Is Malocclusion Causing Your Headache?

End Migraine Headaches In Reno Are you a Reno area adult who suffers with chronic headaches? Have you tried Imitrex, diet adjustments, and chiropractic treatment? Perhaps the cause is not stress-induced tension, spine alignment or eyestrain. Maybe the culprit is right under your nose.

Bite misalignment or malocclusion is a common Reno problem that often goes undetected. Nature intended the front teeth to fit slightly forward from the lower teeth. With a perfect bite, the molars fit together like precision gears.

Malocclusion can cause headaches, tooth loosening, tooth fracture, and in extreme cases, difficulty chewing, speaking or breathing.

Clear braces are an effective solution for most bite problems. Braces not only move teeth, they can also correct the position and function of the joints, muscles and bones in the jaw. In cases of extreme malocclusion or TMD, jaw surgery may be necessary.

Not all Reno and Sparks NV area family dentists treat bite problems. At The Reno Dentist we treat all types of malocclusion including overbite, underbite and crossbite. For an affordable Reno general dentistry consultation, call us at 775-323-0700.

The Reno Dentist offers technologically-advanced dentistry in a friendly environment. We offer smile whitening, veneers, tooth-colored fillings and dental implants. To learn more about our dental philosophy and available procedures, see https://therenodentist.com/about/our-office/.

Dr. Shane Sykes is a proud member of the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society.


3 Ways To Keep Your Mouth Happy, Reno!

Family Dentistry Reno

Hi. I’m Dr. Shane Sykes, a general and cosmetic dentist here in Reno. It is my goal to help my patients have optimum oral health, and today I would like to talk about something else associated with our mouths that doesn’t get as much attention as cavities or cosmetic dentistry: it’s our sense of taste.

A happy mouth is not only a healthy mouth, but also a mouth that can enjoy the flavors of all types of foods. And it turns out that many of the habits that will keep your taste buds sensitive are those that will also be good for your teeth and gums. So here are a few tips to help you better enjoy the flavor of your food.

1) Treat dry mouth. Dry mouth can create a loss of taste sensitivity, so it should be treated quickly by your Sparks NV area family dentist. Plus, optimal levels of saliva are important to avoid cavities and keep gums healthy.

2) Avoid processed foods with fake flavors and too much sugar and salt. They will quickly desensitized you to more subtle, healthy flavors.

3) Don’t smoke! Cigarettes are responsible for so many horrible health issues, but many people don’t realize that their sense of taste is dulled while they smoke and the olfactory nerves can even be damaged permanently.

Thank you so much for visiting the Reno dentist blog. Along with dental health and a keen sense of taste, I want my patients to have the beautiful smile they have always desired. So, if you have any questions regarding cosmetic dentistry such as smile makeovers, dental implants or teeth whitening, please contact us. We are located at 855 W Seventh St Ste 200 and you can reach us for an appointment at 775-323-0700.

Call a member of our knowledgeable staff today!

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


Does My Reno Dentist Care About My Diet?

General Dentistry and Diet In Reno When people in the Reno area think of diet and oral health, they probably think about the damage sweet drinks can cause to teeth. While it’s true that these sugars cause increased acidity in the mouth and lead to tooth decay, soda and sugary-fruit drinks are only part of the issue.

The typical American diet tends to be high in calories and low in nutrition, even here in Reno and Sparks NV.

If your body is lacking in certain nutrients, the tissues in the mouth may have trouble resisting infection. These infections can lead to gum disease.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has recently unveiled the MyPlate graphic to illustrate a healthy diet. Half of our meals should be composed of fruits and vegetables and the rest should be equally divided between lean protein, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.

While this is an excellent resource, dietary needs change throughout life, so it’s a good idea to call us at 775-323-0700 and schedule a check-up with Reno dentist Dr. Shane Sykes to see if your diet is affecting your teeth.

When you eat a balanced diet and feel your best, you’ll want to look your best, so be sure to ask our knowledgeable staff about the latest cosmetic dentistry procedures such as complete smile makeovers and same day restorations.

At The Reno Dentist, our menu of services includes crowns, veneers, inlays, onlays, dental implants, tooth colored fillings, sealants, teeth whitening, and clear braces.

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


No One Will Know You Are Wearing Braces In Reno

Clear Braces Reno

Many Reno adults dream of having a celebrity smile, but for some, the thought of enduring months or years with a mouth full of metal thwarts those dreams. If you live in the Reno area and don’t want to sport old-school metal braces, we are happy to report that there is a better way.

There are now contemporary, metal-free approaches to straightening crooked teeth. Custom Invisalign braces that are worn over teeth are now available in Reno. When you smile, nobody in Reno will know that your teeth are slowly and gently being corrected. The busy lifestyle you lead will not be hampered because invisible braces are so simple and convenient. The comfortable aligners allow you to eat anything you want and caring for your teeth will not become cumbersome. Reno neighbors will notice your confidence and poise blossoming as your teeth are aligning.

At The Reno Dentist we have been creating alluring and appealing smiles in Nevada since 2011. We specialize in complete smile makeovers. A popular procedure that many Sparks NV area cosmetic dentistry patients depend on is teeth whitening. We offer many options including methods you can do at home.

Some of the most popular treatments at The Reno Dentist include cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and general dentistry. Whatever your dental needs are, we will create a personalized, custom treatment plan for you.


Diet Changes For Healthier Teeth In Reno

General Dentistry Reno

Hello, I am Dr. Shane Sykes of The Reno Dentist in Reno. Today’s blog topic is ‘How Your Diet Affects Your Smile.’

I’m sure you brush and floss regularly and hopefully visit your Reno cosmetic dental practice for cleanings, but did you know that making small changes to your diet can improve your oral health?

Most Reno residents are aware that sugar found in candy, cookies, and sodas can harm your teeth, but some people don’t realize that all carbohydrates can cause cavities. A handful of pretzels or a piece of pumpernickel bread can have the same effect on your teeth as a fudge brownie.

All carbohydrates break down into simple sugars, which are converted into plaque, which can then cause cavities and gum disease. Carbs are naturally sticky and adhere to your teeth. Eating carbs with meals is healthier than eating them as snacks because more saliva is generated at mealtime. Saliva helps prevent food particles from sticking to teeth.

At The Reno Dentist, I continue to see tooth damage caused by sodas and sports drinks. If you choose to drink them, sip them through a straw. By limiting the contact of these drinks on your teeth, you will help preserve your enamel.

Another way Reno folks can improve their oral health is to get 800mg of calcium a day for men and 1,000mg for women under 50. Calcium helps strengthen your jaw and secure your teeth firmly in the jaw bone.

Diet alone will not prevent cavities and gum disease for Reno folks, however, a few changes in eating habits can help maintain healthy teeth and gums.

My staff and I at The Reno Dentist are accepting new cosmetic and general dentistry patients in the 89503 zip code area. I encourage you to call 775-323-0700 today to schedule an exam and cleaning.

The Reno Dentist offers a full menu of general and specialty dental services including cosmetic dentistry and dental implants. For more information, call today to schedule an appointment or visit https://therenodentist.com/contact-us/.

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 Myths about Sparks NV Family Cosmetic 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

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?

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

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

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.