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Are Your Headaches Related to Dental Issues?

If you suffer from chronic headaches that have not responded to treatment from your physician, it could be that they are related to a dental issue. The cranium is connected to the jawbone, which is prone to issues having to do with oral health. The jawbone is also susceptible to problems related to its function. Because of this, your dentist in Salina, KS might be able to help you get rid of your chronic headaches.

Bruxism and Chronic Headaches

Bruxism is the practice of teeth grinding. It usually occurs unconsciously and can happen during the night when a person is sleeping, or during the day. It is often associated with stress and anxiety, but can also result as a secondary problem of improper teeth alignment. The grinding motion fatigues the muscles in the jaw and places stress on the joint of the jaw is located just in front of the ear. Due to the skeletal connection, bruxism can cause chronic headaches.

Bacterial Infection and Chronic Headaches

Tooth abscesses and tooth and/or gum infections mean that there is a buildup of bad bacteria. This bacteria can damage nerve endings in the teeth and gums. When the nerve tissue is infected, it frequently ends up transferring the pain to the head, which feels like a headache. If you haven’t visited your Salina, KS dentist in a while and you do have chronic headaches, it’s possible that the reason is actually an infection in the oral cavity.

TMJ and Chronic Headaches

The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is the joint in the jaw just in front of the ear. Problems with this joint can result in pain that radiates to the head, showing up as a chronic headache, similarly to the way bruxism causes headaches. Talk to your dentist about issues with TMJ in Salina, KS.

Don’t assume that your chronic headaches are a lost cause. The solution may just lie in your dentist’s chair. Contact us today to book an appointment.

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3 Benefits of Pinhole Dental Surgery

Dental surgery for receding gums is common, particularly for the 65+ crowd. If you have a gingival recession, pinhole surgery in Salina, KS might be able to treat the issue with as little disruption to your life as possible. We’ll look at what it is and why it’s a popular procedure.

What Is Pinhole Surgery?

The surgeon pricks a tiny hole in the gums and inserts a small device that can stretch the gums down to where they belong. From there, the dentist will insert collagen strips to ensure the gums stay in place. There are a number of distinct advantages to choosing this type of surgery, including:

  • Minimally invasive: Unlike skin-grafting procedures, pinhole surgery is far less invasive. It’s short, relatively painless, and easier on the body.
  • Affordable: Because skin grafts require multiple sessions, its overall cost is typically more than pinhole surgery, which can treat the whole mouth with just one visit.
  • Healthier mouth: Receding gums can wreak havoc in your mouth, so it’s important to address the problem as quickly as possible.

The pinhole surgery technique makes it easier for the body to recover after all is said and done. The ability to treat the whole mouth at once for this issue is truly revolutionary for patients.

Dental Surgeon in Salina, KS

Not everyone is right for the pinhole procedure. Habits like smoking may preclude you from receiving it, so it’s important to talk to a doctor about your options. At The Fine Art of Family Dentistry, we’re here to help you learn more about the procedures. Contact us today if you would like to talk to a dentist who can help.

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How Did My Teeth Get So Yellow?

Teeth yellow naturally over time. When we’re very young, our teeth are white and beautiful. As you learn to drink tea and coffee, consume wine and tomato sauce, your teeth can start to turn yellow or even brown. Keeping your teeth clean, visiting the dentist in Salina KS on a regular basis, and getting your teeth whitened can help.

What Causes Teeth to Yellow

Teeth can become yellow over the course of many years, as they’re exposed to food and drinks that stain, particularly if the foods are acidic in nature. Smoking can also cause your teeth to become yellow. Over-exposure to fluoride and exposure to certain medications can also cause yellowing of the teeth.

Some people are also more prone to yellow teeth than others. If you’re noticing that your teeth are turning yellow and you’re not sure why, talk to your dentist to find out what might be the cause.

What You Can Do to Prevent Your Teeth from Yellowing

Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the ways that you can prevent your teeth from yellowing.

  • Brush your teeth twice per day.
  • Floss your teeth once per day.
  • See your dentist for a tooth cleaning every six months.

You can also get your teeth whitened on a regular basis. Whitening your teeth periodically can brighten the enamel for a whiter, more beautiful smile.

How to Whiten Your Teeth Safely

Although there are kits that may allow you to whiten your teeth at home, the best way to get your teeth whitened is to have the work done at the dentist. Tooth whitening done at the dentist also lasts longer and is more effective. For teeth whitening in Salina KS, call today to make an appointment.

