Dental Anxiety Tips

Dental anxiety How to overcome your fear of the dentist

Dental Anxiety: How to overcome your fear of the dentist

Overcoming Dental Anxiety in Easton PA

Going to the dentist can be intimidating for many people. It’s a common fear, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. However, visiting the dentist is an important part of maintaining your oral health. If you live in Easton PA, there are several steps you can take to make sure that your dental visits are as stress-free as possible. Let’s take a look at a few tips and tricks for overcoming dental anxiety.

Dental anxiety How to overcome your fear of the dentist

Find the Right Dentist

One of the most important things is to find a dentist that you feel comfortable with. Do some research online and read reviews from other patients who have visited the practice before. Look for a dentist that is patient, accommodating, and willing to answer any questions that you may have about your procedure or overall oral health. Once you find a practice that feels right for you, book an appointment so that you can get acquainted with tFind the Right Dentist he staff and check out the office before your actual procedure takes place.

Take Care Of Yourself

Another way to help alleviate dental anxiety is by taking care of yourself before your visit. Make sure that you get plenty of rest beforehand so that you will be well-rested when it comes time for your appointment. You should also eat something light beforehand so that your stomach isn’t growling during the procedure! And lastly, make sure to take deep breaths throughout your visit—this will help keep your heart rate down and ensure that you remain calm during the entire process.

Be Honest With Your Dentist

If there’s anything in particular that makes you nervous about going to the dentist—whether it’s a specific tool or procedure—let them know ahead of time so they can prepare accordingly. This will help put your mind at ease knowing that they understand what makes you anxious and are taking steps make sure everything goes smoothly during your visit! Dental anxiety doesn’t have to stand in between you and good oral health! By following these tips, anyone living in Easton PA can overcome their fear of visiting the dentist and focus on keeping their teeth healthy and strong! Be sure to do some research beforehand so that you can find a practice where all of your needs will be met with kindness, patience, understanding—and maybe even some jokes along the way! Taking these extra steps will not only help relieve any anxiety but will also ensure an overall positive experience at each visit!

Dental procedures for patients over 50

Dental procedures patients over 50 should consider

Dental Procedures For Patients Over 50

Dental Procedures to Consider for Patients Over 50 in Easton, PA

If you are over the age of 50 and live in Easton, Pennsylvania, it is important to understand the importance of regular dental care. As we age, our oral health needs change and certain dental procedures become more important. Here are some of the most common dental procedures that patients over the age of 50 should consider. 

Dental procedures patients over 50 should consider

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments help protect teeth against tooth decay and cavities. It can also help fill in small areas on teeth that have been worn down due to brushing or eating acidic foods. Since fluoride is available in many products like toothpaste and mouthwash, this treatment is easy to access for those who may not be able to make it into a dentist’s office regularly.

Professional Teeth Cleaning

Professional teeth cleaning helps remove plaque buildup from your teeth which can prevent further damage from occurring. This procedure should be done every six months or more depending on the individual’s oral health habits. Professional dental cleanings will help keep your gums healthy and your smile looking great! 

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a great way for those who have lost their natural teeth due to aging or an accident to regain their smile. These implants are strong enough to last a lifetime if properly taken care of and provide a natural look as well as feel. The process takes several visits but is worth it in the end as they look, feel, and function just like real teeth! 

Do I Have A Tooth Infection?

Do I Have A Tooth Infection?

Everything You Need To Know About A Tooth Infection

What Is A Tooth Infection?

Do I have a tooth infection? A tooth infection can cause pain, swelling, and damage to the surrounding teeth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the jawbone, resulting in further damage in the future. It is typically caused by a build-up of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Plaque can irritate the gums, causing them to become inflamed and bleed. A way this can be treated is with antibiotics or a root canal procedure. However, if left untreated, the infection can lead to serious complications. If you think you may have a tooth infection, it is important to see the best dentist in Easton PA, College Hill Dental Group as soon as possible.

