Keep Your Breath Fresh Step by Step

1.     We’ve all done a hand check, right? But other than a false sense of security -- or maybe a hand that smells -- what does it prove? Not much. But what we do know is you are what you eat. When you eat, food starts to be digested in your mouth. Bacteria break down food particles and releases sulfur compounds that are involved in bad breath.

2.     Another cause is poor oral health. Bacteria from tooth decay or gum problems will linger in your mouth like a vacationing guest at your house, so ask yourself: Are you really brushing and flossing as you should? Are you using an antibacterial mouthwash? A more severe problem, like gingivitis or periodontal disease, will require professional intervention. So visit your dentist regularly as part of your battle against halitosis.

3.     Speaking of bacteria, your tongue can be a magnet for unpleasant germs and smells, so don’t forget it when you’re brushing. If your tongue feels like it needs to be shaved with a razor, brushing may not be enough. If that’s the case, use a tongue-cleaning device to scrape it clean. You might even get one free when you see your dentist.

4.     It may seem obvious, but eau du tobacco … no. If you want fresh breath, don’t smoke.

5.     How wet is your whistle? Saliva is the body’s natural way of keeping your mouth cleansed, and the salivary gland doesn’t work as well if your well is dry.

6.     Finally, persistent bad breath could be the sign of a major medical problem, like acid reflux, sinus infections, diabetes, or kidney problems. So make sure you get regular medical checkups and follow any special instructions your doctor may give you.

Above article from: WebMD.com

East Berlin Smiles 

Tel: 717-259-9596

418 West King Street

East Berlin, PA 17316

USA

Your Teeth and Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-colored resin material (a durable plastic material) is applied and hardened with a special light, which ultimately "bonds" the material to the tooth to restore or improve person's smile.

For What Conditions Is Dental Bonding Considered?

Dental bonding is an option that can be considered:

      ·      To repair decayed teeth (composite resins are used to fill cavities)

      ·      To repair chipped or cracked teeth

      ·      To improve the appearance of discolored teeth

      ·      To close spaces between teeth

      ·      To make teeth look longer

      ·      To change the shape of teeth

      ·      As a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings

      ·      To protect a portion of the tooth's root that has been exposed when gums recede

What's the Procedure for Having a Tooth Bonded?

·      Preparation. Little advance preparation is needed for dental bonding. Anesthesia is often not necessary unless the bonding is being used to fill a decayed tooth. Your dentist will use a shade guide to select a composite resin color that will closely match the color of your tooth.

·      The bonding process. Next, the surface of the tooth will be roughened and a conditioning liquid applied. These procedures help the bonding material adhere to the tooth. The tooth-colored, putty-like resin is then applied, molded, and smoothed to the desired shape. An ultraviolet light or laser is then used to harden the material. After the material is hardened, your dentist will further trim and shape it, and polish it to match the sheen of the rest of the tooth surface.

·      Time-to-completion. Dental bonding takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth to complete.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Bonding?

·      Advantages: Dental bonding is among the easiest and least expensive of cosmetic dental procedures. Unlike veneers and crowns, which are customized tooth coverings that must be manufactured in a laboratory, bonding usually can be done in one office visit unless several teeth are involved. Another advantage, compared with veneers and crowns, is that the least amount of tooth enamel is removed. Also, unless dental bonding is being performed to fill a cavity, anesthesia is usually not required.

·      Disadvantages: Although the material used in dental bonding is somewhat stain resistant, it does not resist stains as well as crowns. Another disadvantage is that the bonding materials do not last as long nor are as strong as other restorative procedures, such as crowns, veneers, or fillings. Additionally, bonding materials can chip and break off the tooth.

Because of some of the limitations of dental bonding, some dentists view it as best suited for small cosmetic changes, for temporary correction of cosmetic defects, and for correction of teeth in areas of very low bite pressure (for example, front teeth). Consult with your dentist about the best cosmetic approach for your particular problem.

