It is important to protect the outer layers of your teeth and the surrounding tissue in order to prevent tooth sensitivity. Sensitive teeth are easily irritated and can be very painful when exposed to certain elements, such as heat and cold, that easily send nerve signals to the center of your teeth. The following conditions and materials that wear away the protective coverings of your teeth can cause sensitivity by exposing the dentin and roots.
RECEDING GUMS
Gum tissue protects the roots of the teeth, but certain conditions, such as periodontal disease, can cause the gums to move away from the teeth. This leaves the roots susceptible to irritation, which can cause tooth pain and sensitivity.
ACIDIC FOODS AND DRINKS
Highly acidic foods and drinks (citrus fruits, lentils, olives, tomatoes, fruit juice, soda) can eat away at the enamel on the teeth and lead to sensitivity by exposing the dentin beneath it. There are microscopic holes in the dentin that allow the tooth nerves to be stimulated and cause pain. After consuming an acidic food or drink, neutralizing the acids by eating or drinking neutral substances like cheese or milk will help prevent the teeth from being affected by the acid.
WHITENING PRODUCTS
Some whiteners with peroxide-based bleaching solutions can contribute to tooth sensitivity. If you are interested in whitening your teeth, it is recommended that you speak with your dentist about the best product for you. Dr. Mann at Elite Dental Mann DDS offers a variety of teeth whitening treatments and can help determine the ideal whitening procedure for you.
TOO FREQUENT USE OF MOUTHWASH
The acids found in most mouth washes can make teeth sensitive or irritate teeth that are already sensitive. Although it may be nice to have minty fresh breath after each meal, stick to using mouthwash only once or twice per day to avoid tooth sensitivity.
If you are experiencing sensitive teeth or any dental pain, Dr. Mann at Elite Dental Mann DDS is available to diagnose and treat your condition. To schedule your consultation or find out more information, please call us at (559)797-4355.
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Friday, April 3, 2015
PORCELAIN VENEERS
PORCELAIN VENEERS
There are many different dental procedures to whiten, straighten, and otherwise improve a person’s smile, but there is only one procedure that will treat almost all aesthetic problems: porcelain veneers. Whether your teeth are discolored, stained, chipped, broken, gapped, or crooked, porcelain veneers will correct your concern.
DISCOLORED AND STAINED TEETH
Although porcelain veneers are not often solely used for superficial concerns, such as discoloration and stains, they can whiten the smile if desired. Patients usually have a more prominent issue to correct and choose to have the veneers customized for teeth whitening in addition to closing their gaps or camouflaging a broken tooth. Since veneers are often placed on the front six or eight “smiling” teeth, they can make the smile look naturally whiter without the need to whiten the surrounding teeth. If the patient is only getting a few veneers placed and they would also like a brighter smile overall, Dr. Mann at Elite Dental Mann DDS will recommend teeth whitening prior to placing the veneers.
CHIPPED AND BROKEN TEETH
Since veneers are thin sheets of porcelain that fit over the front of the tooth, they can disguise virtually any imperfection. A single veneer is a great option to disguise a chip or crack in the tooth. Dental bonding is an alternative to fixing chipped teeth, but bonding can stain over time and will likely need to be replaced after several years. Porcelain veneers are very strong, durable, and resistant to staining. They can last up to two decades without the need for repair or replacement.
CROOKED AND GAPPED TEETH
Invisalign and braces may straighten crooked teeth, but they cannot change the shape or length of the teeth like porcelain veneers can. Patients with “gummy” smiles can have their teeth instantly lengthened to provide a more balanced appearance to the smile. Teeth that are sharp and pointed are also instantly corrected for an even more beautiful result. The shape of each veneer is customized so that they can fit the natural tooth, closing any gaps and camouflaging any other imperfections.
Porcelain veneers are truly an all-encompassing solution for those who desire a complete smile makeover or for those who have more than one concern about the appearance of their smile. If you are interested in this procedure, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Mann at Elite Dental Mann DDS by calling (55)797-4355.
Friday, March 13, 2015
MOUTH AND BODY CONNECTION
Not only can a beautiful smile help brighten your face; it can also be a sign of overall good health. When you brush and floss on a daily basis, as well as keep your regular check-ups with your dentist, you are helping to prevent multiple issues from arising. The following are some of the ways that healthy teeth are linked to your body’s general health.
