5 Benefits of Dental Implants

The Top 5 Benefits of Dental Implants

The Top 5 Benefits of Dental Implants

Top 5 Benefits of Dental Implants in Easton PA

The dental implant is a remarkable and revolutionary technology that is transforming the oral health of thousands of people worldwide. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. If you live in Easton PA, you may be considering getting a dental implant to replace your missing teeth. Here are five benefits of getting a dental implant from an experienced Easton PA Dentist like Dr. Dave. 

The Top 5 Benefits of Dental Implants

Improve The Appearance Of Your Smile

Patients who get dental implants experience improved facial aesthetics due to increased bone volume and improved symmetry between their top and bottom jaws. Dental implants can also help improve the overall look and feel of your smile by providing support for dentures and bridges, which can fill in gaps caused by missing teeth.

Improved Speech

Missing teeth can affect the clarity of your speech, as they can impact your ability to pronounce certain words properly. With a dental implant, you can speak with confidence again as it will provide support for dentures or bridges so you can pronounce words correctly without any difficulty.

Increased Comfort When Eating

Unlike dentures or dental bridges, dental implants are designed to be comfortable and secure in the mouth, as they are securely anchored directly into the jawbone. This means that there is no need for messy adhesives or worrying about them slipping out when speaking or eating food. This also helps maintain natural chewing motions so you can eat all kinds of foods without worrying about them sticking to your dentures or bridge work.

Longevity And Durability

Dental implants are designed to last many years if taken care of properly with regular brushing and flossing habits, along with regular checkups from your Easton PA dentist every 6 months or so for routine cleanings and exams. Additionally, since they are made from titanium metal alloy material, they won’t decay like natural teeth do over time and aren’t subject to cavities like other restorative treatments such as bridgework or dentures may be prone to over time if not properly taken care of as well maintained regularly by an experienced Easton PA dentist.

Improved Self-Esteem

For many patients who have lost one or more teeth due to age, disease, or injury, having a full set of healthy-looking teeth again can be quite empowering! Being able to laugh freely without worrying about how others may perceive them is something many take for granted until it’s gone! With a beautiful set of natural-looking dental implants restored by an experienced Easton PA dentist, patients often report feeling more confident in social settings once again!

The decision whether or not to get a dental implant should be discussed thoroughly with an experienced Easton PA dentist prior to making any decisions so that all factors are taken into consideration before moving forward with treatment plans such as this one! That said however there truly are numerous benefits associated with getting a dental implant including improved appearance & speech clarity; increased comfort & durability; & improved self-esteem just to name just a few! So if you are considering replacing missing teeth due to age, disease, injury, etc., then consider talking with our team at College Hill Dental Group today about how getting a dental implant could benefit you! Who knows? You may just be surprised at how much better life could look after getting this amazing prosthetic device placed securely into place!

How to Stop Receding Gums

receding gums - Easton PA

How to Get Rid of Receding Gums

Receding gums can ruin your perfect smile. How do you know your gums are receding? Well, if you have lengthy teeth, but they weren’t always that way, you may have receding gums. Gum recession is a slow and steady process. Fortunately, receding gums can be avoided with good oral health problems. But what do you do when you already have receding gums? Below, your dentist in Easton, PA, explains how to stop receding gums from progressing. 

Not All Gum Recessions Can Be Avoided

Gum recession is caused by a variety of circumstances. Unfortunately, some of them contain genetics. Some people are more susceptible than others. The good news is that preventative dentistry can assist in avoiding gum recession. Additionally, Dr. Dave Moghadam recommends searching for the “best dentist near me” and visiting them a minimum of twice a year for dental cleaning and exam. So, they will be able to assist in preventing this dental problem from happening.

Bruxism 

Chronic teeth-grinding, or bruxism, can greatly impact your oral health, putting you at risk for gum recession. How? Well, this habit can put too much pressure on your gums, causing them to recede. Bruxism is a difficult habit to stop, especially if you do it while sleeping, but you can reduce the damage to your jaw, gums, and teeth by wearing a mouthguard. Ask Dr. Dave about our oral appliances. 

