An Inconvenient Imbalance: Why Does My Jaw Hurt Only on One Side?

Jaw pain can range in severity from mildly annoying to utterly agonizing, and it is often caused by untreated oral health issues. Thankfully, your dentist is trained and equipped to provide emergency treatments and restorative procedures that can restore comfort to your mouth and allow it to function well. Here’s a quick look at why your jaw may only hurt on one side and how your oral health professional can help.

I’m an Athlete; What Dental Health Issues Should I Watch Out For?

Sports and other athletic activities can be excellent ways to get exercise, have fun, and develop important life skills like teamwork, but athletes can be especially likely to develop certain dental injuries if they are not careful. Thankfully, these issues can usually be prevented with the proper precautions and your emergency dentist will be happy to help if you damage a tooth. Here’s a quick look at how athletes can develop oral injuries, how this can be prevented, and how your dentist can address these issues.

What Should I Do If My Invisalign Aligner Doesn’t Fit?

Advancing to a new set of Invisalign aligners is an exciting time. It means that you’re making real, tangible progress towards your beautiful new smile. But what happens when your aligners don’t fit on your arches? After all, if you can’t get them onto your teeth, how can they move them? If you’re having trouble getting your trays on, here are a few tips and tricks you can try to keep your new smile right on schedule.

Chewies

You may have already heard of Invisalign Chewies. These handy little reusable devices can be used for many things, including helping to put your aligners on. To use them, simply bite down on your Chewie starting at the back of your arch, and then slowly slide the Chewie forward, biting down until the aligner is completely in place.

Put it in Reverse

If using a Chewie still doesn’t help get your trays on, it’s possible that you need to go back to your previous pair, but make sure you have your dentist’s approval before you do this. While it shouldn’t set your treatment timeline back too far if this happens occasionally, if you notice that you are struggling regularly to get your aligners on and having to backtrack frequently, make sure you’re wearing them for at least 22 hours a day. If you aren’t meeting the minimum requirements for time, your teeth won’t move on schedule and your trays won’t fit when they’re supposed to.

Bite Exercises

Bite exercises are movements you can make with your jaw that help encourage your teeth to move, especially your front teeth. Even if they seem silly or you don’t think they’ll do anything, they truly can help keep your treatment on track and ensure that your smile is moving on schedule!

Other Reasons Your Aligners May Not Fit Properly

If your aligners are damaged, it could be difficult to get a proper fit. To prevent them from changing shape, make sure you never wear them while you’re eating or drinking anything other than cold or room-temperature water. Hot foods and beverages can cause them to melt or warp, which will make it harder for them to fit correctly.

Remember, Invisalign is a faster, easier way to align your smile, but if you don’t wear your trays, your teeth won’t move into their proper alignment. If you’re struggling to get your aligners on, try these tips, or contact your dentist for more help.

About Our Practice

At Lexington Smile Studio, our trio of talented dentists are ready to give you your best smile ever. We are proud to offer a variety of dental treatments ranging from preventive care to cosmetic improvements and everything in between. If you’re ready to get straighter, more evenly- spaced teeth easier and faster than with traditional orthodontics, Invisalign aligners could be the answer. To learn more about this treatment and to see if it can benefit you, please schedule a consultation with us today by visiting our website or calling us directly at 781-773-2076.

Dental Crowns: How Long Can You Expect Them to Last?

With a dental crown, your dentist can restore and protect your damaged, decayed, or weakened teeth. But just how long can you expect your crown to last? Even the most well-made restoration will need to be replaced eventually, so you’ll naturally want to have an idea of when you can expect that to happen. Here’s a brief look at the facts regarding the longevity of your dental crown.

What Does the Lifespan of a Dental Crown Normally Look Like?

While the average lifespan of a dental crown is around 10 years, some may need to be replaced after 5 years while others can last for 15 years or even longer. In other words, the exact length of time can vary from patient to patient.

What Factors Can Affect the Lifespan of Your Dental Crown?

