Are Fluoride Treatments Helpful?

Your body takes in, and loses fluoride daily. You gain fluoride from eating certain foods and drinking water; however, bacteria from plaque can cause demineralization and cause you to lose fluoride. And if you lose fluoride more quickly than you gain it, you are at a greater risk of tooth decay. Thankfully, you can “gain back” fluoride by eating healthy foods and getting fluoride treatments at your dentist’s office.

When is fluoride intake most important? 

While fluoride is important for the health of every person’s teeth, some people have pre-existing conditions or risk factors that make fluoride intake extra important for their overall oral health. These people would benefit greatly from fluoride treatments.

Conditions that make fluoride intake critical include:

• Dry Mouth - If you suffer from dry mouth, you have less saliva present to help wash away harmful bacteria. 
• Gum or periodontal disease - This condition could expose more of your tooth roots, leaving you vulnerable for an increased risk of tooth decay. 
• Frequent cavities - If you’re a regular in your dentist’s office due to frequent cavities, your mouth is trying to tell you that increased fluoride would be beneficial. 
• Dental work - Appliances such as crowns or braces can increase your chances of tooth decay, and getting a fluoride treatment can help you fortify your enamel to fight against it. 

The benefits of fluoride treatments 

Fluoride intake helps prevent tooth decay by defending your teeth from acid attacks and bacteria. Even better news is that fluoride treatment can reverse existing tooth decay as well. Children with developing teeth definitely benefit from the corrective benefits of fluoride, but adults also reap rewards from getting fluoride treatments. Fluoride disrupts acid production in the mouth, protecting you from dental problems in the future and stopping issues that may be forming.

Your dentist can apply fluoride treatments in a variety of ways, including via a gel, foam, or varnish, or you can use an at-home kit. These treatments have a higher percentage of fluoride than what you would get from a conventional toothpaste or mouth wash.

You can also take fluoride supplements in the form of liquids or tablets, but it must be prescribed by your dentist.

The risks associated with fluoride treatments 

Like all medical treatments, there are minor risks involved. Fluoride in large doses can be toxic, and excess fluoride can cause defects in the tooth enamel. Parents should always monitor intake of products with fluoride by children under six years of age.

Contact us today at our Roseville dental office to schedule a fluoride treatment for your smile. We will work with you to ensure you leave our office smiling!

Risk Factors of Gum Disease

Gum, or periodontal, disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth, and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. It’s a common issue, with many adults in the U.S. suffering from this disease in varying degrees of severity, ranging from gum inflammation to major tooth loss and bone damage.

What causes gum disease? 

There’s no mystery surrounding what causes gum disease- you can most often blame the plaque and tarter on your teeth. When plaque and tarter linger, and aren’t properly cleaned and removed from your mouth, they can cause inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), resulting in gums that are oversensitive, swollen, and bloody.

Thankfully, gingivitis is reversible and can be corrected by regular dental cleanings and proper oral care; however, if it’s left untreated, it can turn into periodontal disease, which is much more serious and can ultimately cause destruction to healthy teeth and tissue.

What increases your odds of developing gum disease? 

There are several risk factors that can increase your chances of developing gum or periodontal disease. If you’re aware of what the risks include, you will be better equipped to avoid them, with the exception of genetic risks (yes, unfortunately some people are just born with an increased risk of gum disease).

The risks for gum disease include:

• Smoking or using tobacco products- Do you use cigarettes or snuff? Here’s another reason to quit now: it dramatically increases your risk of gum disease. 
• Hormonal changes- Women who are pregnant or experiencing hormonal shifts for other reasons will have gums that are more sensitive, thereby increasing their risk of gum disease. 
• Illnesses and medications- If you suffer from an illness such as AIDS or diabetes, or take certain medications, you may experience dry mouth or abnormal growth of gum tissue, all of which increase your risk of gum disease. 

Many people don’t experience symptoms of gum disease until they enters their 30s or 40s, and men are at an increased risk, but everyone is susceptible and should work to follow a good oral health routine and avoid factors that could put them at risk.

Symptoms of gum disease 

While many people with gum disease experience no symptoms, there are a few telltale signs that should alert you that you need to see a dentist. These symptoms include:

• Bad breath that won’t go away 
• Bleeding gums
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth that hurt when you chew 
• Receding gums 

Don’t let gum disease ruin your smile. Make an appointment today with your Roseville dentist, Dr. Ronald Rasi to get you on the path to rid gum disease and maintain improved oral health.

