Posted on

Exploring the Causes of Tooth Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

hot-cold-teeth-sensitivity Las Vegas

As the winter months settle in, bringing with them the festive cheer of the holiday smiles, the desire to cozy up with a hot beverage like hot cocoa or steaming apple cider becomes irresistible. However, amidst the warmth and comfort, some may find themselves experiencing tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. In such moments, it becomes vital to examine the underlying reasons.

Your teeth are intricate structures, housing countless tiny pores known as tubules and sensitive nerves. This complexity often leads to discomfort when exposed to extreme temperatures, whether you are indulging in an icy drink or flashing a smile in freezing weather.

To navigate this issue effectively, you must learn to distinguish between sensitivity to cold and sensitivity to hot, as they can indicate distinct concerns. While one may be a relatively common occurrence, the other might serve as a warning sign, signaling the need for prompt attention to potential dental problems.

Content Index

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity

To understand the causes of tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, it’s important to explore the complex anatomy of tooth structure.

Tooth Crown: The anatomical crown represents the visible part of your teeth above the gumline, distinguished by its white enamel covering.

Tooth Root: Situated below the gumline and embedded in the jawbone, the tooth root constitutes approximately two-thirds of your tooth’s length. Unlike the crown, it lacks the protective enamel layer, making it sensitive.

Enamel: This outermost layer of your tooth, with its hard, white appearance, shields the crown. It’s the part of your tooth you see when you smile, but it terminates at the gum line, leaving the roots exposed. Enamel, while the hardest substance in the human body, can erode over time due to factors like teeth grinding, aggressive brushing, acidic diets, and tooth decay.

Dentin: Comprising the largest portion of your tooth, dentin becomes visible when the roots are exposed. Unlike enamel, dentin has a more yellowish hue and is significantly sensitive to various stimuli and temperature fluctuations. Gum recession often leads to exposed roots and heightened sensitivity.

Cementum: A thin layer covering the dentin, cementum primarily serves as an attachment surface for gum tissues. It offers limited protection to the root beneath and can be easily worn away when gum recession exposes it, particularly through tooth brushing.

Pulp/Nerve: This vital component consists of blood vessels and nervous tissue running through the tooth’s core, extending to the root tip, and ensuring its nourishment and vitality.

Tubules: These minuscule porous openings dot the tooth’s surface and house tiny nerve endings. They are not visible to the naked eye. Certain whitening products can temporarily “open” these tubules, rendering them more susceptible to sensitivity.

So, why do teeth react with discomfort to hot or cold stimuli? As you may surmise, enamel plays a pivotal role in safeguarding teeth against bacteria, acids, sensitivity, and wear. However, when enamel erosion occurs due to factors like tooth decay or aggressive brushing, or when gum tissue recedes, exposing the dentin, it can lead to tooth sensitivity.

Exploring the Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity to Cold and Hot

Tooth Sensitivity to Cold and Hot
To unravel the mysteries behind tooth sensitivity to both cold and hot temperatures, it’s essential to consider a range of potential factors that could be at play. Here are a few common reasons for tooth sensitivity in these scenarios:

Cold Sensitivity

Gum Recession: When your gums recede, they expose the sensitive roots of your teeth, making them susceptible to cold sensations.

Enamel Erosion: Gradual erosion of the protective enamel layer can leave your teeth vulnerable to temperature-related discomfort.
Toothbrush Abrasion: Aggressive brushing habits can wear down enamel and contribute to cold sensitivity.

Teeth Grinding and Clenching (Bruxism): The continuous grinding and clenching of teeth can lead to enamel wear and heightened sensitivity.

Whitening Products: Certain whitening treatments can temporarily increase tooth sensitivity to cold.

Hot Sensitivity

Abscesses: Dental abscesses or infections can cause sensitivity to hot temperatures.

Irreversible Nerve Damage or Tooth Trauma: Severe nerve damage or previous dental trauma can result in sensitivity to hot stimuli.

Deep Cracks in the Tooth: Cracks that extend deep into the tooth can expose the inner nerve, leading to hot sensitivity.

