Is It Painful to Get a Crown Replaced?

October 25, 2024 | by James Sampson | Blog

Replacing a crown generally involves some level of discomfort, but it should not be excessively painful. The procedure is usually carried out with the use of local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring minimal pain.

You may feel some pressure or mild discomfort as the dentist prepares the tooth and removes the old crown. Additionally, there might be sensitivity or soreness in the treated area after the anesthesia wears off.

If you experience any pain during the crown replacement or if the discomfort worsens, it is important to inform your dentist. The Dentist can make any necessary adjustments or provide appropriate pain relief measures.

When replacing a crown, the process typically involves the following steps:

Evaluation: The dentist will examine the condition of the existing crown and the underlying tooth structure. They will assess whether a replacement is necessary and discuss the options with you.
Numbing the area: Local anesthesia is administered to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure. The dentist will wait for the anesthesia to take effect before proceeding.
Removal of the old crown: Using dental tools, the dentist will carefully remove the old crown from the tooth. This may involve cutting and removing any cement or adhesive that was used to secure the crown in place.
Impression: An impression of the prepared tooth is taken to create a custom-made crown that matches the shape and alignment of your other teeth. The impression may be done using a putty-like material or digitally scanned.
Temporary crown: While waiting for the permanent crown to be created, a temporary crown may be placed to protect the prepared tooth. Temporary crowns are typically made from acrylic or composite materials and are less durable than the final crown.
Crown placement: Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist’s office for its placement. The dentist will remove the temporary crown, check the fit and color of the new crown, and make any necessary adjustments. Once satisfied, the permanent crown is bonded or cemented onto the tooth.
Bite adjustment and polishing: The dentist will ensure that your bite is properly aligned with the new crown. They may make minor adjustments to ensure a comfortable and functional bite. Finally, the crown is polished to give it a smooth and natural appearance.

Throughout the process, you may experience some discomfort or pressure, but it should not be overly painful. If you have concerns about pain or if you experience significant discomfort during or after the procedure, it’s important to communicate with your dentist so that they can address your needs. Schedule an appointment with Sampson Dentistry if you are in need of a crown.

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What Causes Tooth Decay?

October 22, 2024 | by James Sampson | Blog

Tooth decay can be caused by much more than just poor oral hygiene. So, what causes tooth decay? Tooth decay is often a symptom or warning sign of something much more dangerous, happening in the body.

When you visit your local dentist for an exam, like your Hoover Alabama dentist, they are looking at more than just the physical appearance of your teeth. We are trying to understand the entire picture, along with what your mouth and oral health is telling us.

Common Diseases That Cause Tooth Decay

The mouth is a window to the rest of the body and will often show warning signs that there’s something bigger going on. Here are some of the diseases that frequently cause tooth decay. If you suffer from any of these conditions, be sure to discuss with your dentist at your next appointment.

Diabetes

Diabetes has perhaps the most significant cause and effect relationship with tooth decay. Whether you have type I or type II diabetes, your body’s blood sugar is elevated because of lowered insulin levels. This impacts many parts of the body, and the mouth is a big part of that.

As the tooth decay continues to build up, the risk for gum disease also increases. Gum disease is caused as bacteria continues to build up in your mouth. In fact, about a quarter of all people diagnosed with diabetes also develop gum disease.

Autoimmune Conditions

Autoimmune conditions are a family of diseases that involve the body attacking parts of itself. This can include everything from major organ systems, like the kidneys, to smaller systems like salivary glands. Many of these diseases have some impact on the mouth, but the one most directly tied to oral health is Sjögren’s syndrome.

People with Sjögren’s may need to visit the dentist more frequently than twice per year to keep tabs on tooth decay that results from decreased saliva production. There are also over the counter lozenges, mouthwashes, and other products that can help increase saliva production and manage symptoms day-to-day.

Anorexia and Bulimia

Both anorexia and bulimia are severe eating disorders. They occur when men or women have an extreme fear of becoming overweight and either eat less or regurgitate food as a result.

Both conditions have implications on the teeth because the body is not getting the minerals, vitamins, proteins and other nutrients that it needs to maintain good oral health and prevent tooth decay from forming. When people with anorexia do eat, they tend to fill up on sugary, salty, unhealthy foods that are bad for your teeth.

Avoid Tooth Decay with Total Body Care

These are just a few of the more common diseases that cause tooth decay. The connections between your mouth and the rest of your body are not always apparent which is why it’s important to share your medical history with your dentist. We hope you visit Sampson Dentistry for a dental appointment soon!

