blueturtledentalsposts

[blueturtledentalsposts]

If you are not sure which the best option is, contact the dental implant dentists at Blue Turtle Dental. We will evaluate your current oral condition and recommend the best treatment plan.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

Incorporating technology into dentistry has ushered in a new era of innovation and patient-centered care. At Blue Turtle Dental, we are committed to leveraging the latest technologies to offer you efficient and comfortable dental experiences tailored to your unique needs.

Request an appointment today to learn more about our specialty services and minimally invasive procedures.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

https://www.blueturtledental.com/dental-services/sleep-apnea-snoring-in-redwood-city-palo-alto-ca/

With our expertise in sleep apnea clinic in Palo Alto, we offer a range of solutions to address your specific needs.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

NEED WISDOM TEETH EXTRACTION IN REDWOOD CITY?

Wisdom tooth extraction is an outpatient procedure conducted under local anesthesia, and patients usually recover within a few days.

Reach out to your dentist in Redwood City at your earliest convenience. They will assess whether you need wisdom teeth removal and gladly address any questions or concerns you might have.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

FALLEN TOOTH? CONTACT YOUR PALO ALTO DENTIST RIGHT AWAY.

When faced with a dental emergency or traumatic injury, schedule an appointment with your Stanford emergency dentist as soon as possible.

Emergency Dentists in Palo Alto are equipped to handle emergencies and provide the necessary treatment. By seeking prompt dental care, you increase the chances of saving your tooth, minimizing complications, and restoring a healthy smile.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

Understanding Teeth Clenching and Grinding: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Did you know that bruxism, often known as teeth grinding, is a prevalent dental problem affecting 8% of adults and 15% of children and teenagers? The term "bruxism" describes clenching or grinding one's teeth vigorously. This can happen silently or loudly, especially when one is sleeping. 

So, what are the causes, symptoms, and available treatments for this unpleasant condition?

What Causes Teeth Grinding and Clenching?

Anxiety and stress are the main causes of teeth grinding. However, a mix of biological, psychological, and hereditary factors generally can cause this condition. 

As your Orthodontist in Redwood City will tell you, bruxism can manifest in two forms: 

Awake bruxism occurs when individuals consciously or semi-consciously grind their teeth during the daytime. This usually happens in response to feelings of anxiety or stress or when trying to focus on a task. It is a voluntary act.

Sleep bruxism takes place during the night when individuals unknowingly clench their teeth. It can be caused by sleep apnea and hallucinations.

Bruxism is linked to certain personality traits like hyperactivity, competitiveness, or aggression. Additionally, some medications could make bruxism worse. Lifestyle choices like smoking, consuming caffeinated beverages, and alcohol may also elevate the likelihood of developing bruxism.

It is worth noting that sleep bruxism has a genetic component. Therefore, you might be more susceptible if someone in your family has bruxism.

Common symptoms of teeth grinding 

Signs and symptoms of teeth grinding can vary. Visiting your dentist in Redwood City regularly is advisable, as dentists often are the first to recognize signs of bruxism. 

Here are the most common symptoms to watch out for:

Dental pain

Excessive grinding and clenching exert strain on the teeth, leading to increased sensitivity and pain. Bruxism is associated with additional dental problems, including chipped, cracked, or loose teeth, flattened or abraded tooth surfaces, and worn tooth enamel with exposed dentin.

Jaw pain

When you subconsciously clench your jaw at night, it causes jaw pain and jaw disorders. Symptoms indicating a possible connection to bruxism include jaw pain or soreness, a locked or dislocated jaw, and popping or clicking sounds when chewing or opening the mouth. In some cases, bruxism may contribute to temporomandibular disorder (TMD), characterized by chronic facial pain and dysfunction of the jaw bones, muscles, and joints.

Earaches and dizziness

Otologic symptoms related to the ears can also be signs of bruxism. The stress placed on the jaw from bruxism can lead to ear-related issues such as tinnitus, vertigo, and sharp ear pain (otalgia).

Facial pain and headaches

Involuntary teeth gnashing, particularly during sleep, can cause significant facial and head pain. Jaw tension can result in soreness and aches in the facial muscles, along with symptoms like a dull headache, chewing damage on the inside of the cheeks, and indentations on the tongue.