There are several factors that can help determine how long your dental crown is able to last, such as the following:

• The Material Used: Dental crowns can be made out of a variety of materials, some of which are more durable than others.
• The Location of the Crown: Compared to the front teeth, the molars near the back of your mouth tend to be exposed to more pressure from chewing. As such, a crown placed on a molar may not last as long as one attached to a front tooth.
• The Care the Crown Receives: Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding bad oral habits can go a long way toward ensuring that you’re able to keep your dental crown for many years.

How Can You Help Your Dental Crown Last Longer?

 If you want to maximize the lifespan of your dental crown, you should follow these simple steps:

• Remember to brush at least two times a day. Pay close attention to the area where the dental crown meets the gums.
• Avoid overly hard foods that can damage your dental crown. It’s also best to stay away from sticky foods that might pull the restoration off your teeth.
• Try to avoid clenching and grinding your teeth. It’s wise to invest in a nightguard so that you can protect your dental crown from any clenching or grinding that might occur while you’re asleep.
• Visit your dentist every six months for regular checkups and cleanings so that they can make sure there aren’t any problems developing with your dental crown.

With the right care, your dental crown can keep your tooth safe for many years to come. That said, if you think your dental crown might need to be replaced soon, call your dentist right away to see what they recommend.

About the Practice

Here at Lexington Smile Studio, our team consists of multiple dental experts who are able to provide a wide range of advanced procedures under a single roof. We can help patients repair their damaged teeth with dental crowns that are personalized for their unique smiles. To schedule a consultation at our practice, visit our website or call (781) 861-7645.

Why See an Emergency Dentist for Facial Swelling?

If you suffer from a swollen face, dental care likely isn’t your first thought. You may imagine you’ll need care from a local skin doctor. Still, the truth is that you should see an emergency dentist for facial swelling matters. They can often treat the issue as easily as they would mouth pain or oral infections. As for how and why that’s the case, trust your Newton dentist to explain in this helpful summary.

Why See a Dentist for Facial Swelling?

To be honest, emergency dentists can (and usually do) treat facial swelling. Their education and training equip them to solve that particular problem.

It comes down to the fact that facial swelling indicates an abscessed tooth. When a tooth’s infection worsens enough, bacteria can start to irritate the area around your jawline. Facial tissues will then develop a rapid fluid buildup to fight off said bacteria. Once that happens, you’ll suffer a swollen face that feels and looks unpleasant.

Given the points above, a swollen face can point to a dental emergency. It’s a major sign that you have a tooth infection that’s getting much worse.

How Would They Fix the Problem?

Whatever you may have thought, a dentist’s treatment for facial swelling isn’t that special. They’ll simply follow the methods they always do for dental emergencies.

That emergency treatment process involves a few key steps. For starters, the dentist will conduct an oral exam and take some dental X-rays to diagnose the issue. Once they learn the cause of your swollen face, they’ll share their thoughts and suggest an effective procedure. This work could include root canal therapy, tooth extraction, and so on.

With just these actions, you can find a solution for facial swelling. You’d then get a face that looks and feels normal again!

Wouldn’t An ER Be Better?

Since facial swelling is often serious, it’s easy to think an ER could handle it better than an emergency dentist. However, the latter is a better treatment provider than the former.

You see, ERs usually can’t address facial swelling. Assuming your cheeks and jaw have “puffed up” from dental issues, their staff won’t have the right training to help. They’d only be able to provide you with pain relievers or antibiotics – half-measures at best.

You’ll get excellent results if you see an emergency dentist for facial swelling. So, don’t delay and schedule your dental visit soon!

About the Practice

Waban Dental Group is based in Newton, MA. Led by a large team of talented dentists, our practice aims to provide all patients with the best dentistry possible. We meet that goal by offering preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments tailored to each smile and its unique needs. In other words, our team is always ready and able to help your teeth and gums thrive! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (617)-527-6061.

Urgent Care with Quality: What to Look for in a Good Emergency Dentist

At the outset, you may not care who you see for a dental emergency. Just finding an available dental provider can seem like the highest priority in your situation. However, the truth is that you should know what to look for in a good emergency dentist. You won’t get the urgent oral care you need if you don’t, leading to all sorts of problems down the line. So, let your Melrose practice lay out four factors you should consider when searching for an emergency dentist.

Wide-Ranging Emergency Services

You’ll want to find an emergency dentist who offers a wide range of emergency services. Otherwise, there’s a good chance you won’t get quality treatment.

