EXTRACTIONS, WISDOM TEETH, AND ROOT CANALS
websitebuilder • December 18, 2018
Smiling Woman During Mouth Check Up — Wilmington, DE — New Concept Dental

Extractions


As ill-timed as it may be, there are occasions when a tooth needs extraction. Sometimes, this is the result of a primary (baby) tooth being misshapen, or because a tooth’s roots are too long, preventing it from naturally falling out. In some cases, a tooth may have to be removed because it is blocking a permanent tooth from erupting. Other times a tooth may have so much deterioration that it is putting the surrounding teeth and your jaw at risk. In situations like these, we may recommend taking out the tooth and putting a bridge or an implant in its place.


Other reasons we may suggest removal include:


  • Painful or poorly formed wisdom teeth
  • Orthodontic modifications
  • Infection


Tell Me More about Extractions


If we determine that tooth removal is the best option, we may perform the procedure the same day. However, it is our experience that most of our patients prefer to schedule a separate appointment on a different day to make sure someone is available to drive them home after the procedure.


At New Concept Dental, Drs. Fay, Matthews, and Bayley take their time to make sure all parts of the root are removed to make extraction simple and as pain-free as possible. You see, each tooth in your mouth has its root encased within your jawbone in the tooth socket. A ligament holds the tooth in place in the socket. For a tooth extraction to be successful, we must expand the socket so we can easily detach the tooth from this ligament.


Although it may seem scary, tooth extraction is a procedure we perform all the time. When you choose New Concept Dental, you can be assured that we’ll explain every part of the process. You and your teeth are in good hands from start to finish.


Is Extraction Painful?


We always go to great lengths to make sure you are comfortable with any dental procedure performed in our office. Extractions are quick procedures, usually only requiring a localized numbing agent to ease any pain or discomfort associated with the procedure. If you have dental anxiety, please let us know, and we will plan ahead of time to speak with you about our sedation options.


Do I Need to Replace My Extracted Teeth?


The answer to this question depends on many factors. For instance, was the tooth that was removed a wisdom tooth? Wisdom teeth serve no general purpose and replacing them is not necessary or recommended. But, if you lost a back molar other than your wisdom tooth, we most likely will suggest a replacement tooth or bridge be placed to prevent future dental problems. You don’t see your back teeth, but they do play a significant role in the function of your jaw joint as well as helping you chew your food properly. Missing back teeth can also affect your bite as your teeth may shift after the extraction. Most patients that lose a front tooth due to a traumatic injury, or other reason, almost always opt to have the tooth replaced for cosmetic purposes.


Learn more about tooth extraction by calling our offices and speaking with your friendly, pain-free extraction specialists in Wilmington, DE.

Wisdom Tooth — Wilmington, DE — New Concept Dental

Wisdom Teeth


Wisdom teeth usually make their grand appearance during an individual’s late teens or early twenties. These teeth are third molars and located in the very back of the mouth. They are the last teeth to emerge, both upper and lower. For lucky individuals, wisdom teeth will erupt through the gums and silently take their place, causing very little trouble.


Unfortunately, not everyone is so lucky. In cases like these, the wisdom teeth may become impacted and never quite fully erupt. Partial eruptions are attributed to the angle of the tooth’s entry or a lack of jaw room. A common type of impaction is mesial. When this happens, the wisdom tooth comes in at an odd angle, pushing forward toward the front of the mouth.


Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?


If your wisdom teeth are impacted, they must be removed. Failure to extract the tooth will result in the following:

  • Gum tenderness
  • Swelling
  • Severe pain


Even in cases where your wisdom teeth have erupted and are seemingly harmless, you may still want to consider removal. Wisdom teeth are tucked away in your mouth, making it difficult for your toothbrush to reach them for proper cleaning. Eventually, the teeth will begin to decay because they can not be cleaned properly. Recurring infections, and even periodontal disease can also be a problem for individuals with whole or partially erupted wisdom teeth.


When Should I Remove My Wisdom Teeth?


