Category Archives: Oral Health

Can Veneers Help with Bruxism?

July 31, 2023 2:37 pm
Published by Vero Dental

Bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding or clenching, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It often occurs unconsciously during sleep due to chronic stress and can lead to various dental issues, such as tooth sensitivity, worn-down enamel, and jaw pain. As patients seek solutions to manage bruxism, they may wonder: can veneers help with this condition? In this post, we will delve into the relationship between veneers and bruxism.

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is a habitual grinding or clenching of teeth that can occur during the day or night. It often stems from factors such as stress, anxiety, and misaligned teeth. It can lead to discomfort and pain, as well as severe dental issues down the road.

What Are Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of teeth. They are designed to improve the appearance of teeth by enhancing their color, shape, and size. Veneers are a popular cosmetic solution for issues like discoloration, gaps, and chipped teeth.

Veneers & Bruxism

While veneers are durable and can dramatically enhance the appearance of teeth, they are not a treatment for bruxism. Veneers are a cosmetic improvement and will not address the underlying cause of your teeth grinding or protect your jaw and uncovered teeth from damage. In fact, untreated bruxism can chip and crack your veneers! However, veneers can restore the length, shape, and symmetry of teeth that have been negatively affected by bruxism.

Comprehensive Treatment Approach

A comprehensive approach is necessary to effectively manage bruxism. This typically involves addressing the underlying cause of bruxism by using appliances like durable custom mouthguards to protect the teeth, and, if necessary, orthodontic treatment to correct misaligned teeth.

Reducing stress and protecting the teeth with a mouthguard is typically a better course of action than simply getting veneers. Something else to consider is that veneers are only placed on the front teeth, while chronic teeth clenching and grinding can greatly affect the molars.

Consult with Our Denver Dental Team!

If you suspect that you have bruxism, it is crucial to consult with our team for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations. We can assess your specific situation and provide guidance on the best course of action. We may recommend veneers, a custom nightguard, or both, depending on your unique oral health preferences and needs.

Why Is Saliva Important for Oral Health?

May 14, 2022 4:05 am
Published by Vero Dental

What comes to mind when you think of spit, or saliva? Do you think about the last time you were sprayed during a conversation or got sick after sharing a drink with someone? Or perhaps you have many happy memories involving baby drool or slobbery dog kisses. However you feel about saliva, it plays a critical role in your oral health every day!

What Is Saliva?

Saliva is made mainly of water so be sure to drink enough water every day so your salivary glands can produce a healthy spit level! Besides water, saliva contains mucus, proteins, minerals, enzymes, antibacterial components, and more. This powerful substance helps maintain the health of hard and soft tissues within the mouth.

Why Is Saliva Important?

Saliva keeps the mouth’s pH at a healthy balance by neutralizing acids in the mouth that would otherwise break down tooth enamel and irritate the gums. This neutralization helps prevent decay and gum disease. Additionally, saliva naturally cleans away food particles and bacteria from teeth and the tongue, helps prevent bad breath and dryness, provides a thirst cue, improves the taste of food, and aids in swallowing and digestion.

Caring for Your Oral Health

Even though saliva helps promote strong teeth and healthy gums, you still need proper oral healthcare at home and at the dentist. No matter what you eat or drink, you should floss daily and brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time. You should also consume a balanced diet, avoid tobacco products, and visit Vero Dental for routine checkups and cleanings.

Family-Friendly Dental Care in Denver, CO

Are you looking for a family dentist in Denver? Our friendly team loves to work with patients of all ages, especially children! We offer comprehensive dentistry and strive to educate our patients on how to best care for their oral health at home to encourage long-lasting healthy smiles. Contact us today to schedule your next visit!

5 Common Questions Dental Hygienists Hear

September 30, 2021 1:24 am
Published by Vero Dental

Along with your dentist, your dental hygienist is an essential part of your dental team. They help you reach optimal oral health by cleaning your teeth, checking your gums, demonstrating good oral hygiene, and answering your dental-related questions.

Not sure what you might want to ask your dental hygienist during your next visit? These are some of the most common questions dental hygienists hear and can assist with.

How Can I Improve My Oral Health?

This question may seem basic, but it’s an important one. By asking it, you’re taking an active role in your dental wellness. Depending on the state of your oral health, your hygienist might tell you how to improve your brushing or flossing technique, which areas of your mouth to pay particular attention to, and what dental products they recommend you using at home.

Why Do My Gums Bleed?

Some people who see a little bit of pink in the sink while brushing or flossing their teeth may just assume that that’s a normal part of the process. If your gums bleed often while taking care of your dental health at home, it’s a good idea to ask your hygienist why that may be the cause. Bleeding gums could be a sign of bacteria build-up and gum disease.

How Can I Whiten My Teeth?

A white smile looks good on everyone! Your dental hygienist will be able to give you some tips on either keeping your teeth white or boosting their brightness. Depending on the patient, this could mean a change in brushing technique, a recommendation for professional teeth whitening, a change in diet, or quitting smoking.

Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?

Teeth sensitivity can be caused by many things, such as tooth decay, gum recession, diet, and teeth grinding. If you routinely experience tooth sensitivity, consult with your hygienist about how you can reduce your discomfort.

What Toothpaste/Toothbrush/Floss Should I Use?

As experts in dental care, your hygienist can assess your current oral health and provide personalized recommendations for the dental tools you should be using at home. Not only will they know which products in the market are the most effective, but they’ll also be able to tell you why they might be the best option for your specific situation.

If you have a question that wasn’t previously covered, be sure to ask your dental hygienist at your next appointment. Consider them a trusted resource in your journey to a beautiful, healthy smile.

