A dental crown is a cap that goes over the entire tooth to cover it. Crowns are usually made of porcelain or ceramic, although they can also be made of other materials, like gold. Crowns can be matched to the color of your surrounding teeth.

The benefits of having a dental crown include:

• Protecting a weak tooth from breaking or breaking.
• Covering a tooth that is discolored.
• Covering a tooth that has a large, misshapen filling.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of a false tooth (pontic) held in place by two dental crowns. It is custom-made to fit over the remaining teeth. It’s shaped to perfectly match your natural teeth’s size, shape, and color.

The benefits of bridges.

• They prevent teeth from shifting.
• They restore proper chewing function.
• They prevent teeth from breaking.
• They improve the appearance of your smile.

Caring for Dental Crowns and Bridges

If you want your dental restoration to last as long as possible, it’s important to know how to care for it.

Keep the crown or bridge clean. Clean it at least once a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste, and gently floss underneath it. Avoid flossing the restoration directly to avoid damaging the restoration. Avoid biting down on hard foods, ice or other objects and refrain from grinding your teeth.

Dental bridges can last 5-15 years, or even longer. With proper daily oral hygiene and regular dental visits, your dental bridge can stand up to time. However, it’s important to remember that the lifespan of your dental bridge depends on the health of your surrounding teeth and gums. For example, if you have periodontal disease and bacteria build up around the bridge, you should come in for an exam as soon as possible.

Call us at (801) 716-7006, request an appointment online, or walk into our office at 11576 S State St Suite #1201, Draper, UT 84020. Our team of doctors, hygienists, and coordinators will ensure you get the best care.

The post Restorative Treatment: Crowns and Bridges first appeared on Westwood Dental.

Dental veneers are thin shells of medical-grade ceramic or resin material which are bonded to the front of your teeth. Veneers can help to mask a variety of dental imperfections, including minor dental misalignment, minor staining, and chips or cracks. They are used in the cosmetic dentistry field as a way to correct minor to major dental problems,

Advantages of Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are a great way to fix a number of cosmetic dental issues, including:

• Discoloration
• Misaligned teeth
• Small gaps
• Worn teeth
• Chips
• Cracks
• Mild misalignment
• Minor bite issues
• Crooked teeth

How Long Do Dental Veneers Take?

It can take about two or three visits to the office to complete your entire veneer treatment. At your first visit, we will prepare your tooth for the veneer. An impression will be taken of your tooth. This impression will be sent to our lab, where your custom veneer will be created. In the meantime, we will provide you with a beautiful temporary restoration. Once your veneer is ready, you will come back into the office for your second visit. At this visit, your temporary restoration will be removed and replaced with your new veneer.

Dental Veneer Maintenance

Veneers are stain-resistant. That’s great news if coffee, wine, and tomato sauce are regular parts of your diet. You’ll still be able to drink and eat your favorite foods without your veneers eroding. However, you should still practice good oral hygiene. That includes brushing and flossing your teeth daily. Avoid chewing on ice or hard candies and wear a mouthguard when playing sports.

Call us at (801) 716-7006, request an appointment online, or walk into our office at 11576 S State St Suite #1201, Draper, UT 84020. Our team of doctors, hygienists, and coordinators will ensure you get the best care.

The post Dental Veneers 101: All You Need to Know first appeared on Westwood Dental.

Bad Breath

Bad breath can be embarrassing. It also can be a sign of something more serious, such as gum disease. Gum disease is often caused by not brushing your teeth enough or not brushing well enough. If the condition goes untreated, it could cause tooth loss.

The best way to deal with bad breath is to get deep cleanings. The dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth. This will eliminate any bacteria that might be growing in your mouth. The dentist will also remove any plaque or tartar from your teeth, both things that can cause bad breath.

Bleeding Gums

Having gums that bleed when you brush or floss may mean it’s time for deep cleaning. When patients notice bleeding gums, they may think that it is because they haven’t brushed or flossed correctly. However, this might not be the case. If patients have chronic issues with bleeding gums, it may be a sign that they need a deep cleaning.

Receding Gums

Healthy gums have a firm, pink color. Once your gums begin to recede, your smile may become very noticeable. This is because the roots of your teeth are exposed and can cause pain, sensitivity, and damage.

Red, Sensitive Gums

Are your gums red, swollen, and tender? You could have gum disease. Gum disease, also called gingivitis, is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth and causes gums to become inflamed. If your gum disease is severe, you may also notice that your gums are receding, pulling away from your teeth.

If your gums are red, swollen, and tender, you need to visit your dentist as soon as possible. Gum disease is treatable, but the longer you have it, the worse it can get.

