The idea of billions of microbes and bacteria living in your mouth may seem like a scary thought. In reality, these microscopic entities work hard to create a symbiotic environment for both them and you. Around 300 different species of microbes live in your mouth, all working in harmony to create communities called biofilms. Depending on your eating habits and oral care, this may or may not be a good thing. Biofilms left to develop with little oral care and poor eating habits can lead to an excess of bad bacteria, throwing off the balance of your entire oral microbiome. Various health conditions can be traced back to an upset microbiome, from infected gums to Irritable Bowel Syndrome, you never know what could be affected by a dirty mouth.

If you’ve been dealing with unexplained ailments, you might have your mouth to blame. So how do you fix it? Research shows that your oral microbiome is most affected by your oral care regimen and your eating habits. Just like us, microbes need to eat, making the mouth the perfect home. This also means that whatever you eat, your microbes eat too. According to an article by the Genomic Medicine Group, when we eat foods with high amounts of added sugar and refined flour, certain microbes in the mouth convert those sugars to acid. The newly created acid then erodes tooth enamel and overwhelms the mouth with bad bacteria. Via your saliva, this bad bacteria can easily travel to your gut, enter your bloodstream, and affect other areas of the body.

To prevent the build-up of bad bacteria and ensure a healthy microbiome, doctors recommend controlling the amount of sugary/processed foods you consume and insist on a daily oral care regimen that includes brushing twice a day, flossing, and drinking plenty of water. Fluoride treatments can be used for advanced cases but it does run the risk of inhibiting good bacteria along with the bad. At the end of the day, a healthy microbiome does not depend on getting rid of all of the bad and only having healthy bacteria. The truth is that your oral microbiome needs a ton of diversity to perform how it’s supposed to. As long as you manage your sugar intake and take daily care of your oral health, your microbiome will flourish and your mouth will be better for it!

Learn why checkups help preserve your oral microbiome

High-End Dentistry at Moorehead Dentistry

When you visit the dentist, you may notice them using certain technologies. These dental technologies can include anything from x-ray machines to CEREC machines. All of the dental technologies we use in-office helps streamline the process of visiting the dentist.

Types of Dental Technologies

Digital X-rays

If you’ve ever visited a dentist before, you most likely have gotten x-rays taken. Digital x-rays are a standard practice at most dental offices. These digital x-rays save time and are safe for any patient.

Cone Beam Computed Technology (CBCT)

CBCT scanning allows our team to create images of your teeth, face and neck with just one scan. These images are high-quality and help us gather detailed information to best diagnose every patient. The CBCT machine rotates once around your head while you stand or sit. It is a quick, simple and painless process!

CEREC

CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic. CEREC creates a state-of-the-art way of reconstructing tooth restorations. For patients who are in need of crowns, CEREC makes it possible to walk out of the office with a new tooth in just one visit! This dental technology has revolutionized ceramic restorations so there is no waiting period preparing the restoration and receiving the final product.

Intraoral Camera

Intraoral cameras give our team a detailed view of your mouth in pictures and videos. This dental technology is useful for putting specific problem areas on the screen so we can see in greater detail.

What Dental Technologies are Offered at Practice Name?

At Moorehead Dentistry, we offer dental technologies to streamline our dental process as much as possible. We use the following technologies in our practice:

• Digital X-rays
• Intraoral Camera
• CBCT
• 3D Printer
• Digital Photography

If you have any questions about dental technology, or what we use at our practice, please contact us and we will happily answer any of your questions.

What are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

Impacted wisdom teeth are third molars at the back of the mouth that don’t have enough room to emerge or develop normally. Impacted wisdom teeth need to be removed as soon as possible so they do not cause problems in the future. 

Wisdom teeth are the last adult teeth to erupt in the mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth in the back of their mouth – two on the top and two on the bottom. Impacted wisdom teeth can result in pain, damage to the rest of your teeth or other dental problems. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth may cause no immediate problems. However, since they are hard to clean, they are more vulnerable to tooth decay and gum disease than the rest of your teeth. 

Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth don’t always cause problems or symptoms. If the tooth is infected, damages other teeth or causes other problems, you could experience these symptoms:

• Red or swollen gums
• Tender or bleeding gums
• Jaw pain
• Swelling around the jaw
• Bad breath 
• An unpleasant taste in your mouth 
• Difficulty opening your mouth 

When to See a Doctor

If you are experiencing any symptoms behind your last molar, you should see a dentist as soon as possible as it can be associated with an impacted wisdom tooth. 

Contact Moorehead Family Dentists

Impacted wisdom teeth can become a serious problem so it is best to see a dentist before it causes issues. Learn more about wisdom teeth removal at Moorehead Family Dentists by clicking the button below.

It can be difficult for individuals to make a decision on whether they should get clear aligners or braces. While your final decision should include a consultation with Moorehead Dentistry, this post should help lay out the pros and cons of each option for you.

Clear aligners, as their name suggests, are clear plastic devices intended to straighten your teeth over time. Aligners are custom-made using models of your current teeth and the end result you hope to achieve. You will switch aligners every couple of weeks until you have reached the final result.

Braces are traditionally made of metal and attached to the outside of your teeth. Metal wires and rubber bands are then attached to the brackets and manipulated to adjust the alignment of your teeth.

The Benefits of Clear Aligners

There are several reasons that someone would choose clear aligners, with the first being that they are nearly undetectable by observers. Not only are they more difficult to see (getting you closer to being able to show off that perfect smile), but they can be taken out temporarily when needed, allowing you to eat without distraction. Being able to remove your aligners also makes it much easier to brush and floss your teeth. Wearing clear aligners are also generally much more comfortable than braces. While adjusting the alignment of your teeth can be uncomfortable, there is generally less mouth and gum discomfort since the aligners are made of a special plastic and custom-made to fit your mouth.

The Disadvantages of Clear Aligners

While clear aligners have many benefits, they may not be the right fit for every person and every situation. While being able to remove the aligners can be a significant advantage for many people, it can also pose some issues. First, you have to remember to put them back in as soon as you are finished eating or cleaning your teeth or you will not see the best results. You also have to be careful not to lose or damage the aligners while they are out of your mouth. Clear aligners also may not be able to fix more complex alignment problems. Before deciding, you should have a discussion with your dental professional to see if clear aligners can provide the results you desire.

The Benefits of Braces

The number one advantage of braces is that they are suitable for all types of treatments. If you have multiple issues or a complex alignment situation, braces may be the solution for you. It is also possible for braces to be a quicker treatment option. The power of braces can make it quicker to close gaps with braces.

The Disadvantages of Braces

The first thing that many people think about with braces is the look. It is common to be self conscious about the way you will look with braces, while clear aligners present a much more discreet option. Another disadvantage is that braces can be more painful than clear aligners. Braces can have sharp edges that can cut your gums and lips and cause more discomfort. Since braces cannot be removed, teeth cleaning and eating can be more difficult as well. Many people do not want to have to avoid eating their favorite foods, so braces may not be the best option.

For those who can use them, clear aligners such as Invisalign systems can be the least intrusive solution for straightening teeth. It’s nice not to have to worry about the looks and inconveniences of traditional braces! If you have any questions about clear aligners or other methods of straightening your teeth, please contact our Blue Ash, Batavia, or Lebanon, OH offices. We’ll be happy to walk you through your options and help you find the best possible solution for your smile.

Cavities, often referred to as tooth decay, are tiny holes that develop in the hard surface of your teeth. They are most common in children and teenagers, but they can affect everyone including infants and toddlers. Take a closer look at what causes cavities and how you can prevent them.