There is not a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. First, we’ll want to order panoramic X-rays to find out if you need to remove your wisdom teeth sooner rather than later. Ideally, we want to remove your wisdom teeth as quickly as possible. Removing these teeth before they have fully erupted is ideal because the roots have not fully formed, and the bone surrounding the teeth is not as dense, making extraction easier. Not only is extraction easier when wisdom teeth first form, but the recovery time is quicker.


How Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?


We understand that oral surgery can be scary, which is why we take our time to explain the process to you. First, we’ll numb the area around the wisdom tooth, using a local anesthetic before the extraction process begins. In some situations, we may opt to use medication to sedate you during the procedure. This method is used when patients express signs of anxiety or nervousness.


If the tooth is impacted, your dentist will remove a section of the bone covering the tooth. To reduce the amount of bone e removed along with the tooth, your dentist will section the tooth and then extract each piece through the small opening in the bone.


How Long Is the Recovery Process?


Recovery from wisdom tooth removal varies from person to person. It depends on the amount of difficulty related to the procedure and individual complications. When you have your wisdom teeth removed by one of our dentists, we provide you with detailed information about the procedure and what to expect from the recovery process.

Root Canal X-ray — Wilmington, DE — New Concept Dental

Root Canals and Your Dental Health


In the past, if you had a damaged tooth because of a diseased nerve, you had no choice but to have the tooth extracted. Today, thanks to advances in dentistry, many times we can save your tooth when there is nerve damage using the dental procedure affectionately (and we use that word loosely) referred to as root canal treatment. This straightforward process is quick and is not nearly as painful or scary as popular culture makes it out to be. Root canal treatments take anywhere from one to three visits to complete. Although you may wince at the notion of a root canal, this minor treatment can save your tooth and maintain your smile!


Why Do I Need a Root Canal?


The best way to answer that question is to address misconceptions about a tooth’s nerve function and root canals in general. You may not know this, but a tooth’s nerve is not critical to the health of the tooth once it has erupted through the gums. While the nerve is necessary during the development and formation of the tooth, after the tooth emerges from the gum the primary function of this nerve is to provide sensory information. The nerve gives you information about whether a liquid or food is hot or cold, but it does not play any role in the day-to-day function of your tooth.


Once patients learn this surprising dental fact, the next question they often ask is, “Then why do I need to have a root canal if the nerve isn’t necessary?” The reason for a root canal is because when a tooth has a deep cavity or becomes cracked in any way, bacteria are more likely to form in the pulp tissues. When bacteria develop in a tooth, germs can fester and create an infection. Once the tissue is infected, it should be removed as soon as possible, or pain and swelling will occur. The infection can also travel to your jawbone, which can be damaging to your overall health. If a root canal is not performed, you could lose your tooth.


How Do I Know If I Need to See My Dentist for a Root Canal?


Believe it or not, many teeth that need root canals are not painful at all. Even though you may not feel pain, your teeth may be giving you certain signs that you need a root canal.


The following are a few symptoms to be mindful of:

  • Severe toothaches
  • Pain when chewing
  • Pain when pressure is applied to the area
  • Sensitivity or pain to hot and cold temperatures that are lengthy or reoccur frequently
  • Discoloration of the tooth
  • Tenderness or swelling in nearby gums


If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, contact us right away to schedule an appointment.


What Can I Expect during a Root Canal?


A typical root canal treatment can take anywhere from one to three visits. During the root canal, we will get rid of any infected tissue. Once the infected tissue is removed, the inside of the tooth will be cleaned, and a sealant applied. Lastly, we will use a dental composite to fill the tooth. If there is extensive decay in the tooth, we may recommend installing a crown on the tooth to provide added strength and protection to its structure. The crown will also prevent your tooth from breaking in the future.


How Long Does a Root Canal Last?


With proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups, teeth restored by a root canal treatment can last a lifetime.

