Utilize Your Dental Benefits Before They Expire 2021

Utilize Your Dental Benefits Before They Expire - College HIll

Utilize Your Dental Benefits Before They Expire At End of Year

The new year is nearly upon us! As the year 2020 draws to a close, so will your dental insurance benefits. Now is the time to take advantage of your dental benefits if you haven’t already.

If you haven’t been in to see your Easton PA dentist this year, we suggest making your dental appointment today. Dental cleanings and checkups are filling up fast! Not sure how you could take full advantage of your dental benefits? Here are some ways you can utilize your dental benefits before they expire. 

Maximize Your Dental Care

Without professional help from the Best Dentist College Hill PA, dental problems can get worse over time. So, it’s best to get a good understanding of which services are covered by your dental insurance plan. Typically, these benefits cover preventive dental treatment, such as x-rays, dental cleanings, and full mouth evaluation.

Note that if your full coverage benefits are not used by December 31st, you will lose those benefits completely. Yes, unfortunately, do not roll over to the next year. The good news is that you can still utilize your dental benefits until they run out. Make sure you use your dental benefits with Modern family dentistry Easton PA to avoid severe dental complications such as tooth decay. 

Our Dentist in College Hill PA is familiar with many dental insurance plans. We will help you maximize your benefits as best as possible. 

Do Not Put Off Your Dental Treatment

If you postpone the treatment Dr. Moghadam recommends, it can make the problem even worse. Dr. Green, an emergency dentist in Parker, CO, agrees that if the issue is not addressed when recommended, then it’ll likely be more costly to fix in the future.

According to the National Association of Dental Insurers, only 2.6 percent of individuals with dental insurance plans maximize their dental benefits.

Every year, patients miss out on dental treatment in Easton because they avoid seeing their dentist. Patients pay these dental insurance companies so that their preventative services are covered. Preventative dentistry includes dental cleanings, x-rays, fluoride treatments, and more. 

Our Dental Savings Plan

If you have not already used up your dental insurance coverage, now is the time to take advantage of the comprehensive dental treatments that you may need. This may be dental crowns, dental implants, wisdom teeth removal. 

If you are close to reaching your annual limit, College Hill Dental Group offers a Smile Protection Plan for patients in Easton, PA. This dental savings plan is similar to dental insurance. 

You can also consider starting treatment and finishing it in the new year when your benefits reset. If you are close to reaching your annual limit, College Hill Dental Group offers a Smile Protection Plan for patients in Easton, PA. This dental savings plan is similar to dental insurance. No dental insurance? Contact College Hill Dental Group to learn more. Schedule your appointment today!

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in December, 2020 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

How to Treat Swollen Gums

how to treat swollen gums - College Hill Dental Group

How to Treat Swollen Gums

There can be any number of reasons for experiencing swelling in your gums. There may be other accompanying symptoms, including bleeding from the gums. You may not feel pain from the swelling in your gums, but it might lead you to feel enough discomfort that you reach out to your emergency dentist in Easton, PA.

At our Easton, PA dental practice, we offer treatments to help address your swollen gums. It is important, however, to first identify the cause of your swollen gums.

Calcified Plaque and Tartar

The majority of swelling in the gums can be attributed to plaque on the teeth and gums. This white filmy material that accumulates on the surface of teeth and along the gum lines is responsible for the formation of cavities. It is also responsible for infections in the gums. The plaque that accumulates along the gum lines begins to form in pockets along the gums. Once the plaque is in these pockets, it cannot be effectively removed with brushing and flossing alone. This can result in an immune response by the body, which can result in inflammation in the gums.

The plaque will calcify into tartar, which can be removed only during the professional cleaning offered by your dental hygienist at College Hill Dental Group.

Allergic Irritation

It is possible to experience an allergic reaction to some of the ingredients that can be found in the foods you enjoy. Toothpaste and medications you take may also contain ingredients that result in swelling in your gums. Another concern is that those allergic to certain metals may struggle with dental restorations made from metals. 

If you do not have a sensitivity to metals or have not had recent restoration work done, a simple elimination diet can help to identify the cause of the inflammation.

Trapped Food Debris

Even with good oral hygiene habits that include brushing and flossing after every meal, it is possible for certain types of foods to get stuck between teeth or under the gums. Popcorn is one of the foods responsible for causing concerns with the gum line, even in situations where the gums are otherwise completely healthy. In just a day or two, you’ll experience discomfort and swelling in the gums. This will often continue until the popcorn piece is removed by your family dentist in Easton, PA. It is also possible that the kernel can be pushed out by the swelling naturally.

