Root Canals
Treatment of root canal disease
A root canal procedure limits the infection and keeps it from destroying the tooth. During the root canal treatment procedure, the dentist removes the inflamed or infected tissue, carefully cleans, disinfects, and shapes the root canal space inside the tooth, and then fills and seals this space.
It may take one or more appointments to complete the procedure. A protective restoration should be placed after root canal treatment has been completed in order to restore the tooth to function and help prevent tooth fracture.
At Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates we think of a root canal as washing the invasive bacteria out of the root, filling it with a biocompatible material that soothes the area, then sealing it back up again. Top it off with a solid filling or a crown, and you're as good as new.
That means you get to keep your tooth. And that's a good thing.
Root canal therapy
Many people flinch when their dentists tell them they need root canal therapy. While dentists are sympathetic to fears of pain, at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates we also want you to know that root canal therapy has three purposes:
Stop the toothache
Prevent bacteria and pain from spreading into the jaw Maintain the original tooth instead of replacing it with a denture or bridge The root canal is actually a channel that runs from the root of the tooth, which connects to the bone, up to the top surface of the tooth. The canal contains blood vessels, nerves, and the complex cells that make up the living tissue inside the tooth. This lifeline inside the tooth is called the pulp.
When a tooth is decayed or cracked, bacteria can get to the pulp. The acid from the bacteria irritates the pulp and it becomes inflamed; it's the same process you watch when other parts of your body become infected. When the pulp tissue becomes inflamed, it's harder for blood to flow to the tissue, and the resulting pressure creates pain inside your tooth.
Endodontics
Symptoms of endodontic disease
Endodontic disease can manifest itself with a wide variety and combination of symptoms. Common symptoms of endodontic disease include:
Stop the toothache
Lingering sensitivity to cold liquids
Lingering sensitivity to hot liquids
Sensitivity to sweets
Pain to biting pressure
Pain that is referred from a tooth to another area, such as the neck, temple, or the ear
Spontaneous toothache, such as that experienced while reading a magazine, watching television, etc.
Constant or intermittent pain
Severe pain
Throbbing pain
Pain that may occur in response to atmospheric pressure changes, such as when flying or scuba diving
Pain that may occur in response to postural changes, such as when going from a standing to a reclining position
Swelling
If you have any of these symptoms, it would be wise to visit us at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates because you might have root canal disease or another dental problem. Some of these symptoms may also be attributable to decay, defective fillings, periodontal diseases, cracked teeth, or other tooth or bite-related problems. On other occasions, the symptoms may even be caused by disorders that are not related to the teeth.
Infection Control
Infections in joint replacements can be instigated by severe gum disease
Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates strongly recommends a thorough dental examination for presence of tooth and gum infection is recommended prior to joint replacement.
Periodontal disease is a commonly occurring oral infection of the adult population (80% of adults are affected) destroying the bony support of the teeth. This infection slowly progresses over the lifetime of the patient and is often manifested in the advanced stage in the senior population.
Because of the lack of any discomfort to the patient until total loss of bony support to the teeth, many adults are unaware that they have this infection until they visit Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates. However, the bacteria from this bone destroying disease, especially in the more advanced cases, has been attributed to possible infection of joint replacements.
Candidates for joint replacements who have not been seen by Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates in over a year should consider a thorough dental evaluation of their teeth and gums before surgery.
Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment of gum infections and tooth abscesses may take from two weeks to two months before the patient reaches adequate health before surgery.
Patient concerns about AIDS
A recent survey of dental patients nation wide showed that patient protection was #1 on their list of concerns about dental care. Some patients have even quit going to the dentist because of their fears.
Fortunately, trips to Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates's office have never been safer. The case in Florida where the patient was apparently infected with the AIDS virus by her dentist is the only such case out of tens of millions of dental treatments performed since the introduction of the virus. The Center for Disease Control still does not know the method of infection.
However, even one case is too many. At Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates we have responded by adopting "universal (or standard) precautions". These involve sterilizing all instruments in steam autoclaves to kill any bacteria. Disposable items are used whenever possible.
The chance of contracting an infection in the dental chair is extremely remote, but the chance of losing one's teeth because of lack of proper dental care is extremely likely.