Sleep disruption

Unconscious bruxism often coexists with other sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea. If you wake up exhausted and experience any of the abovementioned symptoms, your lack of quality sleep may be attributed to bruxism. 

Treatment options

If you are diagnosed with bruxism, your orthodontist in Redwood City may recommend the following treatment options: 

Custom Night Guard: Your dentist will fit you with a personalized night guard designed to be worn while you sleep. 

Muscle Relaxants: In some cases, a muscle relaxant may be prescribed before bedtime. 

Behavioral Therapy: Your dentist may suggest behavioral therapy techniques to ease bruxism symptoms. This could involve learning to modify the positioning of your tongue, teeth, and lips for relief.

Biofeedback: This method employs an electronic device that measures muscle activity in the mouth and jaw. It alerts you when excessive activity is detected, allowing you to consciously relax your jaw. 

Mental Healthcare Referral: If a mental health disorder or chronic anxiety is the primary cause, your dentist may refer you to a mental healthcare professional who can prescribe antidepressants or antianxiety medications.

Successful treatment of bruxism is achievable in most cases. However, your dentist in Redwood City will probably keep an eye on your situation over multiple visits in order to gauge the severity of your teeth grinding and choose the best course of action. The following factors will be considered while deciding your treatment plan:

Overall health

Age

Personal and family medical history

Personal preferences and lifestyle choices

Existing medications or potential responses to commonly prescribed medications for bruxism

Responsiveness to specific therapies or procedures

Any additional dental procedures required for tooth damage

Grinding and Clenching Your Teeth? It's Time to See an Orthodontist in Redwood City

The long-term effects of bruxism on your oral health can lead to discomfort and significant expenses. If you suspect any form of teeth grinding during the day or night, it is good to promptly consult your Redwood City dentist for a diagnosis and appropriate remedy.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

SEAL IT UP! SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY Children’s dental sealants can be a powerful cavity-prevention tool. If you are concerned about your child’s oral health, you will find sealants to be a cost-effective alternative to frequent tooth repairs and fillings.

So, by scheduling regular dental checkups and considering using sealants, you can work with your pediatric dentist in Palo Alto to maintain your child’s optimal dental health and minimize future dental problems.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

It is good to inform your dentist about any symptoms that arise after a dental visit, as they are often indicative of an allergic reaction.

Notably, disclosing any known allergies will ensure the use of appropriate materials and prevent any adverse reactions. All said and done, don’t let allergies stop you from attending your routine visit to the best dental clinic in Redwood City.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

Clear aligners can be an effective alternative for fixing overbites and other bite problems, but it's important to consult the best dentist in Redwood City to determine if they're the best option for your specific case.

Remember, you must wear the aligners for at least 22 hours a day and be diligent about switching out each tray every two weeks.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

By following these five tips, you are sure to have healthy teeth and gums and prevent any potential complications during pregnancy. But the most important advice you can take during this time is this – always honor your dental appointments.

Preventive care appointments are more crucial now than ever. Schedule your appointment with the best oral dentist in Palo Alto.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

Fortunately, in most cases, LPC is relatively harmless. However, if the cyst grows to the extent that it makes life uncomfortable for you or begins threatening the adjacent tissues, then treatment is necessary. This is where oral surgeons in Palo Alto come in handy as the cyst is removed surgically.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

Dental X-rays are the best way to detect cavities, gum disease, and other conditions. Radiographs can detect cancers and infections early, letting your dentist provide the best therapy. Our Redwood City dentist community strives to provide you with safe and comfortable dental care.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

Top 10 Myths That We Bust About Fluoride Treatment

The topic of fluoride treatment is a hotly contested one. While some believe it is a helpful treatment that helps to boost dental health, others consider it toxic. So, what is fluoride treatment, and where does the controversy come from? 

What is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring compound that aids in reversing early signs of tooth decay. Usually, your body takes in fluoride in two ways: topically and systemically. Systemic fluorides are swallowed, including from dietary supplements and fluoridated water (most tap water). Topical fluoride is applied to the teeth through mouth rinses, toothpaste, and treatments at the dentist's office. 

In other words, fluoride treatment is a professional treatment that entails your Redwood City dentist applying a high concentration of fluoride to your teeth to reduce the risk of cavities and improve overall health. These in-office treatments can take the form of a gel, solution, varnish, or gel. 