Younger patients may struggle to effectively brush and floss, which can lead to food debris being trapped between their teeth and gums. Visit with your kids’ dentist in Easton, PA, to get a professional cleaning and a brushing and flossing demonstration.

Burning your mouth on foods like pizza, nachos, or coffee can create a temporary area of trauma in the mouth. These usually only last 10-14 days and are directly related to the heat of the food on your gum tissue.

Periodontal Disease

Gum disease is very common. Whether you have the earliest stages known as gingivitis or a more advanced stage, treating your gum disease as soon as is possible is important. Gum disease can quickly advance and lead to inflammation and widespread infection. This could lead you to need extensive dental care, says Dr. Moghadam.

Treatments for Swollen Gums

Other concerns that could be responsible for your swollen gums could include concerns with dentures or other dental restorations. Misaligned teeth can also lead to discomfort and swelling, as can an abscess. Knowing the reason for the swelling is imperative if the right treatment plan is to be offered.

The good news is that swollen gums can be treated quite effectively. A visit with our 18042 dentists is the best first step. At home, treatments should include brushing and flossing, along with the use of a good alcohol-free mouthwash.

Our friend Dr. Hoang, a Bethlehem, GA dentist, says changes to your diet can also prove beneficial. Avoid popcorn and other foods that can potentially irritate your gums.

So, if you’re in need of an emergency dentist in Easton, PA, you can count on Dr. Dave Moghadam to get you out of pain. Contact College Hill Dental Group to schedule an appointment. 

Ways to Fix a Broken Tooth

Ways to fix a broken tooth - College Hill Dental Group

Ways to Fix a Broken Tooth

Have you fallen and cracked or broken your tooth? Perhaps a piece of hard candy or a bone in your dinner resulted in a painful crack? Realizing that your tooth is damaged can be worrisome. It would be best if you considered calling your emergency dentist in Easton, PA.

Your tooth can be repaired, but you are definitely on the clock. A cracked or broken tooth can lead to advanced decay and the ultimate loss of the tooth. As soon as you recognize that there is damage to a tooth, make an emergency appointment to be seen by Dr. Moghadam.

We offer several options to help to fix a broken tooth. The option that is right for you will be determined by the extent of the damage.

Factors That Can Contribute to Broken or Cracked Teeth

The enamel on our teeth is considered to be the strongest part of the body. That said, it is under constant attack by bacteria. It can also sustain damage from excess force or a direct blow. Many everyday activities put our teeth at risk for damage. Whether it’s riding a bike to work or enjoying a big cup of coffee, our teeth are susceptible to damage. 

Over time, decay will weaken your tooth. From there, it’s just a matter of biting down the wrong way. 

Repairing a Broken Tooth With Veneers

Veneers are wafer-thin coverings that are applied to the outer surface of your teeth. Porcelain veneers can be color-matched to your natural teeth to get a seamless look you’ll love. As a cosmetic dentist in Easton, PA, we are confident that you’ll love your veneers’ results.

The veneer is bonded onto the tooth’s front surface and can last for decades with adequate care. Some patients opt to get just one veneer set on a misshapen, stained, or otherwise chipped tooth. In comparison, others may opt for veneers on every tooth.

Veneers can only be placed on healthy teeth. Any cavities or other signs of decay will need to be addressed before the veneers can be placed.

Repairing a Broken Tooth With Dental Bonding

Dental bonding uses a tooth-colored composite resin to repair teeth that are chipped, discolored, misshapen, cracked, or have minor gaps. The composite bonding can last for as long as a decade.

Your Easton, PA dentist will mold and smooth the composite resin until the desired result is achieved. A special UV light will be applied to set the bonding materials. Once set, your dentist will polish the tooth, so it looks natural. 

Repairing a Broken Tooth With a Dental Crown

If there is extensive damage to the tooth, you may be a candidate for a dental crown. Additionally, a crown is one of the most popular restorative options for fixing a broken tooth.

