tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33043384837526104932024-02-20T08:40:40.466-08:00Theodore Filandrianos, DMDAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01636566824893170659noreply@blogger.comBlogger9125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3304338483752610493.post-80495822814602848382016-05-31T12:00:00.000-07:002016-05-31T12:00:19.050-07:00Advanced TMD Therapy with TENSFrom disrupting normal bite function to causing severe migraines, ringing in the ears, and jaw soreness, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, or TMD can be debilitating. Without proper and prompt treatment, patients can find themselves struggling to perform the most basic of oral functions.<br />
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<a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/tmj-neuromuscular-dentistry/" target="_blank">Treating TMD</a> varies from patients to patient. While some can benefit from the daily use of a splint or oral appliance, others require more extensive <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/tmj/-neuromuscular-dentistry/phase-1-2-tmj-therapy/" target="_blank">neuromuscular-orthotic therapy</a>. Within this comprehensive approach, specialized therapy known as TENS treatment helps many patients achieve best results.<br />
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<b>What is TENS Therapy?</b><br />
T<b>ranscutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation</b>, better known as TENS, is an advanced therapy for alleviating and overcoming TMJ disorders. In this neuromuscular therapy, electrical pulses transmitted through electrodes are used to stimulate controlled muscle contractions, alleviating pain points and discomfort caused by TMD.<br />
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<b>TENS and Other TMD Therapies </b><br />
At our Newton dental practice, TMD dentist <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/meet-the-doctors/dr-steve-bader/" target="_blank">Dr. Steven Bader</a> uses TENS therapy as part of a larger, multi-faceted approach to treating TMJ disorders. During TMJ Dysfunction <b>Phase 1 Therapy</b>, ultra-low frequency TENS treatment is used to measure muscle activity, jaw movements, and joint sound, providing Dr. Bader with an in-depth understanding of the cause of joint problems. Over the course of this first phase, TENs is used to for 45 minutes to an hour to help alleviate pain in the head and neck muscles and coax the bite into a more comfortable position.<br />
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Once the best neuromuscular position has been determined, an orthotic appliance is created to help physically move the bite into the correct position. When combined with continued TENS therapy, many of our Newton TMD patients are able to enjoy improved muscular relaxation as well as better bite.<br />
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During the <b>second phase of TMD therapy</b>, full-time orthotic devices are replaced with removable orthotic appliance that is worn for several months. Depending on the condition of the joint and dentition, additional long-term solutions such as continued TENS therapy, neuromuscular orthodontics, bite reconstruction, and semi-permanent orthotics may be recommended.<br />
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<b>Treating TMD in Newton </b><br />
At Ted Filandrianos, DMD, FAGD & Associates, our mission is to provide patients with the comprehensive care needed to achieve optimal oral function. With the use of TENS therapy in treating TMD and its resulting symptoms, our team is able to provide individuals with lasting solutions that target the cause of their discomfort. If you are suffering from TMD symptoms and are seeking a comprehensive solution, <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact</a> our Newton TMJ dysfunction specialist today.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01636566824893170659noreply@blogger.com01400 Centre St #101, Newton, MA 02459, USA42.3266763 -71.197312216.671604800000004 -112.6816872 67.9817478 -29.7129372tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3304338483752610493.post-77379810458722297582016-05-16T12:00:00.000-07:002016-05-16T12:00:10.206-07:00Teeth Whitening, Veneers, Same-Day Crowns<div class="MsoNormal">
Thanks to advances in dental technology, achieving a
beautiful smile through cosmetic dental procedures has never been easier.
