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What to Expect When You Don’t Brush Daily | Henderson Dentist

general dentistryDid you know it only takes 24 hours for plaque that is not removed from your teeth to turn into tartar? It’s scary but true. Daily home cleaning helps control plaque and tartar formation, but those hard to reach areas will always need special attention, so brushing your teeth on a daily is extremely important. If left untreated, only a dentist can help bring your smile back. At these cleaning appointments, the pocket depths will be carefully checked to ensure that they are healthy. Plaque and calculus that are difficult for you to remove on a daily basis will be removed from above and below the gum line. But that isn’t all you can expect from these important periodontal treatments:

Diagnostic x-rays. Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.

Examination of existing restorations. Check current fillings, crowns, etc.

Examination of tooth decay. Check all tooth surfaces for decay.

Oral cancer screening. Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, cheek tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.

Oral hygiene recommendations. Review and recommend oral hygiene aids as needed. (Electric toothbrushes, special periodontal brushes, fluorides, rinses, etc.)

Teeth polishing. Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

Good oral hygiene practices and periodontal cleanings are essential in maintaining dental health and keeping periodontal disease under control! Remember that prevention is the best treatment, however if you feel you need help preventing periodontal disease, do not hesitate to visit the dentist.

Schedule an appointment today with cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Simone at 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Las Vegas, Henderson, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley and all surrounding areas.

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Can You Whiten Your Smile by Eating? | Henderson Dentist

It may sound complete absurd, but according to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, certain foods naturally cleanse, brighten, and defend against bacteria that can harm your teeth and gums. We are always being told which things in our diet are bad for our smiles, like wine, smoking and dark foods. But there are actually foods that do the opposite? The following 10 foods were recommended by the academy for a healthy, brighter smile:

Pineapples can help whiten teeth. Pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain, which acts as a natural stain remover and breaks up plaque.

Ginger can protect against periodontal disease, an inflammatory process that causes the loss of bone and supportive connective tissue in your mouth.

Carrots contain vitamin A, needed for healthy tooth enamel. Eating them raw stimulates saliva, your mouth’s natural cleanser.

Basil is a natural antibiotic that reduces bacteria in the mouth.

Cheese is rich in protein, calcium, and phosphorus, all of which help reduce acid in your mouth.

Chewing sesame seeds and nuts help “scrub” away the plaque on your teeth by providing a coarse, scrubbing action. Sesame seeds also contain bone and teeth-strengthening calcium.

Shiitake mushrooms contain a compound called lentinan, which inhibits bacteria from growing in your mouth.

Onions contain the sulfur compounds, which reduce bacteria that cause tooth decay. Eat them raw; cooking will destroy these tooth-friendly compounds.

Salmon not only provides calcium but also vitamin D, another nutrient needed for healthy bones and teeth.

Broccoli contains iron, which helps form an acid-resistant film or barrier that can protect the enamel of your teeth.

Schedule an appointment today with cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Simone at 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Las Vegas, Henderson, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley and all surrounding areas.

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Inlays and Onlays: Saving Your Smile | Henderson Dentist

When you break or fracture your teeth, you will definitely need a dentist’s help. Thanks to restorative dentistry, there are a myriad of ways to go about restoring teeth. One of those restorative options include inlays and onlays.

To put it basically, inlays and onlays repair teeth that have large defective fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma. A more conservative approach compared to other options, inlays and onlays don’t require your dentist to remove as much of your natural tooth. But that’s not all. Here are other advantages to repairing your smile with inlays and onlays:

Natural looking. Inlays and onlays are aesthetically pleasing because they are made up from a porcelain and composite resin mixture, creating a natural-looking appearance.

Durable. Dental inlays and onlays are made from a stronger material than crowns. Because of this durability, they can last longer than crowns.

No expansion. Inlays and onlays won’t expand or contract the way fillings would, thus putting less stress on your teeth.

Tooth preservation. This restorative procedure doesn’t require your dentist to remove as much of your natural tooth compared to other procedures.

Hygiene. Since inlays and onlays are made for a custom fit, they’re easier to keep clean and bacteria is less likely to get into the affected area after the procedure.

As with many other dental restorations, inlays and onlays aren’t always permanent and may need replacing someday. However, with proper oral care your inlays and onlays can last for many years, giving you plenty of reason to smile.

Schedule an appointment today with cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Simone at 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Las Vegas, Henderson, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley and all surrounding areas.

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Quick Holiday Dental Tips | Las Vegas Dentist

You may be hosting a holiday party or even have special holiday events to attend, and these festivities are most likely going to have lots of appetizing food and beverages, but as you indulge the sugars you consume could be taking a toll on your teeth. Most of us know how detrimental sugar is to teeth but during these times your oral health can slip your mind, don’t let it. While indulging in the delightful food and beverages, keep these six tips in mind so you can maintain a healthy mouth this holiday season:

Healthy routine. Always brush your teeth twice a day, for two minutes. This simple routine can make a huge difference over time.

