Category: Restorative Dentistry

Dental Implant Post-Operative Instructions To Avoid Pain

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed in your jawbone to hold a replacement tooth or bridge in place. While dental implants and the surgery accompanying them are considered safe and effective, it is important to take good care of your new implant and follow post-operative instructions carefully to ensure successful healing and optimal long-term results. This article will discuss what you can expect during recovery after getting a dental implant and some tips for keeping your implant healthy afterward.

Dental Implant Post-Operative Instructions

After having a dental implant treatment, it is important to be mindful of any potential risks or complications that may arise. Being aware of post-operative instructions can help you avoid any problems and ensure successful healing.

1: Rest & Relaxation

It is important to rest after the surgery and not over-exert yourself for the first few days. Your mouth may be tender or sore, so it’s best to take a few days off work (if possible) and get plenty of sleep. Make sure to keep your head elevated at night with pillows if needed.

2: Avoid Strenuous Activity

Avoid any strenuous activity, as this can cause increased bleeding or disruption in healing. Stop immediately if you experience pain during light activity, and contact your dentist immediately.

3: Eat Soft Foods

Immediately following surgery, it is important to stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing. Avoid hard, crunchy, and spicy foods during the first few days of recovery. Also, avoid using a straw, as sucking on drinks can disrupt healing.

4: Regular Check-Ups & Cleanings

Getting regular check-ups and cleanings at least twice a year is essential. This will help your dentist assess the health of your implant and ensure that it is functioning properly.

5: Avoid Chewing on Hard Items

Avoid chewing on hard items such as ice or hard candy to protect your dental implant from wear or damage. Using caution when biting into hard foods can also minimize risks.

6: Brush & Floss Regularly

Brushing and flossing your teeth daily is essential, just like natural teeth. Brushing removes plaque buildup and helps prevent cavities and decay around the implant site. Flossing cleans in between teeth to remove food particles that brushing may have missed.

Conclusion

Dental implants offer a successful and lasting way to replace missing teeth. With proper post-operative care, your implant should heal quickly, and you’ll enjoy its benefits for many years. Following good aftercare habits such as regularly visiting the dentist, avoiding hard items, and brushing/flossing regularly can ensure that your dental implant remains healthy and functional in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long will my dental implant last?

Answer: If taken care of properly, a dental implant can last for many years – up to 25 or more!

Q: How soon after surgery can I eat normally?

Answer: It is important to begin with, soft foods immediately following surgery and then gradually transition back to your regular diet as you heal.

Q: What if I experience pain or discomfort?

Answer: It is normal to feel some soreness and tenderness around the implant site, but any excessive pain should be reported to your dentist immediately. Taking over-the-counter medications can help with any mild discomfort.

5 Best Tooth Replacement Options For Missing Teeth

Missing teeth can be a source of insecurity and embarrassment, especially when it comes to smiling or speaking in public. Fortunately, several tooth replacement options available today provide an effective solution for replacing missing teeth. From dental implants to dentures, these options offer varying levels of sustainability and cost depending on your lifestyle and budget needs. In this blog post, we will go over the five best tooth replacement options so you can decide which option is right for you.

5 Options for Replacing a Missing Tooth

By reading through this article, you’ll gain valuable information regarding all aspects of each treatment, from durability, longevity, and financial cost to maintenance requirements and possible side effects.

Option 1. Dentures 

Dentures are an affordable way to replace missing teeth. They consist of false teeth attached to a plastic base designed to look like gums. A full set of dentures consists of an upper and lower plate that fits snugly over your existing teeth and gums. Dentures can also be held in place with adhesive or denture clips. The main benefit of dentures is that they are easy to get used to and can be removed while eating or sleeping. However, they do require periodic adjustments as your mouth changes shape over time. 

Option 2. Bridges 

A bridge is a dental appliance that is used to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. Bridges usually consist of two crowns on either side of the gap, with false teeth in between them. This type of replacement tooth is fixed into place with dental cement or other adhesives, making it semi-permanent. Bridges can last for many years if properly cared for but may need occasional adjustments due to shifting in the jaw over time. The main advantage of bridges is that they provide stability when chewing food and speaking clearly. 

