Dentures and Dental Implants Seattle

  More than 1 million Americans are diagnosed with cancer each year and many of them will develop problems with their oral health as a result of their cancer treatment. While it’s natural that they’ll be focused on their cancer treatment, it’s important not to overlook the importance of a dental examination as part of the process of maintaining overall health. For example, radiation therapy of the head and neck area may lead to certain complications such as dry mouth, sensitive lesions in the oral cavity, hypersensitive teeth, rapid tooth decay and difficulty swallowing. Chemotherapy and other medication can also have significant effects in the mouth. To help prevent, minimize and manage such problems, the dentist and oncologist can work together  before and during cancer treatment. Many medications lead to dry mouth, which can lead to a higher risk of gum disease and other problems. The dentist may therefore recommend a saliva replacement, an artificial saliva that is available over-t

Advancements in dental techniques and the increased focus on preventive dentistry means older adults are keeping their natural teeth longer than ever before. A survey by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research showed that the rate of toothlessness in the 55 to 64 age group has dropped 60 percent since 1960. Whatever your age, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene at home and to visit your dentist regularly. A few simple steps can help you maintain good oral health throughout your life. Plaque, the sticky, colorless layer of bacteria that causes tooth decay and gum disease, can build up quickly on the teeth of older adults, particularly when they neglect oral hygiene. This can increase the risk for tooth decay and periodontal disease. So it’s important to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners. Regular dental checkups are also an important part of caring for your teeth. This c

X-rays are extremely valuable for helping dentists identify issues that may not show up on normal oral examination. The three most common types of dental X-rays are the bitewing, periapical and panoramic X-rays. Panoramic X-rays give a broad overview of the entire mouth – supplying information about the teeth, upper and lower jawbone, sinuses, and other hard and soft tissues of the head and neck. Unlike other X-rays, where the film is placed inside the patients mouth, the panoramic film is contained in a machine that moves around the patient’s head. So they are very easy to use. Panoramic X-rays are often used to check wisdom teeth but they will also reveal deep cavities and gum disease. They are also useful to help patients with past or present jaw problems or those who require full or partial removable dentures, dental implants, or braces. They can also be valuable in assisting people who are suspected of having oral cancer or have had recent trauma to the face or teeth. Panoramic X-

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important that you let your dentist know so that they can give you the best care possible. As more than 15 million Americans have diabetes, your dentist will be familiar with the issues and will give you the specialist care you need. This is important because diabetes can lower your resistance to infection and slow the healing process. It’s important to tell your dentist: – If you have been diagnosed with .diabetes – If the disease is under control – If there has been any other change in your medical history – Names of all prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking The most common oral health problems associated with diabetes are: – Tooth decay – Periodontal (gum) disease – Salivary gland dysfunction – Fungal infections – Infection and delayed healing – Taste impairment If you have regular dental checkups – and keep your dentist informed about your status – they’ll be able to help you reduce and manage these risks.