districtsmiles

District Smiles Infection Control Protocol and Procedure Changes

ceo@xpresspromotion.com (Shawn Kimmel) — Wed, 19 Aug 2020 19:05:01 GMT

The safety and well-being of our patients, staff and community is of utmost importance to us.

20 Things You Should Know About Your Oral Health and the Coronavirus

ceo@xpresspromotion.com (Shawn Kimmel) — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 12:45:17 GMT

The more we learn about COVID-19 (corona-virus disease 2019), the more effective we will be in flattening the curve of new cases. That’s why it’s critical to understand the link between your oral health and overall physical health. In this way, you can more effectively safeguard yourself and your family against COVID-19. Here are 20 thing you should know:

1. Toothbrush-Sharing Can Be Hazardous to Your Health: The coronavirus along with other viruses, bacteria and harmful microorganisms are contained in saliva. When you share a toothbrush, you are introducing another person’s saliva into your body through the mouth. These germs can spread to your nose, throat and lungs resulting in colds, flus, cold sores, strep, hepatitis C and more. (Note: The AIDS virus is not transmitted through saliva.) Even if you are following all other sanitary guidelines during the COVID19 pandemic, if you are sharing a toothbrush with another in your household, you are making yourself vulnerable to infection. And if your immune system is compromised, it’s even riskier. Always use your own toothbrush

2. How to Keep Your Toothbrush Safe: To clean your toothbrush after brushing, thoroughly rinse it until it is free of any particles. It may seem logical to soak your toothbrush in a disinfecting mouthwash or solution, but this is not advisable. The reason is, under certain conditions, soaking your toothbrush could actually spread germs rather than kill them. And there is no need to run your toothbrush through a dishwasher, put it in a microwave or use an ultraviolet device. Doing so could damage the toothbrush. Just rinse the toothbrush thoroughly and let it air-dry in an upright position. Don’t store your toothbrush in a case or cover it as that would encourage bacterial growth. If you are storing your toothbrush with others in a holder, avoid letting the brushes touch each other.

3. Toothbrushing Best Practices to Protect Your Health: Adhering to best practices for toothbrushing will further help to protect your health against viruses and illness. For starters, wash your hands for 20 seconds before brushing or flossing; this prevents spreading germs to your toothbrush and mouth. Since bacteria enters the air as you brush, practice social distancing while brushing by standing six feet from others. If you use an electric toothbrush or an oral irrigating product like a WaterPik, wipe the handles with a disinfectant before using. Disinfectants which guard against the coronavirus can be found online. Alternately, you could cover the handle before using a with clear plastic bags like a sandwich bag and discard it after use.

4. In Case of a Dental Emergency During COVID-19: To limit potential exposure to others with COVID-19, dentists are rescheduling elective care such as routine checkups and oral hygiene appointments. A dental emergency, however, needs immediate attention as it puts the patient at risk. Such emergencies include oral infections which cause swelling and severe pain or a knocked-out tooth. If you suffer a sudden dental emergency, contact your dentist immediately rather than visit an urgent care center or hospital ER. The American Dental Association has asked dental offices to stay open to treat such cases rather than have them seek care from our already-strained healthcare system. Your dentist will advise you on what to do next.

5. Oral Health and Overall Health Go Hand-in-Hand: To protect and preserve your overall health particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s vital to have good oral health. That’s because your mouth is a portal to your body. A bacterial infection, if left untreated, can spread to other portions of the body and cause systemic illness. Gum disease, for example, has been linked to an increased incidence of heart disease and stroke. Conversely, systemic disease, such as a blood disorder, can manifest in gums which are pale and bleed. Various factors can reduce the risk of oral disease including proper oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, a diet rich in nutrients and other lifestyle improvements.

6. Poor Oral Health Compromises the Immune System: An experiment by a British dentist illustrated the impact of oral health on the immune system. In this experiment, the dentist brushed only half of his teeth for two weeks. After the two-week period, the gums around the teeth which hadn’t been brushed had developed a mild infection. The mild infection created inflammation in the doctor’s entire body. Had it been left untreated, the chronic inflammation could have ultimately compromised the immune system, weakened the body’s defenses against illness and increased the risk of disease including type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s. If you’re experiencing signs of oral infection, such as swelling or pain, call your dentist immediately for assistance.