However, with so many available treatment options, knowing which cosmetic
solution best fulfills your aesthetic goals without compromising the health and
function of your smile is important. If you are weighing your treatment
options, consider the following differences between some of the most common
cosmetic procedures.</div>
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<b>Teeth Whitening<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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For patients looking to brighten their smiles, <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/procedures/zoom/" target="_blank">professional teeth whitening</a> is an ideal option. During this procedure, bleaching gel is
applied to the dentition and activated using a specialized light. After about
an hour, patients are able to notice a striking difference in the color of
their teeth. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Unlike other cosmetic options which alter the teeth, teeth
whitening is minimally invasive, making it ideal for patients who prefer to not
make significant changes to their smile. However, for patients with deep,
intrinsic staining caused by cavities or medication, teeth whitening may not
provide sufficient coverage to transform the look of the smile. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Veneers<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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For patients with deep inner-tooth staining, as well as
those with chipped or cracked teeth, <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/procedures/cosmetic-dentistry-/composite-veneers-bonding/" target="_blank">veneers</a> offer a comprehensive way of
covering unsightly flaws, as well as creating a more uniform smile. Made of
porcelain veneers are designed to blend in naturally with the surrounding
teeth, making them virtually unnoticeable. To place the veneer, the tooth is
buffed and a small portion is removed, ensuring that the prosthetic sits flush
on the tooth. Dental cement is then used to securely attach the veneer to the
tooth. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Whereas teeth whitening may require touch-ups in the future,
veneers are a permanent, non-reversible treatment. As a result, taking good
care of the veneer is a key component to ensuring lasting results. In the event
the veneer is damaged or the tooth beneath the veneer becomes subject to cavity
or infection, patients may need to pursue more advanced restorations in order
to regain dental function and aesthetics. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Same-Day Crowns<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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In some instances, a tooth may be so severely damaged that
veneers and teeth whitening are insufficient cosmetic options. As a result,
these patients can still achieve beautiful, complete smiles with <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/procedures/restorative-dentistry/crowns-caps/" target="_blank">same-daycrowns</a>. Unlike lab manufactured crowns, which can take around two weeks to
create and place, same-day crowns are manufactured in office and placed in one
dental visit. Made of highly durable porcelain, this immediate prosthetic
alternative allows patients to improve their oral health, function, and
aesthetics in just one appointment.</div>
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Like all other crowns, same-day crowns do require that the
tooth be reshaped in order to accommodate the crown. However, the convenience
of this option makes it ideal for patients seeking a cosmetic restoration.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Learn More about
Cosmetic Dentistry Today<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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In Newton, Dr. Ted Filandrianos and his team utilize the
latest in dental technology to provide patients with the best treatment option
for improving their smile. To learn more about available cosmetic dental care
in Newton, <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact Ted Filandrianos, DMD, FAGD & Associates</a> today. <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01636566824893170659noreply@blogger.com01400 Centre St #101, Newton, MA 02459, USA42.3266763 -71.197312216.671604800000004 -112.6816872 67.9817478 -29.7129372tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3304338483752610493.post-10906842956721382392016-05-02T12:00:00.000-07:002016-05-02T12:00:13.722-07:00Treating Periodontal Disease<div class="MsoNormal">
Gum disease is one of the most common oral health issues,
affecting countless adults across the country. While this condition is easily
prevented with the adoption of an effective oral hygiene routine, it can also
progress quickly if left untreated. In severe cases of periodontal disease,
patients may find themselves facing tooth loss and jaw bone deterioration.</div>
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In addition to damaging an individual’s oral health, gum
disease can also compromise a patient’s overall health by increasing the
likelihood of other health problems such as stroke, heart disease, and
diabetes. With these consequences in mind, treating periodontal disease as soon
as possible is a critical part of restoring the health of your smile. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Types of Periodontal
Treatments<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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There are several methods of treating gum disease and
restoring the health of the dentition, each of which are recommended based on
the progression of the disease as well as the condition of the smile. Common
treatment options include:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Deep Cleaning</b>:
Also known as <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/procedures/periodontal-disease/treatment/" target="_blank">root planing and scaling</a>, this non-surgical gum treatment removes
plaque and tartar from the root surfaces and periodontal pockets. By thoroughly
removing bacteria from the root surfaces, this treatment helps to prevent
recurring infection and is often considered one of the less invasive treatment
options for periodontal disease. Antibiotics and other antimicrobial therapy
may be used to slow or kill the disease-causing bacteria. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Soft Tissue Lasers</b>:
<a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/procedures/laser-dentistry/" target="_blank">Dental lasers</a> can also be used to treat gum disease. During this treatment, bacteria
and infected tissue are removed while the periodontal pocket is sterilized. As
the laser cauterizes the gum tissue during treatment, patients are able to
enjoy accelerated recovery as well as minimal post-treatment discomfort.
