Nurture Your Dental Health

5 Reasons Dental Implants Are the Best Long-Term Solution for Missing Teeth

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:16:07 GMT

Missing teeth can impact more than just your smile—they can affect your confidence, oral health, and overall quality of life. Fortunately, dental implants have emerged as one of the most advanced and reliable solutions for tooth replacement. Designed to mimic the look, feel, and function of natural teeth, implants offer long-term durability while supporting jawbone health and restoring full oral functionality. From improved aesthetics to enhanced comfort and stability, dental implants provide a comprehensive solution for individuals seeking a lasting and natural-looking restoration.

1. A Permanent and Durable Solution

Dental implants stand out as a permanent solution because they are designed to last a lifetime with proper care. Unlike dentures or bridges, which may need replacement or adjustment over time, implants offer unmatched longevity. This durability is primarily due to the biocompatible materials used, which integrate seamlessly into the jawbone. Additionally, dental implants are resistant to decay, a common issue faced by those with natural teeth or other dental restorations. This resilience makes them an attractive option for both young and older patients who seek a one-time solution for missing teeth.

The materials used in dental implants, typically titanium or zirconia, are highly biocompatible, meaning they are well-accepted by the body. This biocompatibility is crucial as it minimizes the risk of rejection and infection, ensuring that the implants are safe and effective. The ability of these materials to fuse with the bone makes the implant stable and durable. This fusion, known as osseointegration, sets implants apart as it mimics the behavior of natural tooth roots. This quality not only contributes to the implant's longevity but also supports the surrounding bone and tissue, promoting oral health.

Furthermore, dental implants provide the robustness needed for consuming a varied diet, thus contributing to overall health. They allow individuals to bite and chew with almost the same efficiency as their natural teeth. Unlike dentures, which might slip or cause discomfort, implants remain securely in place, providing a stronger bite force for a diverse range of foods. This can lead to better nutrition, especially in older adults, who might face challenges with traditional dentures. Overall, the permanence and strength of dental implants make them a preferred solution worldwide for addressing tooth loss effectively.

2. Natural Look and Feel

Dental implants excel in replicating the natural look and feel of real teeth, which is a significant advantage for many patients. The customization involved in the implant process ensures seamless integration with existing teeth. Each implant is tailored to match the size, shape, and color of natural teeth, making them nearly indistinguishable from the rest. This aesthetic appeal is important for personal confidence and social interactions, as individuals can smile without hesitation. The natural appearance of dental implants helps maintain the integrity of the smile, reinforcing their superiority as a restorative choice.

One of the most remarkable aspects of dental implants is their ability to preserve facial structure through the bone fusion process. Unlike other options, implants bond with the jawbone, maintaining the facial structure's integrity and preventing the sunken appearance that can occur with dentures. This stability helps keep the facial contours intact, effectively combating signs of premature aging. It's worth noting that nearly 7% of people aged 20 and older worldwide experience complete tooth loss, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), making the preservation of facial structure a pertinent issue for many.

3. Support for Jawbone Health

Supporting jawbone health is one of the most underrated yet significant benefits of dental implants. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate over time, leading to further oral health complications. Dental implants act as artificial roots, stimulating the jawbone much like natural tooth roots would. This stimulation is crucial for preventing the bone loss that typically occurs after tooth extraction. By providing this natural stimulation, implants help maintain the structural integrity of the jaw, preventing future dental problems.

Moreover, encouraging natural bone growth is another critical function of dental implants. The precise placement in the jaw allows the implants to invite healthy bone growth around them. This process is akin to how natural teeth would interact with the jawbone, thus promoting long-term oral health. Those who experience complete tooth loss, as reported by WHO, could highly benefit from such a regenerative aspect. By preventing further bone degradation, dental implants play a crucial role in maintaining the health and vitality of the oral cavity, supporting the infrastructure for a lifetime of dental wellness.

4. Enhanced Oral Functionality

Dental implants significantly enhance oral functionality by restoring the bite force and chewing efficiency lost with missing teeth. Unlike dentures that may slip or bridges that may place additional stress on adjacent teeth, implants are anchored securely into the jaw. This allows for natural biting and chewing motions, improving digestion and overall health by permitting a full range of dietary choices. The ability to enjoy various foods without limitations greatly contributes to a better quality of life. Once placed, implants restore the foundational aspects of eating, speaking, and smiling, solidifying their role as the optimal solution for tooth loss.

Another advantage of dental implants is the stability they provide to adjacent teeth. When a tooth is missing, the teeth on either side may shift into the gap, causing further misalignment and potential bite issues. By filling the gap, implants prevent these shifts and help maintain proper alignment within the dental arch. This reduces the likelihood of additional dental complications related to misalignment. The stability offered by implants ensures that the overall integrity of the dental structure is preserved, avoiding the cascade of problems that often follow tooth loss.

5. Psychological and Social Benefits

The psychological and social benefits of dental implants cannot be overstated, as they significantly enhance one's self-esteem and confidence. A full smile is often equated with health and attractiveness, influencing how an individual feels about themselves and interacts with the world. The seamless, natural look of dental implants allows individuals to smile freely without the fear of judgment or embarrassment. This boost in self-esteem can lead to greater social interactions and a more fulfilling personal and professional life. By transforming the smile, dental implants positively impact the individual's overall psychological well-being.

Implants also play a role in reducing social anxiety that can stem from missing teeth or wearing dentures. Those with missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures may avoid social gatherings for fear of being stigmatized or facing embarrassing situations. Dental implants remove the worry associated with loose or conspicuous dental restorations, enabling individuals to engage more confidently in social settings. This can lead to more robust and meaningful relationships, underscoring the importance of functional and aesthetically pleasing dental solutions.

Dental implants offer a powerful combination of durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, making them one of the most effective solutions for tooth replacement. From preserving jawbone health to restoring confidence and improving daily comfort, their benefits extend far beyond a complete smile. Choosing dental implants is an investment in both your oral health and overall well-being. Don’t wait to reclaim your confidence—schedule a consultation with Nurture Dental Health today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile. With expert care and proper maintenance, your new smile can last a lifetime and continue to enhance your quality of life every day.

How Much Does Oral Surgery Cost?

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 18:10:39 GMT

Oral surgery constitutes a crucial segment of dental and health care. It primarily pertains to the surgical intervention on the mouth, jaws, and associated facial structures. Numerous factors dictate the financial implications of oral surgeries, reflecting their complexity and necessity.

The scope of oral surgery ranges from minor interventions like tooth extraction to significant procedures involving the jaw and facial structure. Understanding the variety of treatments available and their associated costs is vital for individuals considering these procedures. Cost variations occur due to procedure types, geographic location, and the surgeon's experience, among other factors.

Despite dental care being a vital part of overall health, financial constraints remain a significant barrier. According to ADA.org, 13% of the population reported cost barriers to dental care, compared to 4-5% for other healthcare services. Therefore, understanding the full spectrum of costs associated with oral surgery is essential for patients to plan and prepare accordingly.

Understanding Oral Surgery

Oral surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures performed on the teeth, gums, and jaw. These can be corrective, restorative, or preventive, each serving distinct purposes within dental health. Procedures include extracting impacted teeth, dental implants, and corrective jaw surgeries, each requiring specialized care.

The extent and complexity of the surgery often determine which type of oral surgery is appropriate. Minor surgeries might include simple extractions, while complex cases involve jaw realignment or implant placements. Patients must discuss with their oral health provider the most appropriate solution for their individual needs.

The various types of oral surgery cater to different medical and dental conditions, often impacting cost. For instance, procedures like dental implants and orthodontic surgeries typically require extensive planning and execution, contributing to their higher costs. Understanding each type's nuances helps in comprehending the financial requirements involved.

Impacting Reasons for Oral Surgery

Several factors may necessitate oral surgery, ranging from aesthetic improvements to essential medical interventions. Common reasons include impacted wisdom teeth, jaw misalignment, or facial injuries necessitating surgical correction. Dental implants are employed when tooth replacements are needed, while gum surgeries address periodontal diseases.

Other motivations for oral surgery should include the removal of problematic cysts or tumors in the oral cavity. In some scenarios, patients seek oral surgery for corrective procedures, such as aligning the jaw for functional benefits. Each reason influences the choice of procedure, impacting the overall cost implications.

Despite the costs, the necessity for oral surgery often overrides financial concerns due to potential health impacts. Delaying these procedures can result in complications, emphasizing the importance of timely surgical intervention. Thus, cost understanding and management become paramount for patients needing these surgeries.

Preparing for Oral Surgery

Preparing for oral surgery involves several steps to ensure a safe and successful procedure. Patients are usually advised to avoid certain medications or foods before surgery and may need to arrange for transportation post-procedure due to anesthesia effects. Detailed discussions with the surgeon about the procedure and recovery expectations are crucial.

A comprehensive pre-surgery assessment is typically conducted to understand the patient's health status and any potential complications. This evaluation aids in tailoring the surgical plan to the individual's needs, ensuring safety and efficacy. Such preparations are essential components that can influence the overall cost by impacting the procedure's complexity.

Understanding pre-surgical expectations helps reduce anxiety and improve outcomes for patients. Being informed about the preparation requirements can also assist in financial planning, as some preparatory assessments may incur additional costs. Practitioners strive to provide detailed guidance on these aspects to ensure clarity and preparedness for patients.

Performing: The Role of Oral Surgeons

Oral surgeons are specialists trained to perform intricate procedures involving the mouth and jaw. Their expertise allows them to handle complex cases, blending medical and dental knowledge uniquely. The surgeon's role extends from initial consultations through surgery to post-operative care, ensuring targeted and effective treatment.

Their extensive training and experience are reflected in the cost of services, with board-certified specialists often commanding higher fees due to their expertise. The complexity of cases managed by oral surgeons necessitates a premium on their services, considering the precision and care required in administering surgical procedures.

Surgeons provide critical information about the procedures, addressing patient concerns and ensuring informed decisions are made. Their role involves not only performing surgeries but also facilitating understanding of the necessity and implications of surgical interventions. Therefore, consultations with oral surgeons become an integral part of the surgical process.

Healing and the Post-Surgery Recovery Process

Recovery from oral surgery varies based on the procedure's complexity and the individual's health. Post-operative care includes managing pain, maintaining oral hygiene, and following dietary restrictions as advised by the surgeon. Proper recovery protocols help minimize complications and promote healing.

The duration of recovery can influence the overall cost due to factors such as follow-up visits and care essentials. Many surgeons offer detailed post-surgery care plans, which can include medications, dietary guidance, and scheduled check-ups. Patients are encouraged to adhere strictly to these protocols to ensure effective healing.

Cost considerations extend to the recovery phase, where unanticipated complications might incur additional expenses. Recognizing the importance of recovery planning permits better financial preparedness, offering insight into potential unforeseen costs. A transparent understanding of these processes is vital for managing surgery-related expenses comprehensively.

Influencing Oral Surgery Costs

The specific type of oral surgery significantly impacts the cost, with each procedure requiring different levels of expertise and resources. Simple procedures like extractions can be less costly than complex interventions such as jaw realignments or implants. Understanding this variance helps patients plan and budget accordingly.

Tooth extractions, particularly non-surgical, are typically less expensive and frequently completed in-office, reducing cost implications. Complex surgeries often involve hospital fees, anesthesia, and extensive post-operative care, cumulatively increasing the financial burden. The procedure type often dictates resource allocation, impacting overall costs.