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A Look at the Common Causes Behind Gum Recession 

Gum recession is the breakdown of the lower periodontal tissue that covers the root of a tooth. Unfortunately, this is a common oral health issue and not one that should be overlooked. If you have problems with gum tissue deterioration, it is important that you visit a general dentist in Salina, KS as quickly as possible. But what causes this problem? Here is a look at some of the reasons certain people can be more prone to gum recession than others.

Aggressive Brushing Habits

Aggressively brushing your teeth may seem like a good idea. After all, you are trying to slough away food buildup and bacteria. However, when you brush really aggressively, you can inadvertently damage your gum tissue over time. Always brush firmly and thoroughly, but be mindful of the soft tissue that supports the base of your teeth that could be damaged.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is a very common problem that is typically related to poor oral hygiene. An overaccumulation of bacteria leads to swelling, inflammation, and deterioration of the gum tissue if the problem is not treated right away.

Genetics

Genetics and simply the shape of your smile and mouth can also have a part to play in gum recession. Sometimes, the way the teeth erupt through the gums leaves only a thin and fragile layer of gum tissue surrounding the root. This fragile tissue breaks down far easier than usual.

Find Out About Pinhole Surgery for Gum Recession at a Salina Dentist

Pinhole surgery for gum recession is a non-invasive procedure that may help restore gum tissue so your teeth have adequate protection. A Salina, KS dentist can help. Reach out to us at Fine Art of Family Dentistry to find out more about this modern treatment option.

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Could Your Dental Problems Be Causing Your Headaches?

Nothing can ruin a good day faster than a nagging headache. If you struggle with headaches that seem to have no apparent cause, it may be time to book an appointment with your dentist in Salina, KS. Your dental professional can conduct a routine exam and perform diagnostic tests that may reveal hidden causes of headaches, such as the following:

Temporomandibular Joint Pain (TMJ Dysfunction)

You have two temporomandibular joints that connect your jawbone to your skull. They’re located just to the front of each ear. If you have damage or injury to one or both of these joints, the results may feel like an immensely painful headache. Several factors can contribute to TMJ dysfunction, including arthritis, sports injuries, or even genetics.

If you suspect you’re having issues with your temporomandibular joints, talk to your dental professional. Treatment for TMJ dysfunction in Salina may help. Symptoms include pain or tenderness near your ears that seems to radiate throughout your face. It may feel like an extreme headache or even a migraine, but in reality, it’s a dental problem.

Dental Occlusion

In dental terms, occlusion refers to the way your upper teeth meet your lower teeth. When they’re misaligned, you have a malocclusion. This can cause problems with speech, biting, chewing, and even pain that presents itself as a headache. Make an appointment with your dentist today if you’re having issues with teeth alignment.

Cavities

Did you know cavities can cause headaches? These are actually tension headaches that occur because the pain of your toothache is causing muscle tension in your face and neck. Tooth extraction in Salina, KS can cure headaches caused by tooth decay and toothache.

If you’re tired of headaches that seem to come and go without good cause, call the Fine Art of Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation. It may be your oral health that’s at the root of the issue.

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Can Invisalign Straighten Adult Teeth?

Have you been considering Invisalign treatment in Salina, KS? If so, you may be under the impression that any form of smile alignment, including Invisalign, is only a viable option for teens. Thankfully, Invisalign is perfectly suitable for adults. In fact, this type of smile alignment may be even more suitable for adults than traditional metal braces.

A Closer Look at How Invisalign Works

Invisalign smile alignment involves using a series of clear aligners that are molded to your teeth to gradually move teeth into the proper position. You will initially be fitted with aligners, and the dentist will make a series of trays that you will wear every day on a pre-determined schedule or as the changes in your smile progress. You wear the trays at all times, except for when you are eating, so the aligners are constantly but gently doing their jobs to align your teeth.

Why Invisalign Works Well for Adults

Invisalign aligners are worn at all times, but they are totally inconspicuous. In fact, most people will not know that you are straightening your smile unless you told them or pulled out your aligner to show them what you are doing. This is one of the biggest draw factors for adults; no metal braces, no wires, and no major discomfort. The treatment time is relatively brief as long as you wear your aligners for the recommended 22 hours per day.

Talk to a Salina Dentist About Invisalign

If you have smile alignment imperfections that prevent you from being fully confident with your smile, it may be time to get a good look at your options with a Salina dentist. If you believe Invisalign may be right for you, reach out to us at Fine Art of Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation.

