Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Cosmetic Dentistry Fairfield CT: Are Porcelain Veneers Expensive?
Everyone desires a set of healthy teeth. If you give a close look at people you find on your television sets, you will find everyone from fashion models to presidents sporting a perfect set of white teeth. Are you unhappy by the way your teeth look when you smile? If so, then porcelain veneers maybe the way for you. Porcelain veneers are used to give a natural look to the teeth that are deformed, discolored or crooked. Porcelain veneers are available as wafer-thin casings that cover your front teeth to make them look as natural as any other teeth.
In order to get a proper fit, a dentist is required to file the existing teeth to make space for the veneer. Even though porcelain veneers give a lot of benefits, these can not be considered cheap and their price may vary from place to place. Porcelain veneers are suitable fixing for both, an individual tooth and an entire set of teeth to give you a perfect smile.
The cost of Porcelain veneer varies greatly depending on the location where the procedure is done. Although the cost of porcelain veneers in most of the places remains around $1500 per porcelain veneer, there could be differences exceeding usual numbers. While a meager $500 is charged for porcelain veneers at some places, figure as high as $3000 is known to be quoted for a porcelain veneer in other high end places.
While it is understood that the cost of porcelain veneers varies greatly, it should be noted that cheaper, probably low-grade options are best left alone. The life of Porcelain veneers is usually around 10 years and would go a long way if cared and maintained properly. Investing in a cheap alternative is never an option as it would not only give you doubtful quality of porcelain veneers but also may not have the desired finishing touch.
One must also be prudent to get the services of a well qualified dentist as one would want to have a right fit from the first time only. Fitting porcelain veneers is a delicate process, and opting for an incompetent dentist would increase the chances of an irregular fit and one would have no option but to go back again and again until he/she gets a perfect fit.
Quality of a porcelain veneer is also a deciding factor in asserting the cost of a veneer. Low quality porcelain veneers are non durable and break easily whereas high quality modern porcelain veneers can survive for as long as 15 years without giving any problems what so ever.
Not only material but the quality of work done in a veneer is also an important factor for the cost of a porcelain veneer. After taking a tooth impression, a porcelain veneer is sent to the laboratory to be fabricated. Here, it is hand made and then sent back to the dentist. A good quality work done on a porcelain veneer would guarantee an immediate perfect fit, whereas a low quality work is unlikely to work.
The easiest way to choose the best place for getting a porcelain veneer is to look around your locality. Better still, if you already have a dentist go for him as he would know your previous dental history and is better able to suggest an efficient treatment.
For More information on Veneers call Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr Mariana Conant at 203-255-5999 today for a no obligation consultation.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
We’ll change how you feel about going to the dentist Fairfield CT.
Dentist Fairfield CT Accepting New Patients
What do you look for when choosing a dentist? Credentials? Experience? Caliber of care? The recommendation of a friend or loved one? And what about that intangible feel-good factor? If you dont associate feeling good with going to the dentist, we would like to change that.
Dentist Fairfield CT Accepting New Patients
"Affordable Family & Cosmetic Dentistry serving Fairfield county"
At Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, ( dentist fairfield ct ) were committed to making you feel comfortable and exceeding your expectations. From progressive disease prevention and restoring timeworn teeth to designing smiles that dazzle, we do it all with exceptional skill and attention to detail. Were passionate about giving our patients so many new reasons to smile! The fact is, your dental health impacts almost every part of your life. Thats why you deserve a dentist who is compassionate and dedicated to the long-term health of your teeth and the aesthetic beauty of your smile. ( dentist fairfield ct ) You deserve an outstanding dental office like Dr. Mariana Conant and her staff provides.
Dentist Fairfield CT Accepting New Patients
At Dentist Fairfield CT, Dr. Mariana Conant & Staff care about your comfort, health and security. Our philosophy is built on our concern for patient comfort first, before procedures are even discussed. Our Fairfield County dental office offers consultations that allow all the time you need to ask questions and thoroughly understand the procedures were recommending and the outcomes you can expect.
Our office ( Dentist Fairfield CT ) has become a leading dental practice in the Fairfield are for one simple reason: we care about you, and we care about quality. Only then can the very best treatments follow.
Cosmetic Dentistry offered by Dr. Mariana Conant & Staff has helped built this practice over the past five years on this type of dedicated commitment to personal attention and the most advanced dental care. We feel we are one of the best choices for your familys dental needs. ( Dentist Fairfield CT ) We also offer dental implants, porcelain veneers, dental crowns, tooth whitening, cleanings, invisible braces and all that modern dentistry has to offer. ( Dentist Fairfield CT ) Offering cost effective dental implant cost for people suffering with dentures.
