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Is Invisalign® Right For Me?

Written by Karen Girard on . Posted in Blog, Cosmetic Dentistry, Orthodontics.

Since Invisalign® technology was developed in 1997, it has transformed over 6 million smiles including 1.4 million teens. By using cutting edge, industry-changing technology patients will undergo a modern, fully digitized experience to help them get the smile they want, the way they want. Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions regarding the Invisalign® treatment process.  

 

What is Invisalign®? 

 

Invisalign® is a virtually invisible way to straighten teeth much like conventional metal braces. Instead of brackets and wires, however, Invisalign® users receive a set of custom-made clear aligners to gradually move teeth into the correct position. As your bite changes, you will replace your aligner with the next in the series which is typically every two weeks. Your orthodontist will schedule regular appointments with you throughout your treatment to monitor your progress.

 

Will Invisalign® work in my day-to-day life? 

 

Invisalign® is incredibly versatile. Unlike traditional metal braces, removable Invisalign aligners can be taken out briefly to enjoy your favorite activities. There are no eating restrictions with Invisalign because the aligners can be removed at mealtimes. They can also be removed for easier brushing and flossing which helps maintain healthy oral hygiene during treatment. Invisalign® patients also experience fewer emergencies and unscheduled appointments because there are no wires or brackets to break. Adults may be more comfortable using Invisalign® aligners because they are virtually undetectable.

 

Does Invisalign® cost more, or take longer than regular braces?

 

In our office, the cost for Invisalign® is the same as the cost of traditional braces, and may also be partially covered by your insurance company if you have orthodontic benefits.  In most cases, the length of treatment for Invisalign® vs traditional braces is also comparable. Aligner changes are done at home, therefore, appointments are less frequent than with traditional braces.

 

Why in-office Invisalign® versus mail-order aligners?

 

Orthodontic treatment involves the movement of biological material, which if not done correctly could lead to potentially irreversible and expensive damage such as tooth and gum loss, changed bites and other issues. Before you consider using a direct-to-consumer orthodontic company, the AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) believes there are a number of factors and questions you may want to consider. You may learn more information on their website.

 

If you are considering Invisalign® to get the smile you’ve always dreamed of, there’s no time like the present to schedule a consultation at Lindner Dental Associates. Once you find out whether or not you are a good candidate for Invisalign, one of our board-certified Orthodontists will help you begin the journey to your perfect smile. Remember, the faster you make your initial appointment, the faster your aligners will be finished for you! Contact us online or call for more info: (603) 624-3900!

How Should I Prepare For My Child’s First Dental Visit?

Written by Karen Girard on . Posted in Blog, Infant Dental Care, Pediatric Dentistry.

Many parents may feel overwhelmed thinking about their child’s first dental visit. By understanding what a first appointment entails and how to prepare for it, we can help eliminate those first visit jitters and make the experience a positive one. This guide will answer some common questions about the preparation and expectations of your child’s first dental visit. 

 

When should I schedule the appointment? 

 

The ADA (American Dental Association) and AAPD (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry) recommend your child see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears, whichever is first. By establishing a dental home early, many dental problems can be avoided such as pacifier teeth or baby bottle decay. Consistent dental visits will instill a sense of security that ensures a child is comfortable to continue oral care as they mature.

 

In addition, helpful tips regarding infant feeding, brushing habits, tooth decay prevention, and general diet can be discussed with the dentist before a potentially larger problem arises.

 

How should I prep my son or daughter? 

 

Have your child lie down and try brushing from overhead. This will help your child prepare for the necessary position in a dental chair as well as allow you to brush more accurately. You may also look for books at your local library that will explore what a visit may look and feel like such as: 

  • The Berenstain Bears Go to the Dentist by Stan and Jan Berenstain
  • Curious George Visits the Dentist by H.A. Rey
  • The Crocodile and the Dentist by Taro Gomi
  • Doctor Desoto by William Steig

 

You may also want to call the dental office and ask if your child can be given a quick tour just before the appointment so you are both familiar with the area your child will be seen in.

 

How should I prep myself? 