Large Areas of Decay: Extensive decay can affect the tooth’s inner structures, causing hot sensitivity.

Changes to Your Bite: Alterations in your bite alignment can sometimes lead to hot sensitivity as well.

Identifying the precise cause of your tooth sensitivity may require a bit of investigation. A visit to our Las Vegas dentist office can involve a thorough examination of your teeth and gums for visible signs or the use of X-rays to assess the structures around your tooth roots. Since issues like dental abscesses or root cracks may not be evident externally, effective communication about the frequency and intensity of your tooth pain is necessary for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Effective Strategies for Treating Tooth Sensitivity

The approach to treating tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures depends on the specific symptoms and underlying causes. Here are some key considerations for addressing this issue:

Tooth Sensitivity to Cold

Specialized Toothpaste: Tooth sensitivity to cold can often be managed with specially formulated toothpaste designed to alleviate this discomfort.

Desensitizing Treatments: Dentists may recommend desensitizing treatments that can help reduce sensitivity to cold stimuli.

Whitening Products: If you regularly use teeth whitening products and experience sensitivity, reducing their frequency may be necessary.

Gum Recession: If gum recession is the cause of exposed tooth roots, your dentist may suggest treatments such as gum grafting or other periodontal therapies to address the issue.

Tooth Sensitivity to Heat

Dental Evaluation: Heat-related tooth pain should not be self-treated. It’s essential to have the tooth evaluated by a dentist, as it could indicate an infection or nerve damage.

Decay and Nerve Damage: Severe decay or nerve damage can lead to heat sensitivity. In such cases, endodontic therapy, commonly known as a root canal, may be recommended to prevent further damage and potential tooth loss.

When to Seek Dental Care

Monitoring Cold Sensitivity: Occasional sensitivity to cold foods is generally not a cause for concern. However, if you experience repeated cold sensitivity, it’s advisable to consult your dentist promptly for early intervention.

Schedule a Consultation

Come in for a consultation at one of the best family dental practices in Las Vegas.

Book an Appointment Today

Addressing Heat Sensitivity

Heat sensitivity is a more serious concern. If you encounter heat-related tooth sensitivity, it’s imperative to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Delaying treatment for heat sensitivity can allow the underlying issue to progress into a more complex and potentially painful condition.

At A Great Smile Dental, we offer a range of solutions to address your sensitive teeth concerns. Whether you need prescription toothpaste or advanced endodontic therapy, we are here to help you find the best treatment to restore your smile’s comfort. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and find relief for your sensitive teeth.

Posted on

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Holiday Smile

dentist-tips-holidays-las-vegas

Experiencing an unexpected visit to the dentist during the holiday season can be quite a setback, an inconvenience over what should be a joyous and festive time. To ensure the ongoing health of your teeth throughout the holidays and beyond, consider these valuable tips that will not only protect your smile but also allow you to savor the season’s indulgences with confidence and peace of mind. By incorporating these simple yet effective practices into your holiday festivities, you can maintain a radiant smile and prioritize your oral health even amid the tempting array of seasonal treats and drinks.

Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools

While it may seem obvious, there are moments when impatience or convenience tempts us to use our teeth for tasks they aren’t meant for. For instance, when confronted with a stubbornly sealed package, our first instinct might be to use our teeth as a makeshift tool. However, it’s important resist this urge and opt for a pair of scissors instead. The same principle applies to cracking open nutshells. Although it might save you a few seconds, using your teeth as nutcrackers can lead to a broken tooth and hefty dental expenses.

Teeth serve various essential functions, such as chewing and articulating speech. However, they are not suitable tools for tasks like opening bottles, tearing packages, or cracking nuts. These actions weaken the enamel and the delicate edges of your teeth, ultimately increasing the risk of tooth fractures and breakage, which may necessitate costly cosmetic dental procedures.

Opt for Light-Colored or Clear Drinks

The last thing you want is to wake up on January 1st and notice that your once-white teeth appear stained, especially if you’ve invested in teeth whitening. Red wine and cranberry juice, often present in some cocktails and known for their antioxidant properties, have the potential to cause significant tooth discoloration. This can potentially reverse the effects of teeth whitening treatments with just a few indulgent sips. To maintain the whiteness of your teeth throughout the holiday season, choose beverages that are light in color or clear. This way, you can still be merry without worrying about the appearance of your teeth.