Covering Tooth — Wilmington, DE — New Concept Dental

VENEERS

By websitebuilder • December 18, 2018
Veneers in Wilmington, DE Are you ashamed of your teeth? Do you avoid smiling because you have unevenly spaced, misshapen, stained, or crooked teeth? When you choose veneers, you don’t have to hide your smile behind your hand. At New Concept Dental, our veneers don’t hide your imperfections. Our veneers correct these problems. The result is a gorgeous smile that increases your confidence. Dental veneers are an ideal solution for our patients who need minor adjustments to improve make them feel confident once again. Tell Me More about Veneers We would love too! The veneers we use are slim, individualized shells fabricated from porcelain materials. They are made to resemble your tooth’s natural color and applied to the surface of the tooth. Before veneers can be attached, the tooth or teeth need to be prepared. First, we create a 3D representation of your teeth. Once the replica is completed, we deliver it to a dental technician who handles the creation process. Our technicians spend a good deal of time preparing the tooth to receive the veneer so that the best visual results are attained. Taking Care of Your Veneers Dental veneers look and feel like natural teeth and have stain resistant qualities. That being said, you do have to take certain precautions to keep up the appearance of your veneers. We want to remind our patients that although veneers have stain resistant qualities, it is wise to stay away from certain beverages like tea, coffee, or red wine. It is also best to avoid using tobacco products. If your veneers would become discolored, they do not take to whitening techniques like natural teeth do. Avoiding certain drinks and tobacco products will help you maintain your flawless smile for a long time. After the veneer procedure, we will provide you with a list of instructions for taking care of your new, flawless smile. To find out more about how veneers can improve your smile and increase your self-confidence, give the dentists at New Concept Dental a call today.
Mouth Piece — Wilmington, DE — New Concept Dental

MOUTH GUARDS

By websitebuilder • December 18, 2018
Mouthguards Many of our patients play sports, either for recreation or in a competitive nature; whether you wear braces or not, if you play a contact sport, it is important to protect your teeth from injury. Mouthguards are dental appliances designed to protect your teeth and gums from injury when playing a sport. The American Dental Association (ADA) highly endorses the frequent use of mouthguards when participating in a contact sport, recreational or otherwise. When choosing a mouthguard, you have three options: Pre-made mouthguards Boil and bite fitted guards Custom-made mouthguards For truly custom-made mouthguards, give us a call and let us fit you for a protective appliance. Customized mouthguards offer the best protection because they are made to fit your teeth and mouth precisely. Customized mouthguards result in fewer instances of the appliance slipping or falling out during play. Regardless of which type of mouthguard you choose, you want to make sure that it meets the following criteria: Tear-resistance Fits well in your mouth Easy to clean Allows for proper airflow Doesn’t restrict breathing Is comfortable to wear At New Concept Dental, we can provide you with information on choosing the right mouthguard and show you how to wear it properly so your smile is always protected. If you’re an athlete in Wilmington, DE, give us a call today at (302) 778-3822 .
Lower Teeth Denture — Wilmington, DE — New Concept Dental

