What is Patient-Centered Dental Care?

cosmetic dentistry Reno

What is your perception of the patient-dentist relationship? Would you convey it as one-sided? In other words, the dentist examines the patient’s teeth, determines the course of treatment, and performs the procedure-while the patient is an unimportant participant.

It Starts With The Atmosphere

At The Reno Dentist, we don’t do things that way. You will realize the difference when you first walk in our doors. You will discover a pleasant, inviting atmosphere. We don’t push patients through as if they were on an assembly line.

We see you as a whole person, not just a disembodied mouth full of teeth. When Dr. Sykes meets with you, you will be able to talk about more than just your oral health. You will discuss your lifestyle, your past dental experiences, your goals, and your concerns. We want to create a long-term relationship with you—it benefits you and helps us do our jobs well.

We Listen

When Dr. Sykes examines a patient and finds a problem that needs dental treatment, there is rarely only one solution proposed. Dr. Sykes will take as much time as necessary to explain the options and answer your questions.

By listening carefully, communicating clearly, and asking the right questions, Dr. Sykes can fully assess the many critical factors that influence your present and future oral health.

Does This Sound Good to You?

Does patient-focused dental care make sense to you? If so, we invite you to become one of our valued patients. You can book an appointment by calling 775-323-0700.

 

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

 

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Do I Need A Dental Cleaning If I Brush And Floss At Home?

dental cleanings Reno

Today’s post focuses on professional dental cleanings. You might wonder if you need a professional dental cleaning if you already practice dental hygiene daily at home.

The answer is that both processes are critical because they work in tandem to maintain oral health.

Dr. Shane Sykes encourages patients to practice preventative dentistry by:

Brushing
Flossing
Healthy diet – fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts
Regular dental cleanings
Regular checkups

Dental cleanings increase the effectiveness of your daily oral care by removing the plaque and tartar that can accumulate regardless of daily brushing and flossing. In fact, when plaque hardens, it can only be removed with the special tools used by a hygienist.

A hygienist will first use a vibrating ultrasonic tool to dislodge the largest pieces of tartar. This process may tickle a bit. The hygienist will then use tools with finer attachments to remove the smaller pieces of calculus. When all plaque and tartar is gone, polishing is the final step in the cleaning process.

The goal is to make your tooth surfaces as smooth as possible, to prohibit food particles from lodging in little spaces that are difficult to clean. If you are having an exam during the same visit, your technician may take dental x-rays. X-rays can reveal cavities while they are small and can be easily filled.

Let your hygienist know if your teeth are sensitive so he/she can make your cleaning as comfortable as possible. After the cleaning, a fluoride treatment may be given to help strengthen your teeth.

Before your hygienist leaves, you may want to ask if there are areas you can improve. Your hygienist can tell you which tooth surfaces had the most build-up. If the back teeth are presenting a problem, you can communicate with Dr. Sykes about sealants.

If you have braces, you may want more frequent dental cleanings because food can easily lodge between the wires.

Call The Reno Dentist at 775-323-0700 to schedule a professional cleaning today! Your smile will thank you.

 

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

 

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Between-Meal Cleaning

At The Reno Dentist, we always remind our patients to brush and floss their teeth after every meal. And most of our patients take that advice to heart. But what are you supposed to do in the middle of the day? You’re out and about, and your usual stuff – that favorite toothpaste, the container of dental floss – is at home in the bathroom.

What’s the best way to keep your teeth clean between meals?

One of the best things you can do is rinse your mouth with water after you eat. That alone will give your whole mouth a quick cleansing.

A quick brushing is good, too. An excellent trick is what we call dry brushing. That means brushing your teeth without toothpaste. Yes, it sounds a bit strange – but it’s effective, especially if you can use a little water, too. (We know of other dentists who do it themselves.) It isn’t the way you would brush at home, of course, but it’s going to clean the surfaces of your teeth – and that’s half the battle.

The other half of the battle is the stuff that gets between your teeth. A good solution here is using floss picks. They’re no substitute for regular dental floss, but because they have a little handle, you can do it one-handed and without the aid of a mirror. (Just be sure you use regular floss later on, before bed.)

Another effective trick is chewing sugarless gum. It only takes about five minutes of chewing to get the benefits. The gum will remove a lot of the surface debris from your teeth. It also gets your saliva going, which in turn promotes re-mineralization. That’s the process of replacing minerals in your teeth.

Still another good idea is to eat healthy snacks. Raw vegetables and nuts are always a better choice than a cookie or candy bar, or some other sugary treat. Not only that, these rough-textured foods help to scrub your teeth as you chew.