We’ll change how you feel about going to the dentist.
What do you look for when choosing a dentist? Credentials? Experience? Caliber of care? The recommendation of a friend or loved one? And what about that intangible “feel-good” factor? If you don’t associate feeling good with going to the dentist, we’d like to change that.
"Affordable Family & Cosmetic Dentistry serving Fairfield county"
At Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re committed to making you feel comfortable and exceeding your expectations. From progressive disease prevention and restoring timeworn teeth to designing smiles that dazzle, we do it all with exceptional skill and attention to detail. We’re passionate about giving our patients so many new reasons to smile! The fact is, your dental health impacts almost every part of your life. That’s why you deserve a dentist who is compassionate and dedicated to the long-term health of your teeth and the aesthetic beauty of your smile. You deserve an outstanding dentist like Dr. Mariana Conant.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a way to achieve a million dollar smile, without having to empty the bank account. Usually, the actually procedure to apply the veneers can be accomplished in a lunch hour. Not only does it make teeth look brighter and more even, the porcelain also adds a layer of protection against stains and cavities.
Aesthetic Purposes
Porcelain veneers are no substitute for good dental hygiene or other major dental problems. But, aesthetically, veneers will give anyone a smile that is enviable in stars and other public figures. Veneers will enhance a smile and improve self-esteem by correcting flaws that keep a person from displaying their pearly whites. Veneers can cover up:
Discoloration
Crooked teeth
Chipped teeth
Gaps in teeth
Veneers are applied to the front of all the teeth that are normally exposed when a person smiles or talks. It is not a cap that covers the entire tooth; but, veneers have been credited with drastically improving a patientAâAEAâ¢s appearance. Basically, it gives the individual the confidence to smile and display an equally dazzling personality.
Durability of Porcelain Veneers
While veneers can be made from other materials, porcelain is the preferred substance, because it is more durable. Porcelain actually adheres to the natural tooth, essentially becoming part of the tooth. If taken care of properly, veneers should last about 15 years. In some cases, patients have not had veneers replaced until 20-30 years later.
Although coffee, tea and juices will no longer stain the teeth covered by porcelain veneers, they are not indestructible. If they are to last, itAâAEAâ¢s important not to chew ice, use teeth to pry something open, or grind teeth at night. For the latter problem, check with the dentist about solutions to protect a smile, so your pearly whites will give a sparkling smile for years to come.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a way to achieve a million dollar smile, without having to empty the bank account. Usually, the actually procedure to apply the veneers can be accomplished in a lunch hour. Not only does it make teeth look brighter and more even, the porcelain also adds a layer of protection against stains and cavities.
Aesthetic Purposes
Porcelain veneers are no substitute for good dental hygiene or other major dental problems. But, aesthetically, veneers will give anyone a smile that is enviable in stars and other public figures. Veneers will enhance a smile and improve self-esteem by correcting flaws that keep a person from displaying their pearly whites. Veneers can cover up:
• Discoloration
• Crooked teeth
• Chipped teeth
• Gaps in teeth
Veneers are applied to the front of all the teeth that are normally exposed when a person smiles or talks. It is not a cap that covers the entire tooth; but, veneers have been credited with drastically improving a patient’s appearance. Basically, it gives the individual the confidence to smile and display an equally dazzling personality.
Durability of Porcelain Veneers
While veneers can be made from other materials, porcelain is the preferred substance, because it is more durable. Porcelain actually adheres to the natural tooth, essentially becoming part of the tooth. If taken care of properly, veneers should last about 15 years. In some cases, patients have not had veneers replaced until 20-30 years later.
Although coffee, tea and juices will no longer stain the teeth covered by porcelain veneers, they are not indestructible. If they are to last, it’s important not to chew ice, use teeth to pry something open, or grind teeth at night. For the latter problem, check with the dentist about solutions to protect a smile, so your pearly whites will give a sparkling smile for years to come.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Gum Disease Treatment Center In Fairfield CT
If you’re currently suffering from a toothache there are natural toothache remedies that you can apply this very second that can give you near instant pain relief.
You can get rid of your toothache pain with the aid of household ingredients so you don’t have to go foraging at the pharmacy in the middle of the night for the right medication for you. In fact, you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your own home because most of these ingredients are probably available at your fingertips as we speak and are just an arm length away.
So why do our teeth ache?
Why now of all times?, it’s probably the middle of the night and you’re furiously looking for a cure to take the edge off the pain and aspirin isn’t quite cutting it for you.
