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Dentures for Baton Rouge, LA: 5 Common Mistakes People Make and How to Avoid Them

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 14:07:21 GMT

At Rabel Family Dentistry, we help patients restore confidence and function with high quality dentures for Baton Rouge, LA . While dentures are a reliable solution, many people unintentionally make mistakes that shorten their lifespan or affect comfort. Understanding these common issues helps you protect your smile and avoid unnecessary complications. If you have questions or need guidance, call us today at 225-775-0160 to speak directly with our team.

Choosing dentures is a big step toward improving your oral health and quality of life. In this blog, we invite you to explore the most common mistakes people make with dentures and learn simple, practical ways to avoid them for long lasting results.

Mistake 1: Not Cleaning Dentures Properly

One of the most common mistakes we see is improper cleaning. Dentures require daily care to prevent bacteria buildup, stains, and unpleasant odors. Skipping proper cleaning can also lead to gum irritation and infections.

When you do not clean your dentures thoroughly, plaque and debris accumulate quickly. Over time, this can affect both your oral health and the appearance of your dentures.

-To avoid this, we recommend:
• Gently brushing dentures daily with a soft brush.
• Rinsing after meals to remove food particles.
• Soaking dentures overnight in a dentist approved solution.

By following these steps, you protect your investment and maintain a healthier smile.

Mistake 2: Wearing Dentures All Day and Night

Many patients believe wearing dentures continuously improves comfort, but this habit can actually harm your gums. Your oral tissues need time to rest and recover.

Wearing dentures twenty four hours a day increases the risk of irritation, inflammation, and even infections such as denture stomatitis. Removing them at night allows your gums to breathe and stay healthy.

We always advise removing dentures before sleeping and cleaning them thoroughly. This simple habit can make a significant difference in your long term oral health.

Mistake 3: Using the Wrong Cleaning Products

Another frequent issue is using products that are not designed for dentures. Regular toothpaste, bleach, or harsh chemicals can damage the material and reduce durability.

-Using the wrong products can cause:
• Surface scratches that trap bacteria.
• Discoloration over time.
• Weakening of the denture structure.

Instead, we recommend using products specifically made for dentures. If you are unsure, our team at Rabel Family Dentistry can guide you toward safe and effective options for your dentures.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Fit and Comfort Issues

Dentures should feel secure and comfortable. If you notice slipping, discomfort, or sore spots, it is important not to ignore these signs.

Over time, your jawbone and gums naturally change shape, which can affect how your dentures fit. Ignoring these changes can lead to difficulty eating, speaking issues, and irritation.

We encourage patients to schedule an evaluation if they experience any discomfort. Adjustments or relining can restore proper fit and improve daily comfort. For patients considering full dentures, ensuring a precise fit from the beginning is essential.

Mistake 5: Skipping Regular Dental Visits

Even with dentures, regular dental visits remain essential. Some people assume they no longer need checkups, but this can lead to undetected problems.

-Routine visits allow us to:
• Examine your gums and oral tissues.
• Check the condition and fit of your dentures.
• Identify any early signs of oral health concerns.

According to American Dental Association , ongoing dental care plays a key role in maintaining overall oral health, even for denture wearers.

Consequences of These Common Mistakes

When these mistakes go unaddressed, they can lead to serious consequences. Poor hygiene and improper care increase the risk of infections, bad breath, and gum disease. Wearing dentures without breaks can irritate tissues and create long term discomfort.

Using incorrect products may damage your dentures, leading to costly replacements. Ignoring fit issues can affect your ability to eat and speak confidently. Skipping dental visits may allow minor issues to develop into more complex conditions.

At Rabel Family Dentistry, we focus on prevention and education so you can enjoy reliable and comfortable dentures without unnecessary setbacks.

Simple Fixes and Best Practices for Long Term Success

Maintaining dentures does not have to be complicated. With a few consistent habits, you can extend their lifespan and improve your comfort.

Start with a daily cleaning routine that removes debris and bacteria. Always remove dentures at night to allow your gums to rest. Use only recommended cleaning products to protect the material.

Pay attention to how your dentures feel. If something changes, it is better to address it early rather than wait. Staying proactive helps you avoid discomfort and maintain confidence in your smile.

When to Seek Professional Help

Knowing when to seek professional care is just as important as daily maintenance. If you experience persistent discomfort, difficulty chewing, or visible damage, it is time to schedule an appointment.

We also recommend visiting us if your dentures feel loose or if you notice changes in your oral tissues. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure your dentures continue to function properly.

At Rabel Family Dentistry, we provide personalized care and guidance tailored to your needs. Whether you are new to dentures or have worn them for years, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Protect Your Smile With Dentures for Baton Rouge, LA

Maintaining your dentures properly is essential for comfort, function, and confidence. At Rabel Family Dentistry, we are committed to helping you avoid common mistakes and achieve long lasting results. If you are ready to improve your oral health, we encourage you to visit our contact page or call us today at 225-775-0160 to schedule your consultation.

Top 9 Popular Dental Services Offered by a General Dentist

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 14:38:05 GMT

When searching for a general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA , it’s important to choose one who offers a wide range of high-quality services. At Rabel Family Dental, our patients benefit from the latest technology, a gentle touch, and a friendly atmosphere. We believe dental visits should keep you comfortable while helping you achieve a bright, healthy smile. Here are the top 9 general dentist services provided in most practices and why each matters for your long-term oral health.

1. Routine Dental Exams

A regular visit to your general dentist is one of the most important habits for protecting your smile. During routine exams, your dentist carefully checks for early warning signs of cavities, gum disease, and even oral cancer. This thorough check gives you peace of mind and helps prevent minor dental issues from turning into major problems. It’s much easier to address concerns early than to wait until they become painful or expensive to treat. For more tips on maintaining daily oral health, visit this helpful guide to taking care of your teeth and mouth .

2. Professional Teeth Cleanings

Even if you’re brushing and flossing well at home, plaque and tartar can still build up in hard-to-reach spots. That’s why professional cleanings are so valuable. They remove bacteria and buildup that cause gum disease and tooth decay. Clean, polished teeth also feel and look better, helping you maintain fresh breath and a confident, healthy smile year-round.

3. Tooth-Colored Fillings

No one wants a visible reminder of a cavity. Thankfully, a general dentist uses tooth-colored filling materials that blend in perfectly with your natural tooth. Fillings repair damage caused by tooth decay, restoring your tooth’s shape and strength so you can chew comfortably again. These fillings are strong, long-lasting, and virtually unnoticeable once placed.

4. Dental Crowns

Sometimes a tooth becomes so damaged by decay, cracks, or wear that a simple filling won’t be enough. In these cases, a crown offers an effective solution. A general dentist places a custom-made crown, which is a sturdy cap that protects your tooth and restores its normal appearance and function. Crowns play a big role in saving teeth that might otherwise need removal, helping you keep your natural smile as long as possible.

5. Teeth Whitening

Want to feel more confident in your smile? Teeth whitening is one of the most requested services at any general dentist office. Over time, teeth can become stained from coffee, tea, red wine, or tobacco. Your dentist offers safe and professional whitening that lifts stains without damaging your teeth. A brighter smile can boost self-esteem and make a great first impression.

6. Preventive Treatments (Fluoride & Sealants)

Good oral health starts with prevention. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to cavities for children and adults alike. Sealants are applied to the grooves of back teeth, locking out food and bacteria that cause decay. By getting regular preventive treatments from your general dentist, you can avoid many dental problems before they even begin.

7. Dental X-Rays

Not all dental issues are visible on the surface. Dental X-rays help your general dentist see inside your teeth and jaw, catching problems like decay between teeth, hidden infections, or bone loss. Digital X-rays today are fast, comfortable, and use minimal radiation. With this technology, your dentist can create clear, detailed images that guide treatment and make sure nothing gets missed.

8. Gum Disease Treatment

Healthy gums are critical to having strong, lasting teeth. If you have signs of gum disease, such as redness, swelling, or bleeding, your general dentist may recommend a deeper cleaning called scaling and root planing. This treatment removes buildup below the gum line and helps your gums heal. Managing gum disease early protects your teeth and even supports your overall health.

9. Emergency Dental Care

Life happens, and dental emergencies can strike at any time. Broken teeth, lost fillings, sudden pain, or injuries need immediate professional care. Your general dentist is trained to handle urgent dental problems and relieve discomfort quickly. Fast action can save a tooth and prevent long-term damage. It’s comforting to know that help is close by when you need it most.

Why These Services Matter

Seeing a general dentist for these key services helps you maintain great oral health while avoiding bigger, more costly problems. Prevention and early treatment mean less stress, less pain, and more time enjoying life with your family. Restorative care helps you eat, speak, and smile with confidence every day. Cosmetic options allow you to put your best face forward. Best of all, these services are tailored to meet each patient’s needs, providing comfort and peace of mind at every visit.

Advanced Dental Care for Baton Rouge Families

A skilled dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, makes use of modern dental tools and up-to-date methods to deliver safe, efficient, and gentle care. Whether you need an exam, filling, or urgent help with a dental injury, you should always feel listened to and respected in the dental chair. Great dentists are focused on your comfort, offer flexible options for every treatment, and build lasting relationships with their patients.

Book Your Appointment for a Healthier Smile!

If you’re ready to take the next step toward lasting oral health, Rabel Family Dental is here for you. We proudly serve families throughout Baton Rouge, LA, with advanced technology, personalized care, and a relaxing environment. Contact us through our website to schedule your appointment today, and discover why we’re a trusted choice for all your dental care needs!

How to Determine If You’re a Candidate for Dental Implants

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 07:57:08 GMT

Losing one or more teeth impacts more than just your appearance, it affects your ability to chew, speak clearly, and maintain proper jaw alignment. Over time, untreated tooth loss can lead to bone resorption, shifting of adjacent teeth, and even changes in facial structure. Dental implants offer a scientifically proven, long-lasting solution that restores both aesthetics and function by mimicking the natural tooth root. But not everyone is immediately suited for this advanced treatment.

Understanding whether you meet the physiological and behavioral benchmarks for dental implants in Baton Rouge, LA, is crucial before proceeding. If you’re exploring your options, a qualified dental professional can assess your oral health and determine the best course of action.

These are 3 essential criteria to determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implants:

1. Healthy Gums

One of the most critical prerequisites for successful implant placement is healthy gum tissue . Periodontal disease—especially in its advanced stages—creates an inflammatory environment that interferes with osseointegration, the process by which the implant fuses with the jawbone. Patients with active gum disease must undergo periodontal therapy before implant surgery can be considered.

Left untreated, infection can compromise healing and increase the risk of early implant failure. Signs of healthy gums include firm pink tissue, absence of bleeding during brushing, and no persistent bad breath. Regular professional cleanings and at-home oral hygiene are essential for maintaining this baseline. When evaluating eligibility for dental implants, clinicians always prioritize periodontal stability.

2. Adequate Bone Density and Jaw Structure

Because dental implants are anchored directly into the jawbone, sufficient bone volume is non-negotiable. After tooth extraction, the surrounding alveolar bone begins to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation—a process known as bone resorption. Over time, this can leave insufficient structure to support a standard implant. Dentists use 3D cone beam imaging to assess bone height, width, and density in precise detail. If bone loss is present but not severe, bone grafting may be recommended to rebuild the site. This procedure involves placing donor or synthetic bone material to encourage new growth.

In select cases, zygomatic or pterygoid implants—which anchor into alternative facial structures—may be used. Regardless of the approach, bone quality remains a cornerstone of candidacy for dental implants.

3. Smoking and Systemic Health

Beyond anatomical considerations, behavioral and systemic factors significantly influence implant outcomes. Smoking is one of the most well-documented risk factors: nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing oxygen delivery to healing tissues and impairing the body’s immune response. Smokers face up to a 20% higher failure rate compared to non-smokers.

Additionally, uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications (such as bisphosphonates) can affect healing and bone metabolism. That said, many of these conditions do not automatically disqualify a patient, they simply require closer monitoring and preoperative optimization. Full medical disclosure during consultation ensures that risks are properly assessed. For those serious about long-term success, addressing modifiable habits like tobacco use is a critical step toward qualifying for dental implants.

Common Clinical Indications for Implant Placement

Dental implants are not just for replacing a single missing tooth. They are widely recommended in several common scenarios:

· Single-tooth gaps, where a standalone crown on an implant avoids grinding down healthy adjacent teeth (as required for traditional bridges).

· Multiple missing teeth, where implant-supported bridges eliminate the need for removable partial dentures.

· Full-arch edentulism, where as few as four to six implants can securely anchor a fixed prosthesis, replacing an entire arch of teeth without slippage or adhesives.

· Failing dentures, which often result from progressive bone loss, leading to poor fit and discomfort. Implant-retained overdentures restore stability and chewing efficiency.

In each case, dental implants provide a functional and aesthetic advantage over conventional alternatives, with success rates exceeding 95% over 10 years when placed in suitable candidates.

Alternative Solutions for Non-Ideal Candidates

Not every patient is ready for standard implants on day one, but that doesn’t mean permanent tooth replacement is out of reach. For those with moderate bone deficiency, mini dental implants offer a less invasive option with a narrower diameter, often used to stabilize lower dentures. Alternatively, all-on-4 or all-on-6 protocols strategically place longer implants at angles to maximize existing bone, sometimes eliminating the need for grafting. If significant bone loss is present, sinus lifts (for the upper jaw) or ridge augmentation (for the lower jaw) can reconstruct the foundation over several months.

These preparatory procedures are routine in modern implant dentistry and expand accessibility to a broader range of patients. While these paths may extend the treatment timeline, they ultimately lead to the same goal: a durable, natural-looking restoration.

The Importance of Personalized Evaluation

Candidacy for dental implants is never a one-size-fits-all determination. A thorough assessment includes clinical examination, digital radiographs, 3D imaging, and a review of medical and dental history. This comprehensive approach identifies not only readiness, but also potential risks that could be mitigated before surgery. Many patients assume they’re ineligible due to age or past dental issues, yet advances in bone regeneration and implant design have made treatment possible for far more individuals than ever before. Regular follow-ups and meticulous planning are what transform complex cases into successful outcomes.

Leave the Dental Implants to Us

If you’re considering tooth replacement and want to know whether dental implants in Baton Rouge, LA, are right for you, begin with a professional evaluation. For those in need of further guidance or a second opinion, Rabel Family Dental offers no-charge consultations to assess your unique situation. With expertise in implant dentistry and advanced diagnostic technology, they help patients make informed decisions about their oral health. Call 225-775-0160 to schedule your appointment today.

How to Help Your Child Feel Calm at Their Visit to a General Dentist

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 07:36:46 GMT

Taking your child to their first dental appointment can be a daunting experience for both parents and little ones. At Rabel Family Dental, we understand the importance of creating a welcoming and reassuring environment for pediatric patients. If you live in Baton Rouge, LA, and are preparing for your child’s first dental visit, this guide is for you. Learn how a general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, can help set a strong foundation for your child’s oral health while keeping anxiety at bay.

The Role of a General Dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, for Pediatric Patients

Understanding Pediatric Dental Care at Rabel Family Dental

Visiting a general dentist , isn’t just about cleaning teeth; it’s about fostering a lifelong relationship between your child and their oral health. Pediatric care at Rabel Family Dental is designed to be a gentle introduction to dentistry. Our caring professionals specialize in addressing the unique needs of young patients through compassionate care and kid-friendly approaches.

We know children may feel nervous about the unfamiliar sounds and sights of a dental office. That’s why our general dentist takes time to explain each step in a gentle, age-appropriate manner. We work closely with parents to establish a positive dental routine that supports your child’s growth and development.

Preparation Tips for Parents: Setting Your Child Up for Success

What to Bring and How to Talk to Your Child Before Their Visit

Before heading to the general dentist, preparation is key to helping your child feel calm. Bring along your child’s favorite toy or blanket to provide a comforting sense of familiarity. Don’t forget to pack any medical or dental records if you have them, this helps our team understand your child’s history.

When talking to your child about the appointment, keep the conversation positive and simple. Avoid using words that might create fear, such as “pain,” “hurt,” or “shot.” Instead, focus on fun aspects like the “tooth train” or “sparkly teeth.” Reading children’s books about going to the dentist or watching kid-friendly videos can also familiarize them with what to expect.

Explain that the dentist is a friendly helper whose job is to keep their teeth clean and healthy. Encouragement and reassurance go a long way in easing anxiety. Remember, your calm demeanor will reflect on your child.

What to Expect During the First Visit

The first visit to a general dentist often involves a gentle exam to check your child’s teeth, gums, and bite. The dentist may count teeth, look for any signs of cavities, and clean the teeth with a soft brush. This visit is about getting comfortable and establishing a routine, rather than performing invasive treatments.

Parents are encouraged to be present during the visit to provide comfort. The dental team will explain each part of the checkup and answer any questions you or your child may have. At Rabel Family Dental, the goal is to create a positive experience so your child looks forward to future appointments.

Comfort Features at Rabel Family Dental: Creating a Child-Friendly Environment

Friendly Staff and Gentle Explanations Make a Difference

At Rabel Family Dental, our friendly staff is trained to engage with children in a warm and patient manner. We understand that kids can sense anxiety, which is why we approach each child with kindness and clear, gentle explanations. This approach helps reduce fear and builds trust.

The office environment itself is designed to be inviting for children. Our waiting area often features toys and books tailored to young patients. During the appointment, distractions like music or cartoons can help your child relax while the dentist works.

Why Choosing a Trusted Dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, Matters for Your Child’s Lifelong Oral Health

Building a Relationship That Lasts

Selecting a trusted dentist is one of the most important decisions parents make for their child’s health. A reputable general dentist doesn’t just address immediate dental issues but also educates families about proactive care.

Starting dental visits early promotes good habits like brushing and flossing and helps prevent cavities and other problems. With consistent care from a dependable dental provider like Rabel Family Dental, your child can develop confidence and positive feelings about oral health.

Peace of Mind for Parents

Choosing a general dentist who values child-friendly care means more than just clean teeth. It means peace of mind knowing that your child’s comfort and well-being come first. Our team works in partnership with you to ensure each visit is stress-free and effective.

By entrusting your child’s oral health to Rabel Family Dental, you are investing in a future of bright smiles and healthy habits.

Every child deserves a calm and positive dental experience, and at Rabel Family Dental, we are proud to be a trusted general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, for families. If you’re looking for a caring team that welcomes young patients and supports parents every step of the way, contact us today.

Dentist for Baton Rouge, LA: 5 Signs You Need a Dental Visit

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 22:18:47 GMT

Visiting a trusted dentist for Baton Rouge, LA is crucial for keeping your smile healthy and preventing future dental problems. At Rabel Family Dentistry, we know that oral health issues often start quietly, and catching them early can save you pain, time, and costly procedures. Call us today at 225-775-0160 to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier smile.

In this article, we’ll explore five key signs that indicate it’s time for a dental visit and how early intervention can protect your smile.

1. Tooth Sensitivity or Pain

One of the first signs that you may need to see a dentist for Baton Rouge, LA is increased tooth sensitivity or persistent pain. Sensitivity when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods can indicate enamel erosion, cavities, or even early gum disease. At Rabel Family Dentistry, we perform thorough examinations to identify the root cause of sensitivity and recommend targeted solutions, including fluoride treatments, dental sealants, or restorative procedures.

Ignoring these early symptoms can lead to more serious problems, such as tooth decay or infections, which require more invasive and costly treatments. Routine visits ensure small issues are managed before they escalate.

2. Bleeding or Swollen Gums

Gum health is a critical aspect of overall oral care. Bleeding or swollen gums are often a sign of gingivitis or early periodontal disease. If you notice your gums bleed when brushing or flossing, it’s time to schedule a visit with a trusted dentist for Baton Rouge, LA.

At Rabel Family Dentistry, our skilled team provides professional cleanings and gum evaluations, educating patients on proper oral hygiene techniques. Early intervention can reverse gum disease and prevent complications like tooth loss or bone deterioration.

3. Persistent Bad Breath

Chronic bad breath, medically known as halitosis, is another signal that something may be wrong in your mouth. While occasional bad breath is common, persistent odor may indicate gum disease, tooth decay, or bacterial buildup. Consulting a dentist for Baton Rouge, LA helps identify the underlying cause and allows for prompt treatment.

Our team at Rabel Family Dentistry utilizes advanced diagnostics to detect oral health issues contributing to bad breath. By addressing these concerns early, we can restore fresh breath and protect your overall oral health.

4. Loose or Shifting Teeth

Adults rarely experience natural tooth movement. If you notice that your teeth are becoming loose or shifting, this can be a sign of advanced gum disease or bone loss. These changes require immediate attention from a professional dentist for Baton Rouge, LA.

Rabel Family Dentistry offers comprehensive periodontal evaluations and treatment plans to stabilize teeth and preserve your smile. Timely intervention can prevent further damage, maintaining both the function and appearance of your teeth.

5. Changes in Your Bite or Jaw Pain

Discomfort while chewing, jaw pain, or changes in your bite can signal issues such as TMJ disorders, bruxism (teeth grinding), or misaligned teeth. A consultation with a dentist for Baton Rouge, LA ensures that these problems are addressed promptly, preventing more severe complications in the future.

At Rabel Family Dentistry, our team provides personalized care and a variety of treatment options, including night guards for bruxism, bite adjustments, and referrals to specialized care when needed. Visiting a trusted dentist for Baton Rouge, LA regularly allows us to monitor changes in your bite and maintain your overall oral health, ensuring lasting comfort and a healthy smile.

Preventive Care and Early Intervention

At Rabel Family Dentistry, we strongly believe that preventive care is the cornerstone of a healthy smile. Routine dental exams, professional cleanings, and patient education allow us to detect issues before they become serious. Seeing a reliable dentist for Baton Rouge, LA not only preserves your dental health but also reduces the need for expensive procedures like root canals, crowns, or extractions.

Our services include:

• Comprehensive oral exams and x-rays.

• Professional teeth cleaning and polishing.

• Gum disease screening and treatment.

• Restorative care, including fillings, crowns, and bridges.

• Cosmetic dentistry to enhance your smile.

Regular visits allow our team to tailor preventive care specifically to your needs, ensuring a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

Take Action Today

Don’t wait until dental problems become painful or costly. If you notice any of the warning signs discussed—sensitivity, bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, or jaw pain—contact Rabel Family Dentistry today. Our team is ready to provide the expert care you need and help you maintain a healthy, confident smile. Schedule an appointment with a trusted dentist for Baton Rouge, LA by calling us at 225-775-0160 or visiting our contact us page .

Common Myths About Dentures by a Dentist in Baton Rouge, LA

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 20:09:37 GMT

Dentures have long been associated with aging, but modern dental advancements have completely transformed how they look, feel, and function. At Premier Dentures & Implants, we understand that choosing dentures in Baton Rouge, LA, is an important decision for your health and confidence. Gone are the days of awkward fits or artificial-looking smiles—today’s dentures are lightweight, secure, and designed to blend seamlessly with your natural appearance.

Whether you’re missing several teeth or need a full replacement, our expert team crafts solutions tailored to your comfort and lifestyle. If you’ve been putting off treatment because of outdated beliefs about dentures, now’s the time to explore your options. Contact us today at 225-775-0160 to schedule a consultation with a trusted dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, and rediscover your best smile.

Myth #1: Dentures Are Only for Seniors

A major misconception about dentures in Baton Rouge, LA, is that they’re only meant for older adults. In truth, anyone who’s lost teeth due to injury, decay, or gum disease can benefit from dentures. Missing teeth can affect speech, eating, and even facial structure, issues that younger adults face just as often as seniors.

Modern dentures offer a youthful, natural look that restores both aesthetics and function. Whether you’re in your 30s or 60s, dentures can be customized to meet your exact needs. Our dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, works closely with patients to ensure a comfortable and confident fit that feels as good as it looks.

Myth #2: Dentures Always Look Fake

Decades ago, dentures were often bulky and obvious. Fortunately, those days are over. At Premier Dentures & Implants, we design dentures in Baton Rouge, LA, using advanced materials that mimic the natural translucency and shape of real teeth. Every set is customized in color, texture, and contour to match your facial features and gum line perfectly.

These high-quality dentures are individually crafted to ensure your smile looks genuine. Most people can’t tell the difference between our dentures and natural teeth. With today’s technology, you can smile confidently knowing your dentures look beautiful and feel completely natural.

Myth #3: Dentures Are Uncomfortable to Wear

Comfort is one of the biggest concerns patients have when considering dentures in Baton Rouge, LA. Thankfully, modern dentures are lightweight and shaped to fit precisely within your mouth. Our team takes digital impressions to ensure a perfect, customized fit, minimizing irritation and slippage.

The first few days of wearing dentures might feel different, but within a short period, most patients adapt easily. A skilled dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, can make adjustments as needed to ensure long-term comfort. With today’s advanced materials, wearing dentures can feel as natural as having your own teeth.

