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Getting 3D Scans at the Dentist | Schnecksville Dentist

When it’s time to visit the dentist for a checkup, the chances are pretty great that you will be getting some x-rays taken to help your dentist find any issues that may be happening but can help to foresee any issues that may arise in the future.

Cone Beam CT scans, or CBCT, is fast, simple and completely non-invasive technology. These aren’t the x-rays of the past. These 3D scans will give your dentist a computer-generated view of your face, teeth and other important details from various perspectives. By doing this, these scans provide accurate measurements useful for dental implant surgery and other oral appliances. But even more impressively, they can also detect issues in other aspects, like the following:

  • Airway sleep disorders such as sleep apnea
  • TMJ
  • Bone cancer, tumors, or cysts
  • Fractures
  • Tooth root infections, root canals, or other problems with the core of the tooth
  • Gum problems
  • Nasal anatomy, include septum, turbinates and sinuses.

With the CBCT scans system, dentists have a more complete visual guide to study their patient’s case from just about any angle they can think of. Even better is that the scan data is easy to duplicate for storage purposes and to make it easier to send out to different specialists later on. Thanks to the more accurate, high-quality, detailed visual information produced by the imaging system, dentists have all the information they could possibly need to diagnose and plan out the proper course of action. It may seem wild that your dentist will now have these ultra-cool views of your face, but they can look after your health in a more in-depth way.

For more information about CBCT scans, call Dr. Sandip Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

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Sugar and Its Effects on Your Teeth | Schnecksville Dentist

Well, despite quite the rollercoaster of a year, we’ve made it – we are officially in the holiday season. And while it doesn’t quite look like the holidays we are used to, some things will never change, especially when it comes to eating. We need these holiday favorites to show up and comfort us during this wild time. Unfortunately, these foods tend to be somewhat bad for us. It’s the season of the cakes and cookies, the ultimate of the food hugs – how are we supposed to control ourselves? Know that you just need to try, because all of that sugar is wreaking havoc on your smile.

When you eat something sugary, harmful bacteria in your mouth get to dine and dine they do. Then they produce acids, and this is what is breaking down your tooth enamel. The more the enamel is destroyed, the faster a cavity develops. The good thing is that saliva helps wash away the acids in our mouth causing the issue. Saliva has minerals within it that help to build back the damaged tooth enamel. Think of it like the front line for your smile. The more sugar you eat, the more you feed the bad bacteria. And if you aren’t practicing good dental hygiene, they will cause more damage. And this is why it is so important to continue to practice proper dental hygiene routines daily. Can’t let those cavity creeps damage your healthy smile.

We aren’t saying avoid sugary treats all together – we aren’t monsters. ‘Tis the season! Just be mindful of what you’re eating and practice proper dental hygiene after each indulgence. And make an appointment in the new year to make sure you’re doing a great job.

For more information about dental hygiene during the holidays, call Dr. Sandip Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

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Celebrating the Holidays with Your Smile | Schnecksville Dentist

As we rapidly approach the holiday season, it is important to know that while we love to indulge in all of our favorite holiday treats, we need to make sure not to forgot about our smiles in the process. After all, we couldn’t enjoy these holidays without it. This may not be the holiday season we are used to, but we can’t let our dental hygiene fall to the wayside. Here are some things to keep in mind as you begin to celebrate this holiday season:

Avoid grazing. There are just so many delicious foods to overindulge in, but it is best to stay focused on the matter at hand – try to limit snacking throughout the day. Not only will it allow for bacteria to constantly cling to your teeth, but you will be too full to enjoy the meal itself.

Maintain a balance. We all know there are loads of foods that are bad for us available, but there are also lots of great foods. So, enjoy everything, just make sure to balance it out with foods that contain calcium and/or protein, and fruits and vegetables.

Stay hydrated. Tis the season for seasonal drinks, but it is important that you try to remain hydrated. Not only will you keep some type of composure from too much egg nog, but it will also increase saliva production, which helps to keep bad bacteria away from your teeth.

Practice proper dental hygiene. It’s a busy time of year for everyone, but that’s no excuse to let your dental hygiene slip. Brush twice a day, floss and rinse with fluoride mouthwash. And after the holidays are done, visit your dentist to make sure you’ve done a good job.

For more information about dental hygiene during the holidays, call Dr. Sandip Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

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10 Tips for a Healthy Smile | Schnecksville Dentist

We all want a healthy smile, but are you doing your best to keep that smile healthy? After all, we at Extraordinary Smiles will do our best to treat your dental issues, but most of the work falls in your hands. Do your job well and our job is easy. But how do you know if you are doing the best possible job for your smile? Here is a quick rundown:

Brush properly. Maintaining a healthy smile means brushing, flossing and rinsing on a daily basis. Brush for at least two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day – all four quadrants.

Even your tongue. You may not think this is necessary, but your tongue holds tons of bacteria and can lead to bad breath.

Swish, swish. Using mouthwash will not only improve your breath, but it can also strengthen your teeth, prevent plaque and gum disease. Rinsing fits anywhere in the sequence as mouthwash will dislodge debris in your mouth, making it easier for you to clean your mouth well.

Flossing. Flossing is very similar to mouthwash – it loosens particles in places your toothbrush can’t reach.

Choose your weapon. Picking out a toothbrush may seem daunting with all of the variations available. Choose soft-bristles and a small enough head to reach your back molars, electric or manual is up to you.

Keep it clean. Thoroughly rinsing your toothbrush after each use will help keep bacteria from entering your mouth. Allow it to air dry for optimal cleanliness – no toothbrush covers.

Swap it out. Toothbrushes need to be replaced every three months, or after having a cold.

Midnight snacks. Unless you plan on brushing and flossing after your snack, food before bedtime isn’t a good idea.

Tobacco-free. We all know smoking is bad for your health, but it’s also terrible for your smile. If you use tobacco products, try quitting.

Keep your appointments. Finally, make sure to call us for regular checkups. We are the only ones that can tell you if you’re doing a great job. It’s all about teamwork!

For more information about dental hygiene, call Dr. Sandip Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

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Protecting Your Smile During the Pandemic | Schnecksville Dentist

Young woman with toothache and ice bag.

During this rather unpredictable time, one thing we can predict is the way we take care of ourselves. Sure, your dental professionals have tools to keep our smiles healthy, but it is really our jobs to look after ourselves in between our visits. This is why it is important to keep our daily dental routines in place while we stay home and keep ourselves healthy.

Unfortunately, accidents will happen, and we will need to seek professional help. Typically, is would be simple to access a dental professional but during these quarantine times, it is important to know how to identify and soothe yourself until it can be professionally looked at.

When a toothache arises, there are a couple of options that may help. Gargling with warm saltwater will help relieve pain in the affected area by clearing out any bacteria within. If it’s swelling, you may need a cold compress and some over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen.

When you’ve chipped or cracked your tooth, it is likely that it will need to be looked at. If it gets jammed or loosened, gently try to straighten it. Wrap it with some gauze or tissue to stabilize it until you can get it looked at. If it is knocked out, don’t touch the root and give it a quick rinse with cold water or milk. All of these are considered dental emergencies and your dentist will be the best advice as to what actions need to take place immediately.

Living in this pandemic is a crazy time, but we don’t need to become overwhelmed by things we can control. Taking the time to brush, floss and rinse every day will prevent long-term issues, but having some DIY tips will help when accidents arise.

For more information about dental emergencies, call Dr. Sandip Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.