Causes of Cavities

Cavities typically occur as a result of poor oral health habits but other various factors can increase the risk of getting a cavity, including:

• Dry mouth. Dry mouth occurs when there is a lack of saliva in the mouth. Saliva helps wash away food stuck on the teeth and it counters the acid produced from bacteria in the mouth, which reduces the chance for cavities.
• Foods and drinks. Certain foods aren’t as easily washed away from saliva, making them more likely to cause decay. Foods you should limit include: ice cream, honey, sugar, soda, cake, chips, cookies, and hard candy.
• Constant snacking or sipping. Drinking or eating frequently throughout the day results in increased bacteria in your mouth. This bacteria produce the acids that attack tooth enamel.
• Lack of fluoride. Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps prevent cavities and can reverse the early stage of tooth decay. Use a fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash to help reduce your chance of cavities.

Cavity Prevention

Regular dental visits and daily brushing and flossing are the best protection against cavities. If you get a cavity, it should be treated right away. But, cavities left untreated get larger and larger, affecting the deeper layers of your teeth. Deeper cavities result in higher chances of experiencing severe toothache and infection. So, when it comes to cavities, prevention is key. Below are some of our cavity preventions tips:

• Brush with fluoride toothpaste. Brush and floss twice a day, ideally after each meal.
• Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Professional teeth cleanings remove plaque that builds up overtime which isn’t removed by regular brushing and flossing. Going to the dentist twice a year is one of the best cavity prevention options.
• Dental sealants. Sealants protect the tooth enamel from harmful plaque and bacteria.

Teeth can become discolored for a variety of reasons and many people want their teeth to be bright and white, so they look into teeth whitening. When it comes to getting a brighter smile, you can whiten your teeth at home or get a professional treatment. At home whitening typically includes over-the-counter products like whitening strips, pens, or toothpaste. Professional whitening includes custom-made whitening trays you take home or an in-office appointment. What might work best for some, might not necessarily work best for another. So what’s the best teeth whitening option for you?

Both over-the counter and professional treatments use peroxide bleaching agents as the main active ingredient. The difference between each option is the amount of peroxide it contains. Over-the-counter solutions use 3 – 20 percent where professional solutions contain 14 – 43 percent. Solutions with higher amounts of peroxide should be left on for a shorter amount of time. Keeping the solution on longer will dehydrate your teeth and make them more prone to sensitivity.

Professional Whitening

Professional teeth whitening options are much safer and more effective. Additionally, it ensures that all of the proper precautions are taken. So, when it comes to protecting your gums, the whitening agent only gets on your teeth.

At-Home Whitening Products

Over-the-counter products are cheaper, generally take longer to see results, and have limitations depending on your tooth color and health prior. If used incorrectly, at-home teeth whitening kits can lead to burned gums, tooth sensitivity, or pain. It’s always best to talk with your dentist to decide the best treatment option for you.

If you choose to go for an over-the-counter solution, we recommend that you use one from the list of bleaching products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

One of the hottest topics in dentistry today is the use of dental implants. Implants have certainly revolutionized the field of tooth replacement . If you are considering dental implants for missing teeth, you need to know the facts. There are pros and cons of dental implants that are carefully weighed by your dentist before surgery can be scheduled.

Research continually shows that dental implants are the best long term solution to replace missing teeth. However, like any type of surgery, there are advantages and disadvantages.

Cons of Dental Implants

No procedure is right for everyone, including dental implants. While there are some risks associated with dental implants, they are relatively mild. The disadvantages include:

1. You have to meet a set of requirements

In order to have dental implant surgery, you first have to meet certain criteria. As the procedure involves anchoring the implant to your jaw bone, if you’ve experienced significant bone loss as a result of losing teeth, there may not be enough for the dental implant to be successful. You also have to be in good health so your jaw bone can fully recover.

2. The cost of the procedure

While dental implants are the best long term solution for tooth loss, they’re not always the most cost effective. However, dental implants are well worth the price for the comfort, confidence and natural feel they give you.

