Teeth Cleaning, Katy, TX

Posted on August 15, 2012 by Katy Family Dentists

If you’re considering scheduling an appointment for teeth cleaning in the Katy area, let Katy Family Dentists fill you in on what will happen during your check up, why it’s necessary to have one, and how routine cleanings will keep your smile sparkling.

TEETH CLEANING AT KATY FAMILY DENTISTS

We underscore the importance of cleanings at Katy Family Dentists because they rid your teeth of plaque, therefore keeping your gums and teeth free from disease.

During your initial cleaning, an ultrasonic instrument may be used to knock off larger deposits of tartar from your teeth which are then rinsed away with a stream of water. Your dental hygienist will follow up with what is known as a “scaler” to remove tartar from your gum line. Polishing your teeth is the next step and involves your hygienist using a slow speed hand piece that spins prophylaxis paste (a gritty toothpaste like substance) onto your teeth. Your hygienist will finish with a flossing and may apply fluoride to keep you teeth healthy and strong, especially if they have been weakened by tartar and plaque build up.

TEETH EXAMINATION AT KATY FAMILY DENTISTS

In addition to a cleaning, your dentist will also examine your teeth during your check up, searching for signs of decay using a metal probe and angled mirror. He checks for gum swelling, and any discrepancies in how your upper and lower teeth come together as well as the condition of your teeth. A check up is the perfect place for your dentist to diagnose any underlying dental issues and to have them treated so you can leave the dentist chair with a smile on your face!

SCHEDULE YOUR TEETH CLEANING AT KATY FAMILY DENTISTS TODAY

Teeth cleanings are the staple of your six month dental check up and for good reason. They’re necessary to find early signs of disease like oral cancer or other dental issues that need to be addressed immediately, so don’t wait! If you’re in need of a teeth cleaning and examination, be sure to request an appointment with us today!

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Dental Digital X-Rays, Katy, TX

Posted on July 25, 2012 by Katy Family Dentists

If you’ve been searching for an easier way to get an in depth look at your oral health in the Katy area, look no further than Katy Family Dentists. We offer digital x-rays versus conventional x-rays that are far less convenient for both patient and staff. But there are other benefits to digital x-rays that will make your experience at the dentist a satisfying one.

TAKING DIGITAL X-RAYS IS A HEALTHIER PROCESS

Sitting in the dental chair with film in your teeth while a technician takes pictures of your mouth is not always the most relaxing experience. But the worst part of taking conventional x-rays is the amount of radiation needed to produce images of your mouth’s interproximal areas (between your teeth).

Digital x-rays use almost half the amount of conventional x-rays which means less chance of contracting harmful health problems from radiation exposure, a definite plus!

DIGITAL X-RAYS OFFER A BETTER VIEW OF YOUR TEETH

For all of the effort it takes to create a conventional x-ray of your teeth, the end product leaves much to be desired. If the film doesn’t turn out quite right, the process must start all over again and even if it is produced correctly, the quality of the captured image is lacking. With digital x-rays, the image can be enlarged, brightened and clarified so you can catch a glimpse of your pearly whites right along with your doctor. Because your dentist gets a much better view of your mouth’s inner workings, he can diagnose problems in their earlier stages.

LESS DISCOMFORT WITH DIGITAL X-RAYS!

In addition to the health benefits, digital x-rays just make life easier. Since you spend less time waiting for the results, they’re quicker so you can be out the door showing the world your smile in no time!

For more information about digital x-rays please contact us or book an appointment.

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Tongue Piercings and Dental Health, Katy, TX

Posted on March 14, 2012 by Katy Family Dentists

Tongue piercings: Dentists have noticed this fad is especially popular with teens and those in their twenties — in Katy and around the world. But as common as tongue and lip piercings (also known as oral piercings) are becoming, there are risks involved.