In seeking oral surgical interventions, patients must consider both the immediate cost of the procedure and the potential for long-term savings or benefits. For instance, investing in dental implants, despite high initial costs, can provide lasting solutions compared to temporary fixes. Thus, a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis is essential for making informed decisions.

Taking Your Geographical Location Into Account

The location where oral surgery is performed plays a crucial role in determining cost variations. Urban areas, particularly those with thriving medical hubs, often present higher costs due to elevated living expenses and operational costs. Conversely, rural locations might offer reduced fees but with potentially limited access to specialized care.

The cost of living in an area reflects on surgical pricing, encompassing facility operations and personnel wages. Local demand and the presence of established healthcare facilities also influence pricing strategies, creating disparities across different regions. Patients might consider these variations when exploring surgical options beyond their immediate locality.

Considering geographic cost influences offers potential savings, with options like medical tourism gaining popularity for affordable care in certain regions. However, such choices require thorough research and understanding of the implications. Access to follow-up care and post-operative support should weigh heavily in the decision-making process.

Oral surgery plays a vital role in maintaining both dental and overall health, addressing issues that range from minor concerns to complex medical needs. Understanding the types of procedures, preparation requirements, recovery expectations, and cost factors empowers patients to make informed decisions. With proper planning and guidance from qualified oral surgeons, individuals can approach oral surgery with greater confidence, clarity, and financial preparedness. If you need dental services, contact Nurture Dental Health PC today.

When Should You Schedule Your Child's First Dental Visit?

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 14:18:36 GMT

Establishing a dental care routine is crucial for ensuring lifelong oral health. As a parent, one of the most important decisions you will make is determining when your child should begin visiting the dentist. While there might be varying opinions on the exact age, what remains clear is the importance of starting early to prevent dental issues. This post explores the optimal age for a child's first dental visit and the reasons it's essential to prioritize dental care from the start.

Consider Dental Development

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months after the appearance of their first tooth. This early introduction allows the dentist to monitor the development of your child's oral health from the beginning. By starting early, you can catch potential issues before they become problems, ensuring a healthy smile as your child grows. This proactive approach builds a foundation of good oral health habits that can last a lifetime.

Consider Educational Value

Early dental visits also serve an educational purpose. They provide parents with valuable information on nutrition, teething, bite alignment, and daily oral hygiene practices. According to the CDC, it's estimated that 50% of children develop cavities in their baby or permanent teeth by the time they turn nine years old. This alarming statistic underscores the importance of early dental education. Knowing how to prevent cavities and maintain good oral hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay in young children.

Consider Long-Term Benefits

In addition to health benefits, starting dental visits at an early age helps children become familiar with the dental office environment. Regular visits foster comfort and reduce anxiety associated with dental check-ups. This psychological preparation makes future dental appointments less intimidating, promoting a positive attitude toward oral health care. As children grow accustomed to these visits, they are more likely to maintain regular check-ups and dental practices into adulthood.

Beginning dental visits by the age of one sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy habits and preventive care. Starting early not only addresses immediate oral health needs but also instills confidence and comfort in dental settings. By prioritizing early dental visits, parents can play a pivotal role in their child's oral health journey, ensuring strong and healthy teeth well into the future. To schedule your child's first appointment with a dentist , contact our team at Nurture Dental Health today!

3 Ways to Prepare Yourself for Wisdom Teeth Removal

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 12:50:06 GMT

Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a common dental procedure that we've found many individuals between the ages of 17 and 25 undergo. While the thought of surgery can be nerve-racking, being well-prepared can significantly ease the experience and aid in a quicker recovery. It's essential to arm yourself with knowledge and practical tips to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible. Here are a few effective ways to prepare yourself for wisdom teeth removal, ensuring both your physical comfort and peace of mind.

1. Consult With Your Dentist

First and foremost, it's crucial to have a thorough consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon before the procedure. This is the time to ask questions, understand the expected outcome, and discuss any potential risks or complications. Understanding the process can alleviate anxiety and ensure you're fully informed about what to expect. According to Byte, an online dental resource, 66% of American adults aged 18 to 64 visited the dentist in the prior 12 months, highlighting the proactive approach that many people take in maintaining their oral health and making informed decisions about procedures like wisdom teeth removal.

2. Prepare Post-Surgery Care

Another essential step is to organize your post-surgery care routine. Stock up on soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes, as these will be easier to eat during your recovery. It's also wise to prepare ice packs to help reduce swelling. Make sure you have any prescribed medications filled in advance and understand the recommended dosage and timing to manage pain effectively. Preparing these items ahead of time ensures you're not scrambling on the day of the surgery or once you return home.

3. Find Post-Surgery Support

Make sure you arrange for proper care and support for the day of and following your surgery. You'll need someone to drive you home due to the effects of the anesthesia and possibly help you with basic chores around the house for the day. It's beneficial to have someone check in on you occasionally to assist if needed, ensuring your recovery is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Having a support system in place allows you to focus on healing without additional worries.

Preparing for your wisdom teeth removal involves a combination of organization, education, and support. By taking the time to discuss the procedure with your dental care provider, organizing your post-surgery necessities, and ensuring you have adequate support, you can greatly enhance your comfort and ease throughout the process. These proactive steps will provide you not only with physical relief but also the confidence and peace of mind to face the procedure head-on at Nurture Dental Health. Give us a call today for more helpful tips!

3 Crucial Steps to Take Care of Your Teeth

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 14:58:11 GMT

Maintaining good dental hygiene is vital not only for having a dazzling smile but also for overall health. Neglecting your teeth can lead to various dental problems, some of which can have serious consequences. It is essential to adopt effective oral care practices that prevent tooth decay and other issues. This blog post highlights some crucial steps you should take to ensure your teeth remain healthy and strong.

1. Brush and Floss Your Teeth

One of the most fundamental steps in dental care is regular brushing and flossing. It is recommended that individuals brush their teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste to ensure the removal of plaque and food particles. Flossing daily helps in cleaning between the teeth where a toothbrush can't reach. Regular oral hygiene routines can reduce the risk of developing cavities and gum diseases.

2. Attend Regular Dental Visits

Despite rigorous brushing and flossing, regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining oral health. Dentists can spot early signs of decay, which over 1 in 4 adults in the United States suffer from untreated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These visits often include professional cleaning sessions, which are essential for removing tartar buildup that regular brushing can't eliminate. In our experience, routine visits to the dentist every six months can prevent minor issues from becoming significant problems.

3. Consume a Balanced Diet

Diet also plays a pivotal role in dental health. Consuming a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients supports not only overall health but also fortifies your teeth. Limiting sugary and acidic foods can prevent enamel erosion and cavities. Drinking plenty of water also aids in washing away food particles and maintaining saliva production, which naturally defends against bacteria and plaque build-up.

Taking care of your teeth requires consistent effort and a conscious lifestyle. By incorporating effective brushing and flossing habits, attending regular dental check-ups, and maintaining a tooth-friendly diet, you can greatly reduce the risk of dental problems. Prioritizing oral health not only preserves your smile but also contributes to your overall well-being, so make sure you incorporate these crucial steps into your daily routine. Contact Nurture Dental Health to learn about our dental services! We offer preventative maintenance, cosmetic, and oral surgery dentistry services. Schedule your visit with one of our dentists today!

How to Recover From Anesthesia

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 13:18:51 GMT

Experiencing anesthesia can be daunting, and recovering from it requires careful attention and proper measures. Whether you’ve undergone a minor outpatient procedure, a dental implant, or a major surgery, understanding how to navigate the post-anesthesia phase is crucial for your health and comfort. Here are some practical steps to help you recover smoothly from anesthesia.

Prioritize Rest and Recovery

First and foremost, it’s essential to rest and allow your body to recuperate. After receiving anesthesia, you may feel groggy, disoriented, or extremely fatigued. According to the American Society of Anesthesiologists, arranging for someone to drive you home and spend the first 24 hours resting in a comfortable environment is highly recommended. Prioritize sleep and relaxation to give your body the chance to heal and shake off the lingering effects of the anesthesia, especially if you've had a procedure like a dental implant.

Stay Hydrated and Follow a Light Diet

Maintaining hydration and starting with a light diet are crucial steps in the recovery process. Anesthesia can sometimes cause nausea or a loss of appetite, so it’s best to start with small, light meals and plenty of fluids. Drinking water, clear broths, and herbal teas can help flush out any anesthetic agents remaining in your system. Gradually, as you feel better, reintroduce more substantial foods into your diet. Avoid alcohol and caffeine during this time, as these can dehydrate you or interfere with your recovery.

Avoid Strenuous Activities and Focus on Safety

Avoiding activities that require full concentration or physical coordination is another critical aspect of recovering from anesthesia. According to Verywell Health, you shouldn’t drive for 24 to 48 hours after receiving anesthesia, as the sedative effects can impair reaction times and judgment. For those recovering from procedures like a dental implant , it’s also wise to avoid strenuous activities or making significant decisions during this period. Follow your healthcare provider’s

recommendations on when it is safe to return to your regular routine.

Patience and adherence to medical advice are key when recovering from anesthesia. Ensure you get plenty of rest, maintain proper nutrition and hydration, and avoid any potentially dangerous activities until the anesthesia has completely worn off. By following these steps, you can help ensure a safe and swift recovery, allowing you to return to your daily life with renewed energy and well-being. Contact Nurture Dental Health for more information today.

3 Ways to Avoid Gum Disease

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 15:32:42 GMT

Gum disease is a common oral health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including tooth loss and a negative impact on overall health. Luckily, with a few preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing gum disease. In this blog post, we'll explore some effective strategies to help you maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile.

1. Maintain a Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine

One of the most effective ways to prevent gum disease is by adhering to a consistent oral hygiene routine. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily can remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can cause gum disease. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can further help to combat harmful bacteria in your mouth. By keeping your oral hygiene routine consistent, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing gum issues and potentially oral surgery as well.

2. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Regular dental checkups are crucial for preventing gum disease and other dental problems. Dentists can identify early signs of gum disease and provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing alone might not eliminate. According to Byte, about 50% of all American adults show signs of gum disease, so those routine visits are critical in catching issues before they advance. Don’t skip those dental appointments; they are essential for your long-term oral health and the prevention of needing oral surgery.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Your diet plays a significant role in your oral health. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can strengthen your gums and teeth, making them more resistant to disease. Foods high in vitamin C, such as fruits and vegetables, can help to prevent gum inflammation and support tissue repair. Avoiding sugary snacks and drinks can also reduce the risk of plaque formation. A healthy diet not only benefits your gums but also contributes to your overall well-being.

Preventing gum disease involves a combination of good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and a healthy diet. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can protect your gums and maintain a healthy smile. Remember, early prevention is key to avoiding serious dental issues down the line, so take action today to keep your gums healthy and strong. Please call Nurture Dental Health to discuss gum disease and any concerns you may have regarding oral surgery .

What to Look For in a Dental Office

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 13:12:03 GMT

According to our team, everyone should see a dentist at least twice a year for basic dental cleaning and examinations. Unfortunately, a significant percentage of the nation's adults neglect their teeth and oral health. According to Byte, two-thirds of U.S. adults have visited their dentists in the past year. The adults who didn't might experience dental problems or already have them. If it's been a while since your last visit to a dental office, and you need advice on finding one, here's what to look for in a local dental office.