DENTURES AND IMPLANTS

By websitebuilder • December 18, 2018
Dentures in Wilmington, DE At New Concept Dental, we firmly believe that dentistry is all about creating beautiful smiles. We strive to make sure all of our denture patients feel confident when they smile because we know having a strong and attractive smile matters. Our practice specializes in providing customized denture services meeting the individual needs of our patients and ensuring that all our denture patients have a comfortable experience while wearing their dentures. We know you are one-of-a-kind, which is why we go above and beyond to make sure your customized experience leaves you feeling and looking great, helping you wear your dentures with pride and confidence. What Are Dentures? You may have heard about dentures from friends or family, but let us take a moment to explain what dentures mean to New Concept Dental. The dentures we offer our patients are natural-looking, replacement teeth that are removable. Dentures are available as full or partial dental appliances. We recommend partial dentures as an alternative to a bridge. In situations like this the dentures are attached to a metal frame bonded to your natural teeth. Partials help fill the spaces where permanent teeth used to be. When a person has lost all of his or her permanent teeth, we recommend full dentures. We offer our patients two kinds of full dentures: conventional and immediate. The differences between the two are as follows: Conventional dentures take several months and many dental visits to complete the process. The reason for the delay is that the gums must fully heal before we can safely place the dentures in the mouth. Immediate full dentures can be placed in the mouth immediately following an extraction. Although these types of dentures are instantaneous, they require several adjustments during the initial months and necessitate numerous office visits. Let Us Help You Choose the Right Dentures Are dentures right for you? The answer is not as simple as yes or no. The best way to find out if you are a candidate for dentures is to contact our offices and schedule an appointment to meet with one of our dentists. When you meet with one of our dentists, he or she will address any concerns you have. Your dentist will answer questions, examine your mouth, and help you make the best decision regarding whether or not dentures will benefit your ongoing oral health needs. How to Care for Your Dentures Even though dentures are not natural teeth, you still need to take care of them like natural teeth. Keeping the dentures clean and free of bacteria is important to prevent gum disease and other conditions. Check out these recommended ways to keep your dentures clean: Be careful with your dentures when handling them. Accidents happen more frequently during the removal or insertion of dentures. Avoid an accidental break by standing over a sink of water, or placing a folded towel on the sink. Don’t forget to brush your dentures. As with natural teeth, plaque and tartar can build up on your dentures. You can remove these substances with daily brushing, using a soft-bristled brush. Clean your dentures by lightly brushing the surface, being extremely cautious as not to bend or crack the plastic. If you have a full set of dentures, remember to keep your gums and tongue clean too. Again, use a soft-bristled brush, gently cleaning your tongue and your gums. Always rinse your dentures after each meal to keep them clean between brushings. Don’t use mouthwashes and drugstore toothpaste to clean your dentures. Many of these products are too harsh for dentures. Instead, we tell our patients to use mild hand soap for effective cleaning. Give us a call and we’ll give you with a list of approved ADA products that you can use to clean your dentures. Dentures need to stay moist. Don’t allow them to dry when you take them out, which leads to cracking, breaking, etc. Many dentures can be left in water overnight, but check with us before doing this. There are a few types of dentures that should not soak overnight. My Dentures Broke! What Do I Do?  First, don’t panic. Accidents happen. If your dentures have cracked or chipped, call us immediately. We’ll set up a time for you to come in for an examination. Whatever you do, it is imperative that you not continue to wear broken dentures. Not only will they not fit properly, but this can lead to pain and irritation in your mouth. Don’t forget to keep your regular dental appointments. Six-month checks and professional cleanings will keep your dentures looking good as new!
Before And After Teeth Fixing and Cleaning — Wilmington, DE — New Concept Dental

BONDING

By websitebuilder • December 18, 2018
Bonding in Wilmington, DE Are you embarrassed by stained teeth? Have you been hiding your smile because you are ashamed of your crooked teeth? Are you tired of looking at that chip in your tooth? If you can relate to any of these situations, it is time to consider the benefits of dental bonding. Bonding is a restoration method that can instantly improve your smile and raise your confidence. By placing a white filling on the surface of the bothersome teeth, your dentist can instantly take you smile from worn and drab to spectacular. Bonding is a very popular cosmetic procedure that is quick and matches the shade of your natural teeth. Other Reasons to Consider Tooth Bonding Did you know tooth bonding material can also be used to fill cavities? With this simple solution, you can avoid the traditional amalgam fillings and their silver color. Our patients appreciate that they can have their cavities filled using a material that is far less noticeable, especially for fillings on the front teeth. Of course, as with any dental procedure, the dentists at New Concept Dental will go over all your options. In some cases, tooth bonding may not be considered an option based on the location of the cavity or the extent of the tooth’s deterioration. How Long Does Tooth Bonding Last? One of the reasons that so many of our patients are excited about tooth bonding is it is an inexpensive cosmetic treatment option that is long lasting and completed in one visit. As with any cosmetic dental procedure, it is important to understand that there is a level of care that must be exercised to maintain the tooth bonding and prolong its appearance. Bonding is susceptible to discoloration and can break easier than porcelain veneers. If tooth bonding breaks, cracks, or chips, call your dentist as soon as possible. We’ll schedule an appointment to fix the problem right away.
Adding Single Tooth Denture — Wilmington, DE — New Concept Dental

