Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars and the last adult teeth to erupt into the mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth, two on the bottom and two on top. Many people do not have enough room for these molars to emerge completely, causing them to become impacted in the gum. Impacted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, making them more susceptible to decay and disease. Other dental problems caused by impacted wisdom teeth include pain, damage to surrounding teeth, and bite alignment issues. For these reasons, your dentist may recommend having the impacted teeth removed to prevent future problems.
Surgery to extract an impacted wisdom tooth or set of wisdom teeth is usually an outpatient procedure done in your dentist or oral surgeon’s office. If the tooth or surrounding area are deemed to have an infection prior to the procedure, surgery will be delayed, and your dental professional will likely prescribe antibiotics to help heal the area.
On the day of surgery, local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area where the extracted tooth will be removed. Depending on the severity of your case, your dentist or oral surgeon may also utilize a general anesthetic.
Once the anesthesia has taken effect, an incision will be made to open up the gum and any bone blocking the tooth will be removed. Your dentist or surgeon will then separate the tissue connecting the bone to the tooth and extract the tooth. Some teeth are too large to remove in one piece, in which case your surgeon will cut the tooth into smaller pieces to make it easier to remove. Finally, the incision is closed with stitches and packed with gauze to help alleviate bleeding.
Long-term complications from impacted wisdom tooth surgery are rare. To ensure a successful recovery from this or any oral surgery, be sure to follow all aftercare instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon.
We treat patients from Meriden and the surrounding area
Proper dental care should begin as early as possible, ensuring a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Children’s dental needs differ significantly from those of adults, so it’s crucial to choose a family dental practice equipped to meet the specific requirements of your youngest family members.
When Should Your Child First Visit the Dentist?
Your child’s first dental checkup should occur before their first birthday or as soon as their first tooth erupts. Early visits set the foundation for good oral health habits and allow your dentist to monitor your child’s developing teeth and gums.
Pediatric Dental Services to Look For
When selecting a family dental practice, consider whether they offer:
- Child-Specific Dental Health Exams and Risk Assessments: Early detection of potential issues can prevent more serious problems later.
- Preventative Oral Care: Services like cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants protect your child’s teeth from decay.
- Trauma Care: Treatment for dental injuries such as fractured, displaced, or knocked-out teeth.
- Cavity and Defect Treatment: Managing cavities and correcting developmental dental issues.
- Gum Disease Care: Identifying and treating early signs of gum inflammation or disease.
- Orthodontic Evaluations: Assessing and addressing misaligned teeth or improper bites early in your child’s development.
Creating a Positive Experience for Children
A welcoming and child-friendly environment is key to making dental visits enjoyable. Look for practices that offer:
- Game rooms, videos, or other amenities to entertain children.
- Prizes or rewards to celebrate successful visits.
- Policies allowing parents to accompany children into the treatment room for added reassurance.
Building Lifelong Habits
Regular dental visits—every six months—are essential for maintaining your child’s oral health. Children aren’t born with a fear of the dentist; with the right family dental practice, they can develop positive associations with dental care.
Take the time to find a family dentist who understands the special attention children require. This investment will help ensure that your entire family looks forward to their dental visits and enjoys a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Take the first step towards optimal oral hygiene. Reserve your dental appointment at our Meriden dental office now and experience personalized care.
Many people use mouthwash to freshen their breath quickly, but it offers several additional benefits beyond that.
Reduces Bacteria
Antiseptic and anti-plaque mouthwashes are designed to kill germs that contribute to gum disease, plaque buildup, and bad breath. Swishing with these mouthwashes after brushing can significantly lower bacteria levels, reducing the risk of these problems. This is especially beneficial for older adults or those who have difficulty brushing and flossing effectively.
Promotes Healing
Mouthwashes with antiseptic properties can aid in the healing of mouth and gum irritations, minor wounds, and canker sores. These rinses help remove debris that can further irritate your mouth and reduce inflammation caused by dental or orthodontic appliances.
Adds Fluoride
Some mouthwashes contain fluoride, which strengthens teeth and helps prevent tooth decay. Studies have shown that using fluoride mouthwash, in addition to fluoride toothpaste, provides more protection against cavities than toothpaste alone. However, fluoride mouthwash is not recommended for children under six, as they may accidentally swallow it.
Relieves Pain
Antiseptic mouthwashes can help alleviate tooth pain, likely by reducing bacteria and inflammation in the mouth.
Helps with Certain Conditions
Dentists may prescribe specialized mouthwashes to address specific oral conditions, such as gum disease, dry mouth, or a high risk of tooth decay. These rinses may also be recommended after periodontal treatments or oral surgeries.
Supplements Dental Hygiene
While mouthwash can complement your oral hygiene routine, it’s important to remember that it should never replace regular brushing and flossing. It is a helpful addition to maintaining a healthy mouth.
Do not let another day go by without taking care of your dental needs. Request an appointment now at our Meriden dental office!
