Advanced TMD Therapy with TENS

From 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.

Treating TMD varies from patients to patient. While some can benefit from the daily use of a splint or oral appliance, others require more extensive neuromuscular-orthotic therapy. Within this comprehensive approach, specialized therapy known as TENS treatment helps many patients achieve best results.

What is TENS Therapy?
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, 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.

TENS and Other TMD Therapies 
At our Newton dental practice, TMD dentist Dr. Steven Bader uses TENS therapy as part of a larger, multi-faceted approach to treating TMJ disorders. During TMJ Dysfunction Phase 1 Therapy, 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.

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.

During the second phase of TMD therapy, 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.

Treating TMD in Newton 
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, contact our Newton TMJ dysfunction specialist today.

Teeth Whitening, Veneers, Same-Day Crowns

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.

Teeth Whitening

For patients looking to brighten their smiles, professional teeth whitening 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.

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.

Veneers

For patients with deep inner-tooth staining, as well as those with chipped or cracked teeth, veneers 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.

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.

Same-Day Crowns

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 same-daycrowns. 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.

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.

Learn More about Cosmetic Dentistry Today

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, contact Ted Filandrianos, DMD, FAGD & Associates today. 

Treating Periodontal Disease

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.

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.

Types of Periodontal Treatments

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:

Deep Cleaning: Also known as root planing and scaling, 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.

Soft Tissue Lasers: Dental lasers 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. 

Gum Grafting: 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.

Dental Implants: 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.

Periodontal Treatment in Newton

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, contact ourNewton dentist today.

The Importance of Preventive Dentistry

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 preventive check-ups and treatments is one of the most proactive methods of protecting both oral and overall health.

The Oral-Systemic Relationship

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.

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 gum disease and teeth abscesses 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.

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.  

What is Preventive Dentistry?

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.

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.

Preventive Dental Care in Newton

The first step to maintaining a beautiful smile and lasting overall health begins with regular check-ups and cleanings. At our state-of-the-art dental practice 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, contact Dr. Filandrianos today. 

Choosing My Clear Braces Treatment

For many adults, braces 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:

Orthodontic Goals
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 Six Month Smiles®. By using tooth-colored wires and clear brackets, this treatment combines the aesthetic benefits of clear braces with the stability of traditional braces.

For individuals seeking to alleviate more extensive bite alignment issues or relapsed teeth following previous orthodontic treatment, Invisalign® 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.

Duration
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.

Patient Commitment
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.

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.

Learn More about Clear Braces Today
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, contact our team today.

Selecting the Right Restoration for Your Smile

Over 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 comprehensive restoration 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.

Depending on the condition of your smile and your long-term health goals, consider the following treatment options:

For Treating Cavities, Chips, and Minor Cracks
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.

For Restoring Teeth Following Root Canal Therapy or Fractures
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.

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.

To Replace Single or Multiple Missing Teeth
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.

By contrast, dental implants 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.

Schedule Your Restoration Consultation 
At Ted Filandrianos, DMD, FAGD, & Associates, our Newton implant dentists 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.

Great Holiday Foods for Your Teeth

When 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.

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.

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.

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.