How to Get Rid of Receding Gums

You may be confused by how you developed gum recession when you take such good care of your teeth. Well, you can actually brush your teeth too hard. With a hard-bristled brush and too much force, you could damage your gums. Additionally, our friend Dr. Ryan Helgerson, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, says that soft bristles are perfect for removing plaque and massaging the gums without harming them. The same holds true with flossing; you should floss once a day, but be gentle with your gums.

Tartar Accumulation and Gum Disease

When plaque is not eliminated by brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist. This means that the longer you go between routine dental cleanings, the more tartar accumulates around your gum lines, putting you at risk for gum disease. The early stages of gum disease, commonly known as gingivitis, are likely if your gums are sensitive, swollen, and bleed easily. You can fight it with good brushing and flossing routines, but it’s also a good idea to bring it to our attention. 

Contact College Hill Dental Group 

So, if you are concerned about the structure and health of your gums, please contact our dental office right away. Our team at College Hill Dental Group can assist you in restoring your oral health. Contact us today!

Tips to Care for Your Dental Crowns

tips to care for dental crowns - Easton PA

Easy Tips to Care for Your Dental Crowns

Dental crowns strengthen your natural teeth and protect them from additional damage. Additionally, crowns can restore your smile to be as good as new. Dental crowns are an extremely popular restorative dentistry treatment. They can actually last a long time with good care. In this article, Dr. Dave Moghadam, the best dentist in Easton, PA, shares tips to care for your dental crowns. 

Maintain Healthy Habits

Most dental crowns have a lifespan of five to fifteen years. The longevity of your dental crown is determined by your oral health routine and habits. Keep in mind that permanent crowns, on the other hand, require less upkeep than temporary crowns. Dr. Dave recommends brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. If you want to maintain good oral health, you must take care of your teeth!

Make Use of a Night Guards

If you’re a teeth grinder, you may want to get a nightguard to protect your teeth. This will protect your upper and lower teeth from coming into contact at night. Nightguards will be extremely helpful in keeping your dental crown in great shape.

Eliminate Bad Habits

Bad habits, such as chewing your nails or grinding your teeth, might cause the crown to loosen. Additionally, smoking can also create problems for your crown. Our friend, Dr. Beth Herko, the best dentist in New Providence, NJ, points out that your dental crown is more likely to change colors if you smoke. So, if you want your crown to stay looking natural, avoid all tobacco products.

Dealing with a Broken Crown

Chipping can be an issue with low-quality crowns. It is possible for porcelain-based dental crowns to deteriorate. To see if your dental crown is cracked, your dentist may use the best intraoral camera to get a better look at your tooth. Your dentist in Easton, PA, may be able to restore the crown in some circumstances. If you need same-day crowns in Easton, contact College Hill Dental Group!

Maintaining Contact with Your Easton Dentist

It is critical that you do not miss your monthly dental appointments, especially if you have crowns or implants. A dentist can detect and correct crown problems before they worsen and cost you additional money.

If you experience pain during chewing or biting, you should make an emergency dentistry appointment. The dentist will examine the area to determine the source of the problem. Most of the time, the pain is caused by a crown that is excessively high.

If this is the case, your Easton PA dentist will modify the crown’s shape and place. Sometimes glue washes out from behind the crown, allowing bacteria to enter and cause decay. The crown may also fall out if the dentist does not properly repair it. If this occurs, place the crown in a plastic bag and contact your dentist right away. You’ll need to get a new crown placed.

Now that you’ve learned the tips to care for your dental crowns, you can take the right steps to great oral health. If you are in need of dental services in Easton, PA, please contact College Hil Dental Group today!

How to Prepare for Oral Surgery

how to prepare for oral surgery - dentist Easton PA

Tips for How to Prepare for Oral Surgery 

Oral surgery is any surgical treatment performed in or around your mouth and jaw, typically by a dental specialist who has been trained to undertake specific types of oral surgeries. Undergoing oral surgery can be a little scary at first. Don’t worry. You’re in great hands when you visit College Hill Dental Group! In this article, Dr. Dave Moghadam, the dentist Easton, PA, shares how to prepare for oral surgery. 

What The Types Of Oral Surgery?

Oral surgery encompasses a wide range of operations, including tooth extraction and root canal therapy. Some oral operations require jaw relocation. Additionally, oral surgery can be performed by a variety of dental experts, including endodontists, periodontists, and prosthodontists. It’s important that you see the best oral surgeon in your area. Do your research and meet with your doctor before agreeing to any treatment. You can always visit College Hill Dental Group in Easton, PA, if you need any second opinions.

