Ignoring It Won’t Make It Go Away

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/


Cavity Fighting Chewing Gum For Our Reno Patients?

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.


Dental Specialties Available In Sparks NV

General Dentistry Sparks NV General dentists in the Sparks NV area are trained in a wide variety of dental procedures. However, sometimes, your family dentist will refer you to a local Sparks NV specialist, or include a specialist as part of your treatment team.

Following are some of the most common dental specialties found in the Sparks NV area:

Endodontists
Endodontists specialize in root canal therapy and other procedures involving the root and surrounding parts of the tooth.

Periodontists
Periodontists practicing in the Sparks NV area treat the conditions affecting gum tissue and the bone surrounding the teeth. If you have gingivitis or more advanced periodontal disease, you may be referred to a periodontist.

Prosthodontists
Repairing damaged teeth and replacing lost teeth for Sparks NV patients is called ‘restorative dentistry‘. Prosthodontists have advanced training in procedures involving crowns, dental implants, bridges, veneers, inlays, and partial or complete dentures.

Pediatric Dentists
Infants, young children and teenagers in the Sparks NV area have different dental needs than adults. Pediatric dentists undergo additional training in the diagnosis and treatment of dental diseases affecting the youngest population in Sparks NV.

Oral Surgeons
Oral Surgeons serving the Sparks NV area perform surgical procedures involving the teeth, mouth and jaw. These include dental implants, surgery to repair damage due to injury, tumor surgery, and cleft lip and palate reconstruction.

Dr. Shane Sykes is skilled in many of the above procedures, so talk to us first. If you are interested in learning more about these specialties, or have a concern regarding your oral health, please visit us at The Reno Dentist. You will find us at 855 W Seventh St Ste 200 in Reno Nevada 89503. Please give us a call at 775-323-0700.

-Shane Sykes, DMD


Bright Purple Mouth When You Smile In Reno?

Invisalign Reno Remember when Reno adolescents undergoing orthodontic treatment were mortified by their metal mouth? Thankfully, those days are over. The teens of today wear their braces proudly and make no effort to hide them. They know they don’t need to wait until their teeth are aligned to flaunt a striking smile; they enjoy flashing their brightly-colored braces in all their glory.

Another plus? Just as they mix and match their clothes and shoes, teens can change their wires and bands every time they visit their Reno family dentist or orthodontist. Braces have become another fun way for fashion-forward teens to express their personality.

Of course, there are still some kids (and many adults!) that are not thrilled about having metallic fuchsia bands and neon yellow wires adorning their teeth. Discrete Invisalign aligners are virtually undetectable and straighten teeth just as quickly and effectively as metal braces. Another benefit of the Invisalign system is that the aligners are not permanently attached to the teeth. Invisalign aligners are easily slipped out for brushing, flossing, meals, and sports. If your Reno child plays a musical instrument that defies traditional braces, removable aligners may be the best option.

If you or one of your children need orthodontic treatment in the Reno area, call The Reno Dentist at 775-323-0700 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shane Sykes. The Reno Dentist is located at 855 W Seventh St Ste 200, Reno NV. We also provide comprehensive restorative and cosmetic dentistry. If you need affordable state-of-the-art dental care in Reno, let us tell you about our financing options.

Whatever your age, if you want to straighten your teeth, we have clear braces that will match every outfit in your closet!


Tooth Whitening Dentistry In Reno

Teeth Whitening Reno

Teeth whitening has really taken off in Reno. It has become a popular dental procedure and can provide excellent results if done properly.

There are a lot of options when it comes to tooth whitening. You can choose from a selection of over-the-counter options that you can get at your local pharmacy, or can go to a professional to get a complete tooth bleaching solution.

It is a good idea to consult with your family dentist before a tooth whitening, regardless of whether you choose to use an over-the-counter product. Your dentist will be able to help you understand the results you can expect, and can help recommend a product that will work for you.

There are many variables when it comes to tooth whitening. The color of your teeth at the beginning of your treatment will make a difference for your ending result. Different tooth whitening treatments will each produce a different result. Your Reno cosmetic dentist has experience with tooth coloration and the types of treatments available.