Additionally, soft tissue lasers also help to stimulate gum reattachment to the
teeth, minimizing the size of the periodontal pockets. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Gum Grafting</b>: In
some instances of severe gum disease, root planning and scaling will not
sufficiently restore gum health. These advanced cases of periodontal disease
may require soft tissue grafting. During this procedure, the infected gum
tissue is removed and replaced with donor tissue from a healthier part of the
smile. In the long run, gum grafting surgery helps prevent further damage to the
smile by covering the roots and reducing bone recession caused by periodontal
disease. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Dental Implants</b>:
If left untreated, gum disease can cause bone deterioration, leading to
weakened bone structure as well as increasing the likelihood of tooth loss. In
combination with bone grafting and other bone reinforcement procedures, dental
implants can be used to stimulate healthy bone regeneration as well as replace
any missing teeth. In addition to enhancing the health of the dentition, dental
implants also restore dental function to the smile, thereby comprehensively
restoring health to the smile. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Periodontal Treatment
in Newton <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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For patients experiencing symptoms of gum disease, seeking
treatment as soon as possible is crucial to maintaining long-term oral health.
In Newton, Dr. Ted Filandrianos and his team offer a range of specialized gum
disease treatments and restorations to help patients regain their smiles. For
more information about treating and preventing periodontal disease, <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact ourNewton dentist</a> today. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01636566824893170659noreply@blogger.com01400 Centre St #101, Newton, MA 02459, USA42.3266763 -71.197312216.671604800000004 -112.6816872 67.9817478 -29.7129372tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3304338483752610493.post-83758897159992280562016-04-18T12:00:00.000-07:002016-04-18T12:00:27.488-07:00The Importance of Preventive Dentistry<div class="MsoNormal">
Protecting your oral health does much more than ensure a
beautiful smile and optimal oral function. From facilitating efficient
digestion to protecting your heart from cardiovascular disease or stroke, a
healthy mouth is necessary for good overall health. With this in mind, regular
dental visits for <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/procedures/cleanings-prevention/" target="_blank">preventive check-ups and treatments</a> is one of the most
proactive methods of protecting both oral and overall health.</div>
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<b>The Oral-Systemic
Relationship<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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In recent years, various studies have demonstrated a link
between the health of the smile and health of the body as a whole. Known as the
oral-systemic link, this relationship serves as an important indicator of the
onset of certain conditions as well as ensures proposed treatments
comprehensively address the root of the oral or overall health problem. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In particular, this link focuses on how certain health
conditions, ranging from temporomandibular joint dysfunction to diabetes can
have a negative impact on the health and function of the smile. Similarly, this
connection evaluates how poor oral hygiene can have a domino-like impact on other
parts of the body, causing and exacerbating symptoms other conditions. For
example, conditions such as <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/procedures/periodontal-disease/" target="_blank">gum disease</a> and <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/procedures/endodontics/" target="_blank">teeth abscesses</a> are fairly simple
to prevent and treat during the early stages through aggressive oral hygiene
and minimal restorative treatment. However, neglecting either condition can
open the door to more serious problems, potentially compromising the health of
vital organs. <o:p></o:p></div>
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When it comes to maintaining a positive relationship between
the health of the mouth and rest of the body, preventive dental care remains
one of the most effective ways of protecting an individuals’ long-term
wellbeing. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>What is Preventive
Dentistry?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Maintaining a healthy smile begins with implementing an
effective oral hygiene and preventive care plan. In addition to consistently
practicing an effective at-home oral hygiene routine, regular professional
cleanings and check-ups are an essential part of preventive dentistry. <o:p></o:p></div>
