TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a condition that affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing pain, discomfort, and limited jaw movement. It can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, making it difficult to eat, speak, and even sleep. 

If you’re struggling with these symptoms, you’re probably wondering, can my dentist help with TMJ? Yes, your dentist can help with TMJ. Dentists are extensively trained in the anatomy and function of the jaw joint and the surrounding structures and can provide several different treatment options.

Since TMJ is commonly associated with dentistry, it is important to understand the role that dentists can play in its diagnosis and treatment.

What Your Dentist Can Do to Help Your TMJ

Dentists can accurately diagnose TMJ through a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a physical examination, reviewing your medical history, and taking X-rays or other imaging tests. Identifying the underlying causes and specific factors contributing to TMJ is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan.

One common cause of TMJ is teeth misalignment or malocclusion. Dentists can assess your bite and identify any dental issues that may be contributing to your TMJ symptoms. They can provide treatment options such as orthodontic correction or the use of dental appliances like splints or mouthguards to help realign the jaw and alleviate pressure on the joint.

Another potential cause of TMJ is teeth grinding or bruxism, which often occurs during sleep. Dentists can detect signs of teeth grinding by examining your teeth for wear, fractures, or other damage. They can fabricate a custom-made nightguard that acts as a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing further damage and reducing muscle tension associated with TMJ.

In some cases, TMJ may be caused by muscle tension and stress. Dentists can recommend stress management techniques or refer you to other healthcare professionals who specialize in treating chronic pain and stress-related disorders. They may also provide muscle relaxants or pain medications to help manage acute symptoms.

Furthermore, dentists can offer guidance on self-care techniques that can provide relief for TMJ symptoms. This may include jaw exercises, applying heat or cold packs to the affected area, practicing relaxation techniques, and avoiding hard or chewy foods that can aggravate the condition.

It is important to note that in complex cases of TMJ, dentists may work in collaboration with other healthcare providers such as oral and maxillofacial surgeons, physical therapists, or pain management specialists to ensure comprehensive care.

In conclusion, dentists can certainly play a significant role in helping with TMJ. They possess the expertise to diagnose the condition, identify underlying causes, and provide appropriate treatment options. Seeking early intervention from a dentist can lead to effective management of TMJ symptoms and improve your overall oral health and well-being.

How to Prevent TMJ

Preventing TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, involves adopting healthy habits and minimizing stress on the jaw joint. Here are some tips to help prevent TMJ:

1. Practice good posture: Maintain proper posture throughout the day, especially when sitting or using electronic devices, to avoid straining the jaw.
2. Avoid excessive jaw movements: Limit activities that strain the jaw joint, such as excessive gum chewing or biting hard objects like pencils or fingernails.
3. Manage stress: Find stress-relief techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in activities you enjoy to reduce jaw clenching and tension.
4. Avoid teeth grinding: If you grind your teeth during sleep, consider using a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your teeth and alleviate jaw pressure.
5. Maintain a balanced diet: Eat a well-balanced diet that includes soft, non-chewy foods to reduce stress on the jaw joint and minimize the risk of TMJ.
6. Practice jaw relaxation exercises: Regularly perform gentle jaw stretches and relaxation exercises to relieve tension and promote jaw joint flexibility.

By adopting these preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of developing TMJ and promote overall jaw health. If you have concerns about TMJ or experience persistent jaw pain or discomfort, consult with a healthcare professional for guidance and personalized recommendations.

Related Questions

Is TMJ curable? TMJ is a complex condition, and its curability depends on various factors. In many cases, TMJ symptoms can be alleviated through a combination of treatments such as lifestyle changes, dental interventions, physical therapy, and stress management techniques. However, a complete cure for TMJ may not always be possible, especially in severe or chronic cases. 

Does TMJ require surgery? In most cases, TMJ does not require surgery. The majority of individuals with TMJ find relief through non-surgical treatments such as lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, dental interventions, and pain management techniques. However, in rare cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief or when there are structural abnormalities or severe joint damage, surgical intervention may be considered.

The post Can My Dentist Help With TMJ? first appeared on The Dental Studio of South Tulsa.

The post Can My Dentist Help With TMJ? appeared first on The Dental Studio of South Tulsa.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve struggled with whitening my teeth for years and wanted to know if there was another way to achieve the same look. After going to the dentist recently, I asked about veneers and what all is involved with getting them. So, I did some research in case you were wondering the same thing!

Do porcelain veneers need to be replaced? Yes! It is important to treat veneers just like you would your teeth. Veneers experience the same wear and tear over the years as your teeth do and protecting and caring for them should be a priority. Thanks to advances in dental veneers, the average lifespan of a veneer is about 10 years but can be lengthened to 15 or 20 years with proper treatment.