Stay Hydrated with Water

Drinking water offers numerous health benefits, especially during the holiday hustle and bustle. While you’re likely to be out and about and aiming to look and feel your best, water can keep your skin looking refreshed, freshen your breath, aid digestion, and promote elimination. When it comes to your dental health, another advantage of staying hydrated with water is its ability to rinse away newly formed bacteria, helping you maintain cavity-free teeth during this sweet time of year. Keep a water bottle handy or a glass nearby for a quick rinse between indulgences.

Enjoy Cheese Alongside Your Festivities

You don’t have to forgo that cup of eggnog or a celebratory champagne toast during the holidays. However, there are ways to minimize the potential harm to your teeth caused by alcoholic beverages, which are known for their high acid content that can erode protective tooth enamel. To mitigate this acid without compromising on your enjoyment, consider snacking on a piece of cheese in between sips. The alkaline properties in cheese help neutralize the acidity of the beverage, providing you with another reason to linger by the charcuterie board!

Maintain Your Oral Care Routine

The holidays often provide an opportunity to deviate from our usual routines, adding to the specialness of the season. However, it can be challenging to return to normalcy once the decorations are packed away. Whether you’re traveling or at home, make a commitment to stick to your daily oral care regimen. Consistently brushing your teeth twice a day and regular flossing will not only keep your smile ready for photos but also eliminate one less thing to worry about when January arrives, like hitting the gym.

Schedule Your Dental Appointment

Remember, when it comes to oral hygiene, prevention is always better than treatment, no matter the time of year. While it’s wise to stay hydrated with water and avoid excessive sugary snacks, maintaining a year-round dental care routine is the most effective way to safeguard your teeth during this season.

Thinking about scheduling a dental checkup before or after the holiday season? Don’t hesitate to give us a call today to book an appointment and ensure your dental health remains in top shape!

Posted on

Use Your Dental Insurance Benefits Before They Expire!

great-smile-dental-benefits-expire

As 2024 approaches rapidly, it’s imperative to visit your Las Vegas Great Smile dentist and make the most of your dental insurance benefits before they expire. We understand that the year’s end can get busy with the allure of seasonal attractions, family gatherings, and holiday events. Nonetheless, neglecting your oral health during this hectic period is ill-advised.

Make sure your paid benefits aren’t wasted. Allow us to assist you in optimizing your dental insurance benefits which will enhance your smile. Let’s explore some useful tips to usher in the new year with a great smile!

Understanding Your Annual Dental Benefits

First and foremost, it’s advantageous to have a comprehensive understanding of your dental insurance plan, including its benefit options and limitations. Regardless of your dental insurance provider, conducting a thorough examination of your plan’s specifics will empower you to make the most of your insurance benefits.

Take a moment to review your dental insurance provider’s Explanation of Benefits (EOB). Pay particular attention to your yearly maximum, which signifies the maximum amount your insurance will contribute to your dental care within either a calendar or fiscal year. Examine and compare their allocated amount with your current utilization of benefits. If there’s still coverage available, it presents an excellent opportunity to set an appointment and utilize your outstanding benefits.

Dental Benefits Left Unused: the Outcome

Regrettably, unused benefits do not rollover into the next calendar or fiscal year. As the new year commences, your insurance benefit limits reset, and your oral health may bear the cost of missed opportunities. The key to maintaining good oral health is to maximize your dental benefits.

Is postponing essential dental procedures such as teeth cleanings and exams, root canals, or crowns an option? While it might seem optional to you, we firmly believe it’s not a favorable one. We understand that not everyone eagerly anticipates such treatments. Furthermore, aside from your plan’s annual maximum, generally most insurance providers stipulate a set limit on the number of dental services allowed each year. If you haven’t exhausted your yearly allotment for root canals, crowns, or implants, it’s worth considering scheduling a dental appointment. Fortunately, most insurance plans cover preventive care, as it is an investment in your overall oral health. Regular check-ups and cleanings are usually well-covered. Staying current on these routine appointments is the most cost-effective use of your insurance, reducing upfront expenses and helping you avoid pricier treatments in the future, such as root canals.

