Bad Tooth? Why An Implant Could Be The Best Solution

If you have a bad tooth, one that forces you to make constant trips to the dentist, you are likely searching for a long-term solution to free you from discomfort, embarrassment, and hassle. A bad tooth can quickly lead to an extraction leaving you with a gap in your smile along with the frustration of a missing tooth. One of the most effective ways to solve this problem is by replacing a bad tooth with a high quality dental implant.

 

Gum disease, dental decay and more can cause significant and irreparable damage to a tooth, but fortunately dental implants are available to give you the best solution. Dental implants provide a permanent, long-lasting alternative that offer unique advantages over their traditional counterparts such as bridges or dentures.

What Is A Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a custom made crown that is designed to look and function like natural teeth. For dental implants, porous metal anchor is first placed entirely into the jawbone and then left to allow bone growth around it to lock it into place. After the anchor has become fully integrated within the jawbone, a mounting post is secured into it and the crown is then attached to the post and positioned at the gum line.

Benefits Of A Dental Implant

Dental implants provide many benefits over bridges and dentures that have proven them as a better solution for replacing a missing or bad tooth. Among the many advantages of a dental implant you will find that implants:

  • Look And Feel Natural: implants are custom-made to fit in with surrounding teeth from size to color. This is particularly beneficial for people who only need to replace one tooth. Implants are not only designed to match your existing teeth, but they also function like natural teeth. Unlike dentures, implants are not taken out and will not move while you eat or talk. They are secured into the jawbone allowing them to provide the same feel as a natural tooth.
  • Are Comfortable: Unlike dentures, implants do not require adhesives to hold it in place. Dental implants are tightly attached and provide a natural level of comfort while chewing or speaking. Implants will not become loose if you eat certain foods, they will not move and cause friction, and they will not slip. The process for a dental implant procedure may be longer and may cause discomfort as healing and osseointegration occur, but the results are comfortable and durable.
  • Won’t Damage Surrounding Teeth: Turning to a dental bridge to solve your dental problems will require the use of healthy teeth to secure the bridge. This can put strain on those teeth or even cause damage. A dental implant will not affect surrounding teeth, but it can prevent you from experiencing more problems.
  • Are Long-Lasting: A dental implant is a permanent solution for bad or missing teeth. By carefully caring for your implant(s) just as you would your natural teeth, you can enjoy a dental solution that will last a lifetime. Implants cost more than a bridge or crown, but the long-term results can save you even more in terms of time, money, pain, and frustration.

Henderson Dental Implants

At Foutz Family Dentistry, we offer high quality dental implants that will provide you with the most effective solution for a bad tooth. Call our office today at (702) 792-5929 for more information on Henderson dental implants or to schedule a consultation.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

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Teeth Whitening Methods To Enhance Your Smile

Bright, white sparkling teeth can transform the smile of any person bringing a renewed sense of confidence. As such, teeth whitening has become an extremely popular cosmetic dental procedure because it is non-invasive, effective and delivers brilliant results. Teeth whitening treatments use products containing varying amounts of peroxide ingredients to bleach the enamel of your teeth making them whiter. Treatments are available at different concentrations of peroxide allowing you to find the treatment you need. If your smile has dulled because of the shade of your teeth, there are several teeth whitening options available to help brighten your face.

In-Office Teeth Whitening

One of the safest methods for effective teeth whitening is through in-office treatments at your dentist’s office. Treatments are performed by trained dentist staff and customized to your individual needs. In-office whitening is fast, effective and delivers the best results by it is a more expensive option that other treatment methods. The higher price tag reflects the effectiveness of the treatment along with providing quicker results that will last longer.

 

At Foutz Family Dentistry, we feature Opalescence Boost PF, a whitening process using a high-concentration peroxide get that absorbs quickly and thoroughly to whiten teeth from the inside out. With customized formulas combined with a whitening gel that contains potassium nitrate and fluoride, you will protect the health of your teeth while enjoying teeth that are up to five shades whiter. In just two or three treatments, each lasting about an hour, our Opalescence Boost PF teeth whitening treatment will help you smile bigger and brighter.

At-Home Whitening

For a professional, but more affordable whitening treatment, your dentist can provide you with a high quality take home option.  Your take home kit will be comprised of whitening product and custom-fitted mouth trays that allow you to control your whitening process. Whitening products are formulated a lower peroxide concentration than that of an in-office treatment but are still very effective. Trays can be worn overnight or in intervals throughout the day and typically provide results within a couple of weeks.

