Dental Health

Common Myths about Sparks NV Family Cosmetic Dentistry

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

General Dentistry Sparks NV Myth #1: Cosmetic Dentistry is Never Necessary for a Healthy Smile

Many so-called Sparks NV cosmetic dental procedures are not solely cosmetic. Dental procedures such as tooth replacement are smile-enhancing and, more importantly, prevent many potential problems such as tooth movement, bone loss and difficulty chewing and speaking.

Myth #2: A Sparks NV Dental Bridge is the Only Way to Replace a Missing Tooth

Dental bridges are a Sparks NV dental cosmetic procedure that have been used for many years with success. However, dental implants are often a better choice for replacing one or more missing teeth. Dental implants have many advantages for Sparks NV dental patients. They feel like natural teeth, they are stronger, and they are easier to clean than dental bridges. Sparks NV tooth implants can also be used to anchor dentures or partial dentures.

Myth #3: At-Home Kits are as Effective for Tooth Whitening Than a Professional Dental Solution

At The Reno Dentist, we offer our Sparks NV dental patients teeth whitening treatments that provide a much greater level of whiteness than at-home kits. At-home kits may remove surface stains, but they do not provide optimum results and can often lead to uneven coloring.

Myth #4: Dental Bonding is the Best Way to Fix a Chipped Tooth.

Dental bonding can restore the shape of a tooth, but may not be the best long-term solution. If you have a damaged tooth, you may be a good candidate for porcelain veneers. Call us at (775) 525-5692 to set up an appointment so we can determine the best solution for you.

Myth #5: Sparks NV Braces are the Only Way to Straighten Teeth

Braces are often part of a transforming dental makeover for our Sparks NV teens and adults alike. However, if your teeth are only slightly crooked, lumineers can reshape your teeth and dramatically improve your smile. And the best thing about porcelain veneers? They offer instant results!

Dr. Shane Sykes DMD
The Reno Dentist
855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno Nevada 89503
https://therenodentist.com/
775-323-0700

Child-Friendly Reno Dentist

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry

Family Dentistry Reno

It’s a question that many parents in Reno debate: When should I take my child in for their first dental appointment? The answer may be a little earlier than you think.

The American Dental Association recommends that a child sees a dentist around twelve months of age. This happens to be about the time when the first teeth tend to erupt.

Some Reno area parents may wonder why dental visits are needed so early in their child’s life. Not only will your family dentist want to clean your child’s teeth and apply fluoride, it’s also important for small children to get used to seeing the dentist.

Starting early dental visits will mean that later in life your Reno child is less likely to require braces or other cosmetic dentistry procedures such as dental implants.

If you have a child that is apprehensive about visiting The Reno Dentist, you might want to think about bringing them to your next Reno dental appointment. Seeing you in the dental chair will help them become more comfortable with the idea.

I’m Dr. Shane Sykes, a child-friendly Reno dentist, and I want my patients to have the best oral health possible. I also want them to look their best, so if you have any questions about a smile makeover, give us a call at 775-323-0700.

At The Reno Dentist we offer:

Thanks for visiting our Reno dental blog, and contact us today for all your dental needs!

Dr. Shane Sykes
The Reno Dentist
855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
 775-323-0700
https://therenodentist.com/about/our-office/

Soft, Medium, or Buzz Lightyear?

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

Family Dentistry Reno At The Reno Dentist, Dr. Shane Sykes is often asked how to choose the most basic tool of oral hygiene, the toothbrush. Picking a toothbrush in Reno can be as difficult as choosing a paint color, and there seems to be just as many choices.

If you have visited the dental section of your local Reno grocery store or Walmart lately, you know what I am talking about. There are brushes with bristles of varying lengths, brushes that massage your gums, and brushes that change color when they are used up. (If I had to rate them purely on their fun factor, I would choose the Spiderman brush.)

Some toothbrush manufacturers claim their brushes freshen your breath or remove stains from your teeth. How do you choose?

One key factor is the firmness of the bristles. Hard bristles may be more effective for cleaning burnt steak off a grill or hard water deposits off a shower floor. However, this does not hold true for your teeth. Medium and firm brushes can damage your gums. Soft and extra-soft bristles are plenty stiff enough to clean plague, food particles, and surface stains from your teeth. Soft bristles also offer more flexibility for hard-to-reach nooks and crannies.