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These biannual appointments provide the dentist with the
opportunity to remove tartar build-up, monitor changes in the smile, and make
important treatment recommendations to protect the patient’s long-term oral
health. As certain health conditions yield oral symptoms, regular visits and
frequent monitoring also provide dentists the opportunity to comprehensively
evaluate patients’ smiles for indicators of underlying conditions which may
otherwise go unnoticed. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Preventive Dental
Care in Newton<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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The first step to maintaining a beautiful smile and lasting
overall health begins with regular check-ups and cleanings. At our
<a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/" target="_blank">state-of-the-art dental practice</a> in Newton, Dr. Ted Filandrianos and his team
utilize advanced diagnostic instruments to comprehensively evaluate every smile
for signs of a more extensive issue. These technologies are then utilized to
develop all-encompassing treatment plans that thoroughly address any underlying
conditions and ensure lasting health. For more information about our approach
to effective preventive care, <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact Dr. Filandrianos</a> today. <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01636566824893170659noreply@blogger.com01400 Centre St #101, Newton, MA 02459, USA42.3266763 -71.197312216.671604800000004 -112.6816872 67.9817478 -29.7129372tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3304338483752610493.post-27708436248093959642016-04-04T12:00:00.000-07:002016-04-04T12:00:26.925-07:00Choosing My Clear Braces TreatmentFor many adults, <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/procedures/orthodontics/" target="_blank">braces</a> provide an opportunity to address long-term bite problems, correct alignment relapse, and improve overall symmetry and smile aesthetics. Thanks to the introduction of clear braces, mature patients are now able to enjoy the benefits of straighter smiles, without the discomfort or inconvenience of bulky metal braces. With so many different types of clear braces, patients have several different braces treatment options, each of which work best for different types of orthodontic needs. To determine which clear braces option works best for your smile, consider the following:<br />
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<b>Orthodontic Goals</b><br />
Depending on the patient’s ultimate goals, certain clear braces may be more effective. Patients that have crooked teeth in their smile zones and who are considering braces only for aesthetic reasons may benefit more from accelerated care with <b>Six Month Smiles®</b>. By using tooth-colored wires and clear brackets, this treatment combines the aesthetic benefits of clear braces with the stability of traditional braces.<br />
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For individuals seeking to alleviate more extensive bite alignment issues or relapsed teeth following previous orthodontic treatment, <b>Invisalign®</b> may provide a more effective solution to comprehensively addressing these issues. Unlike Six Month Smiles®, Invisalign® uses clear, removable aligning trays to straighten all teeth. Over the course of treatment, trays are swapped out, moving teeth without the need for brackets.<br />
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<b>Duration</b><br />
How long treatment takes is another key factor to consider when weighing your clear braces options. As Six Month Smiles® uses brackets and wires to re-align only teeth in the smile zone, this clear braces option operates in a shorter treatment window is an ideal option for patients pursuing cosmetic dental treatment in preparation for an upcoming event. On the other hand, while Invisalign® does take more time from the initial consultation through final follow-up appointments, the nature of treatment provides patients with comprehensive results for their entire smile, rather than just visible front teeth.<br />
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<b>Patient Commitment</b><br />
The level of patient involvement with treatment also plays a significant role in determining the best clear braces treatment option for your lifestyle. As the brackets of Six Month Smiles® are attached to teeth, patients are required to come in weekly for check-ups and tightening.<br />
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In contrast, as Invisalign® is removable, patients are able to trade out their trays at home, only visiting the dentist’s office every few weeks for check-ups. Being able to change trays at-home is highly convenient, however it does require patient diligence in wearing trays for the required 22 hours per day, maintaining exceptional oral hygiene, and swapping out trays when dictated by their unique treatment plan. Invisalign® is often recommended for adults committed to closely following at-home instructions.<br />