Symptoms Of A Tooth Infection 

One of the most common dental problems is an infection of the tooth, known as a dental abscess. A dental abscess occurs when bacteria enter the tooth and begin to multiply. Our friends at High Desert Dental warn us that this can happen due to decay, a deep cavity, or a crack in the tooth. The initial symptoms of a dental abscess are pain and sensitivity, although the pain may worsen as the infection spreads. Other symptoms include swelling, redness, and tenderness in the gums. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection and a root canal to remove any damaged tissue. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tooth.

Treatment For A Tooth Infection

Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection and a root canal to remove any damaged tissue. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tooth. They help to kill the bacteria and reduce inflammation. In some cases, root canal therapy may also be necessary. This involves removing the infected pulp from inside the tooth and cleaning out the root canal. Once the infection is gone, Dr. Brittany Malia will place a filling

Do I Have A Tooth Infection?

Contact College Hill Dental Group Today!

College Hill Dental Group is always glad to hear from current and future patients. If you have any questions about our dental services or would like to schedule an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Signs of a Dead Tooth

signs of a dead tooth - dentist in Easton PA

Signs of a Dead Tooth

As you probably know, creating good oral health habits is very important. With the proper love and care, our teeth can last a lifetime. There are many layers that make up the tooth: the pulp, enamel, and dentin. The pulp of the tooth needs a constant blood supply to remain healthy and alive. A dead tooth occurs when the nerves in the tooth pulp are weakened by an injury or decay. If left untreated, the dead tooth will cause problems with the jaw and other teeth. In this article, our dentists in Easton, PA, discuss some of the signs of a dead tooth and how this dental problem can be avoided.

Potential Causes of a Dead Tooth

A dead tooth is the last thing Dr. Moghadam wants for his patients. There are only a few causes that could lead to a dead tooth:

  • Physical damage to the tooth. A serious injury can cut off the tooth’s blood supply, causing the tooth to die. If you’ve damaged your tooth, contact an emergency dentist immediately.
  • Poor dental hygiene can result in cavities. Untreated cavities can cause inflammation in the tooth pulp, cutting off the tooth’s blood supply and causing it to die. The inflammation usually leads to an abscessed tooth. If you believe you’re experiencing any dental problems, it’s critical that you contact a dental professional. 

Symptoms of a Dead Tooth

Many dental problems go without notice at first. However, if you’re experiencing tooth pain or tooth discoloration, you should see a dentist immediately. The following are some signs of a dead tooth:

  • Tooth pain – If your tooth is gone, you can feel pain in and around it. Pain may be mild or severe as a result of an infection or dying nerves.
  • Tooth discoloration – A dead or dying tooth will not obtain blood supply, causing the tooth’s color to change to yellow, light brown, gray, or black. If the dead tooth is not removed, the discoloration can worsen.
  • Swelling above the gum line
  • Bad breath or bad taste

How Is a Dead Tooth Identified?

It is recommended that you see your dentist as soon as possible if you have a tooth injury or experience some sort of discomfort or discoloration in your tooth so that recovery can begin. During dental checkups and dental X-rays, a dentist can discover a dead tooth.

Options for Treating a Dead Tooth

A dead tooth is a serious dental problem that should be handled by only the best dentists. If you need restorative dentistry, please contact College Hill Dental Group for a consultation.

  • Root Canal Therapy – If your tooth is salvageable, Dr. Moghdam will likely recommend root canal therapy. Root canals clear out any infection on the root of the tooth. To avoid further infection, the dentist will seal the root and place a same-day crown.
  • Tooth Extraction – If your tooth cannot be repaired or is badly damaged, your dentist in Easton, PA, will advise you to have it extracted. Our friend Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, says to only get a tooth extraction if your tooth is truly in bad condition. To restore your smile, you may need a dental implant or partial/full denture. 