Types of Oral Surgery

The following are some of the most common oral surgeries:

  • Tooth Extraction 
  • Impacted wisdom teeth
  • Gum Grafting
  • Dental Implants
  • Maxillofacial surgery 
  • Root canal therapy

When would I require oral surgery?

Oral surgery may be required for tooth and jaw procedures that are beyond the scope of a general dentist’s expertise. So, if you have impacted wisdom teeth, you may need to see an oral surgeon in Easton, PA, to have them removed. For those who have gum disease and need a gum graft, you will be directed to a periodontist who specializes in these types of oral operations.

So, if you require oral surgery, your Dr. Dave Moghadam will discuss the treatment process with you and get your oral surgery date booked. At College Hill Dental Group, we want to make sure you’re getting the best treatment plan possible. 

How to Prepare for Oral Surgery Treatment

Depending on the type of surgery, you’ll be instructed to prepare just like you would for any other serious medical operation. It’s important to note that it’s crucial for all patients to always follow their dentist’s instructions. Failure to do so may result in postponing the surgery. Below are a few tips on how to prepare for oral surgery:

  • Begin by ensuring that the place you’re returning to is clean and tidy, so you can be comfortable for at least a couple of days, if necessary.
  • Set up your bed so that you can sit at an angle if necessary.
  • Follow the pre-surgery instructions provided by your oral surgeon. Typically, you will be instructed not to eat or drink anything for 8-10 hours before your surgery. Our friend, Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist Grand Junction, highly recommends asking for a list of recommended foods before surgery. That way, you are fully prepared before your treatment.
  • Additionally, if required, make arrangements for transportation back home. Consult your oral surgeon about the type of sedation you’ll be receiving. Some sleep dentistry can impair your ability to drive. You may be given a topical or local anesthetic depending on the type of oral surgery you are undergoing. Additionally, you’ll need someone to drive you home if you’re receiving an IV sedation. It never hurts to contact our office for any questions or concerns you may have about your procedure.

Important Parts of Oral Surgery Recovery?

Your recovery from oral surgery is a crucial part of treatment. Here are a few things to keep in mind for your post-oral surgery recovery. For more tips, read our blog Oral Surgery Recovery Tips.

  • Please do not smoke or drink alcohol after your oral surgery. This can cause serious problems. 
  • It is completely normal to experience swelling post-surgery. 
  • Use an ice pack or OTC medication to help with swelling. 
  • Avoid brushing your teeth as instructed.
  •  Rinse your mouth with salt water every other hour.  
  • Be kind to yourself. Depending on the type of oral surgery, recuperation time might range from 48 hours to one month. 
  • Make a follow-up appointment with your Easton PA dentist if necessary.

We hope this article will help you better prepare for your oral surgery. Furthermore, if you have any questions or concerns at all, please contact our dental office in Easton, PA. Our staff is more than happy to help.

Broken Tooth Repair Options

broken tooth repair options - easton pa

Broken Tooth Repair Options

Teeth fractures and breaks account for a good amount of emergency dentistry. The treatment you need for broken tooth repair depends on the severity of the break and its location. Most dental cracks can be repaired quickly, especially if your dentist offers same-day dentistry. In this blog, Dr. Moghadam discusses broken tooth repair options. Note that if your tooth is split in half, contact us immediately. Repairing a broken tooth should not be put off. 

Why Repairing a Broken Tooth is Important

The risk of infection in the pulp of the tooth, as well as the gums and bone under the damaged tooth, increases significantly with each day you delay seeing a dentist. Continue to brush your teeth on a regular basis before you can schedule the appointment, but be extra careful not to exacerbate the issue.

What Causes Cracking or Breaking of Teeth?

One of the most common causes of broken teeth happens during eating. Chewing hard foods can damage your teeth, especially if you have poor oral health. Those who grind their teeth or clench their jaw may be at a higher risk for a broken tooth. If you wake up with jaw pain or a headache, be mindful of potential dental problems. Teeth can also break or crack on impact, whether that’s from a car accident or sports injury. Any time you experience dangerous contact with your teeth, you should see a professional for a full-mouth evaluation. Otherwise, it could lead to other problems later on. 