Remember, dental emergencies tend to vary. Each is distinct and has its own set of potential causes at work. If your chosen dentist only provides one or two emergency services, they may be unable to help. That would mean living with your dental issue even longer, putting your smile at greater risk of harm.

Top-Tier Dental Technology

In your search for care, you should also ensure the dentist has top-tier dental technology. The quality of their tools will affect your treatment results.

Even if a dentist is skilled and knowledgeable, that won’t matter if they lack the right technology. Some dental treatments can only be done with specific dental tools. When a dentist doesn’t have them, a needed procedure could be too unsafe. Proceeding anyway would just cause further damage to your smile.

Close Location & Accessible Hours

The ideal emergency dentist will also have a close location and accessible hours. If the one you pick doesn’t have these things, your situation will likely get worse.

By their very nature, dental emergencies demand near-immediate care. Delays in treatment make them more severe and tend to result in long-term complications. Given those facts, seeing a dentist with a distant location or limited hours would be unwise. Doing so puts your smile in a lot of danger.

Helpful Payment Options

When treating a dental emergency, you may assume money is (or should be) no object. Even so, you should pick an emergency dentist who offers helpful payment options.

Note that a treatment is only useful when you can afford it. If the fix for your dental emergency exceeds your budget, you simply won’t be able to get it. Fortunately, some dentists offer payment options that help patients cover their treatment costs. These range from flexible financing programs that let you pay in installments to dental membership plans.

Clearly, knowing what to look for in an emergency dentist is crucial. Keep the factors above in mind as you make your pick!

About the Practice

Melrose Dental Group is based in Melrose, MA. Led by Dr. Piro Leno and his team, our practice aims to give each patient truly thriving teeth and gums. That goal leads us to tailor our preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments to your smile and its unique needs! In doing so, we’ll make your mouth prettier and healthier than ever before. For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (781)-665-1552.

Is Lip or Tongue-Tie Treatment Available for Adults?

As an adult, living with a lip or tongue-tie can be problematic. Although it may be something you’ve struggled with throughout your life, the challenges of eating, speaking, and socializing can become increasingly difficult as you get older. Fortunately, there is a solution that can remedy the problem once and for all – a frenectomy. Keep reading to discover the purpose of this treatment and how it can improve your overall quality of life.

What Are Common Symptoms Associated with Lip or Tongue-Tie?

Although you may already be struggling with eating certain foods and being unable to speak clearly, other symptoms can be associated with these banded tissues, such as:

• Frequent headaches or migraines
• Overcrowded teeth
• Indigestion
• Low self-esteem because of gapped teeth
• Overbite
• Pain throughout your head, neck, and jaw
• Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease

Why Do Adults Develop a Lip or Tongue-Tie?

Lip and tongue-ties, otherwise known as tethered oral tissues (TOTS) or simply banded tissues, do not randomly form during adulthood. Instead, they are present after birth; however, if treated is avoided or dismissed during infancy and childhood, more serious problems can manifest later in life.

As you begin to develop more complex linguistics and eat a denser, more varied diet, you may begin to notice how challenging it can become to live with a lip or tongue-tie as an adult.

What is a Frenectomy & How Can It Help?

The good news is that you don’t have to continue living with this problem. Instead, you can meet with a trusted dentist who is skilled and trained to provide lip and tongue-tie treatment. Referred to as a frenectomy, the procedure is fast and highly effective.

While many dentists use traditional scalpels and sutures to perform the surgery, others turn to more advanced technologies such as the dental soft tissue laser. Designed for a more comfortable approach to treatment, this device contains a concentrated beam of light that quickly releases the banded tissue underneath the tongue or behind the upper lip, allowing for greater oral movement and range of motion.

As the laser lacerates the tissue, it will cauterize the area as well, reducing the amount of bleeding and swelling you might otherwise experience.

Treating your lip or tongue-tie as an adult can be one of the best decisions you’ll make as it concerns your oral and overall health. By addressing it now, you can maintain a greater sense of self-confidence no matter who you’re around.