7. Oral Health in Seniors: Why They Require Extra Care: Senior citizens, those individuals 65 and older (according to Medicare), are more prone to oral health issues. Dry mouth, for instance, caused by medications, certain diseases or cancer treatment, reduces the flow of bacteria-fighting saliva leaving the senior more vulnerable to illness. Dentures that do not fit correctly can lead to inflammation while gum recession exposes enamel-less tooth roots and increases the risk of tooth decay. Arthritic hands or fingers could make proper and thorough tooth-brushing more difficult. Seniors are advised to brush twice-daily with a fluoride toothpaste and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash one to two times per day. If you experience a dental emergency such as severe pain, swelling or inflammation, call your dentist immediately for assistance.

8. Why Moms Say “Eat Your Vegetables”: If your mom told you to eat your veggies, she had good reason: vegetables contain nutrients essential to excellent oral and overall health. Root vegetables, for instance, help your body create vitamin A which it needs for strong teeth. And chewing raw carrots, celery and other root vegetables gives the gums healthy stimulation and also prompts the production of saliva which cleanses the mouth. Leafy greens, such as spinach, chard and lettuce, provide essential vitamins and minerals which promotes good oral health. If you want better dental health and overall well-being, eat your veggies.

9. Have Kids Who Vape? It’s Just as Bad for Their Teeth as Smoking: Vaping is on the rise among teens. A 2018 survey of over 44,000 students revealed that more than one-third of 12th-grade students vaped, up nearly 10% from the previous year. Although e-cigarettes omit tobacco, they still contain nicotine in a vapor riddled with toxic particles. Besides systemic damage, the nicotine in vaping impairs the flow of blood, and therefore nutrients, to the teeth and gums. This causes gum recession which increases the risk of cavities and tooth loss. Nicotine also reduces the amount of bacteria-fighting saliva in the mouth which leads to tooth decay. And, nicotine appears to increase the risk of gum disease. If your kids vape, you’ve probably already tried to get them to stop. We urge you to try again. It’s the last thing they need during the coronavirus pandemic.

10. 5 Ways to Protect Your Child’s Oral Heath: No doubt you are doing all you can to keep your family safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are five tips to help you protect your child’s oral health: (1) Be sure your child maintains regular oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily. With your help, children should start flossing as soon as their teeth start moving close together. (2) Watch their diet and restrict their sugar intake to prevent cavities. (3) For children who suck their thumbs, this could be from stress. Talk to them to see if they have concerns. (4) Teeth-grinding during sleep can also be a sign of stress. Try simple relaxation techniques like reading to your child before sleep. (5) If your child has a dental emergency, such as swelling or pain, call your dentist immediately for assistance.

11. Foods to Safeguard Your Oral Health: Amid safety concerns about the coronavirus pandemic, another step one can take to protect their heath is protecting the health of their teeth and gums. In addition to proper at-home oral hygiene, such as daily brushing and flossing, good nutrition goes a long way to achieving good oral health. Eating foods that are rich in calcium, for example, helps build strong teeth and bones. You’ll find calcium in foods such as dairy products, green leafy vegetables and almonds. The mineral phosphorous, which can be found in lean meats, dairy, eggs and other foods, also strengthens teeth. And vitamin C, which benefits gum health, is available in citrus fruit, spinach, broccoli, peppers, potatoes and other foods. Eat well and stay safe!

12. Brushing Your Teeth the Right Way: You may not realize it, but there’s a bit more to toothbrushing than meets the eye. Why does it matter? Because brushing correctly reduces the harmful bacteria in your mouth which protects your health. And brushing the right way begins with picking the right brush. To get under the gumline, you need soft bristles because they bend; hard bristles are too stiff. There’s no need to scrub; gently brushing will clear away the plaque without traumatizing the gums. And don’t move the brush back and forth from side to side—instead, start at the gum and go up and down in a circular motion. Be sure to include the gumline by holding the brush at a 45-degree angle at the gumline. Most of all, brush at least two minutes twice a day. Brushing for two minutes or longer clears away more bacteria-ridden plaque.

13. Vitamin C Fights Infections and Protects Against Gum Disease: Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for maintaining good health, particularly during a global pandemic like COVID-19. A series of medical studies conducted on animals concluded Vitamin C “plays a role in preventing, shortening and alleviating diverse infections” with similar effects on humans. For instance, in controlled studies, vitamin C alleviated and shortened the length of the common cold on human beings and had “significant effects against pneumonia” which is a dangerous complication of COVID-19. As regards oral health, Vitamin C supports gum health, protects against gum disease and prevents teeth from loosening. Foods rich in Vitamin C include oranges, lemons, other citrus fruit and leafy greens. If you are interested in taking Vitamin C supplements, consult your healthcare provider first.