After having cosmetic dental work or oral surgery in Reno, especially anything involving soft tissue grafts, make sure you use an extra-soft brush and be careful!

When buying a toothbrush for a child in Reno, make sure the brush feels comfortable in their hand. If the size and angle feels awkward, the child will be less likely to use it long enough to clean all areas of the mouth. Children do not necessarily need a child-sized tooth brush. Some Reno kids can manage an adult size brush better than a short, narrow child size brush. If you are unsure, ask your Reno dentist at The Reno Dentist.

What about the electric types and water-shooters? Some Reno folks like the feeling of vibrating bristles or a mini-squirt gun blasting away at the plaque. Reno people with arthritis or other movement-inhibiting conditions can benefit from powered brushes which take some strain off hands and arm muscles.

Is your toothbrush doing the job? Schedule an exam with your family dentist at The Reno Dentist.

At The Reno Dentist, our knowledgeable dental hygienists instruct our Reno pediatric clients and Reno adult patients on proper brushing and flossing. If you haven’t experienced a dental deep cleaning at The Reno Dentist, you don’t know how clean your teeth and gums can feel.

Schedule a thorough dental cleaning today by calling The Reno Dentist at 775-323-0700. An outstanding feature of The Reno Dentist is gentle, professional staff. We offer dental implants and a full spectrum of restorative dental procedures.

Oral Health For Sparks Diabetics

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

General Dentistry Sparks NV

Today’s Sparks NV dental article is entitled ‘Oral Health For Sparks Diabetics.’ Many Sparks NV general dentistry patients with diabetes have dental problems. However, gum disease, tooth loss, and periodontal disease are not unavoidable.

Blood sugar is the complicating factor. Sparks NV diabetics who control their blood sugar have lower rates of dental problems. In fact, many Sparks NV dentists have noticed no increased risk of dental disease among diabetics who maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

When blood sugar levels rise, the amount of sugars and starches increase in your mouth. These substances combine with the bacteria naturally present to create enamel-eroding plaque. Untreated plaque creates cavities.

In addition to cavities, Sparks NV dental patients with diabetes need to be vigilant about gum health. Because diabetes can make it harder to control the growth of bacteria, the amount of plaque in your mouth can multiply quicker. Plaque not only causes cavities, it inflames and weakens gum tissue and eventually the bone surrounding teeth.

Untreated gum disease progresses to periodontitis, a more severe infection. Because Sparks NV diabetics have a lower resistance to infection, it can be difficult to reverse periodontitis in people with diabetes. To make matters even worse, the presence of infection can make it harder to maintain a healthy blood sugar level.

Bottom line? 1: Brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque build-up. 2: See your Sparks NV dentist for twice-yearly cleanings to remove any plaque and tartar that has accumulated under the gumline.

Dr. Sykes of The Reno Dentist is accepting new patients in the Sparks NV area. We can help diabetic dental patients keep their smile beautiful. If you are in need of cosmetic dentistry because of diabetes related decay or gum disease, we can restore your beautiful smile with the latest tooth restoration options. Ask us about crowns, dental implants, implant anchored dentures, porcelain veneers, inlays/onlays, and same-day restorations.

The Reno Dentist is located at 855 W Seventh St Ste 200, Reno NV. Call us at 775-323-0700 to schedule a consultation. Thanks for visiting the our Sparks NV dentistry blog!

Dr. Shane Sykes
The Reno Dentist
855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno Nevada 89503
775-323-0700
https://therenodentist.com/about/our-office/

Celebrating The Past And Looking To The Future At The Reno Dentist

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

General Dentistry Reno

It has now been 150 years since the first dental license was issued to Sir John Tomes. Reno dental patients should be grateful for the advances made in dentistry during the past 150 years.

There was a time when blacksmiths and wig makers would also extract teeth with forceps to make a little extra money. Anyone could call themselves a dentist. Often these untrained people broke the jaws of the person they were trying to help. Ouch!

At The Reno Dentist, we celebrate with the Reno dental community and marvel at the many advances made in the history of dentistry, particularly cosmetic dentistry.

One of the modern treatments that has helped countless Reno patients is invisible braces. This non-visible orthodontic therapy is custom made for each patient. They are transparent and removable and will help you achieve your desired smile in about 3 to 18 months.

