Family Dentistry

3 Point Checklist Before Your Dental Consultation in Reno

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Categories: Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Smile Transformation, Teeth Whitening

Dental Consultation in Reno

Looking for a dentist because you’re losing the battle with plaque build-up, chipped teeth, tooth pain, stains, or tooth decay? Today’s post offers 3 important steps to take before you arrive at The Reno Dentist for a dental consultation in Reno.

The state of your mouth is critical to your fitness both emotionally and physically. Everyone wants to make a pleasing impression when they smile or speak. We understand that. The look, the odor, the feel, and the functionality of your biting surfaces are so important to your everyday experience that we recognize our critical role in finding solutions to these issues. Of course, your very first step is making contact. Please call us at  775-323-0700 or visit us online to schedule a dental consultation in Reno. After you schedule a consultation with our team, please take a moment to review the following checklist for a productive appointment experience:

1. Analyze your hygiene routine and gaps in technique or consistency.
When do you brush your teeth? Do you floss? How often? If not, why? We can review your habits and ascertain what is holding you back, if anything.

2. Pinpoint pain or problem areas throughout your mouth.
Persistent or intermittent? Sharp or dull? Triggered by hot or cold? Living with pain is unnecessary with the technology and expertise available these days. Usually, there are uncomplicated solutions to seemingly big pains. Let us address all your aches.

3. Define what you want your smile to look like.
If you can describe your optimal smile, we can explore how to obtain it. There are numerous possibilities for an extraordinary smile redesign as well as dental maintenance procedures. Cosmetic dentistry runs the gamut from teeth whitening to veneers to dental implants.

We anticipate you’ll have questions about the cost of dental implants, the price of filling a cavity, or placing a crown. We have answers for you. Our team is equipped and trained in procedures perfect for your needs. We see patients for services like dentures, Invisalign, and root canals. When it comes to looking for a dentist in Reno or the surrounding communities, please know that you will be in gentle and experienced hands with our knowledgeable team. Call today for a premium dental consultation in Reno.

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

Save Your Breath: Dealing with Bad Breath in Reno

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

bad breath in reno

Today’s post focuses on a problem experienced by many people – bad breath, also known as halitosis. Bad breath in Reno has several causes. The most frequent cause is poor oral hygiene. Often, halitosis arises midday due to the inability to brush teeth between meals. Small food particles get stuck on the teeth, gums, and tongue and grow bacteria. The bacteria and decay of the food create a sulfur compound, which emits the undesirable odor we know as bad breath. Food particles, bacteria, and sulfuric gas all need to be removed to eliminate bad breath.

While poor oral hygiene is the most prevalent cause of halitosis, many factors can contribute to or worsen the problem. Here are the most common causes of bad breath in Reno:

  • Inability to brush between meals
  • Gum disease or tooth decay
  • Smoking
  • Braces
  • An infected root canal
  • Diabetes
  • Kidney failure
  • Liver problems
  • Infection
  • Dry mouth
  • Dieting
  • Age
  • Crooked teeth
  • Ear, nose, throat issues
  • Tonsil issues
  • Mouth breathing
  • Some prescription medications
  • Ill-fitting dentures

The best remedy is consistent, thorough brushing and flossing, but other actions might also be necessary depending on the cause(s). For example, a salivary gland problem or certain medications can cause dry mouth. Saliva moistens the teeth and gums, clearing away odiferous dead cells. Saliva also neutralizes the ever-present acids on the tongue, gums, and cheeks. Limiting caffeine, chewing sugar-free gum, using OTC saliva substitutes, and using a humidifier can add moisture to the mouth.


To Minimize or Prevent Bad Breath:

  • Go to the dentist twice a year for professional dental cleanings
  • Brush teeth, tongue, gums, and roof of the mouth
  • Use a tongue spray or scraper
  • Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse
  • Chew sugarless gum
  • Brush and floss after each meal
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months
  • Have a toothbrush and floss available when you are out
  • Talk to your doctor or dentist if bad breath continues despite proper oral hygiene

Remember, the very best defense to bad breath in Reno is a good dental care routine – brushing, flossing, and regular visits with your dentist.
If you struggle with bad breath regardless of vigilant oral hygiene, ask your dentist for help in identifying the source. It may be an issue outside of the oral cavity. If this is the case, your dentist may refer you to your family physician or a specialist.