BRIDGES AND CROWNS

By websitebuilder • December 18, 2018
Bridges in Wilmington, DE The main purpose of a dental bridge is to act as a replacement for missing, permanent teeth while maintaining the shape of a patient’s face. Dentists in Wilmington also use bridges to reduce stress on their patients’ bites. How Do Bridges Work? Bridges are fixed dental restoration appliances. Their primary purpose is to link a replacement tooth to the surrounding permanent teeth or dental implants. When fusing a bridge onto the surrounding teeth, it automatically goes to work providing the necessary support and strength for the surrounding teeth or dental implant when there is a gap. How Are Bridges Made? Various materials can create sturdy bridges. These materials include: Gold Alloy Porcelain It is also possible that all three materials are combined to make a suitable bridge. How Long Will My Bridge Last? As with any dental procedure, the length of time that a patient can expect it to last depends on the strength of the foundation. In the case of bridge work, this foundation is your teeth, gums, and bones. It is crucial that you continue to practice healthy, daily oral habits to keep the bridge intact without major problems. When your teeth, jaw, and gums are strong, a bridge will not give you problems and will last for many years. Stay on top of dental cleanings. Keep your regular checkups with your dentist so that he or she can examine the bridge to make sure everything is working as it should be. If you have additional questions about bridges or any other dental restorative, contact New Concept Dental today. Our exceptional dentists will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Woman With Tooth Ache — Wilmington, DE — New Concept Dental

TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDER

By websitebuilder • December 18, 2018
Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) Are you plagued with recurrent headaches, chronic neck pain, and immobilizing facial pain? If so, we’re here to tell you that you are not alone. There are millions of Americans just like you that face a daily battle with chronic pain. While there are many reasons for these painful conditions, many of our patients with symptoms can directly associate the pain with Temporomandibular Disorder, nicknamed TMD. What causes this pain? During the day the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), which connect the lower jawbone to your skull, are used continuously. Every time you open your mouth to talk, chew your food, yawn, and even when you swallow, you are activating and using these joints. When TMD develops, the pain in your temporomandibular joint pain can worsen and in time it can even restrict your jaw’s movement. Do You Have Any of These Symptoms of TMD? Jaw pain Ringing or stuffiness in your ears Recurrent headaches Frequent neck aches Popping or clicking when the jaw moves Facial swelling (on the sides of the face) Muscle spasms in the jaw Shift in alignment of your top and bottom teeth Limited mobility of the mouth You don’t have to live with the painful side effects of TMD. If you have any of the symptoms above, call us right away and schedule an appointment. We have many effective treatments available to minimize your pain. Tips for Stopping the Progression of TMD You can stop your TMD from getting worse. Follow these simple suggestions to reduce jaw pain, decrease your headaches, and treat your chronic pain. Relax. A relaxed face takes pressure off the jaw. Keeping your lips together and your teeth apart is an easy way to keep your face in a comfortable position. Don’t grind your teeth. Don’t chew gum nonstop. Once in a while is fine, but chronic gum chewers are at a higher risk for TMD. When speaking on the phone, use a headset. Don’t cradle the phone between your head and shoulder. Chew your food evenly, using both sides of your mouth Don’t sit with your chin resting on your hand. Practicing good posture can relieve or prevent symptoms of TMD. Of course, you want to make sure TMD is the cause of your pain and not another underlying cause. For a full evaluation, call New Concept Dental today and let our TMD specialists evaluate the situation.

