Many people think that they can’t or shouldn’t have dentures. The reality is that there are plenty of problems that require them, and there are plenty of reasons to consider them as a long-term solution for your oral health. If you need dentures in San Jose, we’ve got you covered.

It’s important, first of all, to understand the differences between what you need today and what you need tomorrow. Knowing what you do and don’t need helps make those decisions easier.

If you have serious problems with your teeth or if you have serious dental decay that needs attention, then you need dentures. Bridges can help, but only if you’re willing to take an active role in caring for them.

Why Dentures?

Dental implants are a common replacement for missing teeth, but dentures have their own benefits. Implants require surgery to be placed under the gum line and require a long recovery process.    

While dentures can’t stimulate the jawbone like implants, they do provide many of the same benefits and can be put in place immediately, which takes a lot less time than receiving an implant. Between potential bone grafting, placing the implant, the healing process, and topping it off with a crown, the process can end up taking many months.

Dentures have to be changed from time to time. One can easily remove a denture at home without any help or without waiting for an appointment with an oral surgeon or a dentist.  

There are other inconveniences, too, that you do need to address if you want to choose dental implants over dentures. For one thing, it will cost a bit more. While dental implants are definitely a great investment, dentures are a more inexpensive option. You’ll need to take a look at your budget to decide which option is best for your financial situation.  

What are the Benefits of Getting Dentures?

There are a lot of advantages to getting dentures. For one, you can seal the gap for any missing teeth. Having missing teeth can be a very embarrassing situation, so you’d want an option wherein you won’t have to visit the dentist often.

When getting dentures, you need to remember that even though your teeth will not be impacted and sealed as they would be with a filling, you still need to care for them properly to ensure that they last for years to come.  

It’s also a cheaper option compared to implants. So, if you’re on a tight budget, getting dentures to solve your problems of having missing teeth is the better way to go.

Looking for the Best Dentures in San Jose?

Finding a reliable dentist for the job can be overwhelming, especially when you have a lot of choices to choose from. But if you want to have the best dentures in San Jose, then head on over to the Center for Advanced Dentistry.

We offer the best services and care for all your dental needs. You can rest assured that your teeth are in good hands.

Healthy, functioning jaws allow you to go about necessary daily tasks, such as biting, chewing, and speaking, with ease. Once jaw pain sets in, though, your ability to do all of these things can suffer. So can your mood. About 30-40% of people in the US live with chronic orofacial pain, including pain affecting the jaw. If your own symptoms are severe or long-lasting, seeking proper care is important.

If you’re showing signs of a jaw pain disorder, the highly trained and qualified dentists at Center for Advanced Dentistry in San Jose, California, have a range of effective solutions. Read on to learn more about jaw pain and why you don’t want to delay treatment.

Jaw pain causes

• Jaw pain can crop up for a slew of reasons, including:
• Dental abscesses
• Jaw arthritis
• Frequently clenching or grinding your teeth
• Head injuries
• Misaligned teeth
• Temporomandibular joint disorder

Also known as TMJ disorder or TMD, temporomandibular joint disorder is a condition in which chronic pain occurs in the  temporomandibular joint, the hinged joint that connects your jaw and skull. An especially common cause of jaw pain, TMD affects one in eight adults at some point in their life. And numerous factors that cause general and seemingly temporary jaw pain, such as teeth grinding and injuries, can lead to TMD if the underlying cause isn’t addressed.

TMJ disorder symptoms

Symptoms of TMD vary between people, both in type and intensity. When you’re dealing with a TMJ disorder, the signs may include:

• Ear pain
• Eye pain
• Chronic headaches
• Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth
• Facial pain
• Jaw clicking or locking
• Jaw pain, especially while using your jaw
• Jaw spasms
• Shoulder tension

Jaw pain complications

If you don’t treat your jaw pain, it’s likely to intensify over time. Ignoring TMD symptoms can impact your ability to eat, swallow, speak, control your facial muscles, and even breathe normally. Unmanaged jaw pain can also make it difficult to sleep, which can affect your daytime energy, appetite, and mood. In addition, the jaw pain itself can become a significant source of emotional stress, leading to irritability and a reduced capacity to fully enjoy your life.

