Sunday 28 December 2014

Get Familiar With Oral Thrush

What Is Oral Thrush?
Oral thrush, also known as candidiasis, can occur in anyone of any age, from babies to the elderly. Oral thrush is a condition that occurs when a fungus called candida albicans builds up on the lining of the mouth. The result is white lesions on the tongue or inner cheeks.

Oral thrush can sometimes be confused with leukoplakia. But leukoplakia lesions are caused by chronic irritation from rough edges on teeth, fillings or crowns, not by an organism. And leukoplakia lesions develop over time, while thrush lesions may develop suddenly. A thrush infection can spread and involve the roof of the mouth and the gums, where it can cause symptoms such as redness and irritation. See your dentist if you have any type of lesions on your tongue or in your mouth so you can determine the cause of the problem and plan a course of treatment. The goal in treating thrush is to stop the infection from spreading.

Healthy babies and children may not need treatment-the lesions may resolve on their own. Sometimes adding yogurt to you or your childís diet may do the trick and reset the bacterial imbalance caused by the excess amount of the thrush fungus.

People with HIV or other immunosuppressive illness are at increased risk for the infection to spread. If you are in this category, your doctor or dentist may recommend an antifungal medication.

To prevent thrush from occurring or recurring, follow a consistent oral health care routine, and try to include yogurt with live, active cultures in your diet, especially if you take antibiotics for a chronic condition. Frequent use of antibiotics can promote the growth of the Candida fungus because they upset the natural mixture of microorganisms in the body.

The above article is from: OralB.com

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 


Sunday 21 December 2014

Recognizing and Treating Oral Thrush

Recognizing and Treating Oral Thrush
Oral thrush, also known oral candidiasis, is a condition that occurs when a fungus called Candida albicans builds up on the lining of your mouth.

Anyone can develop oral thrush, but babies, young children, older adults, or anyone with a compromised immune system due to an illness such as HIV are more susceptible. Conversely, candidiasis lesions can be an early sign of an HIV infection.

The main symptom of oral thrush is creamy white lesions in the mouth, usually on the tongue or inner cheeks. In some cases, the lesions may appear on the roof of the mouth or on the back of the throat.

Interestingly, oral thrush is not caused by poor oral hygiene. Thrush is caused when the naturally occurring fungi in the body get out of balance, which is why the very old, very young, and people with weak immune systems are at higher risk. Good oral hygiene, however, is an essential part of treating oral thrush. Healthy adults and children can recover fairly easily from the infection, especially if they follow a complete oral care routine of twice-daily tooth brushing and daily proper flossing.

To read the entire article please visit: OralB.com

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 


Tuesday 2 December 2014

Tooth Abscess Symptoms And Treatment

Symptoms And Treatment Of Tooth Abscess
If you have a toothache that goes beyond mild to moderate tooth pain and reaches a level of severe, throbbing pain, it could be a sign of a tooth abscess. A tooth abscess is a pus-filled lesion at the roots of a tooth, and is caused by an infection. The first sign is a throbbing toothache that won’t go away.

At first, the tooth will likely be sensitive to chewing and biting, as well as to heat and cold. You also may develop a fever, swollen lymph nodes in your jaw or neck, or swelling on your face.

If the abscess ruptures, you’ll know because of the nasty-tasting discharge in your mouth. Although the pain may recede if the abscess ruptures, you still need to be treated by a dentist in order to get rid of the infection, save the tooth and avoid complications. If the abscess doesn’t rupture, the infection can spread to other parts of the body. This is not a problem to ignore.

Treatment will likely include draining the abscess if it hasn’t ruptured. Your dentist also may recommend that you take over-the-counter pain relievers, rinse your mouth with warm salt water, and take antibiotics. More severe abscesses may require a root canal to remove infected tissue, and the worst cases require extraction of the tooth.

A tooth abscess can get its start as an untreated tooth cavity, so the best way to prevent an abscess is to prevent the cavity in the first place by following a consistent oral health routine of twice daily tooth brushing and daily flossing. Regular visits to your dentist are important too, especially if you’ve been treated for an abscess. This allows your dentist to confirm that the infection has cleared.

The above article is from: OralB.com

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Friday 28 November 2014

Digital Dental X-Rays

Digital Dental Xrays Spokane Valley WA75% Reduction in Radiation

With one panoramic digital X-ray, an entire image can be taken of your mouth and be available for viewing immediately. This state-of-the-art technology results in less radiation – 75% less – without any waiting time for the image to develop. No chemicals are used, so there is no harm to the environment. 


Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com

Thursday 27 November 2014

Tuesday 25 November 2014

Causes and Treatment of Canker Sores

Cold Sores and Canker Sores Compared
It’s easy to confuse cold sores and canker sores.