Prosthodontics
A prosthodontist is a specialist in the restoration and replacement of broken and missing teeth. Their training lasts an additional three years after four years of dental school. During that time, they are taught in greater detail both removable and fixed prosthodontics.
Removable prosthodontics includes replacing missing teeth with appliances that the patients themselves can take in and out of their mouth, such as dentures and partial dentures.
Fixed prosthodontics includes replacing missing and/or broken teeth with restorations that the patient cannot take in and out, such as veneers, crowns, bridges, and implants.
For more information about how we at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates can help you with prosthodontic problems,
call us at 916-691-6020, we will be happy to talk with you.
Dentures
"What are dentures?"
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth.
"What are partial dentures?"
Partial dentures are dentures that replace only a few missing teeth.
"What are complete dentures?"
Complete dentures are dentures that replace a complete set of missing teeth.
"What is the difference between conventional dentures and immediate dentures?"
Conventional dentures are dentures that are made and placed after the remaining teeth are removed and the tissues have healed. Immediate dentures are dentures that are placed immediately after the removal of the remaining teeth.
"What is an over-denture?"
An over-denture is a denture that fits over a small number of remaining natural teeth or implants.
For more information about how we at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates can help you with denture problems, call us at 916-691-6020, we will be happy to talk with you.
"What do dentures feel like?"
For a few weeks, new dentures will feel awkward until you become accustomed to them. They might feel loose until the cheek and tongue muscles learn to hold them in position. It is not unusual to feel minor irritation or soreness. The patient needs to see his or her dentist for regular fit adjustments to relieve any sore areas.
"Do dentures need to be replaced?"
At Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates we find that dentures will need to be relined, remade, or rebased due to normal wear over a period of time and normal shrinkage of your gums and bones.
"Are you able to eat with dentures?"
Eating with dentures will take a little practice. You should start with soft foods that are cut into small pieces. As you become used to chewing, you can return to your normal diet.
"Are there foods you should avoid if you wear dentures?"
There are only a few eating restrictions for denture wearers. Avoid biting down directly on crunchy or hard foods, like whole apples, hard pretzels, crusty bread, or large sandwiches. They can break because of the angle where the denture comes into contact with the hard surface.
Biting is limited only by the stability of the dentures themselves. Insufficient bone structure (shrunken bone ridges covered by gum tissue), old or worn dentures, and a dry mouth decrease stability. Call us at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates to evaluate your personal situation.
"If I wear dentures, are dental adhesives necessary?"
Today's dentures have been significantly improved through advances in both dental and materials technologies. As a result, dentures that fit properly usually do not require adhesives to secure the dentures. When you are just getting used to dentures, adhesives may be advised, but otherwise should not be necessary.
At Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates we feel a loose denture is a sign that it doesn't fit your mouth correctly. When first getting used to dentures, you may notice them slipping when you laugh, smile, or cough, which is caused by air getting under the base and moving it. The more you wear dentures, the better you will be able to control their movements in these situations.
If your mouth has insufficient bone structure, dentures will be more difficult to retain. Dental implants may be advisable. These are placed in the bone and retain the denture with small, precision attachments.
For more information about how we at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates can help you with dentures, call us at 916-691-6020, we will be happy to talk with you.
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Partial Dentures
"What are partial dentures?"
Partial dentures are dentures that replace only a few missing teeth.
"How do you wear a removable partial denture?"
Removable partial dentures are attached to your natural teeth with metal clasps or devices called precision attachments.
"How long will it take to get used to wearing a partial denture?"
Your partial denture may feel awkward or bulky for the first few weeks, but your mouth will eventually get used to it.
"How long should you wear a partial denture?"
Initially, you may want to wear your partial denture all the time. Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how long it should be worn and when it should be removed. Generally, your mouth tissues need to rest so it is advisable that you take out your partial denture at least 15 minutes per day.
"Will the partial denture change the way I speak?"
Your partial denture may help your speech. It can be difficult to speak clearly when you are missing teeth. However, it also will take time to get used to it.
For more information about how we at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates can help you with denture questions, call us at 916-691-6020, we will be happy to talk with you.
Dentures and good oral hygiene
"How do you clean your dentures?"
