Archive for the ‘Dental Health’ Category

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Willowbrook Dental Care on Jaw Bone Deterioration

Wednesday, January 13th, 2010

Houston Jaw Bone Deterioration To remain dense, your jaw bone requires the continual stimulation and pressure of chewing, biting and talking. Each of your teeth has a root structure attached to the surrounding bone material. As each tooth absorbs the forces of everyday mouth function, it stimulates the bone to which the root is attached.

When a tooth is extracted, the jaw bone that previously surrounded the root structure begins to recede. Though tooth extraction is often the only possible treatment for our Houston patients with tooth damage beyond repair, every effort should be made to preserve the root structure.

Fortunately, tooth implants provide a new root which keeps the surrounding bone healthy and strong. A dental implant consists of a titanium post which is placed in the jaw bone. It replaces the original root and eventually integrates into the surrounding bone. After the implant has been placed and the surrounding bone has healed and meshed with the implant, a post is inserted into the implant. The new artificial tooth, or crown, is then attached to the post. Implant restoration is a safe and effective treatment for tooth loss.

To learn more about dental implants, call Dr. J. Scott Anderson at 281-469-8026. The friendly professionals at Willowbrook Dental Care in Houston provide world-class dental treatment for patients in Houston and the surrounding areas.

Achieving Health and Beauty with Modern Dentistry

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Wisdom Teeth And Your Houston Dentist

Wednesday, December 30th, 2009

Wisdom Teeth And Your Houston Dentist Wisdom teeth are the last of the molars (grinding teeth) to erupt from the gum. They usually appear in the late teens and early twenties. Not all people develop these teeth while others have from one to four.

Though some people never experience any problems with these extra molars, many times wisdom teeth can create serious dental complications. If the wisdom teeth do not have the room to develop and erupt normally, they are referred to as impacted wisdom teeth. An impacted tooth may never emerge from the bone and gum, emerge only partially, or come in sideways.

Impacted teeth can damage the adjacent molar, cause infection or trigger gum disease. Sometimes these problems cause no noticeable symptoms for a period of time. To prevent these serious complications, wisdom teeth are often removed.

Wisdom teeth symptoms include pain when opening mouth, gum swelling, bad breath, and pain when chewing. These indicators can be constant or intermittent.

To learn more about wisdom teeth extraction, call 281-469-8026 to schedule an exam at Willowbrook Dental Care. Our technically advanced and friendly dental team can recommend the best course of treatment.

Willowbrook Dental Care

Providing comprehensive dental care for Houston and Houston area families since 1988.

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Houston Dentists And Your Mouth Sores

Friday, December 18th, 2009

Houston Dentists And Your Mouth Sores

As your local Houston dentist, one of my roles is to help you take care of your mouth. Sometimes mouth sores can be an issue, and while Houston dentists often defer to an oral surgeon for extreme cases, we can help you make an assessment.

If you live in the Houston area and have a mouth sore that lasts more than a week or two; come and see me. Mouth sores can be an indicator of disease, and an early assessment is the best bet. A better understanding of your mouth sores can lead quickly to comfort and a resolution. If necessary, treatment and pain relief can be offered.

There are two common types of mouth sores that are common in the Houston area; canker sores and cold sores.

Canker sores are small ulcer-like sores with a white or gray base and a red border. They are found on the inside of the mouth and while they are not contagious, they can be painful. Typically a canker sore heals in a week or two. Antimicrobal mouth-rinses, over-the-counter topical anesthetics, and avoiding spicy and acidic foods may offer you temporary relief while your sore is healing.

The cause of a canker sores is not certain. Possible explanations range from a cut on the inside the mouth, and reactions to extreme temperatures or acids from food or drink, to fatigue, stress, and allergies. Some studies point to bacteria or viruses, or combinations of all these factors.

