Maintaining healthy teeth is vital for your overall well-being, and understanding the early signs of dental issues, such as cavities, plays a crucial role. At Classic Dental Arts, we emphasize comprehensive general dentistry and patient education to help you identify problems before they worsen. 

This guide explains what a cavity feels like, how to spot early signs, and ways to manage cavity-related pain effectively.

What Causes Cavities?

Dental cavities, or caries, form when mouth bacteria create acids that wear down tooth enamel. This starts with plaque, a sticky layer on teeth after consuming sugary or starchy foods. Without regular brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, which speeds up the decay process.

Several factors contribute to cavity formation:

• Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.
• Diet Choices: Frequent consumption of sugary or acidic foods and drinks increases the risk.
• Dry Mouth: Saliva helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids. A lack of saliva can make teeth more vulnerable.
• Genetic Factors: Some people have naturally weaker enamel or deep grooves in their teeth, making them more prone to decay.

Understanding these causes empowers you to take preventive steps, protecting your teeth from future problems.

Identifying Cavities

Catching cavities early can prevent more serious dental issues. While some signs are subtle, recognizing tooth cavity symptoms is the first step in effective treatment.

Early Indicators

• White Spots: These chalky areas on teeth signal the beginning stages of decay, known as demineralization.
• Tooth Sensitivity: A sharp reaction to hot, cold, or sweet foods often indicates enamel damage.
• Discoloration: Dark spots or stains may appear as the cavity worsens.

As the decay progresses, you might notice more apparent signs, such as visible holes or pits in the tooth surface. However, some cavities can only be detected through a professional examination. At Classic Dental Arts, our comprehensive check-ups, including X-rays, help identify even the smallest signs of tooth decay.

Cavity Pain: What to Expect

One of the most common questions patients ask is, "What does a cavity feel like?" The experience can vary depending on the stage of decay.

Types of Cavity Pain

• Sensitivity Pain: This is often the first indication of a problem. You might feel a sudden, sharp discomfort when eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet.
• Throbbing Pain: As the cavity reaches deeper layers of the tooth, it can irritate the pulp and nerves, causing persistent or throbbing tooth pain.
• Pain When Chewing: Cavities weaken the tooth structure, leading to discomfort when applying pressure while biting or chewing.

The pain typically intensifies as the decay progresses. In advanced stages, you might experience constant aching, especially at night. If left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to abscesses that require more extensive treatment.

Misconceptions About Cavity Pain

A common myth is that cavities always cause immediate pain. In reality, early-stage cavities might not hurt at all. This is because the enamel—the outermost layer of the tooth—has no nerve endings.

Pain usually begins when the decay reaches the dentin or pulp, where nerves and blood vessels are located. By the time you feel pain, the cavity may have already progressed significantly. Regular dental check-ups at Classic Dental Arts help detect cavities before they become painful.

What to Do If You Suspect a Cavity

If you notice signs of tooth decay, taking prompt action can prevent further damage:

1. Schedule an Appointment: Contact Classic Dental Arts to assess the situation and begin treatment.
2. Maintain Your Oral Hygiene Routine: Brush gently and floss to prevent plaque buildup. Avoid applying too much pressure, as this can worsen sensitivity.
3. Temporary Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers or oral gels can help manage discomfort until you see a dentist.

Ignoring cavity symptoms can lead to more severe issues, such as infections or tooth loss. Early intervention ensures simpler, more affordable treatment options.

Prevention: Protecting Your Smile

Preventing cavities involves a mix of daily care, mindful habits, and professional support. Here’s how you can protect your teeth:

Oral Hygiene Essentials

Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste is crucial. Fluoride strengthens enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks. Flossing once a day removes plaque from between teeth, where decay often begins. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria.

Smart Dietary Choices

Limit sugary snacks and acidic drinks, which fuel bacteria and weaken enamel. Instead, focus on nutrient-rich foods like dairy products and leafy greens. Staying hydrated supports saliva production, which naturally protects teeth.

Regular Dental Visits

Routine check-ups and dental cleanings at Classic Dental Arts are essential for catching cavities early. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, while thorough exams detect potential issues before they become serious.

