Monday 23 December 2013

Gum Health

The Major Reason for Tooth Loss
Gum Disease - Prevent Tooth Loss St Louis MO
Cavities are generally not the prime reason for loss of teeth. A person with tooth decay will often know there is a problem before major damage occurs. With gum disease, it is a different story. This is the leading cause of tooth loss and that is because it can be painless even up to the point of losing your teeth. If your gums bleed when you floss or brush or you have loose teeth, please call us immediately. Gum disease has often been corrected with surgery, but our office also provides nonsurgical methods to correct the problem.

Gum Disease Contributes to Other Serious
Health Problems


Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums that could result in tooth loss. However, the latest medical research has evidence that there is a link between heart disease, stroke, and gum disease. With an estimated 8 out of 10 people in the U.S. with this dental condition, most dentists consider this to be epidemic. As the bacteria from the infected gums move in the bloodstream to every part of the body, this can create very serious health conditions, especially in the heart. As heart disease and stroke can be fatal, gum disease is a critical problem that needs to be stopped.

Periodontal Disease Treatment Dentist St Louis MOWhat Can Be Done to Stop the Problem

In advanced cases, surgery is the treatment for gum infections and has a very high success rate. In less severe cases, nonsurgical methods can be used. When combined with a patient’s better dental care, the spread of the infection can be halted. Both of these treatments have coverage with most dental insurance policies.

When a Tooth is Lost

Many may think that losing a tooth is no reason to have concern, but losing even one tooth is the start of other teeth shifting and moving. This affects chewing, which alters your ability to get nutrients out of meals. As it is more difficult to chew with fewer teeth, you may start to eat softer foods, which could result in weight gain. Your face may change shape, making you look years older than your age, and speech may no longer be clear. Replacement of the tooth is the best solution. We offer dental implants for as many teeth as you need. They are so natural looking, even a dentist can hardly tell the difference between a real tooth and an implant.




Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3

St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853 
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Diabetic Dental Care

Problems with DiabetesDental Root Canal Treatment St Louis MO

Not all dentists have the same capabilities in assisting a diabetic with their dental health. Our dentists have received specialized training in treating diabetics in their special needs. We offer a complimentary consultation to identify dental problems such as gum disease. If left untreated, diabetes affects gums disease and gum disease affects diabetes and overall, it is an exasperating cycle of one continually worsening the other. If you’ve been putting off receiving the treatment you need, you will feel comfortable with the compassionate care we will give you. 


Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3

St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853 
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Senior Dental Care

DentiDentistry for Seniors St Louis MOstry for Seniors
With obvious changes to our bodies as we age, we must also realize that there are changes to our teeth and gums as well. Teeth can be stained from caffeine consumption, tobacco use, or plaque. The usage of certain medications can result in the reduced flow of the necessary saliva through our mouths. As fillings get older, they might weaken or crack. Gum disease or root decay may go unnoticed. And any bleeding or redness in gums or loose teeth requires immediate medical attention. Regular check-ups will allow us to keep on top of any of these conditions. We have products and procedures that will combat these conditions before they result in major problems.

Professional Cleaning
Plaque and tartar can accumulate on teeth over an extended period of time. Plaque can be removed with daily brushing, but sometimes it hardens into tartar, which is not easily removed. When tartar collects below the gumline and/or on the surface of teeth, you are risking problems that could lead to infections and tooth loss. Modern research links untreated gum infections to serious medical conditions like diabetes, heart problems, and strokes. Please make an appointment with our dental hygienist to have a professional cleaning twice a year for overall good health.



Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3

St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853 
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Monday 16 December 2013

Habits That Wreck Your Teeth: Opening Stuff With Your Teeth

Opening bottle caps or plastic packaging with your teeth may be convenient, but this is one habit that makes dentists cringe. Using your teeth as tools can cause them to crack or chip. Instead, keep scissors and bottle openers handy. Bottom line, your teeth should only be used for eating.

Above article from: webmd.com/oral-health


Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3

St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853 
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Sunday 15 December 2013

Habits That Wreck Your Teeth: Bedtime Bottles


It’s never too early to protect teeth. Giving a baby a bedtime bottle of juice, milk, or formula, can put new teeth on a path to decay. The baby may become used to falling asleep with the bottle in his or her mouth, bathing the teeth in sugars overnight. It's best to keep bottles out of the crib.

Above article from: webmd.com/oral-health

Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3

St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853 
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Saturday 14 December 2013

Habits that Wreck Your Teeth: Cough Drops


Just because cough drops are sold in the medicine aisle doesn't mean they’re healthy. Most are loaded with sugar. So after soothing your throat with a lozenge, be sure to brush well. Whether the sugar comes from a cough drop or a hard candy, it reacts with the sticky plaque that coats your teeth. Then bacteria in the plaque convert the sugar into an acid that eats away at tooth enamel. Hello, cavities.

