A woman sitting up in bed holding her cheek in pain

Millions of people suffer from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, which cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty with daily activities such as chewing, speaking, and sleeping. The TMJ joins the jawbone and skull, allowing the mouth to move. Issues with this joint can have a significant impact on dental health, affecting the quality of the teeth, bite, and oral hygiene.

Understanding TMJ Disorders

The term “TMJ disorders” describes a collection of illnesses that make the jaw joint and the muscles that regulate jaw movement painful and dysfunctional. Jaw pain, popping or clicking noises, trouble opening and shutting the mouth, and headaches are some of the symptoms. Genetics, arthritis, jaw trauma, bruxism, and misaligned bites are some of the factors that can lead to TMJ disorders. Prolonged stress can also make these symptoms worse by causing jaw clenching and muscular tightness, which can put additional strain on the TMJ.

Impact of TMJ Disorders on Dental Health

TMJ issues can have a significant impact on oral health. One of the most prevalent outcomes is tooth wear caused by bruxism, which is frequently associated with TMJ issues. Excessive grinding and clenching can erode dental enamel, resulting in sensitivity, fractures, and even tooth loss over time. Furthermore, misaligned bites caused by TMJ issues can put uneven pressure on specific teeth, causing early wear, gum recession, and difficulties maintaining adequate dental hygiene.
In more extreme cases, TMJ abnormalities can cause jaw alignment issues, resulting in an unbalanced bite. This imbalance might lead some teeth to carry greater force than others, leaving them vulnerable to breakage and misalignment. As a result, additional dental procedures such as braces, crowns, or even reconstructive surgery may be required to restore balance and prevent future issues.

Diagnosis of TMJ Disorders

For TMJ issues to be effectively managed, an accurate diagnosis is essential. TMJ disorders are usually diagnosed by dentists and other medical professionals using a combination of physical examinations, patient histories, and imaging studies such as CT, MRI, or X-rays. During a physical examination, Dr. Borham will measure the jaw’s range of motion and listen for any popping, clicking, or soreness in the jaw joint.

Advanced imaging aids in detecting problems with the surrounding muscles or joint structure in more chronic instances. Early diagnosis minimizes the long-term effects on dental health and general well-being by enabling the creation of a customized treatment strategy.

Relief and Treatment Options

Medical interventions, dental procedures, and lifestyle modifications are all part of the management of TMJ disorders. Simple changes like eating softer foods, using ice or heat packs, and doing jaw exercises can frequently provide initial relief. Relaxation exercises and meditation are two stress-reduction strategies that can assist in lessening clenching and tension in the jaw.
Custom mouthguards or splints can be useful in protecting teeth and easing jaw strain in situations where clenching and grinding are major contributing factors to the disorder. Orthodontic treatment may be required to straighten the bite and decrease joint pressure in cases where misalignment is a contributing issue.

Medical treatments including muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory drugs, or even corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce pain and inflammation in more severe or long-lasting cases. Usually saved for situations in which no other treatment has worked, surgical procedures are seen as a last option.

Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

A woman smiling while putting toothpaste on a toothbrush

Dental restorations, such as bridges, implants, crowns, or fillings, are essential to preserving your smile’s beauty and functionality. To guarantee that these restorations remain as long as possible, you must take the same care as you would with your natural teeth. You can preserve your investment and have a confident, healthy smile for many years to come with the correct care.

Here are some vital pointers to assist you properly take care of your dental restorations.

  1. Maintain a Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine

The key to maintaining dental restorations is an extensive and regular oral hygiene regimen. Using fluoride toothpaste and a toothbrush with soft bristles, brush your teeth at least twice a day. It is important to keep your teeth clean on all surfaces, even the ones around your restorations, as plaque can still accumulate there and lead to decay or gum disease. Remember to floss every day. Food particles can occasionally become trapped in dental restorations; thus, flossing keeps the area clean and reduces gum inflammation.

  1. Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects

Although dental restorations are made to resist typical biting forces, they are not unbreakable. Avoid chewing on hard items like pen caps, hard candies, or ice to prevent chipping or cracking. These behaviors may erode your restorations, resulting in cracks or other damage that may need pricey replacements or repairs. Try not to open things with your teeth either, as this can damage your dental work.