Jaw pain treatment

Thankfully, there are effective treatments for jaw pain — and the sooner you seek help, the better your odds will be for avoiding complications and finding relief. Your treatment plan at Center for Advanced Dentistry may include:

• Botox injections, for reduced muscle tightness
• Lifestyle changes, such as heat or ice therapy and relaxation techniques
• Medications, to reduce pain and inflammation
• Mouth guards, to reduce teeth clenching and grinding at night
• Physical therapy, including stretches you can do at home

If other treatments fail to help, we may recommend a minimally invasive procedure to remove debris and inflammatory byproducts or repair your jaw tissues.

To learn more about jaw pain or get started with treatment, call Center for Advanced Dentistry at 408-498-9082, or request an appointment on our website.

If you’re suffering from toothaches caused by your wisdom tooth, you don’t have to live with the pain it causes. A tooth extraction in San Jose can help relieve your pain and discomfort without compromising oral health. While this procedure is for everyone, you’ll still need to check in with your dentist when you can get your wisdom tooth removed.  

If you want to know when you can get your tooth removed, we’ve gathered some of the common signs that tell you it’s time to say goodbye to your wisdom tooth.  

Signs You Need a Wisdom Tooth Extraction    

Gum Pain and Discomfort    

How your wisdom tooth grows will determine the pain and discomfort you’ll feel. If your tooth grows sideways or is misaligned, it can put more pressure on the other teeth making it more painful and uncomfortable. You’ll notice severe pain surrounding the area of the tooth and inflammation of the gums.  

You’ll experience jaw pain, discomfort, and stiffness surrounding the area of your wisdom tooth. If you don’t have your tooth removed at this point, the pain can intensify when it presses on your nerves and bones. If you feel discomfort around your tooth, you’ll need to visit your dentist immediately to get an x-ray.  

Indications of Infection  

One sign that you need your wisdom tooth extracted is when you develop a gum infection. Infections can happen anytime, whether your wisdom tooth has totally or partially erupted. The gum tissue surrounding the area turns red, inflamed, and sensitive, in addition to experiencing frequent sore throats and enlarged lymph nodes.  

In certain instances, an infection may even cause pus to form in your mouth. If the condition has settled on your gums, you’ll need to treat it before you can extract your wisdom tooth. It would be best to visit your dentist as soon as possible before this discomfort starts to limit your ability to carry out your normal activities.  

Cyst Growth

Are there any sacs of fluids forming around your wisdom teeth? If you do, you’ll need to see your dentist, especially if your mouth experiences pain or discomfort due to these cysts. Your dentist will help you identify these lumps and whether you need additional treatment.  

Misaligned and Crooked Teeth  

If you don’t have enough room in your jawbone for a wisdom tooth, your third molar will move your other teeth together and make them crooked. Fortunately, your dentist can determine whether your wisdom tooth will crowd your other teeth by examining X-rays. When your other teeth have already started misaligning, they may also need additional orthodontic treatment.  

Cavities  

An impacted wisdom tooth can damage the teeth surrounding it, causing small cracks or holes that can develop into cavities. If you notice that you’re forming cavities within this area despite brushing and flossing daily, you might need to see your dentist immediately. Developing cavities is a clear sign that you need to remove your wisdom tooth since it could cause further damage to your oral health.  

Do You Need a Tooth Extraction in San Jose?  

Please don’t wait until it’s too late to remove your wisdom teeth. Here at the Center for Advanced Dentistry, we offer safe and reliable tooth extraction services. Call us today to make an appointment.

There are many ways to improve your oral health. One method is dental cleaning with a checkup. It is typically recommended that you see a dentist practicing family dentistry in San Jose at least twice a year.    

Having dental examinations twice a month is a great way to keep your teeth in perfect condition and prevent oral diseases. While this service has a lot of benefits for your dental wellness, have you ever wondered what’s involved in this procedure? If you want to know more, here’s what happens during a dental cleaning and checkup.  

Everything You Need to Know About Dental Checkups  

Dental Checkup and Cleaning Routine    

A routine dental examination involves a series of steps to determine the status of your oral health. These regular visits enable your dentist to detect dental problems that you may not be aware of. All measures employed are designed to improve the quality of your teeth and gums and prevent future diseases from happening.      

