TMJ disorders refer to a collection of jaw problems that may be treated by a dentist. The jaw joint is a complex one, with a number of structures that facilitate vertical and lateral movements. Problems may develop in the numerous muscles, ligaments and nerves that help the joint do its job, and a misaligned jaw can lead to TMJ disorder, as well.

Symptoms of TMJ disorders may range from jaw pain or stiffness to earaches to clicking or popping noises during chewing. If you have any of these symptoms, discuss them with your dentist to see what treatment is available.

Alternatively, bruxism is a specific condition in which people grind or clench their teeth, often while sleeping. Even when bruxism occurs during the day, patients are often unaware of it. However, patients’ spouses or partners may recognize the problem if it interrupts their sleep! Other signs of bruxism include worn down teeth or damage to the tongue or jaw.

While bruxism can lead to TMJ problems, the category of TMJ disorders is much broader. Issues with any component of the jaw joint may be classified with the TMJ disorders.

Your dentist may use different approaches in treating bruxism and TMJ disorders. Patients with bruxism often must wear a mouthguard at night, and dentists may recommend stress management or relaxation techniques to decrease the occurrences of bruxism.

To treat the symptoms of TMJ disorder, your dentist likely will recommend self-care measures, such as taking pain relievers, applying ice or heat to the area of pain or making dietary changes. Massaging the jaw muscles may also be helpful.

If your jaw and facial pain does not respond to the self-care techniques, you and your dentist may need to consider more invasive interventions, such as surgery. However, surgery is necessary only in rare instances of TMJ disorders.

There’s no need to live with jaw pain, whether it’s caused by bruxism or another TMJ disorder. Contact Plano Smile Studio at 972-398-2550 to see what steps you can take to alleviate your symptoms.

Dr. John M. Hucklebridge, your Plano veneers dentist, will often choose veneers to correct a variety of flaws or defects in the smile. Veneers may cover up a deep stain or a chip in a tooth or bring an undersized tooth into proportion with its neighbors. A slightly crooked stretch of teeth can be re-aligned with veneers, and the versatile devices can even fill in gaps between the teeth.

In planning for veneers, the cosmetic dentist will first discuss the patient’s goals for the smile. Next, the dentist prepares the teeth by removing a thin layer of enamel equal in thickness to the planned veneer. This prevents the veneer from protruding from the rest of the smile. The dentist then takes impressions of the teeth, which are sent to the dental laboratory as a guide for crafting the veneers.

Clearly, veneers must be designed to correct the patient’s specific target problem or problems. However, veneers can be customized in other ways, as well. Because each veneer is custom-designed for the patient, the dentist can provide the lab with specifications for shape and shade. This step helps the veneers to blend in with the biological teeth.

Even when the veneers are back from the lab, the dentist can still make any necessary adjustments to ensure a good fit with the patient’s smile. The dentist can re-shape the veneers or adjust the shade by using different amounts of bonding material.

Once veneers are bonded to the teeth, their shade can no longer be changed. For that reason, it’s important for patients to undergo any desired teeth whitening prior to veneer placement so that all of the teeth will match in color.

Veneers offer a popular cosmetic dentistry tool. Not only are veneers customized, they are durable as well, lasting up to 10 years with proper care. If you’re looking for long-lasting smile enhancements specific to your case, consider veneers.

Think about some of these more common harmful habits:

Bruxism- Of all the potentially harmful dental habits, bruxism may possibly be the biggest culprit. Defined as clenching and grinding of the teeth, bruxism can cause damage by wearing away the enamel, leading to chipped and fractured teeth. Bruxism patients may also notice frequently broken crowns and fillings, pain to the jaw joint, headaches, and neck pain. Chronic bruxism also leads to increased bone loss, a primary symptom of periodontal disease. Typically occurring during sleep, concentration, or during periods of stress, most patients are unable to control their bruxing habit. In these instances, your dentist may prescribe a protective mouth guard.

Chewing/biting hard objects- Frequently subjecting the teeth to extreme forces can lead to unexpected damage to the teeth and the soft tissues of the mouth. For instances, chewing cubed ice and biting nails, pencils and pens can cause fractured enamel. This type of trauma and stress can also be harmful to the vital nerve inside the tooth. In addition, the possibility of accidently cutting your lips, cheeks, tongue, or gums on sharp edges is increased. By frequently chewing hard objects other than food, you may also introduce the risk of choking or aspiration.

Failure to seek routine dental examinations- Avoiding or missing your routine dental visit should also be considered in terms of harmful dental habits. Many common and easily treated dental diseases can be prevented, identified, or resolved with early intervention. Your dentist’s expertise and state-of-the-art equipment can often uncover a potentially harmful dental issue well before you experience pain or sensitivity. By avoiding or delaying treatment, the resulting damage can be irreversible, leading to tooth loss and unnecessary pain.