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Dental X-Rays Safe During Pregnancy?

October 19, 2024 | by James Sampson | Blog

Are dental x-rays safe during pregnancy? Pregnancy is an exciting time and, it does not mean that you should abandon your dental care routine.

One question we often receive at Sampson Dentistry is whether dental X-rays are safe during pregnancy. The short answer is yes, dental X-rays are safe to have during pregnancy. But there are some other factors you may want to consider as you are planning your dental care during this time.

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Dental X-Rays Safe During Pregnancy?

The amount of radiation used in a dental X-ray is very low and, according to both the American Dental Association and the American Pregnancy Association is not enough to cause any harm to a pregnant woman or her baby.

If you’ve had dental X-rays in the past, you probably remember the dentist or hygienist placing a heavy apron over you before turning on the X-ray machine. This is a leaded apron that is designed to minimize exposure to radiation during the X-ray process.

The apron is long enough to cover the abdomen, which means a baby is protected during the X-ray process. It might seem like a nuisance, but this is definitely one of those situations where it’s better to be safe than sorry.

The apron will feel heavy when your dentist or hygienist puts it on, but it is safe to use at all stages of pregnancy.

Making the Best Dental Care Decisions For Mothers To Be.

Even though the dental X-ray process is safe to undertake throughout pregnancy, some women make proactive choices to limit their exposure to X-rays and other procedures during this time.

You should notify your dentist as soon as possible after you become pregnant. You can work with your dentist to develop a treatment plan that will work for you and your baby.

Some women choose to postpone X-rays until after the end of the first trimester. This is because, it is the most crucial time for the baby’s development. This is not medically necessary but may help provide peace of mind.

Routine dental X-rays can also be postponed until after the baby is born, but this is not something we recommend. X-rays are critical to detecting dental issues that could become serious if they are not detected and treated.

Start the Conversation

Sampson Dentistry works with moms-to-be to develop treatment plans that meet their dental health needs. We will always look out for the health of our patient’s babies.

Dental care should not stop just because you are pregnant and dental X-rays are no exception. If you have additional questions or would like to discuss your specific situation with one of our dentists, please don’t hesitate to make an appointment.

Are You Grinding Your Teeth While You Sleep?

October 17, 2024 | by James Sampson | Blog

No matter how diligently you care for your teeth during the day, you might be harming your teeth overnight. Are You Grinding Your Teeth While You Sleep? Many people experience teeth grinding and jaw clenching, while they sleep or in stressful situations.

Over time, these actions can wear on your mouth and cause permanent damage if they are not addressed.

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Causes and Symptoms of Grinding Your Teeth

The most common reasons for teeth grinding and jaw clenching are stress and anxiety. This can occur during the day or while you are sleeping. Even if you are wide awake, you might not even realize that you are doing it.

Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, is one of many ways that our body physically manifests stress even if our minds aren’t aware of it. The next time you are in a high-stress situation, pay attention to what’s happening in your mouth. Are you clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth around?

Other risk factors for teeth grinding include substance abuse (drugs, alcohol, caffeine), sleep apnea, and bite and alignment issues.

You might notice that your teeth begin to wear down in odd patterns over time. These changes might not be obvious at first since many people grind their molars and back teeth that are not always very visible.

Long-term jaw clenching can lead to earaches and headaches. You might think that you have an ear infection or a migraine, but the cause is actually the jaw because of how closely it’s related to the other parts of your face.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Teeth Grinding

The best way to confirm whether or not you are grinding your teeth, is to mention your symptoms to your dentist at your next appointment. Your dentist can review the wear patterns on your teeth and examine your jaw to determine whether you’ve been grinding or clenching without realizing it.

From there, your dentist will likely prescribe a mouth guard, which will prevent your teeth from touching while you sleep and give you something to bite into if you clench your jaw. It won’t take long before you are waking up pain-free and more refreshed as a result of better sleep.

The mouth guard will probably take some getting used to, but it’s important that you stick with it and continue wearing it. Your mouth will adjust over time and you’ll soon be wondering how you ever slept without one.

How to Get the Help You Need

If you’ve been waking up with an unusual feeling in your mouth or jaw, you might be suffering from bruxism.

Our team at Sampson Dentistry will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan based on your specific symptoms and lifestyle

How Often Should I Take My Child To The Dentist?