Common fluoride treatment myths and facts 

As we mentioned, many false claims and myths have been introduced into the fluoride treatment conversation. We lay to rest most of these serious myths that fluoride treatment and fluoridated water is damaging or otherwise unhealthy.  

Let's set the record straight here. 

Myth 1: Fluoride can cause cancer

There is no clinical evidence to support this claim. Actually, several large studies have been conducted to investigate the link between fluoride and cancer, and these studies have consistently found no association between the two. The National Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society state that fluoride is not a known or probable carcinogen.

Myth 2: Fluoride treatment is not safe for children 

Fluoride treatment is safe for children when administered by qualified dentists. The fact is fluoride is particularly important for children, as it can help prevent tooth decay and strengthen developing teeth. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Dental Association both recommend fluoride for children to help prevent tooth decay.

Myth 3: Fluoride treatment doesn't reduce tooth decay 

Fluoride treatment prevents tooth decay by strengthening the enamel and making it resistant to the action of acids. Before fluoride was added to toothpaste, studies revealed that people who take fluoridated water were 40-60% less likely to get cavities. In fact, the CDC and ADA recommend trace amounts of fluoride be added to drinking water. 

Myth 4: Fluoride treatment is costly 

This is another false claim. Insurance usually covers fluoride treatment for children, provided it is carried out at the dentist's office. However, adults may pay between $10 and $30 out of pocket. Always ask your family dentist in Redwood City about costs before treatment. 

Myth 5: Fluoride treatment is a lengthy procedure 

Fluoride treatment at the dentist only takes a few minutes. The gel, varnish, or foam is applied with a brush or swab placed in a tray held in your mouth for a few minutes. 

Myth 6: Fluoride treatment is painful 

As some people may think, fluoride treatment at the dentist is painless and, most importantly, does not involve drilling. 

Myth 7: Regular fluoride treatment is bad for you 

Depending on your dental health, the ADA recommends fluoride treatment every three, six, or twelve months. If you have a higher risk of developing cavities and tooth decay, your dentist may also suggest other preventative measures, like over-the-counter prescriptions or fluoride mouth rinses.

Myth 8: Fluoride treatment is not necessary as there is fluoride in toothpaste 

That's a fallacy. The truth is that fluoride treatment administered by your Redwood City dentist enhances the effectiveness in professional cleanings, flossing at home, brushing, and fluoride exposure from toothpaste. 

Myth 9: Fluoride is a medication 

The truth is fluoride is a natural mineral and not a synthetic medication. While it can be incorporated into prescription mouthwashes, keep in mind that fluoride is a naturally occurring nutrient made of fluoride and salt. The compound is released in the air, rocks, and air and occurs naturally in water. 

Myth 10: Fluoride is only effective when administered topically 

The ADA advises people to get fluoride both systemically and topically. Thus, besides getting fluoride treatment, you still need to brush using fluoride toothpaste and take fluoridated water. 

Bottom line

There's so much information out there these days that it can be hard to keep track of the truth. Fluoride is a safe and effective mineral that can help prevent tooth decay when used as directed. While some myths and misconceptions surround its use, evidence-based research has consistently shown that fluoride is safe and effective for preventing tooth decay. Therefore, It is recommended to consult with your Redwood City dentist before deciding on fluoride intake, as they can help you determine the best approach.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

Flu prevention starts with good oral hygiene. It should be part of a comprehensive health-preservation plan. You may want to lie in bed and rest during the flu season. But dental routines are important during this time. Don’t give the bacteria a chance to build up. Get your dental checkups and cleanings in Redwood City.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

At Blue Turtle Dental, we have a digital scanner to help us create an impression of your teeth fast for nightguards & retainers, while making less of an imprint on the environment and it’s virtually painless! Before using a night guard or retainer for anything other than what they were designed for, consult your Orthodontist in Palo Alto.

[blueturtledentalsposts]

We need to take dental care and hygiene seriously by taking action daily. It doesn’t take much of your time daily. Also, it’s just 2 dental checkups in 365 days. That’s the least we can do for our health. If you’re due for your dental checkup, call our oral dentist in Palo Alto today!

[blueturtledentalsposts]

The sooner your gum disease symptoms are addressed, the better! Gum disease doesn’t just fade away with time, particularly in the case of periodontitis. Remember, if you notice anything unusual with your teeth or gums, that’s enough reason to give your family dentist in Redwood City a call.