Dental Health

How Does Pregnancy Impact Oral Health in Reno

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Categories: Advanced Dentistry, Dental Health, Gum Health, Oral Health

Pregnancy And Oral Health In Reno

In today’s The Reno Dentist blog, we will discuss how pregnancy impacts your oral health in Reno. At the Reno Dentist, we want all expectant Nevada mothers to realize the importance of good oral hygiene during pregnancy. Because of the changes going on in a pregnant woman’s body, there are potential dental health issues that may arise.

The Risk to Oral Health in Reno

Many Reno women experience morning sickness accompanied with vomiting. The gastric acid increases the acidity in the mouth which can easily lead to enamel loss and tooth decay. Heightened levels of progesterone and estrogen may relax the ligaments that support the teeth causing them to loosen. Most Reno residents have experienced gingivitis, but during pregnancy, the hormonal changes increase your risk for gingivitis. Without proper dental care, gingivitis can lead to gum disease.

What Can You Do?

If you are pregnant, our at The Reno Dentist recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush for daily brushing. Floss carefully and rinse your mouth with a fluoride wash. If you experience morning sickness, clean your mouth with a baking soda and water mixture to improve oral health in Reno. If you are planning to become pregnant, we recommend that you have a cleaning and exam prior to your pregnancy. If you need any dental procedures, it is a good idea to get them done as soon as possible. If you experience any dental problems during your pregnancy, please call and schedule an appointment at 775-323-0700. Untreated dental disease can affect your overall health. At The Reno Dentist we not only offer excellent dental care to our pregnant patients, but we also provide quality preventative care and root canals for the entire family. Our Reno patients can expect professional cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and Invisalign clear braces.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

Dental Health in Reno: Which Type of Toothbrush is Best?

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Categories: Advanced Dentistry, Dental Health, Gum Health, Oral Health

Toothbrush Wars in Sparks Oral Health in Reno dental health in reno

It may surprise you to know that some men and women have very strong opinions about which type of toothbrush is the best. Is manual or electric? Is there really one that is clearly better? Most dentists will tell you that all toothbrushes, when used thoroughly, are effective at removing plaque. Choosing which kind you prefer is really up to you. Today, we want to give you some extra information about toothbrushes to help you select which kind is right for your dental health in Reno.

Does It Save You Money?

You need to consider cost and convenience. Some people argue that even though electric toothbrushes are more pricey, you’ll save on dental bills. However, there are no definitive studies to back up this claim. Manual toothbrushes are easy to find, whereas not all drugstores carry all types of electric toothbrushes. This can be problematic when buying replacement heads. People who travel may find that a smaller, manual toothbrush is easier to pack and batteries are not needed.

Impact on Dental Health in Reno

The pressure you put on your gums with either type of toothbrush is essential. Some people say that it’s difficult to know how much pressure they use with electric toothbrushes, while others say that because of the quick electrical movements, they tend to be more gentle on their gums than when they use manual brushes. You may want to try them both to establish your brushing style. Then you can discuss how it affects dental health in Reno with your dentist.

Schedule an Appointment

Special consideration should be taken for people with arthritis. Most dentists guide their elderly and arthritic patients to use electric toothbrushes when their manual dexterity is diminished. As for children, once they are old enough, an electric toothbrush may be preferable, but safety should always be the first concern of parents. Whichever type of toothbrush you choose, make sure you get soft bristles and replace it every three to four months. Don’t forget, we also offer services such as dental implants, teeth whitening, and laser dentistry.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

The Future of Tooth Decay in Reno

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Gum Health

The Future Of Tooth Decay In Reno

Dental patients in the Sparks area may wonder what would happen if they didn’t seek quality dental care on a regular basis. The answer isn’t pretty. A common result of untreated cavities are abscesses and tooth decay in Reno. A tooth abscess is an infection near the root of the tooth or between the gum and the tooth. This collection of pus can be very uncomfortable, either causing a shooting pain or a dull throbbing pain. You may also experience bad breath, fever, swollen neck glands, and feelings of general discomfort associated with the infection.

Avoiding Abscesses and Tooth Decay in Reno

Tooth abscesses can also be caused by a chip or a crack in the tooth that allows bacteria to enter. To avoid unpleasant dental problems like abscesses or tooth decay in Reno, have regular visits with your dentist. Also, don’t forget to brush after every meal. With daily brushing and flossing and regular check-ups and cleanings, you can keep your mouth in peak health. Make sure to include flossing once a day to get in those hard to reach places. For questions about which toothpaste to use or what kind of floss you should buy, ask our dental team during your consultation at The Reno Dentist.

