Thousand Oaks Dental Blog

Understanding Dental Crowns: A Comprehensive Guide

April 1, 2023 Dental CrownswebreportingComments Off on Understanding Dental Crowns: A Comprehensive Guide

At Thousand Oaks Dental, we specialize in restoring smiles! We offer a range of therapeutic dental solutions to help you achieve a healthier, happier smile. From root canal therapy to dental crowns, our team of experienced professionals is here in San Antonio, Texas, to give you quality, personalized care. 

 

We ensure that your restorative treatments are as comfortable and effective as possible. So, if you’re looking for the best place to improve the health and appearance of your teeth, you will find it at Thousand Oaks Dental.

 

What Are Dental Crowns?

We’re here today to discuss dental crowns: what they are, why you might need one, and what the process entails. Dental crowns are a popular and standard restorative procedure and for a good reason. We want to give our patients a thorough understanding of this process so they can make informed decisions about their dental health. 

 

Dental crowns are “caps” placed over a damaged tooth to restore size, shape, and function. They can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or metal, and are custom-made to fit over the tooth. Crowns can be used to address many dental issues, including:

 

  • Broken or chipped teeth
  • Severely decayed teeth
  • Misshapen teeth
  • Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy
  • To cover a dental implant

 

Why Get a Dental Crown?

Dr. Thompson may recommend a dental crown if you have significant dental damage or decay that we cannot address with a filling. We often use crowns when the tooth is too damaged for a filling but not damaged enough to require extraction. We can also use them to protect a weak tooth, hold a dental bridge in place, or enhance the appearance of a misshapen tooth.

 

The process of getting a dental crown typically requires two appointments. During the first appointment, our team will prepare the damaged tooth by removing the damaged portion and shaping it to fit the crown. We will then take an impression of your teeth to create a mold for the crown. We will fit you with a temporary crown while the permanent one is being made. In the second appointment, we will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent crown in place using specialized dental cement.

 

The cost of dental crowns can vary depending on a few factors, like the material used for the crown and any additional procedures necessary before the crown can be placed. We strive to provide affordable dental care without sacrificing quality. We believe dental care should be accessible to everyone, and we make every effort to ensure our prices are fair and transparent.

And dental crowns can last a long time. The length of time varies for each patient depending on their dental hygiene habits and the material used for the crown. However, on average, dental crowns can last 10-15 years with proper care. 

 

Caring for Your Dental Crown

Once your dental crown is in place, taking good care of it is essential to ensure its longevity. Practice good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, to keep your crowned tooth and surrounding teeth healthy. Avoid hard or chewy foods that could damage your crown, and avoid using your teeth to open packages or bottles. Regular dental checkups are also important to ensure the crown is still in good condition and functioning correctly.

 

Thousand Oaks Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are a standard and effective restorative procedure in dentistry, and Thousand Oaks Dental is here to help you understand the process involved. If you need a dental crown or have any questions, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Dr. Precious Thompson and her team. We’re committed to helping our patients achieve optimal oral health and providing the best care possible. Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you soon at Thousand Oaks Dental.

How to Celebrate Gum Disease Awareness Month

February 1, 2023 Care News, Daily Health Tips, Family Dentistry, General, General Dentistry, Gum Disease, Preventive TreatmentwebreportingComments Off on How to Celebrate Gum Disease Awareness Month

Ah, it’s February again! A favorite month for many, it’s time for Valentine’s chocolates, flowers, and cute dates. However, have you ever considered giving that “special somebody” a Gum Disease Awareness brochure instead? While they might be mildly upset about the lack of chocolate, at least they won’t have to worry about gum disease! We also protect your loved ones by providing gum disease treatments in San Antonio, Texas. 

 

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a severe infection within the gums. Gym disease can cause bone decay, tooth loss, swollen gums, and bleeding if left unchecked. While genetics may occasionally link to gum disease is largely preventable with healthy habits. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups prevent most gum disease cases. 

 

How to Celebrate Gum Disease Awareness Month?

