Are routine semiannual dental cleanings enough to make your hair stand on end? If so, discovering you need a tooth pulled may seem like a nightmare.

The reasons for tooth extractions vary between patients. While one may need their wisdom teeth out, another may need an oral surgeon to remedy tooth decay or thin out a cluster of excessive teeth, usually when preparing them for braces. Whatever the reason, we at Smile Perfection offer tooth extraction services in Tucson, and to get you ready, explain how to prepare for tooth extractions below. 

Safety in the Chair

Sharing your full medical history with your oral surgeon is an important way how to prepare for tooth extractions. It’ll help your surgeon take proper precautions, preventing complications. A detailed look at your medical history will also help them prescribe antibiotics or other prescriptions post-surgery that won’t counteract any existing medication you’re taking. 

If you’re on prescription drugs, your surgeon may require you to temporarily cease use since they affect your body negatively during the procedure. For instance, blood thinners cause excessive blood loss during extraction, proving dangerous. It’s best to ask questions during your first consultation to not only grasp the procedure but maintain safety in the chair. 

Comfort in the Chair

Your comfort also affects the way your procedure unfolds. For most, comfort entails listing questions to voice to the oral surgeon during your first consultation. Discussing the procedure, preferences, and concerns, despite how ridiculous you may think they sound, will keep you in the loop and give you confidence in the chair. 

Caring for your oral health in this manner may also be painful. To reduce intense negative feelings, your surgeon will discuss sedation options. Whether it’s anesthesia, laughing gas, numbing gel, or painkillers, relay your success rate with any given option in the past.

While nerves may cause many to not have an appetite before surgery, all patients should refrain from eating for 12 hours before the procedure as a nauseous feeling may arise during surgery. Smoking 24 hours after surgery also leads to a dry socket, which causes slower healing, bacteria growth, and bone infection. 

Post-Surgery Care

How to prepare for tooth extractions means preparing for the aftermath as well. Any form of sedation will affect your reflexes, impairing your ability to drive. Therefore, have a loved one ready to drive you home and possibly stay with you through the night. 

Once home, take prescribed painkillers, if any, and rest your mouth. That means sticking to soft foods to keep your socket wound from bleeding and not spitting or rinsing until the second day of post-treatment. You should also take some time off from work to rest and keep an eye out for side effects such as fever, nausea, and excessive bleeding. 

Schedule for a Stellar Smile 

At Smile Perfection, we want to set your mind at ease. From preparing for a dental appointment to how to prepare for tooth extractions, our professional team will treat you effectively and painlessly. Call our Tucson, AZ, office at 520-293-2166 to request an appointment today!

When you think about cavities, you subconsciously envision damage to the teeth toward the back of your mouth. Can you get cavities in your front teeth? In a word, yes.

As Tucson’s top-rated dental services provider, we’re the right people to listen to on this subject. We’ll provide in-depth coverage of the topic in this article.

What Causes Cavities?

Acids and sugars combine with bacteria in your mouth to form plaque. If the plaque stays long enough due to inadequate brushing and flossing, it will eat away at the enamel. The resulting hole is a cavity. If the damage grows further, it will reach the dentin and, eventually, the pulp chamber triggering a painful infection.

Unfortunately, patients can live with cavities unknowingly. In the early stages, cavities will only show up in x-ray images. However, you’ll start to feel the problem as it expands. Patients living with cavities may find chewing or drinking beverages difficult.

What Causes Cavities in Front Teeth?

Can you get cavities in your front teeth?

Cavities form on the front teeth for the same reasons you’ll find them elsewhere—poor dental hygiene. However, medical conditions and genetics can also increase the risk of developing cavities.

An advanced cavity may leave a brown or gray mark around the front surface of the tooth.

Treatment for Front Teeth Cavities

Dentists treat front teeth cavities in the same way as other cavities. A filling is often the recommended treatment.

Composite resin and porcelain are the best filling materials due to the location of the teeth in your dental structure. These materials will closely match the color of the rest of your tooth. The dentist will drill a hole at the cavity site.

