The Benefits of Laser Dental Technologies

Why lasers?

As time moves forward, dental health is improving and the inclusion of fluoride in water and toothpaste means that the general public has stronger enamel on their teeth. This is a benefit for dental health but makes diagnosing anything beneath the surface of the tooth more difficult.

Laser beams and technology allow dental professionals to “see” beneath the surface of the tooth and beneath the top layer of enamel. These readings allow your dental team to prevent and treat any “hidden” dental issues you may have, and ones that may have been unable to be detected with tools that came before laser dental technologies.

What was used before lasers?

Before lasers were available to use in general dentistry, practitioners would have to rely on the use of standard dental tools to find any issues within a patient’s teeth. This made it easier to miss a diagnosis of a cavity or decay.

While evaluating a tooth with the use of a standard tool like a pick, it would be easy to miss a very small fissure in the tooth. A pick is also unable to detect tooth decay beneath the surface, something that would be highly beneficial. Seeing these issues at the very beginning will allow your dental professional to plan accordingly and help you adjust your practices to avoid future problems.

Laser Decay Diagnosis

Just under the surface of the tooth, and that hardened enamel we mentioned, could be a cavity or tooth decay. While previously this could have been missed with the standard dental tools, a laser decay diagnosis has never been easier. The light of the laser can expand and allows your dental professional to see if there is decay beneath the surface. This diagnostic method allows us to find tooth decay even more quickly than an x-ray.

How does it work?

The process of utilizing laser dental technologies is very easy, and, as a patient, it is likely would would not even notice. The scan is completed by a wand-shaped instrument, and occurs by placing the light on each individual tooth to complete a scan. The scan then is digitally transferred to a computer screen for your dentist to evaluate. The laser decay diagnosis system provides a reading and information for the dentist, showing any structural changes or concerns about the individual tooth. From there, your dentist can recommend the best course of action for any problem (or lack thereof).

When evaluating a new dentist, be sure to ask about the types of technology within their practice. A dentist like Dr. Louis K. Cheung, DDS will be ready to show you the advancements available and how it will make your visit to the dentist all the more pleasant.

Does Alcohol Hurt Your Teeth?

While there are always new studies and articles being released with titles like “You CAN drink wine!” another study has been released that gets a little more specific. The Journal of Periodontology recently published a study about the effect that alcohol can have on gums. So the answer to the question is: indirectly, yes. Alcohol consumption can hurt your teeth.

Severe periodontal disease (periodontitis) among the test subjects in this study increased at the same rate as the subjects’ alcohol consumption frequency. That is, the more alcohol each subject drank on a regular basis, the more likely they were to have periodontitis. That’s not all—even drinkers without actual periodontitis had increased gum sensitivity compared to those who did not regularly consume alcohol.

“Although the topic of alcohol use and its effect on periodontal health requires further research, this report offers valuable insight on why we should care for our gums and teeth, especially if we might enjoy the occasional drink,”
--Joan Otomo-Corgel, DDS, MPH (President of American Academy of Periodontology)

Additionally, increased alcohol consumption showed a direct correlation with the amount of plaque in a person’s mouth. Why does this happen? Alcohol dries out your mouth, which is thought to increase the production of plaque. As you drink (and the more you drink), the production of saliva slows. The alcohol is dehydrating you, causing less saliva, more dryness, and, therefore, more plaque.

Why are we telling you this? Do know that periodontal disease is quite common, and half of Americans over thirty will get it. To help you combat it, we are not here to tell you not to drink alcohol. You can enjoy a beer or glass of wine and still have a completely healthy mouth. All you need to do is be proactive about your oral health. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing and using effective mouthwash. Most important, though, is to stay up to date on your dental cleanings.

A periodontitis diagnosis is not the end of the road. A dental practice like that of Dr. Louis K. Cheung, DDS, can help treat your periodontal disease. Treatment can often help reverse the effects of the disease, but you need to catch it in a timely manner. Without regular checkups and yearly dental cleanings, this is impossible. Call today to make an appointment to keep your mouth as healthy as possible!