Experienced and Professional Staff

The best dental office staff are highly experienced and very professional in their interactions with patients. Whether you have questions about insurance, dental plans, or available dental services, the staff should be happy to answer your questions so you can make fully informed decisions about your dental care. The dentists also should be knowledgeable, experienced, and highly skilled to ensure you get the best care.

Patient-Focused Dental Practice

When you visit a dental practice, its staff should be attentive to your needs and communicative. From the office staff to the dental assistants and dentists, you should feel welcome, rather than someone filling an appointment time until the day is done. The dental assistants and dentists should learn a little about you, which can help them deliver better care and advise you on how to better care for your teeth.

A Sanitary Environment

Dental instruments and equipment see a lot of mouths that spread germs. The staff in a dental practice should do their best to ensure the entire office is clean and sanitary. From the waiting room to the dental chair and all the instruments used to complete your dental care, everything must be clean and sanitary. If you notice dirt, rust, and grime anywhere in the office, especially in the rooms where care is provided, it's time to find another dental office .

Accepts Your Dental Insurance or Plan

Dental work can be very costly if you don't have dental insurance or a dental plan to offset costs. If you have dental insurance, you should ensure a local dentist accepts it and can help you understand your out-of-pocket costs for different dental procedures. If you have a dental plan instead of dental insurance, you must ensure it's accepted.

You can call to learn more about our dental practice and schedule your first appointment with one of the area's best. Call us at Nurture Dental Health today!

Why It's Crucial to Visit a Dentist Regularly

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 14:53:37 GMT

Regularly getting dental care is the best way to maintain good oral health. It's also the best way to prevent painful procedures. When you have healthy teeth and gums, your dental visits are affordable and less likely to involve painful experiences. You also get the best smile possible. Here are some of the many reasons why it's crucial to schedule regular visits for dental care two or three times a year.

Catch Cavities and Other Problems Early

When you see your dentist for a routine cleaning and dental examination, you have the best chance of catching cavities and other issues long before they turn into painful problems. According to Byte, nine out of 10 adults have cavities that either have been treated or need dental care. You might not have any cavities, chipped teeth, or other potential dental problems, but you won't know if you haven't scheduled a dental appointment.

Maintain Good Oral Health

A basic dental appointment usually includes a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup that could cause gum disease, bad breath, or other oral health problems. A dental assistant helps with taking X-rays and cleaning your teeth by scraping away any plaque and tartar buildup and polishing your teeth to make them clean and shiny. Many people also opt for teeth whitening treatments during routine dental appointments to help make their smiles brighter. Having clean, white teeth is a great way to maintain good oral health and keep your teeth for a lifetime.

Document Changing Conditions

Dental examinations also include X-rays to spot any cavities or other problems and provide dentists with a record of your oral health. It's important to continually document your teeth and oral health so any unexpected changes are caught. You might damage one or more teeth while working or doing strenuous activities, like riding a bike, ice skating, or just eating popcorn and biting down on a hard kernel. Whenever your teeth are damaged, X-rays reveal the extent of harm done and help your dentist determine the best way to treat it.

These are just a few reasons you should be sure to regularly visit a dental office. If it's been a while since your last dental appointment, you can call our friendly staff at Nurture Dental Health and schedule a dental cleaning and examination to take a look at your smile. We are also happy to schedule a consultation for oral surgery with you.

How Sedation Services Take the Stress Out of Dentist Visits

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 16:57:53 GMT

Dental anxiety is a real problem that affects many people. It doesn't matter how young or old you are, feeling uncomfortable at the dentist can affect anyone. For some, dental anxiety can be so strong that it can stop them from getting necessary dental work done. Sedation services can help you get the dental repair you need. Let's learn more about sedation services and how they can help you with your dental health.

What Is Dental Sedation?

Dental sedation is when a patient is sedated using either laughing gas, oral medication, or IV-administered medication to provide them with anxiety relief during their appointment. This enables those who are fearful of the dentist to still receive regular cleanings and fillings to keep their teeth happy and healthy. You may even be able to drive yourself home after your appointment depending on the type of sedation you receive. According to Verywell Health, it's not recommended to drive for 24 to 48 hours after receiving anesthesia, but Forbes reports that laughing gas is metabolized very quickly and will wear off by the time you're ready to go.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Sedation?

Dental sedation can help to reduce anxiety and calm patients' nerves, but it has many other benefits as well. Let's take a look at some of the advantages of sedation for dental repair.

It Saves Money

When you have dental anxiety, it can keep you from going to see the dentist until it's an absolute emergency or you're in pain. This can be a problem because the more extensive your dental work, the more you may need to budget for procedures. For example, a root canal will cost more than a simple filling. With sedation services, you can feel confident knowing you can receive regular care without any fear, so you can treat small problems before they become bigger issues.

It Reduces Discomfort

Another benefit of dental sedation is that it can also reduce discomfort during a procedure. For example, you may not be a fan of receiving novocaine before getting a filling, or your teeth may be extra sensitive during cleanings. Dental sedation can help sensitive patients get through these dental services with ease.

It Improves Dental Health

When hurdles are removed that are stopping you from getting the dental care you need, you will naturally experience better dental health. If you've been avoiding the dentist because of anxiety or uncomfortable dental treatments, dental sedation could be a good option for you. You should talk with your dentist about which types of dental sedation are available and which would work well for your particular needs.

These are just a few of the benefits of dental sedation. If you're looking for a reliable dentist in your area for help with dental issues, please contact us at Nurture Dental Health today.

Why Your Child's First Dentist Appointment Is Important

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 13:09:03 GMT

Dental care is a vital part of your child’s overall wellness. Getting your children started early with regular dental visits can help set them up for a lifetime of good oral health. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, you should take your child to the dentist when their first tooth appears or at the first birthday, whichever comes first. Let’s look at some reasons why your child’s early dental appointments are important.

Provide Early Intervention

One important reason why you should take your child to the dentist at a young age is for early intervention. If your child has any type of dental issues, the dentist will be able to detect this early on. This is crucial to your child’s future dental health because they can address problems before they get worse.

Start Good Habits

It’s also important to take young children to the dentist so that good dental habits can be started early on. Your children’s habits will be greatly impacted by the example that you set. When you are consistent and insistent, they will be too. According to the CDC, about 26% of adults have untreated tooth decay. You can help your children avoid this by encouraging them to develop good habits from a young age.

Reduce Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety is a real issue that affects both children and adults. Dental anxiety can stop people from visiting the dentist. This can then lead to increasingly unhealthy dental habits, tooth decay, and other problems. When you start taking your child to the dentist at a very young age, they will consider this to be a very normal part of their lives. If you make sure that dental visits are always pleasant, then your child is less likely to fear the dentist.

Get Early Orthodontic Screenings

When your child is a little older, they will have an early orthodontic screening when they visit the dentist . This is important as it gives you the opportunity to address orthodontic issues more quickly. Getting orthodontic treatment early is preferable to waiting until later in life.

If you have young children, it’s imperative that they get started with pediatric dental visits early. If you would like to learn more about our practice or if you’d like to schedule a visit, please contact Nurture Dental Health today.

How to Prepare for Your Oral Surgery

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 13:39:52 GMT

Oral surgeries are very common nowadays. They include things like getting wisdom teeth taken out. You want to make sure that you are well-prepared on the day of the surgery and afterward. Here are some things to keep in mind.

Make Sure You Have Someone Who Can Drive You Home

You don't want to be driving after you've been under anesthesia. According to Verywell Health, you should wait more than 48 hours after receiving anesthesia to even think about getting behind the wheel. Ask someone to drive you to and from the oral surgeon's office. Confirm the time of your surgery with the dentist's office so your driver knows when you need to be there.

Talk With Your Oral Surgeon About the Surgery

Not knowing how something is performed is one of the main reasons people get stressed. You don't have to feel that way. Get in touch with your oral surgeon or someone who is part of their team and talk about what's going to happen. They will be reassuring and explain how they will make you comfortable throughout the procedure. It usually involves numbing the area so that you won't feel a thing. You can voice any concerns and also tell them about any medical conditions you might have or medications you take that might make you bleed more. This will help them be prepared, too.

Follow All the Directions

There are usually a few things you'll need to do before surgery. You might have to stop eating and drinking after a certain time. They will also tell you to stop smoking past a certain point if you do happen to do that. You also shouldn't smoke after the surgery since that can inhibit healing. You might have to not take certain prescription medicine the day before or the day of. They will tell you. This will make things go smoothly.

Oral surgeries are easy if you follow the directions that your oral surgeon gives you before and after the procedure. Usually, there is minimal recovery time, and you can get back to doing what you did. Do you need to learn more about oral surgeries ? We'll be glad to walk you through everything you need to know, and we can also schedule an appointment if you're in need of oral surgery. Contact Nurture Dental Health today!

What to Expect When Getting Dental Implants

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 15:19:48 GMT

Missing teeth can negatively impact your confidence and quality of life. Thanks to advances in medical technology, patients have a solution to replace their missing teeth in dental implants. If you're curious about the process, read on for more insight about what to expect.

A Thorough Examination

Before you get your hopes up about getting permanent dental implants, you must receive approval from your local dental practitioner. During your consultation for implants, your dentist will do a thorough examination of your mouth and jawbone. Expect to have X-rays and questions about your overall health. Your dentist needs to make sure your jaw is in good shape for this type of oral surgery because not everyone is eligible for dental implants.

An Investment

Dental implants are a big investment because they're a permanent solution. Fortunately, your insurance provider may be able to help assist with covering your implant surgery. However, keep in mind that the reason for your implant may impact how much your insurance covers. For example, according to USA Today, your insurance provider may cover up to 50% of a cosmetic implant. Be sure to reach out to your dental insurance company after discussing your implant surgery with your dentist to determine how much will be covered and if you can set up a payment plan to cover the cost.

A Long Healing Process

Once you have approval for your dental implant surgery, expect the process to take a while. In other words, you won't have a full mouth of dental implants within a week or two. This oral surgery involves the placement of titanium implants into your jawbone, and it can take several months to heal. Once your jaw has fully healed, your dentist will place crowns on the implants.

Natural Looking Teeth

Once your dental implants are complete, you can show off a set of natural-looking teeth. The implanted crowns also function like natural teeth, so you can eat and chew your favorite foods without worrying about them coming loose like an adhered denture might. You don't have to remove them at night, either, and you can brush and floss just like you would your natural teeth.

Your local dental offices can help restore your confidence, quality of life, and oral health with dental implants. To learn more about qualifying for this procedure, contact our Nurture Dental Health today for more information.

Why Is Cosmetic Dentistry Common?

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 12:07:07 GMT

Cosmetic dentistry refers to the branch of dentistry that offers options to improve the appearance of your smile. Many individuals reach out to professionals for teeth whitening, dental bonding, veneers, and many other treatments. If you are looking for someone to help you with cosmetic dentistry, you should have no trouble finding the right professional, as these are regular services provided by most practices. Let’s dive into a few reasons why cosmetic dentistry is a common solution for many patients.

It Gives Patients a Brighter Smile

According to the Foundation for Oral Rehabilitation, about 30% of general practitioners in the United States are expected to place dental implants. While more invasive procedures for dental corrections are available, cosmetic work provides non-surgical corrections such as straightening teeth and whitening. There are a few treatments that achieve whiter smiles. Resin bonding is a technique that shapes and molds teeth to give the appearance of a brighter smile. There’s the teeth whitening process that uses light-activated technology. And finally, there’s the option of internal bleaching. Each of these options are not as invasive as dental implants and typically take a much shorter amount of time, which contributes to the popularity of cosmetic dentistry.