 

In addition to getting your child ready for a first dentist appointment, it is a good idea to prepare yourself as well. Ask family and friends for dental professional referrals and make sure to research the dentist/practice you choose. Determine whether a pediatric dentist would be best for your family. Pediatric dentists have extra training to help address the emotional, physical, and behavioral needs of all children. By using child-friendly language, pediatric dentists are able to alleviate the anxiety that children may experience prior to their appointment and deliver great oral care from an early age. 

 

Also, write down any specific questions you have about your child’s dental habits or oral health, so you don’t forget to ask the dentist before you leave the appointment.

Remember, including a dental professional to your child’s wellness regimen and starting your child off with consistent oral care will prepare them for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Our caring, compassionate staff at Lindner Dental Associates will be with you every step of the way. No matter what questions you have, we are here to help. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment or just learning more about our practice, give us a call today at (603)624-3900!

How to Avoid Dental Issues from Prolonged Pacifier Use

Written by Karen Girard on . Posted in Blog, General, Pediatric Dentistry, Uncategorized.

Often times during infancy, a pacifier may be the only thing keeping you sane. Infants can benefit from a pacifier early on (0-12 months) to help them self soothe before and during sleep. It is important to understand, however, that little ones should be weaned from their pacifiers as soon as possible in order to avoid bite problems and other oral issues (sometimes referred to as pacifier teeth). The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends children should stop using a pacifier by age 2. This brief guide features key information about the dental problems that can occur from excessive and prolonged pacifier use and helpful tips to prevent them. 

 

What are the signs of pacifier teeth?

 

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), there are several possible indicators that a child is developing pacifier teeth. These include teeth that are growing in crooked, an irregular bite such as an overbite or underbite, noticeably protruding front teeth, changes to tooth position and jaw alignment and modifications to the roof of the mouth. Often parents may notice the existence of pacifier teeth and/or other oral issues, not realizing they may be related to pacifier usage. It is very important to schedule regular checkups with a dental professional so these problems are recognized and addressed. 

Pacifier versus thumb-sucking? 

 

The AAPD does encourage infant pacifier usage over thumb sucking as a pacifier is easier to control when the time comes to discourage the habit, although both will cause oral issues if usage is prolonged. And pacifiers certainly do have their benefits. For infants who need extra soothing, pacifiers provide the perfect comfort and reassurance. Pacifiers can also help with pain management, reduce the risk of SIDS (according to the American Academy of Family Physicians) and can help shorten hospital stays for premature babies by teaching tube-fed infants how to use a bottle. Although there are several positives to using a pacifier, it is strongly encouraged to wean your child from the pacifier by age 2 in order to avoid the above-mentioned dental problems and possible orthodontic correction. 

How do I break the pacifier habit? 


Praise and encouragement are the best ways to discourage a pacifier habit. Praise your baby or toddler when a pacifier is not used, and provide a reward such as a star chart or a tooth-friendly prize for each night that goes by pacifier-free. Avoid stressful situations as much as possible if a pacifier is used to cope when your child is anxious or uncertain. More importantly, don’t punish or scold your child for using a pacifier; this may encourage its usage even more. Continue to carefully care for your baby’s teeth and gums, wiping gums after each infant feeding and brushing teeth twice a day.

 

If you are concerned that your child may be developing pacifier teeth or other dental issues, schedule an appointment today with one of our pediatric dentists at Lindner Dental Associates. Our professionals will assure their young patients’ teeth are coming in properly and can provide parents and caregivers with helpful tips to avoid problems caused by prolonged pacifier usage. Contact us online or call today (603)624-3900!

 

Commonly Asked Questions About Dental Crowns

Written by Karen Girard on . Posted in Blog, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental crowns, General, News, Orthodontics, Uncategorized.

Dental crowns serve many purposes and can be a reasonable and simple alternative to other dental procedures.  But what is a dental crown and why would you ever need one?

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over the tooth to cover it. The crown fully encases the visible part of the tooth. The main purpose of a crown is to strengthen a weakened tooth or improve its appearance. Crowns can be made from several types of materials which can often be colored to mimic your natural teeth. Your dentist will consider several factors before deciding on the material used such as the location and color of the tooth, its function, and the position of the gum tissue.

Why is it needed?