Suggestions for Avoiding a Dead Tooth

The good news is a dead tooth can be avoided. As mentioned above, our teeth can last a lifetime if we take good care of them. Here are a few things you can do to avoid a dead tooth:

  • Brushing and flossing twice a day are examples of good oral hygiene.
  • If you engage in contact sports, wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth.
  • Reduce the consumption of sugary foods and drinks to reduce the risk of cavities and decay.
  • Drink plenty of water, particularly after meals, to wash away food particles.
  • Schedule daily dental checkups and cleanings at our dental office in Easton, PA.

If you are searching for the best remedy for a dead tooth, please contact College Hill Dental Group. Dr. Moghadam or Dr. Walbridge will recommend the best treatment plan for your unique smile. We offer an amazing Smile Protection Plan. Give us a call today!

Signs You Need a Tooth Extraction

signs you need a tooth extraction Easton PA

Signs You Need a Tooth Extraction 

Many people visit their dentist in Easton, PA, for a tooth extraction. Why? Well, there are several reasons why your tooth isn’t worth saving. Tooth extractions are typically the last resort at College Hill Dental Group. Below, Dr. Moghadam explores signs you need a tooth extraction. 

Tooth Pain

Tooth pain doesn’t necessarily mean tooth extraction. However, tooth extraction may be necessary if you have tried everything to eliminate the tooth pain and it hasn’t worked. 

For example:

  • Tooth pain post filling, root canal, or crown.
  • Stubborn tooth Infection 
  • Chronic tooth pain

Crowding

Tooth crowding can cause dental chaos. When crowding occurs, it can be detrimental to the look and feel of your smile. Many patients who face crowding will undergo a tooth extraction. In some cases, the patient’s baby teeth never fall out, so they must get a tooth extraction. If you choose not to fix your overcrowded teeth, you could develop the following problems:

  • Tooth decay
  • Gum disease 
  • Pain or discomfort
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Misaligned Teeth

Gum Disease

Inadequate oral health care will lead to gum disease or periodontal disease. This affects both your gums and teeth. Additionally, gum disease affects about 50% of adults in the United States. Bacteria will eat away from the bones that hold your teeth, and eventually, your teeth can begin to decay, making everyday tasks difficult. Bacterial infection can also spread from tooth to tooth. If gum disease is left untreated, you’ll end up with a tooth infection or a “dead tooth.” 

Your dentist can suggest removal of your teeth if:

  • The tooth has been abscessed and contaminated
  • The tooth is loose and is not protected
  • The infection spreads to bones, other teeth, or soft tissues.

Routine cases of gum disease usually do not require dental extraction says our friend Dr. Kacos, an endodontist in Shreveport, LA. It is only when the infection or tooth decay becomes very severe that tooth removal may be necessary to avoid the spread of the infection and to protect other teeth.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

One of the most common signs you need a tooth extraction is impacted wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth become impacted when there’s not enough room in your mouth for the tooth to develop properly. Impacted wisdom teeth can be dangerous because they not only cause pain but also can cause your permanent teeth to shift.

Broken or Chipped Tooth

Accidents and injuries happen all the time. If your teeth are affected, then contact an emergency dentist in Easton, PA. Our dentists will do everything we can to save your tooth. In the event that your permanent tooth must come out, we will work with you to determine the best restorative dentistry option, whether that be dental implants or dentures.

Contact a Dental Office in Easton, PA

Everyone’s smile is unique, which means you’ll need to visit your dentist in Easton, PA, to determine the best course of action. College Hill Dental Group is happily accepting new patients. We also leave room for emergency dental appointments. Contact us today to learn how we can better serve you. 

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!

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. 

Common Dental Emergencies

common dental emergencies - College Hill Dental Group

Reasons for an Emergency Dental Service

Accidents happen. You can take all the precautions in the world, but at the end of the day, you can’t protect yourself from the unexpected. That’s why insurance is a booming industry: it allows you to live freely knowing that whatever happens down the road, you’ll be covered. According to the American Dental Association, more and more Americans have been visiting their dentist for emergency dental services. 