At Westwood Dental, our experienced team provides emergency dental care for patients in Draper, Utah. To schedule an appointment, call (801) 716-7006 or visit our office at 11576 S State St Suite #1201, Draper, UT 84020.

The post Signs That You Need a Deep Cleaning Session first appeared on Westwood Dental.

• Severe decay
• Periodontal (gum) disease
• Impacted wisdom teeth
• Orthodontic treatment

Types of Extractions

• Simple extractions
• Surgical extractions
• Simple Extraction

A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that is visible in the mouth. The dentist will use forceps to rock the tooth back and forth to dislodge it. This extraction method is usually used for teeth that are visible above the gum line.

The patient will be given a local anesthetic before the extraction. Nitrous oxide may also be used to keep the patient relaxed during the process. An increase in salivation is also common during this type of extraction.

Surgical Extraction

A surgical extraction is a last resort when a tooth cannot be saved. Surgical extractions involve removing a tooth from its socket and suturing up the gums. This procedure is typically only recommended if the tooth has been broken, is impacted or has not erupted from the gum. Typically, surgical extractions are done on wisdom teeth.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

The most common form of dental extraction is removing a tooth that is fully or partially erupted. An impacted tooth can be painful, and may also cause alignment issues. Impacted teeth occur when the tooth is prevented from erupting into the proper alignment. This can occur as a result of overcrowding in the mouth. When teeth are in a misaligned position, the opposing teeth tend to shift, which can result in a narrow arch or an overbite. Impacted teeth can also become infected.

An extraction is the best option for patients who experience extreme pain from a tooth that cannot be repaired through other dental treatments. It s best advised to visit an experienced dentist at the earliest to avoid further dental complications.

At Westwood Dental, our experienced team provides emergency dental care for patients in Draper, Utah. To schedule an appointment, call (801) 716-7006 or visit our office at 11576 S State St Suite #1201, Draper, UT 84020.

The post Dental Extractions: Types and Procedure first appeared on Westwood Dental.

Pick up the tooth

Hold the tooth by the crown. It is important to not touch the root of the tooth. Rinse the tooth with water if the root is dirty.

Rinse it off

After you clean the tooth, gently rinse it with water. Do not scrub the tooth. This could cause further damage and delay treatment.

Hold the tooth by the top, not the root (bottom). Avoid touching the root of the tooth, which may still be exposed. Try to gently place the tooth back in its socket or place it between your gums and cheek. If it does not work out, go to the next step.

Place it in milk or saliva

If this isn’t possible, place the tooth in milk or saliva. Within 30 minutes, visit the emergency dentist. The sooner a dentist can reattach the tooth, the more likely it will reattach successfully.

Prepare for dental surgery

Once a dentist confirms a knocked-out tooth, it’s important to keep the area clean and free from dust. You can use a soft damp cloth, but avoid touching the roots.

Once the tooth has been put back in place, your dentist will likely apply a splint to protect the tooth. The splint will help keep the tooth in place and reduce the risk of it moving.

Get back to normal activities

If you are playing contact sports, be sure to wear a mouthguard. Additionally, you should avoid eating hard or crunchy foods. When you bite into something hard, it can damage the enamel on your teeth.

You should also avoid chewing on hard items such as ice or pens. When your tooth has been knocked out, it is extremely important to go see your dentist right away. Call your dentist and schedule an appointment. That way, you can get your tooth fixed and reduce the risk of complications.

Call us at (801) 716-7006, request an appointment online, or walk into our office at 11576 S State St Suite #1201, Draper, UT 84020. Our team of doctors, hygienists, and coordinators will ensure you get the best care.

The post This Is How you Save a Knocked out Tooth first appeared on Westwood Dental.

Why Have Dental Implants?

If you have missing teeth or severely damaged teeth that are simply beyond repair, you’re probably wondering if there is a solution for you. After all, a damaged smile can significantly impact your confidence, and no one deserves to feel as if they can’t smile fully because of the way their teeth look.

If you find yourself in this situation, dental implants may be an option worth considering. Dental implant surgery is an excellent way to replace all missing or damaged teeth and restore your smile to its former glory. However, before scheduling your appointment, you should consider the various factors that may affect your candidacy.

What Would Qualify You for Dental Implants?

Here are some things to think about if you want to know if you’re a good candidate for dental implants:

Gum Health

Because dental implants are placed in your gums, just like your natural teeth, it’s critical that you have good gum health before proceeding with the implant procedure. If you have gum disease, you will need to treat your gingivitis or periodontitis first.

