Patient Information
Below are some common questions we're asked. If you still have more questions after browsing below, hit the chat button in the right hand corner and reach out to us.
Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common and sometimes embarrassing condition that affects everyone occasionally, especially in the morning. The primary cause is bacterial buildup, often on the back of the tongue, but it can also result from other factors like poor oral hygiene, certain foods, or medical conditions.
Common Causes of Bad Breath
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Morning Dryness: Reduced saliva flow during sleep allows bacteria to grow.
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Foods: Garlic, onions, and other odor-causing foods release compounds that travel to the lungs and are exhaled.
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Poor Oral Hygiene: Food particles and plaque promote bacterial growth.
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Gum Disease: Bacteria and debris trapped under inflamed gums.
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Dental Issues: Cavities or poorly fitting dental appliances.
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Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Caused by medications, mouth breathing, or salivary gland problems.
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Tobacco Use: Dries the mouth and promotes odor.
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Dieting: Ketones released while burning fat can cause bad breath.
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Dehydration or Missed Meals: Reduced saliva flow leads to bacterial buildup.
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Medical Conditions: Diabetes, sinus infections, liver/kidney problems, and respiratory illnesses.
Tips to Prevent Bad Breath
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Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily, floss, and clean your tongue with a brush or scraper. Replace your toothbrush every 2-3 months, and clean dentures or removable bridges thoroughly.
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Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Schedule cleanings and check-ups at least twice a year, or more frequently if you have gum disease.
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Stay Hydrated: Drink water frequently to keep your mouth moist and wash away bacteria.
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Quit Tobacco: Ask your dentist for resources to help break the habit.
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Use Antiseptic Mouthwash: Look for rinses that kill bacteria rather than just masking odors.
If bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, consult your dentist. They can identify underlying dental causes or refer you to a physician for further evaluation and treatment. Identifying the root cause of bad breath is key to maintaining fresh breath and a confident smile.
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Brushing and flossing are essential for controlling plaque and bacteria, which are the primary causes of tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria, food debris, and saliva that forms on teeth and gums. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), leading to gum and bone damage, and potentially causing periodontal disease. Regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing are the best ways to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Toothbrushing Tips
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Brush at least twice daily, especially before bed, with an ADA-approved soft-bristle brush and toothpaste.
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Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and use gentle, circular motions.
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Clean all tooth surfaces, including the outer, inner, and biting areas.
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Use the brush tip for the inside of front teeth and brush your tongue to remove bacteria.
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Electric toothbrushes are highly effective for plaque removal and easy to use—let the brush do the work for you.
Flossing Tips
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Floss daily to clean between teeth and under the gumline where brushes can’t reach.
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Use about 12-16 inches of floss, wrapping most around your middle fingers and leaving 2 inches to work with.
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Gently guide the floss between teeth using a sawing motion, curving it into a “C” shape around each tooth to clean effectively.
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Floss holders are helpful for those who find traditional floss challenging to use.
Rinsing
Rinse your mouth with water after brushing or meals if brushing isn’t possible. Consult your dentist about using over-the-counter mouth rinses to ensure they are suitable for your needs.
Regular brushing and flossing, combined with routine dental checkups, are key to preventing dental disease and keeping your smile healthy.
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Silver fillings, or amalgams, have been used in dentistry for over 100 years. Made from a blend of copper, silver, tin, zinc, and mercury, they are durable and cost-effective. However, concerns have been raised about potential health risks due to mercury exposure.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), silver fillings are safe, and studies have found no link between amalgam fillings and health issues. Organizations like the CDC, FDA, and World Health Organization also support their safety. Allergic reactions to components of silver fillings are extremely rare, with fewer than 100 reported cases despite millions of fillings placed over the decades.
While mercury is toxic at high exposure levels, the ADA states that when combined with other metals in fillings, mercury becomes an inactive, safe substance. For those seeking alternatives, options like composite (tooth-colored), porcelain, and gold fillings are available. Discuss these choices with your dentist to determine the best option for your needs.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings, recommended at least twice a year, are vital for preventing dental problems and maintaining healthy teeth and gums. These visits go beyond just cleaning your teeth—they involve a thorough evaluation of your overall oral health.