      You may need a crown if you:

  • have a large cavity that a filling cannot fix (at least half the width of the tooth)
  • need a restored tooth strengthened from a root canal procedure 
  • have a worn tooth that needs to be capped from excessive grinding 
  • need to secure a dental bridge in place
  • need to strengthen and protect a cracked tooth 
  • want to enhance your smile by covering a misshapen or discolored tooth.

What are the benefits of getting a dental crown?

There are several benefits to having a dental crown placed. Crowns that correctly fit over your tooth can be long-lasting and beautiful when properly cared for, making them a reasonable and financially practical choice. Crowns can secure together cracked teeth which can prevent or prolong extractions. They can also relieve uncomfortable symptoms that are experienced when using the damaged tooth by providing chewing support.

Will I have crown sensitivity?

Crown sensitivity is very common for about 1-2 weeks and usually diminishes over time. Sensitivity depends on several factors such as depth of decay and the severity of tooth fracture. Typically, patients are sensitive to hot and cold liquids/foods as well as minor gum tenderness. If your crown was placed too high, you may experience pain when you bite that lasts longer than the average 1-2 weeks. This can be fixed relatively easily with a simple adjustment by your dentist.  Sometimes sensitivities can be caused by surrounding teeth rather than the crown itself. 

It is important to have your dentist check all your teeth prior to and after crown placement to make sure this is not the case.

 

Further questions? Don’t hesitate to contact our General Dentists, specializing in Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry at Lindner Dental Associates, and find out what is the best crown option for you! 

Parents’ Guide to Baby Teeth

Written by Karen Girard on . Posted in Blog, General, Infant Dental Care, News, Oral Hygiene, Orthodontics, Uncategorized.

Children’s smiles certainly light up a room, but it is not uncommon to notice imperfections in those mouths! Don’t be alarmed, baby teeth come in all sizes, shapes, and slants. They are a critical component of every child’s development and more often than not there are logical reasons why baby teeth form the way they do. Check out this guide to common toddler teeth concerns.

Spaced Out Teeth

Since baby teeth are small and less numerous than adult teeth, it is common for your child to have gaps between them. Toddlers only have 20 primary baby teeth while adults have 28 to 32. It is normal and actually healthy for kids to have spaces between their baby teeth. Parents may be concerned that their child’s teeth will remain gapped throughout adulthood. But, as soon as those pearly whites fall out, adult teeth will come into place having plenty of room to fill in those gaps nicely. Think of the spaces between your child’s teeth as placeholders for the bigger and stronger permanent teeth that will be coming in between age 6-12.

Crowded Teeth

Overcrowding in the mouth is common and can be caused by many different factors including thumb sucking, irregular tooth size, cleft lip or palate, jaw injury, or extra teeth. Indications of overcrowding could include an adult tooth erupting before baby teeth fall out or a permanent tooth growing in crooked.  Overcrowding can be treated in several ways, many times with simple intervention if treatment is started early. Early intervention may reduce the need for major orthodontic treatment later in life. Depending on the severity of the overcrowding, a longer course of action may be necessary. Regardless of the suggested treatment, it is important that the underlying cause of overcrowding is addressed. Ensuring your children’s teeth and supporting bones stay healthy, will help enhance the durability and longevity of all their teeth. Remember, always be diligent about brushing and flossing as cavities and gum disease are more prone to occur in crowded mouths.

Crooked Teeth 

Crooked baby teeth are common and not cause for immediate concern. Toddlers with crooked baby teeth won’t necessarily have their permanent teeth grow in crooked. A baby’s jaw changes excessively during the early years of life, and permanent teeth tend to grow in differently than baby teeth. The most important thing to do is focus on excellent infant oral care by making sure their teeth are being cleaned after feedings to prevent cavities. Babies should be seen at age 1 for their first dental visit to establish a dental home.

 

Discolored Teeth 

If your child’s teeth seem to appear discolored, make sure you and your child are brushing twice a day and after sugary snacks or drinks. The enamel of baby teeth is thinner than that of adult teeth, and it is much easier for plaque to accumulate. Keep in mind that baby teeth are whiter than adult teeth so when adult teeth begin to come in, the side by side comparison of the two can appear more pronounced.

 

It’s important to start your child off with a comprehensive oral hygiene routine including dental visits from one year of age. From infant to teen, there are steps you and your dentist can take to ensure your child will continue on a path of successful oral health. 