Protect Your Smile with Classic Dental Arts

Don’t let cavities compromise your oral health—Classic Dental Arts is here to help. Our comprehensive dental services ensure early detection and personalized treatment, keeping your teeth healthy and strong. Our expert team is dedicated to educating you about cavity prevention and providing tailored solutions.

Take control of your dental health today! Protect your smile—contact Classic Dental Arts now!

Conclusion

Understanding what a cavity feels like and recognizing early tooth cavity symptoms can make a significant difference in your dental health. Cavities often start with subtle signs like sensitivity or white spots and can progress to intense pain if untreated. By identifying signs of tooth decay early and seeking timely care from Classic Dental Arts, you can prevent complications and keep your smile healthy.

Prioritize your dental health—schedule your next appointment with Classic Dental Arts today to stay one step ahead of cavities.

FAQs

Can a cavity heal on its own?

No, cavities cannot reverse naturally. Professional treatment is necessary to stop decay and restore the tooth.

How long can you go without treating a cavity?

Delaying treatment allows the cavity to worsen, leading to more extensive and costly procedures. It’s best to address cavities early.

What happens if a cavity is left untreated?

Untreated cavities can lead to infections, abscesses, and even tooth loss.

Can improved oral hygiene stop a cavity?

While good oral care can prevent new cavities, existing decay requires professional treatment to be fully resolved.

A smile makeover is not as difficult to achieve as some people might think. Even simple treatments can improve the appearance of a smile. With the widely available cosmetic dentistry technology today, a beautiful smile may be just around the corner. 

Procedures for a smile makeover

The first step in any smile makeover is to follow proper oral hygiene at home. Brushing and flossing should be part of a daily routine and done at least morning and night, if not after every meal. Eating a healthy diet, low in simple sugars, is also a key to maintaining healthy teeth. After ensuring good oral hygiene, here are six dental treatments that can further improve a smile.

1. Whitening

A dull, yellow smile can be off-putting. Fortunately, professional teeth whitening can drastically brighten a smile. There are also teeth whitening products available in most drugstores. The advantage of professional in-office whitening is that it gets better results in only one session. Some patients experience some temporary tooth sensitivity, but side effects are generally mild. 

2. Straightening

There are several options for straightening crooked teeth. Traditional braces with metal brackets are still a common choice, especially when there is a lot of movement required to get teeth in the desired position. Clear trays designed to gently align teeth are another option. These are recommended for patients who want to avoid the look of metal braces and whose needs can be addressed with this type of device.

3. Veneers

One way to achieve a smile makeover is to have veneers fabricated. Veneers are made of porcelain or dental composite. They are often used to repair chipped or broken teeth but can also improve a discolored smile, teeth that are an unusual size or any number of other cosmetic issues. A veneer can be placed on one tooth or multiple. Often, multiple veneers are placed on adjacent teeth to create the look of a bright, straight smile.

4. Crowns

Dental crowns are used to repair weak or damaged teeth. They can also improve the appearance and the function of teeth. Crowns are attached directly to the tooth in a fairly simple process.

5. Implants

When teeth are damaged beyond repair or are missing, often the solution is a permanent implant. Dental implants are surgically anchored into the upper or lower jaw bone and then a prosthetic tooth is attached. They are also used to support fixed dentures.

6. Dental checkups

To keep teeth looking great, they need to be healthy. Semi-annual checkups at the dentist help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. At these checkups, teeth are cleaned and polished, removing stains and leaving a brighter smile.

Conclusion 

Whether a smile makeover requires simple or more complicated procedures, there are always options for improvement. Often, improving the health of your smile goes hand in hand with improving its appearance. People seeking a beautiful smile should remember that along with cosmetic procedures and treatments, daily oral healthcare is a must.

Request an appointment here: https://www.classicdentalarts.com or call Classic Dental Arts at (732) 204-7719 for an appointment in our Manalapan Township office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Smile Makeover in Manalapan Township, NJ.

Wondering if implant supported dentures are the right for you? In order to make the right choice, it is necessary to understand everything there is to know about all types of dentures.