October 13, 2024 | by James Sampson | Blog

How Often should I take my child to the dentist? If you are asking this question then first know that you are not alone. Most parents are not sure exactly when is the perfect time to schedule their child’s first dentist appointment.

Should your child wait and go after the first tooth comes in or maybe after all their teeth come in? According to the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child’s first scheduled dental visit should occur within six months of the first tooth erupting, but no later than by age two.

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Your Child’s first dental appointment generally is more about learning their teeth and the importance of taking care of them versus an actual examination. Typically your dentist will not do an actual exam. They may peek inside your child’s mouth so they can make sure the teeth are coming in properly and there is no bottle rot, but generally, this visit is more about building trust and awareness. Your child’s dentist will often explain all of their tools, what they are for, and why they are important. Establishing trust and building a relationship with the dentist often helps the child overcome dental fears later on as they grow and have actual appointments, or even avoid dental anxieties all together.

What Happens After a Child’s First Dental Visit?

After your child’s first visit, it is highly recommended they visit the dentist every six months, unless there is a health concern. Common concerns that call for a visit early include a lisp, teeth grinding, and mouth breathing. Once your child is ready for their second visit, this is where your dentist will begin to work on your child’s teeth. Typically, the second dentist visit will include counting the child’s teeth and brushing them with cleaning paste. Dentists often introduce treatments in stages for two reasons, one, they may not have all of their teeth and be quite ready for advanced treatments, and two, to slowly build trust and ease fears. It generally isn’t until the third visit, or after the age of three were they start receiving more advanced treatments, such as fluoride treatments.

A great way to minimize the fears of going to the dentist, is when you bring your child to one of your dental exams. When they see the dentist working on your teeth, it can help ease fears. Remember, it is never too early to begin proper oral care.

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How to Choose The Right Dentist?

September 22, 2024 | by James Sampson | Blog

Choosing the right dentist is an important decision that can have a significant impact on your dental health. Here are some tips to help you choose the right dentist for your needs:

Check for credentials: Look for a dentist who is licensed by your state’s dental board and has proper credentials. You can check with the American Dental Association or your state dental association to verify a dentist’s credentials.
Ask for recommendations: Ask family, friends, and coworkers for recommendations on dentists they trust. Also ask if they have had good experiences with the dentist you chose.
Consider location and convenience: Choose a dentist who is conveniently located to your home or work. Location makes it easy to schedule and attend appointments.
Read reviews: Look for online reviews of the dentist to get an idea of their reputation and the experiences of other patients.
Evaluate the dentist’s communication skills: Choose a dentist who is easy to communicate with. Also make sure they take the time to answer your questions and concerns.
Consider their areas of expertise: If you have specific dental needs or conditions, choose a dentist with expertise in those areas.
Check for availability and office hours: Choose a dentist who has flexible office hours that work with your schedule, and is available for emergency dental care.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with Sampson dentistry, please call or fill out the form below to schedule an appointment.

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How to Choose The Right Dentist?

By taking the time to carefully evaluate potential dentists in Hoover Alabama based on these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose a dentist who meets your needs and provides the best possible dental care.

What Happens if You Don’t Repair a Chipped Tooth?

May 30, 2024 | by admin | Blog

So, what happens if you don’t repair a chipped tooth? A little chip on a tooth may not seem like a big deal, especially if it is a molar that no one can see. Smaller chips are usually not problematic unless they are sharp, then they could possibly cut your mouth. However, if your chipped tooth is significant enough, it could lead to more serious problems such as pain, hot/cold sensitivity, bad breath, swollen glands, and even infected roots.

Sharp edges can cut your cheek, tongue, and gums
Deep chips can impact the root of the tooth, leading to potential infections or tooth aches
Deep chips can cause tooth decay resulting in sensitivity and bad breath
Chips of all sizes can grow bigger and cause larger issues resulting in the need for root canals or extractions

When do you need to repair a Chipped tooth?

You should always visit the dentist when you chip a tooth. For minor chips, you typically won’t need a major repair. More often than not, your dentist in Hoover Alabama can just file the chipped tooth or fill it with a dermal bond so it looks normal again. However, more significant cracks can require more extensive dental work.

If a chip is significant enough, it can damage the pulp that is inside the tooth. The dental pulp is the center of your tooth, made up of living tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue.

Damage to the pulp can be extremely painful and, if untreated, can become infected. If this happens, you could be in for more extensive dental work.