Does a Dental Implant Hurt?

There are a few myths surrounding dental implants, which can cause those who need them to ignore an issue and not call your dentist. Do not let a fear of pain stop you from getting the help you need.  While the process could last for several months, your pain does not. In the end, you will have a dental implant that will improve your dental health and your live will be better for it.

Once you know you will have dental implant surgery, sit down with your dentist and ask any questions you have.  In many cases you will have the actual implant placed by a local oral surgeon, and your dentist will coordinate your care, and fit your new crown after your implant has healed.  Be sure to find out ahead of time what your pre- and post-surgery plans are, as well as any options you have for during the surgery. The best way to avoid pain in this situation is to be prepared. Take your dentist’s and oral surgeon’s advice—they know what they are talking about if they are experienced and trained.

Prepare for your dental implant surgery by following the directions given to you by your dentist. These may include ways to treat your mouth before the surgery, as well as any dietary restrictions based on the type of anesthetic you have opted for (local or general). Prepare for your dental implant surgery recovery ahead of time by asking what you should have ready. This will likely include salt water and ice packs, as well as soft foods, but these may vary based on each patient.  

How can you stop your dental implant surgery from hurting during the experience itself? Firstly, be sure you have chosen an experienced and properly licensed dentist. Ask about their training and if they have performed the surgery before. You should be comfortable with your dental team and they will be able to answer any and all questions you will have about the process. If you are particularly concerned about pain or have a severe aversion to dental work, ask your dentist about what anesthetic options they have available. Depending on your level of comfort, you may prefer local or general anesthesia.  After your procedure you’ll get a prescription for pain relief to help control the discomfort you experience.

After your surgery, ensure you understand any post-surgery needs and treatment. Leave yourself plenty of time to rest and do not push against restrictions placed on your activity by your dentist. Find out what the normal symptoms are, as well as any signs you need to keep an eye out for. Be sure to have your dentist office’s phone number handy in case you notice any negative symptoms.

Every case and patient is different. If you are concerned, there is no one better to ask than a Kirkland dentist with 20 years of experience in dealing with the dental implant process about what you can expect – Dr. Louis K. Cheung.  As an experienced dental implant professional he will be able to tell you what pain (or lack thereof) could be in store. It is likely you will only experience soreness from the surgery itself, and can look forward to the painless time after surgery, with your new dental implant, and new confident smile.

Smile Transformation

Conscious about the flaws in your smile? Uneven, chipped, cracked or discolored teeth do not only look unattractive, they can also make you feel less confident about yourself. If you need an immediate smile transformation, consider investing in porcelain veneers. It is a thin layer of extremely strong porcelain that is used as substitute for your natural tooth enamel. It is typically a permanent one, so you must be certain about it.

Veneers can greatly benefit you but you need to have good periodontal and overall oral health. This is important because patients with conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, and root canal infection normally don’t qualify for veneers. You also need to have enough amount of healthy enamel because dentists usually remove a thin layer of enamel from your teeth before they place the veneers. This means that you have to replace your porcelain or choose an alternative restoration to take its place eventually.

Veneers do not change color over time, stain-resistant and can cover any imperfections on your teeth, including gaps, chips, or stains. Visit a dentistin Kirkland, WA to find out if veneers are right for you. 

Protect Your Teeth, Break the Habit

The smile is the facial expression that mostly attracts others. With the help of great teeth, it can look more attractive. The healthier your teeth are, the happier your look. Clearly, the teeth help us look our best. Good oral hygiene and avoiding bad habits that damage your teeth can help maintain its health.

You might think ice is harmless but chewing on hard, frozen cubes can cause chip or even cracks on your teeth. Mindless chomping can irritate the soft tissue inside a tooth which regular toothaches might follow. Grinding your teeth can wear them down over time. Avoiding stress and bad sleeping habits can lessen this problem. Sodas contain phosphoric and citric acids which can damage a tooth’s enamel. Opening stuff with your teeth may be convenient and fast, but this habit can cause your teeth to crack or chip. Like chewing on ice, this habit can cause teeth to chip or crack.