Your dental service may include:    

• Examining your teeth and gums for diseases  
• Inquiring about your eating habits and cigarette or alcohol consumption  
• Taking annual x-rays to track your oral health  
• Scaling and root planing  
• Flossing and polishing of your teeth  
• Giving you tips on how to enhance your oral hygiene practices
• Giving you advice on teeth-cleaning practices in general  

Why Do I Need a Dental Checkup?    

Having good oral health can help keep the rest of your body healthy and free from pain and discomfort. Through biannual updates on your dental health, you can prevent potential problems from happening. Having a scheduled dental examination will help you plan and deal with your situation in the best way possible.

Advantages of Dental Exams  

A dental exam does not only look for cavities and tooth decay. Other issues like developing gum diseases, accumulation of plaque and tartar, and bad breath can also be identified. Your dentist will look for signs and symptoms of different tooth and gum-related diseases during your routine checkup.    

Dental examinations can reveal plenty of disorders, including:    

• Mouth cancer    ‍
• Periodontal disease    
• Perio breath    
• Damaged and cracked tooth    

What You Should Do Between Dental Appointments  

Between dental visits, be sure to look after your teeth and gums. Plaque is constantly growing on your teeth, but you can keep it under control by brushing and flossing regularly. Here are some dental care suggestions you can do before your next dental visit.  

• Make sure to use fluoride-containing toothpaste  
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day  
• To help control plaque and bacteria, use mouthwash  
• Floss  

Do You Need an Expert in Family Dentistry in San Jose?  

Oral health is all about preventative care and assistance. If you’re looking for a team who can help treat your dental concerns early on, our reliable dentists can provide you with the service you need. We’re always ready to answer any questions you might have about our services or the condition of your smile. Get in touch with our professionals today to get started on your oral health!

Veneers and implants? Pretty similar, right? Nope! If you feel undecided between dental implants and porcelain veneers in San Jose, we’re about to make your life easier, because the situations requiring these treatments are completely different.

While dental veneers are great for fixing minor cosmetic issues with your smile, dental implants are used top completely replace a missing or severely damaged tooth. Let’s take a closer look an implants and veneers and why they might be right for you.

Your Cosmetic Options

Implants for Missing Teeth

Dental implants may be recommended by your dentist if you’ve had any tooth loss. Special posts will be implanted into the jawbone. Once the implant and bone have fused, the operation will be completed with a crown restoration.

The visible crowns will resemble your natural teeth in appearance. If you have visible teeth that are chipped, discolored, crooked, or worn down, you may want to think about getting veneers instead.

Veneers

Veneers may be a better option for you if you want a Hollywood smile. Veneers can fix several aesthetic issues, including misaligned teeth, gaps between teeth, and cracked or damaged tooth enamel.

Dental veneers are made of medical-grade ceramic and are custom-sculpted to resemble your natural teeth as closely as possible. The procedure is straightforward: the dentist applies an adhesive to each tooth before placing a veneer on top.

How Bad is the Damage?

If you have a badly damaged tooth, you should consider getting a dental implant to replace it entirely and avoid any further infections or issues in the future. For serious problems such as gum line broken teeth, a dental implant can be a solution.

Veneers, on the other hand, are best used to correct modest cosmetic dental issues including chipping, stains, and spacing.

How Long Does the Implant Process Take?

Your implant treatment plan will determine how long it takes to complete the process. Since the implant must fuse with the jawbone before the operation is complete, the time required will vary from person to person and circumstance.

Are Dental Implants Long Lasting?

Routine dental implant appointments help them last a lifetime. The titanium substance bonds to your jawbone and is impervious to decay and gum disease.

Veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. However, they are just as susceptible to damage as your natural teeth, and as a result, they too might chip or shatter. 

Looking to Get Veneers in San Jose?

Regardless of your choice for cosmetic dental treatment, it is still very important to see you dentist a couple times per year for an exam. Make a dental plan for yourself so that you can better manage your long-term expenses and stay on top of your oral health.

Routine checkups, usually every six months, may be covered for little to nothing with the proper insurance plan. If you want to get implants or quality veneers in San Jose, head on over to the Center for Advanced Dentistry. We offer some of the best dental services in all of San Jose. Call us today!

Are you looking to get oral surgery in San Jose soon? The best thing to do before that happens is to do your research to know what to expect during and after your surgery.

Recovering from oral surgery is not exactly the easiest thing in the world since you have to eat after the mouth was worked on. There are general precautions you have to take, and there are also specific ones depending on what kind of oral surgery procedure you had just got done.