REGULAR DENTAL CARE AND PREVENTATIVE CARE

By websitebuilder • December 18, 2018
Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings in Wilmington, DE At New Concept Dental, we stand by the notion that regular dental exams are an important aspect of maintaining your oral health. Often, problems exist that you may not be able to see or feel. Stay current with regular dental exams to address these issues. During your six month checkup, we will perform the following services: Examine your teeth for cavities and other indications of tooth decay. Check your gums for signs of periodontal disease and gingivitis. Thoroughly clean your teeth. Update your medical history Perform a blood pressure check Regular dental exams take approximately 60 minutes to complete. A gentle and caring hand. . . The hygienists at New Concept Dental are the best at what they do. With expert training and a caring hand, your hygienist will remove built-up plaque on and in between your teeth in a gentle manner, making you as comfortable as possible. Staying current with your dental checkups, gives you the chance to talk with Dr. Faye, Dr. Redden, or Dr. Bayley about any concerns or problems you are experiencing with your mouth, teeth, or gums. Catching problems sooner, rather than later, is always the easiest way to prevent major dental work in the future. Need an appointment now? Give us a call and let us see what we can do for you. One of the reasons we’re the preferred dental practice in Wilmington, DE, is our commitment to scheduling convenient appointments for our patients. Call us today! We can’t wait to speak with you and schedule your dental exam. Preventive Care in Wilmington, DE Preventive dental care is an important part of your oral health routine, regardless of your age. Children and adults benefit from regular dental checkups. Scheduling bi-annual appointments with your dentist at New Concept Dental, and practicing good, daily oral hygiene at home, are effective ways of preventing plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. For a healthy smile, follow these oral health care recommendations: Daily brushing is a must if you want to keep your teeth strong and in good condition. We advise our patients to brush their teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush to protect your tooth’s enamel. Brushing removes food particles from the surface of your teeth and protects against the buildup of plaque. Is flossing part of your oral hygiene routine? When you floss, you get rid of bacteria between your teeth where your toothbrush’s bristles cannot easily reach. Along with daily flossing, we also recommend that you use mouthwash. Not only does mouthwash kill bacteria, but it will refresh your breath too. When you use these products together, it is easier to remove both plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gumline. Eating a nutritious, balanced diet not only keeps your waistline trim, but it keeps your smile bright and healthy. Make it a point to avoid sugary foods, replacing them with nutritious choices such as dairy, fruit, and raw vegetables. Ask us about protective sealants to find out if these products may be a good choice for you. Sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth, places where decay is more likely to develop. Sealants are easy to adhere, and they add another layer of protection against tooth deterioration. Do you play a contact sport? If so, protect your smile while you play, and ask us about customized mouth guards. Lastly, don’t forget to schedule regular checkups. If it has been more than six months since you last visited our offices, give us a call today at (302) 778-3822 to schedule an appointment for a professional cleaning and checkup. Dentists Fay, Redden, and Bayley, and all the staff at New Concept Dental care about YOU and strive to deliver the best preventive care in Wilmington, DE, every single day.
Happy Kid During Dental Check Up — Wilmington, DE — New Concept Dental