Make an informed decision before you pierce:

Unsterilized instruments can transmit Hepatitis B and HIV during oral piercings.
Your dentist may detect other infections that occur after oral piercings due to bacteria in the mouth. For instance, tongue swelling, difficulty in swallowing, or difficulty breathing may result from infection.
Intense pain (neuralgia) and blood loss may result due to the major blood vessels of the tongue as well as an abundance of nerve endings.
Mouth jewelry, especially tongue barbells, have been known to chip teeth. Over time, even the fillings and crowns that repair the initial injury will also have to be replaced.
Mouth jewelry can erode the gums. In fact, periodontists have had to correct gum trauma caused by rubbing barbells.
Jewelry can interfere with x-rays.
Jewelry can unscrew inside the mouth and become lodged in the throat.
Jewelry that unscrews can also pass through the system, or, in a worse-case scenario, tear the lining of the intestine.
Jewelry may unscrew and lodge in the lung, requiring removal by bronchoscope.
Lip piercings can rub away gum tissue and require gum surgery to avoid tooth loss.
Tongue and lip piercings can also interfere with the ability to eat and speak.

Learn from the experts:

For more information, visit the American Dental Association and the Texas Department of State Health Services

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Invisalign at Katy Family Dentists

Posted on February 24, 2012 by Katy Family Dentists

What’s one of the most popular treatments at Katy Family Dentists? Hint: What’s clear, nearly undetectable, and useful for correcting spaced teeth, crowded teeth, crossbites, overbites and underbites?

Answer: Invisalign!

That’s right – Katy Family Dentists offers Invisalign, the popular clear aligning system that work wonders on a variety of dental issues. The “Three C’s” — comfort, convenience and confidence — are major points in favor of Invisalign for teens and adults.

Rather than obvious brackets and wire braces, Invisalign is virtually invisible and made of plastic. Katy Family Dentists can guide patients through the additional benefits of Invisalign, including the relative freedom of food choices, easy cleaning aspects, and the ultimate goal — properly aligned teeth. Dr. Ross and Dr. Gutierrez care very much about your oral health and constantly stay on the cutting edge of technology, treatments and medical research. We want you to stay informed and invite you to follow our blog for the latest news on oral health and wellness.

The American Dental Association is another excellent source of information regarding the link between oral health and healthy lives. The Invisalign website also offers great information on the health benefits of alignment and modern teeth straightening.

A confident smile and healthy teeth are possible! Call 281-398-3432 today for your consultation and see for yourself what Invisalign can do for you!

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Osteoporosis and Jaw Bone Disease

Posted on February 6, 2012 by Katy Family Dentists

We’ve all seen the Boniva commercials and spokesperson Sally Fields advocating on behalf of bone supplements for women. Fosamax, Actonel, Atelvia, Didronel and Boniva are prescribed to treat osteoporosis, Paget’s disease, certain cancers or other conditions. Are you taking these types of supplements? If so, your dentist needs to know for the sake of your oral health, especially that of the jaw bone.

Tell Your Dentist
Although it may seem like drudgery, the forms your dentists asks you to read and fill out are actually quite important. They serve as memory prompts to help patients disclose all their medications, conditions and symptoms. What many may not realize is that supplements such as Boniva can affect your dental treatment plan. Your dentist needs to know about these and any other type of medications in order to make decisions regarding your oral health. Here’s why:

Bone Supplements and ONJ
According to the American Dental Association:
“These medications have been associated with a rare but serious condition called osteonecrosis (OSS-tee-oh-ne-KRO-sis) of the jaw (ONJ) that can cause severe damage to the jawbone. While osteonecrosis of the jaw can occur spontaneously, it more commonly occurs after dental procedures that affect the bone or associated tissues (for example, pulling a tooth). Your dentist can tell you if the proposed treatment involves these tissues.”
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The ADA also warns of symptoms which include:

pain, swelling, or infection of the gums or jaw
injured or recently treated gums that are not healing
loose teeth
numbness or a feeling of heaviness in the jaw
exposed bone

Should You Discontinue Taking Boniva?
The ADA does not recommend that you discontinue taking supplements prescribed by a physician but does recommend you consult all your healthcare providers (dentist, physician, oncologist) for an overall treatment plan that targets your specific needs. Doctors often collaborate and coordinate between one another regarding the best course of treatments. Again, disclosing any medications and symptoms to your dentist is the best way to ensure your oral health is addressed optimally.

We are Here to Help:
Dr. Ross and Dr. Aguilar care very much about your oral health and constantly stay on the cutting edge of technology, treatments and medical research. We want you to stay informed, as well!

By first disclosing your conditions, symptoms and all your medications (both prescribed and over the counter), you help the team at Katy Family Dentists to oversee an optimum dental treatment plan customized specifically for you. Trust us for preventative maintenance, proactive treatments and the best in dental care.

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