It's Affordable

Cosmetic dentistry has grown to be more affordable, and most practitioners offer flexible payment plans. This practice is no longer considered a luxury for only the wealthy. You should be able to get cosmetic dentistry done as long as you find someone that will work on your budget. Stained or crooked teeth can be a detriment to your confidence, but it does not have to be a detriment to your wallet.

It Can Improve Confidence

A lack of confidence can significantly affect your daily life. Your smile should be something that helps you feel more confident, but for many, it is an insecurity. Cosmetic dentistry is a popular option for preserving the naturally white look of teeth because it gives you the ability to feel proud of your smile. You can look to a practitioner to help you repair the issues that could affect your confidence levels.

Cosmetic dentistry has grown more popular over time and has become more accessible to the public. Individuals who reach out to general practitioners for help with cosmetic dentistry can expect an increase in confidence, greater affordability, and a brighter smile. If you have issues with your teeth that you think could be fixed with this branch of dentistry, reach out to Nurture Dental Health today to book a consultation.

How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Improve Your Smile

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 19:26:14 GMT

Everybody wants to have a nice smile, but that's easier said than done. A great smile can give you more confidence in social settings. If you want to improve your smile, here's how a cosmetic dentist can help.

Fix Missing Teeth

You might feel embarrassed to smile if you're missing teeth, but missing teeth are a lot more common than you might think. According to the Foundation for Oral Rehabilitation, 69% of adults aged 35 to 44 have lost at least one of their teeth. If you're missing a tooth as an adult, a cosmetic dentist can replace it for you to fix your smile. Smiling with a missing tooth can be difficult, but a dental implant is a suitable substitute.

Whiten Your Teeth

Even if you don't need a dental implant, you can still visit a cosmetic dentist to whiten your teeth. Stained or discolored teeth are a big problem for a lot of people, but you can remedy that discoloration with a tooth whitening treatment. Your cosmetic dentist can help you remove stains and give your teeth an overall whiter and brighter look, so you can have the confidence to smile more.

Fix Misalignment

If you've got an overbite or underbite, or if your top teeth don't line up with your bottom teeth, a cosmetic dentist can help. Working to fix alignment is one of the most common things cosmetic dentists do, and fixing misaligned teeth is easier than ever with the new treatment options that are available today.

Fix Chipped Teeth

Even if you don't lose a tooth, you can still damage it. Lots of people chip their teeth playing sports or eating certain foods, and cosmetic dentists help fix those problems as well. You don't need a full dental implant to fix a chipped tooth, and you might not need to repair small chips if they're not too deep. If your tooth is chipped, you should at least consult a cosmetic dentist.

There are a lot of dental issues that can seriously affect your smile, and everybody wants to have a nice smile. If you have a chipped or missing tooth or you want to whiten your teeth, contact Nurture Dental Health PC to schedule an appointment today.

5 Things You Didn't Know About Oral Surgery

Sat, 22 Oct 2022 00:38:33 GMT

Whether it's a root canal or a simple tooth extraction, preparing for a dental procedure will put your mind at ease. After all, you're not alone. According to The World Health Organization, about 3.5 billion people worldwide are affected by oral diseases. For some of these cases, dentists prescribe oral surgery . Before you get comfortable in the dentist's chair, here are five things you didn't know about oral surgery.

1. You May Have to Fast Before Your Surgery

Ask your dentist or oral surgeon about the limitations on what you can eat and drink the day before the procedure. Oral surgery (among many other procedures) may carry the risk of pulmonary aspiration, which happens when beverages, foods, or saliva get inhaled into the airways. To prevent this, your oral surgeon will likely instruct you to fast for at least 12 hours before the surgery.

2. You May Not Be Able to Eat Normally After Your Surgery

You should prepare for the discomfort you'll experience roughly 48 hours after the surgery. Do this by stocking up on easy-to-eat items in your refrigerator and pantry. Smoothies, scrambled eggs, gazpacho (cold soup), or frozen yogurt are great examples of foods that require little to no chewing. Avoid spicy foods since they can worsen tooth and gum discomfort.

3. You Can Lower Your Risk of Infection

There is a risk of infection with almost every surgical treatment, but you can ask your dentist for tips on how to mitigate infection. You could be given antibiotics before treatment for certain pre-existing conditions to prevent complications. If you have diabetes, a cardiovascular disease, are pregnant, or are under any medication that can affect the outcome of the operation, let the dentist know.

4. You May Need Sedation

Both nitrous oxide and intravenous (IV) anesthetic can be used for sedation during oral surgery. Make arrangements for transportation to and from your oral surgery treatment beforehand. This is because your judgment and reaction time may be impaired by anesthesia, making it risky for you to drive afterward.

5. You Should Dress Appropriately

Patients going for surgery often forget to think about their choice of clothing. While you should be comfortable, wearing a shirt that exposes your arms will make it easier for a nurse to check your vital signs or administer your IV. Avoid light colors and shirts you care about since taking off gauze can get messy.

You should ask your oral surgeon any questions regarding your surgery, recovery, or the dangers and advantages of the procedure. We want you to feel informed and confident when getting surgery done. Get in touch with us at Nurture Dental Health today to schedule a consultation!

September 2022 - Back To School!

7058918469 — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 19:34:01 GMT

September 2022 - Back To School!

Above is photos of our team, enjoying the last bit of summer sunshine as we bring on September and the full swing of back to school and getting ready for the fall season. Have you seen the fountains outside of our office? They are so pleasant and peaceful to listen and watch. As the fall season is upon us, the fountains will eventually be turned off as they normally are for the changing of the seasons.

Time is flying here! the kids are back to school, and adjusting to a new normal.

If you haven't been in for a dental appointment since the beginning of the pandemic, this message is for you. Please make sure you keep current with your dental health and regular checkups. We have openings for routine hygiene cleanings and exams. Don't forget to make time for your own self care.

4 Tips to Help You Avoid Dental Repair

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 15:11:42 GMT

No one wants to hear that they need dental repair . That's why most people would do anything to avoid having any dental procedure. One of the best ways you can avoid dental repair is by preventing them, which can be done with great dental hygiene. Let's look at four ways you can do this.

1. Keep Up With Great Oral Hygiene

The best way to prevent any kind of dental procedure is to have excellent oral hygiene. You will still need to visit a dentist a couple of times a year, but these appointments will only be standard cleanings. For good oral hygiene, according to the American Dental Association, it’s recommended that you brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes as well as use floss every day.

2. Add Mouth Wash to Your Routine

While brushing and flossing should be enough to maintain good hygiene, dentists also recommend adding mouth wash to your daily cleaning routine. Mouth wash can prevent plaque from forming for longer periods of time. Additionally, dentists recommend changing to fluoride toothpaste, which adds an extra layer of protection to your teeth.

3. Watch What You Eat and Drink

Plaque tends to form quicker on your teeth when you eat sugar and carbohydrates. If you don't have an optimal cleaning routine, then the bacteria could stay in your mouth and produce acids that will harm your teeth quicker. That’s why it’s important to watch what you eat or drink, and if you consume surgery foods, make sure you brush and floss your teeth soon after.

4. Visit the Dentist Regularly

Visiting the dentist every six months can help you retain good oral hygiene. Dentists are the only ones who can remove the plaque that accumulates around your teeth and gums. If you don’t have this plaque removed, you will be at a greater risk for cavities and decay. Getting your teeth plaque removed can help you avoid dental repair.

Now that you know what to do to avoid any dental repair, you can feel better about going to the dentist every six months. If you’re in need of a dental cleaning or need any kind of dental repair, contact Nurture Dental Health PC today to schedule an appointment.

3 Surprising Reasons You Should Visit a Dental Office

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 13:13:12 GMT

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 26% of adults in the U.S. have untreated tooth decay. You should never delay treatment if you suspect you have tooth decay because it can lead to more serious issues. Apart from tooth decay, there are other lesser-known reasons to visit the dental office . Here are some that may fascinate you.

Relieve Stress

Did you know that dental problems can lead to stress? Unfortunately, stress can be quite harmful to your overall health. Stress can even worsen issues with your dental health. It's common for stressed individuals to grind their teeth when they are asleep. This can lead to headaches, fractured teeth, and jaw pain. To prevent this from happening, you need to visit a dental office and have any dental issues addressed before they cause further complications.

Safeguard Your Heart Health

Gum disease or periodontal disease is associated with an increased risk of getting heart problems. When you have gum disease, the risk of getting bacterial infections in your bloodstream is elevated. This can affect the heart valves and cause heart disease. So, if you want to safeguard your heart health, you need to visit the dentist regularly to ensure that your gum health is on point. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene can prevent gum disease, which in turn will reduce the risk of blood infections and heart disease.

Protect Your Brain Health

There is a significant link between your teeth and your brain health. Gum disease and dental conditions like cavities produce bacteria that can find their way into your bloodstream and cause issues in other areas of the body. When this happens, there is a possibility that bacteria can spread to the brain. This is why you need to visit a dental office each time you suspect dental disease or cavities.

These are some surprising reasons why you need to visit your dentist regularly. By ensuring that your dental health is well taken care of, you will be safeguarding your heart and brain. Your dental health is connected to your overall health. Therefore, neglecting it is essentially neglecting your entire body. Get in touch with us today if you are looking for a dental office near you. We would be happy to help!

April 2022 - Oral Cancer Awareness Month

7058918469 — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 12:03:35 GMT

April 2022 - Oral Cancer Awareness Month

April is already here, and with it come all of the beautiful blooming flowers. Here is a photo of the purple tulips that come up every spring in the courtyard of the Integrated Health Campus surrounding the fountains which usually start after May. April showers bring May flowers.

Did you know that April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month? During your recare visits to our office, which we recommend two times a year, we will do your oral cancer screening as part of your exam in our office. All of the soft tissues are clinically examined visually.

When not in our office, when you are doing your routine hygiene at home, make it a point to evaluate yourself in the mirror for any visual or physical changes in your soft tissues. Don't hesitate to contact our office for a quick exam if you need some reassurance!

Dr. Jackson Nguyen is a Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. He has advanced training in examining, diagnosing, and treating oral pathologies. If you've ever met him, you will know he is a plethora of knowledge and always willing to share what he knows with his patients to help answer their questions.

March 2022

7058918469 — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 21:20:10 GMT

March 2022

March is here! Spring is on the way! (We hope, with how bipolar Mother Nature has been this week). Our kids enjoyed the snow we got on the 12th! It was nice to have one last day of sledding before spring is here. And it wasn't too bitterly cold for them to enjoy playing in it (or eating it, as they normally do first ever time it snows).

March 7-11th was Dental Assistant Recognition Week. Our team does so much behind the scenes to keep our office running and it does not go unnoticed. We are so grateful for our team helping us care for our patients. They really do know how to do it all.

Dentistry in and of itself is such technical field which incorporates so many diverse aspects. We work in tenths of a millimeter all day long. Our attention to detail is needed on a much higher level than most other fields of medicine. Dentistry is a difficult field to master, but once most of the initial hurdles of orientation are passed, it can be one of the most rewarding fields. To change a person's life through their smile is such a wonderful gift and art to be able to do.