At The Reno Dentist, we want each of our patients to keep their teeth clean during the day, and hope these suggestions help. We would also like to see you in the office every six months. Our services include general and family dentistry, and a range of cosmetic dentistry services. Call today to schedule your next checkup.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

 


Five Facts About Enamel Erosion

enamel erosion treatment Reno

Our teeth work hard and are constantly under assault. At The Reno Dentist, your dental health is always our top priority, which is why we educate our patients about how to keep their enamel strong and halt additional erosion if some has already occurred.

Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body. Sadly, enamel erosion is extremely pervasive, though largely preventable. Enamel’s chief enemies are acidic foods and beverages. Other factors that can weaken enamel or wear it away are some medications, tooth grinding, acid reflux, gastrointestinal conditions, chewing ice or other hard substances, and eating disorders.

Here are five quick facts about enamel erosion:

  1. Enamel is unlike many other tissues in the body; once it is gone, it can’t be regenerated.
  2. According to the NIH, 41% of youth already have enamel erosion.
  3. Brushing too-forcefully can damage enamel.
  4. Diet sodas, sports drinks, and energy drinks are just as harmful as sugared sodas.
  5. Dry mouth can weaken enamel because it results in less saliva, which helps keep enamel healthy and strong.

If you have already experienced enamel erosion, it’s vital to halt continued erosion. There are several dental procedures that can protect the teeth that have been affected. Call The Reno Dentist in Reno NV to schedule an appointment. Our services include geneal and family dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry. Call today!

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

 

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How Does Pregnancy Impact Oral Health in Reno

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?

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


Treat Your Beautiful Smile in Reno to a Healthy Diet

experienced family dentist Reno Beautiful Smile in Reno

Proper nutrition can benefit you in a number of ways such as increased energy, improved immunity, glowing skin, mental clarity, and a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. How often, however, do you consider how your diet impacts your beautiful smile in Reno?

Your diet can impact your risk of cavities, enamel health, and gum condition. Healthy foods provide an environment that can prevent inflammation and infection. Vegetables, fruits, legumes, and nuts are the ideal choices for oral health. Calcium-fortified beverages, milk, and other dairy products provide vitamins, minerals, and calcium that helps with keeping teeth, bones, and gums healthy. Eating crispy fruits and vegetables, such as apples and celery, will help clean your teeth and gums, which will, in turn, improve your beautiful smile in Reno.

A healthy diet contains all the vital vitamins and minerals, and the most important mineral for teeth is fluoride. Don’t forget, however, that too much fluoride is dangerous. Dr. Sykes can advise you on the exact dosage of fluoride for your child, taking into account whether your municipal water is fluoridated. Even though adults’ teeth have already formed, fluoride aids in remineralizing weakened enamel to a degree. This powerful mineral is applied to teeth during comprehensive dental cleanings at The Reno Dentist and daily with fluoride toothpaste.

Bacteria that causes enamel-destroying plaque loves a steady diet of sugar—from soda, candy, and even fruit juices. When enamel wears away, the teeth become vulnerable to decay, cracks, and discoloration. Sugary foods that are especially dangerous are those that get trapped in the spaces between teeth and the little pits and cracks in the molars. Candies that are chewy or hard can lodge in these spaces and allow for the adverse sugar to have direct contact with enamel until brushing occurs. Be sure to brush after each meal and before bed. In addition, remember to floss or use a water irrigating method to dislodge food particles trapped in spaces. By eating well, brushing properly, flossing regularly, and avoiding foods that stick to your teeth, you can have a beautiful smile in Reno.

At our practice, we have a full-service dental practice in Reno. Helping our dental patients stay healthy is important to us, and so is helping them achieve the smile they want through cosmetic dentistry procedures such as veneers, teeth whitening, and smile makeovers. The Reno Dentist in Reno has been serving the Sparks area since 2011. Please contact us at 775-323-0700 if you are looking for quality dental care from a local Reno dentist with the experience, expertise, and personalized attention you deserve.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503


How Inflammation Affects Your Oral Health in Reno

inflamed gums Reno

Swollen and painful gums are symptoms of periodontal disease, an inflammatory gum disease. Swelling occurs from an auto-immune response of the body reacting to an infection. Infections are noticeable through pain, redness, and warmth. If the infection is left untreated, it can affect oral health in Reno. The body’s immune system wants to rid the bone of the harmful material the bacteria is creating. Over time, bone loss can develop.

Inflammation in the gums also is associated with atherosclerosis, the occurrence of fatty deposits inside of the body’s arteries. Inflammation coincides with an increase of the blood protein CRP (C-reactive protein), produced by the liver. The more inflammation there is, the more the liver produces CRP. The more CRP present, the more likely cardiovascular disease is present, along with related problems. CRP production is also related to arthritis, auto-immune disorders, and intestinal troubles.