Though reviewing the specifics of your insurance benefits may seem tiresome, the financial benefits are substantial. Regardless of your specific dental needs, our professional and compassionate team can devise a personalized treatment plan that enables you to maximize your insurance benefits while preserving a brilliant smile.

December is a bustling month in our family dentistry office, so don’t miss the opportunity to fully capitalize on your annual dental benefits. Grab your calendar and begin scheduling your dental appointments with us before the year draws to a close!

Posted on

Boost Your Self-Confidence with Professional Teeth Whitening

professional_teeth_whitening_in_Las_Vegas_NV

Professional Teeth Whitening in Las Vegas NV

When you don’t feel confident about your teeth, it can interfere with all areas of your life. Thankfully, professional teeth whitening is an option for those looking to quickly and effectively brighten their smile. If you are looking for professional teeth whitening in Las Vegas NV, we can help you.

Before we get into details about professional teeth whitening, let’s first review why someone’s teeth might become discolored in the first place.

What causes teeth discoloration? 

Stains that originate on the surface of the tooth (called extrinsic discoloration) are caused by things like cigarettes, chewing tobacco, coffee, tea, red wine, blueberries, beets, and curries. As a general rule, if something can stain a white shirt, it can also cause stains on your teeth. Tooth decay can also lead to some level of discoloration on the surface of a tooth. 

Teeth whitening is only able to address extrinsic discoloration—not intrinsic discoloration, which are stains that come from within the tooth. Intrinsic discoloration has a number of different causes, including dental trauma, certain medical conditions, and genetics. 

How does professional teeth whitening work? 

To begin the process, your dentist will make note of the current shade of your teeth. Your teeth will then be polished to remove plaque and other debris from the surface.

Before applying the whitening solution, your dentist will use gauze, retractors, and barriers to keep your teeth dry and your gums, cheeks, tongue, and lips protected from the solution. When everything is in place, your dentist will apply the whitening solution to the front surface of your teeth. The solution has a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide, which produces the whitening affect.

Once applied, the solution will be left on your teeth for 30 to 60 minutes. High-intensity light from a specialized lamp or laser device will shine on your teeth during this time to activate the whitening solution. 

When the optimum shade has been achieved (or the maximum time has passed), your teeth will be rinsed. A fluoride solution may be applied to your teeth to help ease any tooth sensitivity, which is a common (but temporary) side effect. 

What are the benefits of professional teeth whitening? 

Teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatment—and for good reason. This treatment offers many benefits and few, if any, drawbacks. Let’s take a look at the benefits that come with professional teeth whitening. 

  • Provides fast, profound results: The concentration of professional whitening gel is much stronger than what would be included in an at-home whitening kit. As such, results are more significant and visible immediately. 
  • Boosts confidence: If you’re self-conscious about discolored teeth, having them professionally whitened can drastically improve your confidence. No more hiding your teeth when you smile, laugh, or talk! 
  • Uses a safe approach: Having your teeth whitened by a professional is much safer than doing it yourself at home. Unlike at-home systems, in-office whitening takes place under carefully monitored conditions, which allows for a safe process and the best results.  

Professional teeth whitening in Las Vegas, NV

You don’t have to live with stained teeth. Professional teeth whitening can transform your smile from dull and discolored to bright and sparkly white. If you’re interested in teeth whitening in Las Vegas, NV, contact A Great Smile Dental by calling 702-804-5154 or sending us a message online. Dr. Ben Yaghma has extensive experience helping patients restore their smiles with teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry services.

If you’re not in the Las Vegas area, simply type “teeth whitening near me” into your search engine to find a professional closer to you. Take the first step to a brighter, more beautiful smile today! 