Schedule an Appointment

If you are looking for quality dental care in the Reno area, come visit us here at The Reno Dentist. Dr. Shane Sykes has been a dentist in Reno since 2011. We can also answer any questions you have about smile makeover procedures such as dental crowns, veneers, teeth whitening,  dentures, porcelain veneers, and dental implants. We also offer general dentistry treatments such as root canals, wisdom teeth extraction, dental bonding, gum countouring. Call 775-323-0700 to schedule an appointment! We look forwarding to meeting you.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

Oral Health in Reno: Instill Good Brushing Habits in Your Children

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Gum Health

infant dental exam Reno Oral Health in Reno

New Reno parents may be surprised by the American Dental Association’s recommendations on infant oral care. Parents are advised to begin brushing their baby’s teeth as soon as the first teeth emerge. After all, brand-new teeth are just as vulnerable to tooth decay as older teeth.

Parents are encouraged to use a cloth and a smidgen of toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice to wipe each tooth. As more teeth come through, it’s even more crucial for the teeth to be brushed after each meal or, at least twice a day.

It is essential to select the proper toothbrush, in order to make brushing time as pleasant as possible. A soft-bristled brush is best with a small amount of toothpaste. Infant and toddler-sized toothbrushes with a small head of bristles are useful. Also, there are circle and triangular-shaped brushes that allow your toddler to walk around with their brush with less chance of injury in case of a fall.

If the toothpaste is causing an unpleasant struggle, brush without toothpaste. The goal is to remove food bits that will create bacteria followed by plaque and then cavities. When two teeth touch, it’s time to floss. Flossing is essential to make sure no food is lodged between the teeth. Proper flossing requires fine motor skills which most children don’t develop before age six or seven. Parents need to assist with flossing until they are sure their children can do it effectively for the sake of their own oral health in Reno.

Until the child is old enough to properly brush his or her teeth, they should receive adult supervision and guidance regarding oral health in Reno. Instilling the proper brushing and flossing methods will reap lifelong benefits. While it may seem that supervising them is time-consuming, remember that it’s creating a daily habit that will guard their oral health in Reno. Also, dental expenses related to poor oral hygiene will be avoided. Your child’s first dental visit should be within six months of the first tooth appearing and no later than their first birthday. It may seem early, but most parents bring their child to the pediatrician early. You can trust in your dentist to look out for potential problems and guide you about how to help your child preserve a healthy smile.

If you live in the Sparks area and don’t yet have a trusted family dentist, call The Reno Dentist at 775-323-0700 to schedule your child’s first dental appointment with Dr. Sykes. You can ask us about general dentistry, orthodontics, and gum disease treatment. By starting young, your child will become familiar with our dental practice and our friendly staff, ensuring that he or she never develops a fear of the dentist.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

General Dentistry in Sparks: Inlay vs. Onlay

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Categories: Beautiful Smile, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health

tooth colored fillings Reno General Dentistry in Sparks

If you have tooth sensitivity or pain when you chew with your back teeth, the surfaces may be damaged. One option for restoration is the use of an inlay or onlay made of metal, composite resin, or porcelain. The choice of an inlay or onlay depends on how much decay and tooth loss has developed.

Restorations with General Dentistry in Sparks

Inlays are very strong and shaped to precisely fit a hole in a damaged tooth. An inlay resembles a filling and fills a small part of the tooth, while an onlay covers one or more of the cusps on the top of the tooth. In other words, an inlay fills a hole without changing the shape of the tooth, while an onlay builds up the tooth surface to restore its former dimension.

Through advanced general dentistry in Sparks, the procedure begins with a comprehensive evaluation, oral x-ray, and an impression. The damaged area will be removed and then the inlay or onlay will be formed to exactly fit your tooth and bite. While it is being made, your tooth will have a temporary restoration piece to cover and protect the vulnerable area.

Finally, the inlay or onlay will be placed and permanently bonded to the tooth. Since the procedure requires removal of damaged tooth material, restoration fabrication at the lab, and the placement on the tooth, it will take a few appointments of general dentistry in Sparks to complete the process. Inlays and onlays protect the tooth from further degeneration, provide natural function, and are durable and inconspicuous.

Schedule an Appointment

Dr. Shane Sykes has been restoring teeth since 2011 for patients of all ages. The Reno Dentist is located in Reno though we treat patients from the surrounding communities of Spanish Springs, Virginia City, and Sparks. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, root canals, and dental implants. Make your appointment today!

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

Gritting Your Teeth: How Stress Can Affect Your Smile in Reno

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Categories: Advanced Dentistry, Dental Health, General Dentistry, Gum Health

Reno how stress hurts your teeth Smile in Reno

Doctors have been telling us for years that stress can increase the risk of everything from high blood pressure to depression. But how often do we think about how stress impacts our smile in Reno? Here are some dental problems linked to stress.

