Category Archives: Oral Health

If you’re thinking about getting dentures, you probably have a lot of questions. Around 41 million people in the United States had dentures in 2020, according to Statista. Your dentist will inform you of what you need to know about denture wearing and will help prepare you for getting them. To understand the denture process, read on to get an idea of this type of dentistry.

Trust the Dentists

Dentists want you to trust them and the process. They have years of experience and education behind them, and they stay up to date on the latest techniques. They want to make sure you are confident going into any procedure that you’re going to be taken care of.

Trust Your Options

We want you to know that there are choices that you have for your dentures. There are several types on the market, and we can go over which is best for your situation.

Trust the Budget

There are several different costs that come with getting dentures. You will want to talk with us about your options and the costs associated with them. They can help you figure out the best way to pay for your upcoming dentistry.

Trust the Process

There are three stages of getting dentures. There is extraction, an optional temporary denture stage, and your final dentures. Here’s how it will work.

Tooth extraction – The dentist will pull your teeth to get ready for the dentures. All will be extracted for full dentures, but you still may need one or more pulled for partials if they aren’t healthy. Your dentist will talk with you about that.

(Optional) Temporary dentures – You may get temporary dentures to help ease the wait time between extraction and your final set. You will need to heal in the meantime as well.

Final dentures – You will have an impression made of your mouth, and your final dentures will be created. Once received, we’ll check the fitting, make adjustments, and have you begin to get used to your final set of dentures. You may need a few adjustments before they are well-fitted.

If you have dentistry questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please give our office a call. We’re here to answer all your concerns.

According to experts in the dental industry, approximately 90% of people 20 years old or older have at least one cavity. Even if you’re lucky enough to have come this far without any cavities, an annual dental cleaning should be a part of your routine. Continue reading to learn more about the importance of yearly dental visits.

Your Dentist Will Conduct a Cancer Screening

One of the most important parts of your regular dental visit is the screening that your dentist conducts for signs of oral cancer. Like most other types of cancer, when it’s discovered in its earliest stages, cancer of the mouth, gums, and tongue can be successfully treated. Your dentist will also check your head, neck, and throat for any signs that something may be amiss. This is an important reason to visit your dentist.

Clean Teeth Are Healthy Teeth

Your regular dental cleaning helps to keep your mouth, teeth, and gums clean and healthy. This prevents the buildup of plaque and tartar and helps to curtail the development of cavities. Regular cleanings are also great for your gums. If you are showing early signs of gum disease, or gingivitis, it’s important to see your dentist on a regular basis to prevent the condition from worsening. And, you’ll love the way your teeth and gums feel when your hygienist finishes your cleaning. Who doesn’t love a fresh and clean mouth?

Regular Check-Ups Catch Problems Early

X-rays are often part of a regular dental appointment. Even without x-rays, seeing your dentist on a regular basis allows them to notice any problems as they are developing. When spotted early, gum disease and tooth decay can be treated before they become major problems. There are even some medical conditions that your dentist could be the first to notice. When regular dental visits are a part of your medical routine and care, you give yourself a better chance of staying healthy. Don’t underestimate the importance of dental care and good oral hygiene as part of your overall health and wellness.

Our team is here to take care of all your dental needs. We recommend that you undergo a dental cleaning at least once, if not twice a year. If it’s been a while since your last visit to the dentist, give us a call today and schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Straight teeth are important for a child’s health and self-esteem. A misaligned bite can cause speech difficulties, difficulty chewing, and an increased risk of gum disease, so it’s important to determine when your child is ready for orthodontic treatment. Let’s gain more insight into knowing when to consider Invisalign for your child.

1. Permanent Teeth

According to KidsHealth, it’s suggested that children should visit an orthodontist when their permanent teeth start coming in, around age seven. At this age, Invisalign treatment can be considered to begin the process of realigning your child’s teeth. Your orthodontist can adjust the aligners as your child’s mouth grows.

2. Jaw Growth

Your orthodontist will also consider your child’s jaw growth. Jaw growth usually stops around age 11 or 12. The orthodontic specialist may still recommend this treatment before growth stops, depending on the severity of your child’s orthodontic needs.

3. Teeth Grinding

A pattern of teeth grinding can indicate that Invisalign aligners may be necessary. Teeth grinding can cause dental issues, and this orthodontic treatment can correct the issue. Otherwise, teeth grinding can cause long-term damage to your child’s teeth.

4. Overjet

An overjet is when the upper front teeth stick out over the bottom teeth. Using Invisalign treatment can help correct the overjet by shifting the lower jaw forward. When left untreated, an overjet can cause speech difficulties, gum recession, and other dental problems.

5. Crowded Teeth

Crowded teeth can cause plaque buildup and gum disease. Luckily, Invisalign treatment can fix overcrowding. Invisalign aligners can gradually move teeth into their correct positions without the use of metal braces or wires.

6. Small Gaps

Invisalign aligners can close small gaps between teeth. This can improve the appearance of your child’s smile and help them feel more confident. It can also reduce the risk of gum disease because it helps to prevent plaque buildup between the teeth.

7. Orthodontic Evaluation

The best way to determine if Invisalign is right for your child is to have an orthodontic evaluation. An orthodontist will be able to assess your child’s teeth and jaw and create a treatment plan best for them.

There are many reasons you may need to take your child to the local orthodontist for treatment. Luckily, Invisalign can help your child achieve a straight, beautiful smile. If you’re considering Invisalign treatment for your child, consult with our local orthodontist office today!

As kids grow, their teeth may begin to misalign. Although this can be difficult for parents, it doesn’t have to be. Thanks to technology, there are more ways to straighten your child’s teeth and give them the confidence they need. If your kids are feeling self-conscious about their smile and would like to find a way to fix it without metal braces, look into Invisalign treatment.

How It Works

Treatment involves a series of custom-made, clear aligners that slowly move teeth into their desired position. Each set of aligners is worn for two weeks before being replaced by the next set to ensure gradual and effective movement. The process is quite straightforward and starts with a visit to an orthodontist to determine if it’s a suitable option for your child. The dentist or orthodontist will take impressions, photos, and x-rays of your child’s teeth. The series of aligners are made according to the final tooth position prescribed by your dentist.

How Kids and Teens Benefit

These aligners are practically invisible, providing your child with the confidence that comes with having a great smile. Plus, they’re much easier to clean and maintain than traditional braces since your child can easily remove them when eating or brushing their teeth. Additionally, research shows that 47% of teens using Invisalign experienced an improvement in their self-esteem during treatment compared to just 22% of teens with metal braces, according to DocPlayer.

Cost and Timeline Considerations

Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment option but can be costly depending on the severity of your child’s dental issues. The cost varies depending on the length of treatment and other factors. Generally, treatment times range from 12-18 months but could be as long as 24 months in some cases. As long as your child follows the treatment plan, results should be visible within a few months.

In summary, Invisalign can be a great option for kids who want to straighten their teeth as conveniently as possible. The benefits are clear! The aligners are practically invisible, easier to clean and maintain, and may even lead to increased self-esteem. If you’re considering this option for your child, be sure to get in touch with Lowell Dental Arts for a consultation. Our team can put your child on a treatment plan leading to a straight and beautiful smile.