 

If you have any questions or want to book an appointment with one of our board-certified pediatric dentists at Lindner Dental Associates, please call us at 603-624-3900!

What You Need to Know About Digital Impressions

Written by Karen Girard on . Posted in Blog, Braces.

Say goodbye to goopy impression material, and trays that cause gagging.   Say hello to modern day digital dentistry. Our practice is proud to offer you iTero impressionless scanning technology, which can be used for Invisalign®, appliances, and retainers.

iTero Digital Scanner

The iTero digital scanner is a light, handheld tool that takes 3D images of your teeth and mouth. It takes up to 6,000 frames per second and can generate a detailed model of your entire mouth on a computer screen. This ensures your orthodontist gets a complete image of your teeth.

The scanning device, also known as a wand, is easy to use and extremely comfortable for patients. The images it produces can be rotated and zoomed in to get an in-depth look at your teeth.

 

How It Works

Our certified orthodontic assistant will wave the wand across your teeth, scanning the inside of your palate and dental areas. iTero technology allows us to scan in motion and continuously move the wand throughout your mouth, capturing images as it goes.

The software automatically detects where the scanner is and when it changes position. Digital scans are developed immediately and the images of your teeth, palate, and mouth appear on the computer screen as soon as they are scanned in. The orthodontic assistant can monitor these images while scanning to make sure they digitally record every part of your mouth, ensuring a more accurate model of the teeth the first time, and eliminating the need to take multiple impressions. 

Advantages of Digital Scanning

Cleaner – Without any sticky impression material and large trays used to make clay impressions, digital scanning is much cleaner than alternative methods. Certified orthodontic assistants wield the wand easily in your mouth so you don’t have to worry about any gagging, uncomfortable tastes, or chalky residue left behind.

 

Faster – Digital scanning is also much faster than impressions. Because of the real-time scanning, images are available immediately for the orthodontist to see and review.

In the past, the putty molds would have to harden and dry before the orthodontist could even examine them. This could take hours, and sometimes after they were dry, they would have to be redone to create cleaner molds.

Now, a full model can be scanned and uploaded in a matter of minutes, giving you the ability to see your teeth instantly in 3D, improving communication during the consultation and treatment process.

 

More Reliable – Digital scans are much more reliable than putty molds. The digital software accounts for irregularities in the enamel of your teeth and gives a higher quality view of your mouth. It also captures images in color, which can make it easier to tell the difference between gum and tooth structures. The digital data saves every two seconds and is backed up to the hard drive so you don’t have to worry about losing your scans or patient history.  The image quality of digital scans is superior to conventional impressions, resulting in improved treatment, better fitting appliances, and a more comfortable patient experience 

 

Use with Invisalign – The iTero scanner can also be used with Invisalign products. This scanner is linked to the Invisalign software that creates aligners from digital scans. These images create a customized treatment plan for each patient. This streamlines the process, allowing us to transmit your models immediately to Invisalign electronically, and get your trays in our office faster.

 

Need for traditional Impressions – In some cases, traditional impressions may still be needed depending on what type of appliance or retainer is needed, but they are definitely being used less and less!

If you have any questions about digital scanning or want to know more, call us today at (603) 624-3900.

Do I Have a Bite Problem?

Written by Karen Girard on . Posted in Blog, Braces, Cosmetic Dentistry, General, Orthodontics, Uncategorized, Wisdom Teeth.

As the weather warms up and we dust off the grill, we look forward to summer BBQs and grilled corn on the cob.  Ever thought about how we chew these delicious treats?

 

Occlusion is a fancy word to describe the way in which your upper and lower teeth come together when you are chewing. If your bite doesn’t fit together properly, we call it a “malocclusion.”  There are 5 major categories of malocclusion or bite problems that we commonly see in children and adults. At Lindner, we work with patients to “take a bite” out of each of these orthodontic issues before they get worse!

Crossbite

 

A crossbite is where the upper teeth fit inside or behind the lower teeth.  This may be caused by misalignment of teeth, crowding, or a discrepancy in the size of the upper and lower jaw bones.  Possible consequences of this if not corrected are: wearing down of the outer layer of tooth enamel, and shifting the jaw to one side in order to “find your bite.”  Repetitive shifting to one side can eventually lead to asymmetrical jaw growth and TMJ problems.