Myth #4: You Can’t Eat or Speak Normally with Dentures

Many people assume that dentures limit what you can eat or make speaking difficult. While adjustment takes some practice, modern dentures in Baton Rouge, LA, are designed for function as much as appearance. They restore your ability to bite, chew, and talk confidently helping you enjoy everyday activities again.

At Premier Dentures & Implants, we recommend starting with soft foods and gradually reintroducing your favorites. Our dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, provides tips to help you speak comfortably during your adjustment phase. With patience and proper care, dentures quickly become a natural part of your lifestyle.

Myth #5: Dentures Don’t Last Long

Another misconception is that dentures wear out quickly. With proper maintenance, dentures can last many years—sometimes even a decade or longer. The key is regular cleaning, safe handling, and periodic dental visits for checkups and adjustments.

Our durable dentures in Baton Rouge, LA, are made with premium materials designed to resist staining and wear. However, since your gums and jawbone naturally change shape over time, minor refittings may be needed to maintain comfort and alignment. For more guidance on denture care and maintenance, visit our FAQ page for professional advice.

The Benefits of Choosing Modern Dentures

Choosing dentures in Baton Rouge, LA, offers more than just improved appearance—it also supports your oral health and confidence. Below are the key benefits of today’s advanced denture technology:

1. Realistic Appearance

Modern dentures are designed with lifelike materials that resemble natural enamel and gums. The result is a smile that’s both attractive and authentic.

2. Enhanced Comfort

Custom-fit dentures reduce slipping and irritation, allowing you to speak and eat comfortably throughout the day.

3. Restored Functionality

High-quality dentures let you chew a wide variety of foods again, supporting better digestion and nutrition.

4. Affordable Smile Restoration

Compared to dental implants or bridges, dentures provide an accessible way to regain your smile without sacrificing quality.

5. Improved Confidence

Patients often report feeling more social and self-assured after receiving new dentures, thanks to their natural appearance and stability.

Maintaining consistent dental hygiene habits, such as brushing twice daily and flossing, can make a significant difference in your oral health. To explore more evidence-based tips for keeping your smile healthy as you age, visit the National Institute on Aging’s guide to taking care of your teeth and mouth .

Schedule Your Consultation for Dentures in Baton Rouge, LA

Don’t let outdated myths keep you from achieving the smile you deserve. With modern advancements, dentures are more natural, secure, and long-lasting than ever before. At Premier Dentures & Implants, we proudly serve patients throughout the Baton Rouge area with expert denture solutions that restore confidence and comfort.

If you’re ready to learn more about your options, our friendly team is here to help. Call us at 225-775-0160 today to schedule your consultation with a trusted dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, or send us a message to get started on your journey toward a beautiful new smile.

Usual Dental Problems a General Dentist Can Help You Prevent

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 10:10:18 GMT

Are you interested in the best ways to keep your teeth healthy and avoid painful dental emergencies? If so, learning how a general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA , helps prevent the most common oral problems is a must. Rabel Family Dental provided this article to guide you on simple but powerful ways to stop trouble before it begins. Strong daily habits and regular visits to a general dentist make a big difference in avoiding cavities, gum disease, enamel erosion, bad breath, and tooth sensitivity.

Cavities: How Tiny Holes Lead to Big Trouble

Cavities start off small but can cause huge problems if ignored. These holes form when bacteria living on your teeth feed on sugars from food and drinks, making acids that eat away enamel. This damage grows over time, leading to pain, infection, or even lost teeth.

Visiting a general dentist twice a year is the first step to keeping cavities away. At your appointment, your general dentist checks for early signs of tooth decay and cleans away the plaque you miss when brushing at home. Treatments with fluoride, dental sealants, and advice on healthy snacking can also lower your risk.

Your dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, can spot and treat cavities long before they lead to bigger problems. Remember: The earlier you treat a cavity, the easier—and less expensive—it is to fix.

Gum Disease: Fixing Problems Before They Start

Did you know gum disease often appears quietly? It usually begins with simple redness, swelling, or gums that bleed when brushing. If ignored, you can end up with sore gums, loose teeth, or even bone loss in your jaw.

Getting regular cleanings with a general dentist removes plaque and bacteria below your gumline, where a toothbrush just can’t reach. Your dentist also teaches you proper flossing techniques and may suggest antibacterial mouthwashes to boost your defense.

Having gum disease can even affect your overall health. Studies show connections with heart problems and diabetes. Keeping up with your dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, helps you catch gum problems in their earliest stages, keeping your mouth—and your whole body—healthier.

Enamel Erosion: Save Your Tooth’s Protective Layer

Enamel is your tooth’s tough outer shell, but it wears down from acids in food and drinks like soda, citrus, and sports beverages. Even grinding your teeth or brushing too hard can weaken enamel and lead to pain, cavities, and yellowing.

A general dentist will point out early warning signs of erosion, such as rough spots or changes in color. You’ll learn smart tips for protecting enamel—like drinking water after acidic drinks, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and getting custom mouthguards if you grind your teeth.

Enamel loss is permanent, so prevention is crucial. Your dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, can offer treatments (like remineralizing gels or sealants) to strengthen and protect your teeth. Regular guidance keeps your enamel strong for years to come.

Bad Breath: Solving the Real Problem

Bad breath, or halitosis, may seem like just a little annoyance—but sometimes, it means something bigger is going on. Bits of food stuck between teeth, dry mouth, gum disease, or sinus issues can all cause unwanted odors.

Your general dentist can track down the source of the problem. Professional cleanings get rid of hidden plaque and food particles, while personalized advice helps you step up your home care. For example, your dentist may show you the right way to clean your tongue or recommend certain mouthwashes that really work.

Your dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, may also discover if chronic bad breath is linked to something else, such as an infection or another medical condition. Solving the real cause keeps your breath fresh and your mouth healthier.

Tooth Sensitivity: Get Back to Enjoying Food Again

Tooth sensitivity often means sharp pain from cold or hot foods and drinks. It usually happens when enamel gets thin or gums pull back from the teeth, exposing nerve endings. Eating and drinking can become a challenge—or even start hurting all the time.

Your general dentist identifies what’s causing your sensitivity. They may suggest special toothpaste, gentle brushing techniques, or dental treatments that seal exposed surfaces. Sometimes, treating underlying problems like gum disease makes the pain go away entirely.

Managing tooth sensitivity early keeps you comfortable and lets you enjoy your favorite foods again. The right advice from your dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, ensures tooth sensitivity doesn’t turn into a bigger issue.

Prevention Is Powerful: Why Routine Visits Matter

Most people wait until they feel pain before visiting a general dentist, but regular check-ups are the real secret to avoiding serious trouble. Visits every six months mean your dentist can spot small issues—like early decay or gum changes—before they demand costly fixes.

General dentists teach you everyday habits to boost your oral health, like brushing twice daily, flossing, eating the right foods, and avoiding sugary snacks. At Rabel Family Dental, patient education leads to lifelong oral wellness. For more on how routine preventive care supports overall health, check out this helpful article.

Taking action at home and teaming up with your dentist for routine checks is how you avoid almost all major dental problems.

The Rabel Family Dental Approach: Care You Can Count On

Prevention is always at the center of care at Rabel Family Dental. The team believes in gentle treatment, one-on-one education, and building strong habits for every member of your family.

Every check-up includes a personalized assessment, professional cleaning, and simple, practical advice for keeping your mouth healthy. You’ll never feel rushed, and your questions are always welcome.

You’ll leave with real steps to try at home, knowing that consistent effort is what keeps your smile bright for years.

Ready for a Healthier Smile? Book Your Appointment in Baton Rouge Today!

If you want to avoid dental emergencies and keep your whole family’s teeth healthy, prevention is your best tool. Rabel Family Dental takes pride in helping neighbors enjoy lifelong oral health through regular dental visits and smart home care. Contact us today and discover gentle, expert prevention now!

What to Expect During Your First Visit to a Dentist in Baton Rouge, LA

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 18:06:38 GMT

Moving to a new city can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming. Among the many things on your to-do list, finding a reliable and patient-centered general dentist is essential to maintaining your oral health. If you’ve recently relocated to Baton Rouge, LA, you might be wondering what to expect when you schedule your first dental appointment. Whether you’re coming from across the country or just a few miles away, your first visit to Rabel Family Dental will provide not only excellent care but also a welcoming atmosphere designed to put you at ease.

A Warm Welcome and Patient-Centered Care

The team at Rabel Family Dental understands that visiting a new dentist can be a little intimidating, especially if it’s been a while since your last dental appointment. From the moment you walk through the door, you’ll notice a friendly, professional environment where your comfort and concerns are treated as a priority. The staff are trained to listen carefully, answer your questions, and tailor treatment plans to your unique needs.

Rabel Family Dental is known for its patient-centered approach. This means you are not just a number; you are a valued individual with specific dental needs and goals. Whether you need routine care, cosmetic dentistry, or more complex procedures, your general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, will work alongside you to develop a plan that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Discovering Modern Technology

One of the standout features of Rabel’s office is their use of the latest dental technology. From digital X-rays that reduce radiation exposure to state-of-the-art cleaning instruments, the team uses tools that help improve accuracy and comfort. This technology also helps in early detection of dental issues, allowing your general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, to catch problems before they become painful or expensive to treat.

What Happens During Your First Appointment?

Step 1: Comprehensive Medical and Dental History Review

Your first visit typically begins with a detailed questionnaire about your medical history and dental habits. This information is critical because your oral health is closely linked to overall health. Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or allergies can influence the dental care you receive. Be sure to share as much detail as possible, including medications you are currently taking or any past dental treatments you’ve had.

Step 2: Digital X-Rays for a Complete View

After your health history is reviewed, the dental team will take digital X-rays. These images provide a comprehensive look at your teeth, roots, and jawbone structure. Unlike traditional film X-rays, digital versions appear instantly on a computer screen and expose you to considerably less radiation. The X-rays help spot cavities, bone loss, infections, and even early signs of oral cancer.

Step 3: Professional Cleaning to Remove Plaque and Tartar

Next comes the professional cleaning. This is a crucial part of maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Using special tools, the dental hygienist will remove plaque buildup and tartar that you can’t get rid of with daily brushing and flossing. The cleaning also includes polishing your teeth to remove surface stains, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean.

Step 4: Thorough Dental Examination

Following the cleaning, your general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, will conduct a complete dental exam. This includes checking for decay, examining the condition of existing fillings or crowns, and evaluating gum health. They may also perform oral cancer screenings and look for signs of teeth grinding, misalignment, or other issues.

Step 5: Personalized Consultation and Next Steps

Before you leave, your dentist will discuss their findings with you. If no issues are detected, they will recommend a schedule for regular checkups and cleanings. If any concerns arise, they will explain your treatment options in plain language, ensuring you understand the benefits and any potential costs. This conversation is your opportunity to ask questions and express any anxieties you may have about treatment.

The Importance of Regular Dental Visits in Baton Rouge, LA

Regular visits to a trusted general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, are vital for preserving optimal oral health . These appointments allow for early detection of problems such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer, often before you notice symptoms. Early intervention can save you from costly and invasive procedures down the road.

At Rabel Family Dental, the goal is to maintain your smile’s health, preventing issues before they start. This proactive approach includes not only checkups but also personalized education to help you improve your oral hygiene routine at home.

Putting Patients at Ease, Especially If You Haven’t Seen a Dentist in a While

If it has been years since your last dental visit, it’s natural to feel nervous. The good news is that many new patients who walk into Rabel Family Dental report feeling much more at ease after their initial consultation. The staff are compassionate and trained to handle patients with dental anxiety, providing a calm, reassuring environment.

Whether it’s offering sedation options, explaining every step of your appointment, or simply answering your questions, the team goes the extra mile to help patients feel safe and comfortable. Your first visit is an opportunity to build trust and establish a positive relationship with your general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA.

Dentist Baton Rouge, LA: Your Partners in Oral Health

Rabel Family Dental stands out as a reliable and friendly choice for those seeking a general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA. Their patient-first philosophy, combined with modern technology and expert care, means your oral health is in good hands. You’ll leave your appointment with a clear understanding of your dental condition and a plan for maintaining a healthy smile.

Whether you’re fresh to Baton Rouge or a long-term resident looking for a change, Rabel Family Dental offers the personal attention and professional expertise you deserve.

Are you ready to experience top-quality dental care in a warm and welcoming environment? Don’t wait to prioritize your oral health. Contact Rabel Family Dental today or call us at 225-775-0160 to schedule your first appointment. Let us show you why we’re the trusted general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, for countless families. Your smile is our top priority—we look forward to meeting you!

Understanding the Need for Dentures in Baton Rouge, LA

Sat, 02 Aug 2025 15:43:11 GMT

When considering dentures in Baton Rouge, LA, it’s crucial to find the right fit for your lifestyle, comfort, and oral health needs. Dentures in Baton Rouge, LA, offer a life-changing solution for many residents who are seeking to restore their smiles and improve their overall oral health. But how do you ensure you're making the best choice for your needs when it comes to dentures in Baton Rouge, LA? The journey towards finding the perfect dentures in Baton Rouge, LA, begins with understanding your options and consulting with a trusted local dentist. With so many choices available, residents often feel overwhelmed by the process. This is where dentures in Baton Rouge, LA, can transform your dental experience, providing a tailored solution to meet your unique needs. To truly navigate the world of dentures in Baton Rouge, LA, you need expert guidance and personalized care, which can be found with the right dental professional. By focusing on quality, comfort, and durability, dentures in Baton Rouge, LA, become more than just a dental appliance; they become a vital part of your daily life.

Personalized Consultation with Your Dentist

Choosing the right dentures starts with a visit to a dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, who can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health. A dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, understands the local environment and specific needs of its residents, offering tailored solutions that go beyond generic options. At Rabel Family Dentistry, our team of experts is dedicated to ensuring that you receive the best possible care and guidance. During your consultation, a dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, will assess your oral health, discuss your lifestyle, and address any concerns you might have. This personalized approach ensures that the dentures recommended are not only comfortable but also suitable for your daily activities. By working closely with a dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, you can make informed decisions that lead to long-term satisfaction and improved oral health.

Evaluating Oral Health at Rabel Family Dentistry

A crucial step in selecting the right dentures is the evaluation of your oral health. At Rabel Family Dentistry, our team conducts a thorough examination to determine the best course of action. We understand that every patient's needs are different, and our approach reflects that. By evaluating factors such as bone density, gum health, and existing dental structures, we can recommend the most suitable dentures for you. This careful evaluation process ensures that the dentures fit comfortably and function effectively, allowing you to enjoy a confident smile. Our commitment to patient care means that we take the time to explain each option and its benefits, empowering you to make the best decision for your oral health. At Rabel Family Dentistry, we believe that the right dentures can significantly enhance your quality of life.

Exploring Denture Options and Influencing Factors

Once your oral health has been evaluated, it's time to explore the various denture options available. Factors influencing your choice include lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. At Rabel Family Dentistry, we offer a range of dentures , from full and partial to implant-supported options. Each type of denture has its advantages, and our team is here to guide you through the selection process. For instance, implant-supported dentures provide added stability and are ideal for those who lead active lifestyles. Meanwhile, partial dentures can be a cost-effective solution for those missing only a few teeth. By understanding the nuances of each option, you can choose dentures that align with your needs and expectations. Our goal is to ensure that you leave our practice with dentures that enhance your smile and boost your confidence.

The Role of Follow-Up Visits and Adjustments

Receiving dentures is just the beginning of your journey. To ensure long-term success and comfort, follow-up visits and adjustments are essential. At Rabel Family Dentistry, we prioritize ongoing care and support for all our patients. After fitting your dentures, we'll schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. This proactive approach helps prevent discomfort and ensures that your dentures function optimally. Our team is committed to your satisfaction and is always available to address any concerns you might have. By maintaining regular contact with your dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, you can ensure that your dentures continue to meet your needs. With Rabel Family Dentistry, you can expect a partnership focused on achieving the best possible outcomes for your oral health.

Success Stories and Testimonials from Our Patients

At Rabel Family Dentistry, we take pride in the positive experiences of our patients. Our commitment to quality care and personalized service is reflected in the testimonials we receive. Many residents of Baton Rouge, LA, have entrusted us with their denture needs and have seen remarkable transformations. One patient shared how their confidence soared after receiving their custom-fit dentures, allowing them to enjoy social activities without hesitation. Another patient highlighted the attentive care they received during follow-up visits, ensuring their comfort and satisfaction. These success stories underscore the importance of choosing the right dental practice for your dentures. At Rabel Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing exceptional service and results that make a difference in your life.

Choosing the right dentures is an important decision that can significantly impact your quality of life. At Rabel Family Dentistry, we are here to guide you through every step of the process, from consultation to follow-up care. If you're considering dentures in Baton Rouge, LA, don't hesitate to contact us today . Our team is ready to provide personalized care and expert advice tailored to your needs. Call us at 225-775-0160 to schedule your consultation. Let us help you achieve the smile you've always wanted. Your journey to better oral health and confidence starts here with Rabel Family Dentistry.

Why You Should Visit a General Dentist in Baton Rouge, LA?

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 19:49:29 GMT

When it comes to your family’s health, dental care should never be overlooked. If you're searching for a general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA , you’re already taking a smart step toward maintaining your loved ones’ smiles. A general dentist serves as the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering comprehensive services such as routine cleanings, dental exams, fillings, and preventive care. Choosing the right provider can have a long-term impact on your family's oral health, making it crucial to find someone who is experienced, compassionate, and conveniently located.

What Services Does a General Dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, Provide?

A general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, offers a wide range of essential services tailored to meet the needs of both children and adults. These services are designed to prevent problems before they start and address issues in their early stages.

At Rabel Family Dentistry, patients can access:

Routine Cleanings and Exams: Regular checkups are the foundation of dental health. Cleanings remove plaque and tartar, while exams help detect any signs of decay, gum disease, or other oral conditions early on.
Preventive Treatments: Fluoride applications, sealants, and patient education help protect your teeth long-term.
Fillings and Restorations: Cavities are treated efficiently using durable materials that match the natural color of your teeth.
Digital X-rays and Diagnostics: Advanced imaging allows for better diagnosis and treatment planning.
Oral Cancer Screenings: Early detection of oral cancer can save lives. A general dentist performs routine screenings during regular exams.
Customized Patient Education: Learn proper brushing and flossing techniques tailored to each family member’s needs.

Each visit to Rabel Family Dentistry includes personalized care to make sure patients feel comfortable, informed, and empowered to maintain their oral health.

The Value of Consistent Dental Care Across All Ages

Continuity in dental care plays a critical role in maintaining optimal oral health throughout every stage of life. When children, adults, and seniors receive care from the same trusted general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, they benefit from a deep, personalized understanding of their dental history, habits, and specific needs. This long-term relationship enhances both preventive care and treatment effectiveness, helping to catch problems early and ensure a smooth transition through life’s dental milestones.

Key benefits of continuity in care include:

For Children: Establishes early trust and comfort in dental visits, promotes good oral hygiene habits, and allows early detection of issues like misalignment or cavities.
For Adults: Maintains consistency in treatment plans, helps manage lifestyle-related concerns such as gum disease or grinding, and ensures accurate record-keeping.
For Seniors: Supports the management of age-related concerns like dry mouth, tooth wear, and gum recession while ensuring familiarity with past treatments or restorations.

By seeing the same general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, over the years, families experience a seamless, more holistic approach to dental care that adapts to their evolving needs.

The Importance of Choosing a Trusted Dentist in Baton Rouge, LA

Selecting a reliable and experienced dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, is essential for maintaining not only a healthy smile but also your overall well-being. A local dentist who understands the unique needs of the Baton Rouge community can provide timely, personalized care that evolves with you and your family. From preventative services to early intervention and education, having a dedicated dental professional by your side ensures lasting oral health.

Here’s why a local dentist matters:

Personalized Care: A dentist familiar with your dental history can provide more accurate and effective treatment.
Convenient Access: Quick and easy appointments help you stay consistent with dental visits.
Continuity of Care: Long-term relationships with your dentist improve trust and communication.
Community Connection: Local dentists often take a more compassionate, community-focused approach to patient care.

Choosing the right dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, is an investment in your health and a step toward a lifetime of confident, healthy smiles.

Rabel Family Dentistry: Your Full-Service Dental Home in Baton Rouge, LA

Rabel Family Dentistry is more than just a dental office; it’s a welcoming, full-service general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, committed to caring for patients of all ages. Whether you’re bringing in a child for their first cleaning, scheduling a routine exam for yourself, or seeking specialized care for an elderly family member, our team is here to serve you with compassion and expertise. We pride ourselves on creating a friendly, comfortable environment where every patient feels heard, respected, and valued. From preventive care to restorative treatments, Rabel Family Dentistry offers comprehensive services under one roof, making us the ideal dental home for your entire family.

If you’re ready to take control of your family’s dental health, it’s time to schedule an appointment with Rabel Family Dentistry, your trusted general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA. From toddlers to grandparents, we provide the full range of general dentistry services to keep every member of your family smiling confidently. Contact us to learn more about how we can serve you. Choose a dental home where you and your loved ones are treated with the care, respect, and attention you deserve!

5 Tips for Choosing a Reliable Dentist in Baton Rouge, LA

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 19:18:52 GMT

When searching for a reliable dentist in Baton Rouge, LA , you want to ensure that you’re choosing someone who meets the needs of your whole family, from children to adults. Dental health is essential for everyone, and finding the right professional can make all the difference. Whether you need routine check-ups, fillings, or more specialized treatments, the right dentist will offer a comfortable, trustworthy environment for all ages.

5 Essential Tips for Choosing a Dentist in Baton Rouge, LA

1. Look for Experience and Qualifications

When selecting a general dentist experience matters. A highly trained expert with years of practice will offer comprehensive care, ensuring that your family’s dental needs are met with confidence. Check for certifications and membership in professional organizations like the American Dental Association (ADA), as these indicate a commitment to staying updated on the latest techniques and technologies.

2. Consider the Services Offered

A general dentist should be able to provide a wide range of services, from routine cleanings and exams to restorative and cosmetic procedures. Look for a professional who offers treatments like:

Preventive care (cleanings, exams, and fluoride treatments).
Fillings and crowns.
Teeth whitening.
Emergency dental care.
Orthodontics (if applicable).

Choosing a dentist with a broad scope of services means that your family can receive all the care you need at one convenient location, without needing to visit multiple specialists.

3. Get Referrals

Personal recommendations are excellent ways to gauge a practice's reputation. Ask trusted friends, family, or colleagues about their experiences. Positive recommendations often indicate a caring, knowledgeable staff and high-quality patient care.

4. Evaluate the Office Environment

When you visit the office of a general dentist, pay attention to the overall atmosphere. A clean, organized, and welcoming office is a good sign that the dentist is professional and attentive to detail. Additionally, make sure the staff is friendly, and that the office is equipped with modern technology to ensure efficient and accurate diagnoses. Comfort is important, especially for children, so be sure the office creates a positive environment for patients of all ages.

5. Consider the Location and Office Hours

Convenience is key when it comes to finding the right dentist for your family. Ensure the dentist is conveniently located near your home or workplace, so you can easily make appointments without disrupting your daily schedule. Look for a dentist with flexible office hours, including options for evening or weekend appointments. This will help ensure you can get the care you need when it’s most convenient for your family.

Schedule Your Appointment With a General Dentist Today!

At Rabel Family Dentistry we offer a warm, welcoming environment with a focus on comprehensive care for the whole family. Whether you're looking for routine exams or advanced dental treatments, we are here to help.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment with a trusted general dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, and give your family the healthy smiles they deserve!

Early Pediatric Dentistry: Setting Your Child Up for Lifelong Oral Health

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 16:29:18 GMT

A child’s smile is more than just adorable; it’s a crucial part of their overall health and development. Yet, many parents are unsure when to start dental visits or how to choose the right provider. From preventing cavities to ensuring proper tooth alignment, early dental care is vital to a child’s well-being. If you’re looking for pediatric dentistry in Baton Rouge, LA, understanding the benefits of early oral care can set your child up for a lifetime of healthy habits.

When Should Kids Start Seeing a Dentist?

The first visit to a children’s dentist should happen by age one or when the first tooth emerges, whichever comes first. This early appointment isn’t just about checking for cavities; it helps:

Ensure proper jaw and tooth development.
Identify any early signs of decay.
Establish good oral hygiene habits.
Prevent dental anxiety by creating a positive experience.

Choosing the Right Children's Dentist

Not all dentists specialize in pediatric care. When selecting a dentist for your child, consider the following:

Kid-Friendly Environment: A welcoming space with engaging décor and a gentle approach helps children feel at ease.
Preventive Focus: Look for a dentist who emphasizes education, fluoride treatments, and sealants to prevent cavities.
Experience With Pediatric Patients: A dentist who understands how to communicate with children can make a big difference in their comfort.