Ultimately, awareness is critical. If more people knew about gum disease and how to prevent it, we could save a lot of trouble in the future! While it may not be as popular as Christmas or Halloween, there’s always something we can do:

 

  • Step up Your Hygiene. Start by focusing on your sphere of control- which is yourself! Recommit to brushing twice a day, flossing, and bi-annual checkups. Pamper your gums with extra love and care with fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash and by brushing your tongue. Remember: everything is connected, and health in one area keeps other areas healthy.
  • Set up a Dental Checkup. If you haven’t already, set up your next appointment! Mark your calendar, and strive to keep healthy daily habits until then. If you have a family, remember to bring them as well!
  • Thank Your Local Dentist. Dentistry can be a pretty unthankful job. After all, it can be pretty stressful! Make their late-night hours a little sweeter with a gift. Be creative: a thank you card, a chocolate bar, or a new Bugatti could go a long way!
  • Spread the Word. Raise awareness for gum disease in any way you can. Tag #GumDiseaseAwarenessMonth on social media, share it with friends as a “fun fact,” or make a fun poster. We’re all in this together. 
  • Educate the Youth. Play a game, make flashcards, or surprise them with a new toothbrush. For families with children, this is an excellent opportunity to teach your children about gum disease, dental hygiene, and how to build healthy habits. Don’t let this chance slip!

 

Symptoms for Gum Disease

If you notice any or all of these symptoms, consult a dentist. After all, we want you to feel great!

 

  • Bleeding Gums. Unexplainable bleeding is a common symptom of gum disease. If you catch your gums bleeding without an apparent cause, it’s time to metaphysically “stop, drop, and roll.” 
  • Loose Teeth. Periodontitis has a nasty habit of weakening your gums and loosening your teeth. If you notice a loose tooth, it’s essential to act to prevent tooth loss. 
  • Mystery Pus. If you ever see mystery pus, it’s time to call for backup. Dr. Precious Thompson and our team will get to the bottom of this mystery better than Scooby-Doo ever could. 

 

Gum Disease Treatment in San Antonio, Texas 

This Gum Disease Awareness Month, we take a moment to remember all the good our gums do. After all, life would be tricky without a good pair of gums! Dr. Precious Thompson and our team know how precious your smile is. That’s why we work hard to keep your chompers chomping and your smiles smiling. Let’s celebrate this month by raising awareness for gum disease and improving our oral hygiene. 

 

Let’s keep your smile bright. Schedule an appointment today to get started.

TMJ Awareness Month: Do You Know the Signs of TMJ?

November 1, 2022 Emergency, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Preventive Treatment, Restorative Dentistry, TX, UncategorizedwebreportingComments Off on TMJ Awareness Month: Do You Know the Signs of TMJ?

Do you have jaw pain? At Thousand Oaks Dental, we offer all the dental services your family needs under one roof. We also provide essential services that are difficult to find at other dental offices, including TMJ treatment. We understand that jaw pain can interfere with your entire day, and we want to help you get out of pain quickly. We offer mouthguards, physical therapy, and heat and ice therapy to help you get relief.

Call us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Precious Thompson!

 

November is TMJ Awareness Month

November is TMJ Awareness Month, and we want to make sure our patients are informed about the signs and symptoms of TMJ. TMJ is a disorder that affects the temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull. When this joint is not functioning correctly, it can lead to various problems, including pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing.

 

What are the Signs of TMJ?

There are a few different signs that you may be suffering from TMJ. If you experience any of the following, we recommend scheduling an appointment with us so we can take a look:

– Pain in the jaw, face, neck, or shoulders

– Headaches

– Difficulty chewing or pain when chewing

– Clicking or popping sound when opening or closing the mouth

– Locked jaw

 

What Causes TMJ?

There are a few different factors that can contribute to TMJ. Some of the most common include:

– Arthritis in the joint

– Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

– Jaw injury 

– Stress 

 

How is TMJ treated?