Believe it or not, toothache was an eventual process that built up gradually and it wasn’t until such time that infection finally hit the pulp tissue and the nerve that the pain signal was finally transmitted to the brain.
This didn’t happen overnight. It took weeks, months or even years for the tooth to become ravaged by bacteria that finally contributed to the toothache you are now experiencing.
Those suffering from a toothache usually have an infection of some kind which came from poor gum health.
According to the FDA Consumer Magazine, the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults over the age of 35 is poor gum health (periodontal disease), incredibly it is estimated that a whopping 75% of this group have some type of gum disease and that 60% knew nothing about proper dental care with 39% not attending the dentist regularly.
It’s no wonder why our society so readily accept tooth loss as an inevitable part of life when it doesn’t have to be. There are remote tribes across the globe that don’t have access to high sugar, refined foods or modern dental treatment yet they still enjoy life with all of their teeth intact and in perfect health. We were meant to have all of our teeth to last us a lifetime yet we except tooth loss as a normal part of life. We should have our teeth long after our 40’s and 50’s and we can do this through proper dental hygiene and education.
Here are some preventative techniques that will allow you to keep your teeth for longer:
Chew sugar free gum immediately following your “last” meal for the day. Don’t chew sugar free gum after every meal as this may cause flatulence and explosive diarrhea in reaction to the artificial sweetener, Sorbitol. Having just one piece of gum for the day allows you to produce enough saliva to reduce the tooth eroding bacteria population already feeding off the last meal you just ate.
Get more Vitamin D in your body, this helps to strengthen and fortify your bones.
You can get Vitamin D naturally from a good dose of sunlight for 30 minutes or from food such as egg yolks, milk, cheese and yogurts.
Now that you have some tips that will help to keep your teeth in tip top shape and in perfect working order, here is a great toothache cure to take care of the right here and now:
This should give you some relief in the next 10 to 20 minutes.
Chances are you probably have this in your kitchen.
Place a piece of onion big enough to cover the affected tooth. Leave on the tooth for 30 minutes to help kill bacteria and give pain relief.
If the tooth allows for it, cut off a bite sized piece of onion and chew it for 2 to 3 minutes. This will release the antiseptic qualities of the onion and help the pain to subside.
If you want to find out how you can permanently put an end to your toothache pain while reversing the damaging effects to your teeth over the years, please go to: www.thefairfielddentist.com
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Want to better Understanding Toothaches and how to cure them?

In the dental world, toothaches can include such things as cavities, infections or abscess in the teeth or gums, debris that has been trapped between the teeth and gums, and trauma to the face, teeth, or the jaw. Sometimes, toothaches can result from medical conditions and have nothing to do with dental. In most cases, if the problem goes without being checked, it can lead to serious trouble and maybe even become a life threatening situation.
Normally, when you have a toothache, you’ll experience tremendous pain. The pain will stem from the affected tooth or the jaw, and you’ll know it almost immediately. It will start out to be a throbbing pain, then continue to get worse and worse until you get it treated. If you wait too long and allow the infection to spread throughout the tooth, you’ll end up having to get it pulled or cut out.
Anytime you start to experience a toothache, you shouldn’t hesitate to make an appointment with your dentist to have it checked. Sometimes, getting an appointment when your tooth starts hurting is easier said than done. Even though you may be able to use certain products to stop the pain, the pain will always come back until you get the problem fixed. A toothache will always come back, until you get the tooth taken care of.
If you visit your dentist in time and he catches the problem early, he may be able to save your tooth. Normally, this will result in a filling, crown, or root canal, although you won’t have to have the tooth removed. Dentists always look to save teeth, as they don’t like to remove a tooth unless they absolutely have to. If the tooth has become abscessed, the dentist will put you on antibiotics such as penicillin until the infection has subsided enough to remove the tooth.
Throughout our lives, most of us will experience the pain and agony of a toothache at some point. A toothache can be the worst pain you have ever felt in your life, especially if you are feeling the pain of an abscess. If you’ve never had a toothache, you should consider yourself lucky. Those who have had toothaches though, will tell you that the pain is something you never want to experience - it will make you feel as if your whole world is falling apart.
Looking for more dental information contact Dr. Mariana Conant at 203-255-5999 or visit our website at www.1305Dental.com.
Monday, August 17, 2009
No Reason To Fear the Dentist! Modern Technology Makes It Pain Free!
http://www.1305Dental.com, Years ago, and for many decades, most folks feared going to the dentist for fear of pain. Those days are over because the modern day Gentle Dentist in Fairfield, CT. They are aware of peoples fears. No matter how long it has been since you have been for a visit to a Family Dentistry office, they now offer a variety of pain-free options, such as sedation dentistry. So, if you have been procrastinating for years, you can finally make your Gentle Dentist in Fairfield, CT appointment and rest assured there will be no pain.
