Treating Bad Breath in Children

A pleasing smile requires a nice smell as well as a nice appearance, and at Advantage Dentistry, we help our patients to maintain both. Children have some particular challenges with bad breath (also known as halitosis) which may require a different approach than we take with adults.

Bad breath is generally caused by bacterial growth. There are several situations in which this is more likely to happen, including the patient suffering from dry mouth and nasal drip. Dry mouth is a problem for children who mouth-breathe, as well as those who are on medications for ADHD or anxiety or simply don’t remember to drink enough water during play. While a specialist may be necessary to help with breathing problems, we can recommend ways of increasing saliva flow, including sugar-free candy.

Nasal drip is a common result of sinus infections, but it can also be caused by a foreign object stuck in the nasal passages. The creviced tissues of the tonsils are an ideal spot for bacteria to grow in and most children haven’t had them removed yet. These patients may benefit from the use of non-alcoholic mouthwash. The tongue is another environment which is ideal for bacteria, so bad breath could be due to as simple a problem as the child not knowing the importance of tongue-brushing.

Scott Seier, DDS, operates Advantage Dentistry at 2887, Elmwood Ave, Kenmore, NY, 14217. To set up an appointment, call 716-877-2275, or visit AdvantageDentistry.com and fill out a contact form.

 

Acid Reflux and Tooth Erosion

As patients age, we at Advantage Dentistry work to stay in touch with them so we can respond to their changing needs. One of the changes adults experience in their oral health is the increased risk posed by acid reflux. Dr. Seier offers many options for repairing crown damage, but we want patients to know how to prevent problems before they experience pain or wear.

A patient is said to be suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) if their stomach acid escapes into their esophagus at least twice a week. The esophagus commonly develops ulcers as a result, but it’s not just soft tissue that is harmed by stomach acid. Tooth enamel also dissolves when repeatedly exposed, and over time, people with GERD develop teeth that are sensitive, discolored, and misshapen enough to impact their bite function.

Changes in diet are usually necessary for controlling acid reflux. Fried meats, cheese, caffeine, chocolate, alcohol, and foods and drinks which are themselves highly acidic, such as garlic and tomato juice, are all contributors, but patients should avoid eating anything in large quantities immediately before lying down at night. For cases in which acid reflux has already caused enamel erosion, we have natural-colored fillings and partial crown restorations.

Scott Seier, DDS, operates Advantage Dentistry at 2887, Elmwood Ave, Kenmore, NY, 14217. To set up an appointment, call 716-877-2275, or visit AdvantageDentistry.com and fill out a contact form.

 

Mini Implants

At Advantage Dentistry we are excited to offer the latest dental products, and want patients to know that mini dental implants make treatments possible for patients who could not benefit from traditional implants. Mini dental implants are about half the diameter of a traditional dental implant. This allows them to be used in narrow spaces where regular implants were not an option. 

The small size makes it possible for them to be inserted right through the gums into the bone. No incision means no stitches, and eliminates the need for a recovery period. This means the restoration or denture can usually be placed right away or shortly after.  Mini implants can also be used to install a full upper or lower denture. Between 4 and 6 mini implants are placed along the gum line to serve as the base for securing the denture. Any of our doctors can tell you if a mini implant is a good solution for you. 

To learn more about mini implants and all the products and services we provide, visit www.advantagedentistry.com for more information.  To schedule your appointment with Advantage Dentistry in Kenmore, NY, call our office at 716-877-2275.

Makeover Your Smile With Veneers

At Advantage Dentistry, we see a lot of patients who are unhappy with the appearance of their smile.  There are many cosmetic procedures available to correct tooth alignment or color, but veneers the best way to give your natural smile an overall makeover.  Veneers are thin porcelain shells that bond directly to the surface of your teeth, and give you the opportunity to completely change the appearance of your smile and still look natural. 

Patients with cosmetic issues like staining, chipped or cracked teeth, and even crooked teeth and small gaps can achieve a dazzling smile with veneers.  Veneers can be applied in as little as two visits.  First, you and your dentist will discuss what shape and look is best for your new smile and an impression of your teeth will be taken.  This impression is sent to a dental lab where your veneers will be manufactured in order to custom-fit the final product.  Veneers can typically be fabricated within 14 days, and on your final visit the veneers are bonded to your teeth for you to wear for a lifetime.

To learn more about veneers and all the services we provide, visit www.advantagedentistry.com for more information.  To schedule your appointment with Advantage Dentistry in Kenmore, NY, call our office at 716-877-2275.