The good news is that many different treatment options are available for TMJ. After examining you and assessing your symptoms, we will work with you to develop a treatment plan that may include any of the following: 

– Medication to relieve pain and inflammation 

If you are suffering from TMJ, you may seek relief from the pain and inflammation. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for TMJ, medication can be an effective treatment option. Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, can help to reduce swelling and ease the pain. If over-the-counter medications are insufficient, Dr. Thompson may prescribe a stronger pain reliever. In addition, corticosteroid injections can be used to reduce inflammation.

– Mouthguard to protect the teeth from grinding 

Do you wake up with a sore jaw or teeth? You may be surprised to learn that you are not alone. Millions of Americans suffer from bruxism, or tooth grinding, which is also a common cause of TMJ. Bruxism can occur during the day or at night, and it can cause a great deal of discomfort. Fortunately, there is a simple solution: a custom mouthguard. A mouth guard helps to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding and can also help to alleviate some of the pain and stiffness associated with TMJ. If you think you may be suffering from bruxism or TMJ, talk to our team about getting a custom mouthguard. It may be the first step on the road to feeling better.

– Physical therapy 

At Thousand Oaks Dental, we also offer physical therapy services to help you find relief from TMJ. Our trained team members can help you strengthen the muscles in your face and neck, which can help to relieve pain and improve jaw function. In addition, physical therapy can help you learn how to practice good posture and proper jaw alignment, both of which can help reduce TMJ symptoms.

– Heat and ice therapy

Applying a cold compress to the area for 15 minutes at a time can help to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort. Alternating between hot and cold compresses can also be beneficial. Heat and ice therapy can also be used to help reduce inflammation and pain associated with TMJ. 

 

TMJ Treatment for Relief in San Antonio, Texas

Our goal is to provide you with the best possible care so that you can get back to your life pain-free. If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms of TMJ, please schedule an appointment with us so we can take a look. We offer various services to meet your needs, and we will work with you to find the best treatment plan for your situation.

Thousand Oaks Dentist 78232

June 1, 2022 Cosmetic Dentist TX 78232, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns, Dental Implants, Emergency, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry, Sedation Dentistry, Teeth Whitening, UncategorizedThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on Thousand Oaks Dentist 78232

A healthy and beautiful smile can make you feel confident daily, but it requires an excellent dentist. If you are looking for a dentist who will take the time to get to know you and your dental health, you will find her in Dr. Precious Thompson. Dr. Thompson is a Thousand Oaks Dentist 78232 passionate about dentistry and will ensure her patients have healthy teeth for a lifetime. She provides personalized care that focuses on the individual, not just their teeth.

 

Finding the Right Dentist in the Thousand Oaks Area

Seeing the right dentist is essential for many reasons. First, they can help to prevent cavities and tooth decay. By regularly cleaning your teeth and providing fluoride treatments, dentists can help to keep your smile healthy and bright. And seeing the right dentist is an excellent way to maintain oral health. Just like seeing a doctor for regular checkups, seeing a dentist regularly can help ensure that your mouth stays healthy for years. 

When it comes to finding a dentist, there are a few things you should keep in mind. For one thing, you can ask around for recommendations. Your family and friends can be a great source of information regarding finding a good dentist. And don’t forget to check online reviews. We’d encourage you to read the online reviews posted about us because the quality of our care shows in the appreciation of our patients. 

Also, consider what your dental needs are. If you have healthy teeth and gums, you may be able to get by with a general dentist. However, if you have specific dental needs, you may need to see a specialist, such as an orthodontist or periodontist. One great thing about Thousand Oaks Dental is that we provide all the above services and more! 

We offer multiple dental services you need in one convenient location – everything from general dentistry to cosmetic dentistry. We’re a family dental office, providing care for any group, from toddlers to seniors. Our extensive service list includes:

We even specialize in convenient and health-promoting procedures that aren’t available at many dental offices, such as TMD therapy, sleep apnea treatment, customized athletic mouthguards, and wisdom teeth removal.

No matter your dental needs or condition, we are here to help. If you don’t see the service you need on our list, feel free to contact us. We’ll either care for your dental needs or find someone who can!