Oral Surgery Procedures

There are many types of oral surgeries. Depending on what you need for your mouth, each treatment you get may vary. Here are some of the most common procedures done in oral surgery:

Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Third molars or wisdom teeth do not always emerge fully and successfully through the gum line. Thus, the term “impacted wisdom teeth.”  

Having an impacted wisdom tooth requires tooth extraction, as recommended by most dentists, to avoid painful problems in the future. To have an impacted wisdom tooth means to have your third molar pressed firmly together between the jawbone and the gum tissue.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are restorative procedures that involve the embedding of titanium in the jawbone to act as the strong support of the tooth replacement or the dental crown.  

They can last up to decades and even a lifetime when taken care of properly.

Frenectomy

A condition where there is an excess amount of tissue in the lower and upper lips to the jaw and gum line requires an oral surgery called a frenectomy.  

This oral surgery that involves the removal of the excess tissue has two kinds: a labial frenectomy, one that is performed inside the middle-upper lip, and a lingual frenectomy, conducted under the tongue.

Recovering From Oral Surgery

Recovery from any surgery can be challenging. To have a smooth-sailing recovery process, there are activities and foods that you need to avoid and some steps you need to follow.

Follow these steps, and you’ll recover from your oral surgery in no time!

Rest

This is always the first piece of advice when recovering from oral surgery. You must always take it easy after a dental surgery which is why when you book an appointment, make sure that you have nothing planned for the rest of the day.  

Avoid using extra effort and strength by lifting or bending as these activities can cause your blood clots to dislodge and ultimately cause bleeding.

Apply Ice or Cold Compress

It is normal to have swelling. This is why you must apply ice to your jaw intermittently for the first 24 hours.

Block the Blood

Your gums can bleed after oral surgery, so try to clot the blood by gently biting on a folded gauze. Remember to avoid doing activities that can cause you to bleed too much. Otherwise, you’re going to have to call your dentist or oral surgeon.

Take Your Meds

If the pain is intolerable, the dentist can prescribe you pain medications to help manage the pain. You can also buy over-the-counter pain relievers.

Watch Your Food

You simply must watch the food you eat. Avoid hot, hard, chewy, and spicy foods that can cause irritation. Cold, soft foods are good for you when recovering from oral surgery.

Soft Foods You Can Eat After Oral Surgery

It’s normal not to consume hard or chewy foods after oral surgery. Your dentist will also advise against it since it can hinder healing. Here are some soft foods you can enjoy during your time of recovery:

• Fruits and Vegetables
• Avocado
• Apple Sauce
• Banana (mashed)
• Mango
• Mashed and Well-cooked Vegetables
• Dessert
• Jell-O
• Popsicles
• Ice Cream
• Milkshake
• Pudding
• Yogurt
• Protein
• Eggs
• Fish
• Tuna or Chicken Salad
• Beans
• Mashed Peas
• Tofu
• Meatloaf
• Carbs
• Mashed Potatoes
• Rice
• Well-cooked Pasta
• Oatmeal
• Soup-soaked Bread

Are You Planning to Undergo Oral Surgery in San Jose?

Equipped with the latest dental technology, our Center for Advanced Dentistry team will provide you with excellent service and first-class performance on whatever oral surgery procedure in San Jose you need.

Get in touch today to learn more about oral surgery and recovery tips!

If you have dental anxiety, it’s a typical sign that you feel uneasy when going to the dentist. Dental anxiety is a common issue that prevents many people from receiving the necessary dental care that they need because of their fear of going through a dental procedure. This makes it difficult for them to maintain a regular dental treatment, leading to more significant issues in the future.  

There are, however, some immediate solutions to deal with dental anxiety that can help you get over your fear of the dentist, and one is sedation dentistry in San Jose. Sedation dentistry has many uses and benefits for patients who undergo a dental operation. To help you understand the co-relation between these factors, here’s everything you need to know about sedation dentistry and dental anxiety.  

Anxiety and Sedation Dentistry: How Can It Help?    

What is Dental Anxiety?  

Dental anxiety is a condition where a patient feels uneasy, anxious, or fearful whenever faced with a potential visit to the dentist. This should not be mistaken for dental phobia, a more serious condition that prevents people from going to the dentist. People with dental anxiety will still visit their dentist; however, they’ll still feel anxious and uneasy when they’re on the dentist’s chair.  