In this post, we will cover everything you need to know about this cosmetic dentistry procedure.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

If you’re like me, you may not know what a dental veneer is. Basically, a porcelain veneer is a piece of porcelain that is bonded onto the surface of your tooth’s original enamel. It is contoured to the shape of your tooth so that it is covered fully. A full set of veneers usually only includes about 8 teeth – typically your top, front teeth. However, many people also get veneers for their bottom teeth, or they only have one or two to cover chipped, stained, or broken teeth.

Why Do Porcelain Veneers Need to be Replaced?

Because veneers behave similarly to our normal teeth, they experience cracks and breaks too. As they begin to wear out, you might start to notice some discomfort or some visual changes – this is completely normal. Veneers are very durable when installed correctly, but they are not as strong and lasting as our teeth. Therefore, needing to replace veneers every 10-15 years is a normal process.

How to Know It’s Time to Replace Your Porcelain Veneers:

Now that you know what a veneer is and why they need to be replaced, here are a few examples of how you should know that it’s time to replace them.

• Veneers are chipped or cracked. Porcelain veneers are durable, however, they wear down over time and can experience cracks and chips just like our teeth. If you start to notice this – go get them checked out.
• The wrong size veneers were installed. If your dentist didn’t measure your mouth correctly when installing your veneers, they can be uncomfortable and painful. Experiencing any discomfort that seems abnormal is a sign to go get them looked at.
• Veneers were installed improperly. Sometimes dental veneers can be installed improperly, even if they are the correct shape and size for your teeth. This can cause them to fall off – which is a hint that you should probably go get them fixed.
• Poor dental hygiene. Just like our normal teeth, we must maintain proper hygiene. This means that you should brush and floss and take care of your mouth just like you would your teeth – if not even more. Unfortunately, porcelain veneers can not be whitened. Without proper hygiene, they too will become dull and discolored.
• Tooth decay under the veneer. Even if your veneer is looking and feeling good, if the tooth underneath it is not – the veneer will need to be replaced. You will likely need to undergo some type of dental procedure to fix the decaying tooth before replacing the veneer.

Prolonging the Life of Your Porcelain Veneers

If you take care of your teeth and maintain proper dental hygiene, you will likely not have any problems. But just in case, here are a few reminders to keep your veneers looking like new for a lot longer.

• Brush and floss regularly. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after every meal. Floss at least twice a day, preferably after every meal.
• Avoid tobacco products. Tobacco products can cause staining, making your teeth and veneers appear yellow.
• Wear a mouthguard during contact sports. If you are involved in a sport or activity that could lead to contact near the head/face, you should wear a protective mouthguard or shield to prevent any chips or breaks.
• Visit your dentist twice a year for checkups. Maintaining regular visits to your dentist for dental exams and cleanings will help you catch anything that could turn into a problem later on and gives your dentist the chance to properly clean your teeth.
• Avoid food and drink that might stain your veneers/teeth. Coffee, soda, berries, tomatoes, and wine can stain your teeth over time. Eating/drinking in moderation is key to keeping your smile bright and white!

Reasons You May Need Porcelain Veneers

There are many different reasons for either wanting or needing a veneer, whether it’s a necessary or personal choice. Some of these reasons individuals opt for porcelain veneers include:

• Chipped or broken teeth
• Straighter smile without braces or other procedures
• Whitened smile
• Cosmetic preference

Deciding to get a set of veneers is different than deciding to get braces or any other dental alteration. The veneer process is less invasive and slightly more permanent. If you are looking to alter the appearance of your smile without having to wear braces, and veneers can cover any irregularities – they would be a great option.

There are also such things as temporary veneers. If you’ve been in an accident of some sort and chipped or broken a tooth, a veneer can be used to cover or hold its place until the tooth is fixed or until a permanent solution appears.

Related Questions

How much do porcelain veneers cost? Veneers, though they are the less invasive option for dental cosmetics, can still be pricey. Porcelain veneers are the more expensive option of veneer types and typically range from about $925-$2500 per tooth.

What is the procedure like? Porcelain veneers are a non-invasive procedure, getting or replacing veneers can take time but shouldn’t be painful or require any kind of anesthetic or drug. Your dentist will take the time to properly measure your mouth – oftentimes taking a mold of your teeth. This part could cause some mild discomfort, but no pain. After this is done, your dentist will send the measurements to a lab so that the veneers can be custom created.