In many cases, your Reno dentist will be able to provide you with a tooth whitening solution that you can take home with you. In some cases, your Reno dentist may recommend a professional treatment that is done at the dentist’s office.

Professional tooth whitening can produce dramatic results in a single treatment, and is often done over a few treatments.

Tooth whitening is less expensive than it was in the earlier days of tooth whitening technology. Today, tooth whitening treatments are very affordable, and don’t take the time they used to.

If you are interested in a teeth whitening consultation in the Reno area, please call The Reno Dentist and make an appointment to see me. I will be happy to give you a check up, assess your tooth color, and recommend tooth whitening treatments that may be right for you.

-Dr. Shane Sykes


Dental Sealants – Another Tool For Cavity Prevention In Sparks NV

Family Dentistry Sparks NV

General dentistry patients in the Sparks NV area know that regular brushing and flossing are essential for optimal oral health. However, the bristles of your toothbrush can’t reach into every small groove and depression in your teeth, especially the really bumpy back teeth. That’s where sealants can be invaluable.

Dental sealants are a plastic material that is applied by your Sparks NV dentist. This material is a resin that bonds to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, mainly in the pits and fissures. The plastic acts as a shield against acids and plaque so that the tooth enamel is protected.

Many Sparks NV residents might think that sealants are only for children and teenagers, but they can actually be beneficial for adults as well. If you are wondering if sealants are right for you, speak with your Sparks NV family dentist. This simple dental procedure can dramatically improve your oral health by protecting the surfaces that are particularly vulnerable to decay.

Many Sparks NV dental insurance providers include dental sealants as a covered benefit, so check with your provider if you are considering them. If you don’t have dental insurance, ask us about financing options. Because they can prevent cavities, dental sealants can save you money in the long run.

I’m Dr. Shane Sykes, a general and cosmetic dentist and I want to thank you for visiting my dental blog. At our office we serve the Sparks area by offering:

  • cosmetic dentistry
  • dental implants
  • general dentistry
  • wisdom teeth extraction
  • root canals

If you have any questions about these or other cosmetic dental procedures or would like to schedule an appointment, call us today at 775-323-0700.  Our knowledgeable staff would be happy to assist you.

Dr. Shane Sykes
The Reno Dentist
855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada

775-323-0700


Treating Bite Problems in Reno

TMJ Reno Malocclusions (bite problems) include overbites, underbites and crossbites. Jaw alignment disorders restrict proper chewing, talking, and swallowing. They can also cause teeth to shift around in the mouth. Reno cosmetic dentistry patients with bite problems are at a greater risk for tooth decay and periodontal disease because bite misalignment often makes it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene.

When the lower jaw is smaller than the upper jaw, it is called an overbite. When the situation is reversed, it is called an underbite. Crossbite occurs when lower teeth are in the wrong position.

Bite problems can cause headaches and TMJ pain. Some Reno dental patients with severe bite problems develop a distorted facial shape and damaged teeth.

If you suspect your toddler or older child has a bite problem, it is important to see your Reno family dentist as soon as possible. Bite issues and their various related problems get worse over time.

At The Reno Dentist, we diagnose and successfully treat bite problems in addition to providing general and cosmetic dentistry. We can be reached at 775-323-0700. Our office is located at 855 W Seventh St Ste 200 in Reno. You can find out more about us at https://therenodentist.com/.

Most of our patients live in Reno or the nearby communities. If you have recently moved into the Reno area and need a skilled family and cosmetic dentist, come visit our knowledgeable team. We pamper every patient and make dental visits as comfortable as possible.


Questions To Ask Your Reno Dentist

Questions To Ask Your Reno Dentist Sometimes we research our Reno mechanic or hairdresser more thoroughly than our Reno dental professional. Shouldn’t your dental care be far more important than the condition of your car or the style of your hair? At The Reno Dentist, we love to answer questions about your teeth. You should be asking your Reno family dentist any question you have about the care and status of your teeth.