Signs and Symptoms of Dental Anxiety  

There are plenty of signs that may indicate that a patient has dental anxiety. While some signs and symptoms are apparent, some are hard to spot. Here are some signs that you need to look out for whether or not you have dental anxiety:  

• Reluctant about visiting the dentist  
• Getting stressed before a dental appointment  
• Sweating or palpitations  
• Nausea when sitting on the dentist’s chair  
• Feeling anxious when stepping into a dental clinic  

Causes of Dental Anxiety  

While the exact cause of dental anxiety is not fully understood, evidence points toward psychological and physical factors. One known cause of dental anxiety is trauma. A previous bad experience at the dentist can lead to anxiety by association. Whenever they visit their dentist, they will never forget that one bad moment they had before, even if it was years ago.

How to Manage Dental Anxiety  

There are plenty of ways to help patients manage their dental anxiety before, during, and after a dental appointment. The first step you need to take is to inform your dentist beforehand that you have dental anxiety. Having a conversation with your dentist can alleviate some of your fears and clear some things that might be vague for you.  

Some methods and techniques that can help reduce dental anxiety include:  

• Sedation dentistry  
• Breathing exercises  
• Listening to relaxing music
• Meditation  
• Talking to your dentist while on the chair  

How Sedation Dentistry Can Help With Your Anxiety  

Sedation dentistry may be the best option for treating dental anxiety and some forms of dental phobia. This procedure involves using medication before you undergo your dental appointment to help you relax and stay calm. There are a few different types of sedation that your dentist may recommend depending on your anxiety level.  

Whether you need oral sedation, laughing gas, or IV sedation, sedation dentistry can help you get dental care. Each level of sedation can affect you in different ways, but ultimately, the goal of sedation dentistry is to keep you calm. Talk to your dentist about sedation options that are right for you.  

Want to Know What Sedation Dentistry in San Jose Is Best for You?

Our dentists are eager to hear from you if you’d like to learn more about how sedation dentistry can help lessen your dental anxiety. Here at the Center for Advanced Dentistry, we provide exceptional dental care in a comfortable environment. Schedule an appointment today!

Many people have gaps in their smile due to various reasons such as accidents, tooth decay, or aging. While it may seem like just a cosmetic issue, the truth is that missing teeth can affect more than just your appearance. In fact, there are several important reasons why you should consider replacing those missing teeth sooner rather than later. From maintaining proper oral health to boosting your self-confidence, the benefits of replacing missing teeth are numerous. So let’s explore these compelling reasons and discover how you can regain your complete and beautiful smile!

Reasons to Replace Missing Teeth

1. Preserve your oral health: Missing teeth can lead to a host of dental issues if left untreated. When there’s a gap in your smile, the surrounding teeth may start to shift or tilt, causing misalignment and bite problems. This can result in difficulty with chewing and speaking properly. Additionally, the jawbone underneath the missing tooth area may begin to deteriorate over time due to a lack of stimulation from biting and chewing. By replacing missing teeth, you can maintain proper alignment and prevent further oral health complications.2. Restore your facial structure: Did you know that missing teeth can actually affect the shape of your face? Over time, bone loss in the jaw can cause a sunken appearance or premature aging around the mouth area. By replacing those missing teeth with dental implants or other suitable options, you can help restore volume to your facial structure and achieve a more youthful look.3. Boost self-confidence: A complete smile plays an essential role in boosting self-esteem and confidence levels. If you’re constantly conscious about gaps in your teeth when smiling or talking, it can impact how you perceive yourself and interact with others socially. Replacing missing teeth not only enhances aesthetics but also allows you to feel more comfortable and confident in social situations.4. Improve speech patterns: Missing teeth can significantly affect speech patterns by interfering with the pronunciation of certain sounds like “s” or “th.” The gaps created by missing teeth may cause whistling sounds or slurred speech that could potentially hinder effective communication skills. Restoring these spaces through dental treatments will help improve articulation so that you can speak clearly without any hindrances.5. Maintain overall well-being: It’s important to recognize that oral health is connected to our overall well-being. By replacing missing teeth promptly, you’ll be able to enjoy meals fully and chew food properly, which aids digestion and ensures proper nutrient absorption. Moreover, a healthy mouth promotes better mental health, as the ability to smile and speak confidently can positively impact your emotional wellbeing. 