For questions about other potentially harmful habits, or for a thorough examination to prevent future damage, call the office of Dr. John M. Hucklebridge for your appointment today.

In these instances, trust your Plano cosmetic dentist to assist you in achieving your goals. Through a comprehensive exam and open conversation, your cosmetic dentist will help you to express your idea of a perfect smile. The next step is to develop a treatment plan, or a blueprint, to determine the best way to accomplish the mission.

If your goal is to change the way that the teeth look, your dentist may suggest porcelain veneers. Veneers are typically used to conceal a variety of imperfections regarding the front teeth. Since veneers are artistically designed, they can be created to resemble natural tooth structure. Veneers completely cover the front surface of the teeth, providing a beautiful, smooth tooth that is resistant to stain. Veneers are also permanently bonded to the teeth, and strong enough to endure normal eating and drinking.

Veneers are generally placed on the front two, four, or six teeth for the best result. When designed in this manner, your dentist can create teeth that are all similarly shaped and sized. Spaces between the teeth can be closed, and even teeth that are crowded can appear straighter through the use of veneers.

Your cosmetic dentist may recommend dental implants if tooth replacement is creating a negative impact on your smile. Gaps and spaces due to a missing tooth are tough to ignore. Although missing teeth are often viewed from a functional perspective, they can also be detrimental to your smile. In addition to replacing missing teeth for chewing purposes, implants are also the most beautiful and conservative solution available.

If you’ve been feeling that your smile could use a makeover, or if you’re unsure about how to improve your smile, call our Plano cosmetic dentistry team at 972-398-2550 for your appointment.

From the perspective of the implant dentist, the implant is the closest simulation to a natural tooth. The titanium post that anchors to the jaw bone is highly compatible with the human body. The physical connection between the implant and the bone can virtually stop bone loss. The versatility of the restorations that are placed on top of the implant can enable the dentist to create tooth replacement solutions ranging from a single crown to an entire denture! After five years, most dentists report the implants to have a success rate greater than 98%.

From the patient’s perspective, it can be devastating to lose even a single tooth. The damage to your confidence, health, and appearance are noticeable immediately. By having a dental implant placed, most patients enjoy the renewed sense of security that comes with having a full set of teeth. By restoring the chewing ability, implants can improve your diet and allow you to enjoy the foods that you love. Smiling and laughing without inhibition is a factor that contributes to the success rate of the implant.

Many patients also report a high rate of satisfaction based on the permanent and conservative nature of the implant. Since the implant is anchored to the bone, there are no removable parts or special cleaning instructions. There are no special pastes or brushes required for normal maintenance. Once in place, the implant can be cared for as though it were a natural tooth.

Unfortunately, these are factors that are difficult to measure in a clinical trial. The overall satisfaction with the procedure from the implant dentist and the patient perspective may be critical to your decision to choose an implant. It’s nice to know that there is a solution that has positively impacted the lives of millions of patients, with more patients choosing implants each day. Dr. John M. Hucklebridge, your implant dentist in Plano, is excited to share the benefits of implants with you. Why not schedule an appointment today?

What are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are located in the back of the mouth. Also known as the Third Molars, they are the last teeth to develop, generally between the ages of 15 and 20 years old.

Do wisdom teeth have to be removed?

If your dentist recognizes that you do not have enough room in your mouth for your third molars to erupt properly, you may be advised to have them removed. Also, when the teeth are not functional or cannot be cleaned easily, the teeth are considered to be impacted, and the recommendation is to have them removed.

What are some common types of impacted wisdom teeth?

Soft tissue impacted – (the tooth remains totally or partially under the gum tissue and cannot be properly cleaned).

Partial bony impaction – (a portion of the tooth remains below the bone, proper cleaning is impossible).

Complete bony impaction – (the tooth remains totally below the jaw bone and requires advanced removal procedures).

What if the wisdom teeth are not removed?

If the impacted wisdom teeth are not removed, any number of complications may arise. These include:

Damage to other teeth – (As the wisdom teeth shift within the jaw bone, the health of the neighboring teeth can be compromised.)

Infection – (When the area surrounding the wisdom tooth cannot be cleaned, an infection may develop, harming the gum tissue and causing cavities.)

Cyst – (A fluid-filled space, called a cyst, forms in the jaw bone around the impacted tooth, causing damage to the bone.)

Crowding – (Wisdom teeth can push neighboring teeth together causing crowding, which jeopardizes both the health of the teeth and previous orthodontic treatment.)

How will I feel after surgery?

Post-operative instructions will be discussed after surgery. Although each patient responds to surgery differently, you should expect a recovery period of two to four days. You may experience drowsiness, swelling, and some discomfort during the first three days. By the third or fourth day, you should be able to resume some of your normal activities.

In the field of dentistry, technological advancements have improved the ease and efficiency of many dental procedures including oral surgery. Make plans to discuss the ways that our Plano dentist can make your wisdom teeth procedure a pleasant experience.