Cold sores, also called fever blisters or Herpes Simplex, are groups of fluid-filled blisters that often appear around the lips, sometimes appearing under the nose or around the chin. Cold sores are contagious and painful, but usually heal in about a week. Some over-the-counter anesthetics may provide relief. There are some antiviral drugs on the market that have shown promise in reducing outbreaks, but there is currently no known cure. The initial infection, known as primary herpes, often occurs before adulthood. Once the virus infects you, it may stay in your body and remain inactive or cause occasional cold sore outbreaks. Outbreaks may be triggered by a fever, sunburn, skin abrasions, stress, or exposure to extremes in temperature.

As your Houston dentist, I can’t do much to stop canker sores or cold sores in your mouth. I can discuss the health of your mouth, and examine any causes that make your mouth sore. In some cases a change in the way you care for your mouth can reduce the chances of getting mouth sores. If you are in the Houston, and would like to speak with a dental professional about mouth sores, area give us a call at Willowbrook Dental Care.

Our number is 281-469-8026.

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Houston, Texas Residents Visit the Dentist

Sunday, December 6th, 2009

Houston, Texas Residents Visit the Dentist

Whether you have lived in Texas for a long time, or just moving in to the Houston area; taking care of your teeth eventually involves a visit to the dentist. We are Willowbrook Dental Care located at 17350 State Highway 249, Ste. 200, in Houston, Texas, and our specialty is cosmetic dentistry.

You can reach Willowbrook Dental Care by calling 281-469-8026.

Going to the dentist for the first time in Houston, or if you have not been for while, can be an unsettling experience for both kids and adults. The very idea of a ‘dentist’ seems to hold negative connotation for many people. If you are an adult who is moving to the Houston area, or your child is preparing to visit the dentist for the first time, here are a few tips that may help ease you into regular dental checkups and put you on the path toward increased oral health and wellness.

Choose an Houston dentist who is appropriate for your needs. When you meet your new Houston dentist for the first time, make an effort to ask questions about the care you will receive. Ask questions that are relevant to your situation including questions about experience, age range of patients, and recommended procedures for any conditions you may have. Get to know your Houston dentist so you feel comfortable with the care you will receive.

Introduce yourself to your Houston dentist and get to know the office staff. Visiting the dentist in Houston will seem less of a chore when you feel you have trusted friends who are there to help.

Be prepared to provide your Houston dentist with information. Whether you are experiencing specific pain at that moment, or anticipating a problem, be sure to discuss everything with your dentist. Many patients become intimidated in the office environment and avoid expressing pain or discussing issues. As your dentist, I need to know everything you are experiencing and will be better prepared to help as you ask questions and express your concerns.

I understand that everyone is unique; what works for one person may not work for another. You know what works best for you, and the best way to have a good experience with a Houston dentist is to communicate. Let me know what you are experiencing so that I can make adjustments and help you feel more comfortable and secure.

At Willowbrook Dental Care our technically advanced and friendly staff will work to make your dental experience a pleasant one. We know it can be frightening to visit the dentist for the first time, or after a long while. We’ll do what we can to make you feel comfortable, secure, and among caring friends.

If you are in Houston, Texas and are ready to visit the dentist again, give us a call at 281-469-8026, or stop by to meet us; we’re excited to meet you.

-Achieving Health and Beauty with Modern Dentistry

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Overbites And Underbites in Houston

Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009

Overbites And Underbites When the upper part of the jaw and the lower part of the jaw are not the same size, bite problems can occur. When the lower jaw is smaller than the upper jaw, it is called an overbite. When the reverse is true, it is called an underbite. Another related alignment disorder is called a crossbite. Crossbites occur when lower teeth are in the wrong position. They may be incorrectly positioned sideways, forward or backward.

Malocclusion (literally ‘bad bite’) is the term used for all types of bite problems including overbites, underbites and crossbites. Jaw alignment disorders can cause a range of problems and often prohibit proper chewing and/or swallowing. Teeth can shift around in the mouth, causing even more discomfort or difficulty. Gum disease and tooth decay are also harder to prevent because proper oral hygiene can be difficult with a malocclusion. TMJ disorder can develop over time. Distorted facial shape and unattractive teeth are often the most noticeable and troubling issues for those affected.