For instance, you may have questions about the school of dentistry and dental specialties studied. Though important, dentistry school is not the only place to gain dental experience, however. Dr. Shane Sykes has years of experience performing complex dental procedures.

You should also be asking about the dentistry specialties your Reno dentist offers such as restorative dentistry, clear braces and Lumineers. These services may not be important to you now, but it is a good idea to have an understanding of your options, and to know what your Reno dentist has to offer.

If you are contemplating smile restoration, tooth implants, or teeth whitening, evaluate Reno cosmetic dentistry options with your dentist. Look at before and after pictures, and ask your dentist what procedures may be right for you.

General dentists offer a variety of dental services such as tooth extractions and tooth fillings, and can treat every member of the family. At The Reno Dentist, we specialize in cosmetic dentistry, general dentistry and restorative dentistry.

You have many choices for your Reno dentistry. We welcome questions about all aspects of our The Reno Dentist practice. Visit us at 855 W Seventh St Ste 200 in Reno and talk to a member of our knowledgeable team.

Visit our Reno dentistry website at https://therenodentist.com/.


Reno Tooth Whitening For Whiter Smiles

Reno Tooth Whitening For Whiter Smiles When it comes to cosmetic dentistry in Reno, tooth whitening is one of the easiest and rewarding procedures. There are also a lot of tooth bleaching options for those of us in the area. How do you find a good tooth whitening procedure?

Visiting your local Reno dentist is a good start!

Whitening your teeth is an advanced dental procedure that you won’t want to get wrong on the first try. That’s why I always recommend a visit to The Reno Dentist (our dental practice) to visit with me and talk about it. I’m Shane Sykes, and as a Reno family dentist, I am not only experienced with tooth whitening procedures, but care about your teeth and your smile. I can recommend tooth whitening procedures based on your age, dental hygiene, and personal goals.

Most importantly, I can help you assess the condition of your teeth and help you understand what to expect and how to care for your teeth once they are whitened.

Many of our Reno patients ask about teeth whitening. In fact it is one of our most popular dental procedures. There are many tooth whitening options, ranging from the kind you will perform at home to professional tooth whitening procedures we can do right here in our Reno cosmetic and general dentistry office. The one best for you can depend on many factors, starting with the color of your teeth, and how white you want your teeth to be after the procedure.

Consulting with your Reno dentist before you begin a tooth whitening procedure has several advantages. Among the advantages are professional care, experienced advice, and reliable recommendations for which tooth whitening procedure will be best for you.

If you are contemplating a tooth whitening procedure, and you live in the Reno area, come in and visit with me for just a few minutes. We’ll discuss your goals, the options that are available to you, and the results you can expect. You will be much happier with your results with the advantage of professional advice.

I look forward to hearing from you. Call 775-323-0700.

-Dr. Shane Sykes, The Reno Dentist


Tooth Sensitivity Treatment in Reno

Tooth Sensitivity Treatment in Reno Have you ever been eating an ice cream cone in Reno when you felt a sudden jolt of pain in one of your teeth? If the enamel is eroded, or the gums have receded, the dentin layer of the tooth is exposed. The substances that cause tooth pain travel to the pulp where the nerves of the tooth are located. Ouch!

Tooth sensitivity can be a signal that something is wrong. It may be caused by periodontal disease or bacteria build-up in a crack in a tooth.

Enamel erosion can be caused by a number of factors including acidic foods and drinks, teeth grinding, or cracked teeth. If your teeth are sensitive following a professional teeth whitening such as the ones we do here at The Reno Dentist, the sensitivity will probably be gone in a few weeks.

Surprisingly, one cause of gum recession for our Reno patients is brushing too hard. That’s right; it is possible to brush too hard!

If you experience constant or intermittent pain in your teeth or gums, call 775-323-0700 right away to make an appointment. Family dentist Dr. Shane Sykes takes tooth pain seriously.

At The Reno Dentist, we not only treat tooth sensitivity problems, we also perform entire smile makeovers for cosmetic dentistry patients in the Reno area. You’ll find us in the 89503 zip code area.

We can make you look and feel great!