What happens during a dental visit?
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Medical History Review: Updates on medical conditions and medications provide insight into your dental health.
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X-Rays: Essential for detecting decay, bone loss, tumors, cysts, and evaluating tooth and root positions.
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Oral Cancer Screening: A comprehensive check of the face, neck, lips, and oral tissues for any abnormalities.
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Gum Disease Evaluation: Examination of gums and bone for signs of periodontal disease.
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Decay and Restoration Check: Inspection of tooth surfaces, fillings, and crowns for damage or decay.
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Cleaning and Polishing: Removal of hardened plaque (calculus) and soft plaque, followed by teeth polishing to eliminate stains and bacteria.
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Oral Hygiene and Dietary Advice: Personalized recommendations for oral hygiene tools and tips for healthier eating habits.
Regular visits help detect and address issues early, ensuring your smile stays healthy and beautiful. Schedule your next appointment to keep your oral health on track!
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Periodontal disease, or gum disease, affects four out of five people, yet many are unaware they have it because it’s typically painless in its early stages. Regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are essential to detect and address the disease before it progresses.
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease begins when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, food debris, and saliva, builds up on teeth and gums. The bacteria produce toxins that inflame the gums and gradually destroy bone. Proper brushing and flossing are crucial for preventing this damage.
Risk Factors for Periodontal Disease
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Tobacco Use: Increases plaque and tartar buildup.
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Dental Issues: Crowded teeth, defective fillings, or poorly fitting bridges can trap bacteria.
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Medications: Steroids, cancer drugs, and some blood pressure medications can cause dry mouth, making plaque easier to adhere to teeth.
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Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, puberty, or oral contraceptives can make gums more sensitive to bacteria.
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Systemic Diseases: Conditions like diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or blood disorders can increase risk.
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Genetics: A family history of tooth loss may predispose individuals to more aggressive forms of gum disease.
Signs and Symptoms
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Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
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Persistent bad breath
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New spaces between teeth or loose teeth
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Pus around teeth and gums
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Receding gums and tenderness
Prevention
Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits are key to reducing the risk of periodontal disease. Early detection and treatment can help protect your gums, teeth, and overall oral health.
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Brushing removes food particles, plaque, and bacteria from most tooth surfaces, but it can’t reach the tight spaces between teeth or under the gumline. These areas are highly susceptible to decay and gum disease, making daily flossing essential for maintaining good oral health.
Flossing cleans between teeth and disrupts plaque colonies, preventing damage to gums, teeth, and bone. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria, food debris, and saliva that produces toxins causing cavities and gum inflammation. When left untreated, plaque hardens into tartar, leading to gum irritation, bone destruction, and the onset of periodontal disease.
How to Floss Properly
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Take 12-16 inches of floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving 2 inches to work with.
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Gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion.
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Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and under the gumline, moving it up and down to clean.
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Use floss holders if conventional floss is difficult to manage.
Daily flossing, combined with regular brushing, is key to preventing tooth decay and gum disease, ensuring a healthy smile for years to come.
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If you’re looking to boost your confidence and enhance your smile, cosmetic dentistry offers a range of treatments to help you achieve a healthier, more radiant appearance. Advances in cosmetic dental materials and techniques make it easier than ever to improve both the health and beauty of your teeth. Whether you need to restore a single tooth or transform your entire smile, there’s a solution for every need.
Popular Cosmetic Procedures
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Teeth Whitening: Brightens teeth stained by age, food, drinks, or smoking, helping you achieve a whiter, refreshed smile.
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Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings: Repair cavities, chipped, or discolored teeth with natural-looking fillings, also used for closing gaps and protecting exposed roots.
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Porcelain Veneers: Custom-made shells bonded to teeth to restore or conceal damage, discoloration, or misalignment, requiring minimal tooth structure removal.