When cleaning your dentures, you should first rinse away loose food particles thoroughly. Then moisten your toothbrush and apply denture cleanser. Brush every surface, scrubbing gently to avoid damage.
"How many times a day does the denture need to be cleaned?"
The denture needs to be cleaned two to three times daily.
"What is good oral hygiene when you have full dentures?"
In addition to taking care of your dentures, taking care of your mouth also is vital if you wear full dentures. This includes brushing your gums, tongue, and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush before inserting your dentures. This stimulates your tissues and helps remove plaque.
For more information about how we at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates can help you with dentures, call us at 916-691-6020, we will be happy to talk with you.
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Repair of a broken denture
"What should I do if my dentures crack or break?"
Call your dentist immediately. Normally, dentures can be repaired quickly, often on the same day at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates. Damaged dentures can cause additional oral health problems, so see your dentist right away. Never attempt to repair dentures yourself. They require professional repair and adjustment.
"Why can't you fix dentures that break with glue?"
Glues often contain harmful chemicals and are not effective in the proper repair of dentures.
For more information about how we at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates can help you with denture problems, call us at 916-691-6020, we will be happy to talk with you.
Xerostomia (dry mouth)
Dry mouth is a common problem. The lack of adequate saliva is more than bothersome for three out of every ten Americans.
When the natural flow of saliva is reduced, you can experience trouble swallowing, pain throughout oral tissues and, nearly always, a short-cut to dental caries and gum disease. The tongue sticks, food doesn't have much taste, and digestion suffers.
(For more details call us at 916-691-6020.)
Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates knows that Xerostomia, or dry mouth syndrome, can come with aging, or often as a side effect of many medications. Half of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy experience an extreme form of xerostomia, with critical effects on their dental health. At Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates we can help provide relief in the form of prescriptions for dry mouth toothpaste, special saliva-producing chewing gum, or saliva substitute solutions.
Orthodontics
Orthodontic dentistry
"What is orthodontics?"
Orthodontics, also known as malocclusion or "bad bite," is described by the American Association of Orthodontics as the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.
"What is an orthodontist?"
An orthodontist is a dentist who has undergone specialized training to diagnose, prevent, and treat dental and facial irregularities in patients.
Within the U.S., orthodontists are required to complete a two- to three-year advanced residency program in orthodontics following the completion of their four-year graduate dental program.
Each of these programs must be accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation.
For more information about how we at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates can help you with dental braces, call us at 916-691-6020, we will be happy to talk with you.
"What causes orthodontic problems?"
Most orthodontic problems are inherited, including tooth size and jaw size, and may lead to crowding of teeth or spacing of teeth. Overbites, underbites, extra or missing teeth, and irregularities of the jaws, teeth, and face also are inherited.
Other orthodontic problems can be caused from accidents, pacifier or thumb sucking, dental disease, or the premature loss of either the primary or permanent teeth.
"What habits contribute to bad bites?"
A number of childhood habits can lead to orthodontic problems, such as thumb or finger sucking, sucking on a pacifier, sucking on a lip, mouth breathing (often caused by enlarged tonsils and adenoids), fingernail biting, and "tongue thrust".
For more information about how we at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates can help you with dental braces, call us at 916-691-6020, we will be happy to talk with you.
Instant Orthodontics
Instant Orthodontics is a modern procedure that straightens teeth using veneers instead of braces. It can close large gaps and correct overcrowding in as little as one day. In addition, the natural teeth are strengthened by the bonded porcelain restorations. These restorations are placed above the gum-line, which helps keep the gum tissue healthy.
Instant Orthodontics is typically a pain-free procedure that only requires the use of local anesthetics.
Orthodontic Braces
The first steps in getting orthodontic braces
"What usually happens during an initial orthodontic exam?"
In order to determine your specific needs, an orthodontist will completely evaluate your mouth. This will likely include:
Impressions of your teeth, from which models are made (these are useful for the orthodontist, and will remind you exactly how your teeth looked before correction).
Photographs of your teeth, face, and smile
X-rays of your head and teeth
Your medical health history and dental health history
The doctor will then carefully evaluate your specific needs and provide you with a treatment plan for correction. Following the recommended plan is important for proper correction.