 

Foutz Family Dentistry is happy to offer an at-home option for our Opalescence whitening process. Patients will be provided with custom mouth trays along with the gel formulation needed to meet their desired results.

Combination Method Of In-Office And At Home Whitening

Many dental offices, including Foutz Family Dentistry, will offer you the option of a combined whitening method. This combination procedure allows you to jumpstart your results though one or two in-office treatments and then finish the process through at-home whitening trays. This provides you with quicker results, but maximized duration. 

Whitening Strips, Toothpastes, And Products

You will find that the toothpaste aisle at any store is saturated with whitening products. From whitening strips to toothpastes, mouthwashes and even chewing gum, teeth whitening products are available to meet high demand. Of any store bought product, whitening strips appear to be the most effective although they will take considerably longer than any professional treatment you receive from your dentist. Many of the other whitening products will remove surface stains, but do little in terms of true whitening.

 

To schedule an appointment for Henderson teeth whitening at Foutz Family Dentistry, call (702) 792-5929 today.

 

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

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Treating Gum Disease Around Tooth Roots Is Hard – But Not Impossible

An infection in the superficial layers of the gums can quickly worsen and become a significantly more difficult issue to treat. While gum disease, technically known as periodontal disease, typically begins with swelling, soreness or bleeding of the gums, but it can easily spread down below the gum line and into the crevices between tooth roots.

 

Gum disease is primarily the result of a plaque build up on the surface of the teeth. Ineffective brushing or flossing can lead to a combination of bacteria and lingering food particles that lead to infection affecting the gum tissue, tooth roots, and bone.

Tooth Roots And Gum Infection

Teeth with multiple roots, in particular, are the most susceptible to the negative effects of gum disease. The areas between the roots of these teeth are called furcations and can be difficult to treat when gum disease has spread down into those areas. Gum disease that has spread between tooth roots causes an infection known as furcation invasion or furcation involvement. This infection will weaken the bone and can even cause it to dissolve.

 

As mentioned previously, periodontal disease is most often cause by an accumulation of plaque on the surface of the teeth. When this bacterium is allowed to grow from a lack of proper oral hygiene habits, it will spread down below the gum line where brushing and flossing cannot reach and cannot help. As the infection grows, it will affect the tooth and gums in classes, or stages, that affect the tooth more as it grows.

 

In its earliest stage, Class I, the infection will cause a slight separation of gum tissue from the tooth creating a sort of pocket or groove in the gums with only slight bone loss, if any. In the second stage, Class II, this pocket grows into a larger horizontal opening of 2 or more millimeters that likely deepens into the crown of the tooth. This larger pocket is a clear sign of measurable bone loss. In its most advanced stage, Class III, the infection has spread into an opening that has caused enough bone loss to pass through the furcation from under the crown of the tooth through to the other side.  

 

Identifying the stage of furcation involvement is best done through a combination of dental x-rays, a physical examination, and knowledgeable experience from a trusted dentist. Maintaining consistent dental checkups and cleanings are one of the best ways to help prevent and detect gum infection before it can grow into a more serious condition such as a furcation invasion.

Treating Gum Infection In Furcations

Treating gum disease that has spread into the furcation of a tooth is more difficult than typical periodontal disease treatment. Treating typical gum disease can be done through non-surgical treatments including aggressive dental cleanings, root scaling, laser curettage, or oral and topical antibiotics. Treating gum disease around tooth roots can be much harder as it becomes significantly harder to access the affected area.

 

At the earliest stage, treatment begins by cleaning root surfaces uses scalers or ultrasonic tools. However, furcations often require surgery in which a hinged flap is created in the gum tissue allowing the dentist to access the root area. This flap is moved aside during treatments and then replaced and sutured afterwards. In more serious cases, treatment may require grafting gum and/or bone tissues to encourage regeneration in the affected areas. Surgery may also be required to reshape the gum attachments around the tooth.

 

The treatment for gum disease around tooth roots is hard and involved, but it can be done. However, it is far better to invest time into thorough brushing and flossing twice a day along with routine dental cleanings to help prevent the infection from forming or growing.