Veneers are the better treatment solutions for large cavities as the material will cover the front tooth completely. However, veneer treatment is more invasive. Your dentist will remove a sizable portion of the enamel before attaching the veneer.

Root canal procedures are common for deep cavities. After the treatment, the dentist may cover the affected tooth with a dental crown. The crowns are similar to fillings and they  also come in materials matching the rest of your tooth structure.

How to Prevent Front Teeth Cavities

You can prevent front teeth cavities by doing the following:

●      Practice excellent oral hygiene. Brush your teeth and floss daily to remove plaque. Always use fluoride toothpaste.

●      Limit your exposure to acidic food and drink. Acidic foods and beverages like sports drinks and citrus fruits can promote cavity growth. When you do consume such foods and beverages, drink quickly to limit your teeth’s exposure to the acids.

●      Visit your dentist regularly. At Smile Perfection, we recommend visiting twice a year to remove plaque and tartar.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Now you know the answer to “can you get cavities in your front teeth?”

If you suspect cavities in your front teeth, schedule a consultation with us as quickly as possible. The dentists at Smile Perfection can help you nip cavities in the bud.

We provide a customized treatment plan for all patients, from veneers to dental sealants. Learn more about dental sealants.

Call Smile Perfection today at 520-293-2166 for cavities treatment in Tucson, Arizona.

Call Smile Perfection at (520) 293-2166 for all your dental needs.

Over the years, more and more myths have arisen regarding dental health. At Smile Perfection, we aim to help every patient achieve optimum oral health with professional dental services and oral health education.

No one knows more about oral health than your local Tucson dentist. Below are some of the most common dental myths to be aware of so you can protect your teeth and gums.

1. Cavities Come from Eating Sugar

One of the most common dental myths out there is that eating sugar causes cavities. However, sugar does not directly cause cavities; bacteria do.

Oral bacteria eat away your enamel by producing harmful acid. Since bacteria thrive with sugar, it can lead to tooth decay if you don’t brush your teeth.

While sugar is not the primary culprit of cavities, it is still not great for your teeth. Instead, think of sugar as the food that oral bacteria consume to grow and spread.

2. Brushing Your Teeth Harder Makes Them Cleaner

Many patients believe that brushing their teeth harder promotes better oral hygiene. However, this will cause more harm than good.

Brushing too aggressively can erode the enamel on your teeth, making them more susceptible to decay or cavities. Gently brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush is ideal for protecting your teeth and maintaining optimum oral health.

3. Charcoal Toothpaste Is Great for Your Teeth

Many patients are turning to charcoal toothpaste for better teeth whitening. Like baking soda, charcoal can remove surface-level stains.

However, it is an absorbent chemical, meaning that it can absorb different nutrients in your mouth. In addition, most charcoal toothpaste doesn’t have fluoride, which is essential to protect tooth enamel.

4. Baby Teeth Don’t Need Professional Check-Ups

Although baby teeth will eventually fall out, it is still crucial to take care of them. Baby teeth are just as susceptible to decay as adult teeth. Not only is this painful, but it can deteriorate your child’s overall oral health.

Routine check-ups are essential for preventing tooth decay, toothaches, and other common and painful problems. In addition, professional dental cleanings and exams help ensure proper dental growth and establish healthy oral hygiene habits.

5. Sugar-Free Gum Can Clean Your Teeth Just as Well as Brushing

While chewing sugar-free gum can be beneficial, it does not clean your teeth as well as a toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

Chewing gum produces saliva, which is crucial for removing food debris and harmful acids from food. However, gum alone can’t remove plaque from your teeth. Brushing at least twice a day is vital for proper clean and healthy teeth.

Schedule Your Next Dental Appointment Today

The dental professionals at Smile Perfection know all about the most common dental myths. We can help you learn more about preparing for a dental appointment and what to do if you have a cavity.

Our goal is to help you avoid potentially harmful habits and help you achieve your best and brightest smile. Call Smile Perfection at (520) 293-2166 to schedule an appointment in Tucson, AZ.