Option 3. Dental Implants 

Dental implants are artificial roots made from titanium metal that are surgically inserted into the jawbone beneath the gum line where a missing tooth used to be located. These implants fuse with your existing bone tissue, providing a secure foundation for a replacement tooth such as a crown or bridge. While dental implants tend to cost more than bridges and dentures initially, they offer long-term value since they can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Additionally, since they become part of your jawbone structure rather than sitting on top as dentures or bridges do, you’ll experience fewer problems with shifting or slipping when eating or speaking compared to other replacement teeth solutions. 

Option 4. Implant-supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures are dentures with a difference. Unlike traditional dentures, which can slip and move around your mouth as you talk, eat or smile, implant-supported dentures are held firmly in place by dental implants surgically placed in your jaw. This unique combination of denture stability and natural dentition strength gives you the assurance that your dentures can be comfortably worn anywhere, anytime! With secure denture stability, you have the confidence to laugh, speak and eat normally -without worrying about having to adjust dentures or having them come apart. Implant-supported dentures provide the perfect tooth replacement solution for those who want a beautiful and lasting smile without the hassle of dealing with regular denture maintenance.

Option 5. Dental Crowns

Dental crowns may be the dental treatment solution for you if you are experiencing dental problems such as extreme tooth decay. A dental crown is a permanent covering that encases the entire visible part of the tooth, restoring structural integrity and appearance. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain-fused-to-metal, gold alloy, and ceramic. Your dentist will work with you to decide on the best type of dental crown, depending on your needs and budget. Dental crowns can also help support bridges and dental implants. With today’s advances in dental technology, dental crowns provide a beautiful finish and are built to last – often lasting more than 10 years! If dental crowns are right for you, contact your dentist to arrange an examination today.

Final Words

Now that you know the different types of tooth replacement options, what will you choose? Here at our dental office, we want to help you make the best decision for your smile. Come in for a consultation where we can discuss your unique needs and find the right solution for you. We offer top-quality tooth replacement treatments that are sure to restore your smile. Contact us today to get started!

Implant-Supported Dentures: Dentist’s Guide To Maintenance

Do you want to replace your teeth with implant-supported dentures? Your mouth was designed to function with a complete set of teeth. Even if only one of your teeth is gone, you’ll have dental problems. You’ll need to find a means to restore your entire set of teeth if you’re missing many teeth. When choosing a denture alternative, consider how vital your teeth are to your regular activities, such as eating and speaking correctly. Our dentists at Winchester Smiles Of Virginia Family Dental Center will assist you in determining how to care for implant-secured dentures.

Why Are Implant-Supported Dentures So Popular?

Do you want to discover why implant-supported dentures are so popular? The popularity of this denture choice stems from the fact that it provides users with a great deal of stability. These dentures are very stable since dental implants are held in place. This prevents them from shifting and maybe slipping out of the mouth. You don’t have to avoid particular foods or deal with gum irritation. For further information, you may also speak with your Winchester dentist.

How To Take Care Of Your Implant-Supported Dentures?

The following sections detail how to care for implant-supported dentures. It’s important to note that if your implant-supported dentures bother your mouth or gums, your dentist in Winchester can adjust them to fit better.

Needs Regular Cleaning

Like any other type of denture, implant-supported dentures need to be cleaned daily. They must first be taken out of the mouth and then thoroughly cleansed with a solution.

Schedule Regular Appointments

Regular dental checkups are necessary because your Winchester dentist will inspect your dentures to ensure they are in good working order. They will also check the patient’s gums and mouth to ensure everything is in good working order.

Soak Overnight

By soaking dentures in water overnight, you may keep them hydrated. Otherwise, they risk losing their shape. You can also use a denture solution instead of water for thorough cleaning.

Follow A Good Oral Care Routine

Implant-supported denture wearers must maintain good oral hygiene for their dentures to work correctly. Brushing dental implants as natural teeth is one way to do so.

Is This Denture The Correct Choice For You?

Do you intend to replace your missing teeth with implant-supported dentures? While this is a popular denture choice, you should be aware that dentures supported by dental implants take longer to wear than other denture solutions. This is because dental implants must be surgically inserted into your jawbone to function like natural teeth and keep your dentures in place.