 

For more information or if you are noticing signs of gum disease, schedule an appointment with Foutz Family Dentistry today.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

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Avoid Implant Failure By Watching Out For These Mouth Problems

Dental implants are one of the most sought after options for tooth replacement. With a number of advantages, dental implants provide a long lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. Among the advantages of dental implants is how easy it is to care for them and maintain dental hygiene. This however does not mean that they cannot be damaged or will not be affected by other oral problems. Certain conditions can put your implants in danger of early failure, but if these conditions are prevented with proper care or treated quickly with effective care, your investment in implants can last for a very long time.

Mouth Problems That Can Cause Implant Failure

  • Poor Oral Health: A common misconception is that dental implants do not require regular brushing or flossing, however that is far from the truth. Failing to take proper care of your teeth, can affect your implants, your gums and even your overall health. Poor health and poor overall health can prevent implants from properly integrating.

 

  • Gum Disease: Even with implants, plaque can build up on the surface of the tooth leading to a bacterial infection of the gums, also known as periodontal disease. For people with implants, a form of gum disease known as peri-implantitis can occur. In peri-implantitis the gum tissue surrounding and supporting the implant become infected, weakened and can cause bone loss and implant failure. Be careful to maintain a proper oral hygiene routine with twice daily brushing and daily flossing.

 

  • Teeth Grinding: Teeth grinding or a habit of clenching teeth, known as bruxism, can also lead to implant failure. Teeth grinding often happen involuntarily as a result stress, anxiety, anger, frustration or sleep apnea. It typically involves the unconscious and repeated clenching or grinding of teeth, or biting down hard even when not chewing. In natural teeth, teeth grinding can wear down tooth enamel and cause teeth to become flattened, fractured, chipped or even loose. In dental implants, teeth grinding can lead to bone loss weakening the support around the implant or could even cause the implant to break. Using a bite guard while sleeping is one of the most effective ways to buffer the damaging force from repeated grinding.

Preventing Implant Failure

 

Dental implants are long lasting, but not indestructible. Committing to thorough brushing and flossing will prevent the accumulation of food particles, plaque and bacteria. Proper oral hygiene along with bi-annual dental cleanings and exams will help to keep your implants in the best condition. At a cleaning or checkup, your dentist will be able to identify potential problems including signs of peri-implantitis or bruxism and get your started on treating the problem before it can cause implant damage or failure. At Foutz Family Dentistry, we offer comprehensive dental cleanings for dental implants along with providing the high quality care needed to extend the life of your investment.

 

For more information about ways to extend the life of your dental implants or to schedule a cleaning, call our office today at (702) 792-5929.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

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Solutions For A Severely Cracked Tooth

Teeth can crack for a number of reasons; perhaps you have fallen or gotten hit in the face, or maybe you simply chewed on something hard. A cracked tooth is unfortunate, but you do not have to worry because there are several effective solutions for a cracked tooth.

At Foutz Family Dentistry, we have seen countless patients with cracked, chipped or broken teeth and offer a number of procedures to repair your damaged teeth. The right solution will be dependent on how severe the damage to the tooth, but with over 30 years of experience Dr. Foutz has the knowledge and experience needed to deliver the finest dental care.

Reasons For A Cracked Tooth

Teeth can crack for many reasons including:

  • A bad fall
  • Blow to the face
  • Biting something hard
  • Tooth decay
  • Cavities

Procedures To Repair A Cracked Tooth

1) Porcelain Crown

A porcelain crown is placed over a tooth, surrounding the enamel. In essence, a crown functions as a cap on the tooth, protecting it from continued damage, easing pain while chewing, and improving its appearance. Crowns are made in tooth-colored porcelain that look natural but are strong and durable. Crowns are made individually for each person ensuring that you receive a crown made specifically for your teeth that will be comfortable and permanent.

2) Fixed Bridge

A fixed bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth that are attached to crowns on adjacent teeth. A bridge may be a good option if you have more than one cracked tooth as it can help if you have more than one cracked tooth. A bridge is also a good option if your tooth is so severely cracked that it must be removed; it helps to complete empty spaces giving a natural complete looking smile.

3) Dental Implants

A dental implant is one of the most sought after solutions for replacing missing teeth or improving the appearance of severely cracked or damaged teeth. Dental implants can replace a single tooth in between two health teeth, allowing you to only address the tooth in question. With a dental implant, the severely cracked tooth would first be removed. After the gum has healed, a porous metal anchor is first placed into the jawbone and given time for osseointegration. Afterwards a mounting post and a specially designed crown are attached to the post and positioned at the gum line. Dental implants function like natural teeth and can be used as anchors for crowns, bridges or to secure loose dentures.