A good pediatric dentist makes dental care fun and positive, setting the stage for lifelong healthy habits. When searching for pediatric dentistry in Baton Rouge, LA, choosing a provider who prioritizes preventive care and a child-friendly approach ensures a stress-free experience for both children and parents.

Steps to Help Your Child Feel Comfortable at the Dentist

Even if your child is seeing a children’s dentist for the first time, there are ways to make the experience smooth and stress-free:

Talk About It Positively: Avoid negative words like “pain” or “shot.” Instead, explain that the dentist will count their teeth and make sure they stay strong.
Practice at Home: Let your child “play dentist” by brushing a stuffed animal’s teeth.
Read Books About the Dentist: Stories featuring favorite characters can help reduce anxiety.

Simple Ways to Encourage Healthy Oral Habits at Home

Dental care doesn’t stop at the dentist’s office. Daily habits play a huge role in preventing cavities and gum disease. Keep these tips in mind:

Start Early: Wipe baby’s gums with a soft cloth before teeth come in.
Use the Right Toothpaste: A tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) is enough for babies; increase to a pea-sized amount by age three.
Make Brushing Fun: Use a timer, play music, or let your child pick out their toothbrush.

Give Your Child a Healthy Smile With Expert Dental Care

When it’s time to find a children’s dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, Rabel Family Dental provides compassionate, expert care tailored to young patients. Our team ensures that each visit is a positive experience, helping your child build confidence in their dental health.

Schedule an appointment today at Rabel Family Dental and give your child the best start to a lifetime of healthy smiles!

Comparison of Materials For Dental Crowns

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 07:29:48 GMT

Whether you need to repair a damaged tooth or restore a dental implant, choosing the right material is essential for durability, aesthetics, and comfort. With options like porcelain, metal, and zirconia, how do you decide which is best? Let’s compare these materials to help you make an informed decision.

Why Dental Crowns Matter

Tooth crowns are a go-to treatment for damaged, decayed, or weakened teeth. They restore your teeth' shape, function, and appearance while providing long-lasting protection. Each crown material offers unique benefits, making it vital to understand the differences to ensure the perfect match for your dental needs and lifestyle.

Comparing Dental Crown Materials

Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are a popular choice, especially for front teeth, due to their natural appearance.

Pros:

Mimic the look of natural teeth with their translucent quality.
Ideal for visible areas, blending seamlessly with your smile.
Biocompatible, reducing the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.

Cons:

Less durable than metal or zirconia crowns.
May chip or crack under high pressure, such as teeth grinding.

Porcelain crowns are an excellent option for patients prioritizing aesthetics but may not be suitable for heavy chewing areas.

Metal Crowns

Metal crowns, typically made of gold or other alloys, are known for their incredible strength and longevity.

Pros:

Extremely durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Require minimal removal of the natural tooth structure.
Long-lasting with proper care.

Cons:

Metallic appearance makes them less appealing for front teeth.
Potential for allergic reactions in rare cases

Metal crowns are often ideal for molars or less visible teeth, where strength outweighs appearance.

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their combination of strength and aesthetics.

Pros:

Highly durable, comparable to metal crowns.
Can be shaded to match natural teeth for a more aesthetic result.
Resistant to chipping and cracking.

Cons:

Can feel bulkier than other crown materials.
May cause wear on opposing teeth over time.

Zirconia crowns offer a balanced solution for patients seeking both durability and a natural appearance, making them a versatile choice for any area of the mouth.

Which Dental Crown Is Right for You?

Choosing the right crown depends on your dental needs, budget, and personal preferences. If appearance is a priority, porcelain or zirconia crowns are excellent choices. For strength and cost-efficiency, metal crowns may be the better fit. To determine the best option, consult a dental professional who can guide you based on your unique situation.

Trust Rabel Family Dental for Dental Crowns in Baton Rouge, LA

At Rabel Family Dental, we specialize in crafting high-quality tooth crowns in Baton Rouge, LA, tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Our team ensures your crown is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, so you can smile with confidence.

Ready to restore your smile? Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

Why Healthy Gums Matter to Your Overall Health

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 18:58:13 GMT

When it comes to oral hygiene, most of us focus on keeping our teeth white and cavity-free. However, the unsung hero of a healthy mouth is often overlooked—our gums. Gums play a crucial role in maintaining overall oral health, and neglecting them can lead to severe consequences. In this blog post, we will explore why gum care is essential, what happens if you don’t take care of your gums, signs that indicate the need for improved gum care, and how your dentist can be an invaluable ally in maintaining optimal gum health.

Gums are the foundation of your oral health. They hold your teeth in place and create a protective barrier against bacteria and food particles. Healthy gums are firm and pink, and tightly hug your teeth. When your gums are healthy, they support the structures around them, contributing to the overall stability of your teeth.

Good gum care also plays a vital role in preventing periodontal disease—a common yet serious disease that affects the gums and can lead to tooth loss if untreated. Periodontal health has been linked with various systemic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Thus, taking care of your gums does more than protect your oral health; it contributes to your overall well-being.

Ignoring gum care can have dire consequences. The most immediate concern is gingivitis, an early stage of periodontal disease characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing. Gingivitis is reversible with proper care but can progress to periodontitis if left untreated.

Periodontitis is a more severe condition where the inner layer of the gums pulls from the teeth, forming hollow and unstable pockets of infection. Gum tissue and bone get destroyed as the disease worsens. Eventually, this can lead to tooth loss.

Beyond losing your teeth, poor gum health can affect other areas of your body. There is a link between periodontal disease and systemic issues such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and respiratory problems. Therefore, neglecting your gums doesn’t just risk oral complications; it could potentially impact overall health.

Your mouth gives several warning signs when something isn’t quite right with your gums. If you notice any redness or swelling in your gums or experience bleeding while brushing or flossing, these could be early indicators of gum issues. Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth even after brushing might also suggest gum problems.

Receding gums or noticeably longer-looking teeth are signs that you should not ignore as they may indicate the onset of periodontitis. Furthermore, if you experience any loose teeth or changes in how they fit together when biting down, it's time to prioritize gum care immediately.

Your dentist plays an indispensable role in maintaining healthy gums through regular check-ups and professional cleanings. During these visits, they can assess the condition of your gums and provide tailored advice for improving daily care routines.

Professional cleanings remove tartar—a hard deposit that forms when plaque is not consistently removed—that cannot be eliminated by regular brushing alone. By removing tartar build-up along with plaque from above and below the gum line during these cleanings, dentists help prevent gingivitis from progressing into periodontitis.

Moreover, dentists offer advanced treatments for those already suffering from periodontal issues by employing techniques like scaling and root planing—deep cleaning procedures designed specifically for treating infected areas below the gum line.

Dentists can also educate patients on effective brushing techniques tailored specifically for enhancing gum health and recommend products like antibacterial rinses or specialized toothpaste formulated for sensitive or inflamed gums.

Visit our dental care specialists at Rabel Family Dental to discuss your gum health.

Is Sedation Dentistry the Right Choice for Your Family?

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 23:17:28 GMT

Visiting the dentist can be stressful for individuals of all ages, particularly for those with a fear of dental procedures or anxiety about the unknown. Sedation dentistry provides a potential solution to make dental visits more comfortable and stress-free for your family. Understanding what it entails can help you determine if it’s the right fit for your family’s unique dental care needs.

Sedation dentistry entails using medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It can be administered in a variety of ways, including pill form, intravenous (IV) sedation, and nitrous oxide (laughing gas). The level of sedation can range from mild to moderate, depending on the specific needs of the patient. This allows individuals to remain calm and comfortable while receiving necessary dental treatments.

Dental anxiety and fear of treatment are common issues that can prevent people, especially children, from attending routine appointments. Missing these visits can lead to untreated oral health problems. Sedation dentistry is designed to alleviate those fears, providing a more positive and relaxing experience, which encourages regular check-ups and maintains optimal oral health for all family members.

A significant advantage of sedation dentistry in family dentistry is its suitability for both children and adults. Kids who struggle with sitting still, individuals with sensory sensitivities, or family members requiring extensive dental work can all benefit from this approach. It ensures treatment is completed efficiently while reducing discomfort and anxiety.

Sedation dentistry offers several options to ensure the most appropriate level of care for each patient. Nitrous oxide, often called “laughing gas,” is among the most common methods, providing mild relaxation while allowing patients to remain awake. For moderately anxious individuals, oral sedation in the form of a pill may be provided ahead of the appointment. For more complex cases, an intravenous (IV) sedation may be used under the careful monitoring of a trained dentist. Understanding these options enables families to choose the best fit for their unique needs.

When a patient is relaxed, the dentist can focus on completing the procedure more efficiently. Sedation dentistry minimizes movement and discomfort, making it easier for the dentist to perform treatments precisely. This benefit is particularly valuable during longer appointments or when multiple procedures are required, reducing the need to schedule follow-up visits.

By eliminating anxiety and creating a stress-free environment, sedation dentistry fosters a positive association with dental visits. For younger family members, this reinforces the importance of maintaining regular oral health care, laying the foundation for a lifetime of good dental habits.

Safety is a top priority in sedation dentistry. The techniques used comply with rigorous standards and follow careful protocols to ensure each patient’s well-being. Dentists perform thorough health evaluations before recommending sedation, and they continuously monitor the patient throughout the procedure to address any concerns promptly.

Sedation dentistry might be ideal if someone in your family avoids dental care due to anxiety, has a low pain threshold, or needs extensive dental work. It is also beneficial for children with special healthcare considerations or adults with physical conditions that make prolonged sitting uncomfortable. Consulting with a professional can help you better understand how sedation could support your family’s dental care needs.

Dental visits don’t have to be overwhelming. For families with members who experience fear, stress, or discomfort during appointments, sedation dentistry offers a comfortable and effective solution. Addressing anxiety and streamlining procedures allows every family member to access the care they deserve without compromise.

Discuss your family’s needs with a trusted family dentist to explore how sedation dentistry can fit into your routine. Taking this step could improve not only oral health but also the overall perception of dental visits for you and your loved ones.

Schedule an appointment with us at Rabel Family Dental and learn more about sedation dentistry.

Tips for Teaching Dental Care to Your Kids

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 20:58:53 GMT

As a parent, you want to ensure that your children have good dental habits from a young age. Good dental hygiene not only prevents tooth decay and gum disease but also helps with overall health. However, teaching dental care to kids can be challenging. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips for teaching dental care to your kids.

The key to establishing good dental habits is starting early and being consistent. As soon as your child's first tooth appears, it's time to start brushing. Use a soft-bristled brush and water or fluoride-free toothpaste for babies under two years old. For kids over two, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

Make brushing their teeth a part of your child's morning and bedtime routine. This will help them understand that it's an essential part of their daily routine and not something optional.

Children imitate what they see, so be sure to lead by example when it comes to dental care. Let your child see you brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing regularly. Show them that you enjoy taking care of your teeth and make it a fun activity by making silly faces or singing songs while brushing.

Kids are more likely to engage in activities that are fun and exciting for them. Dental care doesn't have to be boring or scary for kids. You can make it a game by using fun toothbrushes with their favorite characters or playing a song while brushing. You can also let them choose their own exciting toothpaste flavors, such as strawberry or bubblegum.

Another way to make dental care fun is by turning it into a family activity. Gather everyone in the bathroom and brush your teeth together. Not only will this create bonding time, but it will also show your child that dental care is something everyone in the family does.

Positive reinforcement can go a long way in encouraging good behavior. Praise your child when they brush their teeth properly or remember to floss. You can also use stickers or a rewards chart to motivate them to continue practicing good dental habits.

Going to the dentist can be scary for kids, but there are ways to make it less intimidating. Before their first dental visit, explain to your child what will happen and assure them that it won't hurt. You can also ask if the dentist's office has a toy area or TV in the waiting room to keep your child occupied.

During the appointment, stay with your child and hold their hand for support. Afterward, celebrate by doing something fun together like going for ice cream or playing at the park.

Teaching your child how to brush properly is crucial for maintaining good dental health. Use a timer to ensure they brush for at least two minutes, and teach them to brush in circular motions. It's essential to clean all surfaces of the teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces.

You can also use disclosing tablets or rinses to show your child areas that they may have missed while brushing. This will help them understand the importance of thorough brushing.

Excessive sugar consumption can lead to tooth decay, so it's important to limit sugary snacks and drinks in your child's diet. Instead, offer healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, and cheese. When it comes to drinks, water is the best option for maintaining good dental health.

In conclusion, by starting early, being consistent, making it fun, using positive reinforcement, teaching proper techniques, limiting sugary snacks and drinks, and not giving up, you can successfully teach dental care to your kids. Remember to lead by example and make dental care a positive experience for your child. By instilling good dental habits at a young age, you are setting your child up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Contact us for more information about establishing good dental habits.

How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Remedy the Effects of Smoking

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 21:02:15 GMT

Smoking, a habit that affects millions worldwide, can wreak havoc on your oral health, leading to stained teeth, gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. The damage inflicted on your smile can be disheartening, but there is hope. Cosmetic dentistry offers a range of treatments designed to restore and enhance your smile, no matter how extensive the damage caused by smoking. This post will cover various cosmetic dentistry solutions that can help reclaim the beauty of your smile.

The nicotine and tar in cigarettes are notorious for staining teeth, turning them yellow or brown over time. Furthermore, smoking reduces blood flow to the gums, contributing to gum disease, which can lead to gum recession and tooth loss. The chemicals in cigarettes also create an environment that fosters bacterial growth, increasing the risk of tooth decay and bad breath.

One of the most common issues faced by smokers is severely stained teeth. Professional teeth whitening is an effective solution to restore the natural brightness of your smile. In-office whitening treatments use powerful bleaching agents to penetrate the enamel and break down stains, resulting in significantly whiter teeth.

Dental veneers are an excellent choice for smokers with more extensive discoloration or damage. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. Veneers, made from porcelain or composite resin, can address various cosmetic issues, including stains, chipped teeth, and gaps. The result is a flawless, natural-looking smile.

In cases where smoking has led to tooth loss, dental implants offer a long-lasting and reliable solution. Dental implants consist of titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone, serving as artificial tooth roots. Once healed, these posts support crowns, bridges, or dentures, providing a stable and durable replacement for missing teeth. Implants restore the appearance of your smile, improve chewing function, and prevent bone loss in the jaw.

Smoking can cause significant gum recession, leading to an uneven gum line and exposed tooth roots. Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping, is a cosmetic procedure that can help. Using a laser or scalpel, a dentist removes excess gum tissue or reshapes the gum line to create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing look. This procedure can enhance the overall appearance of your smile and boost your confidence.

Composite bonding is a versatile cosmetic dentistry procedure that can address minor damage caused by smoking. During the procedure, a tooth-colored resin is applied to the affected areas, sculpted into shape, and then hardened with a special light. Composite bonding can repair chipped or cracked teeth, close small gaps, and cover stubborn stains. The result is a seamless and natural-looking restoration that blends beautifully with your existing teeth.

While cosmetic dentistry can significantly improve the appearance of your smile, maintaining good oral health is crucial to ensure long-lasting results. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential, especially for those with a history of smoking. Your dentist can monitor your oral health, address any issues early, and provide ongoing care to keep your smile in top condition.

Finally, it's important to acknowledge that the most effective way to protect your smile is to quit smoking. While cosmetic dentistry offers remarkable solutions to repair damage, continuing to smoke will undermine these efforts and pose ongoing risks to your oral and overall health. Seek support from healthcare professionals, cessation programs, and your support network to quit smoking and embrace a healthier lifestyle.

Cosmetic dentistry provides a lifeline for smokers who wish to reclaim the beauty and health of their smile. By understanding the available treatments and committing to ongoing dental care, you can enjoy a radiant, confident smile once again. If you need help restoring your smile, contact our team at Rabel Family Dental for more information.

The Advantages of Family Dentistry for Every Household

Thu, 30 May 2024 23:22:20 GMT

Within the intricate realm of healthcare, the significance of dental well-being often remains overlooked. Nevertheless, family dentistry shines as a provider of holistic care, delivering a range of tailored benefits for all age groups in a household.

This informative blog post delves into the key advantages of embracing family dentistry in your wellness regimen, prioritizing the oral health of each family member for overall collective well-being.

Family dentistry excels in its holistic approach, providing services that cater to the dental needs of individuals at every life stage. This inclusivity ensures that whether it's the playful toddler, the energetic teenager, or the seasoned elders of the family, each member receives dental care suited to their specific requirements. Such a comprehensive outlook not only streamlines dental maintenance but also fosters a culture of preventive care, reducing the likelihood of severe dental issues in the future.

The hustle of modern life often leaves little room for managing numerous appointments across various dental clinics. Family dentistry offers an elegant solution by serving as a single point of care for the entire household. This convenience in scheduling and conducting visits relieves families of the logistical burden typically associated with dental upkeep. Being able to coordinate appointments for multiple family members on the same day brings efficiency and simplicity to the process, ensuring regular dental visits become a more manageable part of family life.

Continuity of care is another significant advantage of family dentistry. Families build lasting relationships with their dentist by having a consistent dental care provider. This continuity allows the dentist to gain deep insights into the family's dental history and health patterns, facilitating tailored advice and interventions. Furthermore, when trust is established between a family and their dentist, discussions about dental health concerns become more open and constructive, leading to better health outcomes.

Education plays a vital role in preventive dental care, and family dentistry excels in providing learning opportunities for all family members. Dentists can offer age-appropriate advice on a range of topics, from proper brushing techniques for younger children to the implications of dietary choices on oral health for adults. These educational interactions contribute significantly to empowering each family member with the knowledge needed to take proactive steps toward maintaining good oral hygiene.

Dental anxiety is a common concern that affects individuals of all ages. Family dentistry counters this issue effectively by creating a familiar and comforting environment where members, especially children, can observe the positive experiences of their relatives. This demystification of dental procedures plays a crucial role in reducing fear and anxiety associated with dental visits, promoting a healthier attitude towards regular check-ups and treatments.

Regular engagement with a family dental practice enhances the likelihood of early detection of dental conditions, which is paramount in preventing the progression of potential issues. With the advantage of knowing the family's dental history, dentists can swiftly identify patterns and signs that may indicate underlying concerns, ensuring that prompt and appropriate actions are taken. This proactive approach minimizes the need for more invasive treatments later on, safeguarding the family's oral health.

Family dentists possess the unique skill set required to address the varying dental needs of different life stages. From the delicate handling of a child's first tooth to the specialized care needed for aging teeth, these professionals ensure that each treatment plan is meticulously tailored. This personalized care is essential for addressing the dynamic needs of a growing family, providing peace of mind that every member's dental health is in expert hands.

In conclusion, the integration of family dentistry into the health care plan of any household brings about a holistic, efficient, and compassionate path to dental wellness. Its comprehensive approach, combined with its convenience and continuity, makes it an indispensable ally in pursuing lifelong oral health. Furthermore, through education and the alleviation of dental anxieties, family dentistry lays the foundation for positive dental habits that will benefit household members for years to come.

Contact our team at Rabel Family Dentistry to learn more about dental care for the whole family.

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How To Prepare For Your Child's Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 21:13:24 GMT

Taking your child to the dentist for wisdom teeth removal can be a worrisome experience for any parent. However, with proper preparation, you can help ensure a smooth and successful procedure. This blog post will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to prepare for your child's wisdom teeth removal surgery, ensuring their comfort and well-being throughout the process.

The first step in preparing for your child's wisdom teeth removal is to find a qualified general dentist who offers this procedure. Make sure to select a dentist who has experience in performing wisdom teeth extractions and is comfortable working with younger patients.

After you've found a dentist who does wisdom teeth removal, the next step is to schedule a consultation appointment. During this appointment, the dentist will evaluate your child's wisdom teeth and determine if removal is necessary. They will also explain the procedure, discuss any potential risks, and answer any questions you may have. Take this opportunity to address any concerns and gather all the necessary information about the surgery.

Before the surgery, your child's dentist will provide specific instructions to ensure proper preparation. These instructions will include guidelines on eating and drinking restrictions on the night before the procedure, such as avoiding solid foods and only consuming clear liquids. Additionally, the dentist may advise adjusting any medications that your child is currently taking to minimize any potential complications during the surgery. It is crucial to carefully follow these instructions to ensure a successful surgery for your child.

Since the surgery requires anesthesia, it is imperative to arrange transportation to and from the dental office. It is also essential for a parent or guardian to accompany the child during the procedure. This will provide emotional support for your child and allow you to receive any post-operative instructions directly from the dentist.

For older adults, wisdom teeth removal often involves a period of recovery during which they may experience discomfort or swelling. Younger patients tend to do much better and that is one of the many reasons to remove wisdom teeth at a young age, generally 16-17 years old. But just in case, make sure you have supplies at home, such as pain medication prescribed by the dentist, ice packs, soft foods, and beverages. Stock up on soft foods like applesauce, yogurt, smoothies, and soups that are easy to eat and won't require vigorous chewing.

Prepare a comfortable area at home where your child can rest and recover after the surgery. Gather pillows, blankets, and entertainment options such as books, movies, or handheld games to keep them occupied during the initial recovery period. Encourage them to relax and take it easy for a few days while their mouth heals.

Your child's dentist will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to promote proper healing. Make sure to follow these instructions diligently, taking prescribed medications, and attending any follow-up appointments. If you have any concerns during the recovery process, do not hesitate to contact your child's dentist for guidance.

While most patients recover smoothly from wisdom teeth removal, it's important to monitor your child's healing progress. Look out for signs of infection, such as persistent pain, swelling, or discharge, and contact the dentist if you notice any concerning symptoms.

By following these steps, you can better prepare your child for their wisdom teeth removal surgery. Remember to communicate openly with the dentist, stay organized, and provide the necessary support and care throughout the process. With proper preparation, your child's wisdom teeth removal will be a smooth and successful experience. Rabel Family Dentistry offers a range of dental services, including wisdom teeth removal, so contact us today if your child needs their wisdom teeth removed.

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Current And Emerging Technologies And Processes In Dental Implant Treatment

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 22:08:45 GMT

Dental implants are the next best thing to natural teeth. Therefore, dental implant treatment is important to those who lack or cannot retain their natural teeth. Dentists and other researchers work day and night to improve dental implant treatment. Below are some technologies (both in use and at the research stage) that may improve dental implant treatments.

Dentists use digital imaging technology to capture images of the oral cavity, including deep tissues you cannot see with the naked eye, like the jawbone. Examples of digital imaging technologies include x-rays and computed tomography (CT). The technologies allow the dentist to:

Get a clear image of the tissues and nerves around the missing tooth
Ascertain the condition of the jawbone around the missing tooth
Identify potential problems, such as deformities, invisible on the gum surface

The digital images allow the dentist to fashion an implant of the correct size, increasing the chances of implant success. Digital imaging is also useful in monitoring the implant condition and recovery process after surgery. For example, digital images can tell your dentist whether the bone tissues around the implant are growing as they should.

Some dentists and dental laboratories use computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and 3D technologies to design and produce dental implants. For example, a dental professional can use the technologies to scan your mouth and teeth, create a dental restoration impression, and make a dental crown.

CAD, CAM, and 3D technologies have several benefits. For example, the technologies create precise and customizable restorations. These technologies also accelerate the treatment process.

Traditional dental implant materials include porcelain, ceramic, and titanium. However, researchers in the dental industry have identified Zirconia as a good alternative or addition to this list. Zirconia is a transition metal, meaning it has metallic and nonmetallic properties. Dental professionals use the material to fashion zirconium implants.

Zirconium implants are just as strong as metal implants, a great advantage since you want your implants to last forever. At the same time, dentists can fashion zirconium implants to resemble natural teeth, greatly improving your smile aesthetics. Expect to see more of these implants in the future.

Dental implants have an impressive success rate of about 90% after a decade or so after treatment. However, the implants that fail mean there is still room for improvement. Biological factors (like bacteria), behavioral factors (like teeth clenching), and material imperfections contribute to implant failure.

Surface modification is a relatively new dental treatment dentists use to reduce implant failure risk. With surface modification, dental professionals use different technologies (like sandblasting and acid etching) to improve the implant material's surface.

Surface modification improves the integration between implants and natural tissues. Surface modification also makes it difficult for bacteria to colonize tissues around the implant. Both issues improve implant success chances.

Lastly, some researchers are experimenting with using smart technology to improve implant success rates and durability. One such research focuses on phototherapy to dampen bacterial growth and encourage tissue regeneration around dental implants. The smart implants harness your kinetic (motion) energy to power a light source responsible for the phototherapy.

This research looks promising for two main reasons. First, oral bacteria contribute to implant failure since they attack tissues around the implant and discourage integration between the implant and natural tissues. Secondly, natural tissues around implants do not always have the vigor to regenerate and encourage implant stability.

You may not always need all the above technologies whenever you have missing or failed teeth. Let Rabel Family Dentistry examine you and determine the necessary treatments or technologies. We have been active in the dental industry since 1961. Contact us for a consultation to determine the best way to preserve or replace your teeth.