Located on the Post Road, at 1305, suite 200, the practice of Mariana Conant, DDS, is where you can get anything from General Family Dentistry to Cosmetic Dentistry utilizing the latest and greatest advances, such as the da Vinci Studios veneers which are only offered by the top two percent of dentists. This Gentle Dentist in Fairfield, CT will be able to serve you whether you drive up from Southport or Westport, or even over from Bridgeport, Stratford, Trumbull, Easton, and Shelton.
Visit the offices of Dr. Conant she will put you in a most relaxed state for whatever your dentistry needs are. You can have sedation dentistry for a big job, and perhaps you may just need a teeth cleaning, exam, and x-rays after many years without a visit, and there won’t be any other work needed…you never know…but it’s good to take care of your teeth! Don’t let childhood fears of dentists or an experience from twenty years ago make you fearful of the Dentist. You will be completely at ease and will certainly enjoy a pain-free experience! This in NOT you Father’s dentist office and these aren’t the 60’s or 70’s.
You can visit www.1305dental.com and see the wonderful smiles in the photo gallery and read all about these award winning procedures from Dr. Mariana Conant and all her office has to offer Southern Connecticut. You will wonder why you waited so long once you visit the office. You will feel so relieved, as you exclaim, “I didn’t feel a thing!” So, get ready to catch up on all of that needed dental work and remember; The Gentle Dentist of Fairfield, Dr. Mariana Conant. Call 203-255-5999 to make an appointment today
Monday, July 20, 2009
Advice On How To Get Dazzling Teeth From Fairfield CT Dentists
http://www.1305dental.com/ - Fairfield Ct Cosmetic Dental office says most people nowadays are getting attracted to tooth whitening products because they want to have a million dollar
smile just like the celebrities seen on television. If you want your teeth to become whiter and more
dazzling, you can add whitening toothpastes into your personal dental care kit. If you want to use whitening toothpastes, don’t forget to check if it still contains fluoride and other ingredients that fight and prevent plaque and tartar. However, a lot of whitening toothpaste users claim that these whitening products didn’t really do much in changing the color of their teeth. The yellowing of the teeth is actually a natural phenomenon. As a person gets older, his or her teeth becomes yellowish.
If you are not satisfied with the color of your teeth, the best way is to visit your dentist first and
consult him or her about your dilemma. Your dentist will tell you about the effectiveness of
over-counter-products or they may even offer to give you professional treatment.
Most celebrities actually prefer to undergo professional teeth whitening treatment because that
way, their unique needs can be met. Be very careful in purchasing over-the-counter teeth whitening products because some of these may contain bleaching agents that can actually damage your mouth and gums. In addition to that, do follow the instructions strictly to avoid experiencing adverse side effects.
The Teeth’s Nemesis:
Sugar Perhaps everybody has gone through a stage in
their childhood when they would constantly hear their
elders warning them about the evils of eating too much
sugary sweets and candies. And those warnings are true
indeed; eating sugary sweets and candies is a major
cause of tooth decay.
However, it might helpful for you to know that its not
just about the amount of sugar that you eat - it also
involves when and how you eat sugary stuffs that
determine the health of your teeth.
When you drink sodas or eat sugary foods throughout
the day, the enamel of your teeth becomes constantly
exposed to acids. Cough drops, hard candies, and
breath mints are just some examples of the harmful
sugary sweets that dissolve in your mouth slowly.
Dental professionals and experts suggest a 3-hour
break in between taking food and drinks that contain
sugar. Starchy or sugary foods eaten with a full meal
is said to be less harmful to the teeth compared to
being eaten alone because the increased production of
saliva helps wash away the bacteria and sugar.
Eating sweet and sugary foods before sleeping is
perhaps the most damaging thing one can do to his or
her teeth because one does not produce a lot of saliva
when he or she is asleep.
If you want to have a health set of teeth yet you
can’t seem to cut out sweets from your diet, you can
try some of these tips to help you achieve your goal:
eat carbohydrates with a meal, brush your teeth
directly after eating, rinse your mouth thoroughly
with mouthwash or water, chew sugarless gum, don’t eat
sugary foods and sweets between meals, eat non-sugary
foods (cheese, popcorn, yogurt, raw veggies) as
snacks. In a nutshell, achieving and maintaining a healthy set of teeth may not be as easy as 123 but with enough determination and commitment to your personal dental
care routine, you will surely have the smile that you’ve been wanting ever since.