If you’re covering up a chipped or broken tooth, a temporary veneer can be used until the permanent one is ready. Once the permanent veneers are ready, your dentist will remove the enamel off of your natural teeth – as the veneer will now be your “enamel”. Then, after your tooth is cleaned and air dried the adhesive will be put on, followed by the cement, and finally, the veneer will be bonded.

During the bonding process, the veneer will be light-cured to ensure that the veneer has fully attached to the tooth. After all of this is complete, your dentist will remove any excess material and you should be good to go!

How do I know if veneers are the right choice for me? Only you can ultimately decide to get veneers, but talking with your dentist is important. You’ll want to make sure that you fully understand the process, if you can afford it, and if any other options might be better suited for you. Call our Tulsa dentist team for more information on porcelain veneers or other cosmetic procedures!

The post Do Porcelain Veneers Need To Be Replaced? first appeared on The Dental Studio of South Tulsa.

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Fillings are perhaps one of the most common dental procedures for patients young and old. Used to treat a variety of issues, fillings are a simple procedure that takes place in the dentist’s office. However, because of this, many people are unsure how to plan their day surrounding an appointment for a filling. Why is the dentist recommending a filing in the first place? Does this procedure require several hours or is it a fast appointment? 

How long does it take to get a filling? The duration of your appointment to get a filling will depend greatly on the location of your filling and the complexity of the issue being treated. Each dental practice will vary slightly in their procedure as well. However, most fillings take between ten minutes to one hour to complete from start to finish.

Even individuals with the healthiest of teeth may require a filling at some point in their lives. The good news is that this procedure is quick and painless! In this post, we will take a closer look at how fillings are used to treat a variety of issues with the teeth. We will also share some insight on what to expect when you arrive at your dentist’s office for your filling appointment.

What is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is a standard dental procedure used most commonly to treat small cavities in the teeth. However, dentists also use fillings to repair small cracks, chips, or fractures in the teeth. The dental filling procedure is quick and non-invasive. If a cavity has caused tooth damage, the dentist will first remove the affected area of the tooth. However, if a crack or fracture is the culprit, this process will not be necessary.  

Once the affected tooth is prepared for the filling, the dentist will repair the damage using a tooth-colored material. The most common material used for fillings today is composite resin. However, other filling materials are available including silver amalgam, glass ionomer, gold, and ceramic, to name a few. 

After bonding the filling to your natural tooth, the dentist will polish the restoration material, removing any bumps or ledges. The result is a strong, healthy tooth that is restored in both function and durability. 

Reasons You May Need a Filling

Dental fillings are an effective and affordable treatment for a variety of oral health concerns. For this reason, they are one of the most common dental treatments for patients of all ages.

Using a Filling to Treat a Cavity

There is no greater feeling than leaving a dentist appointment with a report of “no cavities”! However, at some point or another, you will likely end this streak of success. Whether due to genetic causes or poor oral hygiene, a cavity can wreak havoc on your tooth.

Fortunately, when a cavity is caught in a timely manner, it is quite simple to treat! This is just one of the many reasons you should make bi-annual dental exams and cleanings a priority.

Perhaps the most common use of dental fillings is to treat a cavity. Once the decay that caused the cavity has been removed, a South Tulsa dentist will repair the tooth using filling material. This not only prevents a reoccurring cavity but also restores strength and function to the affected tooth.

Using a Filling to Repair Small Holes in Tooth

Did you know that cavities aren’t the only thing that can cause small holes in the tooth? Regardless of the cause of the holes in your tooth, a filling can restore strength and function, eliminating the potential for decay or disease. 

Using a Filling to Treat a Fractured Tooth

Finally, dental fillings are also used to treat fractured, chipped, or cracked teeth. In situations where the damage is minor, a filling may be sufficient to restore the tooth to optimal condition. However, for severe cracks, chips, or fractures, your dentist will likely recommend an alternative treatment such as a crown, bridge, or veneer.

Process of Getting a Dental Filling

So, what exactly happens when you arrive at the dentist for a filling? How long do fillings take? After conducting a thorough assessment of the affected tooth, your dentist will likely request dental x-rays. This will provide them with a more thorough picture of the health and condition of the tooth both above and below the gumline. 

While fillings are virtually painless, the dental team will numb the teeth, tissue, and gums surrounding the area to be treated. This will ensure that you are comfortable throughout the filling process. If there is decay present in the tooth, the dentist will first carefully drill out the affected area. 

Once the tooth is prepared, the dentist will carefully replace the missing portion of the tooth with the filling material. Finally, they will polish the newly restored tooth and allow you to move forward with your day! This process should take between 10 minutes to one hour, depending on the severity and location of the filling.