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Porcelain Crowns: Tooth-colored coverings that restore severely damaged or decayed teeth, providing strength and a natural look.
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Dental Implants: Permanent replacements for missing teeth, offering a durable, stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures.
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Orthodontics: Options include traditional braces or clear aligners for discreet and effective teeth straightening.
Whether you’re addressing minor imperfections or seeking a full smile makeover, cosmetic dentistry can help you achieve a beautiful, confident smile. Talk to your dentist about which options are right for you!
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Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin, custom-crafted shells designed to cover the front surfaces of teeth, offering a durable and stain-resistant solution for enhancing your smile. Veneers are an excellent choice for addressing various cosmetic concerns, including:
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Discolored or stained teeth
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Uneven or unwanted gaps
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Chipped, worn, or misshapen teeth
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Slight tooth crowding
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Teeth that are too small or large
The Veneer Process
Getting veneers typically requires two visits. During the first visit, the teeth are prepared by lightly shaping their front surfaces to accommodate the veneers. Impressions are taken and sent to a dental lab, where each veneer is custom-made for optimal shape, color, and fit. At the second visit, the veneers are carefully bonded to the teeth using special dental cements. A specialized light may be used to harden the bond, ensuring a secure and lasting fit.
Porcelain veneers are a highly effective way to achieve a natural, beautiful smile, making them a popular choice for patients seeking dramatic yet subtle improvements to their teeth.
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Teeth whitening has become the most sought-after cosmetic dental treatment, offering a brighter and more radiant smile. While over-the-counter products are available, professional teeth whitening provides far superior and longer-lasting results, ensuring safe and effective enhancement of your natural tooth enamel.
Why Teeth Discolor
Teeth naturally darken over time as the outer enamel wears down, revealing the darker layer underneath. Factors such as aging, smoking, and consuming coffee, tea, or wine can accelerate discoloration. In some cases, childhood medications like tetracycline or excessive fluoride (fluorosis) can lead to deeper stains that may require alternative treatments like veneers or crowns.
Professional Whitening Options
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At-Home Whitening Systems:
Custom-fitted trays filled with a professional-grade gel are worn either twice daily for 30 minutes or overnight. Results are gradual and usually achieved within a few weeks, depending on the severity of staining and desired brightness. -
In-Office Whitening:
Performed in a dental office, this treatment delivers immediate results. A bleaching solution is applied to the teeth while protecting the gums, and a special light may be used to enhance the process. Multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results.
Considerations and Maintenance
Teeth whitening works only on natural tooth enamel, so old fillings, crowns, or other restorations may need replacement to match the new shade. Since whitening is not permanent, touch-ups every few years are recommended to maintain a bright smile. Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity, which typically resolves within a few days to a week after treatment.
Teeth whitening is a safe, simple, and effective way to refresh your smile and boost your confidence. Talk to your dentist to determine the best option for your needs!
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Modern dentistry offers many advanced treatments to preserve natural teeth, making extractions a last resort. However, when a tooth is lost due to injury, decay, or gum disease, timely replacement is essential to prevent cosmetic and dental complications. Missing teeth can cause the jawbone to shrink and neighboring teeth to shift into the empty space, leading to decay, gum disease, jaw joint issues, and changes in your bite and smile.
Tooth Replacement Options
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Removable Bridges: An economical solution for replacing one or more teeth. These appliances, made of artificial teeth with metal clasps, hook onto natural teeth but may not be as aesthetically pleasing due to visible metal parts.
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Fixed Bridges: Permanently anchored to adjacent teeth using crowns. While sturdy and more natural-looking, this option requires reshaping two healthy teeth to support the bridge.
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Dentures: Used when most or all teeth in an arch are missing. These removable artificial teeth closely resemble natural teeth but may require adjustments for a comfortable fit.
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Dental Implants: The most durable and aesthetically pleasing option, implants involve surgically placing an artificial root into the jawbone, topped with a crown. Implants provide a natural look and feel and can also stabilize dentures for better functionality.