For more information visit Dr. Mariana Conant's website at http://www.1305dental.com/ or call the office at 203-255-59999
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Affordable Dental Implants Fairfield CT, What you need to know!
Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or Periodontist - a specialist of the gums and supporting bone. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!
Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable and will last many years, but on occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.
Reasons for dental implants:
- Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
- Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
- Restore a patient’s confident smile.
- Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.
- Restore or enhance facial tissues.
- Support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable.
What does getting dental implants involve?
The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.
X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself onto the bone for up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.
After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete. After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.
You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new implant.
If your looking for more information on dental implants contact Dr. Conant's Office located in Fairfield, CT . at 203-255-5999 or visit us online at http://www.1305dental.com/
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Fairfield Dentist Explains Dealing With Infections
If you go to the dentist before the extraction experienced swelling of the face, swollen gums, pain in your teeth under light pressure, or bleeding around the extraction site, then you may already have an infection. If you indeed have an infection before you get the tooth treated, the dentist will prescribe you antibiotics to use following treatment. If you have a really bad abscess, you’ll need to use antibiotics to treat the infection before the dentist will remove the tooth.
In some cases, people develop an infection after the extraction, even though they may not have been infected beforehand. The reason for this, is bacteria. Following an extraction, bacteria will be more alive in the mouth than ever before. With the extraction site being exposed, the bacteria will be able to get into the site. This can lead to an infection due to the site being exposed and the fact that you are unable to use mouthwash or brush during the first 24 - 48 hours. Not being able to sterilize your mouth means that you are unable to kills the germs responsible for bacteria.
After extractions, the first sign of infection is renewed bleeding. This normally occurs around 48 hours after the extraction. Even though it normally isn’t severe, you should still call your dentist and make an appointment to be seen. Your dentist will be able to stop the bleeding and give you some antibiotics and other prescriptions that will fix the problem.
Some dentists prefer to give patients antibiotics before they will do any type of extraction. Although you may not have an abscess, most dentists prefer to get rid of the infection before they start doing their work. They do this because they know the local anesthesia won’t work all that good with infections, and it may take them a lot of work and a lot of medicine to numb the area that you have the infection in.
In the event that the tooth has to be removed and the dentist simply cannot wait a few days, it is possible to get you numbed. Although it will take quite a bit of medicine to numb the area, it can be done. Sometimes, dentists will choose to use an IV sedation or laughing gas, in the event that local numbing doesn’t help. An IV sedation will normally put you to sleep or knock you out, so that the dentist can remove the tooth that is causing you so much trouble.
Even though infections can cause a lot of pain and need to be dealt with immediately, you may not have to take antibiotics once the dentist has extracted the tooth. If your mouth is clean and you don’t have a lot of germs, you can normally heal the would by taking care of it. Rinsing your mouth out with salt water for the first few days will keep the extraction site clean. As long as you take care of the extraction site and do what your dentist tells you, you shouldn't have any further problems with the extraction site or the infection.
Looking for more information or a dentist in the Fairfield CT area? Call us at 203-255-5999 or visit online at http://www.1305Dental.com, Dr. Mariana Conant is accepting new patients and now offers evening hours for your convenience.
Friday, July 3, 2009
I Have Gum Disease! Now What?
Periodontal disease can develop around any tooth. When plaque starts growing along the gum line, over time it can spread below the gums. As the bacteria that are part of plaque begin releasing toxins, the gums become irritated. In response to the irritation, the body initiates an immune response and attacks itself.
Specifically, the body begins destroying the tissues and bones that provide the underlying support for the teeth. With the support structure compromised, gums and teeth can separate, creating pockets which then start getting infected. Those pockets will keep growing deeper as long as the condition isn't treated. Once teeth start loosening, there's nothing else that can be done except to extract the affected teeth.
As mentioned above, periodontal disease is most often caused by poor dental hygiene. However, there is another bad habit that can lead to gum disease – cigarette smoking. The relationship between cigarette smoking and periodontal disease has been studied extensively and the relationship is real: those who smoke greatly increase their risks of developing periodontal disease.
Genetics has been shown to play a role in its development, too. If periodontal disease is known to run in the family, early intervention can mean the difference between keeping teeth intact and losing teeth.
Wildly fluctuating hormones during puberty and pregnancy have been shown to increase the risks of developing periodontal disease, and so has stress. When you're stressed, your body has a more difficult time fighting infection, including that which forms in the gums. Certain medications might negatively impact your oral health which is why it's important that your dentist know all that you are taking, along with the dosage. Tooth clenching or grinding can accelerate the rate that the tissues that support your teeth weaken, which can lead to periodontal disease.