After an hour or two, you will begin to once again feel the area that the dentist numbed for your filling. Some individuals experience mild discomfort for the remainder of the day. However, a dental filling should not cause pain or serious discomfort as it is a non-invasive procedure.

Types of Dental Fillings

As a result of modern dental advancements, there are now numerous types of dental fillings available. The type of filling you choose will depend on the location of the tooth to be filled and your personal preferences, as well as your budget. Your dentist may only offer one type of filling or they may provide you with several options from which to choose. 

Composite Fillings

Composite resin fillings are, by far, the most popular type of dental filling. This type of filling is made using a variety of resins that are cured using a light. This light causes the material’s chemical composition to change and harden, creating a durable filling. 

The greatest benefit of composite fillings is that they can be matched perfectly to the shade of the natural tooth. With a composite filling, you can repair even the most visible tooth without signs of repair.

Silver Amalgam Fillings

One of the oldest types of dental fillings is silver amalgam fillings. Used by dentists for nearly two centuries, silver amalgam dental filling material is made using several metals such as mercury, copper, tin, and silver. 

This material is combined with a binding agent to form to the open space in the tooth. As you can imagine, silver amalgam fillings have a distinct silver color. For this reason, silver amalgam fillings are decreasing in popularity, only used for teeth that are temporary or teeth towards the back of the mouth.

Other Types of Fillings

There are, of course, several other types of dental fillings that are not quite as popular. Some of the other filling materials that are used on a semi-regular basis include glass ionomer fillings, gold fillings, and ceramic fillings. 

Each type of dental filling has its own set of advantages as well as disadvantages. Your dentist can provide you with more information on a type of dental filling that is best for your unique situation.

Achieve a Healthy Smile Through Dental Fillings!

While they have been used in dentistry for centuries, dental fillings remain one of the most popular forms of dental treatment. From cavities to small fractures or cracks in the tooth, a filling can quickly and easily restore your tooth to its original function and stability. Through dental fillings, dentists are able to help their patients achieve a smile that is both beautiful and healthy! 

Do you think you could benefit from a dental filling? Contact our team of Tulsa dental filling experts today! 

The post How Long Does It Take To Get A Filling? first appeared on The Dental Studio of South Tulsa.

The post How Long Does It Take To Get A Filling? appeared first on The Dental Studio of South Tulsa.

So, how long do fillings last? The longevity of your filling is affected by several factors. A few of the things that can have an impact on how long your filling will last include:

• Type of filling material that is used.

• Size of the cavity that is being filled.

• Oral hygiene routines after receiving the filling.

It is safe to assume that your filling will last anywhere from five to thirty years.

If you are like us, you are hoping to have a filling that lasts for thirty years, or even longer! In this article, we hope to inform you of the various types of fillings and other facts related to finding a filling that works for you.

What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are the most effective way to treat a cavity in one or more teeth. A cavity is defined as “an area of decay in a tooth”. Most individuals in the United States have had or will have at least one cavity. Although cavities are much more prevalent in children, an individual of any age can develop this condition. 

To treat a dental cavity, a dentist will first use a drill to remove the decaying area of the tooth. Doing so ensures that the decay will not spread further, impacting additional teeth or even the gums. After the decayed area has been removed, the hole will be filled using a dental filling.

Your dentist will fill your cavity using one of several filling materials. The most common filling materials include the following:

• composite resins

• gold

• silver amalgam

• ceramic or porcelain

Once your dentist completes the dental filling procedure, your tooth will return to its strong, healthy state.

How Long Do Fillings Last?

The longevity of a dental filling depends on several factors. Things such as the size and severity of your cavity, the filling material used, and your oral hygiene practices all impact the lifespan of your filling.

Gold Dental Fillings

There are several options for filling materials. Gold fillings last the longest. In most cases, a gold filling lasts anywhere between 15 to 30 years. However, many patients shy away from gold fillings as they are incredibly visible, especially in teeth towards the front of the mouth.

Silver Amalgam Fillings

Dental fillings made of silver amalgam are known to last between 10 to 15 years. This makes them the second most durable option. Silver amalgam fillings are more modern and much less expensive than the gold alternative. However, some patients are wary of this type of filling as it contains mercury, copper, and tin. 

Composite Resin Fillings

Composite resin fillings are quickly becoming the most popular option. This type of filling material is comprised of glass or quartz that provides a finished filling that blends into your natural tooth. There is a downside to composite resin fillings. Unfortunately, this type of filling will only last between 5 to 7 years. However, if your cavity is small, this type of filling may still be an option.