"What are spacers?"
Teeth normally fit tightly against one another. Spacers are inserted before placement of your braces to provide some space between teeth for attaching the bands. There are two types of spacers, small springs or plastic modules. In just a few days they gently move desired teeth slightly apart.
Spacers often cause some soreness, but this goes away in a few days. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to relieve the irritation. Your normal chewing also helps to get your mouth feeling better.
"What do I do if a spacer comes out?"
Call your doctor immediately for a replacement. That little spacer is making just enough room for a comfortable fit for your braces and plays an important role.
For more information about how we at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates can help you with dental braces, call us at 916-691-6020, we will be happy to talk with you.
Foods to avoid while wearing orthodontic braces
You can eat just about anything, but there are some exceptions. At Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates, we feel that getting used to braces also usually means making a few adjustments in your eating habits. This is because some food might damage your braces or cause problems for your teeth. Here's a list of items to avoid (or some ways they can still be enjoyed with caution):
Apples (don't bite into a whole one! Cut it into wedges first.)
Bubble gum (some orthodontists allow sugarless gum, but check with yours for approval)
Candy (caramels, taffy, nut brittles, fruit-flavored chewy candies, gummi anything!)
Carrots (avoid sticks, cut into thin curls)
Corn on the cob (remove the kernels from the cob, then enjoy!)
Corn chips/crisp tacos
Hard foods (they're tough on braces, causing bending and breaking)
Ice (no crunching!)
Lemon juice/lemons (pure lemon juice is very hard on your tooth enamel)
Nuts
Pizza crust/crusty breads (outer edges)
Popcorn
Pretzels (the large, hard varieties)
Sticky foods (can bend wires and pull off brackets)
Sugary foods (avoid these as much as possible; if you do eat them, brush your teeth within minutes or as soon as possible, or at least rinse your mouth with water)
For more information about how we at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates can help you with dental braces, call us at 916-451-6591, we will be happy to talk with you.
Dental braces - How early?
At Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates we use the simple guideline that children should be examined at the time their permanent teeth are beginning to come in. However, every child is different, and the best starting time for orthodontic treatment depends on the type of problem and how severe it is. So the answer really is: "It depends..."
If your child requires treatment, early intervention can make a real difference. We see the best results with treatments that would be impossible once your child's face and jaw have completely developed.
Also, when started early, completion of treatment at a later age is much easier.
During an initial examination, we will evaluate your child's facial growth, spacing between teeth, crowding, extra or missing teeth. And they will look for habits like tongue-thrusting and thumb-sucking that may hinder normal growth and development. These problems can change tooth alignment as well as alter facial appearance.
If your child doesn't require any early treatment, most dentists will schedule periodic follow-up exams while the permanent teeth are coming in and the face and jaws continue to grow.
Orthodontic treatment can bring your child's teeth, lips and face into harmony. And we all know that a pleasing appearance and beautiful smile give children -- and adults -- a big advantage in life.
For more information about how we at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates can help you with dental braces, call us at 916-691-6020, we will be happy to talk with you.
Dental care with braces
When your mouth is loaded with extras -- bands, brackets, and wires -- brushing your teeth gets tougher and extra important. Plus, braces interfere with the natural chewing process that normally bathes and exercises gums and helps clean teeth.
At Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates we feel caring for your teeth and keeping them cavity-free is a top priority during orthodontic treatment.
While proper-fitting bands or brackets usually protect the covered portion of your teeth, the brackets and wires on the outside of teeth make it harder for the toothbrush to clean between teeth.
Trapped food particles and plaque are a breeding ground for cavity-causing bacteria. Gum disease also can develop, causing swelling and making cleaning even more challenging and painful. Improper care can also stain tooth enamel.
"How often do I need to brush with dental braces?"
Preferably brush within five minutes after you eat anything, whether you’re snacking or after a meal. Brushing away cavity-causing bacteria helps keep your teeth cavity-free.
Carry a travel toothbrush in a backpack, purse, or briefcase to always have on hand for brushing away from home.
“How do I brush my teeth with braces?”
Brush between wires and gums to loosen any food particles. There are special toothbrushes for this, check with us for recommendations.