14. Oral Health Tips for Diabetics: Unfortunately for diabetes sufferers, they are more inclined than others to develop oral infections and gum disease due to an excess of glucose (sugar) in their blood. Diabetics also experience more severe infections than patients without periodontal disease. These people need to be especially careful during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have diabetes, here are some tips for safeguarding your oral health. First, keep blood sugar levels as close to your goal as possible. Next, follow your doctor’s recommended diet. As for oral hygiene, brush your teeth in the morning upon awakening, right before bed, after all meals and after all snacks containing sugar or starch. Daily flossing will further help reduce harmful plaque which can lead to infection. Be sure to tell your dentist about your medical condition and history and follow all of his or her recommendations. If oral problems develop, call your dentist right away for direction.

15. Warning Signs of Serious Dental Infections: Even in the best of times, a dental infection, left untreated, can be potentially life-threatening. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a dental infection should be treated immediately. The warning signs of a dental infection include a throbbing pain in a tooth or jaw, neck or ear; facial swelling, sensitivity to oral pressures, bad breath and fever. Warning signs that a dental infection is spreading to the rest of the body include headache, swelling that impairs swallowing or breathing, dark urine, rapid pulse, chills, diarrhea and vomiting. See your dentist if you have a fever, swelling, difficulty swallowing, severe tooth pain or red gums. Seek immediate medical help if you have chest pains, confusion, seizures or convulsions, ongoing vomiting, painful urination or a high fever.

16. Sensitive Teeth? When to See a Dentist: As Americans navigate their way through the COVID-19 pandemic, they need to be especially diligent about protecting their health, including their oral health. If you have relatively sensitive teeth, the cause could be as simple as the foods you eat. Some 40 million Americans experience tooth sensitivity when eating or drinking certain types of food or beverages, including soda, hot coffee and tomatoes. But if you suddenly have increased sensitivity in your teeth or in one specific tooth, this could be a sign of serious infection. For instance, you may have an undetected cracked tooth which allows bacteria into the tooth and could lead to infection. Left untreated, the crack could get worse along with the infection. Dental offices are open during the COVID-19 outbreak to handle dental emergencies. Call your dentist immediately when experiencing unusually high tooth sensitivity or pain.

17. Why Dental Offices Are Open During the COVID-19 Pandemic: At last count, 95% of Americans have been told to stay home to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. Nonessential businesses have also been closed. Why, then, are some dental offices open? Although the American Dental Association (ADA) has asked dentists to reschedule patients for routine elective services, the ADA has also asked dentists to provide emergency care to divert dental patients from overburdened hospital emergency rooms. That means anyone with a dental emergency can immediately call their dentist to address oral swelling, nonstop bleeding, a broken tooth, a knocked-out tooth, tooth or jaw pain, painful or swollen gums, stitches removal or replacement and adjusting dentures for cancer patients undergoing treatment.

18. Bad Breath: Why You Should See Your Dentist: Bad breath can be more than an embarrassment, it can also be a symptom of disease. People with underlying health conditions are particularly at risk during the COVID-19 pandemic. For that reason, it’s important to take bad breath seriously. Some of the causes of bad breath include food, tobacco use, inadequate oral hygiene habits, medications and dry mouth. On the more serious side, bad breath can also be caused by chronic nose, sinus or throat infections and serious diseases including cancer or a metabolic dysfunction. If are you suffering from bad breath, try brushing your teeth after eating and include your tongue. Also use dental floss and drink plenty of water. If the bad breath continues, call your dentist for an evaluation. Dental offices are operating during the COVID-19 pandemic.

19. What to Do If Your Child Has a Dental Emergency: If your child has a dental emergency, don’t panic—dental offices are providing emergency treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Call your dentist as soon as emergency strikes and apply these tips to assist your child until their dental appointment: (1) For a knocked-out tooth unaccompanied by serious injury, store the tooth in milk to bring with you to the dentist. He or she may be able to re-implant the tooth in its socket. (2) If your child cracks a tooth, have them rinse their mouth with warm water; keep swelling down with cold compresses on the face. (3) For tooth pain, try having your child rinse with warm water and use floss to dislodge any food. If pain persists, call the dentist. Dental emergencies left untreated can lead to infection or could be a sign of infection. That’s why it’s important to address them immediately.