Ceramic Dental Fillings

Ceramic fillings are often the best option. Their natural appearance along with their longevity provides the optimal solution. A ceramic filling is made of a material such as porcelain and can last up to 15 years. 

Your dentist will provide valuable advice as to which type of filling material will provide you with the most long-lasting results.

Proper Care Practices for Fillings

Taking proper care of your dental fillings will provide you with optimal results. Many types of dental fillings can last longer than their average lifespan with consistent dental hygiene.

Through Daily Brushing

Brushing thoroughly twice each day is important for everyone, even without dental fillings. However, the addition of dental fillings makes this task even more necessary. Daily brushing and flossing eliminate the potential for additional cavities that could impact existing fillings.

Avoid Hard Foods

One of the main culprits in decreased longevity of dental fillings is hard foods. Chewing on hard foods or ice cubes can cause your filling to crack. Additionally, chewy foods should be avoided, especially in the area of the filling.

Bi-Annual Dental Checkups

When you have dental fillings, it’s important to make your bi-annual dental checkups a priority. Professional cleanings can increase the lifespan of your dental filling. Your dentist will also be able to assess the condition of your dental fillings, allowing you to prevent a dental emergency in many cases.

Choose Water of Acidic Beverages

Another thing that can have a negative effect on your dental fillings is drinking acidic beverages in excess. Water is always the best beverage choice. However, after drinking highly acidic beverages such as coffee, soda, or juice, be sure to rinse your mouth thoroughly. This will prevent the breakdown of the filling materials.

Alternatives to Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are a common dental procedure. They are also the most effective way to repair a decaying tooth. In many cases, dental fillings can be avoided simply by practicing proper oral hygiene. If you don’t have a cavity in the first place, you won’t require a dental filling.

One situation which oftentimes does not require a filling is when a child has a cavity in a baby tooth. Since this tooth will eventually fall out, it is not necessary to repair the decay. Your child’s dentist may advise removing the decayed area, but filling may be an unneeded expense.

However, when an adult tooth is impacted by a cavity, it is important to address it before the decay spreads throughout your mouth.

There are exciting new techniques that are arriving on the dental scene that may eliminate the need for dental fillings! Procedures that use Silver Diamine Fluoride have shown great promise in preventing the growth of decay. Although this technique would not remove the decaying area, it may be effective in cases where the cavity is small. 

How Much Do Fillings Cost?

The cost of your dental filling will depend greatly on your unique situation. Many individuals have dental coverage through their insurance which covers this necessary procedure. However, in the event that your dental filling is an out of pocket expense, it is important to weigh your options carefully.

A dental filling is an important investment in your oral health. By addressing decay immediately, you eliminate the potential for more serious issues caused by the infected tooth. The cost of your filling will vary based on a few factors including the following:

• size of the cavity
• location of the cavity
• filling material used
• other complications

In any situation, your dentist will be able to advise you on a dental filling procedure and material that works for both your situation and your budget.

Final Thoughts on Dental Fillings

Although a dental filling is not a permanent solution, it is the most effective way to address a cavity in one or more teeth. Luckily, some types of dental fillings can last longer than 30 years. The longevity of your dental filling will depend largely on the type of dental filling material that is used.

The various types of filling materials all have their own pros and cons. While gold fillings are the most durable, they are also pricey and quite visible. Composite resin fillings, on the other hand, appear completely natural in the mouth. However, they have the shortest lifespan, usually lasting only 5 to 7 years.

In addition to the type of filling material that is used for your dental fillings, your oral healthcare habits will also affect the longevity of your fillings. Practicing proper oral hygiene such as brushing and flossing daily, avoiding hard or sticky foods, and maintaining bi-annual dental checkups are the best ways to increase the longevity of your dental filling.

Working with a Tulsa Dentist is the best way to decide which type of dental filling is best for your unique situation. Click here for more information regarding dental fillings and other dental procedures.

Related Questions

Are dental crowns better than dental fillings? Both dental crowns and fillings have a unique place in the realm of dental care. Crowns and bridges can be used in situations that require a tooth or several teeth to be removed due to infection or disease. On the other hand, fillings are used to address minor decay in the form of cavities. In some situations where a cavity has progressed to an advanced state, a dental crown may need to be used to repair the situation.

What causes cavities? Simply put, a cavity is a form of decay in a tooth. The condition can be caused by poor oral hygiene or bacteria which eat through a tooth. Additionally, some individuals are simply more prone to cavities based on genetic factors, despite their best attempts at oral hygiene. Almost 90% of individuals in the United States will have at least one cavity in their lifetime. Dental fillings are the best treatment for cavities.

The post How Long Do Fillings Last? first appeared on The Dental Studio of South Tulsa.

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