If you are missing teeth, consult with us to explore your replacement options. Early intervention can prevent further complications and help maintain your oral health and smile. Together, we’ll find the best solution for your needs.
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Most of us have fillings in our mouths that date back many years and some may have even been placed during our childhood. These fillings may now be old, dark, and unattractive, making us feel self-conscious when we smile, laugh, and talk. Old fillings are not only unattractive, they may also be defective. When a filling is old, the margins (space between the tooth and filling) may eventually open and allow bacteria and food debris to enter, potentially causing dental decay.
Your dentist can check your fillings and evaluate if they are defective and need replacement. Also, if you simply want to replace fillings that are unattractive, you and your dentist can decide which ones should be replaced first and what replacement options would best suit you. There are many state-of-the-art dental filling materials and procedures available today that are quick, painless, and cost effective for replacing old, unattractive or defective fillings.
Options for replacing old, unattractive, or discolored fillings:
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Composite (bonding) fillings - These are tooth-colored fillings that can be closely matched to the color of your existing teeth. They are particularly well suited for use in front teeth or visible parts of teeth and are one of the best ways to improve the health and beauty of your smile.
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Crowns (Caps) - These types of restoration are used when a tooth is too damaged and cannot be repaired with a filling or other type of restoration. A crown is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens the remaining tooth structure and can be made of gold, porcelain, and other tooth-colored materials.
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Inlays/Onlays - These restorations are custom made fillings. They can be made of composite resin, porcelain or gold and are made by a dental laboratory and placed by a dentist. Inlays/onlays are usually best for the posterior chewing surfaces of teeth and are utilized to conservatively repair teeth that have large defective/unattractive fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma.
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Porcelain veneers - Used primarily in the front teeth, veneers are very thin shells of tooth-shaped porcelain that are individually crafted and permanently cemented to the front surface of teeth. They are a great solution for fixing discolored, pitted, shipped, malformed, or slightly crooked teeth. Veneers are also used if you have unwanted spaces. Veneers are very durable, natural looking, and do not stain. This makes veneers a very popular solution for restoring a smile impaired by old, unattractive fillings.
As you can see, there are various options for replacing old, unattractive fillings. These treatments will provide strong, natural, and long-lasting replacement solutions to enhance the health and beauty of your smile.
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Many people don’t realize that periodontal disease (gum disease) can have a significant impact on overall health. As one of the most common infections—more prevalent than the common cold—periodontal disease doesn’t just lead to tooth loss but can also contribute to serious health conditions.
Periodontal disease begins as gingivitis, caused by plaque buildup (a mix of bacteria, food debris, and saliva) that isn’t regularly removed. Over time, the bacteria produce toxins that irritate the gums and eventually destroy the bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, this can result in tooth loss.
Research has linked periodontal disease to several systemic health conditions. Studies suggest that bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream, potentially:
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Contributing to heart disease.
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Increasing the risk of stroke.
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Compromising the health of those with diabetes or respiratory diseases.
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Increasing the risk of preterm, low-birth-weight babies.
While more research is needed to fully understand these connections, there’s enough evidence to show that oral infections can negatively affect overall health.
Protect Your Health with Good Oral Care
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings, along with diligent at-home care and a proper diet, are essential for maintaining a healthy mouth and reducing bacteria. By taking care of your gums and teeth, you can also support your overall health.
Remember: a healthy mouth contributes to a healthy body!
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Even with thorough brushing and flossing, the deep grooves and pits on the chewing surfaces of teeth are difficult to clean. These areas are highly prone to decay, with more than 75% of cavities starting in these grooves. Dental sealants provide a protective solution, forming a smooth barrier over these hard-to-reach surfaces, making them easier to clean and less likely to develop decay.
Who Can Benefit from Sealants?
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Children and Teenagers: Ideal for cavity-prone years (ages 6-16), especially when six-year molars first appear.
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Infants: Occasionally used on baby teeth with deep grooves, especially for cavity-prone children.
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Adults: Recommended for teeth without decay but with deep grooves or pits that are hard to clean.