Fortunately, there are a variety of effective treatments for bite problems. If you suspect your child has a bite misalignment, it is especially important to have them examined as early as possible. By starting early, you can make sure they avoid years of pain and self-consciousness.

Call Willowbrook Dental Care at 281-469-8026. Dentist Dr. J. Scott Anderson is experienced in diagnosing bite disorders in patients of all ages. We can create a successful treatment plan for you. We also perform porcelain veneers and dental implants for Houston area dental clients.

-Willowbrook Dental Care

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Houston Dentistry

Tuesday, November 10th, 2009

Educating Houston Dental Patients About Little-Known Risks Hi, I’m Dentist Dr. J. Scott Anderson, DDS. Most every day, I can be found at my Houston area dental office treating dental patients with tooth and gum problems or helping patients prevent them. There are many common medical conditions that pose a risk to oral health.

1) Houston diabetes patients with high blood glucose often have a higher risk of dental issues. If you have diabetes, let’s talk. My number is 281-469-8026.

2) A persistent dry mouth due to an inadequate amount of saliva can accelerate tooth decay, cause or contribute to gum disease, and trigger chronic bad breath. Many medications used by thousands of Texas folks, including those for high-blood pressure and depression, cause dry mouth. This side effect is not only unpleasant, it is dangerous. Anti-depressants (especially SSRI’s) and anti-psychotic drugs can also trigger tooth-grinding (bruxism).

3) Acid reflux in children and adults is associated with a host of dental problems such as decay and periodontal disease.

I help many dental patients prevent problems associated with medical conditions that sometimes seem unrelated to dental health. Regular professional dental care is essential for oral health, and an important part of your overall physical health.

http://www.TheHoustonCosmeticDentist.com

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Keeping Bones Strong in Houston

Thursday, October 8th, 2009

Willowbrook Dental Care There is a tooth connection that links osteoporosis and oral health. If you are a woman, you have probably heard about the high rate of osteoporosis in America. The state of Texas is no exception. Osteoporosis can often progress without any outward symptoms. However, there may be clues in a person’s mouth that indicate compromised bones in the rest of the body.

The following dental and periodontal issues could indicate the presence of osteoporosis:

  • Gum detachment
  • Ill-fitting dentures
  • Jaw bone recession and erosion
  • Difficulty with ordinary mouth function such as eating or speaking

There are many Houston dental professionals that can determine the presence of bone deterioration with x-rays and other diagnostic tools. If we suspect the possibility of osteoporosis, we can refer you to a local medical professional, whether you live in Cypress, Spring or Champion.

The experienced dentist at Willowbrook Dental Care are trained in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of the oral health problems sometimes associated with osteoporosis. Schedule a consultation in Houston by calling 281-469-8026 and we can discuss your dental concerns. While you are here, we can also tell you about the cosmetic dental services we provide. Aesthetic dentistry continues to improve smiles for our friends and neighbors in the Houston area.

If you suspect you may be suffering from osteoporosis, please see your physician right away. While your dentist can help identify some of the symptoms associated with osteoporosis, you should not rely on your dentist to provide a diagnosis of osteoporosis.

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Saving Teeth in Houston

Thursday, October 1st, 2009

Root Canals in Houston When a tooth is threatened by severe decay, periodontal disease, or damage from an injury, a skilled Houston dentist or endodontist must make a judgment call concerning the course of treatment. If the pulp of the tooth is infected or inflamed, a root canal is often the only way to save the tooth.

Willowbrook Dental Care: 281-469-8026

During a root canal procedure (or endodontic treatment) the soft tissue in the root of the tooth is removed. This tissue contains veins, arteries and lymph vessels. Once the roots are cleaned out and widened, they are filled with a special rubber material. The root canal is only the first step in the complete tooth restoration. After the root canal, without a crown, the tooth will become dry and brittle. The final steps are the core build up and crown.