Broken Tooth Repair Options

When you experience a broken tooth, your dentist in Easton, PA, will recommend some of the following broken tooth repair options. As mentioned above, the treatment will depend on the severity of the break and the foundation of the tooth. Contact College Hill Dental Group for a consultation today!

Dental Bonding

Bonding is an excellent and simple solution if you have a subtle crack in your tooth. We can patch the crack with composite resin, which is the same material used to make white fillings. Composite resin is similar to putty and is color-matched to your teeth. This is the best option for patients who have craze lines that run down the enamel of their teeth.

Dental Veneers

Veneers are classified into three types: porcelain, composite, and lumineers. Veneers are common because they can be customized to match the shape and color of your teeth. Additionally, veneers can be reshaped to give you even better-looking teeth. They are an excellent choice for repairing cracked or broken teeth and can last for decades. Although veneers are an excellent option, our friend Dr. Leeson, a dentist in St. Pete, FL, says veneers aren’t suitable for patients who grind their teeth.

Same-Day Dental Crowns

A dental crown goes over your tooth. It’s designed to strengthen it and prevent any further damage. Dental crowns are one of the most common broken tooth repair options available. This is the safest choice for patients who have a broken cusp. Although these types of breaks aren’t painful, ignoring them increases the chances of losing the entire tooth. At our dental office in Easton, PA, we offer same-day dental crowns for our patients. So, you don’t have to wait weeks on end for your permanent crown to get back from the lab! Everything is made in-house. 

Root Canal Therapy

If you have a badly cracked tooth, it is likely that the damage has spread to the pulp, which is located deep inside the tooth. The most common symptom of this condition is pain, especially when eating something cold, such as ice cream, or something hot, such as soup. Root canal therapy is a popular dental treatment.

A root canal procedure involves extracting the damaged nerve so that the infection does not spread further. It is normal for teeth to be capped after a root canal to provide extra strength to the tooth.

Dental Implants

If a crack is not handled, it can spread below the gum line. This suggests that the tooth is no longer functional and must be removed with a tooth extraction. A dental implant is a common alternative for replacing a missing tooth after an extraction. This broken tooth repair option is a relatively simple and painless procedure. Dental implant placement includes the prosthetic tooth placed in the jaw bone. As a result, patients are A dental crown is usually placed on top of the implant. Dental implants aren’t for everyone. Ask your dentist in Easton, PA, if dental implants are an option for your smile.

If you suspect your tooth is cracked or damaged, please contact our dental office right away to prevent more harm and infection. Our College Hill Dental Group team is happy to help with your dental needs. Give us a call today!

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!

About Root Canal Therapy

about root canal therapy - dentist easton pa

Root Canal Therapy

The truth is, teeth can last a lifetime if they’re well taken care of. When patients have severely decayed or infected teeth, it’s critical that they search for a dental professional. Tooth extractions used to be the go-to treatment, but now root canal therapy is the better option. In honor of Root Canal Awareness Week, our dentists in Easton, PA, talk about root canal therapy and how you may benefit from this restorative treatment. 

What Exactly Is Root Canal Therapy? 

Every year, millions of root canals are performed in the United States. As your favorite dentist, we do everything we can to preserve your natural teeth. Unnecessary extractions and tooth replacements can be costly. So, what exactly is root canal therapy? The interior of a tooth includes a soft substance known as the pulp, as well as the nerve and other tissue. 

A tooth infection can occur if the exterior of the tooth is weakened to the point that the pulp is exposed. When you visit our dental office in Easton, PA, Dr. Seth or Dr. Dave will clean out the infection to preserve the structure of the tooth. Since the nerve’s sole purpose is to provide sensory experience, removing it would have little effect on the normal operation of your tooth. To avoid further damage, the tooth will be covered with a dental filling or a same-day dental crown. Our friends Dr. Cody Boals and Dr. Alexa Johnson, Colorado Springs dentists, point out that tooth infections are preventable. Following a good oral health regimen and overall good lifestyle is key. 