Bone Density

In addition to gum health, having a healthy jawbone and enough bone density in your jaw is required for dental implant placement. Implants are distinct from other tooth-replacement options such as bridges and dentures in that they are surgically implanted into the bone. As a result, there must be enough bone to properly anchor the implant in place. If you have insufficient bone density in your jaw, you may be able to receive a bone graft to clear you for implant surgery.

Non-Use of Tobacco 

Because overall good oral health is required for dental implants, smokers may be ineligible for the restorative procedure. Tobacco use is not only harmful to your dental health, but it can also impede your recovery after the implant is placed.

Seeing a dentist is the best way to find out if you’re a good candidate for dental implants. We at Eastwood Dental provide implant dentistry and would be happy to assess your candidacy. Call at (801) 716-7006 or email us at westwooddental1201@gmail.com today to schedule an appointment. Our dental office is at 11576 S State St Suite #1201, Draper, UT 84020.

The post Am I a Candidate for Dental Implant? first appeared on Westwood Dental.

Common Dental Emergencies

• Abscesses/Infections

Abscesses and infections are commonly caused by poor dental hygiene or gum disease. If you have a chronic health condition, such as diabetes, you may be at a higher risk. If not treated promptly, oral infections can spread throughout the body.

• Cracked or Broken Tooth/Teeth

A broken tooth can occur as a result of biting down on hard foods or candy, or by trauma to the face. If you have a fractured tooth, you must recover the missing parts and immediately see a dentist so that the tooth can be fixed.

• Knocked-Out Teeth

Having one or more teeth knocked out is a dental emergency. A knocked-out tooth is frequently caused by accidents or trauma to the face. If you manage to recover the knocked-out tooth/teeth and see a dentist as soon as possible, they may be able to reimplant the teeth.

• Severe Toothache

Severe toothaches can be caused by cavities, the loss of a filling, gum disease, or inflammation. You should see a dentist as soon as possible to determine the source of the pain and get treatment.

First Aid for Dental Emergencies

• Cold Compresses and Pain Relievers

For oral injuries, swelling, and toothaches, applying a cold and wet washcloth or an ice pack to the side of your face may be beneficial. You can also take a pain reliever, such as Tylenol, or use an oral anesthetic to assist in minimizing pain before you get to an emergency dentist’s office.

• If Possible, Locate Knocked-Out Teeth or Broken Parts

Find the missing fragments or the knocked-out tooth and save them for reimplantation or reattachment. When dealing with teeth that have been entirely knocked out, it is critical not to touch the root. If possible, clean the tooth and bite down on a clean, sterile piece of gauze until you reach the dentist to maximize your chances of restoring the tooth.

• Mouth Rinse 

Before you visit an emergency dentist, you can use a warm salt water mouth rinse to relieve discomfort and draw out infections if you have a mouth injury, an infection, an abscess, or a toothache.

At Westwood Dental, our experienced team provides emergency dental care for patients in  Draper, Utah. To schedule an appointment, call (801) 716-7006 or visit our office at 11576 S State St Suite #1201, Draper, UT 84020.

The post Common Dental Emergencies and First Aid first appeared on Westwood Dental.

You Are What You Eat

There is an interdependence between nutrition and oral health. Nutrition is defined as the intake and absorption of nutrients from food and beverages. The type of food you eat also affects your dental health.

6 Foods That Badly Affect Your Teeth

There are a variety of food items bad for your teeth. Below are some of them:

• Sugary food items – Food such as candies, lollipops, and cakes contain high amounts of sugar. Sticky sugary foods are the nemesis of teeth.
• Soft Drinks – Soft drinks contain large amounts of sugar and acid. This can lead to dental erosion. Use a straw to reduce the impact on teeth.
• Pickles – Vinegar also has a high concentration of acid. Acid can erode your tooth enamel.
• Citrus fruits – Citrus fruits contain a lot of acid. Consuming excess citric fruits can damage your teeth.
• Popcorn – Popcorn gets stuck in between your teeth and areas where brushes cannot reach. Remember to floss and rinse your mouth after your popcorn treat.
• Dried fruits – They get trapped and stick to the teeth, causing sugar to be left behind.

Healthy Alternatives for Your Teeth

• Fiber-rich fruits – Fruits like apples, prunes, and pears help stimulate saliva flow, protecting your teeth.
• Dairy products – Calcium and phosphate contained in dairy products help rebuild damaged enamel.
• Leafy vegetables – Vegetables such as spinach and leeks are good sources of calcium and protect teeth enamel.
• Black and green tea – These help to kill bacteria that cause plaque formation on your tooth.
• Sugarless chewing gum – This helps to remove leftover particles from your teeth.
• Food With Fluoride – This helps to strengthen your enamel and prevent cavities. Seafood and yams are good sources of fluoride. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste also helps protect your tooth.