  1. Address Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Your dental restorations may sustain significant damage over time if you grind your teeth, a condition known as bruxism. Grinding puts too much pressure on dental restorations and natural teeth, which can cause wear, fractures, and loosening of fillings or crowns. See your dentist, Dr. Borham, about using a nightguard to save your teeth. By putting a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, this specially made appliance reduces the effects of grinding and shields your restorations from damage while you sleep.

  1. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Regular dental examinations are crucial for keeping an eye on the state of your restorations and identifying any problems early. Dr. Borham will inspect your restorations for signs of wear, damage, or decay, and might offer treatments or changes if necessary. In addition to lowering the risk of gum disease and decay, professional cleanings every six months help eliminate tartar and plaque buildup that can collect around your restorations. Maintaining the lifespan of your restorations and your general oral health depends on routine dental appointments.

  1. Watch What You Eat and Drink

Dental restorations may get discolored or damaged by specific meals and drinks. Drinking too many dark-colored drinks, such as tea and coffee, will eventually discolor your restorations. Citrus fruits and soda are examples of acidic meals and beverages that can erode the bonding materials in crowns and fillings, increasing their susceptibility to injury. Maintaining the strength of your teeth and restorations as well as your overall health can be achieved by eating a well-balanced diet high in vitamins and minerals.

Conscious habits, routine dental checkups, and proper oral hygiene are all necessary for maintaining your dental restorations. You may prolong the life of your restorations and have a bright, healthy smile for many years to come by using these suggestions.

Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

Saliva, which is sometimes disregarded in conversations about dental health, is essential for preserving the structure and well-being of our teeth and gums. This seemingly straightforward fluid aids in digestion and prevents disease, making it a sophisticated and crucial part of dental hygiene.

Here is how saliva keeps your smile safe and why it is so important for dental health in general.

  1. Natural Defense Against Tooth Decay

The mouth’s first line of defense against tooth decay is saliva. It has vital minerals including fluoride, phosphate, and calcium that aid in the remineralization of dental enamel. In order to treat dental decay in its early stages before it becomes a cavity, remineralization is essential. Insufficient saliva would make teeth much more susceptible to bacterial acid production, which would hasten decay and cause dental issues.

  1. Lubrication and Protection

Saliva serves as a barrier to protect the oral tissues by keeping the mouth wet, which is one of its main purposes. This lubricant keeps the soft tissues from drying up and cracking, which can cause discomfort, infections, and sores. Saliva also plays a vital function in preserving dental comfort and health by creating a thin coating that protects teeth from dangerous substances including food particles, bacteria, and acids.

  1. Aiding in Digestion

Food particles are broken down by saliva even before they reach the stomach, which starts the digestive process. It has enzymes that initiate the breakdown of carbohydrates, like amylase. This helps with digestion and prevents food particles from staying in the mouth too long, which can lead to the development of plaque and tooth damage.

  1. Antibacterial Properties

Lactoferrin, peroxidase, and lysozymes are just a few of the antibacterial substances found in saliva that work to reduce the number of germs in the mouth. These substances function by preventing the formation of pathogenic bacteria that lead to oral health conditions such periodontitis, gingivitis, and foul breath. Saliva contributes to the maintenance of a healthy balance in the oral microbiome, which is essential for avoiding infections and preserving fresh breath, by regulating the bacterial load.

  1. Healing and Tissue Repair

Growth factors found in saliva aid in the restoration of the mouth’s soft tissues. For people with ailments like oral ulcers, cuts, or burns, this is especially crucial. Saliva contains proteins that help regenerate and repair oral tissues, hastening the healing process and lessening discomfort.

Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

A woman sitting up in bed holding her cheek in pain

Tooth extraction is a frequent dental treatment in which the tooth is taken out of its bone socket. Even though it could seem overwhelming, being prepared and knowing how to take care of yourself after extraction will help guarantee a quick and easy recovery. This thorough guide will assist you in navigating the procedure.

Why You Might Need a Tooth Extraction

Tooth extractions are performed for various reasons, including:

  1. Severe Decay or Infection: In order to stop the infection from spreading, a tooth extraction may be required if it is too damaged to be fixed with a filling or crown.