About implant supported dentures

Considering implant supported dentures but want to understand more about the details? This denture choice requires one to undergo a dental implant placement surgical procedure. This means the process of getting dentures supported by implants will take longer compared to other denture choices. When it comes to how many dental implants one will need to have placed, there are many different factors that come into play.

Placing implants to support implant supported dentures

In order for someone to be approved to get implant supported dentures, they first need to undergo a thorough dental examination. This is to check the overall health of their mouth, as well as to make sure that they have enough jawbone to support the placement of dental implants. Placing implants requires patients to undergo a minor surgical procedure, as the implants are inserted directly into the jawbone. Since placing implants requires minor surgery, patients can expect the healing process to last somewhere between three and six months.

Deciding how many implants are necessary

It is the dental implants that allow this type of denture to stay securely in place. This means that the more dental implants one has to support their dentures, the more secure they can expect their dentures to be. When it comes to how many implants are necessary to support dentures, it depends on whether a patient is in need of partial dentures or full dentures. It also depends on how dense one's jawbone is, as it may take more implants to provide a stable foundation for patients who do not have much healthy jawbone.

While many patients may only require two, three or four implants to support a strong foundation, others will need more implants placed. Some dental professionals will recommend that their patients get five or more implants to hold their lower dentures in place and six implants to hold their upper dentures in place. When it comes to how many implants that a patient can have placed at one time, there is not a limit. That said, there are a few factors to consider before undergoing a multiple dental implant placement procedure, e.g., post-surgical effects, etc.

Got questions?

Those who have questions can bring a list with them to their consultation appointment. One of the questions that dental patients need to ask is how many implants they will need to have placed in their mouths in order to experience the benefit of having dentures supported by implants.

Are you considering implant supported dentures in the Manalapan Township area? Get more information at https://www.classicdentalarts.com.

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For years, Botox® has been a method to treat various health conditions and wellness issues. People have looked to this treatment to smooth wrinkles and other blemishes of the face. This drug is a toxin made from a specific bacterium, and it has many other uses today. You may even find that it is useful in dentistry. If you are having problems with TMJ, teeth grinding, or other problems with your smile, this drug might be able to help.

How Botox works

This drug is well-known, though many people are unaware of its function. This treatment relaxes the muscles by blocking signals from the brain to the nerves. It is injected into the body through a small needle. The procedure only takes a few minutes and requires no numbing beforehand. Within a week or two, patients should start to see results from the drug. Its effects can last up to six months, at which time the patient can get another dose.

Help with teeth grinding and jaw problems

Teeth grinding can be more than an annoying habit. Doing this over a consistent, long period can wear teeth. This can eventually cause fracturing or even tooth loss. Another common problem that dentists treat is TMJ. This is a condition where the joint that connects the jaw to the skull has pain here. When it is present, it can become difficult to eat, speak, or yawn.

Botox can be an effective treatment for both of these issues. Through an injection, patients can find pain relief and feel less discomfort. The drug can relax the muscles that suffer strain under both of these conditions. The shot will not permanently alleviate the pain, so the dentist may set up a long-term treatment plan.

Getting used to mouth appliances

Dentists can offer a variety of treatments for issues such as tooth loss, misaligned teeth, and damaged teeth. Among these, dentures are one of the most widely used methods. However, many patients struggle to get accustomed to dentures. The appliance can cause soreness and irritation on the gums and in the jaw. Some dentists may use Botox shots to help ease the muscles so that the patient can experience a smoother transition to dentures.

Fixing high lip lines

Many concerns can affect a person’s smile. Having a high lip line can be embarrassing and make a person feel self-conscious. When a person with this issue smiles, much of the gums are exposed. A dental practice can use Botox to help correct this troubling issue. Relaxing the mouth muscles with Botox can lower the lip line to a more desirable level for the person. While there are other procedures to accomplish this, Botox offers much less of a financial commitment.

Try a different approach to change your smile

When you think about Botox, you may not even realize that it is available for dental procedures. When the muscles of the face have pain or affect the smile, this drug could be useful. Find out if your dentist’s office offers this method. Talk to your dentist today if you believe you are a candidate for this treatment.

Are you considering Botox in the Manalapan Township area? Get more information at https://www.classicdentalarts.com.