Jittery About Dental X-Rays? Breaking Down Common Misconceptions

Sat, 04 Nov 2023 02:54:10 GMT

Are you acquainted with that feeling of unease as your dentist prepares to capture a dental X-ray? Perhaps your heart starts to race, or a sense of dread washes over you—a reaction that, more often than not, is an outcome of misinformation or misconceptions swirling around dental X-rays.

But what if you discovered these fears are largely unfounded, fueled by myths that need debunking? This post aims to do just that—address two of the most common misconceptions about dental X-rays and put your mind at ease.

It's time to address the elephant in the room: the belief that dental X-rays are dangerous and emit harmful radiation levels. Although dental X-rays indeed involve exposure to small amounts of radiation, labeling it as dangerous is far from accurate.

Modern dental X-ray equipment is designed to limit the body's exposure to radiation, and physicians take every precaution to ensure that radiation exposure is as low as reasonably achievable (the ALARA principle). In fact, the dose of radiation you are exposed to during a full mouth series of dental X-rays is equal to the amount an average person is exposed to in a single day from natural sources.

One key aspect to consider is the frequency of dental X-rays, which is far less compared to other medical radiation sources. Dental X-rays are not performed on a daily basis. They're only administered when necessary for diagnostic purposes. Compared to other diagnostic radiographic procedures, the radiation dose from dental X-rays is considerably lower.

For instance, a chest X-ray exposes you to a significantly higher dose than that of a dental X-ray. So, when put into perspective, the radiation exposure from dental X-rays is relatively insignificant, and the benefits of detecting oral health issues early on far outweigh the negligible risk.

The idea that dental X-rays are unnecessary is another pervasive myth. Dental X-rays are critical diagnostic tools, allowing dentists to identify potential issues that are not visible to the naked eye. They help with things like:

Detecting cavities hidden between teeth or beneath existing fillings
Analyzing the health of the roots and bone surrounding the tooth
Checking the status of developing teeth

These issues, if left undetected or untreated, could lead to severe complications later on. You might experience severe pain, have to undergo costly and invasive procedures, or even lose teeth that could've been saved if your dentist detected a problem early. As such, labeling dental X-rays as unnecessary overlooks their pivotal role in maintaining overall oral health.

Also, keep in mind that reputable dentists don't administer X-rays for profit. Dental professionals follow a set of guidelines established by regulatory bodies like the American Dental Association (ADA), which provide explicit guidelines on when and why X-rays should be performed.

These guidelines are based on a patient's individual health history and current presentation. You can also request that your dentist explain why a dental X-ray is necessary so you can be fully informed and at ease during the process.

Dentists are ethically bound to adhere to these guidelines and to use X-rays judiciously for diagnostic or treatment purposes. Misunderstanding dentists' motives could lead to unwarranted anxiety and avoiding the necessary dental care, which could have lasting negative impacts on a patient's oral and overall health.

Do not shy away from dental X-rays, and always feel free to share any concerns or questions with us at Rabel Family Dental . Remember, prevention is better than cure, so don't wait until it's too late before having a dental X-ray. Schedule your appointment today to ensure the health of your smile and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scaling and Root Planing

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 22:50:28 GMT

You may have experienced many professional dental cleanings over the years without even hearing about the procedure known as scaling and root planing. This more advanced form of teeth cleaning can help patients with periodontal disease get rid of tartar and bacteria below the gumline, improving their dental health.

If your dentist has informed you that you need scaling and root planing, arm yourself with as much knowledge about this procedure as possible beforehand. Take a look at the answers to these frequently asked questions about root scaling and planing.

Root scaling and planing involves a thorough, deep cleaning of the teeth. The dentist uses a tool called a scaler to remove tartar from the gumline. The dentist then uses additional tools to scrape tartar away from the root surfaces, smoothing and polishing them so that plaque and bacteria have a harder time sticking to them.

Dentists can administer a whole-mouth scaling and root planing or focus on one quadrant of the mouth at a time. If either you or your dentist has concerns about the amount of time and effort in a whole-mouth scaling session, you may end up spreading the treatment over multiple appointments.

When plaque hardens into tartar that brushing and flossing can't remove, professional dental cleaning techniques can remove this substance using tools such as scalers. This tartar removal discourages bacterial infiltration and reduces your risk of tooth decay. Occasionally, however, tartar extends below the gumline.

When tartar below the gumline attracts bacteria, a serious condition called periodontal disease can develop. Your immune system reacts to the bacteria by creating inflammation. This inflammation can weaken and damage the gum tissues that anchor the teeth in the jaw. Untreated periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss.

Because scaling and root planing requires a more invasive approach than a normal cleaning, your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb your mouth before beginning the procedure. The first stage involves a vibrating ultrasonic scaler and water-sparing device to remove surface tartar and cleanse the gum pockets.

In the next stage, the dentist uses manual scalers and scrapers to expose the tooth roots inside the gum pockets and scrape away tartar on the root surfaces. Root planing then discourages new tartar buildup and helps gum tissue reattach to the roots. Your gum pockets may also receive an antibiotic gel to prevent infection.

You can expect to experience some gum swelling, bleeding, and discomfort immediately after a scaling and root planing session. You can reduce your discomfort during this period by taking over-the-counter medications, avoiding hard or crunchy foods, and staying away from cold or hot menu items.

Your dentist may have you return to the office a few weeks later for a follow-up exam. During this exam, the dentist will measure the size of your gum pockets, comparing them to their preoperative size. If your periodontal disease has continued to worsen, you might need tissue grafting or pocket reduction surgery.

Periodontal disease can trouble you on a chronic basis. Even after you've successfully reduced your gum pockets, you must practice diligence to keep your periodontal disease at bay. Brush and floss thoroughly, sterilize your mouth with a prescription mouthwash if necessary, and obey your dental checkup schedule.

If your teeth and gums need professional attention to help stop periodontal disease in its tracks, come to the experts at Rabel Family Dentistry. In addition to deep-cleaning techniques such as scaling and root planing, we provide regular preventative dental care for the entire family. Contact our clinic today.

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What You Need to Know About Sports-Related Teeth Injuries

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 29 Jul 2020 18:49:53 GMT

Common injuries to a child's teeth during sports may include a chip or a crack. However, your child could also lose a tooth completely as a result of a sports-related injury. Prevention is key, but you should also understand what to do if your child should experience a sports-related tooth injury. 

Steps to Prevent a Tooth Injury 
Preventative measures can protect your child's teeth from an injury. Even if your child has his or her primary teeth only, you should take the necessary steps to help prevent a problem. 

Mouth Guard 
The following well-respected dental organizations recommend that children wear mouth guards during sports:

American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
American Dental Association
Academy for Sports Dentistry 
American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
American Association of Orthodontists

Generally, you should opt for a custom-made mouth guard for your child. These guards are more comfortable and will protect your child's teeth more adequately.  

When you request a dentist to create a custom mouth guard for your child, the practitioner will take a full-mouth impression of your child's teeth. The dentist then sends the impression to a laboratory that can craft the mouth guard. 

Once the guard comes back from the lab, your child's dentist will ensure it fits properly. Fortunately, once your child has the mouth guard, he or she may use it for most contact sport that he or she participates in.     

During a visit to the dentist for a mouth guard, you and your child will also receive education on how to properly clean the guard. 

Helmet
Your child should wear a helmet during contact sports that could result in a tooth injury. A standard helmet can protect your child's teeth since this type of helmet can prevent an impact that causes your child to bite down hard enough to damage his or her teeth. 

On the other hand, you can find a helmet that has a face shield to protect your child's teeth better. These helmets are the ones you see professional baseball, football, and hockey players wearing. The face cage prevents a ball or puck from coming in contact with your child's teeth. Additionally, this variety of helmet also protects in the event your child runs into another kid headfirst. 

Steps to Take for a Tooth Injury 
If your child has an oral injury from sports, you should assess your child's mouth for any chipped, cracked, or missing teeth.

Broken or Missing Tooth
If you notice your child is partially or completely missing a tooth, you should gather the piece or pieces carefully. Contact your child's dentist immediately to request an emergency appointment and learn how to preserve the tooth until you reach the office.

A dentist can reinsert a permanent tooth, but he can't reinsert a primary tooth. Keep in mind that a dentist can only reinsert a tooth if you seek immediate attention for your child. 

Chipped or Cracked Tooth 
If the sports-related injury is a chipped tooth, you want to find the missing piece, if possible. However, if you can't find the missing portion, a dentist can still repair your child's tooth. This particular injury isn't an emergency, but you should contact your kid's dentist for an appointment as soon as possible. In addition, for a cracked tooth, you want to take your child to the dentist as soon as possible.

Loose Tooth 
If your child's tooth is loose, you want to bring your child to the dentist as soon as possible to ensure the tooth will tighten on its own and intervene if it doesn't.

Sports are a fun way for your child to learn new skills and interact with others. However, these activities may cause damage to your child's tooth. Prevention helps, but you still should know what to do in the event of a tooth injury. 

Schedule an appointment  with Rabel Family Dentistry, serving Baker, LA and the nearby region, for a mouth guard fitting or to fix a tooth injury.

Do's and Don'ts of How to Prevent a Chipped Tooth

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 01 Jul 2020 20:48:05 GMT

A chipped tooth may cause you pain and discomfort if the chip is deep enough. The appearance of a chip can also cause you to feel self-conscious when you smile. When you take these steps, though, you reduce your risk of chipping a tooth. Here's what you should do and what you should not do to prevent a chipped tooth.

Do Reduce Your Sugar Content

You want to limit the amount of sugar you consume, not only for your overall health but also for your teeth.

The bad bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar. Once the bad bacteria devour the sugar, they produce acidic waste that damages your tooth's enamel. This acid causes tooth decay, which weakens the enamel of your teeth. Ultimately, if you have tooth decay, you have a greater chance of chipping a tooth.

Do Limit Acidic Food and Beverages

Foods and drinks with a high acidic level weaken the enamel of your teeth and can cause tooth erosion. While your teeth undergo a process known as remineralization (which repairs the damage), if you repeatedly expose your teeth to acidic foods and drinks, your teeth can't repair themselves as easily. Basically, you weaken your teeth's enamel and leave them vulnerable to chipping.

Some examples of foods and drinks you want to limit because of their acid content include:

Soda
Oranges
Lemons
Limes
Wine
Tomatoes and tomato-based products

Many of these items have health benefits, so you don't want to exclude them completely. Instead, you should rinse your mouth out or brush after you consume these items. When you drink any liquid with an acid content, you should also use a straw to minimize your teeth's exposure.

Don't Chew Ice or Hard Candy

The enamel is a hard layer that protects your teeth. While it's strong, if you bite down on hard candy or ice, you can still chip this layer of your teeth.

Rather than bite hard candy or ice, suck on it. Make sure you brush your teeth soon after you eat candy to remove the sugar from your teeth.

Don't Open Items With Your Teeth

Your teeth are a necessity for eating and chewing. They, however, aren't tools. Therefore, you should avoid opening items and packages with them. While you might want to avoid the hassle of getting up for a pair of scissors or another tool, you'll protect your teeth from damage by getting the right tool to open packages.

Do Get Treatment for Your Acid Reflux

Acid reflux may cause acid from your stomach to enter your mouth. While you may tolerate the bouts of indigestion without the need for treatment, your teeth experience the wrath of the acid. When the acid comes in contact with your teeth, it wears away at your teeth's enamel, just like an acid beverage or food would.

Do Get Treatment for Teeth Grinding or Clenching

If you suffer from bruxism, more commonly known as teeth grinding, or if you clench your teeth, you wear away and damage the enamel of your teeth. You may even suffer from a chipped tooth as a result of your habit. A dentist can help you prevent your top and bottom teeth from coming in contact with one another, which reduces your chances of chipping a tooth.

Do Get Enough Vitamins and Minerals

As mentioned above, your teeth go through a remineralization process that repairs damage to your enamel. For this process to occur, you need an adequate amount of minerals such as the following:

Vitamin D
Calcium
Magnesium
Vitamin K

You want to take the necessary steps to decrease the change that you'll chip a tooth. Proactive steps include diet and habit changes. It also helps to visit your dentist for more tips and routine dental care. Contact Rabel Family Dental , serving Baker, LA, and the nearby region, if you crack a tooth or want routine dental care.

Teeth Shifting: Causes, Effects, and Solutions

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 29 May 2020 20:08:25 GMT

You might think of your teeth as immovable objects set into your jawbone, when in reality they can and do shift their position over time. A variety of conditions and stimuli can cause teeth to move either toward each other or away from each other. This movement can result in bite alignment problems or unsightly gaps in your smile.

You can deal with this issue more effectively once you understand the basic causes, effects, treatments, and preventative measures associated with it. Here are some key points to guide your way.

Why Teeth Shift Position

A tooth attaches to its socket by means of a fibrous joint called a gomphosis. The tooth's periodontal ligament connects the socket to the outer layer of the tooth's root or roots. The periodontal ligament may affix the tooth in place fairly securely, but it can also stretch and move under the right conditions.

Age

Age plays a major role in the natural shifting of teeth. As you grow older, you can expect your teeth to move forward slightly in your mouth. This process may eventually crowd your front teeth to the point that you find it difficult to floss between them. The teeth may also become crooked as they press against each other.

Tooth Loss

Tooth loss presents a natural opportunity for teeth to shift, since they no longer have adjacent teeth holding them in their usual position. As these teeth shift, they create more space for other teeth to shift, eventually throwing your bite out of alignment - a problem known as malocclusion.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes may contribute to teeth shifting. For example, pregnancy-related changes include increased production of a hormone called relaxin. Relaxin loosens ligaments, which may have an impact on the teeth's periodontal ligaments. Hormonal changes can also alter blood flow to the gums.

Other Factors

Other factors that can encourage teeth shifting include smoking, acid erosion due to reflux disease or heavy alcohol consumption, and bruxism (nighttime tooth clenching or grinding). Even your sleep position may make you more vulnerable to teeth shifting, with stomach sleepers experiencing more trouble in this regard.

How You Can Correct and Prevent Teeth Shifting

Appliances such as braces can correct bite alignment problems caused by teeth shifting. The gentle forces exerted by the braces use the periodontal ligaments' natural elasticity to move the teeth back into their optimal positions. Plastic aligner trays can perform this same task in many cases of malocclusion.

Bear in mind that once you have corrected the position of your teeth, you must take steps to maintain that correction. If you have missing teeth, ask a dental team about tooth replacement options such as bridges or implants. These appliances can keep the proper amount of space between your remaining teeth.

A night guard may help you if you clench or grind your teeth. Your dentist can create a sturdy plastic device that fits your teeth precisely, holding them in position while also protecting them against abnormal forces. You may also receive advice on stress relief and other strategies for easing your bruxism.

If you worry that the time, effort, and expense you put into braces might come to nothing due to continued teeth shifting, keep wearing the retainers that came with your braces on a nightly basis. These devices can help to preserve your hard-won new dental alignment. Replace a broken or lost retainer immediately.

Lifestyle changes can make a big difference in controlling (or preventing) a teeth shifting problem. Drink alcohol in moderation, don't smoke at all, and look for a pillow or other support to help you sleep on your side or your back instead of your stomach. If you have acid reflux, ask your doctor about treatment options.

Rabel Family Dentistry can help you keep your teeth where they belong for many years to come. Contact our office to learn more and schedule a consultation.

Bonding Versus Veneers: Which Is Right For You?

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 18:13:02 GMT

Veneers and bonding are both good ways to improve your smile, but because these two types of dental restorations have so much in common, it can be hard to choose between them. While either can enhance your smile effectively, you should consider the specific benefits and drawbacks of each option before you decide which can work for you.

Here's what you should know about veneers and bonding.

What is Bonding?

Bonding uses a material made of composite resin. Your dentist can shape this highly pliable material to your tooth to create a completely natural appearance. The bonding material is also matched to your tooth color (or the desired tooth color).

Bonding is used for many reasons. It can:

Restore decayed teeth
Repair teeth cracks and chips
Alter tooth size
Lengthen short teeth
Fill gaps between teeth
Whiten teeth if traditional whitening methods don't work

Your dentist can typically complete bonding in one dental appointment, so you can see the results right away.

You don't generally have any restrictions with bonded teeth. But, because composite resin isn't as strong as your natural tooth enamel, you should avoid chewing non-food stuffs like popcorn kernels or ice.

What are Veneers?

Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or a porcelain composite material. They fit the outermost part of your tooth and are usually used for the front teeth.

This type of restoration is custom made for each tooth that requires restoration, and the porcelain color is matched to your natural tooth. Veneers are used for the same reasons as bonding, which means they can dramatically improve the appearance of your teeth.

For veneers, you generally need three dental appointments in total.

First visit : in the first visit, your dentist takes X-rays and plans your veneers based on the results.
Second visit : in your second visit, your dentist removes a very thin layer of tooth enamel, roughly equal to the thickness of your veneer. This means that your veneer won't stick out from your natural teeth once attached. Your dentist also takes impressions of the treated tooth, which the dental lab uses to craft your veneers. You'll usually get a temporary veneer to wear for the next 2-4 weeks until your new veneer is ready.
Third visit : during the third visit, your dentist removes your temporary veneer and then applies dental cement to secure your new permanent custom veneer.

With permanent veneers, you generally don't have any food restrictions since porcelain is extremely strong.

When is Bonding Best?

Bonding is less expensive than veneers, so it might be the right choice if you want to keep the restoration cost as low as possible. If you're short on time, bonding could also be a good choice because it takes just one appointment versus three for veneers.

Many patients also appreciate the fact that bonding doesn't require any major tooth prep as veneers do. It's a completely painless procedure.

When are Veneers Best?

If you're looking for a long-lasting restoration, veneers are usually the best choice since they can last 10 to 15 years . Veneers do cost more than bonding, but since you need to replace bonding every few years that cost can even out over time.

Veneers are also stronger than composite resin, which means that a tooth covered by a veneer is generally more resistant to chips or cracks that one treated with bonding. If you're willing to invest the time and don't mind the tooth preparation, veneers are generally the best way to restore your smile.

At Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry, our experienced team understands that every patient is different, so we offer both bonding and veneers. Reach out to our team online or by phone to book your consultation today.

Why Dry Mouth Can Be a Problem for Denture Wearers

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 31 Mar 2020 18:51:50 GMT

If you are missing most of your teeth, then you may want to consider getting full dentures so that you can eat and speak without a problem. Dentures can restore your smile and reduce appearances of sunken cheeks from missing teeth and deteriorating jaw structures. However, if you suffer from xerostomia, or dry mouth, it may be harder for dentures to stay securely in place.

Read on to learn more about dry mouth, why it's an issue for denture wearers, and how to fix the problem.

What Is Dry Mouth and What Causes It?

Dry mouth occurs when the salivary glands in your mouth don't produce enough saliva. If you suffer from dry mouth, you may have symptoms like:

Dehydration
Sore throat
Impaired sense of taste
Chapped lips
Bad breath
Gingivitis

While people tend to develop dry mouth as they age, this condition may be a side effect of other conditions, like sleep apnea or diabetes. Dry mouth can be a side effect of medications or certain treatments, like radiation therapy. It can also be caused by habits such as smoking.

Why Is Dry Mouth a Problem for Denture Wearers?

Although dentures are supported by your alveolar ridges - the jawbones that hold your tooth sockets - they are also held in place by suction. If you have dry mouth, it may be harder for your dentures to stay in place since you won't have enough saliva for the dentures to suction to the soft upper palate and the lower alveolar ridge.

Besides reducing retention, dry mouth poses a few other problems for denture wearers. Dentures that dry out too much can warp and you'll have to get refitted for new ones - that's why it's so important to take them out at night and put them in a wet cleaning solution. Dentures are made of strong materials, but if they become too dry, they can become brittle and break if you accidentally drop them.

People with dry mouth are more prone to developing yeast infections, like thrush. Thrush can cause white lesions on the tongue and inner cheeks and may cause sore throats or difficulty eating. This kind of infection can make it difficult to wear your dentures comfortably. Plus, thrush and other bacteria could contaminate the dentures and cause repeat infections if they aren't probably cleaned.

How Can You Fix the Problem?

If your dry mouth is caused by certain medications, then you may want to talk with your doctor about alternative options. It's a good idea to avoid tobacco products if possible and to stay well hydrated.

If you aren't able to eliminate symptoms of dry mouth, ask your dentist about products that can aid retention. There are some denture adhesives that are meant to moisturize gums and create a strong seal with the dentures.

When you take your dentures out at night, be sure to change soak them in a specialized cleaner that has a fresh solution every night. You may not be able to completely eliminate dry mouth, but cleaning and storing your dentures properly can keep them from drying out.

Lastly, if you are still weighing your options with different types of dentures, you may want to consider implant-secured dentures. These types of dentures are fixated to about four to six implant posts in the jawline. The posts are permanent, but the dentures can be popped on and off.

These types of dentures can reduce dry mouth because the implanted posts help to maintain the integrity and health of the jawbone since the bone tissues are exercised when you chew. These actions, in turn, can encourage better saliva flow.

Reach out to us at Rabel Family General Dentistry for more information about dry mouth and how it may affect your dentures.

Smile Simulations for Your Dental Procedures: What to Know

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 05 Mar 2020 15:22:27 GMT

It can be daunting to commit to major changes to your smile - such as implants, veneers, or orthodontic treatment. If you want to improve the look of your teeth, you may want to consult with a dental office that offers smile simulations.

What Is a Smile Simulation?

A smile simulation is one tool of digital dentistry technology. This software gives you a preview of what your teeth could look like after treatment is finished. Your dentist will upload a photo of you to a smiledesign program which can be edited so you can compare and contrast how different treatment options would affect your teeth.

What Are Some of the Benefits of a Smile Simulation?

If you are hesitant about proceeding with a treatment because of costs and other concerns, a smile simulation can assuage your fears. This technology offers many other benefits.

You Add Another Tool to the Planning Phase

Before your dentist will even begin changing your smile, he or she will want to establish a diagnostic record. Your dentist may:

Take your complete medical history to make sure you are healthy enough for certain treatments
Take photographs to give you before, during, and after pictures and to see how a treatment affects your face shape
Take x-rays to catch pre-existing conditions that could be potential problems during treatment
Take impressions of your teeth so that a dental lab can make a study model of your teeth. These study models will help your dentist understand how your teeth relate to one another and how he or she should proceed with the case.

In short, all of these actions help your dentist plan the best course of treatment and help him or her anticipate a final result. However, a lot of these diagnostic tools tend to help the dentist anticipate results rather than the patient. A smile simulation is a beneficial tool because it helps the patient feel more involved in the planning phase and helps him or her have a clearer picture of the final results.

You Get to Choose Your Aesthetic Preferences

If you plan to get veneers, dentures, crowns, or other restorations that alter the shape of your natural teeth, then you and your dentist need to decide on:

Tooth shape
Tooth color
Tooth size
Tooth translucency

In the past, when digital dentistry software wasn't available, a dentist would likely choose restorations based on certain factors - like your gender, age, and ethnicity. For instance, as a person ages, enamel becomes more translucent, so a younger person may want false teeth that are opaquer.

Men typically have larger teeth than women; and, variances in tooth shapes exist between different ethnicities. While these factors can certainly guide a dentist to pick the appropriate restorations, no one-size-fits-all solution is available.

A smile simulation is helpful because your dentist doesn't have to rely solely on these factors and guess what restorations you might like. Again, the smile simulation involves the patient more so you get a say in what you want your restorations to look like. Smile simulation software have smile libraries, so you can mix and match different tooth shades or sizes.

You Get to See the Big Picture

Some treatments may take a while to complete. For instance, if you want to get dental implants, you may need to get bone grafts and then wait for those to heal before surgery. And even once the implant is placed, you may have to wait even longer for the final crown to be constructed at a dental lab.

A smile simulation can help you see the bigger picture and motivate you to continue a lengthy treatment path even when it seems like no end is in sight. Plus, you could experience post-operative depression after more invasive dental treatments, so a smile simulation can be a great reminder that your body will heal and that you will get used to your new smile.

Reach out to us at Rabel Family Dentistry to learn more about smile simulations and their benefits.

Choose a Tooth-Friendly Gum to Prevent Cavities

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 30 Jan 2020 19:46:06 GMT

While you likely know that brushing and flossing your teeth on a daily basis are two keys to good oral health, you may be surprised to hear that you can also improve the health of your teeth by chewing gum on a regular basis. According to the ADA, chewing gum for just 20 minutes after each meal greatly reduces the risk of cavity development.

Read on to learn how chewing gum prevents cavities and how to choose a tooth-friendly gum.

How Chewing Gum Prevents Cavities

While chewing sugar-filled gum can promote cavity development, chewing sugar-free gum can benefit your oral health in many ways. Chewing sugar-free gum has been shown to increase the salivary production of the average mouth by about 10 to 14 times. Saliva is one of your body's main natural cavity-fighting tools. This increase in saliva production benefits your mouth in many ways.