4) Cosmetic Bonding

Cosmetic bonding is more commonly used for minor cracks or chips in teeth. Using a tooth-colored composite resin, a cracked tooth is filled or repaired helping to improve its aesthetic appearance. Bonding can provide long-lasting results but is better used for smaller corrections.

5) Veneers

Porcelain veneers are custom-made shells that are made to look like a natural tooth. A veneer is created to match both the color and shape of your teeth, but is bonded to the tooth in order to correct minor flaws. With a veneer, you can retain your tooth and its natural strength while improving the appearance of a cracked tooth.

To learn more about effective solutions for severely cracked teeth in Henderson, Nevada, call Foutz Family Dentistry today at (702) 792-5929.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

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Daily Care For Dental Implants

Taking care of dental implants is easily done by simply maintaining good oral hygiene habits. Brushing twice a day and flossing regularly will make a significant impact in keeping your implants clean and free of plaque.

Why Is Daily Care Important For Dental Implants?

Although an implant is not a natural tooth, it still requires daily care in order to prevent problems that can lead to bone loss and even removal of the implant. Even though you cannot develop cavities or decay, dental implants that are not well maintained can cause bleeding known as mucositis, which if left un-treated can develop into a condition known as peri-implantitis or irreversible bone loss.

Daily Oral Hygiene Habits For Dental Implants

Dental implants require daily cleaning in order to keep in proper condition and maintain good oral health. Good daily care habits to consider include:

  • Brushing at least twice a day with soft toothbrush or an electric toothbrush
  • Brushing after each meal
  • Using a fluoride toothpaste
  • Using a soft toothbrush or if possible a inter-dental toothbrush that is specially designed to better clean around dental implants, bridges or even braces
  • Regular flossing
  • Using an antimicrobial mouth rinse

You must maintain good daily oral care habits to prevent gum diseases or even dental implant failure. You may also avoid high amounts of sugar, starches or acids as these can be hard on teeth and lead to plaque buildup.

Keep Up Regular Dentist Visits

To most effectively care for your dental implants, Foutz Family Dentistry recommends consistent oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Even with implants, you should still make it a habit to see your dentist every 6 months for a professional exam and thorough cleaning. You will also need yearly x-rays to check that all aspects of your dental implants are functioning properly, have healed, and are staying in place. Regular dental exams and cleanings play a significant role in preventing dental problems and maintaining the overall health of your teeth and gums. During a dental checkup, the implants will be checked for looseness and gums will be evaluated.  

Henderson Dental Implants

At Foutz Family Dentistry in Henderson, we provide superior care for natural teeth and dental implants alike. TO schedule a regular exam and cleaning, call (702) 792-5929. Or call us today to learn more about dental implants and how they might benefit you.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

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Gum Disease And Heart Disease: Is There A Connection?

Studies have shown a notable connection between gum disease and other larger health problems, such as heart disease. Plaque build-up, inflamed gums, and bacteria in the mouth can all contribute to heart attacks, making it extremely important to address gum issues quickly.

What Is Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is an infection of the gums typically caused by build up of bacteria, plaque and tartar. Plaque is the bacteria on teeth that causes cavities, but it can also build up on the gums, leading to the beginning stages of gum disease known as gingivitis.  Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease typically marked by swollen, inflamed or bleeding gums.  When left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. As the disease progresses, it will cause gums to pull away from the teeth while bacteria begins to destroy tissue and bone.  

Symptoms of gum disease can include:

  • Bad breath
  • Red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums
  • Pain while chewing
  • Receding gums
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Loose teeth

How Does Gum Disease Cause Other Health Problems?

When left to build up, these bacteria of the mouth can escape through the bloodstream reaching major organs and other areas of the body, which in turn can lead to other larger health issues. Although the exact connection is still unknown, inflammation is also thought to be the common link as the level of inflammation of the gums can increase the risk of inflammation elsewhere in the body. Inflammation is a key factor in many diseases particularly heart disease.

Connection Between Gum Disease And Heart Disease

Studies have continually shown a connection between poor heart health and gum disease. The correlation between inflamed gums or excess bacteria in the mouth and heart attacks continues to grow as people with poor gum health are two times more likely to have coronary artery disease than those with healthier gums.  It is believed that gum disease can increase the risk of heart disease due to the combination of bacteria in the blood stream from inflammation of the gums, which can lead to narrowing of arteries.