Avoid hard candy. Not only do hard candies promote tooth decay, but the act of chewing on them can lead to a cracked or chipped tooth.

Limit chewy candies. During this time of year it’s hard not to munch on chewy candy like caramel, fudge or toffee. Just remember, sticker candies take longer to get washed away by saliva and may increase risk for tooth decay.

Stay hydrated. Be sure to drink water in between consuming sugary foods and beverages to rinse away excess sugar to decrease the chances of getting a cavity.

Teeth aren’t tools. Some people get caught up in the excitement of opening gifts that they’ll use their teeth to rip tags off new items or to bite through string. Avoid using your teeth as tools because this can cause teeth to crack, chip or break.

Dentist visits. It’s important to maintain regular preventative oral care during the holidays and throughout the entire year, so take the time to schedule an appointment.

Schedule an appointment today with cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Simone at 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Las Vegas, Henderson, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley and all surrounding areas.

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Everything You Need to Know About Dental Implants | Las Vegas Dentist

When you need to have a tooth replaced, your dental professional will suggest getting a dental implant. It may sound like a drawn-out process, the idea of an implant. Not only will it restore your smile, you won’t believe it. Placing dental implants is a thorough process that involves more than one step.

In order to get a dental implant, one must be qualified to receive one. You must have enough bone in your jaw to allow and implant to be placed in the jawbone and you should be free of periodontal disease. A dental professional will administer a thorough examination to determine if you are suitable for implants.

Most implants are placed using a two-step process, although some newer implants may only need one step:

Firstly, antibiotics and pain medicine are administered to you before the procedure. Your dentist will then use local anesthesia, even sedation if necessary. You can be sedated by taking medicine by mouth or through an IV. In order to place the implants, an incision is made in your gums to expose the bone, then a hole is drilled to place the implant and stiched. In 7-10 days, you will return to have the stiches removed, then you will have to wait several months for the bone to bond with the implant.

After the implants have integrated themselves into the bone, you will approach the second step. After being given local anesthesia, a small incision will be made in the gum to expose the implant, then a healing cap will be placed to sit above your gums.

 

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Can Your Teeth Be Too White? | Las Vegas Dentist

We all know that having a bright white smile is one of the first impressions one can make. Have you ever heard the saying, “Your teeth can never be too white”? Chances are you believe this way of thinking and have taken physical perfection to another level by over doing it on their teeth whitening procedures. And there are quite a few ways to brighten your smile, making it difficult to dispute the saying. In fact, the most widely used oral products today are whitening strips and tray-based over the counter whitening kits. While tooth whitening can be a safe and effective technique, some individuals are going above the recommendations of their dentists. Therein lies the problem…

Individuals who overdo whitening techniques have noticeably “Snow White” teeth that oftentimes look unnatural. Some individuals get to the point where their teeth begin to inhibit transparent figures. Over use of whitening products will cause major tooth sensitivity and leave patients more prone to needing root canal treatments. You may be surprised to know that if you over-whiten your teeth, you are essentially wearing down your enamel and that enamel is naturally tinged in yellow, so you are making your teeth yellow by overdoing the whitening.

Don’t worry – there is hope. If you are looking for a safer, more effective form of teeth whitening, consult your dentist. They will give you an overview of certain procedures and even offer some over the counter techniques that may be used, however only if used correctly.

Schedule an appointment today with cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Simone at 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricsimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Las Vegas, Henderson, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley and all surrounding areas.

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When You Visit Your Dentist More than Twice a Year | Las Vegas Dentist

Most people already know that they should visit the dentist every six months for regular checkups and professional cleaning. However, what a lot people don’t take into consideration is that they may have to visit their dentist every now and then for treatments that go beyond a routine cleaning. This may involve dental restorations, which are different types of dental treatments. This type of dental treatment involves the restoration of either decayed, chipped, cracked, discolored or missing teeth with fillings, crowns, bridges and dental implants.

When it comes to dental restorations, you can essentially sum up the importance of them in two words – prevention and restoration. Not only do dental restorations allow dentists to treat teeth, they also prevent present infections from spreading any further. Another plus about dental restorations is that these procedures also aim to improve the aesthetics of patient’s teeth.

Having your damaged, infected or missing teeth restored or replaced doesn’t mean that you don’t have to worry about dental problems reoccurring. No matter what type of materials are used to restore or replace your teeth, bacteria and plaque will still form around the restoration. The chances of such dental problems happening again is even higher if you don’t take proper care of your teeth. Because, apart from the costs, dental professionals may no longer be able to treat or reverse the effects of certain kinds of dental problems, such as advanced periodontitis. So make sure you take care of those restorations if you want them to take care of you.

Schedule an appointment today with cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Simone at 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricsimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Las Vegas, Henderson, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley and all surrounding areas.