  2. Crowded Mouth: In order to make room for orthodontic treatment, teeth may occasionally need to be removed.

  3. Gum Disease: Severe periodontal disease can cause teeth to become loose, necessitating extraction.

  4. Impacted Teeth: Wisdom teeth and other teeth may require extraction if they do not have enough space to erupt normally.

Different Types of Extractions

Tooth extractions can be divided into two categories:

  1. Simple extractions: Simple extractions are carried out under local anesthetic on teeth that are visible. Using an elevator, the dentist Dr. Borham extracts the tooth and uses forceps to remove it.

  2. Surgical extraction: More intricate, frequently including teeth that are impacted, fractured, or subsurface. General anesthesia and an oral surgeon may be needed for this treatment.

What to anticipate from the process.

  1. Preparation: In order to get ready, your oral surgeon or Dr. Borham will evaluate your medical history and take X-rays. Depending on how difficult the extraction is, you may be given anesthesia to completely sedate yourself or to numb the affected area.

  2. Extraction: During a routine extraction, you will not experience pain; instead, you will feel pressure when the tooth is taken out. Before the tooth can be removed surgically, the gums may need to be cut and the surrounding bone may need to be removed.

  3. Post-Procedure: After extraction, Dr. Borham will repackage the socket with gauze to stop the bleeding and, if needed, suture the area.

Post-Extraction Care

Proper aftercare is crucial for a smooth recovery. Here are some steps to follow:

  1. Control Bleeding: To stop bleeding, gently bite onto gauze for a duration of 30-45 minutes. Use a moist tea bag or a fresh gauze pad if it persists.

  2. Control Pain and Swelling: Take over the counter or prescription painkillers as advised. To lessen swelling, apply an ice pack to your face every ten minutes.

  3. Rest: For the first 24 hours, abstain from physically demanding activities. When you are lying down, raise your head using pillows.

  4. Diet: For the first several days, limit your intake to soft meals like yogurt, pudding, and mashed potatoes. Steer clear of anything crunchy, hot, or spicy that can aggravate the extraction site.

  5. Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene but stay away from the extraction site. After the operation, rinse gently with saltwater beginning the day after. As normal, brush and floss the remaining teeth.

Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

Oropharyngeal candidiasis, another name for oral thrush, is a common oral fungal infection that is usually caused by the Candida species, most commonly Candida albicans. Although anybody can be affected, babies, elderly people, and those with compromised immune systems are the most common groups to experience this illness. In order to manage this illness and stop its recurrence, it is essential to understand its causes, symptoms, and available effective treatment choices.

Reasons behind Oral Thrush

Candida fungal overgrowth is the main cause of oral thrush. Small levels of Candida are a typical resident of the skin, digestive system, and mouth. But a number of things can upset the normal equilibrium of microbes, which can result in an overabundance of Candida. Among these are:

  1. Weakened Immune System: People who are immunosuppressively treated after receiving an organ transplant, cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, or people living with HIV/AIDS are more prone to oral thrush.

  2. Use of Antibiotics: Antibiotics have the ability to eradicate good oral bacteria that regulate the amount of Candida in the mouth, which permits the fungus to spread.

  3. Diabetes: An environment that is favorable to fungal development can be produced by high blood sugar levels.

  4. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Reduced salivary flow can cause xerostomia, or dry mouth. Because dry mouth lacks saliva’s inherent antibacterial qualities, it becomes more conducive to the growth of fungi.

  5. Dentures: If dentures are ill-fitting or improperly maintained, they may harbor Candida colonies.

  6. Smoking: Using tobacco products can make oral thrush more likely.

  7. Hormonal Changes: During pregnancy, hormonal shifts may make a person more susceptible to thrush.

Oral thrush symptoms

The severity of the infection can affect the symptoms of oral thrush. Typical indications and manifestations include of:

  1. White Lesions: On the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, tonsils, or roof of the mouth, there are creamy white, slightly elevated lesions.

  2. Redness and Soreness: The afflicted areas may become uncomfortable due to redness, inflammation, and soreness.

  3. Difficulties Swallowing: When oral thrush is severe, it can spread to the esophagus, causing discomfort and making swallowing difficult.

  4. Cracking at the Corners of the Mouth: Oral thrush may coexist with a condition called cracking around the corners of the mouth, also referred to as angular cheilitis.