A dental crown is a tooth-colored porcelain cap that is set over the natural tooth. The crown will offer protection for the tooth, and it can improve the appearance of the repaired tooth. Without the crown, the tooth is at risk for advanced decay. Dr. Cody Boals, a family dentist in Colorado Springs, says that you are also at risk of losing the tooth if the damage progresses too far. Suppose your dentist recommends that a dental crown, visit College Hill Dental Group for same-day crowns in Easton, PA. With advanced dental technology, our team can repair a single tooth or multiple teeth.

Replacing a Broken Tooth With a Dental Implant

If the damage to the tooth is extensive, the tooth may be no longer treatable. Your dentist in Easton, PA, will recommend that a tooth extraction be your next step. Loss of a tooth can feel upsetting, but there are plenty of options available.

One of the options Dr. David Moghadam may recommend is a dental implant. The implant serves as the new permanent root for a prosthetic tooth. Made from a biocompatible titanium post, the implant is surgically placed into the jawbone.

The titanium post will need time to heal and fuse with your jawbone. Once this has been accomplished, the dental crown will be placed atop the implant. Your smile will be restored, good as new!

Visit Your Easton, PA Dentist

If you have any damage to your tooth, whether it is broken or cracked, you will need to be seen by a professional. From there, you will undergo a full-mouth examination, and then you’ll be given a treatment plan.

So, if you cracked or chipped your tooth, don’t wait to get it repaired. Contact College Hill Dental Group to learn about your options. Remember, we offer same-day crowns!

National Brush Day

National Brush Day - College Hill Dental Group

Happy National Brush Day from Your Easton, PA Dentists

National Brush Day is observed each year on the 1st day of November, the day right after Halloween. Our patients will learn this is one of our favorite holidays to recognize. This spooky day is known for traditionally being the day where the most candy is consumed by children and adults alike. National Brush Day started in 2012 to bring awareness to both children and parents about just how poor dental health can take a serious toll on their overall health. 

At our Easton, PA dental practice, we love to see our patients with a healthy smile. National Brush Day serves as a great opportunity to schedule the annual checkup and professional dental cleaning for every member of the family. So, we’ve gathered these brushing tips to help keep every member of the family smiling beautifully.

Just Two Minutes, Twice a Day

Teeth should be brushed in the morning and in the evening before bed. It is important to brush teeth for a full two minutes. Any less is generally not effective enough to remove the plaque and food debris on and between the teeth. At College Hill Dental Group, we recommend using a timer to track the two minutes. Additionally, try playing fun songs about tooth brushing to encourage children to stick with those two minutes.

Your Brushing Technique is Important

So, are you using the right technique to brush your teeth? Believe it or not, many of us are not.

  • Hold the soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
  • Using gentle and short strokes, move the brush back and forth.
  • Brush all surfaces of the teeth, including the inner, outer, and chewing surfaces.
  • Tilt the toothbrush vertically and use up and down strokes to clean the inside areas of teeth.
  • Also, be sure to brush your tongue as it can accumulate bacteria that contribute to bad breath.

Don’t forget that your home oral hygiene routine is just one part of your dental wellness. You will need to floss, use mouthwash, ensure your diet is balanced, stay hydrated, and of course, visit with your dentist every six months.

Selecting a New Toothbrush

What better day of the year to remind you that it is important to get a new toothbrush every few months. As your Easton, PA family dentist, we recommend that you select a soft-bristled toothbrush for every member of the family. Furthemore, children’s toothbrushes should be ultra-soft bristled and should be the right size for their mouths.

Ideally, Dr. Moghadam says you should replace your toothbrush every three months. Some prefer to wait to replace their brushes after their six-month checkup or professional cleaning. As your 18042 dentists, we do suggest that you replace your new toothbrush before the bristles start to show signs of wear. Our friends at Digital Doc, the #1 digital dental sensor provider, agrees that a damaged toothbrush is not going to be very effective at cleaning your teeth.

It is important to take care of dental concerns when they first become recognizable. The longer your dental problems go without being treated, the more likely you’ll end up visiting an emergency dentist in Easton, PA. So, schedule checkups and professional cleanings for the whole family with College Hill Dental Group today!

Oral Health Tips for Halloween

oral health tips for Halloween - College Hill Dental Group

Oral Health Tips for Halloween

Halloween is a night of spooky good fun. Scares are around each corner, with little goblins and ghosts running from door to door collecting their candy. If you ask Dr. Moghadam at College Hill Dental Group, he’ll tell you the scariest part of Halloween might just be those delicious sweet treats. Not only will kids come home with their Halloween buckets overflowing with assorted sugary treats, but the copious amounts of candy in stores makes it tempting for adults too. As your family dentist in Easton, PA, we are dedicated to working with you to help to achieve a healthy smile. This includes helping you to protect your oral wellness from some of the frights of Halloween. In this article, we share some simple oral health tips for Halloween.