Above article from: webmd.com/oral-health

Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3
St. Louis, MO 63129 (314) 892-8853  www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Friday 22 November 2013

Traditional Orthodontics

How Much Time for Traditional Orthodontics?
Orthodontics Dentistry St Louis MO
As advancements are always being made, today our doctors can make braces attractive and more comfortable than ever. Previously, a patient would wear braces for 3 - 5 years, but that is no longer the case. As every individual’s length of time to wear braces will vary, today 6 - 24 months is generally the range of time. What is also nice is that they are the most cost-effective treatment while providing the desired results. 

  
Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3

St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853 
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Solutions for Slipping Dentures

Overdentures Prevent Dentures from Slipping
If you have dentures that tilt, slip, or wander, you might prefer to have the stability of implants. Overdentures are a recent breakthrough in relieving this problem for denture wearers. With this procedure, your bridge or denture is secured with a type of implant that will give you the best fit and a great look. Once you eliminate the problems of slippage and trapped food, you will have more reason to smile with confidence.

Implants for Slipping Dentures St Louis MOTired of Dentures Slipping?
People who wear dentures will tell you that the worst part is having their teeth slip, tilt, or slide while they’re eating. They have to use denture adhesive to try to keep their teeth from moving around. This is a major irritant for them. At Infinite Smiles, we can design and fit natural-looking dentures that won't slip! This breakthrough involves anchoring the denture plate so securely that you no longer have to worry about the foods you eat or that your dentures might shift or slip. If you are a denture wearer, be sure to ask us about this. It will make your life so much easier.


Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3
St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Sedation Dentistry

Relax Through Your Visit With Nitrous Oxide
Dental Sedation St. Louis MO With the use of nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, you will remain awake but very relaxed during your dental work. Sometimes local anesthesia is additionally given to a patient so there will be no pain. With this level of sedation and pain control, you will be able to drive back home or to work after treatment. 

  
Infinite Smiles 
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3
St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853 
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Thursday 14 November 2013

Habits That Wreck Your Teeth - Tongue Piercings

Tongue piercings may be trendy, but biting down on the metal stud can crack a tooth. Lip piercings pose a similar risk. And when metal rubs against the gums, it can cause gum damage that may lead to tooth loss. The mouth is also a haven for bacteria, so piercings raise the risk of infections and sores. Bottom line, discuss the health risks with your dentist first.

Above article from: webmd.com/oral-health


Infinite Smiles

5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3
St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Wednesday 13 November 2013

Habits That Wreck Your Teeth - Playing Sports With No Mouth Guard

Whether you play football, hockey, or any other contact sport, don't get in the game without a mouth guard. This is a piece of molded plastic that protects the upper row of teeth. Without it, your teeth could get chipped or even knocked out when the action gets rough. Self-fitting mouth guards may be purchased at a store, or you can have one custom made by your dentist.



Above article from: webmd.com/oral-health

Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3
St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Tuesday 12 November 2013

Habits That Wreck Your Teeth - Chewing on Ice

It’s natural and sugar free, so you might think ice is harmless. But munching on hard, frozen cubes can chip or even crack your teeth. And if your mindless chomping irritates the soft tissue inside a tooth, regular toothaches may follow. Hot foods and cold foods may trigger quick, sharp jabs of pain or a lingering toothache. Next time you get the urge for ice, chew some sugarless gum instead.


Above article from: webmd.com/oral-health

Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3
St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Thursday 24 October 2013

Invisalign and ClearCorrect Orthodontics

A Clear Alternative in OrthodonticsClear Dental Braces Dentist St Louis MO


Invisalign™ and ClearCorrect™ are innovative, invisible aligners that can straighten teeth in just 9 - 15 months. They can change widely spaced teeth, overcrowding, underbite, overbite, or crossbite. With this advancement there is no headgear, wires, or braces and no mouth irritation. They are removable so brushing and flossing are easy, and you can eat and drink whatever you want during treatment. The best part is they are invisible, so no one will ever know you are straightening your teeth. Approximately every two weeks the patient’s custom-made aligners are changed and with each new aligner, you are closer to your goal of a beautiful smile. 


Invisalign - ClearCorrect - Cosmetic Adult Dental Braces 
Invisible Dental Aligners
 

Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3
St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Dental Implants

A Perfect Smile
Dental Implant Dentistry St Louis MO
Dental implants are the ideal choice in replacing missing teeth. They restore stability for chewing a variety of foods as well as recapturing a full and beautiful smile. They are anchored below your gums and are secure in your mouth, unlike bridges or dentures, which only sit on top of the gums. And because the implant does come through the gums, it looks just like a real tooth. You can have implants for just a few teeth or to replace dentures. Patients who use implants instead of dentures will no longer have to worry about slippage when eating or talking, and implants do not need to be taken out at bedtime. After a surgeon has put a titanium post in place, a customized, natural restoration will be made for you – one that looks and functions just like a real tooth and will blend in with the rest of your teeth.


Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3
St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Sleep Apnea

Is Snoring Keeping You or Your Spouse Awake at Night?Sleep Apnea Treatment Dentist St Louis MO

If you or someone you know falls asleep in the daytime, snores loudly, or has sporadic breathing while asleep, these may be signs of sleep apnea. Traditionally, the CPAP device has been used to pump air into the patient’s nose and mouth at bedtime. Although the device produces the desired results, due to the discomfort of a bulky mask on the face, they stop wearing it.

Modern dentistry now provides an option with an appliance that fits in the mouth. This small acrylic device fits over lower and upper teeth, similar to retainers for orthodontics. It works by gently realigning your jaw and tongue and opening your airway to receive more air into your lungs to let you sleep soundly the entire night. It is simple to insert and remove the device, clean it, and pack it for travel.

With a success rate of 90% in users, it is a superior alternative to CPAP machines. If you have been diagnosed with this disorder, give us a call today so you can start enjoying a comfortable, sound sleep.


Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3
St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com


Monday 21 October 2013

Oral Warning Signs Can Indicate Serious Medical Conditions


Regular dental exams not only help to decrease a patient's risk of oral diseases, such as cavities and periodontal (gum) disease, but they may also help to diagnose other, sometimes life-threatening, medical conditions.
 
Dentists are able to assess a patient's overall oral health and may recognize symptoms of serious diseases, including diabetes, cancer, and eating disorders, which often manifest as signs and symptoms inside of the mouth. Click here to learn more.

Above article from KnowYourTeeth.com


Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3
St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com

Monday 14 October 2013

Halloween Tips


Halloween is around the corner, which for most children means bags of free candy and a
chance to build up the stockpile of sweets for the winter. Being one of the most fun times of the year for families, Halloween can also present parents with a variety of health and safety challenges.
The American Dental Association, America's premier source of oral health information, has prepared a list of 10 suggestions to help parents maintain good oral health for their children around the Halloween holiday and throughout the year.
1.     Consume Halloween candy and other sugary foods with meals.
Saliva production increases during meals and helps neutralize acids produced by bacteria in your mouth and helps rinse away food particles.
2.     Avoid hard candy and other sweets that stay in your mouth for a long time.
Besides how often you snack, the length of time food is in your mouth plays a role in tooth decay. Unless it is a sugar-free product, candies that stay in the mouth for a long period of time subject teeth to prolonged acid attack, increasing the risk for tooth decay.
3.     Avoid sticky candies that cling to your teeth.
The stickier candies, like taffy and gummy bears, take longer to get washed away by saliva, increasing the risk for tooth decay. 

Click here to read more tips.

Above article from: ada.org

Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3
St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com


Monday 7 October 2013

Don't Forget to Clean Your Tongue


Your oral health routine should always include brushing your tongue with your toothbrush or using a tongue scraper, which you can find in the dental products aisle at the drugstore. That’s important because foods can get stuck in the grooves of your tongue, causing bacteria to grow. Other oral health problems that can develop if you don't clean your tongue are a bad taste in your mouth, staining on your tongue, and bad breath, Abayon says.

Above article from EverydayHealth.com

Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3
St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com
  

Friday 6 September 2013

Your Family’s Oral Health


Have you heard that you should only take care of the teeth you want to keep? It's true!
That's why at any stage of life, it's important to practice good oral hygiene at home and to visit your general dentist regularly. Starting early is critical to success in preserving a healthy smile for a lifetime. 
KnowYourTeeth.com has loads of information and resources for families who want to know more about good dental care and oral health.  Whether you are an expectant mom, a teen dealing with braces, a grandparent, or someone in between, we have the answers for you. What's more, kids will find games, quizzes and other ways to make learning about dental care more fun!

Visit www.knowyourteeth.com for more great dental information

Above article from KnowYourTeeth.com

Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3
St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com


Wednesday 4 September 2013

Healthy Mouth, Healthy Body


You already know that in order to avoid cavities and more serious dental problems, you have to take good care of your teeth. But consistent brushing and flossing habits do more than just protect your oral health — they also help keep a host of other serious conditions at bay. Heart disease and stroke, for instance, have both been linked to poor dental hygiene.

Above article from everydayhealth.com/dental-health/101.aspx

Infinite Smiles
5430 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 3
St. Louis, MO 63129
(314) 892-8853
www.InfiniteSmilesDental.com