V for Vitamins

Vitamins are essential for healthy teeth, too! Teeth enamels are made up of phosphate and calcium. Vitamin D helps to absorb calcium from your food intake. On the other hand, low levels of vitamin D are linked with gum diseases and tooth decay in adults. Thirty minutes of exposure to natural sunlight could be a great source of Vitamin D.

Schedule regular visits with our experts at Westwood Dental, 11576 S State St Suite #1201, Draper, UT 84020. Call us to book an appointment at (801) 716-7006.

The post 6 Foods That May Be Bad for Your Teeth first appeared on Westwood Dental.

Because bonding and veneers are so similar, it’s natural to wonder if you’re a better fit for one or the other. At Westwood Dental in Draper, UT, Dr. Reynolds can help you choose the best dental treatments based on your specific requirements.

What Is Bonding?

Dental bonding has been used in dentistry for many years as a low-cost and straightforward technique to fix teeth imperfections. Its primary advantages are that it is non-invasive and that it can be used to fix flaws ranging from tooth discoloration to gaps and spacing.

Dental bonding is an excellent solution for minor issues like chips in a tooth or restoring teeth after tooth decay treatments.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are a high-end, high-quality cosmetic dental procedure. The veneers we offer patients in Draper, Utah, can help you achieve a more harmonious and aesthetically pleasing look by transforming a dull or uneven smile.

The following are the main benefits of porcelain veneers:

• Porcelain, unlike traditional bonded restorations, does not stain
• Veneers can last up to 10 years if properly cared for
• Dental veneers are extremely strong and resistant to abrasion
• They are created to match your adjacent teeth and your natural smile

Veneers vs Bonding

Although bonding and veneers are both excellent solutions, there are significant differences when it comes to the specifics of each treatment.

Bonding is usually the best option for someone who wants to correct or repair a single tooth or a minor defect. Dental veneers, on the other hand, can change the appearance of your entire smile and fix multiple flaws as they cover the entire tooth.

Here’s a rundown of some of the key distinctions between bonding and veneers:

• Cost: While bonding normally costs between $100 and $500, veneers can cost up to $1500 per tooth.
• Time:  Bonding is completed in a single dental visit, whereas veneers may require two to three dental visits.
• Appearance: Veneers have a more translucent and natural appearance than bonding.

If you want to find out if bonding or veneers are the right option for you, or if you have any questions about these treatments, get in touch with Westwood Dental in Draper, UT, at (801) 716-7006 and 11576 S State St Suite #1201, Draper, UT 84020.

The post Is Bonding as Good as Veneers? first appeared on Westwood Dental.

Floss can get to places your toothbrush can’t, such as between your teeth and beneath your gum line. Here are a few benefits of flossing according to our expert dentist, Dr. Reynolds, at Westwood Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Draper, UT.

What Are the Benefits of Flossing?

Fights Tooth Decay

Plaque is a soft white substance that naturally grows on the surface of your teeth. Plaque bacteria feed on the sugars you eat and then excrete toxic acids that erode your tooth enamel. When you have food lodged between your teeth or in hard-to-reach places, the harmful bacteria go on a feeding frenzy and gradually erode your teeth.

Cavities are most typically detected between your teeth because of this. Flossing is an efficient way to remove food particles and protect your teeth from decay.

Prevents Gum Disease

Bacteria can affect your gums in the same way it can harm your tooth enamel. When bacteria produce acids as a result of food caught in between your teeth, these acids can cause gum inflammation. In turn, this inflammation can cause gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease.

Flossing is a crucial component of any oral healthcare routine and is quite helpful in preventing this process from occurring.

Prevents Tartar Buildup

Plaque grows naturally in your mouth. Fortunately, it is soft and easy to remove from your teeth with simple brushing and flossing techniques. If plaque is left on your teeth for an extended period, it calcifies and transforms into tartar, a blackish-brown substance. Tartar is tough to remove at home and should only be removed by a dental professional.

To avoid having to visit the dentist, we strongly advise you to floss regularly to eliminate plaque between your teeth and gums.

Eliminates Bad Breath

While foul breath can be caused by a variety of medical conditions, one of the most common causes is bacteria. This issue is quite prevalent in those who do not floss regularly, causing bacteria and food debris to accumulate between the teeth. Flossing regularly helps remove harmful germs, keeping your breath fresh.

For more information on properly maintaining your oral health, contact Westwood Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry by calling (801) 716-7006 or visiting us at 11576 S State St Suite #1201, Draper, UT 84020. 

The post Why You Should Floss Every Day first appeared on Westwood Dental.