Another great way to find the right dentist for you is to schedule a free consultation and meet the doctor and the dental team. During your first appointment, our staff will warmly receive you, and we can give you a tour of our state-of-the-art San Antonio dental facility. We’ll ask about your medical history and any medications you are currently taking. We will also ask about your family’s dental history. This information is important in helping us determine what type of care you will need.

Dr. Thompson and her team will examine your teeth and gums if you have a checkup or teeth cleaning scheduled. We will look for any signs of decay or other problems. If we find anything, we can recommend a course of treatment.

Finally, we can talk to you about your oral hygiene habits. We can give you some helpful tips on how to brush and floss correctly. We may also recommend a specific type of toothpaste or mouthwash for you to use.

 

Skilled and Experienced Thousand Oaks Dentist 78232

Every patient is unique. That’s why Thousand Oaks Dental in San Antonio, Texas provides personalized care so you can feel comfortable and confident with your dental health.

Your dental goals are our dental goals at Thousand Oaks Dental. We’ll do everything we can to ensure your positive experience with us because we want you to be our lifelong patient! 

Request an appointment today on our website! We would love to see you at our office soon!

Thousand Oaks Cosmetic Dentist

May 1, 2022 Cosmetic Dentist TX 78232, Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Teeth WhiteningThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on Thousand Oaks Cosmetic Dentist

Thousand Oaks Dental offers a variety of cosmetic dentistry procedures in Thousand Oaks to improve your smile, including teeth whitening, dental implants, and veneers. Our goal is to give you a beautiful and natural-looking smile that will make you feel confident in any situation. Our cosmetic dentistry can improve not only your appearance but your oral health. And even the popular cosmetic procedures with fast results are very affordable. Your treatment will be as comfortable and stress-free as possible because we use only the latest and greatest dental technology and techniques.

 

What is Cosmetic Dentistry, and What Procedures Are Available?

Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of a person’s teeth. Many different procedures fall under the umbrella of cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening, bonding, veneers, and braces.

Many people undergo cosmetic dental procedures to boost their confidence and improve their smile. If you are interested in cosmetic dentistry, consult Dr. Precious Thompson to find out which strategies will best fit your individual needs.

Although most people think of cosmetic dentistry as simply a way to improve the appearance of your teeth, it can also positively impact your oral health and function. For example, one standard procedure is teeth whitening. Teeth whitening can not only make your teeth look brighter and more attractive, but it can also help to remove surface stains that can lead to cavities.

In addition, cosmetic dentistry can help to correct alignment issues that can cause problems with chewing and speaking. As a result, cosmetic dentistry can not only improve the way you look, but it can also improve the function of your mouth.

 

Cosmetic Dentistry is an Investment in Your Smile

According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the average cost of cosmetic dental procedures is $1,500. However, the price can vary depending on the specific procedure involved. For example, teeth whitening is often one of the most affordable options, with treatments costing as little as $100.

In contrast, procedures such as porcelain veneers can be more expensive. Ultimately, the cost of cosmetic dentistry will depend on your needs and preferences. But because cosmetic dentistry can improve oral aesthetics, health, and function, many patients consider the costs well worth it.

For some helpful cost estimates, schedule a consultation. During your consultation, our team will assess your individual needs and goals. We will examine your teeth and mouth and provide some excellent options available to you. We will also answer any questions you may have. By the end of the consultation, you should clearly understand what to expect from your procedure.

We’ll also be able to ensure you are an excellent cosmetic dentistry candidate during your consultation. First and foremost, patients should have generally healthy teeth and gums. In order to achieve the best results, it is also essential that patients have realistic expectations for what cosmetic dentistry can achieve. Patients should be committed to oral hygiene and be willing to follow their cosmetic dentist’s post-treatment care instructions. Those who meet these criteria are typically good candidates for cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding.