Moderation in Treats

We all know that moderation is a key part of almost everything that we do in life, including the sweet treats we love. We aren’t saying you should completely cut out candy and other sweets from your diet.

Taking an approach that focuses on moderation is much better for all involved. Limit your treats to around mealtimes and avoid mindlessly reaching for the delicious mini candies in the bowl.

There is an increase in saliva production during mealtimes. Saliva plays an important role in helping to rinse your mouth of any remaining debris. This includes the sugar that may otherwise cling to your teeth and contribute to cavities.

Drink Plenty of Water

It’s easy for all of us to get caught up in Halloween festivities, to the degree that we neglect to keep hydrated. Keep yourself and your little ones drinking plenty of water, particularly if you will be consuming those sugary treats.

Water can help to keep your body hydrated. It can also help to rinse your teeth and your mouth’s interior when you’re out enjoying your Halloween celebrations.

Be sure to limit or skip those sugar-filled sodas and fruit punches that may flow freely with spooky regularity on Halloween.

Try to Limit Sticky and Hard Treats

If you or your child have fixed traditional braces, you know the importance of skipping those sticky and hard treats. Although these treats are tasty, they can significantly damage the brackets and wires of the braces.

There are also concerns with dental crowns. Hard candies can quickly lead to cracks or other damage to those crowns. If a crown has been damaged or dislodged, you should call before you need to see an emergency dentist in Easton, PA. Unchecked, the damage may allow decay to set in.

These same treats can also be a bad idea for those without braces or crowns. The sugar from that sticky candy may cling to your teeth. It can be hard for the sugar to be washed away without brushing your teeth. So, the sugar could sit on your teeth for hours on end.

Brush, Floss, and Maintain Good Habits

There is no better time to remind everyone in the family of just how important it is to brush twice a day and floss once a day. Children should be using a toothpaste with fluoride in it, and get frequent reminders that brushing after meals will prevent cavities.

This is also a great opportunity to get new toothbrushes. Children are often more likely to use spinning toothbrushes. Choosing a toothbrush with their favorite character on it can help them get excited about brushing again.

Dr. Cody Boals, a dentist in Colorado Springs, says that it’s a good idea to wait half an hour before brushing after eating acidic foods. Acidic foods can weaken the enamel on your teeth. Brushing too hard can result in damage to the enamel.

If you or your little ones need guidance about the right brushing and flossing habits, remember that your dental hygienist can offer some great tips at your next cleaning.

Skipping Those Prosthetic Toy Teeth

Generally speaking, it’s not a good idea to wear fake toy teeth. Even the cutest little vampire could accidentally damage their teeth and gums. What may start as a fun night of Halloween festivities could result in a trip to an emergency dentist in Easton, PA. Some of these toy teeth are also potential choking hazards, which is an extra safety consideration.

Visit Your Easton, PA Dentist

Now that you’ve learned some oral health tips for Halloween, you can enjoy your spooky holiday. Don’t forget to keep up with your routine checkups and cleanings. Preventative dentistry is key to a happy and healthy smile! If you’re interested in dental care in Easton, PA, please contact College Hill Dental Group. Our team is here to serve you and your family.

So, what are your plans for this Halloween? No matter where your Halloween adventures may take you, we hope you stay safe! 

Oral Surgery Recovery Tips

Oral surgery recovery tips - College Hill Dental Group

Oral Surgery: Recovery Tips

Are you feeling apprehensive about your upcoming oral surgery? For many dental patients, it’s not knowing what to expect during recovery that can cause much of the concern. As your trusted dentist in Easton, PA, we are committed to ensuring you have only the best in experiences with each step of your dental wellness journey.

We’ve gathered our top oral surgery recovery tips to ensure your recovery goes as smoothly as is possible. Reduction of discomfort or pain and avoiding infection should be two of your primary goals during recovery.

Tip 1: Follow the Instructions You Are Given

Whether you’ve had a simple procedure or something more complicated like a tooth replacement in Easton PA, patients should follow the instructions they are provided. 