Take good care of your mouth and teeth, keep them healthy and beautiful by avoiding these oral health habits. Visit a dentist in Kirkland, WA today and have your pearly whites check for early prevention of oral problems. 

A Local Kirkland Dentist Can Help Your Family Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is an even bigger problem than what most would imagine. No other dental health complication has Americans pay thousands of dollars to treat for than tooth decay. The decay is caused by plaque in the teeth, which feed off on sugars left in the mouth, and release acid as a byproduct. Tooth decay leads to the development of dental caries, and in very severe cases, can lead to toothaches, periodontal diseases, and even permanent tooth loss. An article on the Dentistry IQ website posted last March 25, 2015 suggests an answer to the looming tooth decay issue. Using the framework of the IHI’s Triple Aim Initiative, a study group assessed whether the preventative care for Early Childhood Caries has any impact over costs for treatments later in the life of the patient. The study found very good results, noting that tests for early treatment for dental caries show a 10-year disease reduction and net savings from later treatments and preventative measures.
http://www.cheungdds.com/a-local-kirkland-dentist-can-help-your-family-prevent-tooth-decay/

A Dentist in Kirkland, WA Helps Your Family Maintain Healthy Teeth

Of the many dental complications that plague people today, dental cavities remain a perennial problem. Those whose diets are rich in sugar are most especially vulnerable to tooth decay and the formation of caries. Brushing and flossing can prevent tooth decay, but unless they are done as daily habits, the formation of cavities will still be a pressing concern. Unsurprisingly, children are the most vulnerable to cavities, particularly those who love candy and are not too keen with brushing. The website, PostBulletin.com, has a feature dated March 30, 2015 that discusses the importance of teaching children the values of good dental habits. The feature is a response to a reader-submitted question that inquired how cavities can be prevented in children. According to the responding author (a dentist himself), kids should brush at least twice a day using fluoride-enhanced toothpaste, and should try flossing as soon as possible.
http://www.cheungdds.com/a-dentist-in-kirkland-wa-helps-your-family-maintain-healthy-teeth/

The Dangers of Malocclusion Going Unaddressed

The Dangers of Malocclusion Going Unaddressed Crowded teeth, misaligned teeth, overbites, and under bites are just some of the alternative names for malocclusion. Ideally, all the upper teeth will fit slightly over the lower teeth for proper occlusion (alignment of the teeth) to occur. Malocclusion is often inherited, there are other causes:

 

•  
Childhood habits like thumb sucking, pacifier use beyond 3 years of age, and prolonged use of a bottle.

• Extra teeth, lost teeth, impacted teeth, or abnormally shaped teeth.

• Ill-fitting dental filling, crowns, retainers, or braces.

• Sever injury causing the misalignment or the jaw.

• Tumors in the mouth or jaw.

Different Classification and Symptoms of Malocclusion

Classifications: 

Class 1: The most common classification where the bite is normal, but the upper teeth slightly overlaps the lower teeth.

Class 2: Also called retognathism or overbite, where the upper jaw and teeth severely overlaps the lower teeth.

Class 3: Commonly referred to as prognathism or underbite, where the lower jaw juts forward, which causes the lower jaw to overlap the upper jaw and teeth.

Symptoms:

• Abnormal alignment of teeth

• Abnormal appearance of face

• Discomfort or difficulty while biting or chewing

• Although rare, speech difficulties like lisps can develop

Treatment Options

A very few number of people have perfect teeth, but most are fortunate enough to have minor problems that do not need treatment. Malocclusion on the other hand is the most common reason to call in an orthodontist. By getting moderate or severe malocclusion addressed by your dentist in Kirkland, WA the patient’s teeth are easier to clean. This lessens the risk of tooth decay and periodontal diseases. The treatment also eliminates the strain on teeth, jaws, and muscles, which will lessen the symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorders. Don’t let teeth misalignment get in the way of your health; address the situation as soon as possible.