Above article from: WebMD.com

East Berlin Smiles

Tel: 717-259-9596

418 West King Street

East Berlin, PA 17316

USA

Dental Health With Crooked Teeth and Misaligned Bites

There are several reasons why some people's teeth grow in crooked, overlapping, or twisted. Some people's mouths are too small for their teeth, which crowds the teeth and causes them to shift. In other cases, a person's upper and lower jaws aren't the same size or are malformed, resulting in either an overbite, when there is excessive protrusion of the upper jaw, or an under bite, when the lower jaw protrudes forward causing the lower jaw and teeth to extend out beyond the upper teeth.

Most often crooked teeth, overbites, and under bites are inherited traits just as the color of your eyes or size of your hands. Other causes of misaligned bites are early loss of baby or adult teeth; improper fit of dental restorations (for example, fillings or crowns); gingivitis (gum disease); undue pressure on the teeth and gums; misalignment of jaw after severe facial injury; tumors of the mouth or jaw; or common oral health problems in children such as thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, pacifier use beyond the age of three, or prolonged use of a bottle.

What Problems Come With Crooked Teeth and Misaligned Bites?

Crooked teeth and misaligned bites can:

      ·      Interfere with proper chewing.

      ·      Make keeping teeth clean more of a challenge, increasing the risk of tooth decay, cavities, and gingivitis.

      ·      Strain the teeth, jaws, and muscles, increasing the risk of breaking a tooth.

      ·      Make people feel self-conscious about their appearance and affect their self-esteem.

How Do I Know if My Teeth Are Crooked or My Bite Is Misaligned?

While you can see for yourself if your teeth are crooked, your dentist can determine if your problem warrants treatment. Your dentist will look for the following signs:

      ·      Abnormal alignment of your teeth

      ·      Abnormal appearance of your face

      ·      Difficulty or discomfort when chewing or biting

      ·      Speech difficulties, including a lisp

Your dentist will usually refer you to an orthodontist --a dentist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of crooked teeth and misaligned jaws.

What Tests Can I Expect at the Orthodontist?

The orthodontist will likely take X-rays, photographs of your face, and teeth impressions to determine if and what type of treatment is needed. X-rays provide information on the position of your teeth and roots and if any teeth have yet to come through the gums. Special cephalometrics or panoramic X-rays show the relationship of the teeth to the jaws and the jaws to the head. Your orthodontist may also want to take regular photographs of your face to further examine the relationship between your teeth, jaws, and head. Finally, impressions may be made of your teeth. This is done by having you bite down on a soft material that is later used to create an exact copy of your teeth.

How Are Crooked Teeth and Misaligned Bites Treated?

Once a diagnosis is made, your orthodontist can decide the best treatment for your teeth or misaligned bite. For some people, a removable retainer (to stabilize the new position of teeth) will be all that's needed to correct the problem. Removal of one or more teeth may be required if overcrowding is the main problem. For most people, braces are necessary to correct the problem. In rare and extreme cases, such as an extreme overbite or under bite, an operation may be necessary.

Above article from: WebMD.com


East Berlin Smiles 

Tel: 717-259-9596

418 West King Street

East Berlin, PA 17316

USA

Dental Patient Testimonials East Berlin PA

Our dental patients are so kind!  Check out our newest testimonials below!

“Best dental office around!”
—Ralph M. (March 21, 2012)

“You have the best dentist and staff in the country. I am glad I was a part of this extraordinary office.”
—Suzie M. (January 13, 2012)

“I have referred family and friends to you. I think you are very focused and caring in the delivery of your services. Keep up the great job.”
—Millie L. (January 13, 2012)

“Yes, I would forward my friends to your office. I'm sure they would have good experiences just as I have.”
—Marsha T. (December 2, 2011)

“The secretaries were very nice and cheerful!”
—Alyssa P. (November 4, 2011)

“The people at the office are very nice.”
—Karen S. (September 22, 2011)

“You guys are amazing!!! We love you all!!!!”
—Val H. (August 12, 2011)