A trip to the dentist is stressful for some people. Anxiety on the day of the appointment can make preparation harder than it should be and may cause you to forget critical prep-related details. It’s best to make a checklist of what you need to do and bring with you.

Here are some tips on how to prepare for a dentist appointment that we at Smile Perfection have put together from our years of experience as Tucson’s go-to dentist.

Preparing for a Dentist Appointment

Here are some important things you need to do:

Confirm Your Appointment

It’s a good idea to call the office 24 hours ahead of time to confirm your appointment. Take note of the address to ensure you know how to get to the office and seek clarifications if necessary. You don’t want to drive in the wrong direction on the day of the appointment.

Understand the Procedure

Are you visiting the dentist for regular cleaning, or do you want to get braces? It’s important to know the procedure and prepare for it. If you know what to expect, you’ll feel less anxious on the day. Also, some procedures may require special preparation, such as avoiding meals for a specified number of hours before the appointment. You’ll get the info you need during the initial consultations.

Clean Your Teeth

When thinking about how to prepare for a dentist appointment, you need to think about your doctor. An appointment with the dentist doesn’t mean you can be lax with your oral hygiene; it’s respectful behavior to brush, floss, and use mouthwash. No dentist wants to spend time cleaning out food particles before getting down to the job.

Watch What You Eat

Similarly, be mindful of what you eat before an appointment. There are meal restrictions on some appointments, but if you’re allowed to eat, it’s best to avoid strong-smelling foods such as fish, garlic, or onion.

Be Punctual

Dentists are very busy. Therefore, it’s best to arrive early for your dental appointment. If you’re late, the dentist might cancel your slot or push it forward to avoid causing inconveniences to other people. You should aim to arrive 10-15 minutes before your appointment time.

What Should You Bring?

Here are the essential items to bring along to your appointment:

Medical History Documents

These documents will give your doctor a quick summary of your medical situation, including existing conditions, your current medications, allergies, procedures you’ve undergone in the past, and more. This will help them determine the dental care approach for you.

You’ll also need to present any recent dental X-rays (not older than six months) and a referral letter from your previous doctor where necessary.

Insurance and Payment Information

If you’re on any dental insurance plan, it’s essential to bring it along to your appointment. The card will be helpful to determine your level of coverage if you need treatment. If you’re not on an insurance plan or want to pay out of pocket, don’t forget to bring cash or a card.

Dental Treatment at Home

The tips above cover how to prepare for a dentist appointment. However, if you can’t leave your home for dental visits or simply prefer to receive treatment at home, you can discuss your options with your dentist. At Smile Perfection, we offer home treatment to our clients. You can learn more about our mobile dentistry solutions or call us at (520) 293-2166 to book a session.

Call (520) 293-2166 for sedation dentistry in Tucson from Smile Perfection.  

When your dentist tells you they need to remove one of your teeth, it can be worrisome. However, dental professionals use top-notch technology to make the process smooth and efficient. 

Tooth removal under sedation eliminates any pain associated with tooth removal. 

Smile Perfection strives to brighten the smiles of the Tucson community with expert dental services, including tooth cleaning, removal, and realignment. With decades of experience, our dentists provide a comfortable setting that removes the stigma people have about a trip to the dentist. 

Why Dentists Remove Teeth  

There are many reasons why your dentist may elect to pull your teeth. 

Decaying Teeth 

If your tooth shows signs of decay, your dentist may recommend pulling it. While it is often the last resort, many patients would rather have their dentist extract their teeth than have a root canal. 

Overcrowding 

Another reason why a dentist may opt for tooth removal under sedation is if your teeth are overcrowded. Overcrowded teeth can cause disturbances, like neck pain, jaw pain, and headaches. 

Teeth Did Not Grow In 

You may have a tooth that never grows to its maximum length. If so, your dentist may recommend pulling it, ensuring that it does not cause discomfort. Dentists call this scenario an impacted tooth. 