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<b>Learn More about Clear Braces Today</b><br />
Dr. Ted Filandrianos and his team of experienced dental specialists are dedicated to ensuring all patients receive personalized treatments that meet their unique health needs and help to achieve their smile goals. Our Newton dental practice offers Invisalign® and Six Month Smiles® as comprehensive, successful alternatives to traditional orthodontics. To learn more about your clear braces options in Newton, <b><a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/procedures/orthodontics/" target="_blank">contact our team today</a></b>.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01636566824893170659noreply@blogger.com01400 Centre St #101, Newton, MA 02459, USA42.3266763 -71.197312216.671604800000004 -112.6816872 67.9817478 -29.7129372tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3304338483752610493.post-34294744537709241432016-03-25T12:00:00.000-07:002016-03-25T12:00:37.538-07:00 Selecting the Right Restoration for Your SmileOver time, routine wear can erode the enamel of your teeth, opening the door for dental conditions that weaken the health of your smile and overall oral function. Reinforcing these damaged teeth with a <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/procedures/restorative-dentistry/">comprehensive restoration</a> can help ensure you retain your healthy smile and prevent more extensive issues in the future. However, with so many dental restorations available, knowing which treatment will most efficiently fulfill your health needs without creating future issues can be difficult.<br />
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Depending on the condition of your smile and your long-term health goals, consider the following treatment options:<br />
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<b>For Treating Cavities, Chips, and Minor Cracks</b><br />
In instances of minor tooth damage and enamel erosion, composite fillings may be the most effective, least invasive method of restoring the affected tooth. Unlike traditional metal fillings which can contract and expand when exposed to extreme temperatures and can cause the tooth to look gray, composite fillings are made of a tooth-colored resin that does not react to changes in temperature. As a result, patients are able to enjoy improved smiles without the discomfort associated with traditional amalgam fillings.<br />
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<b>For Restoring Teeth Following Root Canal Therapy or Fractures</b><br />
When teeth have been damaged as result of severe infection or abscess, a root canal is often the most effective treatment to prevent continued deterioration to a patient’s oral function. Following this endodontic treatment, porcelain crowns are often recommended as the ideal solution to reinforcing this damaged tooth while preventing reinfection.<br />
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Highly resilient and able to withstand routine function, crowns are designed to match the neighboring teeth in both appearance and functionality. Crowns may also be recommended in the event a fracture has extensively damaged a tooth and the tooth cannot be restored with composite fillings.<br />
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<b>To Replace Single or Multiple Missing Teeth</b><br />
Traditionally, fixed bridges were recommended as a comprehensive solution to correcting isolated tooth loss. However, this treatment also requires that the neighboring teeth be altered in order to successfully support the bridge. As a result, fixed bridges can require further restorations in the future. Similarly, while dentures and partials may seem like a financially sound idea early on, the long-term maintenance and replacement costs as well as negative oral health consequences can leave patients with less than satisfactory dental health and function.<br />
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By contrast, <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/dental-implants/">dental implants</a> offer an ideal solution which is applicable to diverse cases of missing or severely damaged teeth. As implants are able to support extensive restorations, including bridges and dentures, this restorative treatment option opens the door for patients with multiple missing teeth to enjoy the stability and aesthetics that come with dental implants. Additional benefits associated with dental implants and implant-supported restorations include treatment longevity and improved jaw strength.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/appointment-request/">Schedule Your Restoration Consultation</a> </b><br />