Start on the outside of your upper teeth, positioning the bristles at a 45 degree angle, toward the gum. Brush two to three teeth at a time using a circular motion, about ten strokes.
Next, brush the inner surfaces in the same manner.
Brush the chewing surfaces.
Repeat the same process for the lower teeth as for the upper ones.
Rinse your mouth as well as your toothbrush. Check your teeth in a mirror to make sure you've brushed all tooth surfaces.
Floss daily between braces using a floss threader.
Toothpicks, stimudents, and other interdental devices work well under brackets.
You may also want to use a water oral hygiene device that helps to remove food particles the toothbrush may not reach. It is used in addition to brushing and flossing, not as a substitute.
While wearing braces, be sure to schedule regular dental exams every three to six months for cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Senior Dental Care
Dental care for seniors
Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates feels that good habits of effective daily brushing, diet, and use of fluoride will help the aging person adapt to changing conditions. Reduced salivary flow and addition of medications will affect oral health dramatically.
Changes of the teeth and gums:
Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates has noted that teeth will darken because of long-term exposure to plaque and changes in the dentin within the tooth. The gums may recede and uncover the roots. Exposed roots will be darker than the enamel part of the tooth and are prone to decay. Fillings can decay and darken, too, as they weaken over time.
"Dry Mouth" may develop: Saliva is useful to lubricate, wash away plaque, and neutralize the acid produced by plaque. Flow of saliva can be reduced by a medical disorder or be a side effect of antihistamine, decongestants, pain killers or diuretics.
The build-up of plaque will accelerate tooth decay. There will also be more gum infection which will cause a loss of bone support for the teeth. Poorly-fitting or poorly-cleaned dentures, illness, and some medications increase the severity of the problem.
For more information regarding dental problems of the elderly, please call Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates at 916 691-6020 today.
Burning mouth and seniors
Burning mouth usually occurs in individuals over 50, but can affect others as well. There are several reasons why it occurs.
Denture problems: a new denture, or one that doesn't fit well, can irritate your entire mouth.
Reduced salivary gland function: Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates knows that this will cause the mouth to become dry, inviting oral discomfort, difficulty eating or swallowing, loss of taste, and a burning mouth. Salivary gland dysfunction sometimes comes with age. But there are saliva substitutes and rinses at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates that we can prescribe to protect your oral tissues, and soothe burning sensations.
Medications: these often dry the mouth (side effects)
Vitamin deficiency: there is some evidence linking burning mouth syndrome to Vitamin B deficiency.
Candida infections: this is a common oral fungus, usually apparent to the eye but sometimes undetectable. At Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates we can prescribe a topical anti-fungal agent that can help the problem.
Snoring Help
Sleep apnea is a potentially dangerous disorder with fairly benign symptoms such as loud snoring at night, and morning headaches or daytime bouts of sleepiness. The cause? Intermittent periods throughout sleep when you actually stop breathing.
Breathing cessation, or apnea, lasts from seconds to nearly a minute. When breathing resumes, the brain senses lack of oxygen and wakes you up. The snoring is loud, sometimes explosive. (Call us at Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates for complete details.)
In the morning, the build-up of carbon dioxide in the blood causes headaches. And the lack of deep sleep can leave one drowsy and usually grouchy, during the day.
During sleep apnea, the upper air passages in the mouth and throat are obstructed (no one is sure why, even Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates). One form of treatment that has proven successful is wearing an acrylic appliance during sleep to keep air passages open. It's comfortable and easy to use.
Crisis vs. Preventative Treatment
Many people don't see a dentist on a regular basis. They go only when they feel they have a problem. At Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates we call this "crisis treatment" as opposed to "preventive treatment".
While these patients may feel they are saving money, it usually ends up costing much more in both dollars and time. The reason for this is that most dental problems don't have any symptoms until they reach the advanced stages.
An example is tooth decay. At Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates we hear all the time, "Nothing hurts... I don't have any problems". But tooth decay doesn't hurt! Until, that is, it gets close to the nerve of the tooth.
Then a root canal and crown are usually necessary, instead of the small filling, which could have been placed several years ago when the cavity was small. Dr. Thaddous Archie & Associates can usually detect a cavity 3-4 years before it may develop any symptoms. It is not uncommon to see a patient with a tremendous cavity and they have never felt a thing!