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

By websitebuilder • December 18, 2018
Pediatric Dentistry in Wilmington Have you been hesitant about taking your child to the dentist? Perhaps you feel they are too young, or maybe you want to protect them from what you think they will perceive is a frightening experience. We know that parents want the best for their children, which is why Drs. Fay, Redden, and Bayley go out of their way to provide the best possible oral health care for your child. Our team loves working with children and it shows in our warm, welcoming attitude to you and your children. At New Concept Dental in Wilmington, DE, we know that children are not actually afraid of the dentist, but of the unknown. By using age-appropriate language to explain dental procedures, and exercising patience and understanding, we instill trust in the families we serve. What Is the Best Time to Schedule My Child’s First Appointment? The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) suggests that children visit the dentist by their first birthday. This may seem like a very early age to visit the dentist, especially if a child only has a tooth or two. However, when the first teeth erupt, this is the best time to introduce your child to the dentist. We believe that the sooner you introduce dental care into your child’s life, the more likely your child will develop good oral healthcare habits and not fear going to the dentist. What You Need to Know about Your Baby’s First Teeth Primary teeth, also known as baby teeth, begin to develop and erupt through the gums between six and 12 months. Parents usually have a mixture of excitement and concern when these first teeth emerge. It’s exciting because your baby is hitting major milestones, but concerning because this can be a painful time for your child. Parents can help their children ease the pain by rubbing a clean finger over the gums, applying a cold washcloth, or using the tried and true teething ring. Fun tooth fact: Did you know that after all of your baby’s teeth have emerged, they will have 20 pearly, little whites in their mouth? It’s absolutely amazing how quick that happens! Throughout childhood, your child will lose their primary teeth. This happens at different rates for all children, but in most cases, you can anticipate your child’s first permanent tooth to emerge around age six. His or her permanent teeth will continue to emerge at a steady rate into early adulthood. When the last permanent teeth erupt, a person will have 28 teeth in their mouth. This does not include wisdom teeth. How You Can Help Your Child Develop Healthy Oral Habits Once your child’s teeth begin to develop and erupt, you’ll want to visually examine these tiny teeth at least once every couple of weeks. When performing these inspections, you’ll want to pay attention to stains, cracks, or lines in the teeth. These are indicators of tooth decay, which young teeth are quite susceptible to. You can protect your child’s teeth from tooth decay by limiting liquids and food with high sugar content. Of course, limiting sugary foods is just one way to combat decay. It is also important to make sure to brush your baby’s tiny teeth regularly. At New Concept Dental, we recommend that parents of babies follow a brushing schedule that is a little different than what you may be used to. Instead of brushing twice a day, we suggest that you brush your baby’s teeth four times a day, after each meal and right before he or she goes to bed. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush because you want to protect the delicate surface of their teeth. As far as toothpaste is concerned, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste that does not have fluoride in it. As your child develops into a toddler, you can begin to let him or her brush his or her own teeth. Toddlers like the feeling of independence this gives them and it helps them develop oral health habits. As your child grows into a preschooler, and eventually a grade-schooler, let them take control of their brushing routine; but, every once and a while, remind them of proper tooth brushing techniques. Don’t forget about flossing. We can help you determine the best time to introduce this oral health habit into their daily hygiene schedule. Prevent Tooth Decay with Current Checkups When sugar breaks down it turns into acid. This acid is what causes tooth decay and leads to cavities. Children tend to experience a higher rate of tooth decay because they don’t always practice the best oral hygiene. Parents who encourage their children to brush regularly and follow through with six month checkups can help their children avoid a mouthful of cavities. At New Concept Dental, in addition to regular checkups, we also endorse fluoride treatments once a year and the application of sealants. Sealants go a long way in preventing cavities and tooth deterioration because it covers the deep grooves in teeth that can be hard to clean. Sealants last for many years and are often covered by most insurance plans for pediatric dental patients. 
Swelling Gum — Wilmington, DE — New Concept Dental