Diabetes and certain disorders of the immune system can contribute to problems with the gums as can poor nutrition.
Periodontal disease treatment begins with an effort to scrape away the plaque and tartar that have built up in the root surfaces. This process helps remove the irritating toxins, too. Once the deep pockets have been thoroughly cleaned, surgery usually can be avoided if ongoing, regular maintenance is performed.
When surgery is necessary, the type will depend on the severity of the periodontal disease. Pocket depth reduction reduces the size of the pockets that have developed, making it easer to keep plaque out. The pockets are cleaned and then surgically tightened around the tooth. Regenerative procedures attempt to regenerate the tissues and bone that have been lost. Crown lengthening involves surgically removing and reshaping gums so that more of the tooth is visible. Soft tissue grafts can cover up exposed tooth roots, reducing sensitivity. This procedure can also build up gum tissues that have been lost. Studies show heart disease has a direct connection to gum disease! For more information visit our website at www.1305dental.com or call us at 203-355-5999, Dr. Conant and her staff are always happy to discuss your oral health!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
What You Need to Know About Cavities - Part I
The pain definitely tells us when we have cavities, but few of us understand why we get them. You likely know that poor dental hygiene causes cavities, but do you understand why not brushing or flossing causes cavities?
In order to understand all that's involved in the making of a cavity, you've got to first understand the key players. Those players include saliva, pellicle, plaque and calculus and each resides in the mouth.
Saliva is really important when it comes to protecting teeth and keeping our mouths healthy. Saliva keeps teeth, gums and other tissues inside the mouth lubricated and moist. Saliva helps break food down while eating, and afterwards it washes away some of the bits of food that get stuck on teeth. Saliva also can neutralize acids which lowers the amount present in the mouth. Interestingly, it can even help protect us against certain viruses and bacteria.
If you've ever noticed a slippery feeling on your teeth right after you brush, that's the result of proteins in saliva called pellicle. Pellicle coat teeth after brushing by absorbing into the surface. The pellicle gives teeth an extra layer of protection against decay-causing acids. Unfortunately, bacteria and microorganisms can easily attach to the pellicle and this is actually the stage during which plaque begins to develop.
If you were to look at the white sticky substance on your teeth through a microscope, you'd realize that plaque consists of yeast, microorganisms, bacteria, protozoa, mycoplasmas, white blood cells, food particles, body tissues and viruses.
If people realized that, surely they'd do a better job brushing and flossing! Several hours after brushing is when plaque starts to develop and in just one hour, a good amount will accumulate. If left untouched other microorganisms join the mix, thickening the plaque and turning on its destructive powers.
Bacteria are in the mouth too and they're always present in both good and bad form. The good bacteria help us fight colds and other illnesses. The bad intensify the tooth decaying process. Streptococcus mutans is the worst, producing acid while attaching to teeth. Lactobacillus only can attach to plaque so it doesn't do quite as much damage. Several other bacteria located inside the mouth contribute to tooth decay and periodontal disease.
To summarize, decay begins when bacteria start attaching themselves to the pellicle. Six or so hours later, plaque begins to form. The bacteria present in your mouth produce acids, and these acids, by throwing the pH balance of your mouth out of balance, cause tooth decay. In the case of tooth decay, a process called demineralization begins when the pH level inside the mouth drops below 5.5.
Remember, this chain reaction begins the moment you finish brushing your teeth. But brushing is what continually returns the pH level in your mouth back into the range of 6.2 and 7.0, which is considered neutral. That's why brushing and flossing are so important in fighting tooth decay.
Part II will further elaborate on the importance of a neutral pH level in preventing tooth decay.
For more information visit us at http://www.1305dental.com/ or call us at 203-255-5999
Dr Conant is a general dentist located in Fairfield, CT / Her passion is Smile Makeovers including veneers, crowns and much more! Visit her website at http://www.drconant.com/
Friday, June 26, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Fairfield CT Dentist Dental Implants and affordable alternatives
Great info on Dental Implants. Are you looking for affordable Dental implant solutions?
Call us at 203-255-5999 for a Free Consultation or visit us online at http://www.BrickWalkDental.com/ there you will find some great info and more videos!
Dental Insurance in the United States
But aside from those few programs, an individual's dental care is either partially or fully covered by an insurance plan. Or, if the individual has no insurance coverage, the individual assumes the responsibility for paying all dental care costs as well as any costs assumed by his or her family.