 

Open bite

 

All of the upper and lower teeth should have contact when you bite together. There should even be some overlap of the front teeth when the back teeth are touching.  If the teeth do not overlap in the front, we call that an anterior open bite. This may be caused by habits like thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, mouth breathing, or sometimes it is due to a jaw growth discrepancy.  If the open bite is not corrected, this may lead to excessive enamel wear on the teeth that are in contact. It may be difficult to bite into certain foods, like an apple or a sandwich with an open bite.

Deep bite

 

When the bite is closed, the upper teeth cover the lower teeth too much.  A deep bite is often associated with increased enamel wear on the lower front teeth due to excessive contact.  If severe, the upper teeth may be rubbing against the lower gums and cause gum recession of the lower teeth. Sometimes the lower teeth can pinch the roof of the mouth, leading to swelling and irritation.

Protrusion

 

The protrusion is another way to describe the upper teeth that are too far forward or stick out.  This may be due to the position of the upper jaw, the angulation of the teeth, or a combination of both. Sometimes this may be associated with a prior habit like thumb sucking. If not corrected, the upper teeth may be more prone to injury during a fall.  If severe, it can also be uncomfortable to fully close the mouth and lips around the teeth leading to dry mouth and increased susceptibility to cavities.

Crowding

 

If the teeth are larger in size than the amount of space available for them we see crowding.  Crowding results in teeth that are overlapping, rotated or crooked. Excess crowding can make it difficult to clean in between the teeth, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

 

Many of these problems will not correct themselves, and if left untreated can get worse over time. Many times, bite problems are best treated in a child who is still growing. The goal of orthodontic treatment is to create a healthy bite where the teeth line up and the bite forces are distributed evenly throughout the mouth. If you have concerns about your bite, call at 603.624.3900 or contact online to schedule a free consultation with one of our friendly orthodontists at Lindner Dental Associates.

 

4 Commonly Asked Questions to Pediatric Dentist

Written by Karen Girard on . Posted in Blog, Pediatric Dentistry.

When it comes to our children, there can never be enough preparedness or information. We want to make sure our children are starting off on the right path and we can provide knowledgeable answers to their questions. In order to do this, it’s best to equip ourselves with reliable information. Below we have included a list of common questions about children’s dental health and some good, simple answers for parents and children alike:

 

When is a good time for a first appointment?

 

The ADA and AAPD recommend your child see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears, whichever is first. Caring for your child’s primary teeth is important for so many reasons. Primary teeth aid in speech development, help foster good nutrition by proper chewing and most importantly save space for adult teeth. Appointments at an early age can help the dentist determine your child’s risk of decay and could help prevent more complex or painful situations.

 

Why should you go to a kid-friendly dentist?

 

Pediatric dentists have extra training to help address the emotional, physical, and behavioral needs of all children. By using child-friendly language, our doctors are able to alleviate the anxiety that children may experience prior to their appointment and deliver the best oral care. Our pediatric patients leave with a healthy smile and positive attitude towards future dental care. Including a pediatric dental professional to your child’s wellness regimen will prepare them for a lifetime of excellent oral health.

When should my child start flossing?

 

You’ll want to make sure that by the age of four years old you are flossing your children’s teeth. This will help rid the teeth of any lodged food that might have become stuck during a meal. However, by the time your child has reached the age of eight years old they should begin to take on this responsibility themselves. It is important, however, to monitor their flossing habits to make sure that they are properly flossing their teeth to prevent gum damage.

What dietary effects might I consider?

 

What we eat substantially affects our health, development, and life in general. Your oral hygiene is no different. Make sure your child is making healthy choices when snacking. Foods with lots of sugar and/or starch will lead to decay and other dental issues which can adversely affect their overall health. If they do consume these types of snacks, encourage them to properly brush their teeth afterward. Check with your child’s dentist to make sure they are receiving the proper amount of fluoride, which will help reinforce enamel and maintain the integrity of their teeth at a vulnerable age.

 

Overall, sticking to a regular brushing and flossing schedule will do wonders for your child’s current and future dental health. Any specific questions should be addressed with your pediatric dentist. Don’t wait for any issues to arise – schedule an appointment with your pediatric dentist at Lindner Dental Associates!

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