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Periodontics focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating the issues that affect your gums, like gum disease. Gum disease is one of the most common reasons that people head to a dentist, and an infection of gum tissues is what causes it.

Bacteria in plaque and tartar can make their way below the gumline into gum pockets, triggering a response from the immune system. The body’s attempt to fight the infection is what causes the chronic inflammation associated with gum disease.

Gum disease occurs in two stages. The first is called gingivitis, and it can be reversed with improvements to your oral hygiene and treatments like teeth cleanings. The second stage is called periodontitis, and there is no way to reverse it. However, periodontics can help manage the condition using treatments like root scaling and planing, gum flap surgery, and bone grafts.

Improving your oral hygiene routine with periodontics

Let us go over a few of the things that patients can do to keep their teeth healthy and how periodontics can help.

1. Brush twice daily

Brushing twice a day can help keep gum tissues and teeth healthy. Plaque builds up on teeth during the day, and it accumulates at the areas that teeth and gum tissues meet the most. Plaque contains oral bacteria and the acids that they produce.

Plaque can be removed by brushing, so good brushing habits go a long way to prevent plaque from damaging teeth and infecting gum tissues. Plaque calcifies and turns into tartar when left on teeth surfaces for prolonged periods, creating a new set of problems.

Tartar also contains oral bacteria and the acids that they produce, but it cannot be removed by brushing. That means tartar can accumulate on the teeth before a dentist can get rid of it during teeth cleaning. Good brushing habits help keep tartar accumulation on the teeth to a minimum. Gum tissues should be brushed during these sessions as well.

2. Floss daily

Flossing once per day removes plaque and debris from interdental spaces and the places that teeth meet the gum tissues. Removing plaque and the bacteria inside it from these areas helps combat any infection of the tissues there.

Flossing also helps give gum tissues the stimulation that they need to remain healthy. It is not uncommon for gum tissues to bleed after a long break from flossing. Flossing helps keep gum tissues healthy, making it easier for them to fight off infection.

3. Use an antibacterial mouthwash

An antibacterial mouthwash helps limit the bacteria population in the mouth. This lowers the risk of gum tissues becoming infected. Periodontics also provides prescription mouth rinses to patients who have a higher risk of developing gum disease.

Take advantage of periodontics

Good oral hygiene is just one part of the equation when it comes to keeping your gum tissues healthy. Treatments like teeth cleanings are just as necessary because they get rid of plaque and tartar, protecting you against gum disease. Give us a call or visit our Manalapan Township clinic to set up an appointment with our dentist for more tips on how to take care of your gums.

Request an appointment here: https://www.classicdentalarts.com or call Classic Dental Arts at (732) 577-9000 for an appointment in our Manalapan Township office.

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Done regularly, dental cleanings contributes to a person’s long-term oral health. Professional teeth cleaning removes plaque buildup, targeting hard-to-reach spots that you may miss when you brush and floss.

Usually, professional dental cleaning takes place in two contexts, the first being a routine checkup. General dentists incorporate teeth cleaning into routine dental visits after they examine the teeth and give their patients a clean bill of health. During these routine checks, the dentist will perform standard dental cleaning that targets the structures above the gumline.

The second scenario is when a dentist recommends deep cleaning. A dentist will recommend this option for patients who have gone a while without getting a routine dental cleaning. Such patients may have significant plaque and tartar buildup. Here is the difference between standard and deep dental cleaning.

Standard vs deep dental cleaning: a comparison

Standard or prophylaxis dental cleaning takes less than an hour to complete. Usually, the dentist does the procedure during a routine dental checkup after they confirm that their patient is free of serious dental problems. 

Standard cleaning follows an exam of the gum pockets. The dentist starts by using a dental scaler to remove plaque buildup. Next, they use gritty toothpaste to polish the teeth. The dentist concludes the cleaning with a round of flossing and fluoride treatment.

Deep dental cleaning goes further. Also known as scaling and root planing, deep cleaning targets any plaque and tartar buildup that extends below the gumline. It is a procedure geared towards people with gum disease. Scaling and root planing takes place under anesthesia and may take an hour, maybe two. It all depends on the extent of the buildup. The dentist will usually end the procedure by administering antibiotics.