As we are a small family owned business, our dental assistants and team members in our office carry such a wide role of jobs in our office from opening to closing on a daily basis. Without our supporting team members, we'd have a lot less to smile about! Cheers for taking on the challenge that the dental field is with us. Thank you for helping us take care of our patients and contributing as a team to keep the office going! Please know that more people are smiling because of your contributions.

End of Summer Updates & Removable Options for Tooth Replacement

7058918469 — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 19:41:45 GMT

End of Summer Updates & Removable Options for Tooth Replacement

What a busy spring and summer it has been for our practice!

Dr. Lauren Miller & Cyrene have joined our Nurture Dental Health family and have greatly helped to serve our growing practice. We are so happy to have her join our team! Dr. Miller also has graciously offered to help cover Dr. Tran’s planned maternity leave in September and October.

Dr. Tran and Dr. Nguyen are expecting baby #4 in September! A little girl and we are so very excited for her upcoming arrival.

Our new navy t-shirts have arrived! Request yours at your next appointment while supplies last!

And now onto our blog topic for today!

Options for tooth replacement that are removable:

Flexible based partials are a great way to replace teeth. No metal, with a flexible base to help with ease and comfort for wear. Can be made in 2-3 visits.

Metal framework partials are one of the strongest forms of removable partial dentures. They are very ridged and resistant to fracture compared to the all resin alternatives.

All resin based partials are the most economical of tooth replacement options. Clasping is normally a wrought wire that is flexible. Clasping can also be in a gum or clear colored less visible clasp as an upgrade to the most basic version. They are easier to make modifications to if additional teeth need to be added in the future.

Home care:

As with any removable appliance, be sure to store safely away fiorom your pets who may like to chew on them!

-Never store in a hot car and brush them with a toothbrush or denture brush.

-Do not use any abrasive toothpastes.

-Some colorful mouthwashes can cause them to take up stains more easily. Try to stick with a dentukre safe cleaning/storage solution.

Children's Dental Health Month

7058918469 — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 20:09:59 GMT

February is Children's Dental Health Month

Happy New Year! And what a year 2021 has been! I don't know about you, but I'm ready for spring! Lots of snow and ice over the last month. I hope you like the Snapchat photo of me with two of our boys . They really enjoyed the broccoli filter, but have yet to enjoy actually eating broccoli.

February is recognized as Children's Dental Health Month. Our children's dental health definitely requires time and attention, but mostly patience on the part of the parents who are looking after their children. Most small children don't enjoy having their teeth brushed. Actually, some adults don't enjoy having their teeth brushed. The benefits of regular teeth brushing far outweigh the costs of not doing so.

Children's teeth are more susceptible to decay than adult teeth as they have thinner of that hard, very mineralized outer layer known as Enamel. Enamel is like the armor of the tooth, without it, or once it is penetrated, decay can pretty much spread unchecked. That is why it is so important to keep our enamel that covers our teeth as healthy as possible. When decay, or dental caries penetrates through this calcified outer layer into the under layer known as dentin (which is less mineralized and more organic), we call this the point of no return. This is the point at which we will recommend a filling or other restoration depending on the extent of decay. All cavities (dental caries) start out microscopic and become larger if left unchecked.

Ways to prevent or stop decay include:

Drink plenty of water
Brush your teeth 2 times a day, and floss daily (not just when food gets caught somewhere)
Use a fluoride toothpaste
Decrease frequency and amount of highly refined sugars or very sticky foods in your diet
Decrease frequency and amount of carbonated, acidic beverages that you drink throughout the day
Visit your dentist regularly, at least every six months

Why water? Water helps to dilute acids and sugars consumed in the mouth, it helps to wash them away as well. If you are well hydrated, your mouth will be less dry and produce more saliva. The saliva in your mouth actually helps to buffer acids in your mouth as well.

Why brush your teeth 2 times a day and floss daily? Most eat 2-4 meals/snacks throughout the day. Before you go to sleep is a great time to brush your teeth as you never know what food has been left behind. Flossing to actually clean your teeth is different then flossing to get stuck food out. The proper way to floss is to actually adapt the string floss around the contours of each tooth and slide slightly below the gum line (no we aren't chopping off/cutting into the pink papilla, we are cleaning around this tissue too). The longer you go without brushing and flossing, you will probably notice a film or sticky substance buildup on your teeth. This is called plaque. Dental plaque is a gooey substance secreted by bacteria that helps them stay stuck to your teeth. Every time you eat any carbohydrates, the bacteria also eat whatever is left behind in the mouth and secrete acid as part of their metabolism. When you brush your teeth and floss, you are physically removing the bacteria, or decreasing the bacterial load in your mouth. Less bacteria, means less acid secretion, means less damage to your teeth. Floss really gets those hard to reach places your toothbrush cannot get into.

Why use fluoride toothpaste? Fluoride in tooth paste can remineralize enamel that has been exposed to acid and effectively demineralized as a result. Enough demineralization of your enamel will cause a "cavity" or hole in your tooth as the tooth structure weakens and then cavitates. If you are constantly or repetitively brushing your teeth with a fluoride based toothpaste it can help reverse the small damages resulting from your favorite foods throughout the day. It's one way to fight back! Depending on the age of your child, the amount of fluoride toothpaste used by your children should be limited. Too much fluoride can be toxic for young children. So it is very important if your child is of the age that enjoys swallowing the flavored toothpaste to limit to the size of a grain of rice. By the age of 3-6 years old, a pea sized amount of toothpaste becomes more appropriate. Age 6 years and older can use about double the size of a pea.

Why decrease the amount and frequency of highly refined sugars and sticky foods, carbonated and acidic beverages? Every time you eat sugar or sticky foods or drink carbonated (acidic) beverages, they count as an exposure. It generally will take your body about 15 minutes to get the acidity level back to normal or neutral. If you are snacking, you will spend more of your day in an "acid attack" state. Think of the length of exposure to acid. The more acid exposure, the more demineralization, the larger the cavities.

Why visit your dentist regularly? Having an extra set of trained eyes, we as dentists can look for developing issues before they become larger problems. We will help keep you in check. We will redirect you if we see certain habits are contributing to acid attack on your teeth. Generally the longer you go in between visits, the bigger problems can become. They also become more expensive or time consuming to treat as well. In conclusion, conservative treatment is our hope for all of our patients.

Your child will be happier seeing the dentist if more often than not we aren't finding any problems at their dental visits. We aim to have positive outcomes with all of our patients. We understand that life sometimes gets in the way and you may go longer in between visits. Your efforts at home to keep your teeth clean and healthy teeth habits will pay off in between your dental visits!

We hope this post was helpful and informative! Hopefully spring is almost here!

Until next time!

Dr. Tran

How to Protect Yourself from Oral Cancer

7058918469 — Mon, 28 Dec 2020 13:05:23 GMT

How to Protect Yourself from Oral Cancer

If there were a quick and painless way to identify pre-cancerous cells in the mouth of someone you loved, would you want them to try it? What if that person were you? The truth is, as uncomfortable as it may be to even think of the word “cancer,” thinking about it, and thus detecting it early, is key. That’s why, if you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, you should schedule a visit, because while the oral exam that accompanies your cleaning may not be noticeable to you, it’s often your earliest line of defense in the detection of oral cancer.

Lets take a quick look at a few of the risk factors and symptoms, and consider a few options you may have to help reduce risk. Keep in mind that no list is exhaustive, and to always share with each of your health care providers your concerns and strategies regarding your oral health.

Those at Risk for Oral Cancer:

Passing certain age thresholds and engaging in certain lifestyle habits can place you at increased risk for oral cancer. For example, men tend to have higher rates of oral cancers than women.

Here is the short list:

· Patients age 40 and older (95% of all oral cancer cases)

· Patients age 18-39 who use tobacco, are heavy drinkers, or may have a previously diagnosed oral HPV infection.

Warning Signs:

If you experience any of the below symptoms lasting more than 7-10 days, please seek the advice of your doctor. Also, keep in mind that aside from an obviously sore throat, the below symptoms can present themselves in the absence of pain. Look out for changes that can be detected on the lips, inside the cheeks, palate, and gum tissue surrounding your teeth and

tongue.

• Reddish or whitish patches in the mouth

• A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily

• A lump or thickening on the skin lining the inside of the mouth

• Chronic sore throat or hoarseness

• Difficulty chewing or swallowing

Reducing risk:

If you do not visit the dentist regularly, you could be missing out on the benefits of early cancer detection. Currently, just over half of all those diagnosed with oral cancer survive more than five years – a statistic driven by late diagnosis – so please visit your dentist and get an oral exam at least once a year. If you are considered “high risk,” (see list above) you should be

receiving an oral exam at least every six months, if not more frequently.

Below is a short list of healthy habits you can start doing now, which may reduce your risk.

• Avoid all tobacco products

• Avoid or reduce your consumption of alcohol

• Consume more fruits and vegetables (good for everything, of course)

• Avoid excessive sun exposure that can result in cancer of the lip (using lip balm with an SPF of at least 30 can be helpful)

• Avoid exposure to environmental hazards (wood dust, formaldehyde, printing chemicals)

• Conduct a self-exam monthly so you can catch any of the symptoms listed above. Use a small hand-held mirror so you can see the back of your mouth and tongue.

• Consider coffee. While the jury is still out, some research suggests coffee may help protect the mouth from oral cancer.

Oral & Oropharyngeal Cancer Facts:

• If treated in the early stages, there is a promising 80-90% survival rate.

• Responsible for over 10,000 deaths in the US each year.

• Sixth most common cancer diagnosis.

• 10.5 per 100,000 adults are diagnosed each year.

• Mortality rate is 3x higher in males than females.

Oral cancer is serious business. Yet, it can be managed when caught early. So, do the right thing and visit your dentist regularly, and get that screening. We can show you how to screen yourself in between visits.

We look forward to seeing you at your next visit! Stay healthy!

-Dr. Tran, Dr. Nguyen, & the Nurture Dental Health team

What purpose do baby teeth serve?

7058918469 — Sun, 22 Nov 2020 19:51:06 GMT

What purpose do baby teeth serve?

We hope everyone is having a great November! This month's topic is Baby teeth! What purpose do they serve?

Dr. Tran made a video describing the purpose of baby teeth. View the << video here >> or read the transcript below:

Hi Everybody! Dr. Tran here. Today’s topic we are going to talk about baby teeth. So What are baby teeth? Baby teeth are the first on average 20 teeth you get as an infant and toddler. 10 teeth on the top, 10 teeth on the bottom.

The enamel on baby teeth when you compare them to adult teeth is a lot thinner than it is for adult teeth. What does that mean? When you get decay on baby teeth it travels a lot faster through the tooth than it would on an adult tooth. Great! Because you know how kids are when they are eating and snacking which they love to snack and they love to have frequent meals and snacks throughout the day. They also love all of the sweet stuff, which again kind of predisposes you to having more cavities. So home care and reinforcing good home care with your children is very, very important. Especially at an early age. Good eating habits like less snacking or less frequent snacking throughout the day is kind of the ideal situation. Not drinking juice is an ideal situation. Again, you don’t want to be sipping juice throughout the day. Every exposure from juice will increase your risk for getting decay or getting cavities on the teeth. But again, what purpose do baby teeth serve throughout your lifetime? As you learning to chew, learning to eat they serve a good purpose in that respect. But they actually hold the space for the adult tooth that are…the adult teeth that are going to replace them later in your life. So let’s say you get a big cavity on a baby tooth and it for whatever reason needs to be removed. If that happens earlier than the adult tooth is ready to come in a lot of times you’ll actually get very a quick collapse of space in the area.