We hope this blog has provided all the necessary information on implant-supported dentures. Book an appointment with us at Winchester Smiles Of Virginia Family Dental Center for the best implant-supported dentures in Winchester, VA.

 

How can dental bridges replace your missing teeth?

Due to their affordable cost and popularity, dental bridges are considered one of the best alternatives compared to implants. There is no need to hide your smile because of the missing teeth. Dental restoration procedures such as bridges ensure your smile looks flawless. It is also considered a suitable technique to correct dental problems such as tooth replacement. The benefits of dental bridges are not only aesthetic but also functional. It is virtually indistinguishable from others, thus making it look quite similar to natural teeth.

There are various types of dental bridges. The type of bridges placed as a replacement for your missing teeth depends on the patient’s unique requirements. As part of it, a dentist in Winchester will do an initial checkup to identify which one is more comfortable and convenient for you. The most common types of bridges include cantilever bridges, bonded bridges, removable bridges, and implant bridges.

Traditional Dental Bridge

This type of bridge uses two dental crowns that are placed on top of the adjacent teeth. However, a dentist in Winchester, VA will proceed with reshaping your adjacent teeth to create the required space for accommodating the crowns.

Implant bridges

Implant bridges are the most popular compared to all other types of bridges. It is permanent and, at the same time, more durable. The procedure involves screwing a titanium piece directly into the jaw bone, thus providing artificial teeth in place of missing teeth. However, it is not for all. 

Cantilever Bridge

Instead of two crowns, this bridge uses only a single crown to support the whole restoration. However, most Winchester dentists nowadays do not use it. It is because it cannot be used in the back teeth since that is where increased pressure happens whenever you bite something. Therefore, it can quickly get damaged and collapse due to the pressure of the bite.

Bonded Bridge

Only minor surrounding teeth alterations are required in this type of dental bridge. However, two tiny wings need to be attached to the adjacent teeth. The professionals at the dental office in Winchester will work in creating a durable bond for dental restoration. Furthermore, they will micro-etch the two supporting teeth. It is suitable for those looking to replace a single missing tooth. 

Removable Bridge

As the name suggests, it can be removed similar to dentures. Some patients with specific oral health issues prefer this type of dental bridge. 

Your dentist in Winchester will do an oral examination to identify whether dental implants are suitable for you or not. Looking for implant bridges, contact the best dentist providing dental bridges in Winchester, VA. 

 

Am I An Ideal Candidate For Dental Implants?

Your teeth are one of the first aspects that people notice, and their looks can have an impact on how others see you. Improving your smile boosts your self-esteem while also improving your oral health.

If you’re missing teeth and aren’t sure if dental replacement surgery is suitable for you, there is nothing to worry about. We are going to provide you with the criteria that make you an ideal candidate for dental implants. But, before that here are some benefits of getting a dental implant, what to expect when you visit your dentist, and how to keep your teeth healthy following the procedure.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Every year, more than 5.5 million dental implants are performed, according to the American Dental Association. You may be wondering if a dental implant is ideal for you if you’ve opted to invest in cosmetic dentistry. The following are some of the benefits of dental implant surgery:

  • You should expect natural results after obtaining a dental implant. They have the same appearance and function like your natural teeth, letting you eat and speak without fear of them shifting or coming out.
  • One of the most common worries about obtaining a dental implant is the teeth’ long-term stability. It can be costly and time-consuming to have your teeth repaired or replaced. Nevertheless, with good care, your dental implant can last decades, far longer than conventional treatments such as bridges and dentures, which must be replaced every 5 to 10 years.
  • If you take excellent care of your dental implants by adopting good hygiene and visiting your dentist on a regular basis, you can expect your implants to last a long time. They are built to last a lifetime and have a success record of around 95%, which is higher than most other tooth replacement solutions.
  • One of the best aspects of dental implant surgery is that, unlike tooth-supported bridges, implants do not require you to file down your existing teeth. You won’t have to rely on your other teeth for support and structure if you don’t modify them. It’s also easier to clean in between your teeth with individual implants.
  • You risk bone resorption and degeneration if you lose the height of your jawbone. By minimizing the pressure on your other teeth, a dental implant helps to repair the structure of your jawbone, which may otherwise lead to a shift if not treated. Furthermore, because you do not have to change your teeth to receive the implant, you are conserving your natural tooth tissue.