Types of Dental Sedation 

There are a few different dental sedation techniques your dentist chooses from. 

Nitrous Oxide 

You may know nitrous oxide sedation as laughing gas. Typically, oral surgeons use this form of sedation for short treatments and procedures. 

You will be aware of your surroundings during nitrous oxide sedation. But, you will not feel any pain during the procedure. 

Oral Sedation 

An oral surgeon may provide you with an oral sedative before your procedure. Usually, a dental professional will utilize this sedation method if you are having your wisdom teeth removed. 

Like nitrous oxide, you will be awake for the oral surgery but not feel much pain. Your dentist will tell you what to expect before the day of your procedure. 

Intravenous Sedation 

Another form of dental sedation is when your oral surgeon uses an IV to put you under. It is an extreme form of sedation that will remove you from consciousness. 

Dental professionals mostly use this sedation treatment on young kids who cannot stay still. You will have no memory of the procedure when you wake up from sedation.

Visit Our Dental Office Today 

No matter which kind of sedation your dentist recommends, you are in good hands with our dental staff. We will ensure that you do not feel a thing during your tooth extractions procedure. 

Smile Perfection can help you through the tooth removal under sedation process. Our Tucson, AZ, office has a calming atmosphere that will ease your nerves during your appointment. If you or a loved one requires dental care, call our dental office at (520) 293-2166. 

If you have questions about eating before dental sedation, refer to our past blog.

For sedation dentistry services in Tucson, AZ, call Smile Perfection at 520-293-2166.

Dental sedation refers to the process of a dental professional administering a sedative before an operation to alleviate dental anxieties. This sedative helps patients relax, allowing the procedure to go smoothly. 

Many patients have questions about the dental sedation process, like “can I eat before dental sedation?” 

Smile Perfection is Tucson’s most trustworthy dental office offering several dental care services such as dental implants, sleep apnea mouthguards, and much more. Our experienced team ensures that you leave our office feeling positive about your dental health. 

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your operation, depending on the type of sedation provided by your dentist. 

Nitrous Oxide 

When patients ask, “can I eat before dental sedation?” it depends on what sedation type their dentist uses during the operation. 

If your procedure requires nitrous oxide, there are no diet restrictions before your appointment. Nitrous oxide is commonly referred to as laughing gas. It is the mildest form of oral sedation that dentists use. 

When you inhale nitrous oxide, you will be aware of your surroundings during the procedure. However, the sedative will relax you to the point of not feeling anxious. 

We recommend eating light before your procedure. This sedative does make some patients nauseous. Therefore, you should keep eating to a minimum until you know how your body reacts to nitrous oxide. 

Oral Sedation 

Oral sedation refers to a dental professional giving a patient a sedative pill before a procedure. Because people react differently to oral medication, advice varies regarding whether or not you should eat beforehand.

You can drink clear liquids leading up to your procedure. For expert advice, consult with your dental professional before your appointment. 

IV Sedation 

The strongest form of sedation is when an oral surgeon uses an IV to sedate a patient. You will be unaware of what is going on in the operating room. 

Typically, your dentist will provide you with dietary limitations leading up to the procedure. In most cases, you cannot eat for up to six hours before your procedure. It is best to show up with an empty stomach. 

Local Anesthesia

Although local anesthesia is not technically a form of sedation, you may have dietary restrictions implemented by your dentist. We recommend eating light, as anesthesia may cause nausea. 

Anesthesia will numb most of the pain during your procedure. You may feel a slight pinch when your dentist injects the numbing agent. Otherwise, you should feel next to nothing. 

Schedule an Appointment Today

We hope we provided an answer to your question, “can I eat before dental sedation?” 

Smile Perfection aims to make you feel as comfortable as possible before dental sedation. Our hospitable customer service staff will answer all your questions before your appointment, relieving any stress you may have about your procedure. 

To schedule a dental appointment with Smile Perfection for yourself or your child, call our Tucson, Arizona office at 520-293-2166. 

We are also available for emergency dental work at any time! Here, you can learn more about dental anesthesia.