Available dental care options vary widely and depend on the individual's personal situation. If employed, the employer might offer some type of dental coverage plan. Unfortunately, the cost of providing dental insurance to employees is high and many employers are finding it difficult financially to offer dental coverage as a benefit.
When employers do offer their employees dental coverage, costs typically are shared between employee and employer. Those Americans who are self-employed or whose employers do not offer dental coverage can purchase a dental insurance plan on their own, for which there is generally an associated monthly fee. Or they can forgo the purchase of a dental plan and instead pay all costs for dental services as they are incurred.
There is no general answer to what is covered by a dental plan. What is covered by one dental plan may or may not be covered by another. And while one dental plan might cover 100% of the costs of a particular service, another might only cover 70% with the remaining 30% to be paid for by the patient.
Most dental plans will offer some level of coverage for preventative dental services such as 2 check-ups per year. Services covered at a twice-yearly dental exam typically include cleaning, examination, x-rays and a fluoride treatment.
Under the terms of most dental plans offered in the US, any follow-up work that may be needed as a result of such examination will only partially be covered by the plan. Examples of those services include but are not limited to fillings, crowns, root canals, anesthesia and sealants.
As far as what is not covered by dental plans in the United States, most will not cover any type of service considered cosmetic. That includes such services as teeth whitening, orthodontic work, dental implants and, unless they're deemed medically necessary, crowns.
If an employer is offering dental coverage, the employee will complete the application form at the place of employment. After completing the application the employee will have coverage according to the company's enrollment policy.
If an individual is purchasing his or her own dental plan, the Internet is a good place to start the search. There it's easy to compare the costs and coverage of the various dental plans offered to individuals. Application typically can happen online, or the individual can call a special number to apply. After paying the applicable fees and upon approval, that individual can begin making appointments for dental services.
For more information on this post or other dental health information please contact us at http://www.1305dental.com/ or by calling 203-255-5999
Friday, June 19, 2009
A Closer Look At Wisdom Teeth
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Dental Care for Babies
It's true that primary teeth fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth. But one of the most important reasons to teach proper dental care to children is so that the habits they learn early will stick with them throughout the rest of their lives. If good dental habits aren't in place by the time permanent teeth begin appearing, which is around 6 years of age, developing good habits will be more difficult later on.
Most babies start getting teeth when they are 6 months old. The bottom row central incisors typically are the first to appear, followed by the top row central incisors. All together there are 20 primary teeth and they usually erupt according to a 'schedule' that most infants follow. The last primary teeth to erupt are the second molars and they'll appear between the ages of 2 and 3.
If not properly cared for, an infant's teeth can begin to decay from the moment they first erupt. Infant dental decay is painful and should be avoided. Of course, at only 6 months old, an infant does not have the physical or mental skills needed to brush his teeth. At this stage of life, it's up to the caregiver to clean a baby's teeth using either a toothbrush designed for an infant or a very soft washcloth. Just gently brush or rub the tooth (teeth) once a day, before bed.
Pediatric dentists advise that the first dental visit take place when the baby turns 1. That first visit is important and the dentist will want to ensure your baby is getting fluoride from his drinking water. If not, the dentist can write a prescription for fluoride which will help protect the child's developing teeth from dental decay. If a baby's teeth are showing signs of spotting or staining and the baby has not yet turned one, it's a good idea to visit the dentist sooner.
To keep decay under control, don't give infants sugary drinks, especially at night from a bottle.
During the day, don't fill a baby bottle with sweet drinks to use as a pacifier. Keep in mind that most milk and formula and even fruit drinks contain sugar. Doing any of the above can cause baby bottle tooth decay. It's not a good idea to coat a pacifier with sugar either as that can also lead to decay.
At age 2, children can begin daily brushing using a small dab of fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to supervise the tooth brushing.
At meal and snack time, steer clear of sugary drinks, foods and snacks. Teaching your child early on to eat vegetables and healthy snacks will limit tooth decay and is an excellent way to instill good eating habits.
Infomation provided by Dr. Mariana Conant, she has a Family & Cosmetic dentistry office in Fairfield, CT.