Should You Get Dental Implants?

As previously stated, dental implant surgery has a number of advantages over alternative tooth replacement options. They’re implanted into your jawbone, where they’ll bond with the bone and act as a root for your missing teeth. Unlike other approaches, this one prevents slipping and injury. They will also not corrode over time because they are constructed of titanium.

Knowing this, you might be questioning if implants are right for you. Of course, you should talk to your dentist about the best tooth replacement option for you, but dental implants may be a good fit if:

  • You have healthy gums and dental tissue.
  • You have enough bone in your jaw to hold the implants in place, or you can get a bone graft.
  • You dislike or are unable to wear dentures.
  • You don’t have any health issues that could slow down your recovery following surgery.
  • You will need to have one or more teeth replaced.
  • You don’t smoke heavily.
  • You’ll practice good oral hygiene and see your dentist on a regular basis.

What Should You Expect When Getting Implants?

Once you’ve made the decision to obtain dental implants, your dentist will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan. It will cater to your unique requirements and instruct you on how to properly care for your dental implant.

A titanium post is put into the socket of your missing tooth during surgery. The implant merges with your jawbone at the root, cementing it into your jaw, as your bone and tissue recover. This procedure can take two to three months to complete.

Your dental team will return to expose the area where the implant was installed once it has successfully connected to your jawbone. They will introduce a new component that will be attached to your new tooth to keep it secure.

It’s now time to make your new crown. Your dentist will create a model of your bite in order to fabricate your replacement teeth. This will record all of your teeth as well as their placement in your mouth. The mold will be used to build the new tooth, which will then be linked to the implant once it has been created and the color-matched to your natural teeth. Your replacement teeth should have the same appearance, feel, and function as your natural teeth.

Aftercare Tips Of Dental Implants 

It’s normal to have some swelling and discomfort following your tooth replacement. Taking pain relievers like ibuprofen, on the other hand, should help you feel better. Following your operation, it’s critical that you visit your dentist on a frequent basis to ensure that your implant is healing properly and adhering to your jawbone.

Following the placement of your implant, you must ensure that your teeth are properly cared for. Brush and floss your teeth as directed in your personalized treatment plan. Use an antibacterial mouth rinse to decrease bacteria and avoid infection.

Making the decision to invest in dental implants is a significant step. Dental implants have numerous benefits, which you should discuss with your dentist to determine whether this is the best tooth replacement option for you and your schedule. 

Now that you have gathered a clear idea about implants and the criteria to fulfill, do not hesitate to consult your dentist. Stop suffering from the problems related to missing teeth and restore the beauty of your smile today. In case you are looking for the best dental implants service in Winchester, VA, or nearby, book your appointment at Smiles Of Virginia. We are here to design a treatment plan that specifically suits all your oral requirements. Also, you can consult the best Winchester dentists at our dental office. Call us today!

 

Implant-Supported Dentures: Cost, Benefits & Maintenance

Most people do not enjoy traditional dentures because they must be removed at all times and may slide around within your mouth while you speak or chew. If you’re tired of dealing with such problems, implant-retained dentures may be the best option for you. Unlike traditional dentures, these dentures are permanently connected to your implants and cannot be removed. They have the same look and feel as your natural teeth and are very secure and comfortable. Our dentists at Smiles Of Virginia have answered all your questions related to implant-supported dentures.

What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?

Implant-supported dentures are attached to your dental implants instead of your gums. These are usually placed in the lower jaw because they need the most amount of support. If you have adequate jawbone to sustain your implant your Winchester dentist might ask you to get these dentures.

How Much Do Implant-Supported Dentures Cost?

The exact estimate usually depends on several factors and the cost also greatly varies. Your dental insurance plan is also a deciding factor in this case. However, you can expect the price to be somewhere around $6000 in the case of 2 implants. The cost of immediate-supported dentures could be more depending on the number of implants you require, your area of residence, and your oral health condition. It is best to ask your dentist in Winchester for the exact cost.

What Are The Benefits Of Implant-Supported Dentures?

Now that we have a basic understanding of implant-retained dentures let us find out the benefits of using them. Your favorite Winchester dentist has listed a few of them below.