20. Reduce the Risk of Gum and Heart Disease with Exercise During COVID-19: We all know the virtues of exercises for maintaining good health. Now healthcare professionals are recommending exercise for good oral health as well. The American Academy of Periodontology (the branch of dentistry concerning gums) reports that people who are at a healthy weight and very physically fit have a lower occurrence of severe gum disease. Gum disease, i.e., chronic inflammation of the gums and bone around the teeth, causes tooth loss, and is linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and others. Therefore, reducing the risk of gum disease reduces the risk of developing serious illnesses related to gum disease. Talk to your healthcare provider for recommendations on indoor exercises to be done during the COVID-19 lockdown.

In addition to caring for your oral health, keep yourself informed on and follow all CDC recommendations and direction from your government officials. Stay safe!

Do You Have a Dental Emergency?

ceo@xpresspromotion.com (Shawn Kimmel) — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 20:14:46 GMT

If you think you are experiencing a dental emergency, here are some tips and advice on what to do.

Emergencies happen. Whether you have tooth pain, swelling or your smile needs an urgent fix, you may need to make an appointment with a dentist right away.

Four Causes of Tooth Pain and How to Handle Them

As you probably know, toothaches don’t go away on their own. Instead, they get worse, causing pain, swelling and discomfort. All tooth pain requires a dental exam to get to the bottom of the situation. In the meantime, here are four common causes of toothaches with tips for temporary relief:

01. CAVITIES: Cavities, left untreated, cause inflammation and pain. Avoid hot and cold foods and wipe clove oil over the gums in the painful area. Over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief.

02. ABSCESSES: An abscess starts as an infection in the inner tooth which causes pain and swelling. Treat this as described above for cavities.

03. IMPACTED TOOTH: A tooth that has not broken through the gum is “impacted” and causes pain and swelling. Use cold packs, over-the counter pain relievers or a numbing gel.

04. IMPACT INJURIES: A blow to the face or biting on a hard surface can fracture, crack or loosen a tooth, resulting in pain. Apply cold compresses to your cheek to lessen the pain.

How to Get a Rapid Repair of Your Smile

When accidents happen to you and your smile, here is how different cosmetic dental emergencies are typically addressed:

» KNOCKED-OUT TEETH: This procedure may improve the rate of success in repositioning a knocked-out tooth: Gently pick up the tooth by its chewing surface (not the root). Don’t try to clean it. Store it in your cheek or immerse it in a container with milk or saliva. Come see us within 45 minutes.

» CHIPPED OR BROKEN TEETH: Many broken or chipped teeth can be repaired on the spot with tooth-colored dental bonding material. If needed, we can then schedule you for further repairs at a later date.

» BROKEN, DISLODGED OR LOST CROWNS: If your crown has broken, we can make you a temporary crown to replace it. If your crown has come loose but still fits correctly, we can simply re-cement it in place. Both procedures are fast repairs to your smile.

» BROKEN BRIDGES: A broken bridge can make it hard to eat and, if it’s in a visible location, cause you to hide your smile. Exposed teeth may also be sensitive to heat, cold and pressure. In an emergency visit, we can protect your exposed teeth with temporary crowns. Besides repairing your smile, treating cosmetic dental emergencies quickly also protects your oral health. A cracked, broken or chipped tooth, for instance, could be subject to further damage or infection and you could possibly lose the tooth.

COVID-19 Update and Why We're Open

ceo@xpresspromotion.com (Shawn Kimmel) — Wed, 18 Mar 2020 20:29:56 GMT

Staying Safe During an Outbreak

As health officials seek to contain the coronavirus outbreak, unprecedented safety measures have been issued for our protection. We want to reassure you that District Smiles is also taking extraordinary measures to protect your health and well-being.