  5. Taste Loss: Some people may have an unpleasant taste in their mouths or a loss of flavor.

  6. Cottony Feeling: Some people report having a cottony feeling in their mouth.

Options for a Successful Oral Thrush Treatment

Solving the underlying cause, reducing symptoms, and avoiding recurrence are all important aspects of effective oral thrush treatment. The following list of typical therapies:

  1. Antifungal Medications: Taking antifungal drugs is the main treatment for oral thrush. In more serious situations, these can be given as systemic medications like fluconazole or itraconazole or as topical medications like nystatin suspension or clotrimazole lozenges.

  2. Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene It’s essential to keep up good dental hygiene. In addition to flossing every day and using an antiseptic mouthwash if prescribed by a healthcare professional, this involves brushing teeth at least twice a day.

  3. Addressing Underlying Conditions: Reducing the likelihood of thrush can be achieved by controlling comorbidities like diabetes or modifying prescriptions that cause dry mouth.

  4. Dietary Adjustments: Cutting back on sugar consumption can help stop Candida from growing. A balanced population of oral microbes can also be supported by probiotic-rich diets and supplements.

  5. Denture Care: It is crucial to clean and fit dentures correctly. Dentures should be taken out at night, carefully cleaned, and, if advised, soaked in an antifungal solution.

  6. Changes to Lifestyle: Giving up smoking and consuming alcohol in moderation can lower the incidence of oral thrush.

With the right care and precautions, oral thrush is a treatable condition. People can seek prompt medical attention if they are aware of the symptoms and comprehend the underlying causes. Oral thrush can be effectively managed and prevented, resulting in optimal oral health and comfort, by following recommended antifungal medicines, practicing proper oral hygiene, and addressing contributory factors. Seeking additional examination and treatment from a healthcare provider is crucial if symptoms intensify or continue.

Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

 

A patient in a dental chair smiling with dental assistant next to him

Since others frequently notice your smile first, getting the ideal smile has become important to many in today’s image-conscious world. Dental bonding and veneers are two of the most common ways that cosmetic dentistry can improve the look of your teeth. Both treatments can correct common dental flaws, however they are not the same in terms of cost, durability, or method. Knowing the distinctions between veneers and dental bonding will enable you to choose the option that will improve your smile the most.

What is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is a cosmetic dentistry technique where a tooth-colored resin material is applied to the tooth’s surface to improve its appearance. It is an adaptable procedure that can address a variety of cosmetic problems, like discoloration, gaps between teeth, and chipped or broken teeth. The process can frequently be finished in just one visit to see Dr. Borham and usually involves very little preparation of the tooth surface.

Dr. Borham will carefully apply the resin material to the tooth throughout the bonding process, molding and sculpting it to get the desired outcome. After the resin is positioned, it is hardened with a specialized light to fuse it to the tooth. In order to create a surface that looks natural, the bonded material is then polished to match the sheen of the neighboring teeth.

Benefits of Dental Bonding:

  1. Affordability: Dental bonding is sometimes a more affordable alternative for patients on a tight budget than veneers.

  2. Conservative: Compared to veneers, dental bonding requires less tooth preparation, requiring the removal of less natural tooth structure.

  3. Versatility: Dental bonding offers a flexible approach for enhancing smiles by addressing a broad range of cosmetic concerns, from small chips to gaps between teeth.

What are Veneers?

Veneers are thin shells that are custom-made to fit over the front surface of teeth, usually made of composite resin or porcelain. They can significantly enhance the attractiveness of your smile because they are made to resemble real teeth. Teeth that are damaged, discolored, crooked, or have an uneven shape are frequently covered with veneers.

The process of getting veneers typically involves two or more visits to Dr. Borham. During the initial consultation, Dr. Borham will assess your smile and discuss your goals for treatment. Then, a small amount of enamel may be removed from the front surface of the teeth to accommodate the thickness of the veneers. Impressions of your teeth are taken and sent to a dental laboratory, where the veneers are custom-made to fit your teeth precisely. Once the veneers are ready, they are bonded to the teeth using a strong adhesive, resulting in a durable and long-lasting restoration.

Benefits of Veneers:

  1. Natural Appearance: Veneers offer a natural-looking appearance since they may be color-matched to blend in perfectly with the rest of your smile.