Preparing for a dental cleaning

There are a few things that a patient needs to do before they step inside the dentist’s office. Here are some of the most important ones.

1. Learn about the procedure and what it entails

Find out what to expect from the procedure. This information helps to plan for considerations like after care or a ride home. 

The dentist will tell their patients what to expect from dental cleaning depending on the individual’s situation. A patient who needs scaling and root planing may not be in a position to drive home, and that is a useful piece of information to have before the procedure.

2. Take care of the logistics

The patient should confirm their appointment to eliminate any chance of a scheduling conflict. If the patient is visiting a new dentist, they should make sure that their dental records and other pertinent information reach said dentist.

3. Discuss dental anxiety if it is an issue

Many people hate going to the dentist because of the memories, smells and sounds of the dentist’s chair. Talk to the dentist and find out if they can make arrangements to help with anxiety.

4. Consult the doctor and dentist about ongoing medical conditions

Long and short term medical conditions can affect the outcome of a dental procedure. This means that the input of a physician is needed for patients who:

• are on heart medication or blood thinners.
• have weakened or suppressed immune systems.
• have medical implants of any kind.

Informing the dentist of such medical conditions allows them to adjust treatment to meet the needs of their patient.  For example, a patient on blood thinners may be a better candidate for laser gum procedures or ultrasonic scaling that cause little to no bleeding.

5. Discuss dental problems

A person who has a cavity or some other dental problem should inform the dentist in advance. This information allows the dentist to craft a course of action that addresses the oral health problem.

6. Brush and floss diligently in the days leading up to the appointment

Brush your teeth before leaving home for the dentist’s office. Not only is this practice good for your oral health, but it also helps out the dentist as they work on the mouth. This tip applies at all times, whether or not a professional dental cleaning is in the books. However, this does not mean that a person should go overboard. They should simply stick to their regular oral hygiene routines.

A healthy set of teeth is easy to maintain

With routine dental cleaning, you can keep your teeth healthy and free of plaque buildup. Teeth cleaning also gives our dentist the chance to check for emergent dental problems. These are just two of many reasons why you should call our office and schedule an appointment today.

Request an appointment here: https://www.classicdentalarts.com or call Classic Dental Arts at (732) 577-9000 for an appointment in our Manalapan Township office.

Check out what others are saying about our implant services on Google:: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Manalapan Township, NJ.

Invisalign® has become a popular choice among adult and teenage patients. Unlike traditional methods of teeth straightening, Invisalign® offers patients an array of benefits, including an easy treatment process and flexibility. 

One common question that comes up when considering teeth straightening is whether patients should visit an orthodontist or general dentist for treatment. Each patient is different, meaning that their needs may vary. However, there are typically a few guidelines that patients can refer to when considering Invisalign®.

Invisalign®

Outlined below is the treatment process of Invisalign®, as well as a brief overview of the dental professionals who offer it. 

The treatment process

Invisalign® is a type of clear aligners used to address misalignments with the teeth or bite issues with the jaw. They are removable aligner pieces that go directly over the top or bottom arch. If both arches require correction, then the patient will wear two aligners at a time.

Invisalign® is a unique option for teeth straightening because the treatment progress relies heavily on the patient's discipline. Because the aligners are removable, it can be easy to take them out and forget about them. However, in order for progress to be made, patients must wear their aligners for at least 22 hours each day. Throughout the course of treatment, patients will visit their dentist or orthodontist every few weeks for adjustments, which consists of switching out the old aligner for a new one. Additionally, the progress will be monitored to ensure that everything is on track. 

General dentist

Invisalign® treatment typically begins at a general dentist's office. Most patients visit a general dentist for a recommendation and evaluation to determine if Invisalign® is even an option because some patients are not good candidates. If the patient does turn out to be a good candidate, the general dentist may start treatment right away. However, not all practices offer Invisalign®, which is when the dentist may refer the patient out to an orthodontist. 