 

The Best Cosmetic Dentist in Thousand Oaks, TX

Achieve the look you desire while maintaining optimal oral health with cosmetic dentistry. We want you to feel confident about your smile – not just for now but for years to come.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Precious Thompson today! She’ll be happy to discuss the options available to you and help you choose the procedure that is right for you. We can’t wait to meet you and to help your smile shine with confidence!

Looking For a Dentist Near Me?

April 1, 2022 Family DentistryThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on Looking For a Dentist Near Me?

If you are looking for a dentist near me in Thousand Oaks, Texas, look no further than Thousand Oaks Dental. Our dentist, Dr. Thompson, and her team of dental experts are dedicated to helping you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile. Thousand Oaks Dental is a small, personalized practice with modern technology and treatments committed to excellence.

 

Dentist Near me Thousand Oaks Dental dentist in San Antoni Texas Dr. Thomson

Small, Personalized Dental Practice in Thousand Oaks, Texas

Dr. Thompson and her team believe in a personalized dental approach. One of the main reasons Dr. Thompson chose to become a dentist was because she could build lifelong relationships with her patients and help them improve their health. Dr. Thompson recognizes that there has been a trend in the dental industry to create mega dental clinics. There is no personalized care approach in these clinics that Dr. Thompson wanted.
Dr. Thompson gives to her community by participating in Smiles on Wheels and Give Kids a Smile Day. She is also a part of the Junior League of San Antonio and the YMCA. By Dr. Thompson’s commitment to her community and appreciation for personalized care, you know that Thousand Oaks Dental is the best-personalized dentist in Thousand Oaks, Texas.

 

We Offer Modern Technology and Treatments

At our Thousand Oaks dental practice, Dr. Thompson and her experts believe in using high-quality, modern technology and treatments. Thousand Oaks Dental uses a few technologies: digital x-rays, digital intraoral cameras, VELscope, Loupe Magnification, and Ergonomic Dental Chairs.

Digital X-Rays
Traditional x-rays are not only less accurate than digital x-rays. They also expose the patient to an unnecessary amount of radiation. Dr. Thompson uses digital x-rays in her practice to create a more precise picture of her patient’s teeth. 
Digital Intraoral Camera
Another helpful tooth for Dr. Thompson is the digital intraoral camera. With this tool, Dr. Thompson and her team can take an in-depth photo of your teeth inside your mouth. This 3D digital image is in color. With this photo, she can detect abnormalities such as dental decay.  
VELscope
Dr. Thompson uses the VELscope to find abnormalities in your gums and oral cavities, such as oral cancer. This small hand-held device is used to visualize the soft tissue in your mouth with fluorescent light. Dr. Thompson can identify oral and pre-oral cancer that cannot be seen with the naked eye with this tool. 
Loupe Magnification
To perform dental procedures with extreme precision, Dr. Thompson uses Loupe Magnification. This technology looks like small magnifying areas attached to glasses. She can easily see your teeth and gums with this tool, providing better dental care.
Ergonomic Dental Chairs
Gone are the days of uncomfortable dental chairs. With ergonomic dental chairs at Thousand Oaks Dental, you will be comfortable during your dental procedure. Additionally, we offer other services to help you feel more comfortable during your dental procedure. Our office has televisions to watch during the process, snacks and drinks at the beverage bar, blankets, towels, and free Wi-Fi access. 

 

Convenience for the Whole Family

Dr. Thompson understands that you and your family are busy. The team at Thousand Oaks Dental offers family-block scheduling and same-day treatments. If you have a dental emergency in Thousand Oaks, Texas, or a surrounding area, call our office for an emergency dental appointment. Our team is dedicated to making your dental experience convenient and comfortable.

Patients looking for a dentist near me can benefit from the dental services offered at Thousand Oaks Dental. Our dental team, including Dr. Thompson, is experienced and dedicated to the success of your dental care. For more information about Thousand Oaks Dental or to schedule an appointment, call our office.

Toothache Relief in San Antonio, TX

March 29, 2022 EmergencyErica BoothComments Off on Toothache Relief in San Antonio, TX

If you have a toothache, you may want to seek treatment as soon as possible. It could be the result of a serious dental issue. Contact Thousand Oaks Dental in San Antonio, and we’ll bring that tooth to excellent condition so that you can bring back that smile. 