Boost in Self-Confidence: Poor oral hygiene can lead to bad breath, which can be embarrassing and lower an individual’s self-esteem. Proper care to clean the teeth, gums, and tongue can reduce the occurrence of bad breath and increase confidence.
Possible Lowered Risk of Heart Disease: There are some studies showing that gum disease may be linked to heart disease, blockages of blood vessels, and strokes. Proper flossing can help reduce gum disease.
Helps Keep Blood Sugar Stable in Diabetics: Those who suffer from diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease as they aren’t able to fight off infection easily. Therefore, maintaining healthy gums is essential in preventing further oral health issues.
It is highly encouraged that you visit your dentist on a regular basis in order to keep your teeth, gums, and body healthy. If you’re concerned about the health and/or appearance of your teeth, Dr. Mann at Elite Dental Mann DDS offers a wide variety of procedures to improve virtually any oral condition. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Mann, please call (559)797-4355.
Boost in Self-Confidence: Poor oral hygiene can lead to bad breath, which can be embarrassing and lower an individual’s self-esteem. Proper care to clean the teeth, gums, and tongue can reduce the occurrence of bad breath and increase confidence.
Possible Lowered Risk of Heart Disease: There are some studies showing that gum disease may be linked to heart disease, blockages of blood vessels, and strokes. Proper flossing can help reduce gum disease.
Helps Keep Blood Sugar Stable in Diabetics: Those who suffer from diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease as they aren’t able to fight off infection easily. Therefore, maintaining healthy gums is essential in preventing further oral health issues.
It is highly encouraged that you visit your dentist on a regular basis in order to keep your teeth, gums, and body healthy. If you’re concerned about the health and/or appearance of your teeth, Dr. Mann at Elite Dental Mann DDS offers a wide variety of procedures to improve virtually any oral condition. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Mann, please call (559)797-4355.
Friday, March 6, 2015
WHAT TO EAT (AND AVOID) FOR HEALTHY TEETH
Our bodies need food to provide nourishment and energy, making food an essential part of everyday life. Although many people know that what they eat has a major impact on the health of their bodies, many do not realize that it also has a major impact on the health of their teeth. In addition to brushing and flossing, including the following healthy foods in your diet and limiting your consumption of the tooth-damaging foods listed here can help maintain healthy teeth.
EAT
Foods rich in essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, protect enamel and promote remineralization (replacement of minerals) in teeth.
Low-fat milk and cheese
Mushrooms
Dark, leafy veggies
Fish and tofu
Crunchy foods with a high water content put your chompers to work and stimulate the production of saliva while gently removing plaque from the surfaces.
Apples
Carrots
Celery
Raw pears
AVOID/LIMIT
Acidic foods can erode the enamel on the teeth and lead to tooth decay, and dark-colored foods (and drinks) of this type can usually stain the teeth as well.
Citrus fruits
Pickles
Tomatoes
Coffee
Red wine
Soda
Foods high in sugar can get stuck in the nooks and crannies of your teeth and easily cause cavities.
Candy (especially hard candies)
Dried fruit
If you’re concerned about the health and/or appearance of your teeth, Dr. Mann at Elite Dental Mann DDS offers a wide variety of procedures to improve virtually any oral condition. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Mann, please call (559)797-4355.
EAT
Foods rich in essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, protect enamel and promote remineralization (replacement of minerals) in teeth.
Low-fat milk and cheese
Mushrooms
Dark, leafy veggies
Fish and tofu
Crunchy foods with a high water content put your chompers to work and stimulate the production of saliva while gently removing plaque from the surfaces.
Apples
Carrots
Celery
Raw pears
AVOID/LIMIT
Acidic foods can erode the enamel on the teeth and lead to tooth decay, and dark-colored foods (and drinks) of this type can usually stain the teeth as well.
Citrus fruits
Pickles
Tomatoes
Coffee
Red wine
Soda
Foods high in sugar can get stuck in the nooks and crannies of your teeth and easily cause cavities.
Candy (especially hard candies)
Dried fruit
If you’re concerned about the health and/or appearance of your teeth, Dr. Mann at Elite Dental Mann DDS offers a wide variety of procedures to improve virtually any oral condition. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Mann, please call (559)797-4355.
Monday, March 2, 2015
TIPS TO KEEP YOUR TEETH LOOKING THEIR BEST
Brush and Floss Your Teeth Daily
Brushing and flossing your teeth will keep your teeth clean and free of plaque, and will keep your breath smelling fabulous.