Canker and Cold Sores
Cold sores are a symptom of the herpes simplex virus. Scientists don’t know exactly what causes canker sores but suspect they are related to infection, virus, or a weak immune system. If you are prone to mouth sores, you probably already know that stress seems to bring them on or prolong healing times. If you get these sores often, talk to your doctor or dentist. Your healthcare provider can advise you on medications, diet, and stress reduction methods.

Teeth Grinding
It’s no surprise that teeth grinding is detrimental to teeth. It starts with enamel wear, then loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss. During this progression, there may be other problems such as gum recession, headaches, and TMD (Temporomandibular Disorders). If you grind your teeth, it’s important to address this condition as soon as possible. In addition to stress, there are many criteria that can cause or exacerbate teeth grinding. These include malocclusion and prescription medications.

Your dentist may prescribe an appliance to guard your teeth and keep your jaw in the proper position while you are sleeping. Other treatments include cognitive behavior therapy, relaxation therapies, mandibular advancement devices, physical therapy, and medication. Your dentist can create a treatment plan and work with you and your doctor to manage or eliminate this condition. Sleep apnea can also be exacerbated by stress. Oral appliances can treat some forms of sleep apnea.

Temporomandibular Disorders
There are many direct and indirect causes of TMD. For example, inability to manage stress may cause jaw clenching which, in turn, causes pain in the jaw joint. Other symptoms of TMD include tenderness, pain, swelling in the neck, popping sounds, and changes in bite alignment. Again, if you experience any of these, talk to your dentist about improving your health and your smile in Reno.

Gum Disease
Stress can reduce your ability to fight plaque build-up, which can cause gingivitis. Some people forget to brush and floss when they are experiencing high levels of stress, so this can also cause the condition to grow worse with time.

Tooth pain and untreated dental issues will only give you something else to worry about. Let’s nip this vicious cycle in the bud. Make an appointment with your dentist to protect your smile in Reno.

Remember, a healthy smile will give you one less thing to worry about.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

5 Simple Ways To Avoid A Cracked Tooth in Reno

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Categories: Beautiful Smile, Dental Crowns, Dental Health, General Dentistry

cost of dental crowns Sparks

A cracked tooth in Reno can be painful, unattractive, and expensive to repair. Today’s post in The Reno Dentist dental blog contains an easy-to-follow list of tips to keep your teeth strong.

1. Avoiding a cracked tooth means avoiding chewing on hard objects. Mind-blowing, right? People should steer clear of ice, hard candies, hard nuts, popcorn, and beef jerky. Also be wary of pitted fruits—that peach may be soft but if you bite hard into the pit, you could damage a tooth.

2. It is vital to protect your teeth while engaging in any physical activity where your mouth can be hit. If you enjoy pick-up basketball games, indoor soccer leagues, rec center flag football, and many other activities, you should be using a well-fitting mouth guard.

3. Don’t use your teeth as a tool. Locate a pair of scissors to open a package. Rip the price tag off a new piece of clothing without using teeth. Use a nutcracker for nuts. A quality dental crown can cost hundreds of dollars.

4. Most people know that grinding your teeth is dangerous, but did you know that it can lead to a cracked tooth in Reno? If you know or suspect that you are a tooth grinder, speak with your dentist so you can address the problem with stress reduction techniques and/or a mouth guard. Having headaches or jaw pain frequently can be a symptom of teeth grinding.

5. Lastly, make sure that you visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist can alert you to conditions that might predispose you to a cracked tooth in Reno, such as having an uneven chewing surface or brittle teeth. Your dentist may also discover tiny cracks you aren’t aware of. Take care of these cracks before the whole tooth is in danger.

If you already have a cracked tooth, never fear! Treatment is available for cracks small and large. Veneers, cosmetic dental bonding, inlays/onlays, fillings, and dental implants are all used to repair or replace damaged teeth. If you crack a tooth, call 775-323-0700 to schedule an appointment with a professional dental team in Reno.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

5 Tools For Smile Transformations in Reno

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Restorative Dentistry, Smile Transformation

Smile Transformations in Reno

Do you think your teeth are too small? Do you suffer from misshapen or cracked teeth? Do you have spacing irregularities? These problems are all-too-common. But you don’t have to live with them! With the advances in cosmetic dentistry, there are 5 smile transformations in Reno for these vexing tooth issues!

1. Veneers. Also called dental laminates or porcelain veneers, these extremely thin shells are custom-made so the size, shape, and color are perfectly matched to your surrounding teeth. The veneers are securely cemented to the front of the teeth to dramatically upgrade your smile.