The instructions and recommendations provided by your dentist will help to ensure that your recovery goes well. Your dentist may recommend that you skip brushing your teeth, avoid flossing, and don’t use mouthwash for a set period of healing time. This is likely the only time your dentist will make this recommendation!

Dr. Leeson, a St. Pete, FL dentist, says that your mouth may be too sensitive for even the mild abrasiveness that can come from brushing. The recommendation may also include brushing everywhere but the area that was operated on.

Flossing can be irritating for sensitive gums. Additionally, the rinsing and swirling of mouthwash can be harsh on healing gums and teeth. The alcohol in it may also sting. Saltwater rinses might be the best bet.

So, if you have questions about the instructions, don’t hesitate to call your dentist.

Tip 2: Get Some Rest After Oral Surgery

Undergoing sedation dentistry in Easton, PA, makes the oral surgery much more manageable, in all ways. You may be feeling drowsy after your procedure. So, you should not drive yourself home. You should also avoid doing anything too strenuous. 

Do your best to avoid bending or lifting anything heavy. This can potentially dislodge the small blood clots that form as you start to heal. Bleeding can become a concern.

Use extra pillows to prop your head up, or consider dozing in a comfortable recliner for the first night.

Rest is important for a body that needs to heal itself.

Tip 3: Ice Your Mouth

Whether it was a scheduled procedure or a dental emergency in Easton, PA, you’ll likely experience swelling and bruising. This is quite normal for the first few postoperative days.

Applying ice packs to the swollen area for up 30 minutes at a time can make a world of difference. Take 15-minute breaks between applications. Furthermore, the swelling should decrease within a few short days. If it does not, or you are feverish, you should call our office to be seen by Dr. David Moghadam.

Tip 4: Take Care of Your Mouth

It’s normal to experience some mild to moderate bleeding in the first few postoperative days. A bit of folded gauze can help to stem the bleeding. Blood clots typically form as a way of protecting delicate healing tissue. Don’t put too much pressure on it, as you don’t want to disrupt the clotting process. After oral surgery, patients should avoid using straws or drinking fizzy drinks like sodas. Avoid smoking and using a mouthwash during those crucial first few days of healing. If the bleeding continues past the first 23 hours or is severe, call your dentist immediately. 

Tip 6: Take Care With Your Diet

You may be tempted to eat some of your favorite comfort foods after surgery. However, you need to protect your mouth while it heals. Whether you’ve had an extraction, root canal therapy, or a tooth replacement, you should keep your diet simple.

For example, oatmeal, applesauce, yogurt, and cool soups are a good option. Keep away from ice cold or hot foods, and definitely avoid anything too chewy or spicy.

In just a few days, you can graduate to foods like pasta and others that are soft. Once you’ve completely healed, you’ll be free to enjoy all of your favorites again.

Tip 7: Take Your Prescribed Medications

Depending on the extent of the oral surgery, your dentist may prescribe a medication to help you to manage the pain. You may also be prescribed a precautionary antibiotic. So, be sure to take your medications as they are prescribed.

You may be able to control your pain with over-the-counter pain relievers after the first day. Your pain should subside within two days. So, if the pain seems to be getting worse, you should call your dentist.

Tip 9: Go to Follow Up Appointments

Even if you feel you are healing well, be sure to stick with your scheduled follow up appointments. These appointments allow your dentist to gauge how well you are healing and recommend the next steps to ensure your dental wellness.

If you have any questions or concerns about these oral surgery recovery tips, please contact our office.

Conquering Your Fear of the Dentist

conquering your fear of the dentist - College Hill Dental Group

Conquering Your Fear of the Dentist

How long do you wait until you call the dentist when you’re feeling discomfort? Quite often, we find that some of our patients only call their dentist in Easton, PA, when their pain is unbearable. So, why do people put off going to the dentist? Great question. As a dentist who’s been serving the Easton, PA community since 1944, we’ve heard and seen it all. Most patients who avoid the dentist are doing so out of fear. Their fear of the dentist can stem from a few different things, whether it be from past dental experiences, myths, etc.

We understand that going to the dentist isn’t everyone’s favorite thing to do. However, the longer people put off going to the dentist, the more time and money they will spend. Not to mention the amount of pain or discomfort, their dental problems can cause. 

No need to worry, Dr. David Moghadam, your favorite emergency dentist in Easton, PA, shares some tips for conquering your fear of the dentist. 