It is important to remember that not all patients with gum disease will suffer from heart disease, but it is still extremely important to treat gum disease before it has a chance to progress or worsen.

Treating Gum Disease

Brushing and flossing teeth regularly, at least two times a day, is the first step to reducing the risk of periodontal disease and overall poor oral health. Mouthwash can also help to decrease the amount of bacteria in the mouth. A healthier diet low in sugar can also help to reduce plaque and bacteria build up.

Gum disease cannot be treated with good oral hygiene habits alone. It is extremely important to maintain consistent and routine dental cleanings and examinations. A thorough cleaning every 4-6 months is the most effective way to remove plaque and tartar, while watching for signs of gum disease. Your dentist will be able to recommend specific periodontal habits to help and provide the most effective treatment.

If you suspect gum disease, contact a dentist as soon as possible to avoid progression or other more serious health problems.  Schedule an appointment at Foutz Family Dentisty in Henderson, Nevada to help get you on the path to healthy gums.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

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How Does Botox Help With Headaches And TMJ?

Botulinum toxin, most commonly known as botox, is an injectable neurotoxin that is most associated with softening frown lines and smoothing wrinkles. However, Botox has a number of health benefits in addition to its aesthetic ones when administered correctly.

Botox As A Medical Treatment

Botox is often used as a treatment for headache and migraine relief in addition to treatment for jaw pain, jaw tension, and TMJ (temporo-mandibular joint) disorders. In 2010, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved the use of Botox as a treatment for chronic migraines and has also been recognized as a viable treatment for other medical conditions such as TMJ, neck spasms and even overactive bladder.

How Does Botox Work?

As a medical treatment, Botox is injected into the facial muscles affected with pain and discomfort and then works like a pain reliever as it binds to cramped muscle fibers and then causes them to relax. Botox blocks the chemical signals that indicate pain causing a temporary paralysis of the designated muscles and preventing those neurotransmitters from reaching the nerve endings around the head, neck, and jaw.

How Long Does It Take For Botox To Work?

Botox for the treatment of chronic headaches or jaw pain is most often quick and effective. A majority of patients report noticeable improvement within the first few days of treatment and relief within the first couple weeks. While patients may notice improvement following the first treatment, Botox is most effective in treating pain following a consistent number of treatment cycles. Patients often notice the greatest effect after the second or third treatment, with each treatment lasting for approximately 10-12 weeks.

Who Can Administer Botox?

Botox is a non-surgical procedure that can be administered by a doctor and arguably more effectively by a dentist. A dentist is one of the most knowledgeable medical professionals in the oral and facial areas making them uniquely qualified in the administration of Botox injections.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz of Foutz Family Dentistry in Henderson, Nevada is highly trained in head and neck musculature and has extensive knowledge and experience administering injections in and around the face. For years, Dr. Foutz has provided patients with therapeutic Botox injections that have provided invaluable relief from migraines, chronic headaches, TMJ tension, and jaw pain. For more information about Botox and how it can help with headaches or TMJ, call our office today at (702) 792-5929 to set up a consultation with Dr. Foutz.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

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I’m Older, Why Should I Consider Straightening My Teeth?

Straightening your teeth is a worthwhile investment and commitment for people of any age. Often times adults and senior citizens believe that they cannot take measures to straighten their teeth simply because of their age, however, healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Teeth straightening options such as Invisalign are not only options for teenagers; it is both a viable and recommended option for older adults wishing they had straighter teeth.

Benefits Of Straighter Teeth

People of all generations can have crooked, misaligned teeth that can affect more than just a person’s smile. Crooked teeth are often a major reason for low self-image and low self-confidence. Having straighter teeth can help adults to regain self-esteem simply by giving them the confidence to smile openly and freely. A person with straighter teeth who is more inclined to smile are likely to pursue social opportunities and have more positive interactions with other people. A beautiful smile is an invaluable feature for a person of any age to feel proud of.

Straighter teeth can also provide important health benefits for older adults. Crooked, misaligned, or crowded teeth can make it harder for a person to thoroughly clean their teeth with regular brushing and flossing. This gives an increased opportunity for dental problems such as cavities, tooth decay or gum disease.  Straightening teeth can even help to improve chronic headaches and chronic neck or jaw pain.

