Schedule an Appointment
Dental Emergency?

General Dentistry

What Should I Know About Teeth Whitening?

by
adobestock 245603787

Professional whitening is effective at removing years of stains and discoloration from the teeth. Whether you’re looking to boost your confidence or are going to be attending a wedding, reunion or another big event, a bright and white smile is sure to improve your appearance. Expert whitening is performed in our office or provided to you using a professional-grade take-home kit. Whitening results can last for months to one or more years, and maintaining your results is key to ensuring that you’ll always have a gorgeous smile.

Why Should I Whiten My Teeth?

There are many factors that come into play when it comes to the whiteness and brightness of your smile. If you’re a smoker, drink a lot of coffee, tea or cola or you’re taking certain medications, you’ll notice that your teeth aren’t as white as they used to be. Likewise, just the act of aging can have a serious impact on the way that your smile looks. By professionally whitening your teeth, you can expect dramatic results that help to increase your self-esteem and confidence.

How Often Should Teeth Whitening Be Done?

It is best to avoid whitening your teeth too often. Over-whitening your teeth can lead to issues with hypersensitivity or even cause the teeth to look translucent. It is often recommended that you only whiten your teeth, whether at home or professionally, once a year. This prevents issues involving sensitivity and helps in creating a natural-looking smile. The benefit of utilizing professional whitening is that results typically last for about one year. This simply means that you won’t feel the need to touch-up or go with another whitening system because of how drastic the change is when using a professional whitening option.

Interested in Finding Out More?

The best way to prevent the need for touch-ups is to avoid future staining and discoloration of the teeth. If you’re a smoker, now is the best time to quit and a great way to extend the length of your results. Try to avoid drinking too many dark liquids, like coffee and cola, and opt for water instead. You may want to consider using a whitening toothpaste so help clear away stains and discoloration before they are able to get worse. Be sure to speak with the experts about whitening and always discuss when the last time you whitened your teeth actually was before retreatment.

To get in touch with us please contact our office and our staff will be happy to help!

How Can I Fix a Chipped Tooth?

by
general dentists

Chipped or injured teeth are typically considered a dental emergency. We offer many cosmetic services, and have years of experience in cosmetic dentistry. If you have a chipped tooth, you may wonder how quick you can get the tooth fixed. Luckily, there are a few different treatment options to retore your tooth back to normal.

We encourage anyone who has chipped their tooth to contact our office right away. We offer a flexible schedule, and can get you in as soon as possible. In the meantime, we recommend patients can take over the counter pain medication to alleviate any pain. Eat soft foods, and avoid biting down on the damaged tooth.

How Can We Repair a Chipped Tooth?

Depending on the severity of the damage will determine what treatment option is best. If the chip is small a single visit to our office may only be needed. If the tooth is badly damaged, additional treatment and multiple visits to our office may be required.

Bonding or Filling

We can apply a tooth-colored composite resin to help repair your tooth. Bonding is a simple procedure and requires no local anesthesia. To prepare the tooth we file down the area and apply an adhesive. The resin is then applied on top to restore your tooth. Bonding is the color of your natural teeth, and can be formed to match the shape of your surrounding teeth. An ultraviolet light is used to cure or harden the bonding material.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers can restore teeth that are chipped or broken. Veneers are a thin shell of composite material or porcelain that is placed over your tooth. They are customized to match the color and shape of your teeth, and look natural. The veneers are placed on your teeth using a cement material.

Dental Crown

If your tooth is severely damaged a dental crown may be necessary. We will prepare the tooth by filing away the area so the crown fits snug over your tooth. Crowns protect weak teeth from breaking down further, and look natural in the mouth. Crowns can be customized to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth. Typically, crowns are placed after a root canal. If your tooth is damaged down to the pulp area, and there is an infection, a root canal may be necessary to save your tooth.

Interested in Finding Out More?

Preparing for an emergency is important, and knowing where to go can help ease stress during an emergency situation. Make sure to do your research ahead of time so you are prepared in the event of an emergency. Our dental office accommodates dental emergencies, and our patients are in good hands should they need emergency care.

If patients have questions about our emergency procedures and services we encourage you to call our office. Our friendly dentist in Norfolk can answer any questions you may have.

To get in touch with us please contact our office and our staff will be happy to help!

How Come Some People Get Cavities Easier Than Others?

by
swollen gums

Cavities are always something we try to avoid with brushing and flossing each day. You may notice you get cavities frequently and others don’t. This doesn’t seem fair, but there are other factors that play into keeping your teeth free of decay that you may not realize. There are ways to reduce your risk for cavities outside of brushing and flossing regularly.

Why Are Some Prone to Cavities More Than Others?

  • Diet – Reducing the amount of sugar you eat or drink can help prevent cavities. Your chance of getting cavities increases if you eat or drink foods with a high amount of sugar.
  • Gum Recession – If you suffer from gum disease and your gums are receding, the root of the tooth is exposed. Bacteria can reach the root area of the tooth and cavities can develop more easily.
  • Dry Mouth – If you tend to have a dry mouth your risk for decay increases. We need saliva to wash away bacteria in our mouths.
  • Genetics – Unfortunately some people are born with a tendency to develop cavities more frequently than others. This is because some people are more susceptible to a certain type of cavity causing bacteria.