Identify the Cause of Your Fear

We understand that not all fear is based on the same experiences and worries. To find the best solution for you to overcome your fear of the dentist, you will need to understand what is triggering this anxiety and fear.

  • Are you worried about pain?
  • Are you concerned about needles?
  • Have you had a bad experience at the dentist?
  • Is it the fear of the unknown?
  • Does the sound of the drill overwhelm you?

We offer a number of solutions to help get you through each concern that you may have. This includes encouraging you to listen to favorite music or a podcast while you’re in the chair, to help you to relax.

Communication Is So Important

Rest assured, we take all of our patients’ concerns very seriously. A good dentist and compassionate team of professionals will encourage you to share your fears and concerns. The more that we know about you and your concerns, the better we can help you. 

We see patients who have a fear of the dentist regularly. Communicate your fears and your needs. This allows us to best support you. We want you to have a positive experience when you are in our hands.

Schedule a Visit to Our Dental Office in Easton, PA

Anxiety can stem from not knowing what will happen. With this in mind, we suggest that you schedule a visit to our office before you come in for treatment. If you do have the ability to come and pay a visit to the office. Our team can help to schedule a good time for you to stop by and meet everyone. Becoming familiar with friendly faces can make the idea of placing your trust in their hands much more manageable.

This visit will also serve as a great opportunity for you to share your fears with the team members. The more that we know, the more support we can offer you.

Schedule Your Appointments Early In The Day

There’s something about getting something over and done with first thing in the morning. Dr. O’Grady, an emergency dentist in Denver, CO, says that if you schedule your appointment first thing, you’ll be able to get your appointment done without needing to spend the day dreading it.

You’ll feel less frazzled and stressed, which will allow you to better focus on working through your fears when you’re in the chair.

Make Your Needs Clear

While our dental professionals are skilled at understanding the assortment of noises our patients make when working on their teeth, sometimes clear communication is the better way. Before treatment, make your needs clear. Establish a clear signal for stop, so your dentist can stop if you need to take a break.

Ask for music, blankets, and other comforts if you need them. At College Hill Dental Group, we want you to have the best experience possible.

Know Your Sedation Dentistry Options

Sedation dentistry is incredibly helpful for all dental patients. Certainly, it’s a must when considering procedures like dental implants in Easton, PA. But did you know that there are several methods of sedation dentistry to consider? 

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is one of the most commonly used options. This gas can help you to better relax while you’re getting work done. Other options could include anti-anxiety medications to be taken prior to your appointment.

Overcome Your Fear of the Dentist with College Hill Dental Group

The best way to learn what will work for you is to call and discuss your options. Whether it has been a few months or a few years since you last saw a dentist, please don’t let it keep you from getting the oral healthcare that you need. We offer a judgment-free office and the compassion needed to help you conquer your fears. Our patients are always our number one priority. 

Celebrating Dental Hygiene Month

dental hygiene month - College Hill Dental Group

Celebrating Dental Hygiene Month

The whole month of October, we’re celebrating Dental Hygiene Month! Below are some of the ways you can celebrate your smile at home. 

Tips for a Happy & Healthy Smile

Brush Twice a Day for Two Minutes

Brushing your teeth is an essential part of any oral hygiene regimen. You’d be surprised how much plaque can build up on your teeth just after one day. Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes helps reduce the likelihood of cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems. If you can, try to brush after each meal. Many Easton, PA dentists recommend using ADA approved toothpaste as well as a soft bristle toothbrush. 

Dr. Moghadam recommends switching out your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or as soon as the bristles start to get break down.

Floss

Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth. It ensures that the small crevices in your mouth are thoroughly cleaned. Those who do not floss daily are more likely to get cavities and develop gum disease. 

Here’s how you should floss:

  1. Use about 18 inches of dental floss and wrap it around two fingers, leaving about 1-2 inches of floss.
  2. Holding the floss with your thumb and index finger, you will insert the floss between two teeth.
  3. Gently move the floss up and down, rubbing it against both sides of each tooth (avoid hitting your gums).
  4. Once you’ve reached your gum line, curve the floss, and move it back and forth between one of the teeth.
  5. Move the floss to the next set of teeth, repeat the steps above.

