower jaw to keep the soft tissues from blocking your airway.
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, contact your dentist.
Learn More About Obstructive Sleep Apnea at Ryan Senft, DDS
To learn more about the obstructive sleep apnea treatment offered by Ryan Senft, DDS, or to schedule an appointment, contact our office at 408-996-8595 . We use the latest technology and most beneficial methods of treating your sleep apnea.
Isn’t it time to start waking up rested and rejuvenated?
Toddlers are enthusiastic learners, which is why these years are critical when it comes to laying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. They want to be just like their parents and older siblings, so there’s no better time to teach them dental hygiene habits like brushing and flossing. Here are some tips for keeping your child's smile bright and healthy through their toddler years and beyond.
Establish a Dental Home
We want to build a relationship with you and your child that makes our practice your "dental home." A dental home means your child will see our practice as a comfortable and safe environment. It's natural for children to be nervous about dental visits when they're few and far between, only happening when they’re in pain or need a cavity filled. Your child gets to know us and we get to know them with regular dental exams every six months, which means our office becomes a happy place filled with friendly faces.
The American Dental Association recommends that children begin seeing the dentist at the age of 12 months, or shortly after their first tooth erupts, as part of the process of establishing a dental home. Some parents are curious as to why toddlers need to see a dentist—how could they possibly have dental issues when they only have one or two teeth? At this early age, dental visits are primarily about teaching parents what they need to know to prevent tooth decay and creating a relationship of trust with your child.
Work as a Team
Brushing your child's teeth should be viewed as a collaborative effort; a toddler simply doesn’t have the dexterity or attention span to brush thoroughly on their own. Start brushing your toddler's teeth with a soft-bristled or silicone toothbrush once those first few teeth appear, using a very small amount of fluoride toothpaste—the size of a grain of rice is all you need. Brush their teeth twice a day, every day, to get them used to the routine.
When your child is old enough to understand how to brush, hand over the toothbrush to them and let them give it a try after you brush their teeth for 2 minutes. This empowers your toddler by allowing them to take an active role in their dental health. Because you're doing the actual cleaning, you can let them have some fun while teaching them how to take care of their teeth.
When your child reaches preschool-age, you can switch places and allow them to brush first, then take a turn and brush all those hard-to-reach places to make sure the teeth are thoroughly cleaned.
Set a Good Example
You can tell children that eating nutritious snacks is important for their dental health, but if they see you eating candy and sipping sugary soda all day, you’re not providing a good example. When your child is a toddler, you are their most significant role model. If you do everything you can to take care of your teeth, it makes it easy for your child to do the same.
Learn More About Toddler Dental Health
If you’d like to discuss how to take care of your toddler’s teeth, contact us today at 408-996-8595 to schedule an appointment.