Posted on

Understanding the Process of Getting Dental Veneers

veneers_in_Las_Vegas_NV_

Veneers in Las Vegas NV

Do you ever look at pictures of celebrities and wonder how they have such perfect teeth? While some may be genetically blessed, many have taken advantage of dental veneers. If you’ve been feeling self-conscious about your smile, perhaps due to discolored or chipped teeth, it may be time to consider updating your smile with veneers. If you are looking for veneers in Las Vegas NV, we can help you.

What are dental veneers? 

Dental veneers are wafer-thin, tooth-colored shells that are permanently affixed to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. While there are different types of dental veneers, we offer porcelain veneers at A Great Smile Dental. Porcelain veneers look and feel natural, are  stain-resistant, and last about 10 to 15 years, or even longer.[*]

Veneers are used to correct several cosmetic concerns, including:

  • Tooth discoloration
  • Chipped or broken teeth
  • Shape or size irregularities
  • Wear from teeth grinding
  • Gaps between teeth  

Some people may only get one veneer in the case of a broken or chipped tooth, however, many people get multiple veneers to create an even, symmetrical smile. The top front eight teeth are most commonly corrected with veneers.

Veneers can last for over a decade, making them a semi-permanent investment that can drastically improve the appearance of your smile and, consequently, your confidence. 

What does the process of getting veneers entail? 

First, you’ll have a preliminary appointment with your dentist, during which they’ll conduct a thorough exam of your teeth, discuss your esthetic goals, and share the available options. 

If the doctor determines you’re a good candidate for veneers, your next appointment will involve your dentist removing a small amount of enamel from each tooth to create space for the veneers to adhere to. A putty mold of your teeth will then be created and sent to a laboratory where your veneers will be made. Temporary veneers will be prepared and applied to your teeth while you wait for the lab to create the permanent ones. 

A few weeks later, once your dentist receives your veneers, you’ll come back for another appointment to have the veneers applied. Permanently bonding the veneers to your teeth is a quick and easy process. The natural tooth will be cleaned, polished, and etched, and dental cement will be applied. The veneers will then be placed on your teeth and a special light will be used to cure the cement. After excess cement is removed and final adjustments are made, you’ll be ready to go with your new smile in tow!

Dental veneers in Las Vegas, NV

Veneers can drastically improve the appearance of your teeth, giving you a brighter, more even smile. If you’re interested in getting evaluated for dental veneers in the Las Vegas, NV area, contact A Great Smile Dental by calling 702-804-5154 or send us a message online. 

Dr. Ben Yaghma is dedicated to helping patients restore their smiles with veneers and other cosmetic and general dentistry services in Las Vegas, NV. Don’t spend one more day feeling self-conscious about your smile! 

Posted on

5 Facts You Should Know About Dental Implants

implant_dentistry_in_Las_Vegas_NV_

Implant Dentistry in Las Vegas NV

More than 120 million people in the U.S. are missing at least one tooth.[*] Missing teeth not only affect your confidence, but also your oral health, facial posture, and physical health. If you are looking for implant dentistry in Las Vegas NV, we can help you.

Whether you’re missing teeth due to an accident, aging, decay, or gum disease, missing teeth don’t have to impact your life and well-being. The advancement of dental implants has enabled countless patients to restore their teeth, resulting in a better smile and improved health. 

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a titanium pole that acts as a replacement root of a missing tooth. After being inserted into the jawbone by an oral surgeon, the dental implant will be left alone for several months, during which time it fuses to the surrounding bone. The dental implant acts as a sturdy anchor for an artificial tooth called a crown, which looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.

Quick facts about dental implants

Here are some quick facts to consider when deciding whether or not dental implants are right for you.

  1. They can replace teeth in a variety of ways

Dental implants can be used to replace one missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. They can even be used to support an entire arch of replacement teeth that are fixed into the mouth and never removed. In some cases, an entire arch of replacement teeth can be supported by as few as four dental implants. It’s comparable to a table, which only needs four legs to hold it up.   

  1. They’re built to last

Unlike dentures or dental bridges, which typically last seven to ten years, dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. Aside from regular dental hygiene, implants require no extra maintenance and are the next best thing to natural teeth. 