Saliva neutralizes acids in your mouth that contribute to the development of cavities, tooth decay, and enamel erosion. In addition, saliva contains calcium, phosphorus, and fluoride (if you drink fluoride-containing water). As your teeth are bathed in saliva, these elements help strengthen your tooth enamel to further prevent cavities.

When you chew gum directly after a meal, this saliva also helps rinse food particles and sugars off your teeth before they begin wreaking havoc on your oral health.

While any sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production, you can obtain additional dental health benefits when you choose your gum carefully.

3 Tips for Choosing a Tooth-friendly Gum

1. Choose a Saliva-Stimulating Flavor

Some gum flavors stimulate saliva production more than others. Studies have shown that strawberry-flavored gum stimulates saliva production the most, especially during the first minute of chewing. Watermelon- and apple-flavored gums increase saliva production almost as much as strawberry-flavored gum.

If you prefer more traditional mint- or cinnamon-flavored gums, then realize that while these gums have not been shown to stimulate saliva production quite as much as the fruity flavors mentioned, spearmint- and cinnamon-flavored gums are more effective at lowering the acidity of your mouth than gums with fruit flavors.

2. Avoid Gum that Contains Citric Acid

Some sugar-free gums, especially those with sour flavors, contain citric acid. A gum that contains citric acid can increase the acidity of your entire mouth when you chew it. Cavity-causing bacteria flourish in an acidic mouth. Gum that contains citric acid can also cause tooth enamel erosion, especially when chewed frequently. Acid erosion is a form of chemical wear-and-tear on tooth enamel that cannot be reversed.

Check the label of the sugar-free gum you purchase to ensure it does not contain citric acid to make sure your gum improves your oral health instead of wreaking havoc on it.

3. Look for Sugar Substitutes that Kill Bacteria

Sugar-free gums are flavored with various sugar substitutes. Many are sweetened with sorbitol and/or maltitol, which are sugar substitutes that do not contribute to tooth decay. While these sugar substitutes are not bad for your oral health, gums that contains xylitol or erythritol offer additional dental health benefits beyond those offered by gums containing more common sugar substitutes.

When you chew gum sweetened with xylitol, cavity-causing oral bacteria consume the xylitol as they would sugar, which is their primary food source. However, these bacteria die after consuming xylitol instead of growing like they do after eating sugar.

Surprisingly, xylitol only kills the bad, cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth without affecting the healthy bacteria. Consuming xylitol may also help your body absorb more of the calcium you eat, which can help strengthen your teeth from the inside out.

If you cannot find a sugar-free gum that contains xylitol, then consider a gum sweetened with erythritol. Erythritol also kills cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth to further prevent cavities.

If you develop frequent cavities, then chew sugar-free gum several times each day, especially after meals. You may notice a dramatic drop in the number of cavities you develop. Contact Rabel Family Dentistry to schedule a dental exam with an experienced dentist who can also provide personalized dental health advice today.

Non-Surgical Gum Disease Treatment and Prevention

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 03 Jan 2020 04:48:06 GMT

Your gums are a good indicator of your overall oral health, and it's important to keep them clean and healthy. The mildest form of gum disease, gingivitis, is an infection that is contained within your gums. If you have gingivitis and don't receive proper treatment, the infection can spread into the bone and cause tooth loss. This type of gum disease is called periodontitis.

Gum disease puts you at greater risk for several other medical conditions, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, osteoporosis, and pneumonia. Common symptoms of gum disease include swollen gums, gums that bleed when you brush your teeth, gums that recede (making your teeth look longer), and bad breath.

Your dentist will check your gums during every routine appointment, so it's important to see your dentist at least once every six months. If you do have gum disease, regular dental care ensures your dentist can catch it early and provide proper treatment.

Scaling and Root Planing

If you have mild gingivitis or chronic periodontitis, your dentist may recommend that you come in for a deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing procedure. Scaling and root planing is a more thorough and involved cleaning process compared to regular maintenance cleaning. The procedure is done under a local anesthetic to numb your mouth.

Many patients experience tooth sensitivity, mild bleeding, and gum tenderness for up to a week after the procedure. Scaling and planing is preferable to other deep cleaning methods, however, because these side effects are usually more mild compared to other deep cleaning procedures.

Your dentist will scrape plaque and hardened tartar from your teeth along and under the gum line during the scaling portion of the procedure. Some dentists use manual hand tools for this procedure, while others use an ultrasonic device that helps break up the tartar or a laser.

Once all of the tartar is removed, your dentist will smooth out any rough parts of the tooth root during the planing part of the procedure. This helps get rid of any existing bacteria hidden in rough spots and gives your gums a clean, smooth surface to attach to.

Your dentist might place a small gelatin chip filled with antiseptic medication or an antibiotic gel in the periodontal pockets - the openings that form when your gums pull away from the teeth - after root planing to eliminate bacteria and reduce the size of the pockets.

Medication

Some dentists recommend gum disease patients use medications to treat gum disease. You can take medications on their own or you can use them in combination with deep cleaning procedures. Antimicrobial mouthwashes are a common medicated treatment because they're easy to use after you brush. You can also use oral antibiotics as a short-term treatment to kill bacteria that lead to gum disease.

Some gum disease patients benefit from oral enzyme suppressant medication, usually doxycycline. These medications help slow the body's enzyme response so enzymes that damage the gums can't act as quickly.

Proper Oral Hygiene and Prevention

Proper brushing and flossing techniques and regular visits to your dentist for a professional cleaning are the best ways to prevent gum disease and prevent it from getting worse. Brush and floss thoroughly at least twice a day. Don't neglect your gums when you brush. Choose a toothbrush with softer bristles if brushing your gums irritates them or causes them to bleed.

Your dental hygienist will remove the plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth and below the gum line. Plaque and hardened tartar allow bacteria to rest against and under your gums and can lead to gum disease.

Rabel Family Dental is a family-owned and operated dental clinic that serves patients of all ages in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule an appointment if you experience symptoms of gum disease.

Need Dentures? You May Need to Remove Tori First

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 12 Dec 2019 21:48:49 GMT

If you have a lot of missing teeth or severe decay in remaining ones, your dentist may recommend partial or full dentures. Dentures are much more than a cosmetic solution. You will talk and eat easier with dentures.

Additionally, when your teeth are severely decayed, you could be in a lot of pain and at risk for abscesses and infection. If you remove these decayed teeth and replace them with dentures, you'll improve your health and eliminate any oral pain.

Before you can get dentures, however, you may need to remove oral tori. Read on to learn more about these.

What Are Tori?

Tori are benign bony growths that can occur in the upper and lower jaw. Tori are usually near the molar or premolar area. In the upper jaw, they can be seen on the side of the palate; in the lower jaw, they are usually adjacent to the tongue. They may look like nodules of gum tissue and can be very big or very small. Some people have only one protrusion, while other people may have lobulated tori.

What Causes Tori?

Doctors aren't quite sure what causes tori, but they could be linked to bruxism (teeth grinding) or inflammatory responses.

Tori are also more common in males than females, as well as in Asian and Inuit populations.

Why Do You Need to Remove Tori for Dentures?

A lot of patients don't need to remove tori since they are just benign growths. However, they are often removed if a patient needs dentures. A few reasons for removal exist.

For dentures to fit properly, they need support from underlying bone structures. Upper dentures are supported by the hard palate and upper alveolar ridge, while the lower dentures are supported by the lower alveolar ridge and retromolar papilla, which is an area of soft tissue behind the wisdom teeth. If tori are in the way, then the dentures cannot properly fit around the underlying bone structures.

Improperly fitting dentures can be painful to wear since they may cause gum tissue to be pinched. Also, poor-fitting dentures can rock or become loose when you try to talk or eat. Food debris can also catch underneath tori, which could then work itself between the denture prosthetic and your ridges, thus causing pain.

Another possible issue that tori can cause is speech difficulties. You may need to adjust your speech patterns as you get used to full dentures, and tori can interfere with tongue movements and make that difficult.

Lastly, tori may need removal if you get immediate dentures. Immediate dentures go on the same day after the dentist removes natural teeth so that you don't have to go without teeth until the next dental visit. These dentures act like a bandage and protect gum tissue until final dentures can be processed. Again, if you have tori, then the immediate dentures may not fit properly.

What's the Surgery Like?

A general dentist or oral surgeon can excise the tori and then stitch up the surrounding gum tissue. While tori can be removed under local anesthetic, some offices opt for IV sedation - especially if you have a poor gag reflex.

The surgery is like a tooth extraction in terms of recovery. You can go home after surgery, but you may not be able to eat until the anesthetic wears off so that you don't accidentally bite your lips or cheek.

Your dentist may prescribe some painkillers, and he or she will give you an instruction pamphlet on what you can or cannot eat. You'll likely need to follow a soft food diet and try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth of the surgical site.

Once the tori are removed and the site is healed, then you can get dentures that properly fit. Contact us at Rabel Family Dentistry to learn more about dentures and what needs to be done beforehand to make sure they fit well.

What Causes Sores and Bumps in the Mouth?

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 18 Oct 2019 21:52:14 GMT

Do you have a sore or bump on the inside of your mouth? If the bump bothers you, is painful, or you don't know its cause, take a look at potential oral issues and what you can do about them.

Canker Sore

These small-sized ulcers can appear anywhere inside your mouth. The typical sites include the inside of the cheeks and lips, gums, or roof of the mouth.

Canker sores range in size and in the discomfort they cause. Some sores (minor canker sores) are small and cause relatively little discomfort, while the major type of this sore is often deep and seriously painful. The size, depth, and placement of the canker sore can all influence how much pain you're in.

Some dental patients also develop herpetiform canker sores. These occur in clusters up to 10 and typically heal within a week or two. Most minor canker sores heal within a few weeks on their own. Major sores can take up to six weeks to completely heal.

Even though canker sores can cause pain, you still need to maintain proper oral hygiene. If it hurts to brush or floss, talk to the dentist about ways to accommodate your oral issue. You may need to temporarily discontinue irritating alcohol-based mouthwashes or switch to a smaller/softer toothbrush.

Mucocele Cysts

Mucoceles are fluid-filled mucous cysts that form in the mouth or on the lips. These cysts are often painless and form when mucous clogs salivary glands due to injury. Trauma from accidentally biting your cheek or lip or even poor dental hygiene practices can result in these cysts.

Symptoms of mucoceles often include raised swelling (a bump), softness in the area, tenderness, or a bluish/whitish color.

While these cysts are sometimes painless, they still require professional attention. The dentist will evaluate the mucocele and determine what to do next. It's possible for the cyst to heal on its own, without medical intervention. Some mucoceles may require laser therapy, cryotherapy (freezing), or corticosteroid injections.

Squamous Papilloma

The human papilloma virus (HPV) can cause small-sized lesions or bumps in the mouth. These bumps often have a cauliflower-like appearance and grow slowly. Even though HPV can cause cancer, the presence of a bump doesn't necessarily indicate the disease. Always have a dental or other medical professional evaluate potential squamous papilloma lesions.

Accidental Injury

Did you bite your cheek or your tongue? A bite, burn, scratch or other injury from your own teeth, food, or an object can cause a trauma-related bump.

This type of bump varies in size, shape, appearance, and pain level. The more serious the trauma, the more likely you'llthat you'll feel a larger bump or have increased discomfort. While most minor mouth injuries resolve on their own, infection and other oral issues can complicate this problem.

If you have a mouth injury and excessive pain, bleeding that won't stop, fever, increased swelling, or a bad taste/odor in your mouth, contact the dentist as soon as possible. It's possible the injury is infected or you may require additional treatment (beyond at-home care, such as ice packs or over the counter pain medication).

Torus Palatinus

These bony growths occur on the roof of the mouth and come in several different possible shapes. While some dental patients experience rounder bumps, these growths can also feel flat or happen in clusters.

Even though a single cause hasn't been identified , genetics, diet, teeth grinding, or increased bone density may play roles in the development of torus palatinus . In most cases, treatment isn't necessary. But if you aren't sure whether you have this issue or the bump interferes with your ability to speak, eat, or care for your teeth, talk to your dentist about treatment options.

Do you have a bump or sore in your mouth? Contact Rabel Family Dentistry for more information.

Tips to Safely Dress Up Your Teeth for Halloween

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 02 Oct 2019 09:16:52 GMT

The spooky season is well on its way, and you may already be contemplating your perfect Halloween costume. These days, getting access to all those super-cool accessories to really make a costume authentic is easy, thanks to the internet. From costume contacts to change the color or shape of your eyes to hairpieces and costume fangs - you can do a lot of fun things.

Changing the appearance of your teeth may be something you want to do to complete your Halloween costume, but some Halloween fads these days have to be used with precautions. Whether you are planning to install temporary fangs for a vampire costume or blackout your teeth to look like a goblin, read these few tips to keep in mind so your fun doesn't harm your teeth.

Be Careful with Cosmetic Fangs with Adhesives

These days, fangs are far more realistic in appearance and far more advanced. The fangs usually come in sets of two that slip right over the canines and can be held in place with a dental adhesive. The dental adhesive included with cosmetic fangs should be temporary and wash off easily, but you do have to be careful about the products you use.

Some low-quality fangs you find may come with toxic glue that is not safe for your teeth and not easy to remove. In 2018, a woman installed a pair of fangs to complete her zombie look and had to have them removed by an emergency dentist because she couldn't remove them on her own. Buy fangs only from a trustworthy source and if in doubt, use denture glue to make them stick.

Watch Out for Staining Wax Coatings for Blacking Out Teeth

Blacked-out teeth are the ideal finishing touch for all kinds of costumes, and you have plenty of options for products to help you achieve the look. Make sure you are careful with the products you pick so you don't end up with ugly enamel stains after Halloween is over. Most products are simply created out of a colored wax that will peel away easily when you're done.

Teeth blackout products may not good to use if:

You have veneers that may stain easier than normal teeth
You have braces, a retainer, or something the waxy bits may get stuck on or behind
You have just had your teeth whitened and they are more susceptible to stains

Keep in mind that tutorials on how to blackout your teeth for Halloween are easy to find, but not all of those tutorials are safe. Using things like a permanent marker, nail polish, or certain types of makeup are not good options to layer onto the teeth. Look for non-toxic products designed for the purpose only.

Be Careful with Grills or Dental Jewelry

Your rap star outfit needs a grill to be perfect and you find a snazzy one online all decked out in fake diamonds and a lot of glitz. The cosmetic grill is removable and most are perfectly safe, but you need to watch out for certain things when picking out this kind of mouth jewelry, such as:

Grills or jewelry made out of metal that has lead components
Pieces that have sharp edges that could cut your lips or gums
Grills that fit too tight against your teeth

The America Dental Association also recommends that you remove your mouth jewelry while eating and clean your teeth before putting the piece back on. Likewise, you should not wear these pieces for too long or use unsafe glue to make them stay in place.

Dressing up your smile for Halloween is a lot of fun. However, make sure you don't do anything unsafe to harm your mouth in the process. Reach out to us at Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry for advice.

Is Your Headache From Oral Complications?

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 00:00:00 GMT

If you get frequent headaches, instead of blocking the pain with pain medications, consider finding the source of your reoccurring headaches. In many cases, your headache may actually relate to your oral health. If you want to better protect your oral health and stop headaches from reoccurring, keep reading to learn how various oral compilations can lead to headaches and head pain.

Teeth Grinding

People grind their teeth for many reasons. If you catch yourself doing it during the day, this is probably from stress and/or anxiety. If you tend to grind your teeth at night, however, you may have something wrong with your bite. Other patients may suffer from teeth grinding due to sleep apnea or crooked teeth.

You may not even be aware if you grind your teeth at night, so look for the signs and symptoms of teeth grinding, including worn teeth, flat teeth, sensitive teeth, and jaw pain, particularly in the TMJ, which is in charge of opening and closing your mouth. Grinding your teeth irritates this joint, causing it to become tight. This pulls on other muscles connected to your head, leading to frequent headaches.

Treatment depends on the reason you grind your teeth. If it's stress, consider talking with your doctor about counseling, an exercise program, or medications. If the reason is a sleep disorder, talk to your doctor and dentist about CPAP machines or oral devices to prevent your throat from collapsing. Last, if the cause is crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, you'll likely need orthodontic treatment.

Radiating Pain

Sometimes, your headache isn't really a headache. Pain can radiate to nearby parts of your body. This is why when you have a toothache, you might find it difficult to determine which tooth actually needs attention.

This happens because of the path the pain sensors take to reach your brain. Many areas of the body use the same nerve pathways. Therefore, you may have a toothache, but as the pain travels to your brain, it follows the same path as head muscles, radiating pain to them.

Since you can't adjust your nerve pathways, you have no way to prevent or treat radiating pain unless you treat the underlying oral condition. Identifying the problem can be easy, if the tooth is clearly decaying, but if you have an underlying infection that causes the radiating pain, you may not know until your dentist takes X-rays.

Infections

If an infection does develop, root canal therapy is usually a requirement, but if treatment doesn't come fast enough, the infection is aggressive, or your tooth roots penetrate the sinus cavity, it can spread to your sinuses, making you feel like you have a terrible sinus headache. Sinus headaches usually affect your cheekbones, forehead, and the bridge of your nose.

The pain worsens if you suddenly move your head, such as leaning forward or standing up too fast. In many cases, the infection may not have actually spread to your sinuses. Instead, it may just be putting extra pressure on the sinus cavity.

You'll be able to determine if you have a sinus infection or just sinus pain when you blow your nose. The mucous will be discolored like pus. You may also have flu-like symptoms including a sore throat, fever, and cough. If you do have sinus pain without flu-like symptoms, you probably don't have a sinus infection.

Oral pain can make life miserable, and it doesn't always remain in your mouth. A lot of oral pain can radiate to your head, making you feel like you have a tension or sinus headache constantly. If you would like more information, contact us today at Rabel Family Dental.

Wisdom Teeth Removal: What You Need To Know

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 23 Jul 2019 06:37:00 GMT

Wisdom teeth are the third molars in the back of the mouth. You may believe they have to be removed. However, wisdom teeth removal is not always necessary. Here are some things to think about before you move forward with removing your wisdom teeth.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

As previously mentioned, wisdom teeth are molars in the back of your mouth on the upper and lower jaw. These teeth come in last, usually in later adolescence to early adulthood. They are referred to as wisdom teeth due to when they erupt.

You may keep your wisdom teeth, while others may choose to have the teeth removed. You can have the teeth removed before or after they erupt through the gums.

What Are Some Problems Caused by Wisdom Teeth?

For some people, the wisdom teeth cannot grow in due to the size of the mouth. Additionally, when wisdom teeth grow through the gums, they sometimes come in at different angles.

Wisdom teeth can also cause issues if they stay completely inside the gums and never erupt. This means the teeth are impacted and can cause pain and infection. A cyst can form on the gum which can damage the jaw bone and the other teeth in the area. The infection can damage the gums as well.

Wisdom teeth can also partially erupt through the gums. A partial eruption makes proper cleaning of the teeth more difficult. This results in excess bacteria growth and increased decay.

The teeth also cause other teeth in the area to become crowded.

When wisdom teeth do not have enough room to come through, they can also cause your other teeth to shift, which results in crooked teeth. If you have invested in orthodontia to straighten your teeth, wisdom teeth can cause damage to the alignment.

Are There Risks with Having Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Although wisdom teeth removal can be beneficial, there are some risks associated with doing so. You could have some swelling and pain along with dry socket in the location of the tooth. You could also suffer from excessive bleeding or gums that are slow to heal. The removal can also damage any surrounding bridges you have as well as the roots of other teeth.

If a wisdom tooth is removed from the top jaw, it could also cause an opening into the sinus cavity. All of these risks are rare, but you should be aware before making a final decision.

When Should You Have Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Ideally, your dentist should begin looking at your wisdom teeth as a teenager. As you age, your bones are more brittle, making the process more difficult and painful. When you have your exam, the dentist will check to see if you have wisdom teeth and whether or not to remove them. If they should be removed, your dentist will help you develop a plan to move forward.

When Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Unnecessary?

There are some instances in which it is not necessary to have your wisdom teeth removed. If you can reach them to clean the teeth thoroughly, you can leave them in. If the teeth are healthy and free of decay or are fully erupted, you can leave them in as long as they are in the correct position and are in line with your bite.

If you have any questions about wisdom teeth or if you have other dental needs, please contact us at Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry . We offer general dentistry procedures from Baker to Port Allen. Please contact us if you would like to schedule an appointment. Call us today!

4 Potential Complications of Extractions and How to Avoid Them

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Mon, 24 Jun 2019 02:27:40 GMT

No one is excited about getting a tooth pulled, but sometimes, it has to happen. While most patients experience no adverse effects after treatment, there are a few potential complications of which you should be aware. If you are going to have a tooth pulled, check out these four potential complications, so you can learn how to avoid them.

1. Bleeding

After getting a tooth pulled, bleeding is normal, but if you have blood-clotting problems, or are taking medications to slow blood clotting, you may have more bleeding than normal. You'll want to talk with your dentist before the procedure.

Unless you have a complication, the bleeding should only last about one to two hours, and you can help slow the blood and create a clot in the empty root hole, by keeping gauze in your mouth and biting down until there seems to be no more blood. If you are in pain, make sure to avoid aspirin because it is a natural blood-thinner.

2. Dry Socket

One common complication, which you can usually avoid is a dry socket. A dry socket is when the blood clot that forms after tooth extraction is removed. In some cases, the clot never forms, but usually, the patient themselves causes the dry socket by accidently removing the clot. Any activity that involves sucking, such as smoking or using a straw may cause you to also suck out the blood clot. Too much brushing or rinsing can also lead to dry socket.

If you do develop a dry socket, you'll know pretty fast because they are extremely painful, and over-the-counter pain medicines will be too weak to dull the pain. If you look inside your mouth, you may actually be able to see that the blood clot is missing, and in few cases, you can even see your jawbone.

3. Infection

Mouths are dirty, so infection is always a possibility after any extraction. With simple extractions, an infection is less common, unless you already have a tooth infection or you completely neglect brushing after the extraction. If you start to notice pain or pus, go back to your dentist to see if you have developed an infection.

If you get a surgical extraction, or you already have a tooth abscess, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to prevent an infection. Usually, you can tell you have an infection from pain, but if there is no pain, look for other signs. Particularly, check for any pus coming from the tooth's socket. The pus will also cause bad breath and an unpleasant taste in your mouth.

4. Fracture

When removing a tooth, it's common for the tooth to break, but it doesn't matter since the tooth is being extracted anyway. However, if a piece of the tooth is left behind, this can lead to an infection or cyst later down the road. The dentist may also accidently damage nearby healthy teeth if they are hit with the tools or tooth.

Applying the right pressure to pull a tooth is crucial. Your dentist must apply enough to fully remove the tooth, but applying too much pressure can fracture the jawbone. This is more common, however, if you already have a weak jawbone from age or gum disease. Your dentist will likely be able to tell you if you are at risk of a jaw fracture. Unfortunately, there isn't' really any way to prevent fracture except for keeping your jawbone strong.

Some teeth need to be extracted. Perhaps they are severely damaged, or there just isn't enough room in your mouth. Usually, the process goes smoothly, but there are always possible complications to any dental or medical procedure. If you would like to know more about tooth extraction and how to care for your mouth after extraction, contact us at Rabel Family Dental today.

How Eating Disorders May Harm a Teen's Dental Health

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Sat, 25 May 2019 00:00:00 GMT

If you fear that your teen has an eating disorder, a variety of concerns may be running on a loop in your brain. You should know that you're not alone. According to the National Eating Disorders Association, eating disorders have risen unprecedentedly within the past two decades, and around half a million teens struggle with them now.

There is no definite conclusion on what causes an eating disorder. It's believed that a perfect storm of psychological, biological, and sociocultural factors leads to a teen developing an eating disorder. As the parent, you can help support your teen by first getting informed about the many effects of an eating disorder. Consider how eating disorders may harm a teen's dental health.

The Nutritional Deficiency Can Wreak Havoc on the Teeth

If your teen suffers with anorexia or bulimia, they are most likely not getting adequate nutrition. A nutritional deficiency can harm the teeth and gums in multiple ways. For example, a lack of vitamin C, folic acid, or riboflavin can lead to swollen gums. Not getting enough vitamin B3 can cause canker sores and stinky breath.

Nutrients necessary to optimal oral health include iron, calcium, and B vitamins. Not only does the body need calcium for healthy teeth and gums, but it also needs vitamin D so that the body can absorb the calcium. If a teen doesn't get enough iron in their diet, they may find sores in their mouth. No teen wants the gum disease and dental decay that can result from poor nutrition.

Even Teens Can Get Arthritis

Most people don't associate arthritis with young people. However, a teen with anorexia or bulimia may develop degenerative arthritis from a hormone imbalance or lack of adequate nutrition. This degenerative arthritis can impact the two temporomandibular joins that connect a person's skull to their lower jaw.