Scientists are currently looking into the relationship between periodontal inflammation and CRP level and the effects outside of the oral cavity. Links have already been discovered between periodontal disease and pancreatic cancer, heart disease, and stroke. If inflammation is left untreated, gums can develop pockets that provide the perfect breeding ground for infection. The longer the infection persists, the more likely bone loss will ensue, eventually causing tooth loss.

It is crucial to practice preventive dental care daily at home and have regular visits to the dentist. Dental appointments should include an exam, cleaning, and full mouth x-rays, along with the important knowledge and instruction on how to properly care for oral health in Reno. It is also very important to see your dentist promptly if a tooth suddenly becomes sensitive or you experience any other changes. If you’re looking for a dentist in the area, we also offer general and cosmetic dentistry. Thanks for visiting our blog. For more details about oral health in Reno, give us a call at 775-323-0700.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503


Sleep Apnea Treatment in Reno: You Should Take Snoring Seriously

cost of dental crowns Sparks Sleep Apnea Treatment in Reno

What is Snoring? Snoring is caused by an obstruction that restricts the flow of air in the throat. Snoring isn’t just an annoyance. It can have considerable health consequences. The obstruction can typically be caused by:

  • Poor muscle tone in the throat and tongue—when muscles relax they can collapse onto the airway. Alcohol use and sleeping pills can make this more likely.
  • Thick throat tissue—Excess weight can be a contributing factor.
  • Swollen tonsils and adenoids—Most common in children.
  • Long uvula or soft palate
  • Nasal congestion
  • Deviated septum

Those who snore may have a condition called sleep apnea—a potentially health-threatening condition in which your breathing lapses while you are snoozing. This can occur hundreds of times at night. If your snoring keeps your bed partner from sleeping, his or her health is also affected. Failure to get enough quality sleep contributes to a myriad of physical and mental conditions.

You Could Benefit from Sleep Apnea Treatment in Reno

Most of us have experienced trouble concentrating when we haven’t gotten enough sleep. Did you know that can limit a person’s motor function and reaction time as seriously as intoxication? Other possible health problems related to insufficient sleep include heart disease, obesity, depression, and diabetes. So why is a post about snoring and sleep deprivation in a dental blog? That’s because your dentist can offer you sleep apnea treatment in Reno.

What Are You Waiting For?

Our outstanding staff works very hard to preserve our reputation as a world-class dental office. Furthermore, our office is known for being clean and friendly. We don’t just walk away after our procedure is handled. We follow through with special instructions, follow up appointments, and careful monitoring of the sleep apnea treatment in Reno. Preventing complications is a top priority. If you suspect that you suffer from either snoring or sleep apnea, we invite you to set up an appointment today. We also offer services such as cosmetic dentistry and root canal therapy.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503


Questions About Bad Breath in Reno

Reno bad breath exam bad breath in reno

Today’s post in The Reno Dentist blog offers some answers to frequently asked questions about bad breath in Reno. If you have a dental health concern, feel free to call us at 775-323-0700 to schedule an examination or dental consultation. Our team would be happy to help you improve your oral health.

Q. My wife says my breath is horrible, but I brush twice a day. Shouldn’t that be enough?
A. Bacteria can propagate and stink in hidden crevices that can only be reached with floss. Time to start flossing. If your bad breath in Reno hasn’t improved in a few months, make an appointment so we can discuss other possible causes of your halitosis.

Also, keep in mind that brushing just the teeth may not remove food particles between the teeth and up in the gums. Gently brushing the gums, sides of the mouth and the tongue in addition to the teeth may make the difference.

Q. My breath seems to get worse during hay fever season. What’s up with that?
A. Allergies can change mouth odor in a couple of ways. First, anything that stimulates post-nasal drip can be a trigger because bacteria at the back of the throat mixes with the mucous and emits a smelly odor as it breaks down. Second, hay fever medications often cause dry mouth which can result in stinky breath. Antihistamines can lessen post-nasal drip so this is a catch-22. If you take antihistamines, drink water frequently throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated, suck on sugar-free mints to stimulate saliva production and rinse with a non-alcohol mouth rinse.

Q. What health conditions can bring about bad breath in Reno?
A. As considered before, any condition that decreases saliva creation can cause halitosis. It is also a frequent side effect of diabetes, kidney failure, and liver failure. Of course, if your kidneys or liver is failing, then you should immediately seek medical attention.

Q. Why did my breath become offensive when I went on a strict low-carb diet?
A. Ketones were most likely the culprit. Ketones are produced when the body digests fat—which is usually the goal of a low-carb plan. On the flip side, sounds like your doing great with your new diet!

If you’re interested in dental services such as cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, root canals, sleep apnea treatment, or Invisalign clear braces, then give our office a call. Our friendly team would be happy to help you improve your smile. We are located in Reno, Nevada, but we also serve patients in Sparks, Spanish Springs, and Carson City.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503