How Can I Reduce My Risk for Cavities?

There are things you can do to help reduce your risk for cavities. This doesn’t mean you will never have a cavity again, but it does mean you are changing your habits, and putting forth a good effort to try and prevent decay from developing.

  • Regular Visits to Your Dentist – Make sure you attend your regular visits to your dentist. These exams help to identify potential cavities, and allow the dentist to get in front of issues before they become worse.
  • Reduce Sugars in Your Diet – Try and stay away from foods or drinks that are high in sugar.
  • Keep Up With Oral Hygiene – Stay on top of your oral hygiene with brushing and flossing at least twice a day. This will help prevent plaque buildup that causes decay.
  • Use a Toothpaste With Fluoride – Using a toothpaste that contains fluoride can help prevent tooth decay.
  • Use Mouthwash – Mouthwash can help rinse away bacteria, and if the wash contains fluoride this can help prevent cavities.

Knowing what you can do to help prevent cavities can help you avoid many trips to the dentist. Taking care of our teeth is very important, and can help avoid dental issues. Always practice good oral hygiene habits to keep your teeth and mouth feeling great.

At our office we discuss what patients are doing at home to help prevent decay. Our staff provides tips and tricks to help our patients keep their teeth looking great. Taking care of your teeth and gums is important, and can avoid serious issues from developing. If you have not been to our office for your regular dental exam, we encourage you to schedule your appointment.

Ready to Find Out More About Cavities Easier Treatment?

If you are interested in finding out more about root canal treatment and how this can benefit you, contact The Foleck Center. Our doctors have years of experience in root canal therapy, and always make your oral health a priority. We provide a calm and welcoming environment using state of the art technology. Our practice is accepting new patients, and we welcome you to join our dental family. Come experience quality dentistry you can trust, and let our team help you take control of your oral health.

To schedule your appointment with us, contact The Foleck Center, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

What’s Better for a Tooth Cavity? A Dental Filling or a Root Canal?

by
adobestock 243244426

When patients have cavities the surface of the tooth is permanently damaged, and tiny holes develop. They can be caused by bacteria, the food you eat or drink, and poor oral hygiene. The severity of the decay, and the condition of the tooth will determine what course of treatment is best. We provide many services for our patients, and your health is our first priority.

Our team will always try and save your tooth, and clear away any infection. Many patients come to us with symptoms noting something is wrong, but in some cases cavities are found during our normal dental exams.

If you have extensive decay, and the infection has reached the pulp area of the tooth, a root canal may be needed. Both fillings and root canals are great ways to save teeth, and prevent further decay or infection. We always choose the best treatment option depending on the condition of the tooth.

When is a Tooth Filling Needed?

Tooth fillings are used for smaller cavities that have not reached the pulp of the tooth. Fractured teeth that are not infected can also be saved using a filling. The area of decay is cleaned out, and then filled with a tooth-colored composite material. This material keeps the tooth intact, and helps to prevent further issues with the tooth in the future.

What Are Some Symptoms That Indicate I May Need a Dental Filling?

Here are some symptoms and signs that may indicate that you may need to get a dental filling:

Sharp or throbbing pain in or around a tooth

Your tooth is changing color, or spots can be seen on the surface of the tooth

You experience pain while chewing or biting

Your tooth is cracked or injured

You have a cracked or missing filling

When is a Root Canal Needed?

Root canals may be needed if they area of decay is severe, and the infection has reached the pulp area of the tooth. If a tooth is injured or cracked, and has been left untreated, the tooth may have an infection and need root canal therapy. With root canal therapy the infected pulp area is cleaned out and sealed to restore the tooth. If needed, a dental crown may be used to fully restore the tooth’s functionality.

What Are Some Symptoms That Indicate I May Need a Root Canal?

Here are some symptoms and signs that may indicate that you may need to get a root canal:

You experience severe tooth pain

Gums are tender and swollen around the tooth

Extreme sensitivity to hot and cold

Chewing or putting pressure on the tooth causes severe pain

The tooth has changed color

A bump has appeared on the gum area around the tooth

Looking for Root Canals and Dental Fillings?

Our team always makes our patient’s health a priority. Leaving teeth untreated can lead to further decay, and infections can become worse. Attending your regular dental exams in our office will help to maintain your oral health, and diagnose or treat any issues before they become a problem.

During our exam we check existing restorations, and look to see if you have any areas of decay that need a tooth filling or root canal. Treatment is determined based on how severe the area of decay is, and the condition of your tooth.

We use the highest level of technology and provide many General Dental Treatments. We provide quality dental care in a relaxing and calm environment. If you need a dental exam, or feel you have an issue with a tooth, make us your choice for dental care.

Looking for a Dentist Near You?

If you are looking for a dentist near you that offers orthodontic treatment, dentist in Coliseum Central can help. Our doctors have years of experience in orthodontics, and we provide the highest level of service to all of our patients. Don’t live with crooked teeth, let our team help you get on the road to a beautiful smile. Correcting your smile can boost confidence, and allow you to feel great around others.