Henderson Invisalign For Older Adults

Teeth can be straightened at any age using a number of techniques such as traditional braces or clear aligners. At Foutz Family Dentistry, we trust in the Invisalign orthodontic system and highly recommend it for adults of any age wishing they had straighter teeth.

Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners designed to gradually straighten teeth by put varying amount of pressure on teeth. Each aligner is used for approximately two weeks and then a patient is switched to a new one. Aligners are produced using 3-D computer imaging that plans out a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan.

Invisalign is a great option for adults and senior citizens because it straightens teeth without anyone knowing, allows you to eat or drink whatever you want, does not affect brushing or flossing habits, and is comfortable.

For more information about Invisalign treatment available at Foutz Family Dentistry, call our office today at (702) 792-5929.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

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Sleep Apnea And The Dental Connection

Those with sleep apnea experience shallow breathing while they sleep or may even stop breathing for a short moment. There are two types of sleep apnea, but obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common and occurs when throat muscles excessively relax and cause the airway to collapse. This then blocks airflow and affects breathing. This potentially dangerous condition affects over 18 million people in the United States and yet it is incredibly under diagnosed. Research has shown that sleep apnea can often be diagnosed quicker by a dentist or dental hygienist rather than by a person’s primary care physician.

Typical Signs of Sleep Apnea

 Sleep apnea can affect anyone at any age and is most often accompanied by the following symptoms:

  • Excessive Snoring
  • Poor Sleep Quality
  • Waking Up Frequently During The Night
  • Fatigue
  • Waking Up Feeling Tired
  • Sleepiness Or Drowsiness During Daytime
  • Dry Mouth
  • Sore Throat
  • Headaches
  • Difficulty Concentrating
  • Neck And Shoulder Pain

Dental Signs Of Sleep Apnea

 Due to routine dental cleanings, people will typically see their dentist more often than they do their doctor. A dentist or dental hygienist will notice some key signs of sleep apnea such as

 

  • Tooth Grinding
  • Jaw Pain
  • Enlarged Tongue
  • Small Jaw
  • Tongue With Scalloped Edges
  • Redness In The Throat
  • Dry Mouth
  • Pain While Chewing
  • Worn, Cracked, Broken Or Missing Teeth
  • Periodontal (Gum) Disease

Tooth grinding and jaw pain are two of the first and most common dental of sleep apnea. Both result from a person reflexively tensing their jaw in their sleep as they body attempts to prevent the airway from feeling blocked. Both issues can lead to other problems such as worn or cracked teeth and pain when chewing. A person with sleep apnea is also likely to snore quite a bit, which can lead to redness in the throat or persistent dry mouth.

Family Dentistry Henderson

During routine cleanings or dental checkups, a dentist or dental hygienist will likely notice if you have developed any of these signs or if they are continuing or worsening. While a dentist is able to identify the signs of possible sleep apnea and will likely be well informed, they are not able to make an official diagnosis. If a dentist is concerned that sleep apnea may be an issue, you will likely be referred to your primary care physician or a sleep disorder specialist for a sleep study.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz and his team of experienced dental hygienists have sufficient knowledge about the signs of sleep apnea, along with years of experience to help identify a potential problem. If you are currently experiencing some of the above mentioned symptoms for sleep apnea, make an appointment at Foutz Family Dentistry today and we will thoroughly check your teeth, gums and mouth for the dental signs of sleep apnea. While Dr. Foutz is not able to make an official diagnosis or treat you for sleep apnea, he can help you get on the right path to address this condition.

At Foutz Family Dentistry, we strongly recommend and encourage our patients to remain diligent about routine dental cleanings and exams. Doing so will not only ensure your dental and oral health, but can also help in identifying other potential health concerns.  Call our office today at (702) 792-5929 to schedule an appointment.

 Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

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Ezbond A. Foutz, D.D.S.
4 Generations of Dentists Spanning 3 Centuries
1st Generation:

Great Grandfather

Dr. Ezbond A. Foutz
Harold B. Foutz, D.D.S.
4 Generations of Dentists Spanning 3 Centuries
2nd Generation:

Grandfather

Dr. Harold B. Foutz
Lawrence C. Foutz, D.D.S.
4 Generations of Dentists Spanning 3 Centuries
3rd Generation:

Father

Dr. Lawrence C. Foutz
Barton H. Foutz, D.D.S.
4 Generations of Dentists Spanning 3 Centuries
4th Generation:

Family and Cosmetic Dentist

Dr. Barton H. Foutz