Austin Laser Dentist - Helen Ragsdale DDS, 11615 Angus Rd Ste 101, Austin 78759, United States (US) - Phone: 512 346-4690

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Keep Dentures Longer with These Tips and Tricks

A picture of dentures laying on a table to demonstrate teeth replacement options in Austin, TX

Dentures are a great way to address significant tooth loss. These restorative dental prosthetics help patients replace entire arches of missing teeth, which helps restore their speaking and chewing functions. But, more than that, dentures can help boost patients’ confidence in their smiles, allowing them to live their lives to the fullest. 

If you’re living with missing teeth, it’s time to talk to a skilled dentist in Austin, TX. Our gentle dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale, can help you explore all of your restorative options at Austin Laser Dentist. Patients can talk to our team and request appointments by calling (512) 346-4690 now!

Dentures are not an inexpensive oral prosthetic. Indeed, they are an investment in your oral health, and they should be properly cared for to ensure their longevity. In this blog, we share some helpful tips and tricks for making your dentures last longer.

Denture Longevity Tips and Tricks

There are plenty of things we can do to get the most out of our prosthetics. Let’s review them now.

Proper Cleaning

Regular cleaning is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your dentures. Just like natural teeth, dentures can accumulate plaque and bacteria, leading to discoloration, bad breath, and even infections.

Make sure to clean your dentures daily with a denture brush and mild soap or denture cleaner.

Soaking

Soaking your dentures in a denture cleaner or solution overnight can help remove stubborn stains and bacteria. However, be sure to always avoid using hot water. Hot water can warp the prosthesis, ultimately ruining the device.

Handle with Care

Dentures are delicate and can easily break or crack if mishandled. When removing or inserting dentures, do it carefully, and avoid using excessive force. 

Always place a towel or cushion on the counter to prevent the dentures from falling and breaking.

Regular Check-Ups

Visit your dentist regularly to ensure that:

  • -Your dentures fit properly 
  • -They are in good working condition
  • -Your gums and jaws are healthy

Your dentist can identify any potential issues early on and make the necessary adjustments before they become huge problems.

Avoid Abrasive Products

Using abrasive products (like harsh, whitening toothpastes, hard-bristled toothbrushes, or acidic cleansers) can damage dentures. Stick to using mild products specifically designed for dentures to avoid causing damage (here is a list of ADA-approved dentures products).

Be Careful with Food

Dentures are not as strong as natural teeth. So, avoid eating hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can damage or dislodge the dentures. Cut your food into small pieces and chew slowly to prevent any accidents.

Store Dentures Properly

When not wearing your dentures, store them in a clean, safe place (keeping them wet is always preferable, too!). Avoid leaving them in hot or cold temperatures. Always keep your dentures out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidental damage.

Don’t Attempt Repairs Yourself

If your dentures become damaged or broken, do not try to fix them yourself. Do-It-Yourself repairs can cause further damage and make the dentures unusable. Always seek professional help from your dentist.

Traditional and Implant-Supported Dentures in Austin, TX

Taking care of your dentures is essential for maintaining their longevity and ensuring their continued function. If you’re interested in seeing if dentures are right for you, then contact Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist. Patients can reach our dental office in Austin, TX, online here or at (512) 346-4690.

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Here’s Why Your Dentist Recommended a Dental Bridge

dental bridge being attached to dental implants

A dental bridge is a common restorative dental device that dentists can use to help patients replace one or more missing teeth. Typically, a traditional bridge uses two dental crowns on either side of a false tooth (or teeth) to keep it stable. However, many patients choose implant-supported bridges for extra stability and comfort.

Are you living with an incomplete smile? Let Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist in Austin, TX, help you restore your smile, confidence, and health. Want more information? Request details and appointments at (512) 346-4690 now!

At first blush, it is easy to assume that a dentist may recommend a dental bridge simply for cosmetic reasons. However, there are several reasons why a dentist might recommend this restorative device. Let’s go over these reasons now.

Improve Your Appearance

One of the most obvious reasons for getting a dental bridge is to improve your appearance. 

For some patients, missing teeth can make them feel self-conscious when smiling or talking. A dental bridge can fill the gap and give them a more natural-looking smile.

Restore Your Functionality

Missing teeth can affect your ability to chew and speak as you normally would. A dental bridge can restore the functionality of your teeth, which can improve your ability to eat and speak more naturally.

Prevent Other Teeth from Shifting

When there is a gap between your teeth, the surrounding teeth can shift and move out of place. This can worsen dental problems and make it harder to properly clean your teeth. 

A tooth bridge can prevent teeth from shifting by keeping your remaining teeth in place.

Maintain Your Facial Shape

Our teeth provide necessary support for our facial muscles. Without them, our cheeks and lips may sag. As a result, missing teeth can make us appear older than we really are.

A dental bridge can help maintain the shape of your face by giving facial muscles an appropriate place to rest. The trade-off is a more youthful appearance that boosts your self-esteem.