About the Author
Dr. Lindsey McElligott is a Lexington dentist who earned her dental degree in 2008 from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Passionate about treating children and adults who suffer from lip and tongue-ties, she uses dental lasers to improve oral movement by releasing these bands of tissue. As a result, individuals can begin to experience a better quality of life. If you or a loved one have a lip or tongue-tie that needs to be addressed, contact us at (781) 861-7645.

Can My Toddler Be Treated for a Lip or Tongue-Tie?

Can My Toddler Be Treated for a Lip or Tongue-Tie? Toddlers bring a level of excitement to any household. With their curiosity for the world and eagerness to test out their walking and talking skills, you’re likely to find yourself busy from morning until night. But have you noticed lately that they are struggling more with eating certain foods or trying to say specific words or sounds? If so, it could be that a lip or tongue-tie is to blame. Find out what symptoms are attributed to this common problem and how a trusted dentist in your area can help.

How Can I Know If My Child Has a Lip or Tongue-Tie?

It’s common for infants and toddlers to show different symptoms than children and adults when it comes to knowing whether they have a lip or tongue-tie. For toddlers who are no longer nursing or taking a bottle, some of the most likely signs of there being a problem include:

• Difficulty moving the tongue outward
• Restricted range of motion for the lip and/or tongue
• Delayed speech
• Difficulty chewing and digesting certain foods
• Increased risk of tooth decay
• Mouth breathing
• Gagging or choking when attempting to eat

What Kind of Treatment Is Available for My Child’s Lip or Tongue-Tie?

The procedure used to address your toddler’s lip or tongue-tie is a frenectomy. This is the same process required for infants, children, and adults.

Using a soft tissue dental laser that produces no heat, vibration, or any other uncomfortable sound or feeling, the dentist will quickly release the lip or tongue-tie so that your child will immediately get to enjoy a wider range of motion.

In just minutes, your toddler’s lip or tongue will no longer be tethered, making it easier to eat the foods they love, practice speaking more clearly, and breathe easier each night. By following a few simple instructions for appropriate aftercare, you can ensure your little one’s lip or tongue-tie does not grow back but instead remains unattached and ready for use.

About the Author
Dr. Lindsey McElligott is a Lexington dentist who earned her dental degree in 2008 from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Offering lip and tongue-tie frenectomies to patients of all ages, she and the team at Lexington Smile Studio are here to make sure your child walks away with a healthier smile as well as greater confidence. Contact us at (781) 861-7645 to discuss your child’s eligibility for a frenectomy.

Uncovering the Truth Behind 5 Myths about Lip and Tongue Tie

Lip and tongue tie are relatively common deformities that are present at birth. Understandably, many parents are concerned about these issues. They may turn to the internet for information, and they are likely to come across some conflicting ideas! How can you uncover the truth about lip and tongue tie? This blog post reveals the reality behind some common myths.

Myth #1: Lip and Tongue Tie Are Harmless

While a little extra tissue in the mouth might not seem like a big deal, lip and tongue ties can actually prove to be quite harmful. During infancy, they make breastfeeding extremely difficult. As a child grows, additional problems may arise, such as oral hygiene difficulties, delays in speech development, and more.

(Of course, it is worth noting that some cases of lip and tongue tie are so minor that they do not require treatment.)

Myth #2: Lip and Tongue Tie Stretch Out

The tissues that cause lip and tongue tie have less than a 1% capacity for stretching. Therefore, you should not expect your child’s condition to resolve itself as they get older, even if you help them perform exercises that are meant to stretch the offending tissues.

Myth #3: Posterior Tongue Tie Is Not Real

An anterior tongue tie occurs toward the front of the mouth, and it is fairly easy for doctors to identify. Posterior tongue ties occur further back in the mouth, and they are more challenging to diagnose. However, they do exist. If you suspect that your child has this condition, bring them to a practitioner who has true expertise in identifying lip and tongue tie.

Myth #4: Everyone Gets Laser Treatment for Lip and Tongue Tie

A frenectomy (lip or tongue tie surgery) performed with a soft tissue laser is the easiest and best way to address cases of lip and tongue tie. However, some practitioners still use surgical scissors and other old-fashioned tools. If you are unsure of whether your child’s would-be treatment provider uses a laser, do not hesitate to ask!