If you don’t have a regular dentist or are not happy with your current one, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sykes at The Reno Dentist. The knowledgeable team of dental professionals at The Reno Dentist provide the full spectrum of general and cosmetic dental services including root canals, wisdom teeth extraction, and dentures.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

 

Family Dentist Near Spanish Springs: Tonsil Questions?

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, Oral Health

family dentist near spanish springsToday, we are going to focus on the two lumps of soft tissue in the back of the throat, the tonsils. Your tonsils sit at the base of the tongue, one on each side. They are part of the body’s lymphatic system, and as such, they are part of your immune system. If you find that you’re having trouble locating your tonsils, ask our family dentist near Spanish Springs to point them out for you.

What Are Tonsils?

Tonsils are made of infection-fighting tissue known as lymphocytes, but, in many cases, tonsils aren’t really that capable at their job of germ killing and ridding the body of toxins. Bacteria, mucus, and dead cells can get trapped on the outside of your tonsils. If this debris accumulates and becomes concentrated, white formations can occur in the pockets. In rare cases, it hardens and becomes a tonsil stone or tonsillolith.

Here are some signs of tonsil infection:

  • Bad breath
  • Sore throat
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Ear pain
  • Swelling of tonsils

Some people have persistent tonsil infections that eventually require surgical removal of their tonsils. If your tonsils begin to hurt, it’s essential to discuss treatment with a family dentist near Spanish Springs.

Young children may have difficulty describing where the pain is coming from. If your youngster has frequent sore throats, have your pediatrician check their tonsils. Regular visits with a pediatrician are vital for your child. Regular dental check-ups with a family dentist near Spanish Springs are just as important. If your young child has never seen a dentist, or if you are new to the area and don’t have a children’s dentist, call The Reno Dentist at 775-323-0700 to schedule an appointment. We also provide other dental services, like teeth whitening, gum disease treatment, and dental implants.

We look forward to meeting you and your youngster.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

 

Family Dentist in Reno: Does Your Teen Have Unique Dental Challenges?

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

family dentist in reno

When it comes to oral health, adolescence is a pivotal time for individuals. The last of the permanent teeth come in providing young men and women with their “adult smile.” Good habits can be forged and reinforced. Teeth can be corrected with a family dentist in Reno, providing increased confidence in teenage patients.

Advice from a Family Dentist in Reno

On the downside, some adolescents take up habits that are dangerous for their teeth. Adolescents often don’t understand the importance of proper dental hygiene and how it influences lifelong oral health. Some young Reno men and women develop teenage dental cavities that can cause recurring dental problems in later years.

Unfortunately, eating disorders are far too common among youth. Bulimia can cause enamel erosion, decay, and even complete tooth loss. We strongly urge parents to intervene immediately and seek appropriate medical care if they suspect their teen has an eating disorder.

The importance of diet cannot be overstated by your family dentist in Reno. Adolescence is a time when many young men and women decrease their calcium intake—a danger to both bones and teeth. The consumption of energy drinks and soda also contribute to tooth and gum problems in teenagers. Additionally, adolescents that use tobacco and illegal drugs have an increased risk of cavities and oral cancer.

Properly Cleaning

Teens who are undergoing orthodontic treatment often have a difficult time properly cleaning their teeth. It is a challenge to fit toothbrush bristles and floss under dental hardware. Toothbrushes and flossing devices that squirt water can help adolescents with braces adequately clean their teeth and gums.

The Reno Dentist advises Nevada parents to make sure their teenagers receive twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings. Your family dentist in Reno can identify and treat oral issues in their early stages so that further damage can be prevented or minimized.