When arthritis is in the temporomandibular joint in the teen's jaw, they may experience pain, and it can be difficult to chew. That can further complicate issues with eating. The pain may make it difficult for a teen to even open and close their mouth. It may also cause recurring headaches.

Stomach Acid Can Erode Tooth Enamel

When a bulimic frequently vomits, they consistently force stomach acids over their teeth. These stomach acids can erode the enamel on a teen's teeth, and the teeth then may become discolored. They can even become brittle and weak. A teen may then suffer from extreme tooth sensitivity without that protective enamel on their teeth, and they may lose many teeth.

Once tooth enamel is gone, you can't get it back. The good news is that a teen can do a lot to protect the enamel on their teeth before it's too late. Obviously, they must seek help from an eating disorder specialist to stop the self-harming vomiting.

Preventative Care Can Minimize Some of the Damage

While a teenager gets treatment for the eating disorder, help them be proactive about caring for their dental health. During treatment, encourage your teen to brush their teeth at least twice daily. They should also floss or use an interdental cleaning device once every day. Teens should ask their dentist to recommend a mouthwash that will optimally meet their needs.

Be sure a teen who has not fully recovered from bulimia isn't brushing right after throwing up. If someone throws up, the American Dental Association cautions that it's better to rinse the mouth out with baking soda to neutralize the stomach acid that comes up in the mouth when vomiting. However, an effective treatment plan for bulimia should help the teen stop throwing up.

Finally, eating disorders have an impact on a teen's health in many ways beyond their oral health. Get immediately medical help for your teen if they struggle with bulimia, anorexia, and binge eating. Also, take your teen for regular dental check-ups and discuss any concerns with them. Contact Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry for an appointment today.

Pregnancy, Gum Disease, Tumors, and Tooth Decay

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 03:02:30 GMT

Finding out that you're pregnant is so exciting, but in amongst the excitement, you're sure to also be surprised by some of the unexpected changes going on in your body. Women frequently talk about the weight gain, nausea, and tender breasts associated with pregnancy — but they rarely mention the oral problems so prevalent in pregnant women.

If you are experiencing some changes in your mouth during pregnancy, you're not alone. Hormonal changes affect the teeth and gums in ways you never would have imagined. Thankfully, there are easy ways to prevent and manage each of the three most common dental problems among pregnant women.

1. Gum Disease

Early-stage gum disease, known as gingivitis, occurs in about 40 percent of pregnant women and can progress to a more serious form of gum disease, called periodontitis, if not treated well. Luckily, the symptoms of gingivitis are easy to recognize:

Bleeding from the gums when brushing
Sensitivity of the gums
Redness of the gums
Swelling of the gums

Gum disease is caused by bacteria, and the increased levels of progesterone in your body during pregnancy make it more difficult for your body to fight off those bacteria. You can help by keeping your teeth and gums very clean. Spend a little longer brushing, and really focus on the gum line. Floss every day, and start using an antimicrobial mouthwash after brushing.

Contrary to what well-meaning people may have told you, you can absolutely visit your dentist for a cleaning appointment while pregnant — and you should. A professional cleaning removes tartar from along the gum line, which goes a long way in fighting gum disease.

2. Tooth Decay

Pregnant ladies are also at an increased risk of tooth decay because of the effects of progesterone on the immune system. But tooth decay is also a concern because of morning sickness. Stomach contents are very acidic. They may have a pH as low as 1.5, whereas a healthy mouth has a pH of around 7.1 to 7.5. Frequent exposure to stomach contents during vomiting can weaken your tooth enamel and make decay more likely.

As with gum disease, you can help fight tooth decay with proper brushing and flossing. But you should follow a few other tips, too, especially if you suffer from morning sickness:

Rinse your mouth with water after vomiting.
Wait 30 minutes after vomiting to brush your teeth so that you don't further damage the weakened enamel.
Chew sugar-free gum during the day to boost saliva production and balance out the pH inside your mouth.

Talk to your doctor for tips and advice to reduce morning sickness and nausea. Many women find that eating small amounts more often and eating something small before they get out of bed help.

3. Pregnancy Tumors

The word tumor makes this condition sound a lot more serious than it really is. Pregnancy tumors are benign tumors — they are not cancerous — and they show up on the gums of up to 5 percent of pregnant women. Pregnancy tumors are generally raised, well-defined nodules between 0.5 and 2.5 centimeters in size. Some women find them painful; others don't notice any pain.

Researchers are not sure what causes pregnancy tumors, but they are thought to be related to changes in hormone levels. Poor oral hygiene and gingivitis put you at a higher risk for pregnancy tumors, so as emphasized above, taking good care of your teeth and gums during pregnancy is paramount.

If you do notice what you think to be a pregnancy tumor on your gums, bring it to the attention of your dentist. They can confirm that the tumor is not something more sinister. Many pregnancy tumors shrink on their own after a woman gives birth, but if yours linger or are painful, you can have them excised — likely via laser or cryosurgery.

If you are struggling with gingivitis, tooth decay, or tumors during pregnancy, make an appointment with Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry . What you're experiencing is very common, and we can recommend treatments that are effective and safe for both you and your baby.

What You Need to Know About Dry Socket and Wisdom Tooth Removal

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Mon, 25 Feb 2019 02:36:17 GMT

Removing wisdom teeth is a smart move for teens and adults who don't have the space for this third row of molars. While removal is typically viewed as a minor procedure, the possibility of dry socket exists. If you have concerns about developing dry socket, take a look at the answers to some of the top questions that wisdom tooth removal patients have.

How Does Dry Socket Happen?

This often-painful dental issue is a condition that can happen following any permanent tooth extraction — including wisdom teeth removal. In most extractions, a blood clot forms at the removal site. The clot protects the bone (jaw bone) and nerves that are exposed after the dentist removes the tooth. If the clot doesn't form, falls out, or moves away from the extraction site, dry socket is the result.

Without the blood clot covering the extraction site, the socket (the empty space where the wisdom tooth formerly was) is exposed. Not only is the physical space exposed, but the nerves and bone underneath it are too. Having this area exposed creates serious pain.

When Does Dry Socket Occur?

Dry socket can happen any time prior to the incision fully healing. In most cases, patients heal anywhere from 7 to 10 days following extraction. If premature breakdown or displacement of the clot is the cause of dry socket, the condition may take a few days (post-op) to develop.

What Increases the Risk of Dry Socket Development?

Some cases of dry socket happen for no known reason. While a clot can dislodge for any number of reasons, failure to follow the dentist's post-surgery instructions may increase the chances of dry socket happening. These instructions include when it's advisable to remove the gauze, how much rest you should get, when it's acceptable to return to normal activity, and what to eat or drink.

Patients with gum disease, those who smoke (which decreases blood supply to the mouth), and anyone who has had a serious or traumatic surgery are more at risk for developing dry socket.

What Are the Dry Socket Red Flags?

The most obvious symptom of dry socket is intense pain. Wisdom tooth extraction on its own is often painful. Normal tooth removal pain should gradually decrease over time. Dry socket pain may have the reverse effect, worsening several days after surgery.

Along with pain, you may have an odd or unpleasant taste in your mouth or bad breath. It's also possible to see the empty socket or bone underneath, but the patient usually cannot see it on their own. Never poke, prod, or in any other way manually move your mouth around to investigate a possible dry socket. Instead, leave this exam to the dentist.

Should You See a Dentist for Dry Socket?

Any abnormal or worrisome pain following wisdom tooth extraction requires a professional consultation. If you suspect you have dry socket, arrange for a follow-up appointment. The dentist will then examine the area, determine whether you have dry socket, and recommend a treatment to relieve the pain.

Failure to get professional help may worsen the situation. If left untreated, the pain may intensify, food and other debris may get trapped in the area, or an infection may develop.

What Is the Treatment for Dry Socket?

The dentist will evaluate your specific condition and recommend a treatment plan. This may include rinsing the area with a medicated mouthwash or a saltwater mixture. You may also need to cover the area with medicated gauze, which can reduce the risk of infection and stop food and other debris from entering the socket.

Ice packs and anti-inflammatory or over-the-counter pain relievers can also help to relieve discomfort.

Do you need a wisdom tooth extraction? Contact Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry for more information.

Why You Should Opt for Metal-Free Dental Restorations

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 09:03:52 GMT

You can categorize dental restorations into two main groups: metal and non-metal restorations. For example, you can choose between metal dental fillings (such as gold and silver amalgam) and porcelain dental fillings. Both categories have their pros and cons, but the following features of non-metal fillings stand out.

Strength and Durability

People think that metal dental crowns are stronger than metal-free crowns, but that is not the case. The composite dental crowns bond together with the teeth to form a strong bond that strengthens your weak tooth. The composite crown is a single piece of material, which reduces the risk of it being damaged. The design makes the metal-free crown more durable than the metal crown.

Natural Appearance

Although dental crowns strengthen and restore damaged teeth, people also use dental crowns for aesthetic reasons. For example, if part of your teeth is chipped or broken, you can use a dental crown to cover up the damage.

If your primary goal is to improve your smile or appearance, then you are better off with metal-free crowns instead of metal crowns. This is because metal-free crowns have a more natural look than metal crowns. With metal crowns, people will easily notice that you have a foreign material on your teeth, which isn't necessarily true with metal-free crowns.

No Allergic Reaction

A small percentage of the population is allergic to some of the metals found in metal restorations. The allergic reactions irritate and inflame the soft tissues of the mouth, such as the gums. Such allergies may force you to replace your dental restorations.

Fortunately, metal-free dental restorations don't trigger allergic reactions. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about the irritations or the need to replace your dental restorations due to the irritations.

No Worries About Mercury

The metal amalgam in dental restorations contains mercury as one of the metal components. Mercury is usually poisonous, but the amounts in dental restorations are safe for healthy adults. However, research has not ruled that the mercury amounts in dental restorations are safe for pregnant mothers, fetuses, and children under the age of six.

Although the composite dental restorations don't contain any known poisonous substances, if you want to err on the side of caution, you are better off with the non-metal restorations.

Low Risk of Infection

Metal restorations typically consist of separate pieces of materials. A titanium implant, for example, is two pieces of titanium that manufacturers have fused together. In case the two pieces shift after treatment, they may create a space between them which bacteria might exploit, leading to an infection. You don't have to worry about this risk if you get a metal-free treatment.

No Metal Absorption

If you have metal dental devices in your mouth, some of the metal ions may leak and get absorbed in your mouth. For example, research has shown that natural teeth absorb some of the nickel , chromium, and iron in stainless steel dental crowns.

Even if the dangers of the absorption are not clear, you may want to err on the side of caution and use metal-free dental devices to avoid such risks.

Price

Lastly, you also have to consider the issue of price. Most of the metals in dental devices are premium metals that are not cheap. If you want to restore damaged teeth inexpensively, you are better off with the metal-free restorations. The price advantage is even more apparent if you need to restore multiple teeth.

Rabel Family Dentistry General Dentistry can help you restore your damaged teeth whether you want metal or non-metal restorations. In the end, even the metal restorations are better than no restoration at all. Contact us for all your dental problems, and we will do our best to strengthen your teeth and make them beautiful again.

Teens, Smokeless Tobacco, and Dental Health

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 27 Nov 2018 02:49:41 GMT

Six percent of American high schoolers use smokeless tobacco, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). If your teen thinks chewing tobacco is a safe alternative to smoking cigarettes, take a look at how you can help them to understand why it's a seriously unhealthy habit.

Discuss Health Problems

What's the problem with chew? There are many ways to answer this question — and all of them come with serious health consequences. Your teen needs to look at the big picture and understand how smokeless tobacco can negatively affect their health now and in the future.

The primary health-related problems that chewing tobacco can cause include:

Cancer . Chewing tobacco is the main culprit behind several different types of cancers. These primarily include cancers of the mouth, esophagus, and pancreas.
Gum disease . Flossing and regular dental visits can help to reduce the risks of gum disease. But chewing tobacco can minimize these benefits and increase the likelihood of bleeding, sensitive, red, or inflamed gums, along with serious periodontal disease.
Oral bone loss . Smokeless tobacco can cause the tissue and bone that surrounds the roots of the teeth to wear away. This can lead to tooth loss.
Tooth scratching . Chewing smokeless tobacco products can scratch the tooth's enamel or wear it down.
Dental decay . The constant chewing motion and use of smokeless tobacco can change the way your body produces saliva. Without the correct saliva balance, your teen is at a greater risk for plaque development and dental decay.

Along with these health issues, chewing tobacco can also cause other dental problems. These include oral aesthetic issues that your teen won't want to encounter.

Review Aesthetic Issues

Your teen spends what seems like hours in front of the mirror, perfecting their hair and making sure that they're wearing the coolest clothes. When it comes to their smile, bright pearly whites are always in vogue.

You might find it effective to remind your teen that the effects of chewing tobacco are evident every time they smile. These include:

Discoloration . Consistently chewing tobacco can turn would-be white teeth a yellowish or brownish color. While teeth whitening products and procedures can correct this issue, future tobacco use will re-stain the teeth.
Worn enamel . Yellow teeth aren’t always a product of staining. As smokeless tobacco wears away the white enamel, it exposes the yellow dentin beneath, creating a yellow smile.
Leukoplakia . These white patches can appear on inside of cheeks, on the tongue, or on the gums. Not only are these oral lesions an aesthetic issue, but they are also pre-cancerous.
Bad breath . Even though this technically isn't an aesthetic issue, it's a problem that could make your teen self-conscious.

If you're teen doesn't understand (or doesn't care about) these issues, show them what their future looks like. Use photos or videos of real dental patients who suffer from smokeless tobacco–related dental staining, decay, and disease to get your point across.

Talk to a Professional

Teens are infamous for not believing their parents. If your adolescent won't listen to you or refuses to engage in a discussion about the perils of chewing tobacco, have your child talk to a professional.

Use your teen's bi-annual dentist visit as an oral education opportunity. Call ahead and explain the situation to the dentist or dental office staff. The dentist can assess any tobacco-related damage and look for signs of pre-cancerous or cancerous lesions. They can also talk to your teen about the effects of smokeless tobacco, providing detailed information on the dangers of this substance.

Does your teen use smokeless tobacco? Do you want a dental professional to counsel your child on the issues that chewing can cause? Contact Rabel Family Dental for more information.

Considering Implants? Top 3 Facts You Need to Know

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Mon, 29 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

If you have one or multiple missing teeth, you probably know how important a full and complete smile is. Restoring your smile is possible with many innovative options in dentistry, such as dentures, veneers, bridge, and implants.

An estimated 3 million people currently have dental implants, and that number grows by the day. If you want this form of smile restoration, first gain a proper understanding of dental implants beforehand. With this guide and the help of your dentist, you will be more familiar with the benefits and process involved with implant dentistry.

1. Different Dental Implant Types Exist

Dentists don't go for a one-size-fits-all approach with implants. Instead, they customize implants to your teeth's size and condition. After a detailed consultation, your dentist will be able to determine which implant is right for your specific needs.

The most common type of dental implant is an endosteal implant, which refers to the implant being IN the actual bone. Implants placed on the actual bone are subperiosteal implants.

Endosteal implants are best for patients who wear dentures or removable dentures. If you cannot wear traditional dentures for one reason or another, your dentist will suggest subperiosteal implants.

2. Dental Implants Are Not a Quick Fix

Another fact that you should know is that dental implants are not a quick fix. You cannot walk into your dentist's office and walk out with a completely new implant on the same day. Implant dentistry is a process that requires patience and understanding.

The first appointment will be a consultation where your dentist can determine if you are a good candidate for implants and what type is best. If you have damaged teeth that the dentist must remove or insufficient bone mass that requires a bone graft, these procedures must be done first.

Once your jaw has healed from extractions or bone grafts, the dentist will surgically place a metal post into the jaw. The dentist will also secure an abutment, which acts as an extension from the jaw to the artificial tooth, to the implant. Your jaw will need to heal for a few weeks or even months before the next phase of the implantation procedure.

Finally, the dentist places artificial teeth onto the abutment. The artificial teeth were made from molds of your actual teeth.

From beginning to end, the entire process can take a few months. Although this is a lengthy process to commit to, dental implants are a worthwhile investment.

3. Dental Implants Have a High Success Rate

If you still have doubts about whether implants are right for you, know that dental implants are the best option for long-term success. In fact, recent studies have shown that dental implants can last 40 to 50 years or longer, giving them a success rate of over 95 percent .

Know what you need to do to protect the durable, natural, and successful nature of your implants.

Make sure you continue visiting your dentist for routine cleanings and exams even after you receive your implants. This is the best way to fight plaque, tartar, decay, and gum disease, which can affect not only your implants but also your surrounding natural teeth and gum tissue.

You should also continue brushing and flossing as normal. Experts recommend brushing twice a day and flossing once a day to remove food residue and bacteria on and in between the teeth and gums.

Break a few habits that may damage your teeth. Forego using tobacco products. This will protect your implants and natural teeth from stains, decay, and gum disease.

Avoid using your teeth and implants as tools as well, since this can damage your natural teeth and implants. Never use your teeth to open packages or bottles.

Dental implants are an excellent option in smile restoration. To learn more about implants, contact Rabel Family Dentistry today.

Vaping: The Not-So-Safe Smoking Alternative

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 04 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Vaping is widely popular and often marketed as a healthier alternative to smoking. However, the word healthier is highly relative. While vaping is not the same as smoking a cigarette, vaping can bring about all sorts of adverse effects, including many concerning oral health issues.

Keep your health priority number one. Learn more about some of the oral health concerns you could face when vaping, so you can protect your mouth, teeth, and gums.

Gums

The mouth is a complex structure that has many functioning parts. Therefore, every system within the mouth has an essential role, including your gum tissue. Think of your gums as an anchoring system for your teeth. When you bite into hard food or even suffer light trauma to the mouth, your gums help keep your teeth in place.

Vaping can put you on the path to gum disease because the practice can agitate the gum tissue cells. Gum disease is a serious oral health issue that can cause permanent damage to the structure of your gums, which may produce a deterioration effect. Chewing difficulties, tender gums, and tooth loss are some of the costs associated with having gum disease.

The frequency at which you vape will play a significant role in your risk for gum tissue damage. Consequently, the more you vape, the higher the threat. Additionally, vaping when you are already at risk for gum disease is especially problematic because it puts more stress on your already weak gums.

Breath Odors

Breath odor is a well-known result of smoking cigarettes. Contrary to popular belief, vaping doesn't offer much relief in this area. Even though you won’t smell like cigarettes, vaping cause conditions that produce bad breath. Vaping liquids contain an ingredient known as propylene glycol. Glycol is used because it has a sweet, palatable taste and produces vapors when heated. However, the glycol also has a drying effect on the mouth.

Saliva is essential because it helps wash away some of the odor-causing bacteria naturally found in the mouth. When your mouth is dry, the bacteria run rampant, along with their smell. Dry mouth can also increase your risk for cavities because much of the dangerous bacteria in your mouth can also cause decay.

If you suffer from dry mouth caused by another condition, such as medication use, your complications could be magnified if you vape. Drinking water may help in the short term, but each time you vape, you start the drying cycle over again.

Bruxism

Some vaping solutions contain nicotine. Nicotine is used in vaping liquid for the same reason it's used in cigarettes — nicotine is a powerful stimulant. A primary concern with nicotine is that it doesn't have any restrictions. The ingredient can boost stimulation throughout the body, including your muscle system.

Stimulation of the jaw muscles can cause you to grind your teeth. In severe forms, this practice is known as bruxism. Teeth grinding may cause permanent damage to your teeth's enamel. In some cases, you may develop headaches or suffer from sleep disturbances if the grinding is excessive at night.

People respond to nicotine similarly to the way they do caffeine. As a result, the same amount of nicotine might produce different effects on different people. Don't be fooled if you're nicotine-sensitive. Even a small dosage of nicotine in the vaping liquid can serve as a powerful stimulant, which may only increase your risk for bruxism.

Maintaining a healthy and vibrant smile begins with you, so ensure you do your part. For concerns about vaping, or any other oral health concern, speak with a dentist. At Rabel Family Dental, we are happy to address any concerns you might have. Contact our office today to make an appointment so that we can help.

How Basic Dental Hygiene Combats Gum Disease

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 14 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

From childhood, most people are taught to brush their teeth. With every visit to the dentist, you get a new toothbrush and a renewed resolve to be better at daily tooth care. But why is daily brushing and flossing so important? You know you should do it, but how do these habits keep tooth decay and gum disease at bay?

If you're ever feeling too tired to brush or too busy to floss, here's the why behind the hygiene to help you stay motivated in daily dental care habits.

Brushing Removes Food and Tartar

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is the most foundational and important tooth care habit, and this habit has a number of benefits.

Brushing disrupts bacteria in your mouth. Have you ever notice your teeth feeling a bit fuzzy or slimy several hours or directly after eating a sweet treat? That fuzzy feeling is plaque growth, and the bacteria in plaque begin to cause inflammation in your soft gum tissue.

If you don’t brush consistently, you might notice your gums bleed easily. This is one of the early signs of gum disease and an indicator that you don’t brush often enough or well enough when you do brush your teeth.

Bacteria also cause decay. They feed on sugars that linger in your mouth and create acid as a byproduct. The acid wears away the enamel on your teeth, penetrating to the softer dentin underneath. Brushing away the bacteria helps to prevent them from settling on your teeth and remove the sugary residue that bacteria feed on.

Brushing away food particles is also important because your saliva has enzymes that break down foods in the mouth, especially carbohydrates. Even if you eat foods that aren't sweet, like a potato or a piece of toast, your saliva breaks down complex carbohydrates into simpler forms, providing sugar for bacteria to feed on.

Fluoride Protects Enamel

The simple act of brushing is beneficial, but fluoride toothpaste can have even more benefits. The little bit of fluoride in toothpaste is important for preventing tooth decay and protecting your enamel.

As you eat each day, the bacteria in your mouth constantly produce acid. That acid reacts with the minerals in your enamel, which causes the enamel to break down. These small areas of damage progress to cavities over time unless they are repaired. Fluoride is essential to making this repair possible.

Fluoride helps your teeth to remineralize areas where essential enamel has been lost. With the help of fluoride, the demineralized areas are built back up again. As an added bonus, the new enamel is even stronger than it was before it began to decay.

The small doses of fluoride from your toothpaste on a daily basis provide this protection for your teeth. Your dentist gives you a high dose at regular cleanings, but your daily exposure will have the most power when it comes to preventing cavities.

Flossing Prevents Cavities

Finally, flossing supplements brushing. Your toothbrush cannot reach all way between your teeth, but foods can still settle there as your chew. Flossing is just as important for preventing decay because it also disrupts the bacteria that linger between teeth and near the gum line.

People who brush consistently but do not floss can experience cavities in between two teeth, which require more than one filling to repair the damage.

For more information about why dental habits are so important for your oral health, contact us at Rabel Family Dental. We provide general dentistry services, including routine cleanings and cavity care. Contact us for more information on how you can keep your mouth free of cavities and gum disease.

Nutrition for Healthy Teeth and Gums

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 16 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

What you eat and even when you eat affects the health of both your teeth and your gums. While most people know that eating sweets increases the risk for cavities, not everyone is knowledgeable about other dietary choices that can affect dental health. Understand which foods play a role in dental health to better maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Get Plenty of Enamel-Building Nutrients

Foods high in phosphorus, including chicken, milk, eggs, fish, and other protein-rich foods, help rebuild your enamel. The same is true of foods that contain calcium, such as dairy products, leafy greens, and almonds. Vitamin A is also important for building enamel and is found in orange vegetables and fruits, tomatoes, leafy green vegetables, milk, and eggs.

Keep Gums Healthy With Vitamin C

Healthy gums help keep your teeth healthy. You need vitamin C both for making sure any wounds in your mouth heal quickly and for keeping the gums healthy. Bell peppers, citrus fruits, strawberries, broccoli, leafy green vegetables, tomatoes, and even winter squashes provide this essential nutrient.

Eat Acidic Foods Only During Meals

Acidic foods, such as citric fruits, coffee, pickles, alcohol, and tomatoes, can damage the enamel of your teeth if eaten alone. The acids from these foods are diluted when they're consumed as part of a meal, allowing you to eat these otherwise nutritious foods without risking damage to your dental health.

If you do eat acidic foods on their own, don't brush your teeth immediately after or you could do further damage.

Choose High-Fiber Foods Often

Foods that contain plenty of fiber, including many fruits and vegetables, help keep the teeth clean. They increase the production of saliva in the mouth. Saliva helps dilute acid in foods and keeps food particles from sticking to the teeth and providing food for the bacteria that cause cavities. Crunchy high-fiber produce like carrots, celery, and apples even help clean off the teeth after meals.

Opt for the Right Dairy Products

While all dairy products provide essential calcium, yogurt also contains beneficial bacteria called probiotics that help keep your gums healthy. Just opt for the plain variety without added sugars. Cheese is also a good choice for dental health, as it tends to make the mouth less acidic by increasing saliva formation in the mouth. Dairy products, in general, appear to be good for decreasing gum disease risk.