How to Replace Missing Teeth

When it comes to replacing missing teeth, there are several options available depending on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some of the most common methods for replacing missing teeth:1. Dental implants: Implants are a popular choice because they provide a permanent solution that looks and feels like natural teeth. A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, serving as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant has fused with the bone, a crown or bridge can be attached to complete the restoration.2. Dentures: Dentures have been used for centuries to replace missing teeth and restore proper oral function. They consist of artificial teeth set in a gum-colored base made of acrylic or metal framework. Full dentures replace all of the upper or lower teeth, while partial dentures fill in gaps between existing natural teeth.3. Dental bridges: Bridges are another option for replacing missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to neighboring healthy teeth using crowns or metal frameworks.4. Removable partial dentures: Similar to traditional dentures, removable partial dentures offer a removable alternative for those who still have some remaining natural teeth.5. Implant-supported bridges: If you’re missing multiple adjacent teeth, an implant-supported bridge may be recommended as it provides stability without relying solely on surrounding healthy t

Conclusion

Replacing missing teeth is not just a cosmetic choice but a necessary step for maintaining oral health and overall well-being. From improving your ability to chew and speak properly to preventing the shifting of surrounding teeth and preserving the natural shape of your face, there are several compelling reasons why you should consider replacing your missing teeth.Fortunately, there are various options available for replacing missing teeth that cater to different needs and budgets. Whether it’s dental implants, bridges, or dentures, consulting with a dentist can help you determine the best solution for restoring your smile and enhancing your quality of life.Remember, taking action sooner rather than later is crucial when it comes to replacing missing teeth. Delaying treatment can lead to further dental complications down the line. So don’t hesitate – make an appointment with your dentist today to discuss how you can regain both functionality and confidence by filling those gaps in your smile!Take charge of your oral health journey and start smiling confidently again – because everyone deserves a complete set of pearly whites! Call us to learn more.

The holidays are a magical time filled with laughter, joy, and indulging in delicious treats. We gather with loved ones to create lasting memories and devour scrumptious feasts that leave us feeling satisfied but perhaps not so great for our dental health. Yes, the post-holiday season is when we often find ourselves dealing with pesky dental issues that threaten to dampen our newfound holiday cheer.

Common Dental Issues After the Holidays

After the festive season, many people find themselves dealing with common dental issues. This is not surprising considering the abundance of sugary treats and indulgent meals that are typically enjoyed during this time. However, it’s important to be aware of these issues and take steps to address them promptly.

• One common issue that arises after the holidays is tooth sensitivity. Consuming excessive amounts of sweets and acidic foods can wear down enamel and expose sensitive areas of the teeth. This can lead to discomfort or pain when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet substances.
• Another problem that crops up post-holidays is cavities. The increased consumption of sugary snacks and drinks provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive in the mouth, leading to tooth decay. Cavities need prompt attention from a dentist to prevent further damage.
• Gum inflammation or gingivitis is also frequently seen after the holiday season. Poor oral hygiene practices combined with sugar-laden treats can result in plaque buildup along the gumline, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding gums.
• Bad breath becomes a prevalent issue during this time due to all those rich foods consumed over weeks on end without proper brushing and flossing routines being followed diligently.

It’s essential not to ignore these common dental problems but rather schedule a post-holiday dental checkup as soon as possible! Your dentist will assess your oral health condition thoroughly and provide appropriate treatment if necessary.

Benefits of a Post-Holiday Dental Checkup

A post-holiday dental checkup may not be at the top of your to-do list after the holiday season, but it can actually offer numerous benefits for your oral health. During this festive time, we tend to indulge in sugary treats and neglect our oral hygiene routine, which can lead to a host of dental issues.