At Ted Filandrianos, DMD, FAGD, & Associates, <a href="http://www.teethbydrted.com/meet-the-doctors/">our Newton implant dentists</a> offer a number of comprehensive restorative treatment options tailored to your specific smile. From minimally invasive crowns to comprehensive full-arch restorations with dental implants, Dr. Filandrianos and his team utilize innovative technology and conservative techniques to provide patients with solutions that work for their unique dentitions.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01636566824893170659noreply@blogger.com01400 Centre St #101, Newton, MA 02459, USA42.3266763 -71.197312216.671604800000004 -112.6816872 67.9817478 -29.7129372tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3304338483752610493.post-734742363727749012015-12-18T11:36:00.000-08:002015-12-18T11:36:31.895-08:00Great Holiday Foods for Your TeethWhen you hear the jingles in the stores and see the decorations on your neighbor’s house, you know that the holiday season has arrived. Among other traditions, you can also expect food to play a big part of the holiday, whether it’s snacks for a party or a big family dinner. Unfortunately, a lot of traditional holiday food can be harmful to your teeth, from sticky candy canes to sugary, maybe alcoholic eggnog. Thankfully, there are also lots of seasonal dishes and treats that can keep your smile as healthy as ever.<br />
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You probably already have a sizable list of foods you know to be bad for your teeth: soda, coffee, and candy. However, what about the crackers you set out as hors d’oeuvres? Even without extra-sweet ingredients added in, bread and related snacks are full of carbohydrates – that is, sugar – and their crumbly, dissolvable nature means that these bacteria-feeding carbs get stuck to your teeth. Alcohol, not counting the sugar it is often made of or mixed with, will dry out your mouth; dry mouths are the perfect environment for bacteria. Even the cough drops you take for colds and the flu not only have sugar in them, but also expose you to that sugar over a long period of time. Cough syrup, despite having similar amounts of sugar in it, is quickly swallowed and doesn’t expose the teeth to that sugar too long. Simply put, too many holiday edibles encourage the decay of your teeth.<br />
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Not to worry! Lots of holiday foods diminish, if not reverse, the damage other foods can do. Two common party snacks, for example, are meat and cheese. The calcium and proteins provided by meat and cheese can actually strengthen your teeth and gums. Nuts, like meat, also provide your mouth with a burst of protein and saliva production that help defend your teeth from bacterial build-up. Instead of sweetened cranberry sauce in your dishes, try using fresh cranberries; they can interrupt the bonding process of the decadent bacteria. Though dried fruit is a bad idea, crunchy fruit and raw vegetables can help scrub plaque off of your teeth.<br />
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The holidays and their traditions are fast approaching. If you eat too much of the wrong kinds of traditional foods, or you find yourself chewing on that food for a long period of time, your teeth can suffer. However, holiday tradition have also given us a lot of food to protect and strengthen our teeth as well. So, when planning out the next holiday party or dinner, keep these foods in mind. They may just save your smile.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01636566824893170659noreply@blogger.com0Newton, MA, USA42.3370413 -71.2092213999999942.243124300000005 -71.370582899999988 42.4309583 -71.047859899999992tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3304338483752610493.post-70786116256861370572015-08-19T15:36:00.000-07:002015-08-19T15:36:28.895-07:00Periodontal Disease 101<b>What it is:</b><br />
Periodontal disease, known as gum disease or periodontitis, is one of the most common causes of tooth loss. In the United States, it is estimated that half of Americans aged 30 or older have advanced gum disease. While highly prevalent, this dental condition is preventable with a good oral health regimen.<br />
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<b>Cause:</b><br />
Periodontal disease symptoms become apparent as bacteria and debris accumulate around teeth and below the gum line and hardens into tartar. If not removed by a professional, tartar and bacteria can cause inflammation of the gums and weakening of teeth.<br />
There are variables that can increase your risk of periodontitis that range from genetic predisposition and underlying health conditions, to certain lifestyle habits. Diet, taking certain medications, decreased immunity, and hormonal changes can also increase your chances of developing gum disease.<br />
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<b>Stages:</b><br />
Periodontitis begins with the onset of gingivitis. In this early stage, bacteria builds up, irritating the surrounding gums. As bacteria accumulate and plaque builds and hardens into tartar, there is a weakening of bone and connective tissue that keeps teeth in their sockets. As bacteria spreads, pockets that trap further bacteria begin to form around teeth and under soft tissue. In patients with advanced periodontal disease, teeth become loose and fall out.<br />