GUM DISEASE

By websitebuilder • December 18, 2018
Gum Disease Gum disease is one of the primary causes of adult tooth loss. Also called periodontal disease, gum disease is an oral health condition that starts as an infection in your gums surrounding your teeth. The reason that tooth loss is quite common among adults with periodontal disease is because, often, there is very little pain associated with the condition, at least in the beginning stages of the disease. This means that many adults do not even know they are affected. Regularly visiting your dentist is a great way to catch gum disease early and prevent tooth loss. What Causes Gum Disease? The buildup of plaque is the primary reason that gum disease develops. Plaque is bacteria that adheres to the surface of your teeth. Everyone has plaque, but that doesn’t mean that everyone has periodontal disease. The reason for the disparity is because regular flossing, brushing, and following through with preventive dental care can remove the bacteria. Problems begin to escalate when plaque is left alone. This creates toxins that are extremely harmful to the gums. Gum disease originates below the gum line. When you see your dentist for routine checkups, he or she will examine and measure the space between your gums and teeth. This simple process is an effective way to detect early indicators of gingivitis, the earliest and most treatable form of gum disease. At this stage of gum disease, your gums may be red or swollen. They may also easily bleed. Your dentist will discuss oral hygiene solutions that can eliminate gingivitis. Usually following a strict daily brushing and flossing routine is enough to stop gingivitis from progressing. It is important to treat gingivitis because if it is ignored it can quickly develop into periodontitis. Once gum disease progresses to this point, any damage that has occurred may be irreversible. Gums and bones may be too weak to be repaired and can no longer support the teeth, which can lead spontaneous tooth loss or extraction. Frequent symptoms of periodontal disease include: Persistent bad breath Pus between the gums and teeth Permanent teeth separate from the gums Changes in the way your dentures fit Alterations in your bite Are You at an Increased Risk for Developing Periodontal Disease? You may be at greater risk for developing periodontal disease if you have certain preexisting dental or medical conditions, or engage in certain lifestyle choices. The following conditions and circumstances may increase your risk for periodontal disease: Crooked teeth Improperly fitted bridges Pregnancy Old fillings Diabetes Anti-steroid and anti-epilepsy medications Cancer therapy drugs Oral contraceptives Calcium channel blockers Smoking Use of chewing tobacco If you can identify with any of these risk factors, make sure that routine dental checkups and proper oral hygiene habits are a part of your life. Preventing and Treating Gum Disease At New Concept Dental, we have a number of ways we treat gum disease. These are not one-size-fits-all solutions. We look at the severity of your case and your individual dental history to determine the best course of treatment. Typical non-surgical treatments include root planing and scaling (deep cleaning). We also provide our customers with at-home periodontal trays. Other solutions include: Periodontal surgery Laser gum surgery Dental implants The best way to treat gum disease is to stop it from happening in the first place. Periodontal examinations that are performed during regular dental checkups help you maintain your oral health and achieve a healthy smile. When you practice good oral hygiene habits at home, you can considerably lower your chances of developing gum disease. You can further reduce your risk by including the following into your lifestyle: Brushing regularly Eating a well-balanced diet Flossing daily Also, don’t forget to schedule regular appointments with your dentist. Dentists Fay, Redden, and Bayley are experts at detecting and treating gum disease. If you live in the Wilmington, DE, area, give us a call today for a thorough screening and analysis of your gums.
Break Tooth Before And After Fix — Wilmington, DE — New Concept Dental

FILLINGS AND SEALANTS

By websitebuilder • December 18, 2018
Fillings in Wilmington, DE Traditional fillings, also called dental restoratives, are often made from composite materials, porcelain, or gold. We use these materials because of their sturdiness and long-lasting qualities. Traditional filling material protects restored teeth in the back of the mouth because and endures the wear and tear associated with chewing. However, these conventional fillings are not always the first choice for repairing front teeth. When our patients have a cavity on a front tooth, they want filling material that is natural looking, blending in well with their teeth. In situations like these, we recommend using filling material made from plastic compounds or ceramic. Referred to as composite resins, these compounds, offer a natural look. How to Choose Filling Materials If you need a cavity filled, the following situations should be taken into consideration: Type of material components Amount of tooth structure remaining Location of the filling The chew load the tooth will have to endure Number of visits needed Time required to adjust the tooth to be restored Cost of the dental restoration Before you begin your treatment, we will discuss your options so that you choose the most effective dental filling for your situation. Dental Filling Procedures Direct Fillings: During this procedure, we will prep the tooth, set the filling, and make final adjustments all in one appointment. Direct fillings include: Glass ionomers Resin ionomers Composite (resin) fillings Indirect Fillings: These types of fillings require more time in the dental chair. At a minimum, you will need to schedule at least two appointments. Indirect dental restoratives include the following: Inlays Onlays Crowns Veneers Bridges made with base metal alloys, composites, ceramics, or gold are also members of the indirect filling category. During the first visit, we will prepare the tooth and make an impression. Next, an impermanent covering is applied over the tooth. This covering protects the tooth while the impression is sent to the laboratory, and the restorative is created. Once this is completed, a second appointment is scheduled and for the restoration to be completed. If you would like to learn more about our cosmetic dentist team, contact New Concept Dental in Wilmington, Delaware, today. New Concept Dental 2004 Foulk Rd. Ste 1 Wilmington, DE 19810 (302) 778-3822 
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