To schedule your orthodontic consultation with us, contact The Foleck Center, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How Soon Can I Work After Getting a Root Canal?

by
root canal

Root canals can help save a tooth and are a common procedure done today. Most patients can return to their normal activities directly after their root canal procedure. Patients should plan to rest the day of their root canal procedure, and most can return to work the very next day. Our bodies need proper healing time, and this time can vary between patients.

In most cases we recommend patients can return to work the day after their root canal procedure. Our dentist in downtown Hampton will discuss after care treatment with you, and answer any post treatment recovery questions you have. We will give you tips on what to do during recovery, and we always recommend calling our office if you have any prolonged pain after your procedure.

What Can I Do Immediately After My Root Canal Treatment To Help With Pain or Swelling?

  • Take over the counter medications or antibiotics if recommended by your doctor.
  • Use cold packs on the area to help with swelling and pain.
  • Follow a soft food diet until the area is healed, and avoid chewing on the tooth that was repaired.

After your root canal procedure, you may experience pain or sensitivity, but this should subside after a few days. Following our after-care guidelines is important, and can help with your recovery. If you have had any type of anesthesia during your root canal, you should avoid operating any machinery for at least 24 hours.

Patients will return home with the area still numb, but this should wear off. Depending on how you feel, and the pain afterwards, will determine if you can return to work the next day. Most patients can resume normal activity directly after their root canal treatment.

Ready to Find Out More About Root Canal Treatment?

If you are interested in finding out more about root canal treatment and how this can benefit you, contact The Foleck Center. Our doctors have years of experience in root canal therapy, and always make your oral health a priority. We provide a calm and welcoming environment using state of the art technology. Our practice is accepting new patients, and we welcome you to join our dental family. Come experience quality dentistry you can trust, and let our team help you take control of your oral health.

To schedule your appointment with us, contact The Foleck Center, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How Do I Get Rid of Bad Breath?

by
bad breath

Many people suffer from chronic bad breath or halitosis. Bad breath is something you do not want to be known for, and typically finding the cause is easy. If you suffer from bad breath but also brush, floss, or gargle each day the cause may not be obvious. Taking the time to figure out the underlying problem that may be causing your bad breath is important, and finding a cure can be simple.

Common Cause of Bad Breath

Dental Hygiene

The first area patients should focus on is their dental hygiene habits. Gum or mints are only a short term solution, and finding the cause is the only way you can truly get relief from bad breath. Looking at your dental hygiene is a great place to start because dental hygiene is the most common cause of chronic bad breath. About 85% of bad breath comes from inside the mouth. If you do not brush and floss daily, bacteria can get left behind and cause issues with your breath. Bacteria eats the leftover food particles in your mouth, and as a result leaves a foul smelling odor in your mouth and on your teeth.

Devices

If patients wear retainers, dentures, or mouthguards while they sleep, these devices can trap bacteria or food particles if not cleaned properly. This can attribute to halitosis or chronic bad breath. Taking care of your teeth and mouth is extremely important for your overall and oral health, and can prevent issues such as bad breath that could be embarrassing around others.

Cavities or Infection

If you suffer from cavities or have an infection lingering in your mouth that has not been treated, this can cause bad breath. Attending regular visits to our office for your dental cleaning and exam is important. Our skilled staff can get in front of issues such as cavities or infections and prevent further problems in the future. If patients have issues with their tonsils or throat, this can cause bad breath, and can be from an infection such as strep throat. Patients should seek treatment from their primary care physician if they feel there is an issue with their tonsils or throat.

Dry Mouth or Dehydration

Dehydration or dry mouth is a common cause of bad breath. Saliva and water wash away bacteria or food particles. If your mouth is not hydrated this reduces saliva and can cause halitosis. Our saliva contains pertinent minerals and proteins that help defend against bacteria. Staying hydrated is important to keep our mouth healthy and to prevent bad breath.

Other Possible Causes for Bad Breath

  • Diabetes
  • Throat or mouth cancer
  • Sinus infection
  • Digestive issues
  • Acid reflux
  • Lung infection 
  • Liver disease

What Can I Do to Cure My Bad Breath?

  • Brush and floss two times a day
  • Use an antimicrobial rinse daily
  • Tongue scrape daily to remove bacteria
  • Remove any devices and clean them thoroughly
  • Visit our dental office for regular cleanings and exams
  • Review your diet and try and stick to eating healthy foods
  • Drink water and stay hydrated
  • Avoid tobacco products

Looking For Help With Chronic Bad Breath?

There are many simple solutions to cure bad breath. We encourage you to make an appointment for an exam in our office to discuss your concerns. Our skilled dentist in Virginia Beach can help give you tips, and our thorough dental exam can help identify any issues you may have that could be causing chronic bad breath. If you have already tried simple solutions and still notice your bad breath does not go away, we may advise you make an appointment to see your primary care physician. 

If you are interested in finding a solution to cure bad breath we can help. To schedule your appointment contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!