In some scenarios, patients may prefer to visit an orthodontist for Invisalign® treatment because their sole focus is correcting misalignments. However, one benefit of undergoing treatment at a general dentist's office is that routine cleanings can still take place at the same practice, making it more convenient. General dentists can monitor the patient's oral health while administering Invisalign® treatment, which can be advantageous for patients who have oral health concerns. 

Orthodontist

If the patient is referred out to an orthodontist for Invisalign® treatment, then they will likely need to visit their general dentist at the same time. Additionally, if the patient prefers to visit an orthodontist for treatment, then they should expect to also see their general dentist regularly for routine care.

Orthodontists are great resources to make use of when undergoing teeth straightening treatment. They specialize in correcting misalignments in the teeth and jaw, which makes them experts at administering Invisalign®. 

Get started today!

Interested in undergoing the Invisalign® treatment process? Working with a general dentist to begin the process is the best place to start. Reach out today to get started or to learn more about Invisalign®.

Are you considering Invisalign® in the Manalapan Township area? Get more information at https://www.classicdentalarts.com.

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Considering dental Botox®? Botox® has most commonly been used to improve facial features for cosmetic purposes, however, dentists have found that it can be quite beneficial for treating patients who suffer from TMJ disorders, bruxism, and jaw clenching. Nonetheless, because the practice is newer to dentistry, there are still some questions. For example, a lot of dental patients wonder how painful, if any, the procedure is. Read on to learn more about the dental applications of Botox®.

Understanding dental Botox®

Below is a quick overview of dental Botox, including what it is and how painful the process may be. This information can be helpful to individuals who are exploring treatment options for TMJ and other oral issues.

Dental Botox® defined

Botox consists of injections that contain botulinum toxin, which is a neurotoxic protein. As Botox relates to dentistry, the goal is to tackle dental-related issues, such as TMJ disorders, bruxism, and jaw clenching, all of which can have a negative impact on the teeth and the entire oral cavity.

Typically, general and cosmetic dentists offer dental Botox. Generally, Botox is administered a couple of times a month directly into the facial muscles. The procedure does not take more than 20 minutes.

Pain and discomfort

Individuals who are considering dental Botox but are not sure about what to expect should know that there is some slight discomfort at the injection site during and after the procedure. Because needle injections are used, there may be some slight bruising and swelling afterward, both of which are completely normal.

Patients are advised to avoid ice or cold compresses after the injection as this can get in the way of the results. However, a gentle facial massage can be done to spread the injections around into the muscles. Dentists also recommend that the patient avoids physical activity immediately following the procedure as this gives the face and entire body a chance to heal and adapt to the dental Botox.

Other things to know

It is important to know that dental Botox is not for everyone. Each person has varying needs, which means they may not always respond to the injections in the same way. Some people notice results within a couple of days, whereas others may never see the desired results. Additionally, it is good to understand that dental Botox is used primarily to improve the way patients feel, as opposed to cosmetic correction. Some conditions, like gummy smiles, can be addressed with dental Botox; however, dentists primarily administer it to patients suffering from facial soreness, pain, or dysfunction.

Find out more about dental Botox®

When looking for further information on dental Botox, it is best to consult directly with a general dentist who can provide specific details. To start, the dentist will perform an evaluation in order to determine the most appropriate course of action. The patient can also ask questions or go over concerns regarding the treatment. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.classicdentalarts.com or call Classic Dental Arts at (732) 577-9000 for an appointment in our Manalapan Township office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

A chipped tooth is not always a serious dental condition unless the damage reaches the pulp chamber. However, that does not mean it is okay to ignore a chipped tooth simply because it is not causing pain. The most likely part of a tooth to be affected by a chip is the outer layer known as enamel, but that is also the part that protects the rest of the tooth.  

The loss of enamel leaves the more sensitive inner layers of a tooth without its natural protection from acids and bacteria. As a result, the tooth is more vulnerable to tooth decay and gum disease. To make matters worse, the tooth might become infected if it is left untreated. Regardless of how minor the damage to a tooth is, it is best to have a dentist evaluate the injury and determine the best way to treat it.

Protecting a chipped tooth from further damage

The best way to prevent a chipped tooth from turning into a bigger oral problem is by getting it checked out by a dentist. Dentists have treatments at their disposal that can be used to fix any aesthetic issues caused by the damage and to prevent further damage from occurring.