What Is Bruxism?

Do you find that your jaw is regularly tense or sore, or that your teeth are prematurely wearing? If so, you may suffer from Bruxism, a condition in which you clench or grind your teeth unconsciously during the day or sleep bruxism, a version of the condition that affects you while you sleep.

Most people who suffer from mild cases of bruxism may bypass treatment; however, for more serious cases, bruxism can cause headaches, neck tenderness, and damaged teeth, making treatment imperative to the sufferer’s overall health and wellbeing.

What Are The Symptoms? 

Many people who have bruxism do not realize it until they start having complications. It’s important to look out for the symptoms of bruxism, which include:

• Tooth grinding or clenching
• Damaged teeth
• Headaches 
• Worn tooth enamel 
• Tense jaw muscles 
• Damage to the soft tissues inside your mouth

You should definitely visit a doctor if you notice your teeth appear worn down or damaged, you are experiencing pain, or your jaw feels locked in place.

What Causes Bruxism? 

While the exact cause of bruxism is unknown, dentists believe that stress, sleep disorders, certain personality types, and complications from diseases such as Parkinson’s may contribute to the onset of bruxism. Age and stimulants are also risk factors.

How Can My Dentist Help? 

During routine dental examinations, your dentist will inspect your mouth for signs of bruxism. However, if you suspect you are suffering from the condition, be sure to schedule an appointment immediately. In order to decide on a treatment plan, your dentist will inspect you for facial tenderness, dental abnormalities, and damage to your teeth.

If a sleep disorder or psychological issues are determined to be a factor you may be referred to a sleep specialist; otherwise, you may be prescribed a mouth guard or splint. In severe cases, your dentist may have to reshape the surface of your teeth if too much damage has been done. You may also be prescribed muscle relaxants to help you relax and assistance with stress management techniques. Don’t suffer from bruxism alone. Contact our Roseville dental office today to make an appointment!

Overdentures

Dentures aren’t any good if they don’t stay in place. In fact, many people who need dentures choose not to wear them rather than suffer the embarrassment and frustration that comes when they slip during meals or conversation. Unfortunately, going without your dentures can cause your confidence to plummet and even have an effect on your nutritional health, since fewer teeth mean more dietary restrictions. Fortunately, overdentures can solve this problem, so you’ll never again have to choose between going without your dentures and enduring a possible slip.

What are Overdentures?

Overdentures are like traditional dentures, but instead of applying them directly to your gums with adhesive, you secure them to dental implants or a remaining natural tooth. They are removable and do require daily cleaning, but they offer far more stability (and far less messy) than traditional dentures and their adhesives. They are also more comfortable because they don’t rub against your gums as ill-fitting traditional ones do.

The dental implant supported denture will have you smiling with confidence again. You will be able to enjoy your favorite foods without worry and enjoy conversations with a smile on your face.
Overdentures can make the simple things easier and much more fun. Depending on the health of your jaw bone, and the overall health of any remaining teeth, your dentist will attach the overdenture to as few as two implants.

If your overdenture is supported by dental implants, you have increased benefits. The implants themselves, which will fuse to your jaw bone, help to regenerate bone and maintain a strong support system for your dentures.

Contact our office to schedule an appointment at our Roseville dental office if you’re thinking about overdentures as a solution to tooth loss or would like to know more about your options. Dr. Rassi and his staff work together to fulfill your dental needs in a relaxing environment.

Can Veneers Help My Smile?

If your teeth are less than perfect, you should know that there are a number of ways to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. It’s important to love your smile, after all, it’s the first thing people notice about you. One method of achieving a perfect smile is with dental veneers. Many celebrities opt for dental veneers because they look and feel natural. Not sure if veneers are right for you? Read on to find out more:

What are Veneers?

Veneers fit over the surface of the teeth. They’re extremely thin and custom-crafted to suit your individual needs. The protective shell provided by the veneer looks and feels just like your real teeth — only better! You might also hear them referred to as “porcelain veneers” or “porcelain laminates” because of the material from which they’re made. Although veneers can be made from composite resin, porcelain is preferred by many because it is stain-resistant and looks more natural. However, some patients may do better with resin veneers because they’re thinner — so consult with your dentist to find out which material is best for you.