Unlike a cold sore, a canker sore is not contagious, and it appears on the inside tissues of the mouth rather than the outer surface of the lip (which is where cold sores appear). A canker sore, also known as an apthous ulcer, looks like a small, round or oval lesion that has a white or yellowish center surrounded by red. They tend to be indented, like a crater, rather than raised, like a bump.

Canker sores most often appear on the inside of the cheeks and lips or at the base of the gum. Canker sores are not usually associated with bleeding gums, so if you are experiencing bleeding gums you should see your dentist to be evaluated for possible gum disease.

The majority of canker sores are mild. Mild canker sores are less than one-third of an inch long and usually heal on their own after a few weeks.

But major apthous ulcers, defined as larger than 10 mm in size, can take more than a month to heal and can cause scarring when they finally do heal. So it’s important to visit your doctor or dentist if you have a canker sore that has persisted for more than a few weeks. These large ulcers are most common in young adults after puberty, and they are more likely to recur than smaller sores. Older adults are more prone to herpetiform lesions, in which dozens of tiny lesions group together to form a large ulcer.

The exact cause of canker sores remains uncertain, but possible factors include an allergic reaction to bacteria in the mouth, a minor injury to the inside of the mouth due to dental work or poorly fitting dental appliances, food allergies or health problems, such as celiac disease and inflammatory bowel diseases.

Although most canker sores resolve on their own, if you have a large or stubborn lesion, your dentist may prescribe an antibiotic mouth rinse, topical paste to apply to the lesion, or a nutritional supplement if poor nutrition may be the cause of the canker sore.

The above article is from: OralB.com

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Friday 21 November 2014

Advanced Sterilization of Dental Tools

State-of-the-Art Sterilization

Proper sterilization is very important in our office, and we use a special unit called the autoclave to ensure the highest standards of cleanliness. Some tools are single-use and discarded. For those that are reused, the autoclave will always clean them to perfection, and an independent lab monitors this procedure to ensure all standards are met. You can be assured we will never take even the slightest risk when it comes to your good health. 



Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Tuesday 18 November 2014

What To Know About TMJ

What Are TMJ Diseases And Disorders? 
TMJ diseases and disorders are a group of conditions that cause pain in and around the jaw joint (called the Temporomandibular Joint or TMJ) and nearby muscles. Jaw problems affect a person's ability to speak, eat, chew, swallow and even breathe.

What Are Symptoms Of TMJ?
Pain is the most common symptom of TMJ; however, some people have no pain but still have problems using their jaws. Specific symptoms include:
Face pain
Pain in the jaw joint and nearby areas, including the ear
Back pain
Inability to open the mouth comfortably
Clicking, popping or grating sounds in the jaw joint
Locking of the jaw when attempting to open the mouth
Headaches
A bite that is uncomfortable or feels “off”
Swelling on the side of the face, neck or shoulder

Other symptoms may include ringing in the ears, decreased hearing, dizziness and vision problems.

Keep in mind that occasional discomfort in the jaw joint or chewing muscles is common and is not a cause for concern. Many people with TMJ problems get better without treatment. Often the problem goes away on its own in several weeks to months.

To read the entire article please visit: OralB.com

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Friday 14 November 2014

Digital Dental Imaging

Intra Oral CameraIntra-Oral Camera Makes You a Part of the Team

Dr. Ellsworth will always work together with you as a team. You will be a more informed participant in your dental decisions with the use of the intra-oral camera. This high-tech tool provides a close-up picture of your mouth, so you can see what work needs to be done and which teeth are just fine. As with our other patients, you will love how this works.


Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Thursday 13 November 2014

Sunday 2 November 2014

Common Myths of Gum Disease # 6

I have diabetes. Will I get gum disease
Diabetes is a chronic disease which affects your body's ability to process sugar. The resulting high blood sugar can cause problems with your eyes, nerves, kidneys, heart and other parts of your body. Diabetes can also lower your resistance to infection and can slow the healing process. If you have diabetes, you are at greater risk of developing some oral health problems, including gum disease, so it's important that you are extra diligent with your oral health.

The above article is from: MouthHealthy.org

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Thursday 30 October 2014

Teeth Whitening Dentist

Teeth Whitening - Smile Makeovers Spokane Valley WA
Teeth Whitening – Dazzling Results!
Bright, white teeth make you feel good about your appearance. The best way to whiten your teeth is with a professionally supervised bleaching process. Dr. Ellsworth produces individual whitening trays for patients and provides supplies and instructions to finish the procedure at home. It is a safe procedure that produces results within 1 - 14 days. 


Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Monday 27 October 2014

Periodontics

Learn more about Periodontics, which is the treatment of the tissue (gums) supporting and surrounding the teeth..