I am Dr. Shane Sykes. My training didn’t end when I graduated from dental school and opened my practice in Reno. As a cutting-edge cosmetic dentist, I continually seek training so I can expertly perform the latest procedures. In addition, our practice uses the most advanced dental materials available.

If you are one of the many Reno residents who has dreamed of an esthetic improvement to your smile, we invite you to make an appointment with The Reno Dentist to discuss a smile makeover. Complete smile transformations are completed as quickly and professionally as possible – sometimes in just one visit!

One of our most sought after treatments at The Reno Dentist is cosmetic dentistry and many Reno folks are enjoying a brighter smile because of dental implants.

At The Reno Dentist we have been serving the residents of  zip code area 89503 since 2011 and would love to provide you and your family with professional family dentistry.

Ignoring It Won’t Make It Go Away

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

Toothaches Sparks NV

Are you a busy Sparks NV resident suffering with toothaches, but ignoring the pain? Have you started chewing on one side of your mouth to avoid your sensitive teeth? Have you stopped drinking hot and cold beverages to alleviate the discomfort? Dental pain is like an unpaid speeding ticket, ignoring it won’t make it go away.

Many Sparks NV area adults and children dread seeking relief from a family dentist because they fear the treatment will hurt worse than the pain they are experiencing. Waiting too long to care for your teeth can cause serious health problems–and not just in your mouth.

My name is Dr. Shane Sykes and I have been calming the anxious feelings of my Sparks NV patients since 2011. At The Reno Dentist, we help you relax and ease any discomfort you may have. We create a pleasant dental experience for all of our Sparks NV area patients. We will answer your questions in order to help alleviate your fears and make your dental visit as safe and comfortable as possible.

In addition to general dentistry, The Reno Dentist offers cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening, and TMJ treatment for Sparks NV residents.

Your smile can and should be your most attractive feature. Don’t let dental distress keep you from gaining and maintaining a dazzling smile. Let the professional and caring dental team at The Reno Dentist help restore and preserve your oral health. Call today to schedule an appointment. Our phone number is 775-323-0700. At The Reno Dentist we want your smile to last a lifetime.

Dr. Shane Sykes
The Reno Dentist
855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada 89503
775-323-0700
https://therenodentist.com/about/our-office/

‘Common’ vs ‘Normal’

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Categories: Dental Health, TMJ

Recently I was visiting with a patient and she mentioned that she “occasionally” has headaches. I asked how often she has them, and she said “Oh, no more than normal.” When queried for further explanation, she explained that she has headaches lasting one to two days about twice a week!

While such unfortunate suffering may be “common” it is not “normal”. We can help you discover what is normal and open your eyes to a world of comfort you didn’t know existed.  While disease may be common, ‘dis-ease’ is certainly not normal. Every one of our ten trillion cells is struggling to provide us with a vibrant, vital life, if only we will allow them to do their job. We get in the way of our own health when we suffer injuries, make poor food choices, take on too much stress, and deprive our bodies of the rest we so desperately need.

We invite you to come visit us and we’ll help you move from the pain so common to the peace and beauty that is normal!

Cavity Fighting Chewing Gum For Our Reno Patients?

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

General Dentistry Reno I’m Dr. Shane Sykes DMD of The Reno Dentist. My Reno dentistry clients often ask me if chewing xylitol gum is an effective substitute for tooth brushing and regular general dentistry exams.

Before I answer that question, let me tell you a little bit about xylitol:

Xylitol is a natural sweetener that was first discovered in birch tree bark but is also found in many fruits and vegetables. Unlike most other sweeteners (natural or synthetic), xylitol is actually good for your teeth. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated that xylitol prevents the growth of the bacteria that initiates decay. It also reduces plaque and strengthens tooth enamel.

Xylitol has other benefits, as well. Because it is low on the glycemic index, many of my Reno diabetic patients enjoy it as a healthy alternative to sugar. If my cosmetic dentistry patients complain about frequent dry mouth, I recommend Xylitol gum or mints to stimulate saliva production without promoting tooth decay.