So I have a dental model here, kind of showing a loss of space. I don’t know if you can see it here very well. But, basically, let’s say you lost this baby tooth prematurely or too early. Well now the adult tooth doesn’t have as much space to come in. So it might come in a different position than it would have normally if there was a baby tooth to hold the space for it. Sometimes with the patterns of eruption, it might come a little farther forward or a little farther inward by the tongue, or crooked, or sideways. But basically, saving the baby teeth or keeping the baby teeth as long as possible really just does set you up better off in the long term. If there’s anything we can do to keep the baby tooth, it keeps the space for the adult tooth, long story short.

Alternatively, let’s say you know what, we couldn’t keep the baby tooth, that’s fine. Another thing that we’ll do is insert an appliance like a space maintainer to help keep that space for that adult tooth until it’s ready to come in. So you don’t have as much crowding and you don’t have as much issues with spacing. So, again, another good reason to try to keep your baby teeth. But also it serves as a good first trial run before you get your adult teeth in that are to last you the rest of your lifetime.

So, hopefully that was helpful and informative for you guys thanks for listening!

What are dental implants?

7058918469 — Mon, 26 Oct 2020 20:23:56 GMT

What are dental implants?

What are dental implants?

We get this question a lot. Dental implants are a man-made root used to as an option to replace missing teeth. When we refer to dental implants, there are multiple parts involved that connect to each other. The implant fixture itself is the titanium screw that is placed into the bone where the tooth root used to be. An abutment (or connector) is what we use to connect whatever is going on top of the implant to the actual implant fixture that is in the bone. There are many ways we can restore or replace your missing teeth. For example: Implant Crowns, Implant Bridges, Implant Overdentures, Implant Full Arch Bridges.

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

This is a great question to ask your dentist. One of our methods for evaluating your specific case is by an in person appointment. Taking a 3D CBCT scan of you helps us measure the volume of bone that is present at the missing tooth site. If there is enough bone, a lot of times the implant fixture can be placed immediately. If you are numb, you generally don't feel anything. If you have anxiety for undergoing this type of procedure, we have sedation options to help you manage your dental anxiety to get you through the process. Dr. Nguyen is our Oral Surgeon who is double boarded in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery as well as Dental Anesthesia.

If there is not enough bone, sometimes a bone graft may have to be done to give Dr. Nguyen enough space to place the implant fixture. There are many types of bone grafting available.

When will I get my "teeth"?

In some cases, we are able to place a temporary restoration where the missing tooth should be until the implant fixture has healed and integrated with the surrounding bone. In other cases, we may have to wait a few months for this healing process to be completed before placing a replacement of the teeth. These situations are determined on a case by case basis.

Thank you for taking the time to read up on Dental Implants. Be sure to visit other pages on our website to see picture and video examples of other restorative/replacement options for your teeth.

Thank you for trusting us with your care!

-Dr. Vanaeyah Tran, Dr. Jackson Nguyen, & the Nurture Dental Health team

Back to School!

7058918469 — Sun, 04 Oct 2020 15:00:20 GMT

Back to school!

Hello, October! We took a small hiatus from blogging with all of the back to school and back in school preparations and changes. But we still chugging along! We are excited to share a fresh new photo of our team here at Nurture Dental Health! It was long overdue! Our team is so thrilled to welcome you back this fall and to get you and your family the healthy smiles you've always dreamed of.

We have an October gift card winner: Felicia! Thank you for being such a wonderful patient of our office! We truly cannot appreciate the trust our patient's put in our care enough.

We hope you and your family are staying safe and healthy through these changing times. We are available for all of your dental needs and look forward to seeing you at your next dental visit!

-The Team at Nurture Dental Health

July Updates

7058918469 — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 20:33:24 GMT

July Updates

We hope your July is going well and you are staying cool in this heat wave! We are indoors today and enjoying magnetic tiles with our kids. This is one of their creations. They have called it none other than the Coronavirus... We have been finding creative ways all summer to entertain and engage our children and are welcome to continued suggestions. We've really enjoyed wading in the Jordan creek just outside of the LV Zoo in the Trexler Nature Preserve.

We are happily enjoying being back in to be back in the office during our normal business hours.

Congratulations to our gift card winner, Rachel B.!!

June Updates

7058918469 — Mon, 22 Jun 2020 11:28:45 GMT

June Updates

It is so hard to believe June is here and almost gone. Things to celebrate: some return to normalcy, Lehigh county enters the Yellow Phase for the Governor's reopening plan, First Day of Summer, and Father's Day!

On June 3, 2020 the Department of Health in PA lifted all of the prior restrictions on dental offices, we are essentially allowed to return to delivering routine dental care - we are still employing extra precautions for disinfection and social distancing. The face mask order requirement to enter all places of business has not been lifted and Governor Wolf states it will remain in place into the Green phase of reopening. So, yes, even though you are coming to the dental office for dental care, we are mandated to have you wear a face mask when not receiving your actual care. We are in the process of obtaining masks with a clear window for our patients who are hearing-impaired so they won't have to delay their dental care much longer, however these masks like many things these days are also back ordered due to the high demand.

Father's day was yesterday! We wish all of our wonderful dads out there a Happy Father's Day! Dr. Nguyen celebrated with his boys playing Mario Odyssey on the Nintendo Switch, Slip N Slide outside (it was a very humid day), and family movie night at home (Disney's Honey I Blew Up the Kid, on repeat in our home).

We hope you are having a wonderful start to your summer and look forward to seeing you at your next appointment. If you ever have questions regarding your next visit, please do not hesitate to call ahead.

Stay safe! Stay healthy!

-Dr. Tran, Dr. Nguyen, and the Nurture Dental Health team

May Updates

7058918469 — Wed, 27 May 2020 01:00:03 GMT

May Updates for Nurture Dental Health

Hello to all of our wonderful patients! We are so happy to have returned to our normal office hours! The Department of Health's update on May 8, 2020: removed the restrictions for non-elective and non-emergent dentistry. We are scheduling our patients by priority of need and in a "socially distanced" manner (to allow more time in between patients to limit the number of patients in the office and timing of those entering and exiting our office).

If you have not called our office to discuss an upcoming dental appointment since May 8, we kindly ask that you call our office in advance of your next scheduled appointment to review screening questions and directions to plan for your upcoming appointment.

For public, patient, and team safety, here are some changes you can expect at your next appointment:

Face mask is required for entry into our office if you are 2 years or older.
Hand sanitizer must be used once inside our office (located to the left on our front desk counter).
A pre-appointment screening questionnaire will be given prior to seating (i.e. no symptoms of illness in your household and no travel outside of the Leigh Valley in the 14 days prior to your appointment).
We ask that you come to the office alone to help limit the number of people in the office (please leave loved ones outside of the office if possible. Take advantage of the center fountain area between the 250 and 240 buildings or walk outside in the beautiful weather.)
Please maintain 6 feet of distance between yourself and any other patient in the office at all times.
Once seated we will take your temperature with a contact-less thermometer.
We will give you a pre-procedure rinse of 3% hydrogen peroxide to rinse for 1 minute, gurgle and expectorate.

If you have any questions regarding these changes, please contact our office by phone prior to your appointment time.

Both of the photos on this blog are Dr. Tran's original photography. This weekend, Dr. Nguyen and Dr. Tran took some outdoor hikes in the area, these photos were taken along the Hassen Creek Nature Trail (Fogelsville Dam Trail).

Dr. Tran will often use the analogy of tree roots to offer an example of the roots of teeth with bone loss as the result of periodontal disease. It is important, whether or not you are seeing your dentist regularly, that you keep your oral health in tip top shape. The time you invest in keeping your teeth clean and healthy will pay off in the long term. A tree on the side of a bank or hill can suffer from erosion of the dirt around its roots over a long period of time. Eventually, with enough loss of dirt to surround those roots, the tree becomes less anchored in the ground. And in time, the tree can easily be tipped over or uprooted. The roots of teeth serve just this purpose, they are the lifeline to the nerve of the tooth and help to anchor the tooth in the bone. However, if you don't maintain your periodontal health, the inflammation reaction caused by high levels of bacteria in the oral cavity will cause destruction of the bone and the supporting tissues that anchor the roots of the teeth in the jaw bone.

We hope this serves as a conceptual analogy and cannot express enough how important it is to maintain your oral health if you choose to delay your dental checkups and hygiene appointments during this difficult time. As always, the work you put in to keep your teeth clean and healthy shows at your returns to our dental chairs. Your teeth will thank you!

If you have any signs of bleeding, pain, pus or swelling in and around your mouth, it is important to be evaluated by your dentist in a timely fashion. Early diagnosis and treatment ensures better long term outcomes.

Be safe, be well! Always feel free to call our office with any questions or concerns for your dental health or appointments. Lastly, don't forget to get outside!

Stay nurtured!

-Dr. Tran, Dr. Nguyen, and the Nurture Dental Health team

April Updates

Sat, 25 Apr 2020 03:45:58 GMT

April Updates

April has almost come to an end, and even though we have been social distancing and staying home for the majority of it - time has definitely flown right by (especially when you are home with three little boys).

Between the homeschooling, Zoom video chats, cooking, cleaning, attempts at exercising as a family, crafts and projects, where has the time gone? We can truly appreciate our family being in good health at this time and all of the togetherness has been more than we have done in what seems years - the true silver lining. We hope you and your family and friends are in good health and enjoying what you can of this time together or apart.

We truly miss our "normal schedule" with our patients. We are thinking of you all during this time. Please know that we are here for you if you are in need, especially if you are in pain or have an urgent dental need during this time. We are seeing emergencies and urgent dental care needs every week until restrictions are lifted by the Governor and the Department of Health.

We ask that all of our patients call in advance to schedule any appointment.

We ask that all of our patients call prior to entering our common waiting area at the front of the office.

Both of these requests helps for us to plan for your appointments, decrease waiting times, and improve measures for social distancing as you are within our office.

Bubble Volcano Experiment (for all ages)

In regards to the photo above, Dr. Tran and her boys made a bubble volcano this week. Very easy to do if you have these common ingredients (check out our social media pages later this week to catch the video clip of our volcano in action):

Empty soda bottle (20oz):

-1 teaspoon of dish soap

-3.5 Tablespoons of Water

-1 cup of White Vinegar

-2 drops of food coloring

Empty cup ratio (make a slurry):

1/2 Baking Soda

1/2 Water

Mix the ingredients of the bottle until they are uniform in color. Separately in the cup mix the baking soda/water slurry mixture just to make it uniform and smooth to pour into the bottle. Stand back as you pour it into the bottle. The dish soap adds a nice bubbly touch to keep the chemical reaction going. Enjoy!!

We are currently waiting it out for updates from our Governor as to when we can resume elective procedures. Please call in advance if you need us until then (or if you need to reschedule a non-urgent visit with us)! Be well! Take care!

-Dr. Tran, Dr. Nguyen, & the team at Nurture Dental Health

Office Closed until April 6

7058918469 — Thu, 19 Mar 2020 21:19:30 GMT

Our Office will be closed until April 6th

PUBLIC NOTICE TO OUR WONDERFUL PATIENTS:

In an effort to minimize the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and to protect our patients and team from increased risk of exposure:

Our office will be open by appointment for Dental Emergencies and Urgent needs ONLY - until April 6, 2020.