  • Very stable and can provide a lot of support to the implants.
  • No chance of falling off or sliding inside your mouth as they are attached to your implants. This makes them a very convenient option.
  • Look extremely natural and can easily blend in with your original set of teeth.
  • Helps to improve your smile and your overall appearance.
  • Can improve the functionality of your teeth to a considerable extent.
  • Fits perfectly which helps you to improve your confidence as well.
  • Prevents any sort of bone loss. Implant-supported dentures promote the formation of bone cells and stop your jawbone from disintegrating.
  • No more restrictions on diet. These dentures get rid of all the difficulties you might experience while chewing your food.

How To Take Care Of Implant-Supported Dentures?

It is essential to take good care of any dental device to ensure that they last longer. It is the same for implant-supported dentures as well. Follow these instructions by your favorite dentist in Winchester to make sure that your dentures last for a long time.

  • If your implant-supported dentures have not been fastened into the proper position, then you must brush your teeth, tongue, gums, and roof of the mouth properly before putting them on.
  • Before brushing. Rinse your dentures thoroughly to remove all leftover food particles.
  • You must rinse your dentures after every meal as well.
  • Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a non-abrasive cleaner to clean your dentures
  • Keep your dentures in plain water when you are not using them.

We hope this blog has addressed all your questions related to implant-supported dentures. Get in touch with us at Smiles Of Virginia if you are looking for the best implant-supported dentures in Winchester, VA.

What Are The Advantages of Getting Sinus Lift?

What is Sinus Lift?

Our teeth are held together by the bones of our upper and lower jaw. The jawbones play a crucial role in helping us bite and chew various kinds of food. They also maintain the proper facial structure. Bone loss in the jaws is one of the very common oral issues. It happens for a wide range of reasons. The reasons can range from gum diseases to tumors and cysts in the jaws. 

Therefore, it is essential to provide an adequate amount of stimulation to the jawbones. Numerous people have lost a tooth in the upper or lower jaw which has resulted in bone loss. In these current times, any kind of dental issue can be solved like advanced orthodontic treatments like Sinus Lifts. 

But what is Sinus Lift? Sinus Lift can be defined as a dental procedure that is performed by dentists or orthodontists to improve the bone mass in the upper jaw of the patient. Now let us take a look at who are the possible candidates for this procedure. 

Who Is An Ideal Candidate for This Treatment?

If you are ever told by your dentist that you do not qualify for dental implants because of bone loss in the upper jaw, you can be a potential candidate for a sinus lift. Due to the position of our sinus cavity, it is very challenging for orthodontal surgeons to place dental implants in the rear end of our upper jaw. In addition, having these issues can also make you ideal for a sinus lift:

  • Having engorged sinuses.
  • Suffering severe facial injury or trauma.
  • Having an advanced stage of gum disease.
  • Tooth loss by accident.
  • Undergoing tooth extraction procedure on the upper jaw several times. 

The Advantages of Sinus Lift

There is no doubt about the importance of a sinus lift treatment and why it is required for some patients. Now let us get to know about the various advantages of the Sinus Lift treatment:

  • Lessens The Risk of Serious Damage In The Sinuses: If the wall of the maxillary sinus is too close to the upper section of the mouth or too thin, then inserting dental implants may cause severe damage to it. This issue can easily be solved by getting a sinus lift treatment.
  • Repairs Damage from Tooth Loss and Gum Disease: Sinus lift can make the jawbones stronger by adding more mass to it. In some of these sinus lift procedures, a natural or synthetic bone graft is used to replace the missing bone material.
  • It Makes Getting Dental Implants Possible: Sinus lifts opens a wide range of possibilities for patients suffering from bone loss in the jaws. It helps them to qualify for treatments like dental implants. 

 

Finally, we hope that our blog has helped you in knowing about sinus lift treatment and its advantages. If you need advanced dental services in Winchester, VA, then please visit our Winchester dentist at Smiles of Virginia Family Dental Center. We use advanced technology to treat a wide range of dental problems. 

What Are The Benefits of Full Mouth Reconstruction?

What Do You Mean By Full Mouth Reconstruction?

