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Monthly Archives

December 2012

Dec 27

Could my toothache cause my cheek to swell?

By Dental Crowns, Toothache

A toothache can cause swelling in your cheek if there is an abscess. When you have a tooth infection, a collection of infected material, or pus, can form in the middle of the tooth. This collection of infected material is called an abscess.

The abscess can spread into your jawbone and cheek. The infection will continue to spread until it’s treated, so recommend that you promptly make an appointment with your dentist. The tooth will likely require a root canal treatment.

If your tooth is weak or cracked, a crown may be used to protect it. But there is no need for concern about the crown. Porcelain crowns are made to have the characteristics and color of your natural teeth. You will be given a prescription of antibiotics to prevent further spread of the infection.

This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Dec 27

Replacing a failed dental implant

By Dental Implant Mistakes, Dental Implants

I had 3 dental implants placed and 1 of them failed. It needs to be removed. Replacing it will require bone grafting. I am not prepared to spend the kind of money that an implant and bone grafting would take. Any suggestions for an alternative? – William T.

William – A fixed dental bridge can replace the tooth (a fixed bridge cannot be taken out of your mouth). It would not require an implant or bone grafting. If you still have a concern with jawbone shrinkage in the location of the missing tooth, you can consider a soft tissue graft or bone grafting.

If you’re interested, review Dr. LaVacca’s has a web page specific to reasons that dental implants fail.

This post is sponsored by Naperville implant dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Dec 25

Over 60 and getting new cavities

By Health Issues and Teeth

If you’re over 60 and getting cavities, even though you haven’t had them for years, it could be that medication is a contributing factor.

There are more than 500 medications that have dry mouth as a side effect. Medication for anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, allergies, asthma, high cholesterol, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease—all have dry mouth as a side effect.

Normally, the properties in saliva neutralize acid and fight bacteria in your mouth. When your mouth is dry, it’s more difficult to fight bacteria. Bacteria can lead to tooth decay, loose teeth, or completely losing some of your teeth.

What can you do about it? Sip on water to keep moisture in your mouth, chewing gum increases saliva production. If you chew gum with sugar in it, be sure to chew it after the sugary taste is gone.

Let your dentist know if you are taking medication that promotes dry mouth. He or she will closely monitor your teeth and gums. Fluoride rinse may be recommended or fluoride toothpaste may be prescribed.

Avoid gum disease and treatment for tooth replacement by taking the necessary precautions.

This post is sponsored by Naperville implant dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Dec 25

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

By Pediatric Dentist

Baby bottle tooth decay is the term used when infants and toddlers get decay in their teeth—even though the teeth are temporary.

Why should you be concerned about decay in a child’s temporary teeth? Teeth affect the ability to chew, speak properly, and to have a healthy-looking smile. Healthy first teeth affect healthy adult teeth.

If babies or toddlers are put in bed with a bottle, or if they drink lots of sugary drinks, tooth decay is promoted. Inadequate fluoride also promotes tooth decay.

What can you do to keep your baby’s teeth and gums healthy? Avoid filling his or her bottle with sugar water, sugary juices or soda. Before teeth erupt, after feeding, wipe his or her gums with a clean, soft damp cloth. Avoid giving him or her sugary snacks.

When teeth erupt, brush them with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. As your child’s dexterity improves, teach him or her to practice good oral hygiene. Teach your child to brush and floss his or her teeth.

When teeth appear, have a dentist examine your child’s teeth and gums. Don’t take temporary tooth for granted.

 

This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

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