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Tips For Managing a Sugar Addiction to Save Your Teeth

If you have been struggling with a sugar addiction, you know how hard it can be to get over it. Sugar is the most destructive substance for your teeth. Your dentist in Salina, KS wants you to know that you should do whatever you can to manage your sugar addiction to save your teeth. Here are some helpful tips.

Substitute Processed Foods For Natural Foods

Processed food contains a lot of sugar; probably more than you even realize. Even if you aren’t eating candy, it’s likely that you’re ingesting way more sugar than is good for your teeth. Try substituting natural, whole foods. That way, you control the ingredients and can avoid added sugar.

Wait 15 Minutes

Experts in addictions have determined that most cravings subside in 15 minutes or less. If you have a sweet craving, try holding off for 15 minutes and see if your craving goes away. More often than not, you’ll find you no longer want to eat that sugary snack.

Distract Yourself

You can also try forcing yourself to pay attention to something else when a sweet craving strikes. Go for a walk outdoors, cuddle with your pet, do some work, or do something else. Anything that gets your mind off your craving will work.

Brush Your Teeth

Another little trick is to brush your teeth when you have a craving for sugar. The taste and sensation of fresh mint in your mouth may make you want to retain that feeling instead of wrecking it with some sugary substance.

Seek Professional Help

If your sugar addiction is related to other problems such as alcoholism or obesity, consider seeking professional help. Something so easy as attending regular support group meetings may be enough for you to combat your addiction.

If you do have a sugar addiction, it’s very important that you have frequent dentist visits. Make sure you have regular dental appointments so that your Salina, KS dentist can monitor your dental health.

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4 Things You Might Be Doing Wrong When Brushing Teeth

Tooth brushing is an art. If you’re not doing it correctly, you could be doing damage to your teeth. When you come visit your dentist in Salina, KS, we’ll teach you how to brush your teeth and give you reminders about tooth brushing best practices, which can make the experience overall more productive and better for your teeth.

1. Brushing Too Hard

Brushing too hard is bad for your tooth enamel and also for your gums. Brushing too hard against the gum line can cause the gums to recede faster than they would otherwise, which can expose the hidden parts of your teeth and may lead to bone loss. When brushing your teeth, it’s best to brush lightly, so that this doesn’t happen.

2. Using the Wrong Brush

The brush you choose should have soft to medium-soft bristles, so that the regular brushing action doesn’t do damage to your teeth. Toothbrushes should have their bristle softness labeled on the outside of the package, so check the softness of the bristles before you buy the brush.

3. Keeping Your Toothbrush For Too Long

Once your toothbrush is old, the bristles will become bent, stiff, and less effective. They might even bend away from your teeth, which makes the toothbrush overall a not very useful tool. Replace your toothbrush every two or three months to prevent this from becoming a problem. If your toothbrush bristles are bent, this is a sign that you need to replace your toothbrush (and could also be an indication that you’re brushing too hard!).

4. Over-Brushing

Over-brushing is just as bad as brushing too hard – it can wear away the tooth enamel and your gums, which can expose your teeth below the gum line and lead to bone loss. If you’re not sure whether you’re taking the wrong approach to brushing your teeth, consult with your dentist the next time you come in for a dental cleaning and appointment in Salina, KS.

 

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The Pinhole Surgical Technique: Top Patient Concerns

For patients who have issues with gum recession, the number one option was once gum graft surgery. However, modern advancements in dental treatment have led the way to a new option: pinhole gingival surgery. If your dentist recommends pinhole surgery for your gum recession issues, you will likely have a few questions and concerns. Take a look at some of the common concerns and information to guide you through the procedure.

How long will the pinhole procedure take?

Normally, dentists will do one arch of your mouth at a time; either your upper gum line or your lower. The full pinhole procedure can be complete in about an hour for all gum tissue on either the upper or lower jaw. Most often, if you need treatment for both upper and lower gums, you will need two appointments to cover all areas.

Does pinhole gingival surgery hurt?

Just as it is with other procedures, the dentist will be using a localized anesthetic as they work to keep you comfortable. After the procedure, you may need over-the-counter medications but should not be in any substantial amount of pain.

How long will it take to see results?

One of the reasons patients and dentists prefer pinhole gingival treatment is how quickly the procedure yields results. Your gums will actually look less receded by the time you leave the office because the pinhole procedure helps to push tissue against the exposed roots immediately. You should see full results as your gums heal within a few days.

Find Gum Disease Treatment in Salina, KS

Gum disease of any level can be a threat to the health f your smile. If you have gum disease and issues with gum recession, reach out to us at Fine Art of Family Dentistry in Salina, KS to schedule an appointment.

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