Our oral health is connected to our overall health and well-being. Therefore, it is crucial to take care of your teeth at home and also through professional means.  But how do you fix the problem of damaged and decayed teeth in both of your upper or lower jaws? Is there any way of solving this kind of issue? Dental surgical treatments like full mouth reconstruction or restoration can easily solve these problems. This procedure is highly recommended for people born with severe facial deformities that affect their teeth and gums. 

It is also required for individuals who have suffered severe oral and facial injuries in an accident. But what exactly is a full mouth reconstruction treatment? Full mouth reconstruction can be defined as a surgical procedure or a set of procedures that brings back the proper functioning of a person’s teeth and gums. It is also capable of eliminating problems like neuromuscular problems, headaches, and neck aches. 

 

Who Is An Ideal Candidate for This Treatment?

Several factors can make a person suitable for this surgical procedure. They are as follows:

  • Headaches and issues in the jaw and facial muscles due to severe cases of malocclusion.
  • Severe damage and decay to full sets of teeth both in upper and lower jawlines.
  • Serious injury or trauma to the teeth and gums.
  • Hard and soft tissues that are fractured due to an accident.
  • Teeth that are extremely worn out as a result of the long-term consummation of acidic foods and beverages.
  • Teeth that have suffered major damage due to teeth grinding or bruxism.

 

The Procedures Needed for This Treatment

It is crucial to consult your dental surgeon to know the specific procedures that are needed before undergoing full mouth reconstruction. They are as follows:

  • Periodontal cleaning and teeth cleaning.
  • Gum Contouring
  • The lengthening of your dental crowns.
  • Reduction of your natural oral structure.
  • Surgery to reposition your jaw.
  • Placement of temporary dental restorations 
  • Soft tissue or bone graft.
  • Other orthodontic procedures. 
  • Implant placement and restoration. 
  • Placement of permanent dental restorations like dental bridges, crowns, and veneers.

 

The Benefits of This Treatment 

While full mouth reconstruction or rehabilitation treatment is considered as a cosmetic procedure for many people, it also has some significant health benefits:

  • It gives you a new mouth and a beautiful smile.
  • It removes all plaque and tartar as well as bacterial colonies from your teeth and gums.
  • Averts serious gum diseases.
  • It also adds to the bone mass of the jaws by bone grafting.
  • It can even cure issues related to TMJ. 

Therefore, we hope our blog has helped you to learn about full mouth reconstruction treatment and its benefits. If you need the best reconstructive surgeries in Winchester, VA, then please visit us at Smiles of Virginia Family Dental Center. We ensure an enjoyable experience for the first visit of your family members. 

Tooth Extraction: Basic Guide & Recovery

Tooth extraction or exodontia is a fairly common procedure and most of us have to get at least one tooth pulled out at some point in our lives. However, the phobias and paranoias associated with the procedure are endless and justifiably so. Let us take a look at this article which provides a step-by-step analysis of the entire process and try to rid ourselves of the anxiety.

Reasons for Tooth Extraction

There are a wide array of reasons as to why your tooth needs to be pulled out. One of the main reasons could be a crowded mouth and removal of teeth could lead to perfect alignment. Serious dental infection is also one of the leading causes of tooth removal. Your dentist can also recommend a tooth extraction surgery if you are suffering from periodontal disease. Now that we know the most common reasons let us delve deeper into the basics of the tooth extraction procedure.

Sedation Dentistry

Numbing the site of the tooth extraction is done even before the tugging and pulling out of your tooth starts. The location of the tooth determines if you will receive an intravenous anesthetic or a general neuroleptic. In case you are given the local anesthetic or the injection, then you might be instructed to not eat or drink anything eight hours before the procedure. To avoid any serious complications we would recommend you to provide your entire medical and dental history to your dentist and also specify any medication you are under. Our team of dentists will discuss the options with you and help you select the best sedative dentistry service for your case. Put your mind at ease and you are all set to begin the procedure.

The Extraction Process

Once you have been sedated and your gum tissue is adequately numb, our Dentist in Winchester and the team will attempt to loosen the teeth. When it is sufficiently loose from the ligaments and the jawbone, our team of dentists will perform the extraction using forceps. These are simple extractions and they are generally smooth and hassle-free. Surgical extractions, on the other hand, could be a bit complicated. If the tooth is impacted then the dentist can solve the issue easily with small incisions. You are only supposed to feel pressure throughout the entire procedure. In case of any pain or discomfort let your dentist know. In such cases, your sedative could be tweaked to numb the area further.