Your Protection Against Exposure

As a healthcare provider, we are held to higher sanitary standards by law. We follow all OSHA requirements including fully sanitizing exam rooms and equipment and wearing protective gear such as medical gloves and masks. Nonetheless, due to the gravity of this situation, we’ve exceeded even those standards by taking these additional precautions:

Screening Travelers: We require patients who have traveled in the last two weeks to complete a questionnaire to detect any coronavirus exposure and/or symptoms. We also keep thermometers on hand to check temperatures for additional screening. If there appears to be any risk whatsoever, no matter how remote, we ask the patient to reschedule for a future appointment.
Social Distancing: If we are unable to see patients upon their arrival, we have them wait in their cars until their treatment room is ready. This prevents people from congregating in the waiting area. We also space out appointment times for additional social distancing.
Hourly Wipe-Downs: We disinfect all common areas just about every hour including door handles, counter tops, faucets, sinks, pens, and the coffee machine.
Printed Material Removal: We’ve removed all shared printed material to reduce the chance of exposure.

To further protect you and the community, we’ve prepared this message to alert others to the connection between one’s oral health, immune system and bodily diseases—including viruses¹—and provide additional preventive tips.

Link Between Oral Health, Illness and the Immune System

Your mouth is home to billions of bacteria; some are friendly bacteria while others are harmful. When your oral hygiene regimen is properly done and your immune system is intact, the harmful bacteria is kept in check. However, when oral hygiene habits are poor—including insufficient brushing or flossing and too few professional cleanings—the harmful bacteria is allowed to cause tooth decay and gum disease.²

This tooth decay and gum disease create inflammation which, in turn, damages your gums’ blood vessels and allows bacteria into the bloodstream.³ By its nature, this bacteria not only evades the immune system, it manipulates it so the harmful bacteria can continue to survive.⁴ As your immune system weakens, your susceptibility to diseases like the coronavirus and other infectious illnesses increases.

This harmful bacteria can also trigger other health issues such as cardiovascular disease, heart disease, pneumonia and, for expectant mothers, premature birth and underweight babies.² And, as health officials continue to warn us, the coronavirus is more likely to be contracted by those with underlying medical conditions.⁵

Why We Won't Close Our Doors

Despite our own risk of exposure, we refuse to close our doors amid this healthcare crisis. As a frontline healthcare provider, we firmly believe it’s our responsibility to detect and eliminate those oral issues which threaten your immune system and your ability to ward off infectious diseases including the coronavirus and the flu. It’s our mission to do all we can to preserve and protect your help, in good times and bad.

Warning Signs of Oral Decay and Infection

If you are experiencing any of the following signs of bacterial decay or infection, we strongly recommend you come see Dr. Seifi or one of our other dentists to address the issue:

Severe tooth pain
Swollen face, cheeks or gums
Sensitivity to hot or cold food or beverages
Sensitivity when biting down

For patients who already have a compromised immune system, eradicating oral decay and infection is even more imperative.
Of course, if you have any signs of illness, stay isolated and seek medical attention as warranted by coronavirus health guidelines.

Preventive Oral Hygiene Tips

Here are some oral hygiene tips to reduce the risk of exposure to the coronavirus and other illness in your household:

Use Your Own Toothbrush: The coronavirus is spread through touching a surface or object which contains the virus and then touching your nose or mouth (and possibly the eyes).⁴ Never share a toothbrush with anyone who may have been exposed to the coronavirus or is ill. As a side note, rinsing the toothbrush will not decontaminate it. To be safe, never share a toothbrush for any reason, even with loved ones.⁶
Don’t store toothbrushes in closed containers: Bacterial growth can occur on toothbrushes when they are covered or stored in closed containers.⁶
Don’t share toothpaste: Sharing toothpaste tubes can spread germs. If a member of your household has been exposed to the coronavirus or other communicable disease or is presently ill, give them their own toothpaste tube to use.⁷
Eat Right: The right nutrition supports all of your body’s vital functions including the immune system. Guidelines include eating fruits, whole grains, a variety of vegetables and proteins—such as seafood, lean meat and poultry, eggs, nuts, seeds—and more.⁸ Dietary guidelines can be found on the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services site at www.HHS.gov .
Take Vitamin C: A recent medical study indicates vitamin C helps prevent the common cold and reduces its duration. Moreover, inadequate C increases one’s risk of contracting the flu and makes flu symptoms more severe. As studies continue in vitamin C’s direct effect on the coronavirus, taking this supplement should help support your immune system.⁹

Preventive Vitamin Regimen

Additionally, Dr. Seifi came across the following vitamin regimen which she wanted to pass on to you. It was excerpted from the article “ Nutritional Treatment of the Coronavirus ”¹⁴:

Vitamin C: 1,000 to 2,000 mg, three to four times per day
Vitamin D3/K2: 10,000 IU/100 mcg, once per day or up to three times per day if there are no known kidney or hypercalcemia (above-normal calcium levels) issues
Vitamin A: 10,000 to 25,000 IU daily
Zinc Picolinate: 30 mg, twice daily with food
Selenium: 200 mcg, one to two times daily with food

Stay Calm

Despite the alarming headlines, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the risk of Americans being exposed to the coronavirus is low and that most cases are mild.¹⁰ On our last check, the CDC was reporting 4,226 cases of coronavirus in the U.S.¹¹ amid a population of 329 million.¹² That means just a fraction of one percent of all Americans have the virus right now and it’s likely symptoms are mild. Compare that to CDC estimates of at least 36 million U.S. cases of the flu over the 2019 – 2020 flu season (March 1, 2019 to March 7, 2020) with a minimum of 370,000 million flu hospitalizations.¹³

In the meantime, continue to follow CDC guidelines and if you are experiencing signs of oral decay or infection, do not ignore them. Come see us to get it rapidly addressed and eradicated as a health risk.

Regards,
Dr. Linder and the District Smiles staff

1. Colgate: “ Eight Common Oral Infections ”
2. Mayo Clinic: “ Oral health: A window to your overall health ”
3. Johnson & Johnson: “ 4 Fascinating Things Scientists Know About the Billions of Bacteria in Your Mouth ”
4. Science Daily: Smile: “ Gingivitis bacteria manipulate your immune system so they can thrive in your gums ”
5. Harvard Health Publishing: “ Coronavirus Resource Center ”
6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: “ Use & Handling of Toothbrushes ”
7. University of Rochester Medical Center: “ Toothbrush Tactics: Give Germs the Brush-Off ”
8. U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services: “ Dietary Guidelines for Americans ”
9. MedicineNet: “ Can Vitamin C Prevent and Treat the Corona Virus? ”
10. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: “ Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) ”
11. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: “ Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the U.S. ”
12. The United States Census Bureau: “ U.S. and World Population Clock ”
13. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: “ 2019-2020 U.S. Flu Season: Preliminary Burden Estimates ”
14. These recommendations/statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you have any health condition or are taking any medications, or are pregnant or nursing, please consult your healthcare practitioner before taking these or any nutritional supplements.

What District Smiles Patients Are Saying.

ceo@xpresspromotion.com (Shawn Kimmel) — Sun, 19 May 2019 20:08:07 GMT

Actual Patient Review

We appreciate and value when our patients take the time to write about their dental experience in our Washington D.C. dentist office.

"Both Dr. Ibraheem and his staff were very professional and attentive. He explained everything very thoroughly and made sure I understood the treatments' necessity and scope. William at the front desk also explained payments and insurance coverage clearly. Scheduling and appointment times were fast and easy. Everyone in this office is doing a great job making patients feel comfortable and in the know." - J.P.

At District Smiles our experienced team strives to provide the best in patient dental care. If you are searching for a new dentist in the District, contact us today to schedule your next visit by calling 202-868-6431 .

What are the Benefits of Using Porcelain Veneers?

ceo@xpresspromotion.com (Shawn Kimmel) — Sun, 19 May 2019 20:08:06 GMT

Porcelain veneers can be very beneficial for a range of patients. Read on to learn about the benefits of porcelain veneers.

If you're looking for a fool-proof way to transform your smile, porcelain veneers are your answer.

Not only is the process of porcelain veneers simple, non-invasive and comfortable, but it offers almost instant results in very little time.

There's a reason why porcelain veneers of are one the most sought-after dental treatments today! They offer real, tangible results.

Learn more about the benefits of porcelain veneers and the process in this article...

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Comprised of dental porcelain, veneers are essentially thin shells which are shaped like your natural teeth. They are then securely bonded to them.

Each individual veneer is bonded to the just front surface of each tooth with specialized dental cement .

Veneers are custom-made to suit the natural color, shape, and size of your teeth, so you don't have to worry about them not looking natural.

In today's day and age, modern porcelain veneers are made to reflect light as natural tooth enamel would. This ensures they look as natural as possible.

6 Undeniable Benefits of Porcelain Veneers

Yes, custom-made porcelain veneers are on the higher-end side of dental cosmetic procedures. But most people would tell you it's worth every single penny!