What Your Mouth Has to Say about Your Health

Everyone has heard the saying “the eyes are the window to your soul” at least once, but how many have heard the phrase “your mouth is a mirror to your overall health”? It is an odd saying, but it is true. Our mouth is more than just for talking, smiling, and chewing our food; your oral health can actually offer clues to your overall health. Understanding the connection between the two will make you realize how crucial your oral hygiene practices can be.

Connecting Oral Health with Overall Health

The idea of oral health being tied to overall health may seem farfetched, but experts have agreed that any disease related to the mouth has an impact somewhere else in the body. Inflammation is the body’s response to an infection. With 30-50% of American adults having mild to moderate gum disease, latest research are hoping that treating inflammation caused by gum disease can improve other diseases.

 

The Different Diseases

Your oral health might be affected or can contribute to these various conditions:

• Endocarditis – Occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of the body spreads through your bloodstream and attach to the damaged areas in the heart

• Cardiovascular disease – Inflammation and infections form heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke can be caused by oral bacteria.

• Pregnancy and Birth – Peridontitis has been linked to low birth weight and sometimes premature births.

• Diabetes – The body’s resistance to infection is lowered which puts gums at risk.

 

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

These are just some of the conditions that are linked to oral health. It is important to tell your dentist in Kirkland, WA if there are any changes in your overall health, new medications, or if you have any chronic conditions like diabetes. Regular brushing and flossing will help deter gum disease, if you are still concerned about your overall health, visit your dentist in Kirkland, WA to see if he can help with the diagnosis.

The Naked Truth: A Visit to a Kirkland Dentist Isn’t All About Smiles

For the most part, people visit a trusty Kirkland dentist like Dr. Louis K. Cheung, DDS to get beautiful, healthy teeth—a set worthy of a thousand pictures. As it turns out, however, dental visits aren’t all about appearance. According to Dr. Richard Price, spokesperson for the American Dental Association (ADA), an unhealthy mouth literally equates to an unhealthy physique. He made these claims in light of various studies, which have identified links between oral health and nefarious diseases like oral cancer as well as heart disease, bacterial pneumonia, stroke, and even problematic pregnancies.
http://www.cheungdds.com/naked-truth-visit-kirkland-dentist-isnt-smiles/y

Discolored Teeth: A Common Issue Treated By a Kirkland, WA Dentist

In a society that considers white teeth a definite criteria for looking good, having yellow teeth is a curse—one that can only be lifted with the help of a trusted dentist in Kirkland, WA and elsewhere. There are two major causes for teeth discoloration: foods and drinks that stain, and the acids in certain ones that eat away at the teeth’s enamel coating. Tooth enamel is naturally white at its thickest point, but once it wears down, teeth get yellower/darker since the innermost layer of dentin is exposed. This dentin layer of the teeth is naturally yellowish in color, so the thinner your enamel gets, the yellower your teeth will look.
http://www.cheungdds.com/discolored-teeth-common-issue-treated-kirkland-wa-dentist/

What are the Most Common Toothbrushing Mistakes?

For most of us, brushing our teeth is second nature and we barely have to think about it. After all, we’ve been doing it since we could hold a toothbrush, and even enjoy the toothpaste that’s especially made for kids. Before you go back to your regular brushing routine, here are some common mistakes you have to look out for:

 

• Choose the right tool. Are you using the right toothbrush? Check if the bristles hurt or cause your gums to bleed. If it does, it’s time to change your toothbrush. If you’re not sure about the type of toothbrush (manual or electric) or the kind of bristle, ask the help of your dentist in Kirkland, WA.

• Don’t overdo it. If you brush more than 3 times a day, there is a chance that you are wearing down the tooth enamel and damaging your gums.

• Control your sour cravings. Energy drinks, diet sodas, and sour candies are notorious for softening the tooth enamel. Enjoy a treat once in a while, but wait at least half an hour before brushing your teeth.

• Let it dry. Stop putting a cover on your brush. When you put a cap on it, the moisture becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Let it air dry before keeping it in a sanitary location (avoid skin and toilets).