Steps to Hasten the Recovery

The recovery process could take anywhere from two to three days to a week. If the pain persists you are advised to contact your dentist immediately and request painkillers. 

Gently biting the gauze pad: 

Once the procedure is complete, your dentist will place a sterilized gauze pad to prevent bleeding and preserve the blood clot which has been formed. You are supposed to firmly but gently bite it and change it once it is completely covered in blood. Keep it for as long as your dentist advises you to do so. Oftentimes the edges of the gum will be closed up with self-dissolving stitches which will fasten the recovery process and prevent bacteria from entering your bloodstream. Avoid rinsing your mouth for the next 24 hours to avoid conditions leading to a dry socket.

Cold Compressions: 

The application of ice packs can minimize the swelling and lead to a faster healing process. Using cold compresses for ten to twenty minutes has been seen to reduce pain.

Eat soft food:

Beverages and edibles of jelly-like consistency will be your best friend during the recovery process. Ingest soft food like yogurt, pudding, or even soup till the pain subsides and you can again chew properly. 

 

Additionally, avoid smoking and give a lot of rest to your body for the next two days. Occasionally rinse your mouth with saline water after 24 hours of the extraction procedure. If you have any further questions related to extraction then consult a dentist near you immediately. And if you are looking for a dentist in Winchester, VA then please do not hesitate to contact us for a consultation.

How Are Stroke And Oral Health Connected?

Taking care of your oral health is very important as the improper state of your gums and teeth can have a direct impact on your body. The growth of bacteria in the human mouth has been often linked to dementia, heart disease, diabetes, problems in pregnancy, stroke and dementia. But as you might have figured out from the title, in this blog we are going to discuss how oral health is connected to stroke. Therefore, if you have any confusion related to this topic, do give the sections below a thorough read.

What is a stroke?

Before talking about the topic in detail, you should at least have a basic understanding of what stroke is. It can be defined as a situation that is caused due to a blood vessel in your brain getting burst or a blood clot stopping the free flow of blood to your brain. You need to know that there are certain symptoms of a person experiencing a stroke. They are :

  • Slurring while talking
  • Weakness felt during arm movement
  • Drooping face

Stokes can happen to people belonging to almost all age groups. But, the probability is more in the case of people who are aged or the ones who make really bad lifestyle choices. 

The connection between Oral Health and Stroke

Stroke can occur due to gum diseases. The primary reason behind this is the inflammation that is caused due to gum problems. You need to know that the bacteria responsible for gum diseases can be the reason for mouth infection. This bacterial infection can get into your bloodstream and ultimately make your blood clot. You have read before that blood clotting can be a pivotal factor causing a stroke. 

How to prevent this problem?

Now that you have gained a clear understanding of the link between gum disease and stroke, let us talk about the tips to prevent the problem. The first thing is to be very careful to notice the first symptoms of gum diseases. They are:

  • Swollen gums
  • Reddishness in gums
  • Tenderness in gums
  • Bleeding spotted while flossing or brushing
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Formation of pus between gums and teeth

If you face any of these problems, there is nothing to worry about. Adopting a few precautions can help you prevent or even resolve such issues with ease. These tips have been provided in the pointers below:

  • It is advisable to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Doing so will help get rid of the food particles stuck in between your teeth and in turn, eliminate the chances of facing gum problems.
  • Make sure to floss regularly. Flossing helps to clean the areas where your toothbrush cannot reach. Do it at least once a day before brushing your teeth.
  • Use an antibacterial mouthwash to fight against the infection-causing bacteria.
  • You should definitely consult your dentist in case of any serious gum problems. Always remember that getting your oral health checked daily will increase the chances of any dental problem getting diagnosed at an early stage. Try to book an appointment at a dental clinic that accepts your dental insurance (if you have any).

We hope that going through the blog has been of effective health. In case of any further confusions related to the topic do not hesitate to entrust the best to your dental health. Smiles of Virginia Family Dental Center has a team of dedicated dentists and other professionals who work day and night to meet the requirements of the patients. We are waiting to serve you. Thank you.