Post-Op Care
In order to ensure the best possible healing after your surgery, Dr. Thaddous Archie has prepared for you a convenient list of post-operative instructions for various procedures you might have undergone.
Click on the procedure of your choice to read about her post-op care recommendations.
Do not hesitate to contact our office at 916-691-6020 if you have any additional questions and to report excessive bleeding or swelling, persistent and severe pain or any reaction to medications.
Post operative instructions after restorative treatment (fillings)
Post operative instructions after cosmetic reconstruction
Post operative instructions for new dentures
Post operative instructions for temporary crowns or bridges
Post operative instructions following scaling and root planning
POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
AFTER RESTORATIVE TREATMENT (FILLINGS)
When anesthesia has been used, your lips, teeth, and tongue may be numb for several hours after the appointment. Avoid any chewing until the numbness has completely worn off. It is recommended that you take some ibuprofen before the anesthetic completely wears off. This will help with any swelling or pain at the injection sites where your anesthetic was administered. It will also help diminish any swelling in the nerve that may be existent (swelling often occurs in the nerve after cleaning out decay from the tooth).
It is normal to experience some hot, cold and pressure sensitivity after your appointment. Your gums may be sore for several days. Rinse your mouth three times a day with warn salt water (put a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, rinse and spit) to reduce pain and swelling.
It has been found that approximately six percent of teeth that require extensive fillings actually have very sick or dead nerves. Most of these teeth may have a problem with the nerve even if the tooth has not been bothering you before. That is why it is important to continue taking care of the tooth and trying to keep the swelling down in the nerve, to ensure that if enough life is left in the nerve, it may heal after the restorative treatment. For this to occur, the ibuprofen tablets should be continued every eight hours for two or three days after treatment unless you cannot take that medicine.
You may chew right away on new white fillings, since they set completely on the day of your appointment.
If your bite feels uneven, if you have persistent pain, or if you have any other questions or concerns, please call our office immediately to obtain help or advice.
POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS AFTER COSMETIC RECONSTRUCTION:
Remember that it will take time to adjust to the feel of your new bite. When the bite is altered, or the position of the teeth is changed, it takes several days for the brain to recognize the new position of your teeth or their thickness as normal. If you continue to detect any high spots or problems with your bite, call us so we can schedule an adjustment appointment. It’s normal to experience some hot, cold and pressure sensitivity. Removing tooth structure and placement of new materials may result in a period of adjustment. Your gums may also be sore for several days. Rinse three times a day with warm salt water (a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, rinse-swish and spit) to reduce pain and swelling.
Mild pain medication should ease your discomfort during the adjustment period. Don’t be concerned if your speech is affected for the first few days. You’ll quickly adapt and be speaking normally. You may notice increased salivary flow, as your brain sometimes responds to the new size and shape of your teeth by increasing salivary flow This should subside to normal within a week or so. Daily plaque removal is critical for the long-term success of your dental work. Maintain a regular oral hygiene routine. Daily brushing and flossing is a must. Regular cleaning appointments in our office are also critically important.
We’ll use the appropriate cleaning abrasives and techniques for your specific cosmetic work. It is important to change habits to protect your new teeth. Any food that could chip, crack, or damage your natural teeth can do the same to your new cosmetic restorations. Avoid sticky candies, any unusually hard foods or substances such as peanut brittle, fingernails, pencils or ice. Avoid or minimize your use of foods that stain, such as tea, coffee, red wine and berries. Smoking will quickly yellow your teeth. Let us know if you grind your teeth at night or engage in sports so we can make you a custom mouth guard. Adjusting to the look and feel of your new smile will take time. If you have any problems or concerns, you’re always welcome to contact our office at 916-691-6020.
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POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS AFTER TOOTH EXTRACTION:
Tooth extraction is a surgical procedure. Therefore, it is natural that temporary changes will occur in the mouth afterward. You will be functioning normally within a few days. In the meantime, you should follow a few simple rules to help promote healing, prevent complications, and make yourself more comfortable. Your mouth will still be numb for a few hours after the extraction so you will want to be careful not to bite your cheek, lip or tongue. After an extraction, it is important to allow a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. This is why we ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes after the procedure.
