Can Small Cavities Heal by Themselves?

If you have a cavity and are reluctant to call your dentist, you may be hoping the cavity will just heal itself. A cavity is tooth decay that causes a hole in the tooth. If cavities are not treated more serious issues can develop. It is important to take care of your oral health and practice good habits at home. Attending your regular cleanings and exams in our office can identify if you have any cavities, and make sure they are addressed promptly.

How Will My Small Cavity Be Treated?

Treatments for a Cavity

  • Fillings
  • Inlays or Onlays
  • Crowns
  • Root Canals
  • Extractions

What Can I Do To Reverse Decay and Prevent Cavities?

  • Brush and floss at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste.
  • Increase your fluoride intake to help stop the cavity from further decay. Our office provides fluoride treatments, and fluoride can be found in toothpaste or mouthwashes.
  • Sealants can be applied to molars to prevent cavities from forming. This is a clear plastic protective coat that can help halt or reverse current decay on a tooth if the cavity is small enough and in the early stages.
  • Limit eating and drinking foods that have a high sugar content. These types of foods and drinks contribute to tooth decay. If you do consume these foods, make sure to brush right afterwards.
  • Visit our office twice a year for your regular cleaning and exam.

Interested in Scheduling an Appointment?

If you have a cavity that needs to be filled, or is causing your issues please do not hesitate to call our office. Leaving a cavity untreated can cause more serious issues if the cavity is not addressed promptly. Our flexible hours and schedule allow you to be seen right away. Your health is our priority and we welcome new patients to our office.

To schedule your dental exam or cleaning contact us, and our staff will be happy to assist you!

Why Should I Get a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges help to bridge the gap between one or more missing teeth. Bridges have one or more crowns or implants on either side of the gap and false teeth in-between them. If you have a gap caused by a missing tooth and that gap is embarrassing, a bridge may be right for you. Bridges are typically made from porcelain material, and this looks natural and blends in with your other teeth.

There are many different types of bridges available. Depending on how many teeth are missing, and if you have natural teeth on both sides will help decide what type of bridge is recommended.

Types of Dental Bridges

Traditional Bridge

A traditional bridge is a type of bridge with two anchoring crowns on either side of the replacement tooth. This is the most popular type of bridge, and is used when the gap has natural teeth on both sides.

Cantilever Bridge

A cantilever bridge is used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth. This type of bridge is not used as much anymore, and it not as common as the other options. Cantilever bridges tend to put too much pressure on other teeth and this can cause damage.

Maryland Bonded Bridge

This type of bridge has metal or porcelain wings, and these are bonded to the existing teeth. Maryland bridges are made out of porcelain or porcelain fused to metal.

Implant Supported Bridge

This type of bridge is similar to the traditional dental bridge, but is supported by a dental implant. The implant is inserted into the jaw and the bridge is attached above the gum line. This type of bridge has an advantage over the other types and helps to prevent bone loss. Implant supported bridges are the most stable compared to other bridge options. Surgery is required to insert the implant and does take longer.

What Are the Advantages With Dental Bridges?

  • A dental bridge offers an effective solution for tooth replacement. Bridges are aesthetically pleasing and help restore mouth function.
  • Helps to maintain structure in the mouth and hold teeth in place to reduce shifting and bite issues.
  • Helps to reduce bone loss and maintains facial structure.
  • Is comfortable in the mouth and feels like a natural tooth.
  • Does not require removal for cleaning. Bridges should be cleaned just like natural teeth with brushing and flossing daily.

Looking To Find Out More?

If you are interested in finding out if a bridge is right for you, scheduling a consultation in our office is the first step. Dental bridges are affordable and a reliable solution for missing teeth. Let us help you get that perfect smile!

To schedule your consultation please contact our office, and our staff will be happy to assist you.

How to Choose the Right Dentist for Dental Implants?

Dental Implant

When you decide to invest in dental implants to restore your smile, you want to make sure you find the perfect dentist. Quality dentistry you can count on is important to ensure your implant procedure is successful.

There are many things to look out for when choosing a dentist in your area. Dentists should have proper training and years of experience in implant dentistry. It is important that the dentist you choose is heavily involved in continuing education. This ensures they are staying on top of the latest trends and techniques available in the dental industry. If you need a source or list of dentists in your area, you can visit the American Academy of Implant Dentistry website to locate an implant expert.

What Are Tips To Consider When Choosing My Dentist?

  • Complete research on your own and find out what services your dentist offers, and how many years they have been treating patients.
  • Check on their continuing education experience to ensure your dentist is providing the highest level of care and technology to all patients.
  • Research or ask questions about the dentist’s experience and background on implant dentistry, and how many patients they have treated successfully.
  • Ask friends or neighbors that have had implant surgery, and have them provide feedback on the procedure and recovery process.
  • Look for a full-service practice that can handle the entire process from start to finish. You don’t want to have to visit multiple offices when you are going through an extensive process like dental implant surgery.
  • Talk to your dentist about sedation options and what may work best for you. It is important to feel comfortable about the dental implant process, and your dentist should want to help choose the best option for sedation that works for you.

At Idlewild Family Dentistry, we are a full-service practice, and our passion is restoring smiles for our patients. If you are unhappy with your smile, or have broken or cracked teeth, our team can help. We have years of experience in implant dentistry, and we love to help patients restore their confidence with a brand-new smile.

Don’t live with a smile that causes you to be embarrassed around others. Implants offer a permanent solution, and can last a lifetime if cared for properly. Dental implants are durable, and can function just like our natural teeth.

Looking for a Dental Implant Specialist in Your Area?

If you are interested in finding out more about how dental implants can benefit you, contact Idlewild Family Dentistry today. Our staff would love to welcome you to our practice, and help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Dental implants are a big decision and can be life changing. Let our doctors get you started with our dental implant consultation process today.

To schedule your appointment, contact Merrillville Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.