  1. They offer many benefits 

A dental implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of the missing tooth. A crown then goes on top of the implant to simulate an actual tooth. The result is a natural-looking tooth that offers many benefits:

  • Restores your ability to chew properly 
  • Restores your appearance
  • Helps keep your jawbone from shrinking due to bone loss
  • Preserves the health of the surrounding bone and gums
  • Helps keep adjacent (nearby) teeth stable
  • Improves your quality of life
  1. They feel natural 

Not only do dental implants look natural, but they feel natural, too. Unlike dentures, which often cause people to struggle with speaking normally and are prone to shifting around, dental implants allow you to speak, eat, and feel the same way you did with your natural teeth.

  1. They aren’t for everyone 

Unfortunately, not everyone is a candidate for dental implants. Ideal candidates for a dental implant are people who:[*]

  • Have good general and oral health.
  • Have adequate bone in their jaw to support the implant.
  • Have healthy gum tissue free of periodontal disease.

Implant dentistry in Las Vegas, NV

If you’re in the Las Vegas area and interested in seeing if you’re a candidate for dental implants, reach out to A Great Smile Dental by calling 702-804-5154 or sending us a message online. Dr. Ben Yaghmai expertly blends artistry with the science of implant dentistry to restore your smile to perfection. 

Posted on

5 Major Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

cosmetic_dentistry_in_Las_Vegas_NV

Cosmetic Dentistry in Las Vegas NV

Cosmetic dentistry is a collection of services dedicated to improving the appearance of your smile. From teeth whitening to porcelain veneers to complete smile makeovers, cosmetic dentistry has the power to truly transform your teeth and gums. If you are looking for cosmetic dentistry in Las Vegas NV, we can help you.

If you’re curious about how cosmetic dentistry can benefit you, you’ve come to the right place. Here are ten benefits of cosmetic dentistry, many of which might surprise you! 

  1. Improves appearance 

By correcting dental damage caused by trauma, developmental abnormalities, illness, infection, or heredity, you’ll reduce signs of aging and, in many cases, drastically enhance your overall appearance.

Issues that can be corrected with cosmetic dentistry include missing teeth, stained teeth, misshapen teeth, disproportionate teeth, cracked or chipped teeth, gaps between teeth, misaligned teeth, overlapping teeth, pointy canine teeth, and a gummy smile. 

  1. Boosts self-confidence 

It can be hard to feel confident when you’re self-conscious about your smile. You may find yourself constantly trying to suppress or hide your smile or laugh so others don’t see your teeth. Correcting your oral imperfections provides an instant confidence boost, allowing you to freely smile and approach the world with confidence. 

While correcting your teeth might seem like a small thing, the confidence you gain can have a significant impact on your relationships, happiness, and even your career. 

  1. Improves oral health 

While the primary goal of cosmetic dentistry is to improve the appearance of your smile, procedures often help improve your oral health by default. For example, in addition to enhancing your appearance, dental crowns protect damaged or decaying teeth from worsening. Another example is dental implants, which safeguard the gums and bones from degeneration.  

As such, cosmetic dentistry can not only help prevent future dental damage but can also save you money in the long run, as you correct issues before they develop into more costly problems. 

  1. Offers long-lasting results

Cosmetic dentistry results are immediately visible and usually last for more than a decade. Plus, the results typically require little to no maintenance. You can literally walk out of your dentist’s office with a brand new smile that will stand the test of time. 

  1. Improves your diet 

Certain dental problems are not only unsightly but can also impact your daily food intake. For example, missing or chipped teeth or an uneven bite can make it difficult to chew certain types of foods. By correcting these issues, you’ll have the freedom to eat whatever you’d like, which can support your overall health. 

Cosmetic dentistry in Las Vegas, NV

Receiving cosmetic dentistry treatments can transform your confidence, happiness, and, ultimately your life. If you’re interested in cosmetic dental procedures in Las Vegas, NV, reach out to A Great Smile Dental by calling 702-804-5154 or sending us a message online. Dr. Ben Yaghmai can help you determine the best cosmetic dental treatments to achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of.