Cold Sores and Fever Blisters: What You Need to Know
Fun in the summer sun can sometimes lead to cold sores and fever blisters, which are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). These sores are contagious and spread through contact with saliva or skin. Most people are exposed to HSV-1 by the time they’re 10 years old, and after the initial infection, the virus stays dormant until triggered by stress, illness, or sun exposure.
Symptoms and Outbreaks
The first exposure to the virus can cause symptoms like:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Painful swelling
- Open mouth sores
Cold sores typically appear around the edges of the lips, often starting with a tingling or burning sensation, followed by redness and swelling. One or more blisters usually form within 24 to 48 hours.
How Long Do Cold Sores Last?
Initial outbreaks can last 7 to 14 days, with the blisters crusting over within a few days and healing in 10 days. While medical treatment is often not necessary after the first outbreak, keeping the affected area clean and using topical medications can reduce symptoms and help speed healing.
Prevention Tips
To avoid spreading the virus, avoid kissing others or having close contact with them when you have an active fever blister. To prevent cold sores caused by sun exposure, apply sunscreen to your lips.
For more information or treatment options, contact our dentist in Meriden.
Take the first step towards a confident smile. Contact our Meriden dental office to schedule your consultation!
Straight, white smiles are highly sought after, and selecting the right professional for your smile makeover is an important decision. The American Dental Association does not classify cosmetic dentistry as one of its eight specialties, meaning there are no legal restrictions preventing any dentist from calling themselves a “cosmetic dentist.” This is why it’s crucial to thoroughly research and choose the best cosmetic dentist for your treatment. Here are some key factors to consider when searching for a qualified cosmetic dentist:
1. Ask About Their Cosmetic Training
In addition to completing dental school, a skilled cosmetic dentist should have pursued postgraduate training in the specific procedures you’re interested in. This ensures they are well-versed in the latest techniques and best practices.
2. Look for Membership in Relevant Organizations
Find out if the dentist belongs to professional organizations focused on cosmetic dentistry. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) is a leading organization, and dentists who have completed its accreditation program are considered top professionals in the field.
3. Review Before and After Photos
Request to see “before and after” photos of patients who have had similar treatments. This will give you a clear sense of the quality and style of their work. Make sure the results meet your expectations before moving forward.
4. Check Patient Testimonials and Reviews
Look for testimonials and reviews from patients who have undergone cosmetic treatments similar to yours. Online reviews can offer valuable insight into the experiences of others and the dentist’s reputation.
5. Ask About Their Experience
Inquire about how long the dentist has been practicing and the types of cosmetic procedures they frequently perform. A dentist with extensive experience in specific treatments is more likely to deliver high-quality results.
6. Evaluate the Technology in the Office
Modern dental technology can make a significant difference in the quality and precision of cosmetic dental work. Ask about the tools and technology available at the office to ensure you’re receiving the best possible care.
7. Consider the Dentist and Staff’s Attitude
Make sure the dentist and their office staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and approachable. A positive, professional atmosphere can make a big difference in your overall experience.
8. Ensure You Feel Comfortable and Confident
Ultimately, it’s essential to feel comfortable and confident in your choice of a cosmetic dentist. A great relationship with your dentist can lead to years of enjoying a beautiful, bright smile.
Are dental issues holding you back? Take control of your oral health by booking an appointment with our experienced team at our Meriden dental office.
Have you been told that you may need a root canal treatment? Are you worried because of things you’ve heard in the media about how “awful” a root canal is? Don’t worry about what you’ve heard; endodontic therapy isn’t at all what you’d think. Let’s debunk some myths!
- Myth #1: Root canal treatment is very painful. This isn’t true! In fact, a root canal treatment is performed specifically to relieve a patient’s pain, not to cause more. After a root canal treatment, you might feel some tenderness, but the pain you felt when the damaged tissue and infection was still inside the tooth will be completely gone. Once the swelling from the procedure has gone down, you will be able to use your new tooth exactly the way you could use your natural tooth when it was completely healthy.
- Myth #2: Root canal therapy or other endodontic work can lead to disease elsewhere in the body. Another falsehood! Root canal treatments don’t spread disease to the rest of the body, rather, they remove infected tissue and bacteria from the body, preventing the affected tooth from becoming re-infected.
- Myth #3: Extraction is better than root canal treatment. Extraction is not preferred to root canal treatment! Whenever possible, it’s preferred to keep your natural tooth. Your natural tooth’s roots stimulate and preserve the bone of your jaw, as well as providing adequate support to the surrounding teeth. Dental implants or dental bridges can be problematic, both in function and in dietary restrictions. In fact, an extraction can lead to several prolonged appointments to perform replacement procedures, treatments that are far more involved than a root canal treatment.
Endodontic treatment is an extremely common dental procedure that can provide durable, long-lasting restorations that will function as your natural tooth did. If you believe you may need a root canal treatment, talk to your endodontist or dentist today to see how this successfully proven treatment can help you and your smile needs.
We treat patients from Meriden and the surrounding area