 

Do I Need to Worry About a Toothache?

 

toothache relief Thousand Oaks Dental dentist in San Antonio, TXIt’s probably best to have Dr. Thompson check it out to ensure it’s not a serious condition. Toothaches sometimes go away with time, but this isn’t necessarily good. For example, if the pain goes away suddenly, it might be because the tooth root has died. But the problem may still be there and may grow. 

 

Even small dental problems can worsen and quickly become bigger ones. For example, an infection is a common toothache source. An infection could seriously damage the jawbone and spread to the rest of your body, causing serious illness. Seeking professional treatment is the safest option and the best way to ensure pain relief. 

 

How Do I Know if I Need Treatment?

 

Symptoms can include persistent, sharp, severe, or throbbing tooth, aw, or ear pain. This may make it difficult to open your mouth, speak or eat. You may experience persistent swelling or bleeding in the tooth area, gums, or pain when you apply pressure to the teeth. You may develop a fever, chills, or earache. 

 

What Causes a Toothache?

 

Some of the common toothache causes are:

 

  • Tooth decay.
  • Infection
  • Broken or cracked tooth.
  • Tooth grinding (bruxism)
  • Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)
  • Food or plaque between the teeth

 

How Can I Prevent or Relieve My Tooth Pain?

 

Practicing good dental hygiene is the best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent the diseases that cause toothache. Brush and floss every day, and maintain a proper diet that reduces tooth decay. Wear a protective mouthguard if you play sports to prevent tooth damage, and visit us at Thousand Oaks Dental about twice per year for regular checkups. We can keep an eye out for dental conditions that may be beyond your control. 

 

If you already have a toothache, the following tips may help you manage the pain until you can see Dr. Thompson for treatment:

 

  • Rinse with warm salt water to remove debris between your teeth, sanitize your mouth, and reduce inflammation. Rinse for about 30 seconds, then spit out the saltwater. Don’t swallow it. 
  • Rinse with an antiseptic mouth wash. Check with your pharmacist about any suggestions for product recommendations.
  • Take a pain reliever. Ibuprofen can be effective for toothache, as it includes a pain-reliever and anti-inflammatory. Check with your doctor before taking any medication to ensure it’s safe.
  • Apply a warm, moist compress to the cheek or face outside the affected area for about five minutes. Follow with a cold compress, also for about five minutes or until your face feels numb. Repeat as necessary until you feel relief. 
  • Keep your head elevated. You may notice that a toothache is worse at the worst possible time – at night when you’re trying to sleep. Why would this be? Because the blood flows toward your head when you lie down. When you have a toothache, this might enhance the pressure, sensitivity, and pain.
  • Floss the teeth and gums. If you have an infection, it can cause gum pain and swelling. Cleaning plaque and debris from the area with floss can help. Follow this by rinsing with warm saltwater. 

 

Thousand Oaks Dental in San Antonio Can Make Your Toothache Disappear

 

Let us take a closer look at what ails you. Let us help you prevent future toothaches and any other dental issues. Dr. Precious Thompson and her excellent staff members will focus on your comfort, satisfaction, and, most importantly, your smile.

 

Contact us today, and we’ll set an appointment for you.

ClearCorrect Aligners for Teens

November 1, 2021 ClearCorrect AlignersErica BoothComments Off on ClearCorrect Aligners for Teens

At Thousand Oaks Dental, Dr. Thompson wanted dental services available to cater to each patient’s wants and needs. To make orthodontics work less visible for teens, we offer ClearCorrect aligners as an alternative to traditional braces. This post will help you learn about ClearCorrect aligners and why they are an excellent choice for your teens that require orthodontic care. 