Myth #5: Children Can Adapt to a Lip or Tongue Tie

While kids can learn to partially adapt to the limited oral movements caused by a lip or tongue tie, they will never fully be able to work around all of the problems that stem from their condition. Even into adulthood, they may continue to struggle with oral hygiene, dental health, speech, and other aspects of daily living if their lip or tongue tie remains untreated.

Do not believe myths about lip and tongue tie! If you still have questions about these conditions, speak to a qualified dentist who treats them.

Meet the Practice

Dr. Lindsey McElligott is an experienced dentist who has a special interest in treating young children. She is extensively educated in lip and tongue ties and is proud to provide laser-based treatment for these conditions. If you would like to learn more about her and how the team at Lexington Smile Studio may be able to serve your family, contact us at 781-861-7645.

The Benefits of Dental Implants: Restoring Function and Aesthetics

Dental implants have become the gold standard for replacing missing teeth, offering a permanent solution that restores both function and aesthetics. Unlike dentures and bridges, dental implants provide a stable and durable foundation for replacement teeth, closely mimicking the appearance and function of natural teeth. In this article, we will explore the benefits of dental implants and why they are an excellent choice for tooth replacement.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Once the implant has integrated with the bone, a custom-made crown is attached to the implant, providing a natural-looking and functional replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or a full arch of teeth.

Benefits of Dental Implants

1. Natural Appearance: Dental implants are designed to look and feel like your natural teeth. The custom-made crowns are matched to the color and shape of your existing teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result.
2. Stability and Durability: Dental implants are anchored securely in the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for replacement teeth. This stability allows for normal biting and chewing function without the worry of dentures slipping or shifting.
3. Bone Preservation: Dental implants help preserve the jawbone by stimulating bone growth and preventing bone loss. This is a significant advantage over dentures and bridges, which do not provide the same level of bone stimulation.
4. Improved Oral Health: Dental implants do not require the alteration of adjacent teeth, as is necessary with traditional bridges. This helps preserve the health of your remaining natural teeth.
5. Longevity: With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last for many years, often a lifetime. This makes them a cost-effective long-term solution for tooth replacement.
6. Enhanced Comfort: Dental implants are designed to function like natural teeth, providing a comfortable and secure fit. Unlike dentures, there are no sore spots or irritation.
7. Improved Speech: Missing teeth and ill-fitting dentures can affect your speech. Dental implants provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth, allowing you to speak clearly and confidently.
8. Easy Maintenance: Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential to maintain the health and longevity of your implants.

The Dental Implant Process

The process of getting dental implants involves several steps and can take several months to complete. Here is an overview of the typical process:

1. Initial Consultation: During your initial consultation, your dentist will evaluate your oral health, take X-rays, and discuss your treatment goals. This is an opportunity to determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants and to create a customized treatment plan.
2. Preparation: If necessary, preparatory procedures such as bone grafting or tooth extraction may be performed to ensure a stable foundation for the implants.
3. Implant Placement: The dental implant is surgically placed into the jawbone. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and sedation options may be available for added comfort.
4. Osseointegration: After the implant is placed, a process called osseointegration occurs. This is when the implant fuses with the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for the replacement tooth. This process can take several months.
5. Abutment Placement: Once osseointegration is complete, an abutment is attached to the implant. The abutment serves as a connector between the implant and the replacement tooth.
6. Crown Placement: The final step is the placement of the custom-made crown. The crown is designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and natural-looking result.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Proper aftercare and maintenance are essential to ensure the success and longevity of your dental implants. Here are some tips for maintaining your implants:

• Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.
• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to monitor the health of your implants and surrounding tissues.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Avoid chewing on hard foods and objects, such as ice and hard candy, to prevent damage to the implants and crowns.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking can negatively impact the healing process and the long-term success of dental implants. If you smoke, consider quitting to improve your oral health.

Conclusion

Dental implants offer a permanent and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, providing numerous benefits for both function and aesthetics. With their natural appearance, stability, and durability, dental implants can enhance your quality of life and restore your confidence. If you are considering tooth replacement options, consult with your dentist to determine if dental implants are the right choice for you. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can provide a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.