Veneers can be used to correct a variety of flaws in the smile. They can fill in unattractive gaps or smooth out a crooked stretch of teeth.  Veneers may reshape a chipped or broken tooth or lengthen an unusually short one. Of course, veneers can also simply whiten and brighten teeth.

The veneer process is relatively quick and easy on the patient.  Before placing your veneers, your cosmetic dentist will first shave a thin layer of enamel from your teeth to make room for them. Then, the dentist will hold the veneer in place over the tooth briefly to ensure that the veneer’s shape and shade fit in with the rest of your smile. After those preliminary steps have been completed, the dentist will attach the veneers to the teeth using bonding material.

The material used to make porcelain veneers is remarkably durable. Veneers can last for a decade, sometimes even longer, as long as they are cared for properly. Following a regular oral hygiene routine at home will be essential to the long-term health of your veneers.

If you’ve noticed some changes in your smile as the years have passed, consider porcelain veneers as a method for restoring your smile.

Once you realize the importance of saving your damaged teeth, how do you go about restoring the tooth’s natural look and function?

A dental crown (also known as a “cap”) is a restoration that completely covers and protects the tooth. Typically made of porcelain and/or metal, the crown provides strength and stability to a compromised tooth. The shape, shade, and size of the crown are determined by the patient and the dentist. You should expect a crown that blends nicely into your smile. Once in place, the crown is permanently cemented and can be treated as a natural tooth in terms of brushing and flossing.

When it comes to function, nothing is better than your own tooth. Consider a crown to be your natural tooth as well. You can expect to eat and drink normally, with no worries about harming the crown. Your crown will be strong and stable, able to withstand chewing and biting effortlessly.

Enlist the help and expertise of Dr. John M. Hucklebridge, your Dallas dentist, to restore and preserve your teeth. If a dental crown is indicated, partner with your dentist to determine the type of crown that is best for you.

Choosing Invisalign

Invisalign treatment provides a different option in orthodontics that appeals to many adults. Invisalign treatment uses a series of clear plastic aligner trays to gradually adjust the position of the teeth over a period of time. The trays are practically invisible while you are wearing them. They can also be removed for special occasions and while you are eating.

Invisalign treatment is appropriate for many types of misalignment. More severe issues might require traditional orthodontic approaches, so be sure to consult with your dentist to determine if Invisalign is the best choice for you.

How Invisalign Works

Your Invisalign treatment begins in the dental office, where a detailed examination is performed, digital images are taken of your teeth and a series of photos are taken. Using these images, the laboratory will create a series of 3-D scans. These scans called “Clin Check” represent what your teeth look like now, what they should look like after treatment, and all phases in between. From these scans, an offsite dental lab will create your Invisalign trays.

Each individual tray will move your teeth a small amount. After about two weeks, you will switch to the next tray in the sequence. By the time you reach the last tray, your teeth will have moved to their desired position. After treatment is completed, you may need to wear a retainer for a period of time to keep your teeth in position.

While you are wearing the trays, it is important to remove them while you are eating, clean them thoroughly, and be sure to wear them at least twenty-two hours every day. Following these guidelines will help ensure that you receive the best possible results from your treatment.

For information on treatment using Invisalign in Plano, please contact the office of Dr. John M. Hucklebridge who is an Invisalign Preferred Provider.

What a Dental Implant Does

A dental implant effectively takes the place of the tooth root that is removed along with your tooth. The implant is a titanium screw that is placed directly into your jawbone where the missing teeth were originally. Placing implants requires a surgical procedure and a healing process of 3 to 6 months. In others, the implant and replacement tooth can be placed immediately after a tooth is removed, leading to a simpler procedure and a less time to recover.

The implant itself is then used to support a prosthetic tooth that is custom made to complement your other teeth in color, size and shape. Dental implants are permanent and function very much like your natural teeth.

Advantages of Dental Implants

One of the major advantages of dental implants is that they not only replace missing teeth but they help retain bone that would otherwise resorb or diminish due to the tooth removal in your mouth. A common complaint of denture wearers is that dentures can shift, slide and even fall out at inopportune moments. This can be both uncomfortable and embarrassing. Implants can help anchor dentures to the jawbone and will  help your denture stay in place.

Because the implant dentist places the implants directly into the bone, the implant functions as a replacement for the tooth root. In this capacity, it not only anchors the replacement tooth, but also helps stimulate growth in the jawbone, keeping your jaw strong and healthy.

If you have lost one or more teeth, dental implants could be the best long term choice for tooth replacement. Also, if you have been wearing dentures and find them uncomfortable or inconvenient, consider dental implants as an alternative.

For more information about dental implants in Plano, please contact John M. Hucklebridge, D.D.S F.A.G.D., an experienced implant dentist who can provide extensive information on how implants work and what they can do for you.