3. The procedure can be lengthy

Dental implants are not a quick fix and can take several months to complete. If you’re replacing an existing damaged tooth, this will first need to be removed. Your dentist will then need to prepare the tooth site before fitting the implant anchor. Once the anchor has been fitted, you’ll need to wait several months while it heals and the surrounding bone grows. The final stage of the procedure involves placing the artificial tooth.

Pros of Dental Implants

While there are some drawbacks to dental implants, the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages.

1. They look and feel like natural teeth

Dental implants have the appearance of real teeth. In fact, once your implant has been fitted, you’ll hardly be able to tell the difference between your replacement tooth and your real teeth. Implants also won’t feel any different from your regular teeth. Since the implants are anchored to your jaw, they’ll feel just as strong as your regular teeth too.

2. You can eat and chew with ease

Unlike dentures, implants won’t feel any different than your regular teeth when eating and chewing. Once the dental implant procedure is complete, you can eat what you want! Whether you fancy crunchy snacks, chewy foods, or hot or cold drinks, you can eat and drink without concern — just remember not to overdo the sugary treats.

3. Dental implants can last a lifetime

Implants are a long-lasting tooth replacement solution. You may need to replace the crowns every 10-15 years, but if you look after the implants, they can last a lifetime.

4. They’re easy to take care of

You should take care of your implants the same way you would take care of your regular teeth with daily brushing and flossing, regular dental checkups and a healthy diet.

5. They prevent bone loss

Dental implants are anchored into your jaw, similar to your real teeth. The screw thread of the implant acts as the root of a natural tooth, so with dental implants, your jaw bone remains strong and you won’t experience bone loss.

You can see that the advantages heavily outweigh the disadvantages. Dental implants have been proven to be a great option for people who suffer from tooth loss. We always want to make our patients look and feel great, and dental implants is a great way to do that. We’re always happy to answer any questions you may have, so contact us today!

Each year, over 60 million Americans visit the dentist. Many of these visits are attributed to cavities—small holes in teeth that let bacteria in. But sometimes, other dental issues occur that require additional treatments. Root canals are considered the best option for saving a damaged tooth when an abscess is present. Below are some root canal symptoms to watch out for.

Signs You Need A Root Canal

1. Persistent Pain

Having persistent pain is one way to tell if you need a root canal. The pain might be constant, or it might go away, but it always comes back. You may feel the pain deep in the bone of your tooth, or it might be in your jaw, face or other teeth.

Tooth pain may have other causes, such as gum disease, cavities, or an impacted tooth, but it’s always a good idea to talk with your dentist if you have tooth pain.

2. Tooth Discoloration

An infection in the pulp of your tooth can cause your tooth to become discolored. Trauma to the tooth or the breakdown of the internal tissue can damage the roots and give the tooth a grayish-black appearance. While there might be other reasons a tooth is discolored, it could be cause for a root canal so talk with your dentist!

3. Sensitivity to Heat and Cold

When your teeth start to hurt from drinking a hot cup of coffee or drinking ice water, you may need a root canal.

The pain can be just a dull feeling. It can be a sharp pain that lingers for an extended period of time, even after you’ve finished eating or drinking. If your tooth hurts when you eat or drink something hot or cold, the blood vessels and nerves in your tooth could be infected or damaged.

4. Swollen Gums

Swollen gums near a painful tooth can indicate you need root canal. Even if the swelling comes and go. If it’s tender or painful to the touch, please contact our office.

There also might be a pimple like abscess on your gum, which may ooze pus from the infection of the tooth. This can give you an unpleasant taste in your mouth and make your breath smell bad.

5. A Chipped or Cracked Tooth

If you’ve chipped or cracked your tooth in an accident, in a contact sport, or by chewing on something hard, bacteria can set in and lead to inflammation and infection. Even if your tooth didn’t crack but you injured it, the injury can still cause damage to the nerves of the tooth. The nerve can become inflamed and cause pain and sensitivity, which may require root canal treatment.