See Your Dentist Regularly
Seeing your dentist regularly will help with early prevention of cavities or tartar build-up.
Whiten Your Teeth
Teeth whitening can brighten your smile by getting rid of tooth discoloration caused by caffeine, cigarettes, or aging. There are several options available such as ZOOM!® Whitening, in-house bleaching, laser whitening, and at-home bleaching products.
Straighten Your Teeth
Invisalign can straighten your teeth and make them look fuller. It’s a great option if you want straighter teeth but don’t want to deal with metal braces.
Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin, shell-like sheets of porcelain that are bonded directly to the enamel of the teeth. If you have crooked, chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth, then this may be the option for you to give you that confident smile back.
Dental Implants
Dental implants may be the solution you need to have a “Perfect” smile if you are missing a tooth, have any gaps, or have imperfect teeth. Not only will you have confidence in your smile, but also your teeth will function better, and your overall facial appearance will be improved.
Dr. Mann at Elite Dental Mann DDS would love to meet with you to discuss any dental procedure you desire. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Mann, please call our office at (559)797-4355
Brushing and flossing your teeth will keep your teeth clean and free of plaque, and will keep your breath smelling fabulous.
See Your Dentist Regularly
Seeing your dentist regularly will help with early prevention of cavities or tartar build-up.
Whiten Your Teeth
Teeth whitening can brighten your smile by getting rid of tooth discoloration caused by caffeine, cigarettes, or aging. There are several options available such as ZOOM!® Whitening, in-house bleaching, laser whitening, and at-home bleaching products.
Straighten Your Teeth
Invisalign can straighten your teeth and make them look fuller. It’s a great option if you want straighter teeth but don’t want to deal with metal braces.
Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin, shell-like sheets of porcelain that are bonded directly to the enamel of the teeth. If you have crooked, chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth, then this may be the option for you to give you that confident smile back.
Dental Implants
Dental implants may be the solution you need to have a “Perfect” smile if you are missing a tooth, have any gaps, or have imperfect teeth. Not only will you have confidence in your smile, but also your teeth will function better, and your overall facial appearance will be improved.
Dr. Mann at Elite Dental Mann DDS would love to meet with you to discuss any dental procedure you desire. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Mann, please call our office at (559)797-4355
Friday, February 27, 2015
Bruxism
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I GRIT MY TEETH?
Most people who clench their teeth also grind their teeth. The term “bruxism” refers to both actions. While consistently clenching the jaw can cause some stress to the teeth, grinding the teeth together can lead to worse problems like cracks, chips, and loose teeth.
It is very common for people to experience bruxism while they are asleep, having no idea that they are damaging their smile. Dr. Mann, dentist in fresno at Elite Dental, can easily tell if bruxism has been occurring when she examines your mouth at a routine dental visit. If any damage has occurred, she may recommend dental bonding or a much stronger alternative like porcelain veneers to keep up with the consistent damage. She can also customize a mouthguard to be worn at night to help protect your teeth.
WHAT OTHER DAMAGE CAN TEETH CLENCHING CAUSE?
Since one of the muscles responsible for bruxism, the temporal fossa, extends all the way into the skull, its overuse can be a cause of recurrent headaches and earaches. “Lockjaw” is also a side effect of bruxism because of the muscle spasms and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) inflammation it can cause.
HOW DO I GET RELIEF?
Reducing stress and avoiding food that can be hard to chew, such as toffee, caramel, or steak, will help to relax the overworked jaw muscles. You should also avoid chewing gum and opening your mouth very wide on a consistent basis. Dr. Mann at Elite Dental can provide further recommendations for treatment for bruxism during your consultation. Please schedule your appointment today at (559)797-4355.
Most people who clench their teeth also grind their teeth. The term “bruxism” refers to both actions. While consistently clenching the jaw can cause some stress to the teeth, grinding the teeth together can lead to worse problems like cracks, chips, and loose teeth.
It is very common for people to experience bruxism while they are asleep, having no idea that they are damaging their smile. Dr. Mann, dentist in fresno at Elite Dental, can easily tell if bruxism has been occurring when she examines your mouth at a routine dental visit. If any damage has occurred, she may recommend dental bonding or a much stronger alternative like porcelain veneers to keep up with the consistent damage. She can also customize a mouthguard to be worn at night to help protect your teeth.