  2. Durability: Porcelain veneers are a long-lasting option for smile improvement because of their remarkable stain resistance and durability.

  3. Versatility: Veneers can be used to treat a variety of aesthetic issues, such as discoloration, misalignment, and inconsistencies in the size and shape of teeth.

The best method to decide which course of action is ideal for you is to speak with a licensed cosmetic dentist. In order to create a customized treatment plan that satisfies your needs and falls within your budget, your dentist will assess your dental health and talk with you about your treatment objectives.

Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

Orthodontic treatment is a transformative journey that frequently ends with the removal of braces or aligners, exposing a perfectly aligned smile. However, preserving that perfect smile necessitates a dedication to post-treatment maintenance, and orthodontic retainers play an important part in guaranteeing the lifetime of your results.

In this article, we will explore five essential tips for effectively maintaining your perfect smile after orthodontic treatment.

  1. Consistent Wear

Consistent retainer wear is essential for sustaining your orthodontic results. Initially, your orthodontist will propose a certain plan, which may include wearing the retainer full-time before progressively shifting to nocturnal use. It is critical to stick to this schedule precisely. Skipping days or failing to wear your retainer as directed can result in unwanted tooth movement, potentially erasing the progress accomplished throughout your orthodontic treatment.

  1. Proper Cleaning

Maintaining the cleanliness of your retainer is crucial for maintaining dental hygiene and extending its lifespan. It is advised to clean detachable retainers once a day with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or denture cleanser. Steers clear of hot water since it could distort the retainer. Thorough oral hygiene procedures, including using threaders or interdental brushes to floss, are essential for fixed retainers in order to avoid plaque accumulation around the wires.

  1. Safe Storage

Removable retainers must be kept in their original case when not in use. They may get damaged or lost if you put them in your pockets or leave them out in the open. Furthermore, keep retainers out of pets’ reach because their curiosity could cause unintentional changes or damage to the appliance.

  1. Regular Check-ups

It is essential to make routine follow-up consultations with your orthodontist in order to evaluate the state of your retainers and track the stability of your orthodontic outcomes. Orthodontists are able to spot any possible problems with the retainer, like cracks, breaks, or wear indicators, and they may offer prompt advice to fix these problems before they affect the retainer’s efficacy.

  1. Timely Replacements

Retainers are subject to wear and tear over time, which could reduce their efficiency. It is crucial to heed your orthodontist’s advice when it comes to replacing your retainers. Getting a new retainer, when necessary, will guarantee that your teeth stay in their ideal position, regardless of whether it is because of regular wear or changes in your dental structure.

Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

A woman smiling while putting toothpaste on a toothbrush

Tongue cleaning is commonly disregarded, despite the fact that brushing and flossing are the two most important oral hygiene practices for general health. Bacteria thrive on the tongue, which can lead to a number of problems with dental health. Including tongue cleaning in your regular dental hygiene regimen might have a number of advantages, from enhancing breath freshness to averting more severe dental issues.

  1. Eliminating Bad Breath

Reducing halitosis, or bad breath, is one of the main advantages of tongue cleaning. The surface of the tongue is coated in microscopic papillae that allow food particles, germs, and dead cells to collect. These substances have the potential to produce odorous molecules that aggravate bad breath. Regular tongue cleaning helps remove these deposits, leaving your mouth feeling fresher and your breath more pleasant.

  1. Preventing Oral Infections

Periodontal disease and thrush are only two of the oral illnesses and problems that can be brought on by bacteria on the tongue. You may drastically lower your risk of developing these diseases by washing your tongue to get rid of the bacterial buildup. It’s crucial to keep your tongue clean, especially if you have weakened immune systems or are prone to oral infections.

  1. Enhancing Taste Perception

An enhanced sense of taste is correlated with a clean tongue. Bacteria and debris accumulation can alter the taste buds on the surface of the tongue, reducing the sense of flavor. By keeping your taste buds clear, regular tongue washing enables you to completely appreciate the variety of flavors found in your food and drink.

  1. Improving Overall Oral Hygiene

Regular tongue cleaning completes a thorough oral hygiene regimen that also includes brushing and flossing. Combined with these procedures, tongue washing helps eliminate bacteria from the surfaces of the mouth, lowering the risk of gum disease, cavities, and other dental problems. Preventing long-term issues and preserving dental health require a comprehensive approach to oral care.