If you've been considering porcelain veneers for a while now, here are 6 benefits to help sway your decision.

1. Veneers are a Versatile Treatment

Porcelain veneers are a little more conservative than dental crowns in that your natural tooth doesn't need to be removed or shaved down. It is only enhanced by the application of the veneer.

As such, this less invasive cosmetic procedure offers are a range of versatile benefits - helping to conceal a number of dental issues. Porcelain veneers work to cover up dental mishaps such as teeth gaps, overlaps, teeth staining, cracks and discoloration.

The great news is that you don't have to transform every single tooth for a perfectly uniform smile. If you have just one tooth that needs correcting, a porcelain veneer can be custom-made to cover up imperfections.

If you're looking to transform your smile entirely, just a few visits to your dentist's office can offer you the change you're looking for.

2. Veneers Offer an Instant Transformation

One single application of porcelain veneers is almost equivalent to undergoing three separate dental procedures. Today, you can skip these three different procedures and undergo just one to transform your smile.

This means that porcelain veneers can offer an instant transformation in just one dental visit.

Based on the change you're looking for, porcelain veneers can make your teeth larger, your smile more symmetrical, whiter and brighter. If you're happy with your smile, you can simply choose to match your veneers to your natural teeth.

3. Enjoy Natural-Looking Results

The quality of natural tooth enamel is translucent. This means that when light bounces off the top layer of your teeth, it reflects the underlying material of dentin.

The translucent nature of your teeth gives them a natural sheen, which is what porcelain veneer mimics. This makes porcelain veneer practically indistinguishable from your natural teeth.

You can enjoy the benefits of the natural-looking, flawless smile you're looking for with porcelain veneers.

4. Veneers are Stain-Resistant

One of the top benefits of porcelain material is that it's strongly stain-resistant. That's right, your new teeth will resist staining or discoloration for years to come after your dental procedure.

You can maintain those pearly whites while enjoying all the tea, coffee, and wine you could wish for. However, keep in mind that there may be a short period after your procedure that you may need to avoid these while the porcelain veneers settle.

5. They Offer a Long-Lasting Solution

As you can imagine, stain-resistant porcelain veneers offer you a long-lasting solution to transforming your smile.

With adequate teeth maintenance, dental care, and regular check-ups, your new veneers can last 10-15 years or longer.

In contrast to quick-fix procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers are a true value-for-money procedure.

Porcelain is also a very strong, robust material so you often don't need to worry about chipping or cracking teeth for years to come.

6. Smile With Confidence

Finally, what better feeling is there than smiling from ear-to-ear with complete confidence? To us, this feeling is priceless.

Porcelain veneers are a great way to build up your confidence with a smile that is symmetrical, bright, and beautiful.

It's only natural that when you feel positive about your smile, you're likely to feel positive about yourself as a whole. If you're looking to restore a little self-confidence, porcelain veneers are the way to go!

Ideal Candidates for Porcelain Veneers

As the years pass by your teeth undergo tremendous amounts of pressure, exposed to all kinds of foods, bacteria, and toxins.

If you've tried teeth whitening but your teeth persistently default to a dull, dingy color, you may want to consider porcelain veneers.

While porcelain veneers may not be the best option for everyone, you are an ideal candidate for this procedure if:

Your teeth are strong and healthy
You do not suffer from gum disease
You make an effort to practice good oral hygiene
You're looking to improve or transform your smile
You're willing to maintain your smile with good dental hygiene and regular check-ups

However, if your teeth or gums are not in the best state, you can still consult with your dentist about the best plan-of-action to allow for veneers.

You may need to undergo a particular dental procedure such as a root canal, dental fillings, dental shaping or dental crowns beforehand.

Looking To Transform Your Smile?

At District Smiles , we understand just how important your smile is to you. We pride ourselves on offering cosmetic dental procedures to help you achieve the self-confidence you deserve. Please get in touch with your team at District Smiles today to schedule your consultation.

What Are Veneers?

ceo@xpresspromotion.com (Shawn Kimmel) — Tue, 14 May 2019 18:40:13 GMT

What are veneers? Why do people get veneers? Read on to learn everything you need to know about veneers.

Many of us find ourselves looking in the mirror and disliking our smiles. Whether you're unsatisfied with the shape or color of your teeth, you want something to change.

Cosmetic dentistry offers one possible solution, known as veneers. These are thin porcelain covers the dentist will adhere to a patient's teeth.