Call the staff at Sampson Dentistry in Hoover Alabama to have your crack tooth fixed.

Why Should I Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings?

May 23, 2024 | by admin | Blog

Be sure to schedule regular dental appointments with Sampson Dentistry to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Regular dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. Here are some reasons why you should schedule regular dental cleanings:

Prevent Tooth Decay: Even with regular brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth. If left untreated, this can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Dental cleanings remove this buildup and prevent tooth decay.
Prevent Gum Disease: Gum disease is a common problem that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Regular cleanings can help prevent gum disease by removing plaque and tartar buildup from your gums.
Early Detection of Dental Problems: During a dental cleaning, your dentist or hygienist will also check for any signs of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
Freshen Your Breath: Bad breath can be caused by bacteria in your mouth. Regular cleanings remove the bacteria and leave your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
Save Money: Regular dental cleanings can help prevent dental problems that require expensive treatments such as root canals, fillings, or extractions. By investing in regular cleanings, you can save money on future dental treatments.

So why should I schedule regular dental cleanings? In summary, regular dental cleanings are essential to maintaining good oral health, preventing dental problems, and saving money in the long run. Be sure to schedule regular dental appointments with Sampson Dentistry to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

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Does Soda and Juice Affect Toddler’s Teeth

April 18, 2024 | by admin | Blog

Tooth decay is a dental health issue that affect children. One of the biggest culprits of tooth decay in young kids come from many of the drinks that we give them. Does soda and juice affect toddler’s teeth?

The World Health Organization (WHO) advises limiting sugar to only 10% of a toddler’s daily caloric intake. At three years old, daily caloric intake is roughly 1,100 calories. That equates to only 5.5 teaspoons of added sugar a day. Most sodas and juices contain nearly triple that amount in a single serving!

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Does Brushing Teeth After Drinking Soda Help Avoid Tooth Decay?

Brushing your toddler’s teeth after consuming soda or juice can help to rid the mouth of the acid causing bacteria. However, doctors recommend to wait at least 30 to 60 minutes after consuming sugary drinks. It is recommended to swish the mouth out with water. This can be done immediately after consuming a sugary drink.

How Does Sugar Decay Teeth?

Before you completely ditch all forms of sugar, it is important to understand how sugar affects tooth enamel. Sugar alone is not the issue. What does cause the damage is acid.

When bacteria in your toddler’s mouth use sugar as their food source to break down into energy, acids are released. This acid then begins to break down the enamel and remove important minerals from your toddler’s teeth. The end result… tooth decay, rot, cavities, toothaches, and tooth sensitivity.

How Can My Toddler Avoid Tooth Decay?

The obvious answer is to avoid sugary substances. However, the occasional sugary treat is okay. A fun way to get your toddler to drink more water is by adding fruit. Fruit infused water provides a delicious flavor without adding refined sugars and other harmful ingredients.

Hoover Alabama Dental Consultations

March 18, 2024 | by admin | Blog

Hoover Alabama dental consultations are a non-invasive visit with your dental care provider where you can discuss your issues, concerns, and treatment options. Many of our dentists offer free consultations, though others do ask for a small consultation fee to cover their time. If you’re considering any major dental procedure, a consultation is a good idea, and can be important for several reasons. Read on to learn more.

Understanding the Procedure

Some dental procedures are quite complex. Before you settle into the chair for the complete treatment, it’s important to know what’s ahead. Your consultation is the perfect time to ask all your questions and a get a detailed explanation of what will take place while you’re in the chair. In many cases, our dentists can offer a helpful visual, using tooth models and product samples to help you better understand each step of the procedure. If you’re nervous, this may also help to ease some of your tension or fear.

Exploring Payment Options

Some dental procedures come with a high price tag. At your consultation, our dentists will be happy to discuss payment options and our administrative staff will be happy to contact your insurance provider, if you have one, to determine what portion of the bill you’re responsible for. Most of our offices will typically provide one, but if not, you should request a written estimate for the procedure. If you don’t feel that you can pay the sum in one visit, ask about payment plans. Many of our offices will separate the bill into several smaller payments to ease the strain on your budget.

Hoover Alabama Dental Consultations

A dental consultation gives you a better idea of what’s ahead and how to proceed. You can consult with several dentists to get a well-rounded view of the issue and available treatments, or move forward and schedule your procedure if you feel confident after the first meeting. But either way, a consultation visit should give you all the information you need.