Distribute Bite Force More Evenly

Teeth are designed to work together to distribute the force of your bite evenly. When you are missing some teeth, the remaining teeth have to work harder to compensate for the missing ones. This can cause your remaining teeth to wear down faster than anticipated.

A dental bridge can distribute the bite force evenly and prevent premature wear and tear on your teeth.

A Dental Bridge Is a Cost-Effective and Long-Lasting Solution

Compared to other dental procedures, bridges are a cost-effective solution for replacing missing teeth. They are also extremely durable, making them an ideal tooth-replacement option for at least five years.

Need a dental bridge in Austin, TX? We can help!

From improving your appearance to restoring your functionality, bridges are a cost-effective, long-lasting, and comfortable solution to replace missing teeth. Are you ready to speak with our dentist in Austin, TX, about your options? Request an appointment with Dr. Ragsdale online here or at (512) 346-4690 now!

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How to Increase the Lifespan of Your Dental Bridge

dental bridge being attached to dental implants

A dental bridge is a popular solution for replacing missing teeth, especially one or more missing teeth in a row. They consist of artificial teeth which a dentist attaches to neighboring natural teeth or dental implants. As a restorative dentistry treatment, teeth bridges are a long-term investment in your oral health.

Replacing missing teeth is key to maintaining good oral and systemic health for life. So, if you’re living with tooth loss, then it’s time to restore your smile at Austin Laser Dentist. Patients can request appointments with Dr. Helen Ragsdale in Austin, TX, by calling (512) 346-4690 now!

It is important to take proper care of oral prosthetics to ensure they last as long as possible. In this blog post, we discuss how to increase the lifespan of a dental bridge to save you valuable time and money.

Always Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Practicing good oral hygiene is the most important step in maintaining the lifespan of a dental bridge. Be sure to:

  • -Floss your teeth and under the bridge at least once a day
  • -Brush at least twice a day
  • -Drink plenty of water throughout the day
  • -Limit sugary and acidic treats 

Our Austin dentist recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth and bridge. Also, patients consider using an interdental brush or water flosser to clean around the bridge.

Avoid Overly Hard or Sticky Foods

Hard and sticky foods can damage a dental bridge or cause it to become loose. Hard foods that can crack or damage a bridge may include:

  • -Hard candy
  • -Popcorn kernels
  • -Nuts

But, hard foods aren’t the only foods to avoid. Patients should also avoid very sticky foods, such as:

  • -Caramel
  • -Taffy
  • -Chewing gum

Instead of these foods, we recommend choosing softer, healthier foods that are easier on your teeth and bridge, such as:

  • -Lean proteins
  • -Cooked vegetables
  • -Fresh fruits
  • -Dairy products
  • -Cooked legumes 

Choose Dental Bridge Cleaning Products Wisely

While it is important to clean your dental bridge, be cautious with the cleaning products that you use. For example, patients should avoid abrasive toothpastes or cleaning agents, which can scratch or damage the bridge. Instead, patients should use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the bridge.

Don’t Use Tobacco Products

Tobacco products can have a negative impact on your oral health and the lifespan of a dental bridge. We recommend quitting all tobacco products (including smokeless), even if you don’t have a dental prosthetic. 

Protect Your Teeth and Dental Bridge with a Mouthguard

If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your dental bridge. Custom-fitted mouthguards fit snugly over the teeth and prosthetic, which protects them from injury and bruxism. 

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Frequent visits to your dentist are a great way to avoid dental issues. These visits also help keep dental prosthetics in optimal working order. We recommend visiting your dentist at least two times a year to get the most out of your dental bridge.

Ask Us If a Dental Bridge Is Right For You

A dental bridge is a long-term investment in your oral and overall health. If you want your appliance to last for 10 years or longer, then regular dental appointments are key. Schedule an appointment at Austin Laser Dentist in Austin, TX, by submitting a request here or by dialing (512) 346-4690 now!

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Seven Restorative Dentistry Treatments for a Healthy Smile

A beautiful smile following restorative dentistry treatments in Austin, TX
A beautiful smile following restorative dentistry treatments in Austin, TX

A healthy smile is not only important for aesthetic reasons but also for overall health. Restorative dentistry (learn more about restorative dentistry here) is a field of medicine that focuses on restoring and repairing damaged teeth to their natural health, function, and appearance. 

Is your smile in need of repair? The team at Austin Laser Dentist can help. New and existing patients can schedule appointments with our restoration dentist in Austin, TX, at (512) 346-4690. And don’t forget to ask about our in-house dental plan!

In this blog, we explore the various restorative dentistry treatments available for a healthy smile. Understanding your options can help you make the healthiest choice for your smile, budget, and lifestyle.

White Fillings

Dental fillings are one of the most common restorative dentistry treatments. Dentists use them to repair cavities, worn dental enamel, and damaged teeth. 

Traditionally, dentists used metal fillings to restore teeth. Today, however, modern dentists use white fillings to seamlessly restore the function and appearance of teeth.