The Advantages of Veneers

There are a number of advantages associated with dental veneers. Here are some of the reasons you might want to consider veneers:

• They look and feel like natural teeth
• Porcelain veneers resist stains
• Gum tissue is tolerant of porcelain veneers
• Veneers can hide difficult stains

They can cover misshapen, uneven and slightly crooked teeth for an aesthetic smile
As you can see, there are lots of good reasons to choose veneers. You won’t believe the striking difference high-quality veneers can make in your appearance. By improving your smile, you can give yourself a whole new look and even appear younger and more vibrant.

How Veneers Are Placed

The first step when it comes to getting veneers is the consultation. Dr. Rasi will talk to you about your smile goals and help you decide if veneers are best for you. During the consultation, imaging may be done and teeth will be examined to ensure you’re a good candidate for this procedure. From there, teeth are prepped and an additional appointment is made to deliver the veneers. The veneers are bonded onto the natural teeth with a light-activated cement. Your veneers will be examined a few weeks after they’re placed to ensure they fit perfectly.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Dr. Ronald Rasi is a Roseville dentist with ample experience placing veneers. The office also handles family and cosmetic dentistry as well. Our friendly, experienced staff will help you feel at ease from the moment you walk through the door. We use modern technology to provide you with the personalized dental services you deserve. If you’ve ever considered veneers, now is the perfect time to take this step towards greater confidence and a better smile. Don’t delay improving your smile any longer — call our office at 916-860-2712 to schedule your consultation!

Preventing Cavities

Cavities are a common oral health problem that impacts people of all ages. A cavity is the remnant of tooth decay, which is caused by plaque buildup. If not removed in time, plaque can degrade the tooth enamel and cause decay within the teeth. The decay eats away at the tooth, leaving an empty space in its wake.

Cavities can occur between teeth, on the surfaces of teeth, and on the root areas of teeth. Early detection and treatment is the best course of action when dealing with tooth decay and cavities. When left untreated, cavities can worsen — leading to abscess, infection, and even complete tooth loss. Luckily, there are some ways to prevent cavities from occurring:

Follow a Thorough At-Home Dental Care Routine

Taking good care of your teeth at home is important when it comes to cavity prevention. Brush and floss two to three times daily, making sure to attend to all tooth surfaces. There is a multitude of tartar-control products on the market today from which you can choose, from toothpaste to mouthwash. Do some comparison shopping when choosing a toothbrush — look for a high-quality brush designed to offer superior cleaning power. If you are having trouble making a selection, ask your dentist for a recommendation.

Make Smart Nutritional Choices

What you eat can play a role in your oral health. Sugary soft drinks and sweets can contribute to the formation of plaque bacteria and accelerate the development of tooth decay — eventually leading to cavities. Steer clear of sugar-laden foods and beverages, opting instead for vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Crunchy produce like apples, carrots, and celery help contribute to good oral health.

Stay Properly Hydrated  

Drinking plenty of water is good for every part of you, including your teeth. Staying adequately hydrated can help your body’s natural processes wash away harmful bacteria in the mouth. Rather than reaching for juice, soft drinks, tea, or coffee, choose water instead and your teeth will thank you. Another way to keep your mouth hydrated and encourage saliva production is by chewing sugarless gum.

Get Regular Professional Cleanings

The best way to prevent cavities is with a professional dental checkup and cleaning every six months — more often if you suffer from gum disease. While at your appointment, ask your dentist about fluoride treatments and dental sealants, which can help prevent cavities from forming. If your dentist does spot any abnormalities in your teeth, early detection and treatment can ensure the problem is resolved before it becomes unmanageable.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

The Roseville office of Dr. Ronald Rasi provides family and cosmetic dentistry services to patients of all ages. Your smile is the first thing people notice about you, and we want you to have the healthiest, most beautiful smile possible. With proper dental care, you’ll look and feel confident enough to flash your pearly whites at everyone you meet! Whether you just need a checkup or have a dental problem, Dr. Rasi and his friendly, experienced staff are here to serve you. Call our office at 916-860-2712 today to schedule your appointment and enjoy the personalized oral health care you deserve!