  1. Supporting Digestive Health

Unbelievably, there is a connection between your digestive system and tongue health. It is possible for bacteria on the tongue to be swallowed and have an impact on digestion. Maintaining a clean tongue lowers the chance of consuming dangerous microorganisms and improves digestive health.

A quick and easy method to improve your oral health is to include tongue washing in your daily regimen. The advantages of tongue cleansing go beyond fresh breath and include preventing bad breath, lowering the risk of dental infections, and promoting improved digestion. To have a healthier mouth and a more self-assured grin, incorporate tongue cleaning into your daily oral hygiene routine. Give your tongue the care it requires for a healthier, more radiant smile in the future. It deserves it.

Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

An older couple smiling and riding bikes

The importance of maintaining good dental health for general wellbeing increases with age. Given the connections between oral health and a number of systemic diseases, dental care for seniors is essential to good ageing.

There are a number of important factors to take into account in order to guarantee that seniors may maintain a bright, healthy smile well into their golden years, from preventing dental decay to handling the problems of ageing.

  1. Regular Dental Checkups

The cornerstone of excellent oral health is routine dental examinations, particularly for seniors. Dentists are skilled at early problem detection and preventive care. It is advised that elders get regular cleanings and examinations at their dentist at least twice a year. Concerns like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer can be addressed during these appointments.

  1. Maintaining Oral Hygiene

Although good dental hygiene is important for everyone, seniors require it even more. Tooth decay and gum disease can be avoided by brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, using a toothbrush with soft bristles, and flossing every day. Adaptive dental care products can help seniors with arthritis or other mobility issues handle dental care more easily.

  1. Denture Care

It is important to give elders who wear dentures sufficient care. The gums can rest when dentures are taken out at night and cleaned every day. Denture fit can be improved with routine dental exams, which lowers the possibility of irritation or infection. Seniors should get expert help as soon as possible if their dentures have any problems, including cracks or an uncomfortable fit.

  1. Managing Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a common ailment among seniors that can be brought on by certain drugs or illnesses. Saliva is essential for neutralizing acids and assisting in the prevention of tooth decay. To alleviate dry mouth, try consuming lots of water, sugar-free gum, or lozenges, and abstaining from alcohol and smoke. Seeking advice from Dr. Borham is crucial if the issue continues.

  1. Nutrition and Hydration

For optimal dental health, a well-balanced diet high in vitamins and minerals is recommended. Seniors who want healthy teeth and bones should concentrate on eating foods high in calcium. Furthermore, maintaining hydration lowers the chance of developing dry mouth by maintaining salivary flow. Reducing sugar-filled snacks and drinks is essential for avoiding dental caries.

  1. Specialized Dental Care

Certain age-related diseases, such dementia or arthritis, could call for dental treatment. In order to guarantee that suitable accommodation may be made during dental visits, seniors and their carers should inform the dental professionals of any difficulties. Dr. Borham, with geriatric care expertise, can offer specialized treatments to address the particular requirements of senior citizens.

  1. Stay Informed about Medications

Oral health may be impacted by a number of drugs that are frequently recommended to seniors. While certain drugs may influence gum health, others may result in dry mouth. In order to address any potential oral health concerns, seniors should discuss their prescription regimen with both Dr. Borham and the healthcare provider.

Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

TMJ Treatment

Dental emergencies can occur at any time and, more often than not, when you least expect them. Knowing how to respond to a sudden toothache, a broken tooth, or an accident to the mouth can make a huge difference in keeping your dental health and minimizing pain and discomfort.

Common Dental Emergencies: Toothache, Chipped or Broken Tooth, Knocked-Out Tooth, Lost or Loose Dental Crown, and Severe Bleeding or Soft Tissue Injury.

In this article, we will look at frequent dental emergencies and offer advice on what to do should they occur.

What to Do If You Have a Dental Emergency:

  1. Toothache:

Warm water should be used to rinse your mouth.

Remove any dirt lodged between your teeth with dental floss.

Over-the-counter pain medications can help relieve discomfort momentarily.

Make an appointment with your dentist Dr. Borham as soon as possible.

  1. Broken or chipped tooth:

Any shattered pieces should be saved.