Now, back to the golden question. Is xylitol gum just as effective as brushing your teeth and seeing your Reno family dentist regularly? Absolutely not! If you cannot brush your teeth after a meal, chewing xylitol gum for five or ten minutes is probably a good idea. However, you should still brush your teeth thoroughly (with a soft brush) after meals and get twice-yearly exams and oral dentistry deep cleanings at your Reno cosmetic dentistry clinic.

At The Reno Dentist, our goal is to keep your smile healthy and beautiful for life by preventing dental problems before they start. If you postpone dental visits until you feel pain, you risk losing teeth and most certainly will require more extensive treatment than if the problem was caught earlier. Is it time for a dental exam? Call us at 775-323-0700 to book an appointment. Our knowledgeable is waiting to take care of all your dental needs.

Gummy Smile?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health

Cosmetic Dentistry Reno Many Reno cosmetic dentistry patients with a gummy smile undergo crown lengthening surgery to bring proper balance and symmetry to their smile. Gum tissue and, in some cases, bone is removed to expose more of the visible part of a tooth. It is a safe procedure that does not affect healthy tooth structure.

A ‘gummy smile’ is a term used to describe a smile with teeth that appear too short because an unusual amount of bone and soft tissue hide part of the crown. Our Reno cosmetic dental patients who have opted for crown lengthening love how their new perfect smile looks and feels. Some of our crown lengthening clients also choose teeth whitening for an extra-dazzling smile!

Crown lengthening is not used solely for cosmetic reasons. When a tooth is injured and breaks at the gum line or if a filling or crown comes off a tooth that contains decay, crown lengthening makes additional tooth structure accessible for further restorative dentistry work. It is also used to treat some types of periodontal disease.

At The Reno Dentist, we perform cosmetic and restorative crown lengthening for patients in the Reno area. The surgery can be performed by a general dentist, periodontist or oral surgeon.

If you are interested in crown lengthening or other cosmetic dental procedures and live in the Reno area, schedule an exam by calling 775-323-0700. We are conveniently located at 855 W Seventh St Ste 200 in Reno. When you come in, we can show you before and after photos of our cosmetic dentistry clients who are enjoying their new smile.

Shane Sykes DMD
The Reno Dentist
https://therenodentist.com/

Smokeless Is Not Harmless For Sparks NV Tobacco Chewers

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

General Dentistry Sparks NVHello Sparks NV family dentistry friends. Today’s topic is ‘The Dangers Of Smokeless Tobacco’.

Cigarette sales at most Sparks NV stores have decreased in the past decade, but some tobacco consumers have switched to smokeless products.

There is a common misconception in the Sparks area (especially among teens) that smokeless tobacco is harmless. This is absolutely not true. Regardless of the specific type: spit tobacco, snuff, chew, or pinch, this form of tobacco is as deadly as conventional cigarettes.

At The Reno Dentist, we encounter serious consequences of smokeless tobacco use because many occur in the mouth. Oral cancer, mouth lesions, gum disease and tooth decay are the most common dental problems caused by smokeless tobacco.

Keeping a pinch between your cheek and gum all day is worse than keeping an all-day sucker. The tobacco contains almost as much sugar as the candy but delivers harmful chemicals as an added bonus. The dangers are two-fold: the tobacco erodes the teeth and also causes the gums to pull away from teeth.

Precancerous Mouth Lesion Screening: Mouth Lesions are painful sores that could eventually become cancer. If smokeless tobacco use is stopped, the lesions often disappear within a year for Sparks NV cosmetic dental patients.

Oral Cancer in Sparks NV: Smokeless tobacco use in Sparks increases the risk for several types of life-threatening cancers including those of the mouth, gums, lips, tongue, and throat.

Oral cancers can be as deadly as lung cancer and usually require surgery. If the Sparks NV general dentistry patient is fortunate and the cancer is successfully removed with surgery, the collateral damage to the face, neck, or jaw is not pretty.

These are the main dental risks of smokeless tobacco. I should also mention two other biggies: addiction and heart disease, though those are topics for another day.

At The Reno Dentist, we perform oral cancer screenings and mouth lesions examinations. To schedule an appointment, call 775-323-0700.

If want to quit using smokeless tobacco products, we recommend that you consult Dr. Sykes at The Reno Dentist, your primary care doctor, or your area pharmacist.

The Reno Dentist
855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada 89503
https://therenodentist.com/