WHAT OTHER DAMAGE CAN TEETH CLENCHING CAUSE?
Since one of the muscles responsible for bruxism, the temporal fossa, extends all the way into the skull, its overuse can be a cause of recurrent headaches and earaches. “Lockjaw” is also a side effect of bruxism because of the muscle spasms and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) inflammation it can cause.
HOW DO I GET RELIEF?
Reducing stress and avoiding food that can be hard to chew, such as toffee, caramel, or steak, will help to relax the overworked jaw muscles. You should also avoid chewing gum and opening your mouth very wide on a consistent basis. Dr. Mann at Elite Dental can provide further recommendations for treatment for bruxism during your consultation. Please schedule your appointment today at (559)797-4355.
Monday, February 23, 2015
Flossing is very important to maintaining oral health
Flossing is very important to maintaining oral health because it removes plaque and bacteria that a toothbrush cannot reach. This is common knowledge, yet so few people floss on a regular basis. Common excuses for not flossing are, “It hurts when I floss,” “My teeth are too close together,” and “I never get food stuck in my teeth.” The reality is, if you are flossing correctly and using the right kind of floss, these excuses will no longer apply!
WHY FLOSS?
If your excuse for not flossing is, “I never get food stuck in my teeth,” you might not understand the main objective of flossing. While flossing does remove noticeably annoying food particles that get caught between your teeth, the main purpose of flossing is to scrape away the thin film of bacteria that collects on the teeth during the day. Between the teeth and the gums is a small pocket that easily traps bacteria and is difficult to reach with a toothbrush. As you scrape the floss down the side of each tooth and gently down into the gum pocket, you remove a film of bacteria that would otherwise linger and eventually cause plaque buildup.
HOW TO FLOSS
If it hurts to floss, you may have gingivitis, or you may simply not be flossing correctly. Here is how to floss the right way:
Insert the floss between two teeth.
Slowly place the floss beneath the gum line at the base of one tooth.
Curve the floss around the tooth, and scrape it along the edge of the tooth.
Repeat step 3 in the same space between those teeth, but scrape the floss against the neighboring tooth, making sure to go all the way to the base of the tooth beneath the gum line.
Repeat steps 1 through 4 between each two teeth using a clean section of floss each time. This prevents transferring bacteria to neighboring teeth.
THE RIGHT FLOSS
If your teeth are very close together or if you have braces, flossing might be a little more challenging. Try waxed floss, glide floss, or use a threader that is made to get around the brackets of braces. If your floss shreds, you might have a problem with your dental work, or you could have a cavity. A visit to your dentist can help to identify the problem.
If you are interested in general or cosmetic dental services offered by Dr. Mann at Elite Dental Mann DDS, please schedule your appointment today at (559)797-4355.
WHY FLOSS?
If your excuse for not flossing is, “I never get food stuck in my teeth,” you might not understand the main objective of flossing. While flossing does remove noticeably annoying food particles that get caught between your teeth, the main purpose of flossing is to scrape away the thin film of bacteria that collects on the teeth during the day. Between the teeth and the gums is a small pocket that easily traps bacteria and is difficult to reach with a toothbrush. As you scrape the floss down the side of each tooth and gently down into the gum pocket, you remove a film of bacteria that would otherwise linger and eventually cause plaque buildup.
HOW TO FLOSS
If it hurts to floss, you may have gingivitis, or you may simply not be flossing correctly. Here is how to floss the right way:
Insert the floss between two teeth.
Slowly place the floss beneath the gum line at the base of one tooth.
Curve the floss around the tooth, and scrape it along the edge of the tooth.
Repeat step 3 in the same space between those teeth, but scrape the floss against the neighboring tooth, making sure to go all the way to the base of the tooth beneath the gum line.
Repeat steps 1 through 4 between each two teeth using a clean section of floss each time. This prevents transferring bacteria to neighboring teeth.
THE RIGHT FLOSS
If your teeth are very close together or if you have braces, flossing might be a little more challenging. Try waxed floss, glide floss, or use a threader that is made to get around the brackets of braces. If your floss shreds, you might have a problem with your dental work, or you could have a cavity. A visit to your dentist can help to identify the problem.
If you are interested in general or cosmetic dental services offered by Dr. Mann at Elite Dental Mann DDS, please schedule your appointment today at (559)797-4355.
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