Rinse

Incorporating mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine can make a world of difference. Luckily, there’s a mouthwash for everyone! Whether you’re fighting bad breath, plaque cavities, or wanting whiter teeth. Dr. Moghadam recommends finding an ADA approved mouthwash for the best results. 

Chew

Studies have shown that chewing sugar-free gum helps put a stop to tooth decay. Gum naturally helps produce more saliva, which fights off cavities. Harmful bacteria and food particles will be washed away. Dr. Cody Boals, a dentist in Colorado Springs, points out that those suffering from dry mouth would benefit greatly from chewing sugar-free gum.

Why National Dental Hygiene Month is Important

  • Encourages Good Oral Health – Good oral health takes a little bit of time each day, but it’s all worth it in the end. Without a proper oral hygiene regimen, you are at risk of developing serious dental problems. Our teeth are meant to last a lifetime, but you have to give them love and care. There’s an old saying, “You don’t have to brush your teeth, just the ones you want to keep.” 
  • Celebrates Hard Working Hygienists – College Hill Dental Group has been serving the Easton, PA community since 1944. We’ve had the honor of seeing generations of patients, and National Dental Hygiene Month is the perfect holiday to celebrate our hard-working hygienists. 
  • Keeps Us Accountable For Our Health – Studies have linked gum disease to other serious diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease, osteoporosis, and more. Taking the time to take care of our smiles will have a positive effect on our overall health.

Our College Hill Dental Group team encourages you and your loved ones to take steps in the right direction. If you need a family dentist in Easton, PA, turn to College Hill Dental Group. We offer a wide range of dental services, including cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, and emergency dental care. 

Signs You Need Dentures

signs you need dentures - College Hill Dental Group

Signs You Need Dentures

Your smile is one of the first things people will notice about you. So, it’s important to take good care of your teeth if you want them to last a lifetime. However, College Hill Dental Group understands keeping your teeth for life is harder for some. Don’t feel down if you’re missing one or more teeth. We offer many restorative dentistry services in Easton, PA.  Treatments like dental implants, bridges, and dentures have allowed cosmetic dentists in Easton, PA, to fill gaps in teeth. In this article, our dentists explore some signs you need dentures.

Do I Need Dentures?

While these treatments work for patients of all ages, a lot of folks assume that dentures are only for elders. True, a large percentage of the people missing most of their teeth tend to be advanced in age. However, tooth loss can really happen at any age.

According to Louisiana State University Health, 69% of adults between 35 and 44 have lost one or more permanent teeth, and recent surveys have found that approximately 20 million women over age 40 wear full or partial dentures. So, how do you determine if you need dentures? If any of the following applies to you, you should contact College Hill Dental Group for a consultation.

Some Signs You Need Dentures

You Don’t Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Most dentists in 18042, Easton, PA, would agree that prevention is better than cure. Visiting your Easton, PA dentist at least once every six months allows them to keep an eye on your oral health. Issues like decay, cavities, and gum disease can be nipped in the bud if you keep up with your dentist appointments. 

However, if you don’t have them treated early enough, they will progress, ultimately leading to severe dental issues like tooth loss and periodontitis. So if you haven’t seen your dentist in a long time, you may be sitting on a time bomb that may require you to have dentures later on.

You Have One or More Missing Teeth

Tooth loss is fairly common, with around 178 million Americans missing at least one tooth. While dental implants and bridges can work for one or two missing teeth, experts from College Hill Dental Group recommend dentures for people who have lost more than two or three teeth to prevent excessive pressure on the remaining teeth. Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, says that if the missing teeth aren’t replaced, the remaining ones will shift over time, affecting your bite.

Additionally, when you have fewer teeth, they work harder and are exposed to more wear and tear than they can withstand, and you may lose them in the future. Depending on how many natural teeth you have left, you can use either partial or complete dentures. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when there are still some natural teeth left. If you seek treatment early enough, you may be a suitable candidate for partial dentures.  

You Have Gum Disease

Also called gingivitis or periodontal disease, it is caused when bacteria in plaque build-up. As a result, you have inflamed and bleeding gums, especially when you brush your teeth. Left untreated, gum disease advances into the more severe periodontitis. Dr. O’Grady, a cosmetic dentist in Denver, CO, explains that this causes the inner layer of the gum and bone to pull away from the teeth, exposing part of their roots and forming pockets.

