Thursday, August 11, 2016

Night Guards

If you’re someone who grinds their teeth at night, night guards are a good way to protect your teeth and to eliminate discomfort you may have in the morning. Teeth grinding or bruxism can cause jaw pain, wear down teeth, damage the enamel and irritate the gums. The noise can even disturb those sleeping next to you. A Point Pleasant New Jersey dentist such as Dr. Kenneth J. Sullivan, DDS, PC can determine whether or not night guards will work best for each patient.

How Night guards Can Help Bruxism Patients
These night guards are custom fitted for each patient and help them to be comfortable and to breathe properly. A professional dentist can help make sure that a proper fit will benefit the patient and their teeth. This is achieved by taking an impression of that patient’s teeth. The impression is sent directly to a dental lab where the night guard is created. They are very durable, and this is why they protect the teeth so well. Some can be worn up to ten years. This makes them a great investment for habitual teeth grinders.

While night guards are a great option for many dental patients, there are a few things that can be done to reduce the amount of grinding occurring. First, it is important to train the jaw to be free. Refrain from chewing on objects and gum. Also, caffeine can increase the chance of teeth grinding. If you suspect that you are grinding your teeth, a professional dentist can help determine if night guards would work for you. To schedule an appointment today, call 732-899-0222 or visit us at www.topgumnj.com

Friday, April 22, 2016

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that a dentist performs in order to lighten the color of a patient’s teeth. Darkening or yellowing of the teeth is a natural process when the teeth are healthy. There are many different types of whitening options and a Point Pleasant New Jersey dentist such as Kenneth J. Sullivan, D.C., P.C. can help decide which will benefit each of his patients the most.

About Teeth Whitening

During a teeth whitening procedure, the dentist will work on the outside layer of the teeth, the enamel. A layer forms over it known as the pellicle film from certain foods and beverages, genetics and smoking. When a dentist recommended teeth whitening, the dentist will want to make sure all other dental issues are repaired beforehand. This will help to ensure both the teeth and gums are health allowing the whitening solution to improve the color of the teeth and not irritate the mouth in any way.

Before teeth whitening begins, the dentist will photograph a patient’s teeth to monitor the progress during the treatment plan. The teeth are thoroughly cleaned in order to remove food, buildup or bacteria. The whitening process begins when a substance is applied to protect the gum then a light is used to activate the whitening gel placed on the teeth. This is when the bleaching process occurs. Depending on the type of solution used, it can continue to whiten the teeth for up to 10 hours after the treatment.

In order to determine what teeth whitening solution works best for each patient, contact a Point Pleasant New Jersey dentist such as Kenneth J. Sullivan, D.C., P.C. to schedule an appointment. To schedule your consultation today, call 732-899-0222 or visit www.topgumnj.com