“Always a great visit!! You and your group, including Janice, are very professional and give exceptional dental treatment. I have been a patient for 14 years and with Dr. Cockley since she took over the practice. Thanks for all you do!!”
—Ernie R. (August 11, 2011)

“I was very impressed with the staff, very friendly and professional yet I felt very comfortable. I am so glad I switched dentists. Maybe a bit more expensive, but you get what you pay for. I'm liking my teeth again.”
—Susan R. (August 11, 2011)

“Very welcoming.”
—Evan B. (August 5, 2011)

“Everyone is friendly and welcoming!”
—Marlee B. (August 4, 2011)

“Very professional treatment and a great staff.”
—Frank G. (June 8, 2011)

“Very friendly and make you feel at ease.”
—Anonymous (June 3, 2011)

“Your office is always so friendly and they make it a pleasure to visit the dentist office.”
—Janet M. (May 12, 2011)

“I can't think of any changes that would affect my experience. Everyone seems very informed and cheerful.”
—Steve T. (April 13, 2011)

“The staff is always wonderful, friendly, and accommodating! I always have a great experience...I really enjoyed the extra pampering this visit! Thanks Janice!”
—Sonia S. (April 1, 2011)


“Everybody in that office is wonderful! It is a delight to come to a dentist office with such great customer service and 
employee morale!”
—Erika R. (March 26, 2011)

“Dear Lori, are you sure you want to ask that question? OK, you asked for it. For starters I would like a remote control so I could turn on a TV or remote Bose CD player. Optional shots of Jack Daniels to further deaden the experience of the dreaded dental visit. Of course having someone hold my hand and give me a manicure and a pedicure for the intended office visits in the chair. Truthfully Doc, I like your staff a lot and you all make me feel comfortable. You have a wonderful dental work family. Keep up the good work. Sincerely Steve.”
—Stephen G. February 17, 2011)

“Every aspect was great.”
—Matt S. (Febrauary 11, 2011)

“Actually, I thought everything went great on my 1st visit. Felt very welcome and not just a number.”
—Sara L. (January 23, 2011)

“Everyone in the office greeted me with a warm and welcoming smile! It was without a doubt the most comfortable experience in a dentist office I have ever had! The entire staff was so kind and caring.”
—Christine T. (January 6, 2011)

“Everyone was very pleasant, and they were very helpful. I’m just sorry I broke up your pizza party. I will definitely refer you to my friends. Thanks for a pleasant visit again.”
—David A. (December 31, 2010)

“Everyone was extremely friendly, making the whole experience really great. When I told my friends they asked if I went to the dentist or a spa. The up-to-date technology is also a big plus. I am definitely a new permanent patient. (To make me personally feel more comfortable during visits would be the shaded glasses every time due to my eyes being sensitive to the light – it really helped. And perhaps numbing gel on all teeth gums to to help with the sensitivity when the water device is being used during procedures.) Thank you to the Entire Staff!”
—Tina H. (December 30, 2011)

“From the minute I walked in the door I was greeted by a friendly professional staff that made me feel welcome. I have told my friends about the pleasant experience I had and am over my dentist phobia for now. I appreciate the extended hours offered, which make appointments easier for my schedule. I am very happy with my whole experience and regret to tell you that you will be stuck with me as a patient for a long time.”
—Craig P. (December 27, 2010)

“Thanks to the entire staff.....everyone is so friendly and I feel like I am one of the family when I come to this office! Also, Janice....you are wonderful to my teeth! Susie....we'll miss you when you retire....best wishes as you enjoy the next 
chapter of life!!!”
—Holly C. (November 24, 2010)

“Outstanding experience!”
—Douglas W. (November 19, 2010)

“The Staff are so warm and friendly and the service is excellent.”
—Millie L. (November 10, 2010)

“Everyone was very friendly and courteous. Everything was explained in detail and on a level for anyone to understand.”
—Sherrie R. (November 10, 2010)