How Are Sealants Applied?
Sealants are quick and painless to apply. The chewing surface of the tooth is first roughened with a mild acid solution to help the sealant adhere. The sealant material is then painted onto the tooth and hardened, sometimes using a special light, forming a strong bond to the tooth surface.
Post-Treatment Care
To maintain sealants, avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods like ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels. Sealants will be checked for wear and chipping during regular dental visits.
Combined with good oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and routine check-ups, sealants are a highly effective way to prevent tooth decay and protect your smile.
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Each year, more than 5 million teeth are knocked out, but acting quickly and calmly can make all the difference. A knocked-out tooth can often be saved and reimplanted if proper steps are taken immediately.
Steps to Save a Knocked-Out Tooth
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Handle the Tooth Carefully: Pick up the tooth by the crown (chewing part) only. Avoid touching the roots.
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Gently Clean the Tooth: If dirty, rinse it with saliva, whole milk, or water—do NOT use soap or chemicals or scrub the tooth.
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Act Quickly: Get to a dentist within 30 minutes. The sooner the tooth is reimplanted, the greater the chance of success.
Transporting the Tooth
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Reinsert Into the Socket: If possible, place the tooth back into its socket and gently bite down on gauze or a wet tea bag to hold it in place.
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Use a Safe Storage Method: If reinsertion isn’t possible, store the tooth in a container with saliva, whole milk, or under your tongue. Keep it moist at all times—never use a tissue or cloth for transport.
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Consider a Save-A-Tooth Kit: Available at many pharmacies, this kit includes a travel case and fluid to safely transport the tooth.
Preventing Tooth Loss
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Wear a mouthguard during sports.
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Always use a seatbelt.
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Avoid chewing hard items like ice or popcorn kernels.
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Stay away from risky behaviors like fighting.
Knowing these steps and acting quickly can make the difference between saving or losing a tooth. Be prepared, and protect your smile!
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Straight teeth not only improve the appearance of your smile but also enhance functionality, making chewing, biting, and speaking more effective. A straight smile boosts confidence and helps prevent dental issues that can arise from misaligned teeth, such as gum disease and uneven wear.
Common Issues Linked to Crooked Teeth
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Periodontitis (Gum Disease): Crooked teeth are harder to clean, allowing bacteria, plaque, and debris to build up and increase the risk of gum disease. Straight teeth are easier to maintain and keep healthy.
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Temporomandibular Disorder (TMJ): Misaligned teeth can lead to improper jaw alignment, causing pain, headaches, and jaw dysfunction.
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Tooth Injury: Protruding crooked teeth are more vulnerable to injury, while straight teeth form a stronger, more protective alignment.
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Uneven Wear: Crooked teeth place uneven pressure during chewing, which can lead to injury and faster wear. Straight teeth evenly distribute the workload, improving both durability and aesthetics.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
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Braces: Fixed braces use brackets and archwires to gradually shift teeth into alignment. They are effective for most types of malocclusion and can be placed on the front or back of the teeth.
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Aligning Trays: Removable trays are a great option for less severe cases. They gradually move teeth into place and are replaced every few weeks during treatment.
If you’re considering straightening your teeth, consult with your orthodontist to determine the best treatment option for your needs. A straighter smile leads to improved oral health and enhanced confidence!
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Facts and Questions (FAQ)
Insurance and Financing
For your convenience, we accept cash, personal checks, money orders, and most major credit cards. Payment is expected at the time services are performed. Feel free to contact our office if your treatment plan requires more comprehensive dental work and you want to discuss financial arrangements
Allen Dental utilizes a PPO network plan keeps dental care simple and affordable. You get discounted rates with network dentists, plus coverage like 100% for cleanings, 80% for fillings, and 50% for crowns. With annual limits around $1,000–$2,000, it’s an easy way to save and smile!
While we accept a wide range of dental insurance plans, to ensure a seamless experience, we encourage you to book an appointment or reach out to us via chat, phone, or email to confirm that we work with your specific insurance provider.
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