Symptoms of an Infected Tooth

  • Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
  • Pain when biting down
  • Swelling
  • Throbbing
  • Pain

Benefits

  • Restored functionality 
  • Natural appearance 
  • Prevents further damage

Root Canal Therapy Stages

  1. Many patients are naturally nervous about undergoing root canal therapy. To make your treatment more comfortable, the tooth will be numbed throughout your visit. 
  2. During treatment, the tooth’s canal is cleaned and formed in preparation for filling. 
  3. To seal the canals, they are filled with a rubber-like substance.
  4. To strengthen the tooth, it is capped off with a dental crown. At College Hill Dental Group, we offer same-day crowns. So, you won’t have to worry about coming back for dental crown placement.

Contact Dentist in Easton, PA

Root canals are often needed for emergency dental treatment. Dr. Dave Moghadam and Dr. Seth Walbridge will do everything they can to get you out of pain and smiling again. So, contact College Hill Dental Group to schedule an appointment today! 

Must-Knows About Gum Disease

must-knows about gum disease - Easton PA dentist

Must-Knows About Gum Disease

Gum disease is a very common dental problem in the United States. This infection affects the tooth and its gums. You may also know gum disease as gingivitis or periodontitis. In this article, Dr. Dave, a dentist in Easton, PA, discusses some must-knows about gum disease. 

Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis

So, is there a difference between gingivitis and periodontitis? For starters, gingivitis develops prior to periodontitis. It normally refers to gum inflammation, whereas periodontitis is gum disease with tissue, bone, or both death.

Gingivitis occurs when bacterial plaque accumulates on the tooth’s surface, causing the gums to turn red and inflamed. One of the first signs of gingivitis is bleeding after brushing. The gums are inflamed and irritated, but the teeth are not yet loose. There is no permanent damage to the bone or underlying tissue at this stage of gum disease. Gingivitis is likely to progress to periodontitis if left untreated, says Dr. Dave Moghadam. 

Periodontitis occurs when the gums and bone pull away from the teeth, resulting in large pockets. Debris accumulates in the spaces between the gums and the teeth, infecting the area.

When plaque extends below the gum line into the pockets, the immune system kills bacteria. Because of the toxins released by the bacteria, the bone and connective tissue that hold the tooth begin to deteriorate. Teeth become brittle and can fall out. 

Symptoms

  • The teeth become longer as the gums recede. Gaps between the teeth are also possible.
  • gums that are inflamed or swollen, as well as recurring swelling in the gums bright red, often purple gums
  • pain when the gums are touched receding gums that cause the teeth to appear longer extra spaces appearing between the teeth
  • pus in the space between the teeth and the gums
  • Bleeding while brushing or flossing teeth, a metallic taste in the mouth, halitosis (bad breath), loose teeth
  • Since the teeth do not match as well as they used to, the individual can complain that their “bite” feels different.

Causes of Gum Disease

Gum disease is a direct result of poor oral hygiene. The built-up dental plaque deteriorates the enamel on your teeth. Once it hardens, it turns into tartar, also known as calculus. Our friend, Dr. Ryan Helgerson, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, agrees that tartar is more difficult to remove than plaque and can only be removed by your dentist. Plaque can damage teeth and surrounding tissue gradually and slowly. If gingivitis is not treated, pockets between the teeth and gums may form. Bacteria accumulate in these pockets, causing serious dental problems

Bacterial toxins, in conjunction with the immune system’s response to infection, begin damaging the bone and connective tissue that keep teeth in place. The teeth will eventually become loose and can fall out. A fully interactive 3D model of periodontal disease is shown below. To learn more about periodontal disease, use your mouse pad or touchscreen to explore the model.

Risk Factors of Gum Disease

Gum disease is more likely to occur in people experiencing the following:

  • Smokers. Daily smokers are more likely to develop gum disease. Smoking also reduces the effectiveness of therapy. Smokers account for 90% of cases that do not respond to treatment.
  • Hormones. Hormonal changes arise during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. These modifications increase the likelihood of contracting gum disease.
  • Diabetics. People with diabetes have a higher prevalence of gum disease than people of the same age.
  • Aids. Gum disease is more common in AIDS patients.
  • Cancer. and certain cancer therapies may increase the likelihood of gum disease.
  • Medication. Antihypertensive drugs or vasodilating agents (which relax and dilate blood vessels), immunotherapy drugs, and medicines that suppress saliva may also raise the risk of gum disease.
  • Genetics. Certain individuals are predisposed to gum disease due to inherited characteristics.