Warm water should be used to rinse your mouth and the damaged tooth.

If there is bleeding, apply mild pressure with gauze.

See your dentist Dr. Borham right away since a chipped or fractured tooth necessitates professional care.

  1. Tooth that has been knocked out:

Handle the tooth by the crown (upper portion) rather than the root.

If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it but do not scrub it.

If feasible, try to replace the tooth in its socket.

If re-implantation is not an option, place the tooth in milk or a tooth preservation kit and seek dental care as soon as possible.

  1. Dental Crown Loss or Looseness:

If the crown is still intact, keep it.

Temporarily fix the crown with a small amount of dental adhesive or toothpaste.

For a more permanent remedy, consult your dentist Dr. Borham.

  1. Severe bruising or soft tissue damage:

To stop the bleeding, apply mild pressure with gauze.

If the bleeding persists, seek medical or dental assistance right once.

Avoiding Dental Emergencies

While learning how to handle dental crises is critical, prevention is essential. Here are some pointers to help you avoid dental emergencies:

Maintain healthy teeth and gums by practicing good oral hygiene.

Wear mouthguards when participating in sports or activities that provide a risk of facial or dental injury.

Chewing on hard objects such as ice, popcorn kernels, or pencils is not recommended.

Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

Dr. Oushy - a Las Cruces Dentist

Meet Dr. Oushy

Dr. Oushy earned her Doctorate of dental surgery degree from University of California, San Francisco. She also holds a Master’s degree in Public health from New Mexico State University.

Dr. Oushy has a vast knowledge of oral health & preventive care. She believes that education is the key to optimal dental health. She strives to provide her patients with “dental health care” vs “disease care” and is passionate about her work and her community as a dentist in Las Cruces.

Away from work, she enjoys cooking and spending time with her husband and twin girls.

Read more Dr. Oushy Dentist Las Cruces Society Affiliations American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Internation Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology The Best Dentist and Hygienist in Las Cruces, New Mexico!

Testimonials

There is a new dentist at Mesilla Valley family dentistry and he is awesome. I have terrible anxiety around the issue of dentistry and this office is able to put me at ease. They are friendly helpful and efficient…

– Roberta S.

I’m like most people that do not like going to the dentist. This place made me feel comfortable from start to finish. What an amazing team Dr. Borhan has put together! He is a wonderful, patient, informative, non-pushy…

– Mara M.

The team at Mesilla Valley Family Dentistry are the best! I can always be assured that I will receive a high quality of care – Katie rocks as my hygienist! Any other services are always of the highest quality – believe it or not …

– Pam J.

Providing the Finest in Las Cruces Dental Care

Accepted Insurances

In-Network Dental Provider

The following are just a few of the dental insurance carriers we’re providers for. If we’re not in-network for your insurance, We can still file all of your paperwork on your behalf to help you maximize your dental benefits and minimize your out-of-pocket cost. We also offer our patients CareCredit. CareCredit lets you begin your treatment immediately, then pay for it over time with affordable monthly payments that fit easily into your monthly budget.

 

Aetna Logo   Assurant Logo    Blue Cross Blue Shield   Careington   Cigna Delta Dental   Guardian   MetLife   United Concordia    United Healthcare

At this time our office does NOT accept any HMO or DHMO plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I schedule an appointment with Dr. Borham?

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Borham, call our Las Cruces office at (575) 523-5589 or fill out our convenient online appointment form. During this visit, Dr. Borham will get to know you and answer any questions you may have about your treatment.

How often should I visit the dentist?

In order to maintain a healthy smile, it’s essential to visit the dentist at least twice a year to get your teeth cleaned and examined. Most patients schedule checkups with Dr. Borham roughly every six months. If your teeth are more prone to decay as a result of genetics or any other factor, Dr. Borham may recommend that you come in more often.

Can dental insurance pay for my treatment?

We accept most major insurance providers at our practice for your convenience. While dental insurance doesn’t offer coverage for every treatment, you can often reduce your overall treatment cost. Our team will be happy to help ensure you maximize your benefits.

What if I have dental anxiety?

For patients who suffer from dental anxiety, we offer nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation at our practice. Both of these options will help you relax and remain calm throughout your treatment without fully losing consciousness. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Borham to discuss your sedation options and find out which is best for you.