To schedule an intensive teen dental examination and cleaning, call The Reno Dentist at 775-323-0700. The team of knowledgeable dental professionals at The Reno Dentist is enthusiastic about oral health for Reno children and teens. We offer services such as teeth whitening, Invisalign clear braces, and six-month-smiles.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

 

Family Dentist in Reno: Sealants Prevent Cavities For Kids

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Categories: Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

family dentist in reno Your child’s first dental exam at The Reno Dentist should occur when their first teeth come in, usually between six months and one year of age. During your child’s first check-up with a family dentist in Reno, we can discuss sealants, a clear layer of plastic applied to the grooved surfaces of the teeth.

What Do Sealants Do?

Sealants protect the teeth and prevent cavities by filling in the crevasses where food particles can get caught and breed harmful bacteria They are especially effective in your child’s back teeth, where most cavities occur.

The application process takes only one short visit with your family dentist in Reno. Firstly, the teeth are cleaned and dried. Next the liquid sealant is applied to the teeth and hardened: it’s quick and painless. Your child will be able to eat right after the appointment.

Will Insurance Cover Sealants?

Sealants are covered by most Nevada dental insurance plans. For Sparks parents who pay out-of-pocket, sealants are still cost-effective considering the cavities that could be avoided in the future. Some Nevada dental insurance plans have age limitations for sealants, so check your policy if you are unsure of the qualifications. The Reno Dentist typically recommends having sealants applied as early as possible. If properly cared for, The Reno Dentist sealants can last for many years, protecting your child during the most cavity-prone ages.

Too help the sealants last longer, parents should ensure that their child keeps diligent oral hygiene and refrains from biting into hard objects. Our family dentist in Reno will inspect the sealants during routine dental visits and recommend re-application or repair if necessary.

The Reno Dentist dental visits are important for pediatric dental health, so be sure to bring in your child at least twice a year. For more details about sealants, contact The Reno Dentist today.

We also offer other dentistry services, such as root canals, wisdom teeth extraction, and gum disease treatment. We can make you look and feel great, so be sure to schedule 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

 

3 Reliable Steps To Find The Best Dentist in Reno, Nevada

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

dentist in reno nevada

Looking for the best dentist in Reno? You can click around on the computer or watch for postcard ads in your mailbox. Even then, the outcome is shaky at best. Finding the best dentist in Reno truly hinges on what you are looking for. Are you looking for consistent, professional evaluation? Looking for an honest, straightforward diagnosis and treatment proposal? Are you looking for economical dental care without a background agenda?

Don’t let the myriad of dentists throughout Nevada overwhelm you. Today we are offering 3 reliable steps for finding a dentist who will expertly serve your family’s dental needs in comfort and style.

Step 1

Pick up the phone. Contact our knowledgeable staff at The Reno Dentist for your best appointment of the year, a dental checkup with Dr. Shane Sykes. Our office offers competitive pricing to go with professional, educated experience. Furthermore, the needs of our patients are extremely important to us. From dentures to Invisalign, from root canals to porcelain veneers. Providing quality services can make your experience reliable and fast.

Step 2

Make the appointment. Researching a general and cosmetic dental practices starts with a consultation. An evaluation of what your teeth need, what your smile could use and what your budget can afford. These are all key pieces of the puzzle. If you’re looking for a dentist in Reno, The Reno Dentist is proudly equipped to handle cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, restorative dentistry and everything in between.

Step 3

Meet the good doctor. Dr. Sykes has a friendly and comfortable chair side manner. She concisely and fully explains all of the procedures and possibilities and performs superb dental work day in and day out. Expect to see the smile you’ve dreamed of, to meet with a professional, and to receive a talented service.

Finding a dentist that will bring a smile to your face and put you at ease is just a click away at The Reno Dentist. To book an appointment, call our office number or leave us a message online.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

 

Missing Teeth? Dental Implants in Reno

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

Dental implants are permanent replacements for missing teeth. If you are missing one or more of your natural teeth, The Reno Dentist might just have the answer to your prayers.

No less an authority than the American Dental Association has said that dental implants are one of the biggest advances in dentistry in the last four decades. That is probably not an overstatement. Unlike bridges or dentures, implants become a part of the patient, and function like natural teeth.