Standard treatments used to treat chipped teeth

Composite bonding: This is one of the more affordable treatments performed by dentists. It involves applying a moldable composite to the patient's teeth and rebuilding it. Composites are made from mixtures of plastics and glass. They can be color-matched with the patient's teeth to ensure that any repairs look natural in the mouth. The application of composite resin is a reversible treatment, so patients can still explore other options down the road. The application of composite resin on a damaged tooth typically takes less than an hour for each tooth being treated.

Crowns: These are one of the most commonly used restorations by dentists and are a great way to protect a chipped tooth. The crown covers the part of the tooth that is visible above the gums and protects it from bite forces, bacteria and acids. Crowns are designed to look like real teeth, making it virtually impossible to tell when a person has a crown on one of their teeth. Fitting a tooth with a crown requires the dentist to remove enamel from all four sides. This leads to a better fit with the crown. It is an irreversible process, so the tooth will always need a crown to protect it moving forward.

Veneers: These restorations are only used when the damage affects strictly the front part of the tooth. Veneers serve as masks that hide flaws, and they protect that area from acids and bacteria.

Protect your chipped tooth

Drop by our Manalapan Township clinic, or give us a call to learn more about how we can protect your chipped tooth from further damage.

Request an appointment here: https://www.classicdentalarts.com or call Classic Dental Arts at (732) 577-9000 for an appointment in our Manalapan Township office.

Check out what others are saying about our implant services on Google:: Chipped Tooth in Manalapan Township, NJ.

Professional dental cleaning appointments are an important part of maintaining good oral health. They are typically offered by general dentistry practices as these are the facilities where routine oral health care is provided. While most people do get a professional dental cleaning once or twice a year, there are individuals who skip them, which is not a good idea. 

Questions and answers about dental cleanings from a general dentist

Below are a few frequently asked questions about professional dental cleanings. When curious about this general dentistry service, it can be helpful to review the following information.

How often is it necessary to get a dental cleaning?

It is necessary to get a professional dental cleaning at least twice a year. The majority of people, both children and adults, should undergo a professional dental cleaning every six months. However, some people, such as those who are at risk of developing certain oral conditions, may opt to get them done every three months or four times a year. 

Do professional dental cleanings hurt?

No, professional dental cleanings do not hurt. There are a few types of dental cleanings that may induce some discomfort; however, these are only done for individuals who have gum disease. General dentists remedy any discomfort with medication and other treatments.

How long does a professional dental cleaning take?

Most people will spend about an hour at their general dentistry practice when undergoing a professional dental cleaning. Individuals with a lot of plaque or tartar buildup may have a lengthier appointment; however, those who practice good oral hygiene at home may spend less than 30 minutes in the chair. 

Are there any benefits to getting dental cleanings?

Yes! There are a ton of benefits that come with getting a professional dental cleaning. The main benefit is that it helps individuals maintain good oral health. Dental cleanings keep plaque and tartar at a bare minimum, which means the teeth and gums should remain in relatively good health. 

Can a professional dental cleaning prevent cavities and gum disease?

Yes! Oral hygiene at home is crucial in maintaining good oral health; however, professional dental cleanings also help keep the teeth and gums in good shape. Professional hygienists and dentists have instruments that are better at removing plaque and tartar, both of which cause cavities and gum disease. 

Is fluoride a part of the professional dental cleaning process?

Sometimes. Although a dental cleaning is usually recommended twice a year, individuals typically only get a fluoride application once a year. Too much fluoride can actually do harm to the enamel, which defeats the purpose. However, those who have weak enamel may be required to get a fluoride application two or three times a year. 

Find out more about professional dental cleanings

When looking for more information on professional dental cleanings, consult with a general dentist. An evaluation can be done in order to determine how often cleanings are needed. Reach out today to learn more or to get started with a consultation appointment. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.classicdentalarts.com or call Classic Dental Arts at 7322047719 for an appointment in our Manalapan Township office.

Check out what others are saying about our implant services on Google:: Dental Cleaning in Manalapan Township, NJ.