When a patient meets Dr. Mariana and they want a new brighter smile, it feels like they are getting to know someone who understands exactly what they are looking for. Dr. Mariana is accurate in matching esthetic restorations not only to the smile, but also to the lips, complexion, and the overall appearance of each individual. Dr. Mariana has a trained eye that finds each patient the shape and shade that works best for them. Dr. Mariana believes that full mouth restorations can increase a patients quality of life and self-esteem by giving them back function and form, but it is not for everyone. You may sometimes achieve beautiful results with a more conservative approach. Dr. Mariana likes to emphasize that maintaining a proper oral hygiene and visiting the dentist at least once a year is essential for smile beauty.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Local Dentist Gives Patients Over $350,000 In Rewards
“All year long we reward our patients just for taking good care of themselves and to thank them for choosing us to be their dentist,” said Dr. Conant, owner of Family & Cosmetic Dentistry of Fairfield at 1305 Post Road in Fairfield. “And in the midst of this challenging economy,” she continued, “these rewards are our way of helping our patients save money – something everyone really likes. We call it our own personal economic stimulus package!”
Each Loyal Patient™ Rewards dollar spends just like a real dollar for savings on everyday purchases, travel and entertainment. The program contains 150,000 reward choices. “It’s almost like giving our patients over $350,000,” Dr. Conant said, “something we’d never be able to afford otherwise.”
Patients are rewarded for keeping their scheduled appointments, healthy checkups, brightening their smile, recommending friends to the practice, and sometimes “Just Because” when the office has the opportunity to do something special for a particularly valued patient.
‘They redeem their rewards for as much as 60% savings off lowest public prices on fun things like travel and entertainment (hotels, cruises, jewelry, movie tickets, software, golf clubs, store gift cards, and much, much more) through our Loyal Patient™ Rewards program, for simply taking good care of their oral health,” Dr. Conant explained.
“Our patients love the savings and we’re delighted to be able to do something for every patient every month – they get $250 in rewards to start, a $50 thank you reward each month just for being our patient, and more rewards when they come in for treatment,” she said. “And unlike a traditional rewards program, they can use their rewards instantly, as soon as they receive them – there’s no waiting or collecting to get to 25,000 points or miles!”
“Beyond the beautiful smile we give our patients, these rewards give them something more to smile about. By year end we expect to have given our patients more than $1 million in rewards!” Dr. Conant said, flashing a big smile of her own.
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Thursday, June 4, 2009
Food and Your Teeth, Info You Need To Know!
The problems all revolve around plaque, that sticky, whitish substance that covers your teeth after you eat. As you probably already know, carbohydrates break down into sugars, the fructose, maltose, glucose and lactose that fuel our bodies. We think this process happens after food leaves our mouths, while en route to our digestive tracts.
That's true for many foods, but some foods begin breaking down right in our mouths. These foods are referred to as fermentable carbohydrates. Bacteria living on your teeth use the sugars found in fermentable carbohydrates like cookies, crackers, cake, soft drinks, cereal, even bananas to produce very strong acids.
These acids can cause demineralization, a process by which the minerals inside a tooth's enamel begin to dissolve. Damaging acids are continually produced as long as these foods remain in contact with the tooth bacteria.
That's why sipping soda all afternoon is more damaging than drinking an entire can during your meal and why sticky foods (potato chips, raisins) and foods that get stuck in the crevices of molars can do more damage than foods that don't stick. Those who snack on sugary foods throughout the day also have a higher incidence of tooth decay.
Fortunately, the body can combat demineralization with a process called remineralization. Saliva facilitates the remineralization process by helping to neutralize damaging acids. Therefore, foods and sugar-free gum that help increase saliva are good choices for combating tooth decay. However, when remineralization takes place more slowly than demineralization, in other words when the process is out of balance, tooth decay may still result.
Eating disorders such as binge eating where an individual consumes large quantities of food only to purge them shortly afterwards also causes serious mineral loss because of all the stomach acids that come into the mouth during a purging session. That's why those suffering from eating disorders often experience tooth decay and demineralization.
When it comes to the teeth and your overall state of health, it's a good idea to stick with the food categories and amounts advised by the US government in its updated Food Pyramid. The 'good' foods to choose include whole grains rather than refined grains, non-citrus fruits (citrus contains a lot of acid), dark green leafy vegetables, lean proteins and calcium-rich foods and beverages.
Cheese is a good food to eat for counteracting acids and so are chicken and nuts. Milk contains lots of minerals that can enhance the remineralization process. Fruits with high water content are also good because they promote saliva. Sugar-free gum that contains xylitol is a good choice as are sugar-free hard candies.
You should limit your intake of processed foods, sugary snacks, beverages containing or mixed with sugar and alcoholic beverages. Limit in-between meal snacking, too.
Need more information? Visit us online at http://www.1305dental.com/ or call the office at 203-255-5999. Dr Mariana Conant offers Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Fairfield, CT and has worked in New York City with some of the worlds top dental professionals.