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<b>Symptoms:</b><br />
One of the most difficult aspects of spotting periodontal disease without help from a dentist is that the condition can progress slowly in patients and may not always produce obvious signs. Patients may notice:<br />
-<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Gum tenderness<br />
-<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Gum recession<br />
-<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Bad breath or bad taste in your mouth<br />
-<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Loose teeth or a change in teeth alignment<br />
Diagnosis of gum disease typically involves visiting a dentist for a visual examination of your oral condition, as well as charting pocket depths and using X-Rays to check bone loss in areas with deeper periodontal pockets.<br />
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<b>Treatment:</b><br />
Early diagnosis gives patients the greatest chance of reversing damage with nonsurgical treatments. These procedures include root scaling and planing, which removes tartar and bacteria from surfaces of teeth and beneath the gums and smooths root surfaces,. Antibiotics that are either taken orally or topically as a rinse, can also be used to reduce bacteria and inflammation.<br />
For patients with advanced periodontitis, dental surgery may be the most effective option to reduce pocket size and restore the healthy appearance and supportive structure of soft tissue.<br />
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<b>Prevention:</b><br />
Periodontal disease is preventable by practicing consistent and good oral hygiene. As a rule of thumb, you should be taking between 3-5 minutes twice day to care for your teeth and gums by flossing first to loosen any food particles and bacteria, and brushing to clean all surfaces of teeth. You should also visit your dentist twice a year for thorough teeth cleanings. Patients displaying early signs of gum disease may require more frequent dental visits throughout the year.<br />
If are exhibiting signs and symptoms of gum disease, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible. The sooner you can receive treatment, the more likely you will be able to reverse any damage caused by periodontal disease.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01636566824893170659noreply@blogger.com0Newton, MA, USA42.3370413 -71.2092213999999942.243124300000005 -71.370582899999988 42.4309583 -71.047859899999992tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3304338483752610493.post-24656727277128344492015-05-26T15:47:00.000-07:002015-08-19T15:39:58.296-07:00Take Good Care of Your Teeth By Following These Six Brushing TipsBrushing your teeth everyday is one of the best ways to take care of your smile. For optimal dental health, follow these six tips:<br />
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1) Pick the right brush that fits your needs – Not all toothbrushes were created equal. Between varying sizes, bristle strengths, and the recommendations given to you from your favorite dental care provider, there are plenty of options to choose from.<br />
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2) Master the technique – Brush your teeth at gum line using a 45-degree angle. Gently move your toothbrush back and forth in short motions, cleaning the outer surfaces of your teeth. Move your brush in gentle up and down motions to clean the inner surfaces of your teeth. Then be sure to brush your tongue!<br />
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3) Take your time – Follow the “2 minutes x 2 times per day” rule.<br />
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4) Don’t overdo it – Ever hear of having too much of a good thing? Overbrushing can cause dental issues such as wearing down the enamel on your teeth or receding gums.<br />
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5) Good hygiene is the way to go – Always rinse your toothbrush before and after brushing; germs tend to linger if you don’t keep your toothbrush clean. (Also, do not keep your toothbrush capped or near a toilet. Trust us on this one.)<br />
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6) Let it go – Make sure to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or when you start seeing frayed bristles. Also, if you’ve been sick, think about throwing out the old one and replacing it with a new brush.<br />
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By practicing proper dental care daily, we minimize the risk of cavities and developing other dental health related issues. To make an appointment with your Newton dentist, Dr. Ted Filandrianos, call us today at (617) 244-4871.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01636566824893170659noreply@blogger.com0Newton, MA, USA42.3370413 -71.2092213999999942.243124300000005 -71.370582899999988 42.4309583 -71.047859899999992