• One of the major benefits of a post-holiday dental checkup is early detection and prevention of potential problems. Your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums for any signs of decay, cavities, or gum disease that may have developed during the holidays. By catching these issues early on, you can avoid more extensive treatments down the road.
• Another advantage is professional cleaning. Despite diligent brushing and flossing at home, there are areas in our mouths that are difficult to reach with regular tools. A professional cleaning removes built-up plaque and tartar from those hard-to-reach spots, giving you a fresh start for the new year.
• Additionally, a post-holiday dental checkup allows you to establish good oral health habits moving forward. Your dentist can provide personalized recommendations on proper brushing techniques and suitable toothpaste or mouthwash options based on your specific needs.
• Having a clean bill of oral health after a holiday dental checkup gives you peace of mind, knowing that your teeth and gums are in great shape heading into the new year. It’s an investment in yourself and sets the foundation for maintaining optimal oral health throughout the year.

To learn more habits to improve your oral health, call the Center for Advanced Dentistry or request an appointment online.

Having an attractive, healthy-looking smile is an important part of feeling confident about yourself and your appearance at any age. Often, it isn’t until the adult years that we really begin to appreciate just how important it is. By that time, the idea of wearing metal braces often seems out of place. Because they’re typically worn by preteens and teens, once we’re adults, metal braces can wind up undermining our confidence and interfering with the way we feel about ourselves professionally and socially.

Thankfully, Invisalign® has changed all that. Thanks to the state-of-the-art clear aligner system, Invisalign is helping plenty of adults discreetly straighten their teeth without metal braces. As a leading dental practice in San Jose, California, Center for Advanced Dentistry offers Invisalign treatment for adults as well as teens and preteens. If you’ve been wondering if Invisalign can help improve your smile, here’s what you should know.

Invisalign: A great choice for adults

One of the primary reasons why Invisalign is such a good choice for adults is its clear design. In fact, Invisalign aligners are so clear, they’re almost invisible when they’re in place. With Invisalign, you can straighten your teeth without feeling self-conscious about your appearance and without having your appliances become the center of attention.

That clear design is important, but it isn’t the only reason why adults prefer Invisalign. Because you take your aligners out for meals, there are no dietary restrictions to worry about. Slip your aligners into their protective case, eat whatever you’d like, then slip them back in again (after a quick rinse). That’s especially important for business lunches and evenings out.

Invisalign aligners are also easy to manage. Your schedule is already busy — the last thing you need is a complicated care routine on top of all your other obligations. With Invisalign, all you need to do is brush and floss your teeth like you normally do, then gently brush and rinse your aligners before popping them back in. Plus, you only need to visit the office once every six weeks or so for a quick checkup to make sure your treatment stays on track.

Finally, adults also love Invisalign because their unique SmartTrack® material helps most patients complete treatment more quickly than they could with traditional braces. With traditional metal braces, your treatment might take as long as three years. With Invisalign, many patients complete their treatment in 18 months or less. Of course, your treatment time will depend on your specific needs.

Not just cosmetics

For most people, the most noticeable change that comes from wearing any type of orthodontic appliance is the beautiful smile that results from treatment. Knowing your smile looks its best means you’ll be making a great impression at work, at school, and anywhere else you go. Even though cosmetic enhancement (and improved confidence) is certainly important, it isn’t the only benefit of having Invisalign treatment. Your oral health can improve, too.

Think about it: When your teeth are crooked or poorly aligned, it creates a lot of odd angles and crevices that can be really hard to keep clean. All these tiny areas provide the perfect “foothold” for harmful, decay-causing bacteria. That means that with crooked teeth, you can be at a much higher risk of developing cavities, gum disease, and deep infections.

By straightening your teeth, you make it easier to brush and floss, so it’s a lot harder for tiny food particles and bacteria to get trapped — and that means your risks of decay and disease can decrease, too. That’s especially important as you get older, since cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems tend to become much more common as you age.

Plus, improved tooth alignment also helps maintain a normal bite balance. When your bite isn’t properly aligned, you can wind up with jaw pain, headaches, and a chronic condition called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Straightening your teeth helps restore your normal bite balance, reducing uneven pressure on your jaw joints and preventing uneven tooth wear that can cause damage. In short, investing in a healthier smile now means you can enjoy better oral health as you get older, too.

Learn how Invisalign can help you

A more attractive smile, straighter teeth, greater confidence, and better oral health: That’s a lot of benefits from one treatment system. And that’s a big reason why Invisalign is the choice of so many adults who want to enjoy a lifetime of gorgeous smiles. At Center for Advanced Dentistry, we can help you decide if Invisalign is right for you. To schedule your consultation visit, give us a call at 408-498-9082, or use our online scheduling tool to book an appointment today.