When selecting an orthodontic treatment for your teenager, it is essential to look at all the options. Traditional metal braces have been the most commonly used orthodontic treatment used by teens for decades. Metal braces consist of metal brackets bonded to each tooth with a metal archwire running through them. The wire is constantly tightened throughout multiple appointments, causing the teeth to move into their directed position. Although traditional braces are common, they are very noticeable and have limitations. 

 

ClearCorrect Aligners 

Straightening teeth through the use of clear, retainer-like aligners has been the chosen form of orthodontic treatment for adults for years and is becoming the go-to option for teens. 

ClearCorrect aligners consist of a series. Each series of aligners is a complete orthodontic treatment customized precisely to the movements your teen’s teeth need to make. Before designing through an impression, Dr. Thompson will examine the teeth, x-rays, and photographs of your child’s face to determine the specific course of treatment. 

Every two weeks, a new set of aligners given to your child will continue the movement of the teeth. The amount of aligners is determined by the length of the treatment plan, ranging anywhere from 10-14 months. 

 

Why Choose ClearCorrect for your Teenager 

Even though traditional braces will eventually smile at your child they desire, the treatment might be more prolonged and possibly uncomfortable. There are many benefits for choosing ClearCorrect for your child, including: 

  • With metal braces, children can become insecure about their smiles and even their overall appearance. It can draw unwanted attention that can influence your teenager’s self-confidence. 

 

  • Numerous patients have reported that ClearCorrect aligners are comfortable to wear. Because each set of aligners fits your smile, they fit perfectly. 

 

  • ClearCorrect aligners eliminate all of the restrictions that commonly come with traditional braces. Aligners are removable, so you can remove them to eat your favorite foods and then place them back in. With traditional braces, you need to avoid certain foods because of the risk of breaking a bracket, with clear aligners that aren’t an issue. 

 

  • Due to the aligners being removable, we have seen an increase in teenagers’ oral health while using ClearCorrect. Brushing and flossing can maintain the same instead of having to maneuver through brackets and wires. 

 

  • Although we love seeing our patients through ClearCorrect aligners, the number of visits to our office is limited compared to braces. We only need to see you when issuing you your next set. 

 

  • Your dentist recommends that your teen wears the clear aligners for at least 20 hours out of each day for optimal results. Wearing your aligners often allows for removal during oral health practices, eating, and even while playing sports to avoid any damage. 

 

Help your teen receive a straight and beautiful smile through the use of ClearCorrect aligners. Dr. Thompson understands developing personalized and detailed treatment plans to move your child’s teeth into exact positions. 

 

To learn more about taking advantage of ClearCorrect aligners, contact our office, Thousand Oaks Dental, located right here in San Antonio, Texas. We look forward to hearing from you and helping your teenager enhance their smile. 

Dental Crowns – What Are The Different Types?

March 2, 2021 UncategorizedThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on Dental Crowns – What Are The Different Types?

 

Dental crowns offer an excellent way to repair damaged teeth. Whether your tooth is chipped, cracked, or broken, choosing a dental crown can be a good option for those who would like to avoid more intensive treatments. Crowns come in a range of different materials and there are several different types of dental crown your dentist can provide. Let’s take a look at some of the crown options Thousand Oaks Dental offers in San Antonio, Texas.

Dental Crown Materials

The material you choose for a dental crown is very important, with each of the available options having different properties that will impact the quality of your crown. We’ve outlined some of the most popular crown materials below to get you started.

Porcelain-Veneered Zirconia

 

Porcelain-Veneered Zirconia is hardy, affordable, and looks extremely natural. This type of crown is more prone to chipping than others and may aggravate nearby teeth.

Ceramic

 

Ceramic crowns blend very well with your existing teeth, while also being very strong. Ceramic materials are sensitive to pressure and prone to chipping, and this means that they are usually only used for front teeth.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal

 

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (or PFM) crowns are great for long-term durability, providing a strong bond to teeth. PFM crowns are prone to chipping but are less likely to break away than other crowns.

Gold and Metal Alloy

 

Gold and other metal alloy crowns are the strongest around and are gentle on other teeth, but they look the least natural and can be costly. Gold crowns will look like a gold tooth.