If you are reading this notice and the door is locked, please call our phone number: 610 – 841 - 5929 . If we do not immediately answer, please leave a message – we will call you back.

• If you are having a Dental Emergency or Infection, please call our office to schedule your appointment – DO NOT go to your primary care doctor, urgent care, or the emergency room .

• If you have recently traveled internationally or domestically in the last 14 days, please call to reschedule your appointment.

• If you have been ill with a fever or cough in the last 24 hours, you will be asked to reschedule.

• If you are 60 years or older OR have a significant medical history, we highly suggest postponing your appointment for 14-21 days.

We will be screening all patients and visitors prior to checking in. Due to the outbreak, we are limiting the examination to only those with an appointment. We ask that no family members/friends accompany the appointment (unless you are the transportation for a patient receiving sedation services or is a minor).

The U.S. Center for Disease Control has issued the following recommendations for controlling and minimizing the spread of the Coronavirus:

• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When soap and running water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand rub with at least 60% alcohol.

• Always wash hands that are visibly soiled

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Be safe, be well!

-Dr. Tran, Dr. Nguyen, & the team at Nurture Dental Health

COVID-19 Update: Notice to all of our patients

7058918469 — Tue, 17 Mar 2020 18:25:57 GMT

COVID-19 Update: Notice to all of our patients

UPDATE from March 16, 2020:

Hello to all of our wonderful patients, friends and family!

We are monitoring guidance from the CDC and other local, state, and federal authorities. As per the ADA, the county of Lehigh, and the Governor of Pennsylvania, at this time we have chosen to remain open for access to care for our patients needing necessary dental treatment and emergencies until the end of the week.

If you have a preventative or a non-urgent appointment scheduled within the next 3 weeks, we ask that you please call our office to reschedule your next visit at least 4 weeks out as you are able.

If you are having a dental emergency or pain, please call our office - DO NOT go to your local Urgent Care or Emergency Room.

We will have 24 hour access to our phones and if we do not answer your call, as always please leave a message if you wish to be called back - we will call you back.

We will continue to monitor developments and will be in touch with any additional updates as necessary. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions.

-Dr. Tran, Dr. Nguyen, & the Nurture Dental Health Team

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

UPDATE from March 15, 2020:

We are monitoring guidance from the CDC and other local, state, and federal authorities. At this time we have chosen to remain open for access to care for our patients needing necessary dental treatment and emergencies.

We want to reassure all of you that we are taking all possible precautions to avoid transmission of communicable diseases in our office. The same procedures we employ every day to protect our team and patients, including sterilization and disinfection, are highly effective against coronavirus. Our team is frequently wiping all the door handles and touch surfaces with the same disinfectants we use in the treatment rooms. We wash our hands and use medical grade hand sanitizer between every patient.

We always thoroughly clean all surfaces in treatment rooms after every patient using disinfectant used in operating rooms that kills viruses and bacteria. We always use masks, gloves, and eye protection for our team.

We regularly wipe down bathrooms and waiting area with disinfectant that kills viruses and bacteria. We have hand sanitizer and antimicrobial mouth rinses available throughout the office.

We offer prophylactic rinses with hydrogen peroxide prior to all procedures as recommended by the ADA.

We have removed all toys and magazines from our waiting room areas.

In an effort to reduce the number of people in our waiting room at the same time:

-Refrain from bringing others to your appointments unless needed as an escort for sedation or transportation purposes.

-You are welcome to call us when you park and we will let you know when your treatment room is ready.

To protect our patients and team, we kindly ask that you do not come in and call in advance to reschedule your appointment in the following scenarios:

-If yourself or anyone in your family has any cold, fever, flu-like or other relevant symptoms.

-If you believe that yourself or anyone in your family may have been exposed to COVID-19 in the US or outside of the US.

We will continue to monitor developments and will be in touch with any additional updates as necessary. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions.

-Dr. Tran, Dr. Nguyen, & the Nurture Dental Health Team

Children's Dental Health Month

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 22:22:27 GMT

Children's Dental Health Month

As we enter the last week of February, Children's Dental Health Month has come and gone in a flash!

We get asked frequently, "When should I bring my child in for their first visit?" If they have teeth, the answer is RIGHT NOW! As soon as they have teeth! Times have changed from when you went to the dentist or your parents went to the dentist as a child. We encourage you to bring your child in for a first visit at first tooth or no later than 1 year old. We strongly encourage early intervention, education and prevention - it is the foundation for establishing healthy habits for a lifetime of benefit. We pride ourselves in early education of children and parents.

As a mother of 3 young boys, I get it. Kids aren't always cooperative. Don't be afraid to bring your child in to be examined even if they are not cooperative. Early and frequent exposure to the dental office is the key to gaining trust and establish a relationship between the dentist and young child.

Among other updates for our office, we welcome Janneiry to our team as a dental assistant! We are excited to have her with us and are sure you will be meeting her soon if you haven't seen her already! Also, we are excited to finally have the stone added to our front desk reception area! Check IT out when you Check In or Check Out at our front desk!! Lastly, we have a few promotions for Zoom! whitening over the next 2 months. We currently offer take home gel with custom whitening trays and also In office Whitening with the White Speed light. Please call our office for more information: 610-841-5929

Happy New Year! 2020

websites@hibu.com (Hibu Websites) — Sun, 02 Feb 2020 04:06:25 GMT

Happy New Year! Welcome 2020!

The month of January marks the one year work anniversary of our Hygienist, Breanna! She has been a tremendous asset to our practice over the last year and has essentially transformed our practice in more ways than we can count. She has been described by a few of our patients as having "Angel hands." Thank you for your hard work and dedication to our office.

We have grown in leaps and bounds in only the last year in so many ways. We opened our doors in April of 2018 and are on our way to the two year mark of our dental office. We have welcomed Mercedes to our team as our EFDA (Expanded Function Dental Assistant). As a certified EFDA, Mercedes carries out a wide variety of procedures in our office for our patients. So if you haven't met her yet, you are likely to meet her soon at a future appointment. Mercedes has over 20 years of experience in the dental field. She has been such a blessing to our team and patients.

Other things you may be aware of by this time in the year. Two of the major employers in the Lehigh Valley have changed their insurance carriers for dental this year. Check with your HR (Human Resources) department or employer to see if these changes may have affected your dental benefits or insurance carrier for the year. Lehigh Valley Health Network changed from Populytics to Delta Dental - this is quite a big change. OAA (Orthopedic Associates of Allentown), our neighbors in the 250 building of the Integrated Health Campus (IHC), changed from Guardian to United Concordia. If you have been quoted treatment plans in 2019 and had a change in insurance plans, this will change your estimated out of pocket cost (copay). So be sure to double check with us prior to your next visit. Best news of all, we are in network with all of those insurance carriers ( United Concordia, Guardian, and Delta Dental ). We strive to keep your dental care affordable and to help you best utilize your insurance benefits. Please feel free to reach out to our team to make the most of your insurance benefits!

The picture above is one of last cases we delivered for the year of 2019 and very symbolic of our practice. It is a Fixed Full Arch Bruxzir Implant Bridge. It is made of the strongest porcelain and supported and retained by dental implants that were placed by our oral surgeon who is double board certified in Dental Anesthesiology and Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Jackson Nguyen. This was a joint effort between Dr. Nguyen and myself, start to finish and a great way to finish out our year. We are very happy and proud to offer this service to our patients all in the same practice and between just two providers, which is a rarity in the Lehigh Valley and surrounding Allentown area. Families are stronger together and that is just what we are and what we try to continue to exemplify in our practice and our services we provide our patients as a husband and wife team. We integrate our specialties for the benefit of our patients and hope to continue to do so for many years to come.

In closing, while reflecting on 2019, we have had our best year yet. A very heartfelt thank you goes out to all of our patients that trust us with their care. Thank you so much for your support this year. We hope to continue to take care of you and your family and friends for years to come. Stay nurtured!

-Dr. Vanaeyah Tran,

Cosmetic, Family, and General Dentist

2019 in Review

7058918469 — Mon, 16 Dec 2019 04:34:52 GMT

2019 in Review

What a year 2019 has been for our office.

We continue and always will strive to offer the latest and greatest to our patients. Our office is very well equipped for a wide variety of needs as we are a husband and wife team, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon and General, Cosmetic, & Family dentist.

One of the biggest changes:

We have implemented an Itero scanner in our office to take records of our patients. The Itero scanner is an intra-oral scanner that takes thousands of pictures of the inside of the mouth within a few seconds without having to use goopy impressions (you are welcome). We can use our Itero intra-oral scanner to show you simulations of how your teeth might look if trying to straighten your teeth or correct a traumatic bite with clear aligners. The clear aligner companies we currently work with are: Invisalign, Sure Smile, and Reveal.

Our Itero scanner also allows us to also track changes in your teeth at subsequent visits. If you are clencher or grinder, you will definitely be able to see changes in your teeth if you are not wearing a nightguard or similar appliance to protect your teeth. Clenching or grinding your teeth could also be an indication of a larger underlying problem.

When you clench or grind your teeth, you will frequently cause your teeth to be hypersensitive from the traumatic occlusion (or traumatic bite). You can also cause portions or pieces of your teeth to break at the cusp tips or near the gumline, what we call abfractions.

Please call our office to schedule if any of these dental issues may be a current need for you to be addressed: 610-841-5929. We would be happy to schedule a consultation to discuss any of your dental needs!

We are excited to enter the new year and are so happy for all of the support we have had from all of our patients, friends and family this year. It takes a village. We hope we continue to be your resource for dental education. We always welcome requests for blog topics going forward.

From our family to yours have a very happy holiday season and Happy New Year!

-Dr. Vanaeyah Tran & Dr. Jackson Nguyen

Foods that cause tooth decay

7058918469 — Sun, 27 Oct 2019 16:33:05 GMT

Foods that cause tooth decay

It's that time of year again! The Fall into Winter seasons are upon us, and with them, all of our favorite foods! This blog topic is to educate and share advice on how to best care for your teeth and prevent tooth decay while still enjoying your favorite foods around this time of year.

I get these questions all of the time from my patients: What causes tooth decay? Or, "I'm brushing and flossing regularly, why am I still getting cavities?"

When it comes to tooth decay, it’s important to know the main culprit – acid. Acid is what eats

away at our enamel and causes cavities.

Acid can enter our mouths in one of two ways: either directly through what we eat (citrus fruits, or acidic foods

for example), or as a byproduct when oral bacteria consume the sugars/carbohydrates that we eat.

Ultimately, a simple way to identify foods that cause tooth decay is to ask whether it’s acidic or

sweet/starchy.

Acidic foods include things like citrus fruits, tomatoes, vinegar, kombucha and sour candy.

Sweet/starchy foods include things like candy, soda or sugar-sweetened beverages, fruit, bread,

cereal, pasta and crackers.

The longer these things interact with your teeth, the greater the chance for tooth decay to

occur.

For example, sipping on soda throughout the day, or chewing a gooey caramel treat, increases

the amount of sugar that coat your teeth. Bacteria love to feast on this sugar, creating an acidic

environment and putting your teeth at risk for decay.

The more frequently you snack or sip, the more exposure time to your teeth. It takes time for your saliva to buffer these acids to help protect your teeth from acid destruction/demineralization.