At Willowbrook Dental Care, we fabricate strong, natural-looking crowns that blend perfectly with the surrounding teeth. With proper oral hygiene and regular visits to a Houston dentist, a tooth with a filled root can often function problem-free for the rest of a patient’s life.

I am Dentist Dr. J. Scott Anderson DDS of Willowbrook Dental Care. I have been practicing dentistry since 1988. During that time I have seen hundreds of teeth saved by this effective dental procedure. Root canal therapy at Willowbrook Dental Care in Houston has a very high success rate.

Because teeth with infected pulp tissue often cause no symptoms, it is important to have regular dental examinations. I can determine which (if any) teeth have infected roots. If the infection in the soft pulp tissue is left untreated, it can progress to a point where the tooth cannot be saved. Is it time for a thorough dental exam? Call our office at 281-469-8026.

Call Willowbrook Dental Care immediately if one of your teeth is screaming for attention!

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Dental Specialties Available In Houston

Wednesday, July 29th, 2009

General dentists in the Houston areaDental Specialties Available In Fremont are trained in a wide variety of dental procedures. However, sometimes, your general dentist will refer you to a local specialist, or include a specialist as part of your treatment team.

Following are some of the most common dental specialties found in the Houston area:

Endodontists
Endodontists specialize in root canal therapy and other procedures involving the root and surrounding parts of the tooth.

Periodontists
Periodontists treat the conditions affecting gum tissue and the bone surrounding the teeth. If you have gingivitis or more advanced periodontal disease, you may be referred to a periodontist in Houston.

Prosthodontists
Repairing damaged teeth and replacing lost teeth for Houston patients is called ‘restorative dentistry’. Prosthodontists have advanced training in procedures involving crowns, dental implants, bridges, veneers, inlays, and partial or complete dentures.

Pediatric Dentists
Infants, young children and teenagers have different dental needs than adults. Pediatric Dentists undergo additional training in the diagnosis and treatment of dental diseases affecting the youngest population in Houston.

Oral Surgeons
Oral Surgeons perform surgical procedures involving the teeth, mouth and jaw. These include dental implants, surgery to repair damage due to injury, tumor surgery, and cleft lip and palate reconstruction.

If you are interested in learning more about these specialties, or have a concern regarding your oral health, please visit us at Willowbrook Dental Care. You will find us at 17350 State Highway 249, Suite 200, Houston, TX  77064. Please give us a call at (281) 469-8026.

-Dr. J. Scott Anderson, DDS

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Tooth Sensitivity Treatment in Houston

Wednesday, July 29th, 2009

Have you ever been eating an ice cream coneTooth Sensitivity Treatment in Fremont when you felt a sudden jolt of pain in one of your teeth? If the enamel is eroded, or the gums have receded, the dentin layer of the tooth is exposed. The substances that cause tooth pain travel to the pulp where the nerves of the tooth are located. Ouch!

Tooth sensitivity can be a signal that something is wrong. It may be caused by periodontal disease or bacteria build-up in a crack in a tooth.

Enamel erosion can be caused by a number of factors including acidic foods and drinks, teeth grinding, or cracked teeth. If your teeth are sensitive following a professional teeth whitening, the sensitivity will probably be gone in a few weeks.

Surprisingly, one cause of gum recession for our patients is brushing too hard. That’s right; it is possible to brush too hard!

If you experience constant or intermittent pain in your teeth or gums, call (281) 469-8026 right away to make an appointment. Dr. J. Scott Anderson takes tooth pain seriously.

At Willowbrook Dental Care in Houston, we not only treat tooth sensitivity problems, we also perform entire smile makeovers for cosmetic dentistry patients. You’ll find us in the 77064 zip code area.

We’re your lifelong dental health partner.

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