If bleeding or oozing continues after you remove the gauze pad, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another thirty minutes. You may have to do this several times. After the blood clot forms, it is important to protect it, especially for the next 24 hours. Do not smoke, suck through a straw, rinse you mouth vigorously, or clean the teeth next to the extraction site. These activities will dislodge the clot and slow down healing. Limit yourself to calm activities for the first 24 hours. This keeps your blood pressure lower, reduces bleeding and helps the healing process. After the tooth is extracted, you may feel some pain and have some swelling. You can use an ice bag to keep this to a minimum. The swelling usually starts to go down after 48 hours. Use pain medication only as directed, and call the office if it does not seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if all symptoms and signs of infection are gone.
Drink lots of fluids and eat only soft nutritious foods on the day of the extraction. Don’t use alcoholic beverages and avoid hot and spicy foods. You can begin eating normally the next day, or as soon as it is comfortable. Gently rinse your mouth with salt water three times a day (mix one teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water, rinse-swish-spit). Also, rinse gently after meals-it helps to keep food out of the extraction site. It is very important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours, which should include brushing your teeth and tongue and flossing at least once a day. This speeds healing and helps keep your breath and mouth fresh. Call the office right away if you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling after two or three days, or a reaction to the medication. After a few days you will be feeling fine and can resume your normal activities.
POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS AFTER ROOT CANAL THERAPY:
t canal therapy often takes two or more appointments to complete. A temporary filling or crown is placed to protect the tooth between appointments. After each appointment when anesthetic has been used, your lips, teeth and tongue may be numb for several hours after the appointment. Avoid any chewing until the numbness has completely worn off. Between appointments it is common (and not a problem) for a small portion of your temporary filling to wear away or break off. If the entire filling falls out, or if a temporary crown comes off, call us so that it can be replaced. It is normal to experience some discomfort for several days after a root canal appointment, especially when chewing.
To control discomfort, take pain medication as recommended. To further reduce pain and swelling, rinse three times a day with warm salt water (mix one teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water, rinse-swish-spit). If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them as instructed even if all symptoms and signs of infection are gone. To protect the tooth and help keep your temporary in place, avoid eating sticky foods, especially gum, hard foods, and if possible, chew only on the opposite side of your mouth. It is important to continue to brush and floss normally. Usually, the last step after a root canal treatment is the placement of a crown on the tooth. A crown covers and protects the tooth from breaking in the future. If your bite feels uneven, if you have persistent swelling or pain, or you have any other questions or concerns, please call the office.
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POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS FOR NEW DENTURES:
New dentures, whether full or partial, will always require a period of adjustment. We are confident that we have done our best to provide you with a prosthesis that is well fitting, functional, and esthetic. Since they may cover areas of your mouth that are not normally covered, your speech may be altered and require adaptation of the tongue and lips for proper speech. This may feel strange initially, and in a few weeks, you will become accustomed to wearing them.
Usually your mouth may develop a few sore spots after the first day of wearing your new prosthesis. These areas can be relieved easily at your follow-up appointments. Subsequent sore spots can be relieved at regular appointments or whenever necessary. Removable dentures do not have the same chewing efficiency as natural teeth. The stability and retention of dentures depends on many factors. Your bite will not feel comfortable for a period of days. We will adjust the way the teeth contact at your follow-up appointments to obtain the most stable and efficient chewing process as your new dentures settle into place. Dentures can affect the taste of food and acquire stains and odor. Proper cleaning is required. Please follow the cleaning instructions presented to you in the office and review the care instructions in your new denture kit. Removable prostheses may retain food in certain spots. This is unavoidable and requires that you practice meticulous home care.
Do not wear your dentures to bed. You gum tissue and jaw bones need the rest in order to prevent further tissue irritation, infection, and future shrinkage. Dentures are subject to wear as are all fabricated appliances and restorations. Worn portions may need to be replaced or the entire prosthesis may require replacing. With time, gum tissue and the bone underneath change. When your natural teeth are missing, this shrinkage can be about 0.03 inches a year. Relines may be necessary to achieve a snug fit again. Since these changes should be monitored, an annual check-up of your tissues and dentures is recommended.