Whether you are a new patient or a returning patient, we’d be delighted to have you visit our Denver dental office! Please contact Vero Dental today to set up an appointment.

What Can I Do About Sensitive Teeth?

January 26, 2021 10:30 pm
Published by Vero Dental

If you have sensitive teeth, then you can relate all too well to that sharp feeling of discomfort anytime you eat or drink something that’s too hot or too cold. The great thing is that there are some steps you can take to address the issue and get that much-desired relief. Here’s what you should do if you have sensitive teeth:

Reassess Your Dental Routine

Have a look at your at-home dental care routine. Make sure you’re using a soft-bristled toothbrush so you don’t damage your enamel and gums with a hard-bristled brush. When you’re actually brushing, check that you’re moving the brush in gentle circles, rather than in an aggressive manner. Additionally, start using an anti-sensitivity toothpaste if you aren’t using one already.

Minimize Acidic Beverages

Acidic beverages can cause enamel erosion and make your teeth more sensitive. Try to swap drinks like soda and citrus juices for water whenever possible. You can also rinse your mouth out with water anytime you drink one of these beverages to minimize exposure to the acid.

Consult with Our Team!

Since the cause of tooth sensitivity can vary from patient to patient, your best bet is to schedule a consultation at Vero Dental to find a personalized solution. For example, if you have gum disease, more of your tooth root could be exposed, thus making your tooth more sensitive. We can set up a periodontal care plan for you to improve your gum health. Or if you have bruxism, meaning you grind and clench your teeth at night, then we can fit you with a custom nightguard to protect your teeth while you sleep.

At Vero Dental, our team is here for all your dental needs with our comprehensive dental services, and that includes help managing sensitive teeth. If you’re struggling to find relief from tooth sensitivity, contact us today to schedule a consultation!

Causes of Gum Disease

November 18, 2020 8:26 pm
Published by Vero Dental

Your gums are an essential part of your oral health. They help anchor your teeth into your mouth and provide a barrier so bacteria can’t access the sensitive inner portion of your teeth. If you don’t take care of your teeth and your gums, you risk developing periodontal disease, also known as gum disease.

In this blog post, learn what causes gum disease and how to prevent it.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

There are several stages of periodontal disease: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis.

Gingivitis is characterized by gum inflammation and irritation. The gums are swollen, tender, abnormally red, and prone to bleeding.

Periodontitis is when the gums start to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets. The tissues and bone surrounding the teeth become damaged. You may experience chronic bad breath, bleeding, sensitivity, pain, and even pus. Eventually, the teeth can fall out and your jawbone can deteriorate, which will change your facial shape and impair your ability to chew, talk, and smile with confidence.

Causes of Gum Disease

The primary cause of gum disease is plaque accumulation from poor oral hygiene. Plaque is a film of bacteria that builds up along and under your gumline, as well as on and between your teeth, unless it is properly brushed and flossed away every day. Plaque irritates the gums, leading to inflammation and infection.

Many factors can increase your risk of developing periodontal disease. These include:

Smoking and Tobacco Use
High Consumption of Sugar and Carbohydrates
Uncontrolled Diabetes
Hormonal Changes
Certain Medications
Genetics

How to Prevent Gum Disease

To prevent gum disease, maintain superb oral health habits! For example:

Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day for two minutes each time.
Floss every day.
Visit Vero Dental at least every six months for a checkup and cleaning. We’ll let you know if you’d benefit from more frequent visits! These appointments allow our team to detect early signs of gum disease, suggest oral care tips, and remove plaque with our special dental tools.
Avoid tobacco products and sugary gum.
Drink plenty of water.
Consume a balanced diet.

Periodontal Therapy at Vero Dental

If you have noticed changes in your gum health, please contact us today for a checkup. Our expert team can examine your mouth and determine the best course of action to improve your gum health! We also invite you to explore our website to learn about our comprehensive dental services and affordable payment options.

How to Keep Your Teeth & Gums Healthy

May 30, 2020 10:10 pm
Published by Vero Dental

Don’t let your oral health fall by the wayside. Here are some pointers to keep your dental health in tip-top shape:

Brush & Floss

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and flossing at least once a day. Be sure to brush your tongue too! Brushing and flossing are the first line of defense for keeping your teeth and gums healthy and strong. If done properly and consistently, your oral hygiene regimen can help prevent plaque buildup, bad breath, tooth discoloration, tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Diet plays a significant role in your oral health. We recommend limiting foods and drinks that have a lot of sugar in them. Bacteria consume the sugar left on your teeth and produce acidic byproducts that irritate your gums and destroy your enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth. We also advise staying away from hard foods that can damage your teeth, such as ice and hard candy. Instead, reach for nutrient-dense whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. These help prevent enamel erosion and boost your oral and overall health.

Drink Plenty of Water

Compared to sports drinks, soda, and fruit juice, water is the best option for hydrating your mouth and encouraging saliva production. Saliva is essential for remineralizing your enamel and washing away leftover food debris and bacteria from your mouth. Additionally, most tap water contains fluoride, a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel against decay. While fluoride naturally occurs in low levels in water and some foods, many communities add it to their public water supply to a level proven to reduce the incidence of cavities.

Reach Out to Our Team!

Are you currently dealing with a dental problem? Contact Vero Dental right away. It may be a dental issue that requires urgent attention. If it turns out to not be a dental emergency, our expert team is still here to help you manage it.

If you have additional questions about how to care for your oral health, reach out to our team at Vero Dental in Denver, CO.