Avoid Snacking

Avoid snacking when possible. When you do snack, opt for healthier options, such as nuts, fruits, vegetables, yogurt, or cheeses instead of sugary foods. Snacking doesn't cause the same release of saliva as eating a meal. Eat starchy and sugary foods only as part of meals to limit the risk of dental problems.

Drink Plenty of Water

Water helps perform some of the same functions as saliva, including diluting acidic foods and washing food particles away from the teeth. It's particularly important to drink water after snacks or meals if you won't be brushing your teeth right away.

Consider Tea Instead of Coffee

Coffee is an acidic beverage, so it's not that great for your teeth. However, some research points to potential cavity-limiting benefits from drinking black tea without any added milk, sugar, or lemon. Consider making the switch to tea instead of coffee.

Chew Sugarless Gum

Some research shows that chewing sugarless gum for about 20 minutes after meals when you can't brush can help limit cavity risk. This benefit is most likely mainly due to the increase of saliva production caused by chewing gum.

While following a healthy diet is important for keeping your teeth and gums healthy, it isn't enough by itself. You also need to brush, floss, and make regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and check-ups . Contact Rabel Family Dental if you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment.

How a Low-Carb Diet May Affect Your Oral Health

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 27 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Low-carb diets are all the rave these days, and for a good reason. These diets help you lose weight, improve your cardiovascular health, and may even lower your risk for certain cancers. But low-carb diets may also help improve your oral health. Learn how Keto, Atkins, and other carb-restricting diets might affect your mouth, teeth, and gum health.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay occurs for various reasons, but regularly consuming a high amount of carbohydrates and sugary foods elevate your risk.

Every person has some level of plaque on their teeth, and that plaque contains disease-promoting bacteria. Carbohydrates give these bacteria the energy they need to flourish and encourages the production of dangerous acids that eat away at your teeth's enamel. Some low-carb diets restrict carbohydrate consumption to around 50 to 150 grams per day, which is considerably lower than the average person's diet.

When you reduce the amount of bread, cookies, pasta, sugar, and other high carbohydrate-containing foods you eat, you automatically cut out much of the fuel the bacteria in your mouth thrive on. As a result, you can inadvertently lower your risk for tooth decay.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is the result of an infection that targets the gum tissue. The condition can lead to chewing difficulties, bad breath and swollen and bleeding gums. In advanced stages, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. Poor oral hygiene practices, such as failing to floss, are often linked to gum disease.

A vitamin D deficiency may also increase your gum disease concerns. Low-carb plans encourage you to eliminate nutrient-empty processed foods from your diet and replace them with healthier vitamin D boosting food choices like salmon.

Carb restrictive diets also require you to incorporate more low-carb vegetables into your diet, like arugula and spinach, which are excellent sources of calcium. Calcium keeps your teeth strong and healthy.

If you have already been diagnosed with gum disease, understand that a low-carb diet is not a cure. You can continue with the meal plan, but you must visit a dental provider for an effective gum disease treatment option.

Ketosis Breath

One downside of a carb-restrictive diet is foul-smelling breath, known as ketosis breath. The human body first targets carbohydrates for energy. Only when your carbohydrate storage is depleted does the body turn to fat as energy fuel. When a person consumes few carbohydrates, their body almost immediately turns to fat for energy.

When you convert fat into energy, your body releases ketones, which produce a chemical or metallic like smell. Ketosis breath is typical with a low-carb diet and is proof that your efforts are working. If you don’t like Ketosis breath, drinking more water can help. Ketones are released through your breath and your urine. The more water you drink, the more of the ketones you can release through urination.

Also, make sure you aren't skipping any meals while following your diet. Each time you eat or drink, these processes fuel saliva production. When you don't eat, saliva production slows, and you may develop dry mouth. Dry mouth can also cause your breath to have a chemical-like odor.

However, dry mouth also slows the rate at which harmful bacteria are eliminated from your mouth, including those bacteria that attack your teeth's enamel. Eat regularly to protect your oral and overall health.

A low-carb diet may yield some unexpected benefits, but dieting is not a substitute for good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. You must stay committed to protecting your mouth, teeth, and gums. For questions about how the foods you eat might affect your oral health or any other dental related concerns, contact Rabel Family Dentistry for the help you need.

How Your Dentist Evaluates the Urgency of Wisdom Teeth Extraction

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The majority of smile-related developmental milestones appear to pass before individuals enter middle school. By the time you entered adolescence, you probably assumed you wouldn't have to deal with the discomfort of erupting teeth or the strange sensation of empty sockets again.

However, many individuals need to have one more such experience after losing their baby teeth — this time with the help of a qualified dentist rather than the tooth fairy. Wisdom teeth erupt in early adulthood, typically between the ages of 17 and 25, and often require removal.

While not everyone develops wisdom teeth and not everyone who has these additional molars needs them removed, failure to remove problem wisdom teeth can have serious consequences. In this blog, we explain how dentists determine if and when patients need wisdom teeth removal .

Current Symptoms

The primary reason for wisdom teeth extraction is the high likelihood of secondary issues that could develop if the teeth are allowed to erupt. Your dentist uses the symptoms you report during an appointment and his or her own observations to determine if you show the signs that these issues could arise in the future.

If you are experiencing headaches, jaw mobility changes, nerve pain, or extensive gum inflammation, extraction may be more pressing. Additionally, your dentist is more likely to recommend removal if he or she notices cavities in the emerging teeth, gum tissue pockets, cysts, or signs of infection such as fever.

Impact on Quality of Life

While your dentist may recommend removing your wisdom teeth before they begin to cause you pain, constant discomfort or any period of intense pain is a major red flag. Let your dentist know right away if you experience pain related to wisdom teeth eruption since this sensation typically points to the development of one of the other issues on this list.

Your dentist may recommend wisdom teeth extraction if the discomfort increases with chewing, brushing and flossing, or consuming hot and cold foods and beverages. The extraction is particularly urgent if your pain becomes distracting or overwhelming.

Your dentist may ask you to quantify your average and current levels of pain on a scale of 1 to 10, with 0 being no pain and 10 being pain severe enough to cause unconsciousness or necessitate hospitalization. This information may inform the decision to remove your wisdom teeth.

Medical History

While wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure that can often be performed in general dentistry offices without even visiting a surgical center, the extraction is still an invasive procedure.

Before recommending wisdom teeth removal, your dentist will evaluate your medical history. If you have an autoimmune disorder, certain conditions like diabetes, a history of oral infections, poor oral hygiene habits, or a prescription medication that could affect anesthesia or healing, you may need to postpone the procedure.

In these situations, your dentist may suggest removing your wisdom teeth one at a time rather than in a single sitting.

Prognosis

In addition to evaluating your current symptoms, your dentist uses your long-term prognosis to determine if wisdom teeth extraction is appropriate. This assessment occurs in part because many patients do not develop negative side effects until late in the eruption process after the jaw bone has begun to harden and strengthen the teeth roots.

To determine your prognosis, your dentist will take X-ray images that show the angle of the teeth relative to your other teeth.

Keep a line of communication open with your dentist about wisdom teeth extraction. Don't hesitate to schedule an appointment if you feel that your need for a consultation has become more urgent due to a change in symptoms or life situation, such as an upcoming extended trip abroad.

For general dental services, including wisdom teeth extraction, come to Rabel Family Dentistry.

3 Things To Watch Out For After Dental Implant Surgery

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 31 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Dental implants involve several procedures for single and multiple tooth replacement. Depending on your case, you may have a bone graft, implant placement, and tooth replacement performed.

After each procedure, follow your dentist's aftercare instructions to enjoy the best results from your implant treatment. Here are three ways to be good to your mouth after implant procedures.

1. Watch What Comes in Contact With Your Implant

Your dentist's office will go over the foods and beverages you should avoid after implant procedures, and they will send you home with a reminder sheet. Aftercare food and beverage recommendations are designed to minimize contact with ingredients that could delay implant-site healing.

Aftercare food and beverage instructions are also intended to minimize pain at the site of your bone graft or implant. Soft foods are gentle on gums involved in your bone graft or implant surgery.

Suggestions for nutritious soft foods include:

Yogurt
Smoothies
Soups
Hummus
Oatmeal
Mashed potatoes
Yams
Eggs

Nut butters made of almond or peanuts are good soft protein sources. Soft cheeses like cream cheese and Brie are also packed with protein.

Avoid chewing on ice and other too-hard foods after your procedures. Continue to avoid foods such as super-chewy caramels, tough meats, and hard candies after your brand-new tooth is in place.

2. Watch How You Use Your Mouth

Drinking through a straw is not recommended after implant surgery, even though a nice cool milkshake is fine for a treat. Just drink the shake from the side of the cup or with a spoon.

When you use your mouth to pull your drinks through a straw, suction is created. That suction could dislodge blood clots at your surgical site.

Smoking and using a nicotine vaporizer are also discouraged after any type of implant surgery for the same reason. The drawing in of smoke or vapor may hinder blood-clot formation and healing at the implant site. The ingredients in vaporizer liquid and tobacco may also reduce blood flow to the gums and implant site.

You may be advised not to clean the site right after surgery when you do your tooth-brushing. Vigorous brushing at the implant or graft site may cause tissue pain and tenderness. You may use an antibiotic rinse your dental office recommends to periodically disinfect the site before it can be brushed normally.

3. Watch for the Warning Signs of Trouble

All implant procedures involve slight to moderate discomfort at the site of the bone graft or titanium screw. Your dentist may prescribe painkillers or will recommend using an over-the-counter medicine like ibuprofen for mild pain.

Your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to limit your risk of infection at the graft or implant location. You can help keep the site free of infection by taking your full course of antibiotics as instructed.

If you have severe pain or swelling at the implant site, these symptoms could be warning signs of infection or other complications. Alert your dentist's office if your pain is unmanageable or if the implant site begins swelling or oozing pus.

Other signs to watch out for after implant procedures include:

Loosening of implants
Profuse bleeding of graft or implant site
Numbness in lower jaw, lips or tongue
Infected sinuses

Occasionally, an implant will not properly join with the jawbone. In these cases, your dentist may install a slightly larger implant screw. If your implant seems too loose or wobbly, let your dentist know right away so they can schedule a visit to correct the problem.

Dental implants are successful over 90 percent of the time. Dentists who offer implants are very comfortable and familiar with the procedure. If you follow your dentist's aftercare advice, and call the office when you have any questions or concerns, you help give your implant a great beginning.

Contact Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry to schedule your quality dental implant procedure in the Baton Rouge, Louisiana region. We offer single, bridge, and denture-style implants to restore handsome smiles and chewing ability in patients with missing or damaged teeth.

Guide to the Effect Beverages Have on Your Teeth

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 17 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

You know that certain foods, such as sugary sweets and hard nuts, can endanger your smile. You may plan your meals to minimize the effects that common foods have on your oral health. However, you may think less about the beverages you pair with your favorite foods.

What you drink can have as much, and sometimes even more, of an effect on your smile as what you eat. Unfortunately, many individuals drink a wide range of beverages, from their morning cup of coffee to their evening alcoholic indulgence, without thinking twice.

This blog examines four types of damage that common beverages can cause and offers recommendations to protect your smile.

Potential Negative Effects of Common Beverages

When you drink a beverage, the liquid washes over your teeth — and coats the surfaces in your mouth. As your smile experiences such long and thorough exposure to what you drink, beverages have a lot of opportunities to cause damage.

Common negative effects include the following.

1. Bad Breath

Many popular beverages have the side effect of reducing saliva production and causing oral dryness. A dry oral environment facilitates bacterial buildup. The first symptom of this issue you may notice is halitosis or bad breath, that doesn't go away even after brushing or using breath fresheners.

Beverages that dry out your mouth include alcohol, coffee, and tea.

2. Decay

The effects of harsh beverages may lead to a higher risk of tooth decay. For example, the bacterial buildup caused by oral dryness means that your teeth become more vulnerable to cavities.

However, acidic and sugary drinks come with an even higher likelihood of oral decay since acid and sugar stick to the surfaces of teeth and erode the enamel over time. Many beverages contain both acid and sugar, such as citrus juices and soda.

3. Demineralization

Mineralization is the natural process through which the body strengthens your teeth. When the acid from a food or beverage stays on the surface of your teeth, the body often can't provide enough minerals to the enamel.

Demineralization can result in white or dark spots that may develop into cavities. Demineralization can happen due to any acidic drinks, including flavored water, sparkling water, sports drinks, and soda. Even diet soda can increase demineralization since artificial sweeteners attach to the teeth just like refined sugar.

4. Stains

Many beverages have the potential to discolor your teeth. This risk increases when the beverage is particularly dark in color or sugary. You may notice stains if you drink a lot of coffee, cola, or red wine.

Strategies to Minimize Beverage-Related Damage

While many beverages can affect your smile, being proactive can protect your oral health. To reduce the effects of potentially damaging beverages:

Brush your teeth between beverages when possible.
Wait to brush your teeth after drinking a harsh beverage for at least 30 minutes to avoid exacerbating the weakening effects on your enamel.
Drink water while you consume other beverages to help rinse the liquid off your teeth.
Increase your overall water intake to wash away the majority of ingredients from other beverages.
Moderate your intake of beverages other than water.
Schedule routine cleanings and exams with your dentist at least once every six months.

If you drink a lot of alcohol, carbonated non-soda beverages, coffee, energy drinks, fruit juice, soda, sports drinks, or tea, then you should discuss other tactics you can use to safeguard your smile with your dentist during your next appointment.

Use these steps to ensure that you can enjoy your usual caffeine fix and favorite drink without worrying about the lasting damage that those beverages could have on your smile.

For expert dental care to treat, reduce, and prevent the damage caused by staples of your diet, trust the team at Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry.

3 Surprising Conditions That Connect to Your Oral Health

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 03 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

When most people think about going to the dentist, they do not think about it in terms of their overall health and well-being. Instead, many people think of their dental and oral health as something completely separate from the rest of their body. However, there are links between numerous health conditions and dental health.

Get to know some of the potentially surprising conditions that can be connected to your oral health. Then, you can be sure that you are taking the best care of your physical and dental health going forward.

1. Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that has become quite common among Americans. In fact, over 30 million people had diabetes in 2015. Despite how common diabetes is, many people do not know much about the effects of the condition, including those people that suffer from it.

One of the facts about diabetes that many people do not realize is that the disease can have a major impact on your oral health. Diabetes increases the risk of developing several oral health issues. One of the most common issues that people with diabetes face is gum disease.

While it is not certain whether one causes the other, it has been noted that gum disease rates are higher among people with diabetes. Additionally, gum disease can actually contribute to the worsening of diabetes symptoms and may even increase a person's blood sugar.

Tooth decay, mouth lesions, and other types of mouth infections are also quite common for people that suffer from diabetes. If you have diabetes, then you should head to the dentist as soon as possible if you notice any signs of gum disease, like sore or bleeding gums, or another oral health issues.

2. Eating Disorders

Another health issue that can have a major impact on oral health is an eating disorder. Specifically, anorexia and bulimia seem to have the biggest impact on oral health. Bulimia is an eating disorder that involves binging and purging. The purging has a particularly damaging effect on the teeth.

One of the most common ways to purge is to vomit. Vomit is highly acidic because of the stomach acid that comes up with the food. This acidity erodes the enamel of the teeth, leaving them vulnerable to further damage, decay, and infections.

Anorexia, on the other hand, has to do with extreme dietary restrictions. In this case, a person becomes extremely malnourished. This can compromise the oral health in a variety of ways. Without proper nutrients like vitamins and minerals, the bones and the teeth cannot get the nutrients they need. This can lead to tooth loss and further damage to the mouth.

3. Heart Disease

Heart disease is another condition that is commonly linked to dental problems. Gum disease and heart disease, in particular, are linked. When a person has moderate to advanced gum disease, they are a great deal more likely to develop heart disease than those people with healthy gums. Most experts believe this is because the bacteria in the mouth travel through the bloodstream to the heart.

When the bacteria reach the heart, they can cause inflammation. The inflammation can then lead to other problems and infections like clogged arteries and endocarditis.

Oftentimes, if you find out you have gum disease, it can be an early warning sign of heart health problems; and vice versa, if you have heart disease, then you may want to go to the dentist to be checked out for gum disease and other oral bacterial infections.

Knowing that these conditions are connected to oral health, you can schedule your next dentist appointment as soon as possible to take care of your oral health going forward.

Dental Concerns Seniors Should Be Aware Of

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 01 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

As you age, you may notice your body doesn't function as well as it used to. Your hearing and eyesight aren't quite as sharp, your reflexes are more sluggish, and it takes you a little longer to get around than it did when you were younger.

You may not realize it, but age also affects your teeth. When you gain more life experience, you'll find that your teeth need a little more care to stay healthy. Age causes a higher risk for a number of oral health problems.

Darkened Tooth Color

Most older people have darker teeth because of years of eating and drinking stain-causing foods and beverages. In addition, the dentin, the bone-like tissue in the center of tooth enamel, also becomes yellower over time. The outer enamel also thins, allowing the yellow dentin to show through.

Dry Mouth

Over 500 various medications cause dry mouth. Older people tend to take more of these medications, which treat conditions such as asthma, allergies, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, pain, depression, anxiety, and Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. If you are taking any medications that cause dry mouth, it's important to tell your dentist about them. He or she can recommend treatments.

Increased Cavities

Decreased saliva flow caused by dry mouth can lead to greater cavities. Saliva usually works by controlling the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause cavities. Treating dry mouth should also aid in preventing cavities.

Reduced Sense of Taste

With advanced age, most people experience a diminished sense of taste. Lack of taste can be enhanced by certain medications, diseases, or denture use.

Gum Disease

With greater levels of bacteria and plaque, older people are more susceptible to gum disease. This condition can be worsened by tobacco use, embedded food particles, dentures and bridges that don't fit properly, and poor diet. Certain diseases like diabetes, anemia, and cancer also aggravate gum disease. Symptoms include swollen gums, recessed gums, and greater bleeding.

Unfortunately, since most gum disease is painless, many people don't realize they suffer from the disease until there is considerable damage. When gum disease is advanced, it can actually destroy the gums, ligaments, and the jaw bone.

Root Decay

Receding gums cause the roots of the teeth to be exposed. The exposed roots are vulnerable to acidic foods, more so than the crown of the tooth (which is protected by tooth enamel).

Tooth Loss

Gum disease can also lead to tooth loss. Excessive cavities and root decay can cause teeth to be so damaged that they must be removed.

Uneven Jaw Bone

Many people who lose teeth because of gum disease also experience jaw bone loss. The remaining teeth tend to shift into the open spaces. The roots of teeth stimulate jawbone health so that when the dentist removes them, the bone can deteriorate in the open spaces.

Mouth Cancer

The majority of people who are diagnosed with mouth cancer are over 40. The average age of diagnosis is 62, so older people are typically at greater risk of developing cancer in the mouth. It's important to visit the dentist regularly to ensure early detection. Symptoms of oral cancer include red or white patches, open sores, and changes in the lips, the lining of the mouth, and tongue that lasts longer than two weeks.

Schedule an Appointment With Your Dentist

As a senior, you'll have to take a little more care of your teeth to prevent cavities, gum disease, and bone loss. One of the main causes of tooth decay is dry mouth. So it is imperative that seniors find solutions to increase saliva flow and reduce the production of cavity-causing bacteria.

Now that you know what dental problems are a greater problem for seniors, schedule an appointment with your dentist to ensure your teeth stay strong and healthy.

Importance Of Routine Dental Visits And What You Should Expect

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 14 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

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Going to the dentist is not usually something people look forward to exactly, but it is something that is vital if you care at all about your teeth. Each time you visit a dental clinic for a routine visit , you will receive two main services. Each service is vital for the health of your teeth and mouth. If you haven't visited a dentist recently, here is what to expect and the importance of it.

What Happens During a Routine Visit

If you avoid going to the dentist and have not had a routine checkup in a while, you might have questions about what occurs during a routine visit. You might also have fears about going. When people avoid the dentist, they often do this because they have dental fears.

The problem with this is that they then develop more fears from not going. They may fear that they have major oral problems that will require major dental services. They might also fear that the dentist will get on their case about skipping visits. No matter what fears you have, you should fight them and schedule a visit.

A routine dental visit is not scary or painful in most cases, and there are several things that will occur during your visit:

X-rays - Bitewings are the most common type of x-rays used, but dentists may also take other types of x-rays if you have not had a routine checkup within the last couple years.
Physical examination - A physical examination is what the dentist does to see the condition of your teeth. It helps locate problems and potential problems.
Teeth cleaning - The hygienist at the office typically cleans teeth during routine visits, and this removes plaque and tartar and helps make teeth look cleaner and nicer.
Floss teeth - Hygienists also floss teeth as part of the normal cleaning process. This removes plaque and debris found in between the teeth.
Fluoride treatment - One of the last steps involves a fluoride treatment. Fluoride strengthens teeth by strengthening the enamel on them.
Oral cancer screening - Most dentists also perform oral cancer screenings during checkup appointments. This involves looking under your tongue, your cheeks, and gums to locate signs of problems.

If the dentist suspects problems with your teeth or mouth, he or she might perform additional steps. At the end of the visit, the dentist will offer suggestions for any problems discovered during the visit.

The Importance of Routine Visits

Regular visits are important for several key reasons. The first is they help you discover if you have any oral issues. Knowing this is good because you cannot fix things if you do not know they are broken.

Secondly, a routine visit offers an in-depth cleaning of your teeth. This cleaning will reduce the chances of developing cavities, and it will help reduce your chances of developing gum disease. Without a professional cleaning, it's hard to keep plaque off teeth. Brushing and flossing are helpful steps to take at home, but they do not offer the same results as professional cleaning.

Finally, going to the dentist regularly helps reveal small tooth issues. Fixing small issues with teeth is less time-consuming and less costly. Letting problems grow on teeth causes more damage to teeth and will require more services to fix the problems.

Visiting a dentist is the best thing you can do to care for your teeth. If you have not had an examination and cleaning within the last six months, you should contact Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry. We offer all types of dental services including general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and sedation dentistry.

The Abundant Possibilities Dental Bonding Offers for Your Teeth

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

While dentists use a variety of different materials, techniques, products, and tools to complete dental procedures, bonding is the one material and procedure dentists use for many different reasons. Dental bonding is extremely durable and versatile, and there are several key things to know about bonding.

What Is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is a procedure that dentists use for both restorative and cosmetic dentistry purposes. Restorative dentistry involves procedures dentists use to fix teeth that have problems. Cosmetic dentistry involves improving the looks of teeth through various dental procedures. Bonding is so versatile that dentists use it often for both of these purposes.

The bonding procedure involves placing a material on a tooth. When applied, it bonds to the tooth, which means it adheres to the tooth. The material dentists use for bonding is made of a resin, or plastic, material. Dentists tint the bonding material before applying it to teeth, and this allows them to match it to any shade of tooth they are working with.

When a dentist applies the bonding material, he or she will typically begin by etching the tooth, simply because the material sticks better to the inner layer of a tooth rather than the outer layer. After applied, the dentist will sand or shave the material so it looks natural and will aim a light at it to dry it. Once it dries, it hardens and becomes part of the tooth.

What Do Dentists Use Bonding For?

Dentists use bonding to fix the following types of problems with teeth:

Chips – A dentist can fill in a chip with a bonding material. Once it dries, the tooth will look natural and complete.
Gaps – Dentists also place bonding on the two teeth next to a gap. When they do this, the teeth become wider making the gap disappear.
Cavities – When a dentist removes a cavity, he or she will insert composite material into the hole. The material makes the tooth whole again and improves the strength of the tooth.
Discoloration – If a person has discolored teeth caused by intrinsic stains, a dentist can whiten the teeth by applying a thin layer of the bonding material to the teeth. When dentists do this, they choose a shade of white the patient desires for their teeth.
Short teeth – In some cases, dentists add bonding to teeth to lengthen the teeth. Dentists do this when a person wants to fix their shortened teeth.
Gum disease – There are also times when dentists apply bonding to the parts of a person's teeth that touch the gums. This protects the gums and helps prevent sensitivity and progression of gum disease.

Bonding is something dentists use for all these purposes and more. In fact, dentists can use bonding to fix almost any problem you have with your teeth.

What Benefits Does Bonding Offer Over Other Options?

Dental bonding is not the only procedure dentists use to fix the problems listed above. There actually are many other procedures available; however, bonding is typically the most cost-effective way to fix most problems.

Additionally, the process of bonding a tooth is fast and only requires one visit to the dentist. Other procedures typically require two to three visits. Bonding is also typically less painful. Depending on the procedure you need, you might not even need anesthesia to have it completed.

If you need any type of dental work completed, your dentist might recommend bonding. If you would like to learn more about dental bonding and how it can help you obtain a nicer, healthier smile, contact Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry.