Foods That Cause Tooth Decay

To help protect your teeth against tooth decay:

- Reduce your consumption of sweets and refined starches

- Enjoy acidic foods in moderation or as part of a meal

- Decrease or eliminate your consumption of soda or sugar-sweetened beverages

- Swish with water after meals and snacks

- Maintain good oral hygiene to brush away plaque buildup (floss at least once a day

and brush twice a day)

So the take home message: go ahead and enjoy your Halloween candy, but eat it fast and rinse with water and brush afterwards (don't let any of the sugary candy linger around on your teeth).

And, as always, make sure to visit us regularly so we can remove tartar buildup and assess for

early signs of decay. Most problems are easier to treat when they are small.

We hope you found this blog post informative, and as always, would love to hear your feedback for how to improve ourselves for your benefit. Please always feel free to use our office as your resource for all of your dental related questions and concerns.

Any topics you would like to hear more about, please give us your feedback for future blog posts! Please like and follow our social media accounts to stay informed of updates from our team and giveaways! We do a monthly gift card drawing for all of our active patients who support Nurture Dental Health.

Facebook @ NurtureDentalHealth

Instagram @ NurtureDentalHealth <---We have an active promotion for our Instagram followers, check us out here!

Twitter @ Nurture_Dental

Thanks for stopping by our blog page!

Let our family care for your family. Stay informed, stay nurtured!

-Vanaeyah Tran, DMD, co-owner of the practice Nurture Dental Health and Dentist

Why you should have a cleaning at least two times a year

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 04:50:02 GMT

Why you should have your teeth cleaned at least two times a year:

Do you ever notice when you have gone too long in between brushing your own teeth or have gone too long between your professional teeth cleanings? Your teeth begin to take on stains more easily, it feels like it becomes harder to “get your teeth clean” when you brush on your own at home. The teeth feel more rough from all of the buildup. This is all caused by the bacteria you have in your mouth and your day to day activities, the foods you eat, and how well you are able to clean your own teeth on a daily basis in between your dental professional cleanings in our office.

We all have natural bacteria inside of our mouths and G.I. System. Every time you eat, any food that is left behind in your mouth it gets “eaten” or metabolized by the bacteria that are naturally found in your mouth. The bacteria secrete toxins and acids that irritate your gingival tissues and can cause your teeth to become demineralized (the start of decay). For the purpose of this blog topic, we are going to focus on the affects bacteria have on the periodontal tissues rather than tooth decay. The bacteria also secrete a multi-cellular matrix called "plaque" or "biofilm" that helps them stick together in a large group and stay stuck to your teeth. Think of it as them “building a home” in between and all over your teeth to keep them in place. It feels like a sticky film over the surface of your teeth that you can literally scrape off with your fingernail, a toothpick, a piece of floss, or a toothbrush. It is the physical action of brushing and flossing that removes this sticky plaque from your teeth and decreases the overall amount of bacteria left in your mouth. When that plaque has been undisturbed long enough, it becomes very hard or calcified (due to the calcium that is naturally found in your saliva). This is the point where we call it “calculus”. Calculus cannot be easily removed with a toothbrush or floss. You need special instruments or “scalers” as we call them in Dentistry to remove these calcified plaques (Calculus).

Some bacteria prefer or are able to live above the gum level where they are exposed to oxygen. A different breed or species of bacteria actually prefer to live below the gum line where there is little to no oxygen, these are called anaerobic bacteria. The bacteria that live below the gum line can also cause you to get buildup on the root surfaces of your teeth below the gum line. Guess what? Your toothbrush can never easily reach these surfaces of your teeth. A dental hygienist or dentist can reach these surfaces with the instruments we use during your cleanings. This is also the reason why you might hear us recommend a device like a Waterpik or Waterflosser. They actually propel water in a pulsating manner to dislodge biofilm and food that has accumulated below the gum level where your toothbrush is unable to reach and clean.

Your teeth are held in the bones of your jaws by what is called periodontal ligaments that extend in all directions from the teeth roots to the bone. Gum/gingival tissue is the pink tissue that covers the bone and circumferentially around the neck/root of every tooth. We call these tissues that support the teeth the periodontal tissue.

Gingivitis is when the gum/gingival tissues become red and inflamed due to the immune response of your tissues to these foreign invaders (bacteria) - it is an inflammatory reaction in response to the offending bacteria in your mouth. The more bacteria, the more plaque and stronger the inflammatory reaction of your body. The bacteria in your mouth secrets toxins and irritants, this is what causes your immune system to react as bacteria are “foreign” and not part of your body.

Gingivitis left untreated can progress to periodontitis or periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is initiated with the destruction of the surrounding bone due to the continued inflammatory reaction by your body to the ever present bacteria. When you loose enough bone around the teeth, they become loose because there is less hard tissue to support the teeth. All of the inflammation causes the gingival tissues to become puffy and less attached or loosely connected to the root surfaces of the teeth. This process actually allows more bacteria to inhabit the periodontal pocket around the teeth. If you have sat through a comprehensive periodontal evaluation in a dental office, you might be aware that we actually measure the health of periodontal tissues in a few ways. We measure how deep the pockets of tissue are around your teeth. 1-3mm is considered healthy. 4-6mm is considered earlier stages of periodontal disease. 7mm or greater is considered severe periodontal disease, it is at these stages that it becomes the hardest to treat you. Treating the disease in its earlier stages ensures the best outcome. We also measure how far the gumline has receeded from its normal position in what we consider healthy periodontal tissue.

Having regular cleanings throughout the year keeps bacteria and buildup (plaque and calculus) in check. It decreases the concentration of bacteria in your mouth. It gives your periodontal tissue time to heal from the inflammation caused by the offending bacteria and their toxins. It helps us look for any problems or potential problems before they get bad or begin to cause you pain. It also helps to keep your breath smelling fresh (who wouldn't appreciate that?). Additionally, we use this examination time to do your oral cancer screening - again, earliest detection is the key to successful treatment outcomes.

Periodontal disease is fairly common in the United States. Truth (Tooth) be told, periodontal disease is preventable, it can be maintained, but most importantly, it can be avoided if you plan ahead and do your best work on a consistent basis when you go home from our office. The work you do and put in to cleaning your own teeth ensures your best chances for healthy gums and teeth over your lifetime. Don't rush when you brush! Flossing is an important in your home care regimen as it access surfaces your toothbrush bristles physically cannot reach (more on this topic in a future blog post to be continued). When you clean your own teeth, you will inevitably "miss a spot"...or three/more. That is where we come in as the other set of eyes, educated in identifying where you need extra help in reaching those hard to get to places on all surfaces of your teeth. Where you fall short on cleaning your teeth, we can help debride those areas of your mouth. You may sometimes be put on a more frequent cleaning appointment schedule than every six months, depending on how much difficulty you have in cleaning your own teeth or your susceptibility to developing periodontal disease. The average person benefits from having their teeth cleaned at LEAST every six months (or less) as most research shows. I always tell my patients, think of how your kitchen sink or bathroom would look if you cleaned it less than once every six months.

Facebook @ NurtureDentalHealth

Instagram @ NurtureDentalHealth <---We have an active promotion for our Instagram followers, check us out here!

Twitter @ Nurture_Dental

Thanks for stopping by our blog page!

Let our family care for your family. Stay informed, stay nurtured!

-Vanaeyah Tran, DMD, co-owner of the practice Nurture Dental Health and Dentist

Back to School & your Child's Teeth

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 03:27:29 GMT

Back to School & your Child's Teeth

As we prepare to send all of our kids back to school, I thought I would focus on the topic of baby teeth and how they are different than adult teeth.

You may ask your dentist or other dentists: "When is the best time to bring my child to the dentist?" You may get many responses, but at our office, we believe the best time to bring children in to see the dentist for the first time is when they get their FIRST TOOTH. Some may not agree with us, but studies show that children that visit the dentist earlier in their life are less likely to need as much dental work later in their life. This is because we use our dental health exams to evaluate the developing dentition (teeth) and look for any issues that could become a bigger problem if left untreated. This time is also important to educate the patient and the caregiver (parent) with what to look for and avoid to encourage healthy habits (we also have a lot of interesting tips for home-care). More often than not, finding and treating a dental problem earlier is a lot easier than when it becomes bigger or larger. Prevention and education is the goal of dental visits at a very young age and is truly the foundation for a healthy future for all of their future teeth.

While babies, toddlers, and young children are generally not very cooperative at a young age, most warm up to seeing the dentist in subsequent visits; especially if your child has a fear of the unknown or "Stranger danger". We have found that it is helpful when you bring your child in with you at your own or an older sibling's dental cleaning visit. In this way, they get to "see" before they "do" for their own appointment. We have to develop a relationship with your child in order for us to trust us. We like to call their first visits with us "happy visits" as they lay the foundation for future visits with us. We have some pretty cool prizes to pick from and I take requests for balloon animals and figurines to make for my patients.

Baby (deciduous or primary) teeth are different from Adult (permanent) teeth. Baby teeth are more vulnerable to decay because their enamel is thinner than adult teeth. There is physically less tooth structure that decay would have to travel through to reach the nerve (pulp) inside of the teeth which can cause pain and infection once this process occurs. Dental decay is the most common, preventable disease in children. It is also one of the most common reasons kids miss school. Children generally need help to clean their teeth until their hand skills have improved. I normally tell my parents of my patients that they should brush their child's teeth until they have good hand writing.

Why save (or fix) baby teeth that have become decayed? Baby teeth save the space for the future adult teeth that replace them. If baby teeth are lost earlier than their developing adult teeth are ready to replace them, the space for the adult teeth could be compromised or lost as the body generally tries to close spaces in the mouth. Once the space is lost between the baby teeth, this could cause eruption issues for the adult teeth that plan to replace the baby teeth. Not all baby teeth are replaced by adult teeth at the same time. Some of the baby teeth are not shed or replaced by adult teeth until 11 or 12 years old. In some instances, the adult tooth fails to form and therefore the baby tooth may remain (or need to remain) in place.

Instructions for home care: Any teeth that are in contact should be flossed. All teeth on all surfaces should brushed for 2 minutes 2 times a day with fluoride toothpaste. Children less than 3 years old should use about the size of a "grain of rice" of toothpaste on their toothbrush. Children between 3-6 years old should brush with a "Pea-sized" amount of fluoride toothpaste. Children older than 6 years old can use a slightly larger amount of fluoride toothpaste.

There are a lot of articles about fluoride, please always feel free to ask us about why fluoride toothpaste and fluoride varnish is good for preventing decay and inhibiting bacteria in the mouth. Fluoride varnish is also very useful to help when your teeth become sensitive to prevent sensitivity. We plan to discuss this topic in our blog in the future.

In our featured photo for this post, I took a photo of what our team members came up with as an idea to demonstrate to a young child what it would be like to stand in our 3D-CBCT (Cone beam computed tomography) machine to have their bite wing x-rays taken so they wouldn't have to bite on an intraoral sensor which can be uncomfortable for tiny mouths or those with bony tori that protrude on the tongue side of their jaw. I thought it was very creative and I was very proud of our team members trying their best to find a way to relate to our young patient. Also, it looks pretty funny. We are a fun bunch and we enjoy taking care of and educating our patients.

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Let our family care for your family. Stay informed, stay nurtured!

-Vanaeyah Tran, DMD, co-owner of the practice Nurture Dental Health and Dentist