• Let it go. Change your toothbrush regularly. If you’re not sure about the brand to buy your dentist in Kirkland, WA will be happy to help you decide.

 

Start Brushing Your Teeth the Right Way

Simply brushing your teeth twice a day won’t do. Applying the appropriate techniques and correcting the common mistakes in brushing will keep your smile healthy and your dentist in Kirkland, WA happy.

The Best Dental Care Habits

Visits to the dentist should be done regularly, but that doesn’t mean your job stops there. Remember that your dentist is just your partner in oral hygiene; most of the work should actually be done by you, at home. Adapting good dental habits while at home will not only keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright, but it will also make your dentist proud and happy.

Dental Health at Home

Although it is recommended that everyone should brush their teeth twice a day, there are other practices that you should add to your daily brushing. Here are the top three best oral hygiene techniques that you can start doing today:

#1 – Don’t rush when brushing. Spend at least three minutes, twice a day for brushing your teeth. If you’re not up for counting the minutes, set a timer to ensure that you spend enough time cleaning your pearly whites.

#2 – Floss at least once a day, every day to clean in between your teeth. This helps get rid of food stuck in your teeth, which is the main cause of cavities.

#3 – Only use ADA-approved dental cleaning tools and toothpaste. They may be a bit more expensive than non-branded products, but it’s an investment worth making.

The main goal of proper oral care at home is to help prevent the buildup of plaque in and around your gums. As a result of following a routine, you can also fight bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. This is most important for adults because neglecting their oral hygiene can lead to various types of gum infections. So, get a head start on your oral hygiene and impress your dentist in Kirkland, WA on your next visit!

Keep your Kids’ Teeth Healthy

The second most prevalent human disease today is tooth decay. Over 25% of children ages 2-5 and over half of those who are 12-15 years old are affected by this condition. Without early detection, it can lead to pain, tooth loss, and more serious illnesses that involve other parts of the body. Protect your children from tooth decay and other dental problems through proper dental hygiene. Dr. Cheung and the rest of the team are here to help you in this particular parental responsibility.

Dental Care for Children

Caring for a child’s teeth is almost similar to that of an adult’s. It only becomes a harder task because children don’t recognize its importance. Setting an example to your kids is the best way to emphasize dental hygiene.

Let’s not forget the basics. Brushing the teeth at least twice a day, especially before bed time is the most essential task to teach the children. Perhaps, getting them an electric toothbrush helps in building them up for this task. When permanent teeth begin to grow, it is time to teach them how to floss every night before they climb up to bed. Another important aspect of dental care is dental visits at least every 6 months. As your children grow, they might need braces or extractions to prevent long term dental problems. 

 

A practical way of fighting tooth decay in children is through the application of dental sealants. This is very helpful, especially in children who are susceptible to tooth decay because it is painless and resistant to bacterial damage.

Training your children to care for their teeth at an early age is a lesson that they will appreciate when they come of age. Having healthy teeth is a great investment. Make us your partners in your child’s dental care.

Your Teeth and Health—Kirkland Dentists Can Spot Other Health Problems

Diabetes is one of the usual diseases with effects that can be seen in your mouth. Type 1 and 2 diabetes both decrease the gums’ ability to protect itself from bacterial infection. This disease can cause diabetics to be more susceptible to abscesses, an infection on the root of a tooth or between the gums. They can also suffer from openings on the tooth enamel that allow bacteria to infect the pulp or the center of the tooth. Dentists can easily determine whether a person has diabetes through their tooth, especially if the symptoms repeatedly show, because abscesses frequently happen to those who have a hard time maintaining their blood sugar. Meanwhile, your mouth can also show signs of psychological conditions, from simple ones like anxiety to chronic ones like dementia. A dry mouth sometimes connotes that a patient is under medication, particularly on antidepressants like Prozac and Zoloft, which can be the cause of tooth decay.
http://www.cheungdds.com/teeth-health-kirkland-dentists-can-spot-health-problems/

Your Oral Health: How Often Should You See A Dentist in Kirkland, WA?