The Different Types of Dental Crowns

 

Along with the material options you have available, there are several different types of methods used for applying a crown. You can find some examples of these below, though it is usually best to talk to your dentist to make sure that you are choosing the right crown for you.

Temporary Crowns

 

Temporary crowns are used during the period between getting your tooth measured and your new crown made. An adhesive will be used to attach the crown, making it weaker but also easier to remove once the permanent crown is ready.

One-Day Crowns

 

Some dentists have the facility to measure your mouth and create a crown inside their office. This will usually be milled from a ceramic material and can enable you to have your new crown installed on the same day as your first appointment.

Onlay Crowns

 

Onlay crowns (or ¾ crowns) are used when a patient doesn’t need a full crown. These will only cover part of the tooth, saving time and money during the treatment, while also giving you full use of the remaining tooth that you have leftover.

 

Crowns are an excellent dental treatment that can help you to regain confidence in your smile without having to go through intense procedures. Here at Thousand Oaks Dental offers in San Antonio, Texas, we’ve had the chance to help countless patients with crowns and other dental procedures. Feel free to get in touch with our friendly team today to get the advice and support you need.

MTM ® Clear Aligner VS Traditional Braces

January 23, 2021 Cosmetic DentistryThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on MTM ® Clear Aligner VS Traditional Braces

Everyone wants a perfect smile with straight, white teeth, but some people might need a little extra help to reach that goal. Thankfully, it is possible to get this wish granted due to a pair of orthodontic devices called aligners. 

Aligners are not entirely different from braces; while they perform practically the same job, they vary in design. Braces are connected by wires that enable the teeth to move. Aligners, on the other hand, are invisible, fitted mouthpieces that slip on the teeth. 

If you are reading this article, the chances are the time has come for you to work on your teeth. But which mouthpiece would you use? A clear aligner like the MTM ® Clear Aligner or traditional braces? Your dentist will help you decide which option works better for you. Nonetheless, it helps to do a little research as well. 

 

About MTM ® Clear Aligner

The MTM ® Clear Aligner focuses on patients who wish to realign their eight front teeth. MTM, which means Minor Tooth Movement uses a set of customized trays to readjust the positioning of the tooth. It is also used to improve teeth conditions such as overcrowding, overbite, and crossbite. 

You will need to consult with a dentist to determine if you are the right candidate for the MTM ® Clear Aligner system. Once it has been confirmed, you will then have a mould of your teeth to create the custom trays. These typically take 3-4 weeks to be completed. When you start to wear the aligner, ensure that you do so for at least 20-22 hours per day for the best results. Until you are done with treatment, you will have to replace your trays every two weeks.

 

Pros and Cons of The MTM ® Clear Aligner

Here are some pros and cons of the MTM system:

Pros:

  • Easily removable
  • Transparent
  • No need for any food restrictions
  • Treatment can be quick depending on your condition

Cons:

  • Focuses on only the front eight teeth
  • Some patients have issues with biting
  • Aligners could easily get misplaced

 

About Traditional Braces

Traditional braces correct crooked or overcrowded teeth, as well as bite issues and jaw problems. They also help correct eating or speech issues. Modern braces are not oversized, instead, they have a sleeker and smaller look.

Various kinds of braces designs, such as ceramic braces that come invisibly colored, make it possible for them to mimic your teeth. There are also lingual braces made of metal but are placed behind your teeth instead of the front. 

Your dentist will help you determine if getting a standard pair of braces is the right option for you. They may look at your condition, as well as finding the right design that will work best. 

 

Pros and Cons of Traditional Braces

Here are some pros and cons of wearing traditional braces:

Pros:

  • Less expensive than aligners
  • The best method of straightening children’s teeth
  • Less likely to be misplaced

Cons:

  • It is too visible
  • You will have food restrictions
  • Cannot be removed at any time
  • They are harder to clean and maintain

What is your final decision after reading this piece? You must undoubtedly consider all other factors such as your lifestyle, for example. But remember to always consult your dentist before making a decision.