These are just a few signs that you may need a root canal. If you have any of these root canal symptoms, it’s a good idea to talk with your dentist—contact us and we can talk you through possible solutions.

Going to the dentist can be a daunting task, especially if you don’t have dental insurance or your insurance isn’t in network for a certain clinic. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get regular dental care. Many dental offices offer dental savings plans, sometimes referred to as membership plans, for those that don’t have insurance.

Signing up for a membership plan with your dental care provider can help make sure you get the dental care you need- even without insurance!

What Are Dental Savings Plans?

Dental Savings Plans are membership based discount plans for dental health care. These plans are a great alternative to dental insurance, and plan members typically save between 10-60% on the regular price of dental care and treatments. By joining, you gain access to member only discounts that participating dental care providers have agreed upon. You pay the discounted rate directly to the dentist- no insurance needed!

What Do These Plans Cover?

This all depends on the practice, but typically they cover the following:

• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Restorative Dental Care
• Specialist Dental Care
• Preventative Dental Care

Talk with your dental office to see what they provide with their own membership plan.

Choosing a Plan That’s Right For You

One big plus of having a dental savings plan is that you have options. Simply by searching for the following, you can choose a plan that’s right for you:

• By savings: Choose the plan that has the best overall savings
• By dentist: Choose the plan that your dentist accepts
• By procedure: Choose the plan you want based on your dental care needs.

Here at Moorehead Dentistry, we want to make sure everyone has the option to get dental care. That’s why our dental savings plan can help you have peace of mind when you come to the dentist. To find out more about our membership plan, click here or call one of our three offices. There’s no reason why you shouldn’t get the dental care you deserve.

Damage to teeth and gums can’t be ignored. It’s always important to act quickly if something is wrong, but some dental issues are more pressing than others. How can you know the difference between a dental problem that needs to be solved soon and a problem that needs to be solved now?

We never want our patients to put off a dental procedure when it could lead to lasting harm, so we’ve compiled a list of important warning signs that mean you should get your teeth checked out as soon as possible. After all, you’ve only got so many teeth — it’s best to keep them all in good shape.

1. Broken or missing teeth

It goes without saying that obvious physical damage to your teeth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies you can experience. If your tooth has been damaged, rinse your mouth with warm water immediately and call us as soon as possible. If your tooth has come out, gently try to put it back into the socket (without touching the root!) or keep it in your mouth to protect it until we can see you.

2. Dental abscesses

A dental abscess is a small collection of pus inside of a tooth or gums that is caused by a bacterial infection. If your symptoms include shiny red swollen gums, a fever, or pain that spreads to your jaw or neck, you may have an abscess, even if you don’t see it. Try to see us as soon as possible, but, in the meantime, you can reduce the pain of the abscess by avoiding cold drinks. Use a soft toothbrush to very gently clean the area until we can get you into the office.

3. Lost filling or crown

A crown or filling can become loose or even fall out for a variety of reasons. If you lose a crown or filling, it’s important to try to save it — we may be able to reuse it. Rinse the area with warm salt water and continue to brush the damaged tooth (gently!) until we can see you.

4. Significant pain or swelling in the teeth, gums or jaw

Constant pain or swelling in your mouth is never normal! This symptom may seem vague or common, but it could be a sign of major damage or an infection that could have nasty results if left untreated. Don’t tough it out. Call us and we will decide together whether you need to come in for an appointment.

Ignoring any of these four dental problems could result in the permanent loss of teeth. Infections can even spread to other parts of your body and cause serious general medical issues, so it’s extremely important to get your teeth examined if you experience any dental emergency on this list!

We want your tooth pain or mouth pain to stop.

First and foremost, if you are in pain, we want to help you get some relief. Then we can address any underlying causes to solve the problem using dental best practices. If you believe you’re experiencing a dental emergency, give one of our three convenient locations a call as soon as possible. We’ll get you an appointment in the near future, so you can go back to your life and leave tooth pain behind.