Dental experts say that if your teeth require more attention, you may have to visit your dentist in Kirkland, WA more than twice each year. According to Edmond R. Hewlett, a professor on dentistry from the University of California, the biannual dental visit was recommended with the average patient in mind, such as those who regularly brush and floss their teeth and eat healthy food. Visiting the dentist three or four times a year is recommended for those whose diet is rich in sugar and are older or have dry mouth, since these could increase the risk of dental problems that can cause damage to teeth, gums, and even the bones. When left unchecked or uncleansed, the bacteria in your teeth can cause the formation of tartar, which then builds up and inflames the gums and, eventually, results in gradual and irreversible degradation and loss of the bones around your teeth.
http://www.cheungdds.com/oral-health-often-see-dentist-kirkland-wa/

High Technology Dentistry: Laser Decay Diagnosis

We are all inclined and enthused to anything new, let alone higher and newer technology. It gives us the impression that a procedure or a treatment has become better and more improved. The most advanced dental equipment is now available at Kirkland, WA.

Laser Decay Diagnosis

A simple handheld device can now detect impending tooth decay. Conventional methods of tooth decay diagnosis are limiting, and more often than not, they can only expose the condition when it’s already recognizable by the naked eye. Laser Decay Diagnosis delivers more accurate and efficient results for a better and effective treatment.

Laser Decay Diagnosis scans and examines your teeth structure in detail through fluorescence. Teeth that display the higher level of fluorescence mean that there is presence of decay. After the scan, the fluorescence readings will be converted to a digital numeric output that will be emitted as an audio signal.

This diagnostic test will further improve early detection of cavity, significantly reduce the number of fillings that you need, and relieve you from multiple tests and unnecessary teeth exploration. The best benefit of this procedure is probably lower costs of dental treatments.

Dr. Louis Cheung, a Kirkland WA dentist, offers you this technology to save you from hassle and to give you the maximum protection and best possible care for your teeth. Laser Decay Diagnosis means earlier detection, stronger teeth, more financial savings, and less dental appointments. Laser Decay Diagnosis is only one of the many new high-tech procedures that Dr. Cheung offers. Visit our website or call us for more information on these new and advanced dental procedures.

A Cosmetic Dentist in Kirkland Makes Celebrity-grade Smiles Possible

Even residents of Kirkland, WA, will understand the importance of their teeth needing to be as perfect as possible. The Little City That Could already boasts a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to make new friends– but an odd set of teeth can be a deal-breaker in that aspect. When you don’t want that to happen but can’t find a way to solve the problem, a skilled Kirkland dentist like Dr. Louis K Cheung, DDS, will help you. Evaluations of the existing teeth set are needed to better gauge the expected shape of the veneer or how to adjust the teeth to accept the veneer. Analysis of Jewel’s teeth indicated that her main incisors on the upper set were level, but her right maxillary cuspid (the tooth located two teeth to the right of the right main tooth) jutted a bit forward, earning it the label “snaggle tooth.” The two teeth adjacent to her left main incisor were also off-adjustment.
http://www.cheungdds.com/cosmetic-dentist-kirkland-makes-celebrity-grade-smiles-possible/

Dentist in Kirkland, WA will Help You Improve your Teeth and Heart

Some studies already tag heart disease as one of the leading causes of fatalities in Washington state as well in the entire country. Gum disease also has the same degree of national notoriety in terms of tooth loss. When you worry that a bout of gum disease will be a harbinger of more serious health conditions down the line, it’s time to stop that danger through a dentist from Kirkland, WA such as Dr. Louis K. Cheung, DDS. The main problem and precursor of periodontal disease is the presence of oral bacteria from various sources such as plaque. Sabir cited a number of studies which revealed that the bacteria triggers inflammation in the arteries, resulting in the generation of substances that gradually accumulate in the artery wall and the bloodstream. The affected bloodstream may lead to fatal heart infections later on if not stopped before reaching heart valves.
http://www.cheungdds.com/dentist-kirkland-wa-will-help-improve-teeth-heart/