3 Great Reasons to Schedule a Smile Simulation

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Mon, 18 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The advent of modern imaging technologies has done more than make it easier to detect broken bones and developmental abnormalities in babies. In addition to offering the medical world the ability to detect problems before they begin treatment, state-of-the-art imaging equipment is also used in dental offices to create completely personalized smile simulations.

Here are three great reasons you should schedule a smile simulation.

Select the Best Procedures for Your Concerns

Modern dental offices offer everything from teeth whitening and dental bonding to implants and bridges, which can make it difficult to know what you should ask about during your normal checkup. Fortunately, smile simulation software is designed to give dentists the opportunity to show patients how different procedures would impact their smile.

After taking a picture of your current smile, your dentist will use powerful imaging software to create simulations of what your smile would look like after procedures like orthodontic care, crown lengthening, veneer placement, tooth contouring, and whitening.

Because you will be able to see the changes in person and compare them with previous images of your smile, simulations make it easy to choose the procedure or group of procedures that would best improve your look.

See the Transformation Before You Begin

While some dental procedures are completed in a few minutes during a routine appointment, others take months or years. For example, dental implants can take up to a year to install when healing time is factored in, and orthodontic care typically takes 18 months or more. Unfortunately, all of this waiting can be difficult for patients, which is another reason smile simulations are so valuable.

During smile simulations, patients have the chance to see the end goal, providing relief and hope for the future. Additionally, because some practices allow people to take home a printed copy of their future transformation, simulations make it easy for people to convince family members and friends about their decision to make changes.

This feature is especially helpful for individuals who are on tight budgets or who have friends or spouses who might be nervous about what dental changes might look like. By simply showing your friends and family members a picture of the end result, you can get everyone on board and excited about upcoming changes.

Create a Treatment Timeline

Because people can't always undergo or pay for numerous dental procedures at the same time, creating a treatment schedule is essential for your full smile makeover. With smile simulation technology, you and your dentist can talk about every stage of your dental makeover, allowing you the chance to make accommodations for things like budgetary constraints and time away from work.

For example, by exploring the results on a smile simulator, you can see what you will look like when you finish stage one of a procedure, so that you know whether or not attending work would be a possibility. Additionally, simulators make it easier to create treatment timelines that offer you superior results while abiding by a schedule.

During your smile simulation, your dentist can also recommend which procedures work well together, and show you how you might look throughout the stage. For example, if you are thinking about undergoing orthodontic care while preparing to receive a dental implant for a back missing molar, your doctor can show you how your smile will look during each stage of the process.

Are you wondering what you would look like with a brand new smile? Take the guessing part out of the process by scheduling a smile simulation with Rabel Family Dental . With a commitment to transparency and best dental practices, our team of dentists and hygienists can help you to enjoy a more beautiful, comfortable smile.

Need a New Dentist? 4 Modern Dental Technologies You Should Ask About

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Gone are the days of putty-filled dental trays and uncomfortable dental instruments — 2017 is all about patient comfort and efficiency. With more and more dentists using advanced technologies that solve age-old dental appointment complaints, your next checkup might be more pleasant than ever before. Here are four modern dental technologies you should ask about the next time you look for a new dentist.

1. Intraoral Cameras

If you are like most people, you probably sunk a little further into your dental chair the last time you went in for a routine cleaning. During cleanings, dentists and hygienists of yesteryear used tools called explorers, which are essentially curved metal objects with a fine point at the end.

These tools were used to detect cavities by whether or not the sharp end stuck into the soft spot of a tooth, which created an uncomfortable experience for patients. Fortunately, modern technology has an answer: the intraoral camera.

These powerful dental tools are fitted with a high-resolution camera on the end of a pen-like device, allowing dentists to sweep over the surface of your teeth without ever touching a surface. Capable of detecting dental decay that would normally be invisible to the naked eye; intraoral cameras help dentists to treat decay proactively without compromising your comfort.

Additionally, since the information from intraoral cameras can be fed onto a large monitor next to the patient's chair, it helps patients to understand the need for dental procedures and to enjoy the end results. Some intraoral cameras can even create 3D digital images of the teeth, eliminating putty molds and making it easy to track dental treatment progress.

2. Digital X-Rays

Forget about those uncomfortable dental films that took forever to process. Modern dental offices typically use digital X-ray equipment, which is faster, more accurate and safer for patients. In fact, digital X-rays can eliminate radiation exposure by more than 90 percent in some cases, helping patients to avoid unnecessary risks.

This benefit is especially helpful for patients who are at a higher risk for problems caused by radiation, including pregnant women and people who need a lot of imaging. Although standard protection equipment is still used to eliminate as much risk as possible, patients can rest easy in the dental chair knowing that they are being protected.

3. Cone Beam Imaging

Sometimes, a 2D image of your teeth doesn't give dentists enough information about the underlying cause of a problem, which is why scientists developed cone beam computed tomography for use in dental offices. These compact CT scanners are capable of taking axial, panoramic and cross sections of the teeth, gums and jaw tissues, streamlining diagnosis and treatment.

Commonly referred to as cone beam imaging, this special form of CT scanning helps dentists to diagnose everything from jaw tumors and impacted wisdom teeth to planning proper dental implant placement and reconstructive surgery. Since dentists can see the inner workings of your teeth from any angle, cone beam imaging also helps patients to avoid complications and recovery delays.

4. Smile Simulations

Wouldn't it be nice if you could see what a dentist had in mind for your smile long before you had any work done? Smile simulations allow dental professionals to do just that. Using 3D scanning from intraoral cameras and powerful dental software, dentists can show you exactly what they have in mind for your teeth before you spend the time and money to have the procedures done.

Smile simulation technology helps patients by showing them where they are in the treatment process. In addition to showing patients what their teeth will look like after orthodontic care, smile simulations can also be used to show what smiles will look like after receiving dental implants, tooth whitening, dental bonding and veneers.

Your Oral Health: A Clue to Inflammatory Bowel Disease

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 19 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Although Crohn's disease—an inflammatory disorder—usually affects the walls and lining of the colon and small intestine (small bowel), it can affect any area of the gastrointestinal tract, including the mouth. Some individuals with Crohn's disease experience symptoms that affect the oral cavity before gastrointestinal problems present. In fact, oral symptoms often appear first and can aid doctors in making the diagnosis.

Common Crohn's Disease Symptoms

The various symptoms of Crohn's disease may be mild, severe or anything in between, depending on the individual. These symptoms may affect areas of the body other than the gastrointestinal tract as well. Sometimes individuals have periods of remission when they experience no symptoms of the disease and lesions in the GI tract are healing. However, if inflammation persists, the disease can become more severe over time.

When the disease is active, common orofacial symptoms include swollen and cracked lips, gingival (gum) swelling, and mucosal tags as well as nodules or papules on the face that can form a rash. Oral ulcers and the swelling or cobblestoned appearance of the soft tissue that lines the inside of the cheeks can also occur.

Other symptoms of Crohn's disease include nausea, frequent diarrhea, stomach cramps or abdominal pain, malnutrition, unexplained weight loss and bloody stool. You may also suffer anemia if the disease causes you to become deficient in iron or vitamin B-12 as nutrient deficiencies can affect both your general and oral health.

Risk Factors

If your dentist notes oral symptoms during a dental examination that may be signs of Crohn's disease, he or she may discuss whether you are at risk for the disease. Some of the risk factors include:

Smoking
Excess weight
Diet high in sugar and saturated fat
Family history of Crohn's or other inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD)—particularly if a parent or sibling has form of IBD
Certain medications

While regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications is not a risk factor alone, these pain-relieving drugs can lead to inflammation of the bowel, which makes Crohn's disease worse. In addition to these and other factors that put you at higher risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease is an underlying medical condition that alone puts you at risk for gum disease.

If you have Crohn's disease, your body's lowered immunity makes it easier for inflammation of the gums to set in. Untreated gingivitis can then advance to periodontitis as the infection spreads below the gum line. Periodontitis itself is an inflammatory disease that breaks down the gum tissue and bone that hold your teeth in place.

Potential Oral Complications

The effect of Crohn's symptoms can lead to a number of oral complications if left untreated. Depleted levels of certain vitamins and minerals can affect mouth tissue even before causing symptoms elsewhere in the body.

Consequently, damage to the GI tract or adverse side effects of medications to treat Crohn's disease sometimes makes it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients such iron, calcium, zinc, B vitamins and vitamins A, C and D—all of which are nutrients that contribute to good oral health.

Oral side effects of medications you take to treat the symptoms of Crohn's disease can cause dry mouth, which increases the risk of cavities, enlarged gums, abnormal bleeding, mouth sores and oral yeast infections.

The medications that can cause these and other side effects may include corticosteroids and immunosuppressant drugs. Both of these drug types can make you more prone to infection, and when the balance of oral bacteria is disrupted it can be hard to control fungal growth, which can lead to fungal infections.

For more information on how Crohn's disease can affect your oral health, the dental professionals at Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry are happy to assist with these and other dental concerns you may have.

4 Dangers of Gum Disease and How You Can Reduce Your Risk

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 19 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

With approximately half of Americans adults diagnosed with gum disease, this oral health condition is a growing epidemic in the U.S. Early symptoms of gum disease include red and inflamed gums, bad breath and bleeding when you brush your teeth. If gum disease is caught early, it is easy to treat. However, if this disease progresses into the late stages, it can negatively affect your health.

Here are four dangers of gum disease.

Tooth Loss

If you don't seek treatment for gum disease promptly, you are in danger of losing one or more of your teeth. In the advanced stages of gum disease, the tissue and bone that support your teeth can deteriorate. When your teeth no longer have any support, they may become loose and fall out.

Missing teeth do not just affect your confidence. They also make it more difficult to speak properly and chew food. In addition, if you don't have teeth, the skin around your mouth can sag, giving you an older appearance.

Heart Disease

Believe it or not, gum disease can increase your risk of heart disease. The bacteria in your gum line can eventually make its way into your bloodstream and attach to your heart blood vessels. Unfortunately, this can lead to blood clots that cause heart attacks.

If you already have a heart condition, you are in danger of developing an infection of the heart's inner lining. The heart valves can get severely damaged by this infection.

Stroke

Stroke is another health condition you have to worry about if you have untreated gum disease. The bacteria in your gums can thicken your carotid arteries, preventing adequate blood flow to your brain. If your brain is not getting enough blood, you can suffer a stroke.

Strokes can lead to several devastating effects, such as memory loss, vision problems, speech problems and paralysis.

Premature Birth

If you have gum disease and are pregnant, you risk giving birth to your baby prematurely. The bacteria in your mouth may tell your immune system to tell your uterus to deliver the baby early. Babies who are born prematurely are more likely to be underweight and to have health problems.

Tips for Reducing Your Risk of Gum Disease

Gum disease can lead to some pretty serious health problems, so you should avoid it in the first place. Here are a few tips for reducing your risk of gum disease:

Include Vitamin C in your diet. Vitamin C can boost your immune system and reduce your risk of infections, including ones in your gums. Good sources of vitamin C include oranges, strawberries and kiwis.
Clean your tongue. Even if you brush and floss your teeth every day, you still might not get rid of all the germs in your mouth. Bacteria can accumulate on your tongue throughout the day and spread to your gums. That is why you should use a toothbrush to remove food particles and plaque from your tongue every day.
Do not ignore signs of gum disease. If you notice that your gums are redder and more inflamed than usual, make an appointment to see your dentist . He or she can recommend the appropriate treatment. The sooner gum disease is detected, the easier it is to treat.
Stop smoking. When you smoke tobacco, you can weaken your immune system and make it more difficult for your body to fight infections. If you quit this habit, you can keep your gums in good shape and improve your overall health.

If you want to learn more about gum disease, contact Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry. We’ll be happy to help you understand ideal dental care practices.

Why You Should Floss and Stop Using These Common Excuses

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Mon, 16 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

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Most people know the importance of brushing their teeth, but an equally important daily habit is flossing, which is often neglected. In fact, about a third of Americans report never flossing their teeth, and almost another third doesn't floss daily, even if they brush.

Flossing helps to remove the food particles and bacteria between your teeth that cannot be removed by regular brushing. Many cavities are caused because people do not floss regularly.

Understanding why these common excuses shouldn't keep you from flossing will help you make flossing a daily priority and motivate you to take better care of your teeth.

"My Teeth Have Enough Space That Nothing Gets Stuck"

Many people think that they only need to floss if their teeth of close together. However, flossing doesn't just remove food that can get caught between your teeth, it also removes bacteria that gathers around the gums in the gap between your teeth. Eventually, your gums can become inflamed or irritated because the bacteria will begin to attack the soft tissue.

Your toothbrush is not precise enough to guarantee the gaps between your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned, which is why flossing is so important.

"My Teeth Are Too Close Together to Floss"

Similarly, some people also think they don't need to floss because their teeth are too close together. It can be more challenging to get floss between your teeth when they are crowded, but it's still essential. If you can't use traditional floss to fit between your teeth, you can get a special string that is thinner and slicker than woven floss.

"My Teeth Bleed When I Floss and Flossing Hurts"

Flossing can be uncomfortable, but when it causes a lot of pain and bleeding, this is a sign that your gums are already getting infected by bacteria. Bleeding and pain when brushing and flossing are the earliest signs of gum disease and you can still recover before it progresses to permanent damage.

Continuing to floss regularly is the best solution when your gums bleed during flossing.

"I'm Too Busy to Floss"

If your morning routine is so busy that even brushing your teeth before you head out the door is a challenge, you might forget to floss for several days in a row. However, flossing does not always have to be done when you brush. It is better to floss at another time than to not floss at all.

Keep a packet of floss or floss picks in your bag or purse so that you can floss when you have a lunch break when you're stuck in traffic or even when you're using the bathroom at work. If you rinse your mouth with water and floss after eating you'll keep your teeth free of food particles.

"My Teeth Are Too Difficult to Floss"

Finally, some people do not floss because it is difficult. Flossing requires dexterity and finesse, so children, elderly individuals or people with disabilities can struggle with flossing. If you have trouble flossing, your dentist can recommend alternatives that can help you get your teeth clean, including:

Water flossers . Instead of string, these flossers spray water between your teeth.
Floss picks . Floss picks are easier to use, especially for children who might have trouble holding a string tight.
Small brushes. These brushes are sometimes called soft picks and are small enough to fit between your teeth.

Combined with mouthwash and brushing, your teeth should be healthy no matter which flosser you use. Your dentist can offer you many flossing alternatives should a health condition or challenge keep you from using traditional cleaning methods. For more information, contact us at Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry.

Your Oral Health: A Clue to Inflammatory Bowel Disease

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Common Crohn's Disease Symptoms

Risk Factors

If your dentist notes oral symptoms during a dental examination that may be signs of Crohn's disease, he or she may discuss whether you are at risk for the disease. Some of the risk factors include:

• Smoking
• Excess weight
• Diet high in sugar and saturated fat
• Family history of Crohn's or other inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD)—particularly if a parent or sibling has form of IBD
• Certain medications

Potential Oral Complications

Caring For Your Dental Implants

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Missing or broken teeth don't have to ruin your smile. Dental implants provide a permanent fix for more than 3 million patients in the US, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID). If you're about to join the 500,000 plus people who are adding to this figure every year, understanding how to care for your implants is absolutely essential. What do you need to know about implant care? Take a look at the ins and outs of keeping your dental implants (and your whole mouth) healthy.

Getting Adjustments

One of the major advantages of dental implants is that they're permanent. Keep in mind that doesn't mean they last for a lifetime. Think of the word "permanent" as meaning long-term and non-removable, instead of forever, when it comes to the top (crown) portion of the implants. Some patients are able to keep their "new teeth" for a decade or more. Even though they're made to last and stand up to normal daily use, you may need to get adjustments – especially in the time right after getting the devices placed. The dentist may need to smooth down the top (crown) if you're having bite issues. Over time, the dentist will continue to check your implants to make sure that they are in place, intact and have no breaks, cracks or other issues.

Brushing and Flossing

Dental implants aren't real teeth. They may look like them, but they're made from a titanium screw (replacing the root) and a porcelain, ceramic, acrylic or metal alloy crown. Unlike natural teeth, these materials aren't vulnerable to the ravages of plaque and decay. In other words, you won't get a cavity in your porcelain crown. But that doesn't mean you're done with at-home dental care. If you only have one or a few implants, you'll still need to care for all of your pother teeth. Beyond that, you still need to brush and floss the implanted tooth. Why?

Even though the crown part of your implant won't decay, you still need to get the gunk and grime off of it. This helps it to retain its color and stay in good shape. You'll also need to continue flossing. Healthy gums are a major part of a healthy mouth. Whether you have real or fake teeth, flossing helps to keep your gums in the best shape possible.

Eating and Drinking

After an initial adjustment period you should be able to eat anything you would have before having implants. There are rarely dietary restrictions with these devices, and they stand up well to most types of foods. If you have concerns about cracking, chopping or in some other way injuring the crown part of your implant, talk to your dentist. The pro may suggest that you steer clear of chewy, sticky or hard foods such as hard candy or ice chips.

There are also rarely drink restrictions for patients who have implants. That said, if you're worried about possible staining, you may want to stay away from highly pigmented beverages. These include dark teas, red wine and sodas.

Regular Check-Ups

With regular at-home brushing and flossing, it's not likely that you'll need to do anything extra to care for your implants. Of course, that doesn't mean you can skip the dentist. Just because your new teeth aren't "real" doesn't mean you're done with preventative dental care. The rest of your teeth and your gums still need the professional-level cleaning that an office visit provides. The dentist can also examine your implants, making sure that there are no problems or issues with them.

Only an expert can provide implant services. If you're considering an implant or need ongoing professional care, call Premier Dentures and Implants at 225-774-3368 for more information.

5 Things to Teach Your Kids About Dental Care

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 26 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Little children have a natural curiosity about the world around them, and that extends to their own bodies. Dental health can be interesting to kids if it's approached in the right way. Start by embracing your own dental care habits and share that enthusiasm with your children.

Learn 5 things you can do to help your children get started on the right path with their dental care.

Taking Great Care of One's Teeth Can Be Fun

Put the fun in fundamental dental care habits. It's okay for something as serious as dental health to also be fun, and children will be more willing to embrace it if they enjoy taking care of their teeth. Start with things like letting kids pick out their own toothbrush and toothpaste. Having a character they love on a toothbrush or toothpaste container can make a difference.

The fun continues with the actual dental care, too. For example, put on a "toothbrushing soundtrack" each night where you and your kids listen to songs related to smiles. Have daily traditions like story time right after your children brush their teeth. You may also give out a sticker each night if your children do all their dental care tasks without being asked.

Tough Love Isn't for Teeth

Although you want kids to thoroughly brush their teeth, let them know it's important to be gentle with one's teeth and gums. If you brush your teeth too aggressively, it can even lead to the formation of ulcers or sores. Some children may get overly enthusiastic or try to finish brushing their teeth in a hurry by brushing too hard. Always stop them and talk about gentle care instead.

Technique and Time Matters

Teaching children the right way to brush can help them develop proper dental habits to carry through life. According to the American Dental Association, adults and children alike should brush their teeth twice per day. Children should use a soft-bristled brush and brush for approximately two minutes each time. Once per day they should also floss between teeth and use a kid-safe mouthwash.

The best way to teach proper dental care is simply to make it a series of daily habits that are done as pleasantly as possible. Your children should be brushing their teeth twice each day, and it's easier for most family routines for this to take place in the morning and before bedtime. Set aside plenty of time so that dental habits don't feel rushed or frustrating for kids.

Going to the Dentist Regularly is Essential

Take your children for regular dental check-ups at least once every six months to prevent cavities. These regular appointments also teach your kids that dentists are their ally in obtaining optimal dental health, and children are more likely to continue seeing dentists regularly as adults if it's simply a part of their life as they grow up.

Keep Learning and Improving

As an adult, you may not have it all figured out when it comes to dental care. It's okay to admit when you don't know the best way to do something. Ask for help from your dentist or rely on trusted, science-based sources. In an age where anyone can find harmful misconceptions about dental care online, it's important for children to learn where they can get the information they trust.

Taking optimal care of one's teeth is work-in-progress at any age. Continue to improve and be positive with how you talk about dental care with your children. Rabel Family Dentistry strives to provide optimal dental care for all members of the family, and we are happy to partner with parents in helping little ones develop healthy habits.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Mon, 20 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

When you have lost a tooth, replacing it with a dental implant is a viable option. Although there are several restorations available, you should seriously weigh the advantages of getting an implant inserted.

Protects Jawbone

The thing many people fail to realize is that their teeth play an integral role in the health of the jawbone. The tissue requires stimulation, so when a tooth is lost so is the stimulation. The jawbone can quickly deteriorate. However, by getting a dental implant to take the place of the tooth root, you can protect your jawbone health.

Offers Long-Term Support

Most restorations have a fairly good life span. Most of them can last between 10 and 20 years. Dental implants have a long history of success. As long as you maintain your oral health, you should not be surprised to see your implant lasting the rest of your life.

Protects Other Teeth

Once a tooth is lost, you might think the bad part is over. However, if that gap is not filled in promptly, then the other teeth in your mouth can begin to move around. An implant keeps your other teeth where they are, so you do not have to worry about getting other procedures done.

Dental implants are offered at a number of dental offices. Call Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry to make an appointment today.

Tips on Teaching Kids About Dental Health

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Kids retain many of the habits they perform in childhood well into adulthood. That means if you want your children to have good oral health throughout their lives, you should instill those habits into them early on.

Start Early

You should help your kids brush their teeth as soon as teeth start coming in. Before that, there are methods for cleaning the gum tissue to prevent bacterial buildup. Starting at four years of age, you should start flossing for your kids. Do this for them until they are capable of doing it on their own.

See a Dentist Soon

Children should have their first dental appointment before they reach their first birthday. This helps for dental health, and it also helps remove the stigma children often have about going to the dentist’s office. If you familiarize your kids with the dentist early, then they will be less likely to be afraid later in life.

Make Brushing Fun

Brushing needs to be done every day, and an easy way to make your kids abide by this routine is to make the experience fun. One thing to do is to play your kids’ favorite songs. You should also look into toothpaste with flavoring.

You do not want your kids to end up with too many oral health problems. Set them on the right path, and learn more by contacting Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry.

When to Consider Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 28 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Dental work usually isn’t something most people look forward to. For some, going to the dentist or oral surgeon is a dreaded activity. Of course, caring for your teeth is essential for overall health, and being aware of your wisdom teeth is no different. Most, but not all, people need to get these teeth pulled. Here are some situations that may help you decide whether this is best for you.

No Room in Your Mouth for Extra Teeth

Wisdom teeth usually break through in a person's late teens or early 20s. By this time, all other permanent teeth are in place, meaning space inside the mouth is limited. Allowing wisdom teeth to come through in these cases could be painful and detrimental. If there’s no room, it’s time to remove the wisdom teeth.

Your Teeth Are Straight

If you’ve had braces to correct crooked teeth, you surely want to keep them looking great. However, impacted wisdom teeth can undo the work your braces did for you. In this case, it’s best to not let them come in.

You Have Sinus Problems

If you are prone to sinus issues, wisdom teeth have the potential to make things worse. Don’t run the risk of complicating these problems,

To learn more about wisdom teeth removal, contact Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry. Learn how to make the best decision for your health.

URGENT INFORMATION

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 00:00:00 GMT

URGENT INFORMATION

We have had several patients from Baton Rouge and the surrounding areas who lost their dentures, partial dentures and other related denture appliances as well as dental injuries/problems from the flood. We have an on-site lab and our office was not affected by the flood. We are available to make FEMA dentures, FEMA partial dentures and other flood related dental treatment for those who lost their dentures or have dental problems related to the Baton Rouge area flooding. Please contact FEMA or visit their website for details concerning covered dental work through FEMA and FEMA dentures.

Reasons You Should Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Very few people are lucky enough to have their wisdom teeth erupt without any complications arising. It is always better to get them removed early on before you have to deal with the consequences of them growing in.

Five Advantages

Wisdom teeth are now a vestigial part of the human body. They may have once served a function, but that is no longer the case. If they erupt, they cause problems. Here are some reasons why you should get rid of them as soon as possible:

Wisdom teeth are capable of overcrowding nearby teeth.
Wisdom teeth erupting increases your chances of an inflammation developing within the gum tissue.
Wisdom teeth are difficult to clean once erupted, further increasing the odds of oral health problems.
Wisdom teeth eruption can cause other oral health issues including tooth loss and weakening of the jawbone.
Recovery often goes faster if wisdom teeth are removed when the patient is younger.

At the end of the day, getting these unnecessary teeth removed will provide you with peace of mind. You do not have to worry about how one day these extra four teeth are going to cause you issues later on.

Talk to you dentist about wisdom teeth removal and if it is a good choice for you. To schedule an appointment with an excellent dentist, contact Rabel Family Dental today.