As the disease progresses, the pocket grows as more gum and bone tissue is destroyed. Without a strong, stable surface to anchor on, the teeth become loose, which can easily lead to tooth loss. Gum disease is actually the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Luckily, it can be easily prevented by proper oral hygiene. Watch out for any of the following symptoms:

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums.
  • Bleeding gums, especially during and after tooth brushing. 
  • Receding gums
  • Persistent bad breath or taste in your mouth
  • Deep pockets between the teeth and gums.
  • Loose or shifting teeth

If you experience any of the above symptoms, contact an emergency dentist in Easton, PA, from College Hill Dental Group immediately for treatment.

However, if you are suffering from tooth loss, gum disease, or are seeking wisdom tooth removal in Easton, PA, contact our dentists at College Hill Dental Group today for a consultation. We’d love to help.

Why Choose a Modern Dental Office?

Why Choose a Modern Dental Office in Easton - College Hill Dental Group

Why Choose a Modern Dental Office?

Since it was first practiced years and years ago, dentistry has grown and evolved tremendously. Dentists can do a lot more than they used to, which is why so many patients prefer a modern dental office. Though teeth are designed to last all your life, they are still susceptible to damage.

At College Hill Dental Group, we are committed to providing preventive and restorative dental care. Most Easton, PA dentists agree that prevention is better than cure. However, if your smile isn’t at 100%, we will do our best to restore its functional and aesthetic roles. Living in an age of advanced dental technology, a modern dental office can provide better treatments for more patients. 

Modern family dentistry in Easton, PA, makes preventive measures a lot more effective, increasing the chances of catching issues in their infancy and fixing them. Restorative and replacement treatments will also be as effective, with higher chances of long term success. So what exactly does modern family dentistry at College Hill Dental Group have to offer?

Digital X-Rays

X-rays are the go-to whenever a medical professional needs to examine what’s inside of your body. In this case, an emergency dentist in Easton, PA, will use low levels of radiation to capture images of the inside of your teeth and gums. This allows them to spot dental issues like cavities, impacted teeth, and tooth decay,

While traditional x-rays use very low levels of radiation and are relatively safe, Digital Doc says that portable digital x-rays devices use 90% less radiation than conventional x-rays. Digital x-rays also produce larger and sharper images, allowing the dentist to make a more accurate diagnosis and prescribe a more effective treatment.

Intraoral Cameras

Another advanced tool cosmetic dentists in Easton, PA use to examine your mouth is the intraoral cameras. It is often difficult for the dentist to get a clear view of your mouth. It’s also even more difficult for the dentist to show you what they see. Without this technology, it makes it difficult for the dentist to make an accurate diagnosis of the state of your teeth, especially if the damage is still minimal.

An intraoral camera is essentially a tiny camera attached to the end of a small wand. It transmits images to a computer in real-time. Intraoral cameras allow the dentist to see every aspect of your teeth and gums in clear, precise detail, a feat standard mirror examinations cannot achieve. The intraoral camera also allows you to see the state of your teeth up close and personal. This may help increase your commitment to your oral care routines, and your dental appointments will be more effective overall.

Additionally, the camera allows Dr. David Moghadam to document the entire procedure. With almost unlimited storage, they can upload photos to the computer and print a hard copy for your insurance company’s records or procedure verification.

3D Printing

Thanks to 3D printing technology, dentists are able to provide patients with the best dental services available. At College Hill Dental Group, we use advanced dental technology that transforms simple scans of your teeth into stunning porcelain crowns and bridges. 

Patients are blown away by how fast they receive their restorations and appliances. That’s right, you no longer have to wait weeks on end to get your restorations back from the dental laboratory. The 3D printing technology creates three-dimensional versions of your teeth. This allows us to create custom crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, and bridges. Learn all the benefits of 3D printing today by contacting College Hill Dental Group.

Same-Day CAD/CAM Crowns

Gone are the days we take gooey impressions of your teeth. Our CAD/CAM technology allows us to detailed digital images of your teeth. With this, we can provide patients with same-day crowns in Easton, PA. Whether you need a single tooth or multiple tooth repair, College Hill Dental Group can help.

The powerful software, coupled with our advanced training, leads to a crown milled from the finest porcelain available, just in minutes. Your new crown will then be firmly put into place all within one appointment. 

With the help of modern dental technology, College Hill Dental Group has been practicing accurate and effective preventive and restorative dental care for years. Are you looking for a modern dental office in Easton, PA? Contact us today for a consultation.