2. Bonding. This procedure uses a strong tooth-colored resin to close spaces, repair chips and cracks, or change the shape. The resin is molded into place and then a light is applied to harden the material for secure adherence to the tooth.

3. Recontouring. This minimally-invasive procedure involves the reshaping of a tooth by removing little bits of enamel to improve the shape or length. This cosmetic dentistry procedure is sometimes called odontoplasty or slenderizing.

4. Crowns. Most people are familiar with this durable multi-purpose restoration. Natural-looking porcelain crowns are fabricated in the shape and color of the tooth and cemented into place to fully cover the part of the tooth visible above the gum line.

5. Braces. Patients of all ages are transforming their smiles with the power of orthodontia. Before you dismiss this option as too time-consuming or costly, learn about the new braces now available. Braces are more convenient and discreet than ever before. Countless Sparks dental patients have achieved remarkable smiles with a smile redesign from The Reno Dentist!

Scheduling Smile Transformations in Reno

At The Reno Dentist, we are enthusiastic about to helping our patients have optimum beautiful smiles with smile transformations in Reno. If you have any questions about veneers, bonding, recontouring, or crowns, we invite you to call us at 775-323-0700 to make an appointment today. We can make you look and feel great!

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

Floss Pick Facts For Dental Health in Sparks

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Categories: Dental Health, Dental technology, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

Dental Health in Sparks

Health-conscious individuals want to keep their teeth as clean as possible. However, they are also looking for convenience. That’s why many of them turn to floss picks instead of standard dental floss. These little tools are quite handy. They usually have a handle that is pointed and can double as a toothpick, and a length of floss strung in a U-shaped groove. They are cost-effective and can be used more discretely than floss.

Floss Picks vs. Traditional Floss

While this may seem like a dream come true for those hoping to make flossing a more regular part of their oral health routine, floss picks are still a step below actual floss when it comes to effectiveness. The American Dental Association has only approved dental floss for cleaning in between teeth. One issue is that floss picks can’t curve and form the angles needed for superior cleaning.

So, what is a responsible dental patient to do? The first thing is to talk to your dentist about dental health in Sparks. If you love floss picks, continue to use them when convenient. But try to use regular dental floss daily.

Schedule an Appointment to Improve Dental Health in Sparks

If you are in the process of looking for a new dentist, we hope that you consider The Reno Dentist. We have been serving the Sparks area since 2011 from our Reno office. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff would love to answer any questions or concerns you have regarding flossing and other dental health in Sparks. We also welcome questions about cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening, dental implants, and porcelain veneers. Call 775-323-0700 today to schedule an exam or consultation with our staff. We look forward to hearing from you. 

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

Advanced Dentistry in Reno: X-Ray Vision

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Categories: Advanced Dentistry, Dental Health, Laser Dentistry

family dentist Reno advanced dentistry in reno

It’s not extremely pleasant. You have to put on the heavy apron, hold a rigid piece of film in your mouth and sit really, really still while your dentist’s assistant takes x-rays. Is it really required? Absolutely! No question about it. Your dentist can’t see everything that is going on with your teeth, bone, and surrounding tissue without x-rays.

What Hidden Problems Do Dental X-rays Detect?

  • Cavities underneath existing bridgework, crowns, or other restorations
  • Abscesses, cysts, and infections
  • Cavities between teeth just below where adjacent teeth touch (interproximal cavities)
  • The position of wisdom teeth

How Often Should X-rays Be Taken?

This depends on the dental patient. A patient with no history of tooth decay, no present tooth decay, no braces, and no existing crowns, veneers, or bridgework is at low risk for cavities. A high-risk patient is in the opposite situation and may have one or more of the following: a history of tooth decay, existing restorations, braces, weak enamel, chipped or cracked teeth. In addition, patients with an eating disorder or other medical condition may be considered high risk. People who haven’t had their wisdom teeth taken out also need x-rays more frequently. If you believe yourself to be in this situation, schedule an appointment with us for advanced dentistry in Reno.

Interested in Advanced Dentistry in Reno?

Whether you are one of the people who goes willingly for your check-up or someone who is hesitant about getting dental work done, The Reno Dentist has opened its doors to all patients since 2011. Our team is able to create a safe and comfortable environment for our patients so they never have to feel anxious during their appointment. The cost of dentistry doesn’t have to be an unobtainable. A suitable consultation can bring you up to date about possible procedures and shed light on the pros and cons of advanced dentistry in Reno. We’ll get you in a comfortable seat because we believe that comfort is the key to a happy patient. And of course, we offer Invisalign, porcelain veneers, and gum disease treatment. Interested in an outstanding experience? We encourage thrill seekers and cautious patients alike to visit us at our office.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503