This is a cosmetic procedure, so it won't be covered by insurance . The investment can put a real dent in your wallet.

If you have the budget and want a way to repair your smile, veneers might be for you. What are veneers? Why do people get them?

Continue reading to find out this and much more before you get veneers.

What Are Veneers Used For?

Veneers are used for a variety of different cosmetic purposes . Many people choose veneers to correct minor issues in their smile.

These include minor misalignments, discoloration, fractures, or chips. People may also use veneers as a less invasive alternative to braces or crowns. They can be used to correct gaps or misalignments too minor for braces.

Veneers are designed to look like natural teeth. They're thin covering adhered to the front part of the tooth.

Your dentist will help you decide on a few different options. You'll need to decide on the shape, color, and material.

Choosing a Material

Dental veneers can be made from either porcelain or a composite resin. Each material has its own pros and cons.

Depending on your personal needs and goals, your dentist will help you decide on which to choose.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain is the most common material used to make dental veneers. This type of veneer can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on your lifestyle and dental care routine.

Depending on where you live, they can cost anywhere from $800 to even $4,000 for each tooth! That's a lot, I know.

The investment can be tough, so you should be sure you want them before you get them.

Compared to crowns and caps, porcelain veneers are easier to place and maintain. They don't stain easily. They have a more natural appearance.

Composite Resin Veneers

Composite resin is a tooth-colored material traditionally used in fillings, crowns, and more. This option costs significantly less than porcelain veneers.

The process of placing a composite resin veneer requires less tooth enamel removal. They require less attention from your dentist. They may take only one dental visit to put them in place.

Compared to porcelain veneers, they may wear more easily. However, they are easy to repair.

Veneers Don't Last Forever

If you plan to get veneers for any of a variety of reasons, be aware they won't last forever. Even if they last you 20 years, you'll need to have them replaces.

Depending on your lifestyle, you may put more or less strain on the veneers. They may not be a good option for those who grind their teeth or clench their jaw.

This can cause the veneers to loosen over time.

If you wish to get veneers anyway, you may need to wear a dental guard at night.

Once the veneers are in place, the process can't be undone. The dentist needs to remove a small amount of enamel from your tooth. The enamel cannot be added back.

Enamel is the hardest tissue in the human body. This vital tissue protects your teeth during daily use, including chewing and biting.

Enamel contains no living cells. Once the enamel is damaged, the body has no way of repairing or replacing it.

Take Care of Your Veneers

Staying on top of your dental health is vital. Just like natural teeth, veneers can be subject to stains and wear.

You can still get cavities under and around your veneers.

You should brush and floss your teeth just as you would without your veneers. Consider using a non-abrasive toothpaste. This will keep the veneers in good condition.

You might wish to limit food and drinks that will stain your teeth . This includes certain juices, wines, and coffee.

If you smoke, you should be aware of how smoking can lead to yellow teeth.

The veneers certainly won't last forever. Proper dental hygiene will help them last much longer.

Just One Tooth?

Veneers can be a costly investment. If you are satisfied with your smile, except that one chipped tooth, you might not want to do all your teeth.

You don't have to place veneers on every tooth in your mouth. You can do one tooth, two teeth, or more.

This all depends on your own personal needs and budget.

Some people just wish to correct a chipped or fractured tooth. As an alternative to a crown or cap, you may choose to place a veneer.

Discuss Your Options

Before you make a decision, discuss your options with your dentist. Think about what your goals are.

Would you be better off with a crown or cap? Your dentist can help you decide on the best treatment options for your needs.

Before you get veneers, your teeth and gums need to be healthy. Your dentist may decide to treat any disease or decay you might have.

Once you decide to get veneers, your dentist might recommend certain routine treatments. You should see the dentist regularly even if you don't have veneers.

If you have veneers, you should see your dentist once every six months. They'll clean and polish your teeth to make sure they last longer.

Getting Ready for Veneers

What are veneers? They're simply tooth colored covers used to correct or repair minor cosmetic issues.

If you want to improve your smile, veneers may be a great option for you. Talk with your dentist to find out more about veneers. They can help you decide on materials, colors, and more.

Veneers can be a costly investment, especially if you don't plan for it. Your dentist will help you figure out your payment options.

If you're interested in getting veneers, take some time to save and mull it over. Check out what our patients have to say about us. District Smiles can help you get the smile you want.