However, according to the association, not all of these patients actually needed to visit an emergency dentist in Easton, PA. About 55% of the visits were considered semi-urgent, and 20% were considered non-urgent, meaning they could have been easily handled by a dental office instead. Are you having a hard time determining whether a dental issue needs emergency treatment or not? This guide explores tooth injuries as one of the common dental emergencies patients have.

Common Dental Emergencies: Tooth Injury

Simply put, dental emergencies are dental problems that need swift medical attention from an Easton, PA dentist. A lot of dental issues can go unnoticed for quite a while, especially if you don’t keep up with regular dentist appointments. Eventually, this can result in more severe dental issues like periodontitis or even tooth loss. Other dental issues make themselves known right away. You just have to find the best dentist in Easton, PA, to treat them. Here are some of the most common dental emergencies Dr. Moghadam sees at his dental office in Easton:

Tooth Injury

Although the teeth are pretty sturdy and meant to last your entire life, they are still susceptible to physical trauma. Accidents involving motor vehicles and non-motor vehicles can be quite serious, and they often result in tooth loss. Additionally, according to the American Dental Assistants Association, five million Americans lose teeth every year from sports injuries. The most common types of tooth injury are:

Types of Tooth Injuries

They are usually caused by an abrupt blow to the face, either during a sport or at an accident, and the level of severity depends on the force of the blow. The best cosmetic dentists in Easton, PA, refer to a tooth with a longitudinal crack as having craze lines. This kind of fracture only mildly affects the enamel and isn’t very high risk. However, if a crack or split starts at the crown and extends down into the tooth, contact an emergency dentist in Easton, PA.

Dental Emergency Symptoms 

These are some of the symptoms you may experience:

  • Sharp pain which dissipates afterward when you bite down
  • Pain when eating or drinking hot or cold food and beverages
  • Tooth pain that comes and goes
  • Damaged enamel, which ends up exposing the dentin, pulp, and even the surface of the tooth’s root.

Knocked-out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth can be put back in place, but the chances of it being successful reduce significantly with time, so make sure you seek emergency treatment within 30 minutes of the injury. Dr. O’Grady, an emergency dentist in Denver, CO, recommends keeping the knocked-out tooth moist at all times. This will help with saving the tooth.

Cracked or Broken Tooth

Note that cracked teeth aren’t always accompanied by pain. Additionally, the crack isn’t always visible to the naked eye, so you may have to rely on your dentist to spot it. However, if you experience any pain in your teeth, contact an emergency dentist in Easton, PA right away. Restorative treatments such as fillings and dental crowns in Easton PA may be used to fill in cracks, but if the tooth is too severely damaged, it may have to be extracted.

Fractured Teeth

Fractured roots are also pretty common. If you get hit in the jaw at just the right (or wrong) angle, the force might fracture a tooth root. A crack will then start in the root and travel upwards to the crown. Such a crack might be even more difficult to spot by yourself, and you will only realize that something’s wrong when an infection develops. 

Tooth Intrusion

Tooth intrusion is when instead of getting knocked out, the tooth is driven into the jaw. This type of injury is more common with children as their alveolar bones, which hold the tooth socket, aren’t as mature and hard as an adult’s. Without emergency dental treatment in Easton, PA, a tooth intrusion can lead to:

  • Destruction or necrosis of the tooth pulp resulting from permanent damage
  • Root resorption, or shortening of the tooth root. Up to 70% of the adults that experience tooth intrusion experience root resorption
  • Ankylosis, the fusion of the injured root to the alveolar bone. 

Treatment Dental Emergencies

If you experience any sort of physical blow to the mouth and jaw area, contact an Easton, PA dentist ASAP. You may not have suffered a serious injury, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Dr. David Moghadam explains that prevention is well worth it. So, make sure you get ahead of any potential dental issues. The best way to do that is to visit your Easton PA dentist at least once every six months for a full-mouth dental exam.

Did you suffer an injury or accident that has left your teeth feeling a little sore? Or are you in need of alternative dental services like dental implants, dental crowns, or Invisalign in Easton, PA? We at College Hill Dental Group would be happy to help. Call College Hill Dental Group today for a consultation.