Diagnosing Gum Disease

Now that we’ve discussed the must-knows about gum disease, you have a better understanding of the severity of the problem. If you’re experiencing any of the above signs, contact your emergency dentist in Easton, PA. Gum disease and periodontitis can be detrimental to your oral health. Dr. Dave will be happy to examine your smile. Call College Hill Dental Group today to schedule a full-mouth evaluation.

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. 

How to Treat a Toothache

how to treat a toothache - emergency dentist near me

How to Treat a Toothache

February 9th, 2021, is National Toothache Day! Most of us have experienced a toothache at one point in our lives. If you have, you know how painful toothaches can be and that they don’t just go away on their own. In the following article, emergency dentists in Easton, PA, share different ways on how to treat a toothache.

What to Do If You Get a Toothache 

Any toothaches that come from pressure outside (but not inside) your tooth will get easier without going to the dentist. Pressure caused by redness in the gums will be healed within just a few days. Try not to chew about the infected area at this period. Eat soft foods, avoid hot or cold foods while your teeth are still sensitive.

How to Relieve Your Toothache at Home

Below are a few ways Dr. Moghahdam suggests temporarily relieving your toothache:

  • Rinsing with warm salt water is an old trick. Saltwater can release debris between your teeth, act as a disinfectant, and reduce inflammation. Stir a 1⁄2 teaspoon of salt in a bottle of warm water and clean your mouth thoroughly.
  • Rinse in peroxide and hydrogen. Hydrogen peroxide (3 percent solution) helps minimize inflammation and discomfort. Dilute the hydrogen peroxide with equivalent sections of the water and rinse thoroughly. Don’t swallow it.
  • Use a cold compress. Keep a cool compress of ice covered in a towel to the sore region for 20 minutes for swelling and discomfort. Repeat a couple of hours.
  • Use Anti-Inflammatory Medication. Over-the-counter pain medications can relieve pain and inflammation. These include aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®). Do not give an infant under 16 years of age aspirin; instead, use Tylenol.
  • Try clove oil, say our friends at Park Boulevard Family Dentistry, a dental office in Pinellas, FL. A natural antiseptic that induces discomfort and decreases inflammation. Put a small amount of clove oil on a cotton ball and add to a sore area. Or apply a drop of clove oil to a bottle of water and clean your mouth thoroughly.
  • Extract of vanilla. Vanilla extract alcohol causes discomfort temporarily, and the antioxidants allow the area to recover. Using your fingers or cotton ball, and add the extract to your teeth and gum a few times a day.
  • Tee with peppermint. The relaxing effects of peppermint can be added to a sore region with a refrigerated peppermint tea bag. Keep this wet tea bag between your teeth and your gum.
  • It’s garlic. Prepare a paste of crushed garlic clove and add to the infected area. Garlic can destroy bacteria (containing antimicrobial allicin) and relieve pain.

Visiting Your Easton PA Dentist for a Toothache

Temporary, home-made pain relief will not be enough if the toothache continues. Contact our dental office in Easton, PA, if your toothache gets worse. 

Our dental staff will happily see you for an emergency dental visit. We will likely ask you the following questions:

  • Where’s the pain located?
  • When did it begin?
  • How bad is that?
  • What makes the suffering unbearable, and what gives you relief?

During your full mouth evaluation, we will check your lips, eyes, gums, jaws, tongue, lungs, sinuses, head, nose, and neck. We will also take dental X-rays to your teeth to better demonstrate the source of your toothache.

How Will the Dentist Treat My Toothache? 

Your treatment for your toothache will depend on the dental problem. After further assessment of your mouth, we will create a custom treatment plan and go over it with you:

  •  If you have a hole in your tooth, we will patch the cavity, perform a root canal, or, if necessary, extract your tooth. 
  • A root canal may be required if the source of the toothache is an inflammation of the nerve of the tooth. Bacteria, which have worked their way into the inner space of the root of the tooth, induce inflammation. This is the best solution if you have severe decay but are still able to save your tooth.
  • An antibiotic may be recommended if there is fever or swelling in the jaw. 

No matter what the cause of your toothache is, we’re more than happy to help treat it. Our modern dental office is well equipped to handle just about any dental emergency. Contact College Hill Dental Group today if you’re experiencing a dental emergency or would just like to schedule an appointment.