In a basic dental implant, a titanium post is surgically embedded into the patient’s jaw. This is the actual implant; an artificial replacement tooth goes on top of it.

Dental implants can also be used to anchor or stabilize dentures, in patients who are missing all of their teeth.

Of course, there is always a catch. In this case, you have to have enough healthy bone to support the implant. Even if you don’t, though, it is possible to add bone with a procedure called bone grafting.

If you’re missing any teeth, you can find out whether a dental implant would work for you by calling The Reno Dentist and scheduling a consultation. We also provide general and family dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

Stay In The Game: General Dentistry in Reno

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry

Spanish Springs cosmetic dental and tooth implantsAs a general dentistry practice, we are partners in the oral health of each of our patients. The Reno Dentist provides all of your dental needs, from checkups and cleanings to fillings, and even cosmetic dentistry.

Your dental health has a direct impact on your overall health, and how you function in your daily activities. This is true whether you’re an ordinary person or an elite athlete. It’s hard to win a gold medal if you have a toothache.

A recent study cited in the British Journal of Sports Medicine explored how poor oral health affects athletic performance at the elite level. “More than 40% of athletes were bothered by their oral health with 28% reporting an impact on quality of life and 18% on training and performance.”1

The dental troubles experienced by Olympians and professional athletes are not any different than those found in the general population: tooth decay, dental erosion, periodontal disease, and inflammation around partially erupted wisdom teeth. It’s important to note that these issues are largely preventable.

Whether you are an Olympic runner or a busy mom who seems to be running all the time, dental health affects your overall health and quality of life. Don’t let your performance suffer because of poor oral health.

The Reno Dentist provide general and family dentistry. We also provide restorative and cosmetic dentistry, with such in-demand procedures as teeth whitening. Call today to schedule an appointment.

1 Ashley, Di Iorio, Cole, Tanday, Needleman, “Oral health of elite athletes and association with performance: a systematic review,” British Journal of Sports Medicine, November 11, 2014, http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/early/2014/11/11/bjsports-2014-093617.full?g=w_bjsm_open_tab, accessed on December 19, 2014

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

 

Gum Disease and Diabetes: The Reno Dentist

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

gum disease increases diabetes risk Reno

Scientists have known for quite some time that people with diabetes have higher rates of gum disease. At The Reno Dentist, we are concerned with the connection between diabetes and oral health.

Our patients with diabetes know that maintaining proper blood glucose levels is the key to minimizing the risk of gum disease and related troubles for those affected.

Additional research is exploring the reverse relationship. In other words, whether poor oral health increases the risk of developing diabetes. Findings from a long-term study suggests that it does.

“We found that over two decades of follow-up, individuals who had periodontal disease were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life when compared to individuals without periodontal disease.” -Ryan T. Demmer, PhD, MPH.[1]

Additional trials are exploring how tooth and gum health jolts the ability of diabetics to manage the disease.

“Not only are people with diabetes more susceptible to serious gum disease, but serious gum disease may have the potential to affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of diabetes.” [2]

If you have diabetes, it is essential that you see your dentist regularly, and are committed to daily oral hygiene, proper nutrition, and other critical practices. Furthermore, your success in controlling your blood glucose levels will improve your oral health and vice-versa.

The Reno Dentist practices general and family dentistry, and also treats gum disease. We also provide cosmetic dentistry, and treat headaches. Schedule an appointment with us today.

1Angelo Milone, “Does periodontal disease cause type 2 diabetes?,” Endocrine Today, November 2008, http://www.healio.com/endocrinology/diabetes/news/print/endocrine-today/%7Bacdccbd7-a2b2-4a9e-ac08-b29b53116908%7D/does-periodontal-disease-cause-type-2-diabetes, accessed August 12, 2015
2“Diabetes and Oral Health Problems,” American Diabetes Association, September 18, 2012, http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/oral-health-and-hygiene/diabetes-and-oral-health.html#sthash.9IlHJB8l.dpuf, accessed August 12, 2015

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503