TMJ Treatment

The temporomandibular joint (often called the jaw joint) helps us open and close our mouths. This is important for:

  • – Speaking
  • – Chewing and eating
  • – Yawning

Overuse and prolonged tension on this joint can lead to pain and dysfunction, also known as a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). Simple restorative dentistry solutions (like a custom-made night guard!) can protect the teeth and jaws against destructive TMDs.

Bruxism Treatment

Oftentimes, bruxism and TMDs go hand-in-hand. Bruxism is the unintentional clenching and grinding of the teeth, often while slumbering. This behavior can lead to or worsen a TMD. 

Similar to TMJ treatment, a personalized night guard can help cushion the teeth against bruxism. In turn, bruxism treatment may be the best way to prevent or manage a TMD.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are a restorative dentistry treatment that is ideal for restoring severely damaged teeth. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that a skilled dentist places over the damaged tooth to restore its function and appearance. 

Dental Bridges

As a restorative dentistry treatment, dental bridges can replace one or more missing teeth. Bridges secure their position in the mouth with the help of neighboring teeth or with surgically-implanted titanium posts.

Dentures

Dentures are perfect for addressing sporadic or total tooth loss. They come in full, partial, removable, and permanent options. Dentists custom-make dentures to fit comfortably in the mouth to help restore their patients’ chewing and speaking functions.

Dental Implants

A dental implant is a small titanium post that a trained dental professional surgically inserts into the jawbone. The implant serves as an anchor for dental restorations, such as:

  • – Crowns
  • – Bridges
  • – Dentures

Implants provide a permanent solution for missing teeth and help maintain the structure of the jawbone.

Restorative Dentistry in Austin, TX

When it comes to restorative dentistry, you have options. So, come explore the possibilities with the team at Austin Laser Dentist! We can help you choose restorative treatments that benefit your health, smile, and budget.

Get started with our dentist in Austin, TX, by calling (512) 346-4690. Don’t have time to chat? No problem! Simply request an appointment online here.

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Cracked or chipped tooth? Here’s what you should know.

Our teeth are unbelievably strong. But, an ill-placed popcorn kernel or accident can leave us with a cracked or chipped tooth. Leaving injured teeth unprotected can lead to further dental damage, and, potentially, painful tooth infections and permanent tooth loss. Luckily, Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist can help patients quickly and comfortably repair chipped or cracked teeth with high-quality dental restorations.

Don’t leave damaged teeth vulnerable–schedule an appointment to repair your smile now. Simply send our team a message online here, or call our Austin, TX, dental clinic at (512) 346-4690 for scheduling.

Meanwhile, let’s discuss what you should do after experiencing a chipped tooth. From the moment it happens to the moment you visit our Austin dentist, we’ll guide you along every step of the way.

What to Do Immediately After a Cracked or Chipped Tooth

First, do not panic. Remain calm and assess the situation. If there are any pieces of broken tooth still in the mouth, then carefully remove and save them. Is the tooth cracked but intact? Then, leave it alone.

If there is excessive bleeding and pain, then head to the nearest emergency room to get urgent care. Otherwise, patients can use over-the-counter painkillers, ice packs, and light pressure to mitigate pain, swelling, and bleeding.

Next, patients should protect their mouths. A chipped tooth can be extremely sharp. Therefore, patients should avoid further injury by covering the damaged tooth with dental wax or sugar-free gum.

Once the mouth is protected against sharp, broken teeth, patients should call our dentist in Austin immediately. The sooner patients visit our clinic, the better and faster we can repair a damaged smile.

How to Fix a Cracked or Chipped Tooth

When it comes to repairing a cracked or chipped tooth, patients typically have three options, including:

  • Dental bonding
  • Dental crowns
  • Porcelain veneers

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding (also called white fillings) uses a strong, biocompatible material made from composite resin to fill in chips and cracks. The composite resin is tooth-colored, so patients can seamlessly repair their smiles without any noticeable difference in their appearance.

Tooth bonding is a long-lasting solution to address chipped or cracked teeth. Experts believe that dental bonding can last for decades with the proper care.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns (also called caps) are an effective way to repair significant cracks and chips in teeth. The tooth-shaped crowns completely cover damaged teeth, which protects teeth from further damage while enhancing their performance, functionality, and aesthetics.

From porcelain to metal, patients have many options to restore their smiles with dental caps. Regardless of the material used, patients can expect to enjoy their tooth crowns for at least ten years.  

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic option. But, they offer numerous restorative benefits, too. In fact, porcelain veneers may be the best option to address a chipped tooth, particularly if tooth sensitivity and smile flaws are underlying issues.

These protective coverings can enhance the appearance and function of patients’ smiles for decades with the proper care, such as:

  • Once-daily flossing
  • Twice-daily brushing
  • Routine dental exams and cleanings

Ask Us How to Fix a Cracked or Chipped Tooth Today

Don’t leave dental damage unchecked–schedule an appointment with our restoration dentist in Austin, TX, today. Patients can request their appointments by calling Austin Laser Dentist at (512) 346-4690 or by submitting a message online here.