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Chipped Tooth? There’s a Fix | Las Vegas Dentist

In general, teeth are extremely durable. After all, we use them to break down food so our bodies can digest it properly. And from time to time, they can chip or break. What do you do? Fortunately, there are many restorative dentistry solutions to repair damaged teeth, depending on the severity of damage. Some of those solutions include the following:

Bonding. If a small portion of your front tooth is chipped, your dentist may bond your tooth. They’ll roughen up the chip with a gel, then apply a solution to bond the material. After bonding material is applied the tooth is shaped and hardened with an ultraviolet light.

Veneers. Veneers may be another option for you if you have chipped or broken tooth in the front area. A veneer is a thin piece of tooth colored porcelain or resin composite material that covers the whole front of the tooth, with a thicker area where the chip is. Similar to the bonding procedure, your dentist will remove very little natural tooth, rough it with a gel, apply a special cement and place your veneer before hardening it with light.

Crowns. If it’s a large piece of tooth, your dentist may have to grind away some of the tooth and use a special cement to place a crown. First visit, molds of the tooth will be taken to create your custom crown. Second visit, the tooth will be cleaned and your custom crown will be placed with a special cement.

Schedule an appointment today with cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Simone at 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricsimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Las Vegas, Henderson, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley and all surrounding areas.

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Dental Emergencies: They Just Happen | Las Vegas Dentist

In the event of accidental dental trauma, where damage is caused to one or more teeth, it’s important to contact your dentist immediately. Sometimes the neighboring teeth can suffer additional, unnoticed injuries that can only be detected by a dental exam. When you happen to have damage to your teeth, here is how your dentist may resolve your dental issue:

Chipped tooth. Most times a chipped or fractured tooth can be repaired by either replacing the broken piece or by bonding a tooth-colored filling. If a large portion of the tooth is broken off then a crown will likely be required. If the pulp is exposed or damaged a root canal treatment may be needed.

Dislodged tooth. A dislodged tooth is when a tooth pushed sideways, out of or into the socket. In these sort of cases, a patient will usually require a root canal and a dentist or endodontist will focus on stabilizing the tooth.

Knocked out tooth. When a tooth is completely knocked out of the socket it may be able to be saved if the patient arrives to the dentist in time, and the tooth is handled properly. Do not touch the root of the tooth, and keep it moist (either in the socket, on the gum against your cheek, or in milk).

While most dental trauma is treatable, there are cases where the tooth is lost due to the nature of the damage. If you have a crack or chip in your tooth, even if you believe its minor, be sure to visit your dentist to ensure that the tooth is healthy.

Schedule an appointment today with cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Simone at 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricsimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Las Vegas, Henderson, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley and all surrounding areas.

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Top Five Dental Implant Myths | Las Vegas, NV

implant diagramFor many years, the only dental restoration option for tooth loss were dentures. Fortunately, thanks to the advances in modern dentistry, there are more options to choose from. One of the dental restorations available to replace missing are dental implants. Dental implants offer important advantages over alternative dental restoration options in terms of aesthetics, comfort, function and longevity. However, like many other dental treatments, there are myths surrounding dental implants that have made people shy away from the dental treatment. By exposing the truth behind the myths, you can make a more informed decision about whether dental implants are right for you.

Myth #1: Dental implants are noticeable.

Fact: One of the best things about dental implants is that they blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. In fact, dental implants closely resemble natural teeth. Unless you tell someone you have dental implants, chances are they won’t even notice.

Myth #2: Dental implant placement is painful.

Fact: Dental implants require surgery, so there will be some pain and discomfort. However, most patients that go through with the dental treatment find it no more painful than having a tooth pulled. Also, with the help of nitrous oxide or anesthesia, patients will have the chance to undergo a more comfortable procedure.

Myth #3: Everyone can get dental implants.

Fact: Not everyone can get dental implants. For patients to be an ideal candidate, they must have strong bone tissue in the mouth in order to secure the implant. A medical professional or qualified dentist can help determine if you’re an ideal candidate.

Myth #4: Dental implants are really expensive.

Fact: When considering the cost of dental implant, patients should take the long term expense into consideration as well. For example, dental implants are cheaper than a dental bridge in the long run because they last longer. Bridges only last 5-15 years, while dental implants can last up to 25 years before they need replaced, making dental implants more valuable in the long run.

Myth #5: Dental implants require a lot of work.

Fact: Several people think they need to spend more time caring for dental implants. However, implants can be treated like natural teeth. You care for your dental implant by brushing and flossing, and you can eat whatever you want and even chew gum. There’s no need to worry about taking any special precautions for implants.

There are several myths out there about dental implants. The best way to obtain accurate information regarding dental implants is to consult with a dental professional.

If you are interested in dental implants, contact Dr. Patrick Simone in Henderson, NV at 702-735-2755 or visit at www.patricksimonedds.com for additional information.

Dr. Patrick Simone also proudly accepts patients from Henderson, Las Vegas, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley, and all surrounding areas.