The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Sunday 26 October 2014

Common Myths of Gum Disease # 5

Bad breath can be an indicator of gum disease
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth can be an indicator of gum disease and other oral diseases so it is important that you uncover whatís causing the problem. If constantly have bad breath, make an appointment to see your dentist. Regular checkups allow your dentist to detect any problems as your bad breath may be the sign of a medical disorder. If your dentist determines that your mouth is healthy, you may be referred to your primary care physician.

The above article is from: MouthHealthy.org

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 


Thursday 23 October 2014

Kids Dentist Spokane Valley WA

Pediatric Dental Care in Spokane Valley WA
Your Child’s Dentist is Just as Important as Their Pediatrician
We emphasize the importance of instilling good dental hygiene habits in children. Children’s teeth are prone to cavities during their formative years for various reasons.

Kids do not always brush properly and need parental involvement to ensure they develop habits that clean their teeth correctly. They also tend to eat and drink throughout the day, often referred to as “grazing.” Every time you eat, you expose your teeth to acid from food and drink, which can create more cavities.

If a tooth is not cleaned properly to begin with, exposure to more acid will increase the rate of cavity development. An application of a mineralizing fluoride varnish will help to prevent the start of cavities, along with better selections of dietary choices and hygiene habits.


Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com

Monday 20 October 2014

Scaling and Root Planing

Learn more about Scaling and Root Planing to remove tartar and plaque below the gum line



The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Sunday 19 October 2014

Common Myths of Gum Disease # 4

Bleeding gums during pregnancy is normal
While it’s true that some women develop a condition known as “pregnancy gingivitis,” it’s not true that everyone experiences this. You can help prevent this condition by taking extra care during your brushing and flossing routine. Your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings to prevent this.

The above article is from: MouthHealthy.org

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Thursday 16 October 2014

Short Term Dental Braces

Cosmetic Dental Braces Dentist Spokane Valley WAStraight Teeth in Six Months – NOT Two or More Years!
Six Month Smiles _ Adult Dental BracesMany adults hesitate to have their teeth straightened because of the long-term commitment with traditional orthodontics. The idea of wearing braces long term would keep them embarrassed about their smiles for years.

With Six Month Smiles™ technology, we have the solution you have been waiting for. This is a revolutionary technique that repositions only the teeth that are noticeable when you smile. With this accelerated method, all the apparent problems of crowding, gaps, and overlapping can be corrected in six months or less!

Six Month Smiles is also barely visible. The brackets are clear and the wires white-colored. This type of orthodontics uses a low force that makes it comfortable for the wearer. Short treatment time means improved hygiene for a clean look when treatment is completed.

And the cost? Less expensive than traditional braces, aligners, or veneers. Get ready to welcome your new smile of straight teeth in just months!


Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com

Monday 13 October 2014

Endodontics

Learn more about Endodontics, which is the treatment of the pulp and nerves of a tooth.



The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Friday 3 October 2014

Common Myths of Gum Disease # 3

Having gum disease means I will lose my teeth
Not so! You don’t have to lose any of your teeth to gum disease if you practice good oral hygiene. That means brushing your teeth twice a day, cleaning between your teeth daily, eating a healthy diet, and scheduling regular dental visits. Even if you are diagnosed with gum disease, your dentist can design a treatment plan to help you keep it under control.

The above article is from: MouthHealthy.org

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Thursday 2 October 2014

Gum Disease Treatment

Defeat Gum Disease Painlessly
Gum Disease Treatment Spokane Valley WAPeriodontal or gum disease is the main cause of tooth loss, not decay. Dr. Ellsworth is pleased to combat gum infections with a most effective product. ARESTIN™ is an antibiotic in powder form that is time released to effectively fight the infection below the gum line. It kills all the bacteria, letting the gums return to good health. 


Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com

Saturday 27 September 2014

Dental Assistant

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about the role played by your Dental Assistant!



The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Friday 26 September 2014

Common Myths of Gum Disease # 2

I don't have cavities so I can't have gum disease
Being cavity-free doesnít ensure you are in the clear where gum disease is concerned. Thatís because gum disease is painless and many people have no idea they have it. Gums that bleed easily or are red, swollen or tender is a sign of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease and the only stage that is reversible. When caught early gingivitis can usually be eliminated by a professional cleaning at the dental office, followed by daily brushing and flossing.

The above article is from: MouthHealthy.org

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 


Thursday 25 September 2014

Dental Care Specialized Towards Diabetics

Are You Diabetic or Pre-Diabetic? Diabetic Dental Care Spokane Valley WA
Medical research has made a link between the ability to maintain normal blood sugar levels and gum disease. Diabetes can make your gum disease worse as well. It is a vicious cycle. Not all dentists have the specific training to assist diabetics with their dental health. We are trained to care for diabetics’ problems. You will always receive compassionate and nonjudgmental care from our team. Please call us for a free consultation today. 


Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Saturday 20 September 2014

Dental Hygienist

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about the role played by your Dental Hygienist!



The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Friday 19 September 2014

Common Myths of Gum Disease # 1

Gum disease is not that common
On the contrary, gum disease is extremely common. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, half of adults age 30 and older suffer from some form of gum disease. Gum disease, an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth, is caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that is constantly forming on our teeth. Plaque that is not removed with thorough daily brushing and cleaning between teeth can eventually harden into calculus or tartar. 

The above article is from: MouthHealthy.org

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 


Thursday 18 September 2014

White Dental Fillings

No Mercury! No Metals! No Kidding!
White Dental Fillings Spokane Valley WAThe silver-amalgam filling that has been the standard material for fillings for years has provided only a reasonable restoration. It can have shortcomings, such as not bonding well with the tooth. This can let decay eventually set in under the filling. Patients do not like the appearance of an ugly black plug in white teeth, which is not pleasing to look at during eating or speaking. 


Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Saturday 13 September 2014

Dentist: Doctors of Oral Health

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about the role played by Dentists!



The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Friday 5 September 2014

Laser Dentistry

Laser Dentistry Spokane Valley WAIntroducing the Picasso™ Laser

Our practice uses the most advanced technology with the Picasso Laser. It is FDA approved and replaces scalpels and incisions to result in quicker recovery time. It can even out gum lines, re-contour inflamed tissue around crowns, and treat canker sores or mouth ulcers to provide instant relief. All this with no post-op discomfort! 


Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com

Wednesday 3 September 2014

What is Tooth Sensitivity?

What is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is a common name for dentin hypersensitivity or root sensitivity. If hot, cold, sweet or very acidic foods and drinks, or breathing in cold air, makes your teeth or a tooth sensitive or painful then you have sensitive teeth.

Is Tooth Sensitivity Common? 
Tooth sensitivity is very common and it has been estimated that approximately half the population experiences tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity can come and go over time.

Why does Tooth Sensitivity (Dentin Hypersensitivity) Happen? 
Tooth sensitivity is usually caused by dentin on root areas exposed due to receded gums or periodontal disease. Receded gums are very common and up to four fifths of people have gum recession by the time they are 65.  

When the root of a tooth becomes exposed it does not have a layer of enamel like the crowns of your teeth. Instead the roots have a very soft covering called cementum, which once lost leaves the dentin of the root exposed.  Overzealous brushing or using a very abrasive toothpaste can also cause abrasion of the tooth's enamel surface and expose dentin. A very acidic diet ñ for example a diet with a lot of citrus food, pickles or sodapop ó can cause tooth erosion and dissolve the tooth surface, exposing the dentin. Bulimia and GERD can also result in dental erosion and sensitivity due to acid in the mouth.

To read the entire article visit Colgate.com


Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com 

Friday 29 August 2014

Children's Dentistry Spokane Valley WA

We Care About Kids!Kids Dentist Spokane Valley WA
Dr. Ellsworth will put your children at ease during appointments. He delivers treatments with thoughtfulness and care and uses the latest techniques in children’s dentistry that result in less time in the dental chair. Our team shows proper dental care habits to children to help them keep their natural teeth for a lifetime. We enjoy their first visit at age five, and continue to do so year after year.

Calming Dental Fears
We want this generation of children as well as future generations to grow up without fear or worries over dental care. As many of our young patients’ parents have told us, we are accomplishing our goals! They enjoy coming to our office, a relaxed and happy place to visit. No matter the challenge, we can help your child to feel calm throughout their appointments. 


Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com

Wednesday 27 August 2014

Treatment Options for Tooth Sensitivity

The best way to find out why a tooth is sensitive is to have dental professional examine you. They can look for the signs of dentin exposure, and run tests to determine what the true cause of the sensitivity is. Sometimes, the sensitivity is due to a cavity or gum disease ñ these can be treated to address the sensitivity. Other times, the cause of the sensitivity is because the enamel has been lost through abrasion or erosion, or the gums have receded, causing the roots to be exposed.

What Can Be Done?
If the sensitivity is due to a cavity, a restoration can be placed. If gum disease is the cause, the dental professional can perform a thorough cleaning of the area.

However, if the cause is from dentin being exposed, then there are a number of professional and at home treatments that can be used to reduce the sensitivity.

In Office Procedures:

  • Fluoride varnish can be applied to exposed areas, strengthening the enamel and dentin
  • Fluoride foam or gel can be placed into a mouth tray; you then sit with this in your mouth for 3-5 minutes, providing the teeth with a high concentration of fluoride to strengthen the areas
  • Bonding agent, the material used to stick tooth colored restorations to teeth, can be used to seal the dentin surface and provide a barrier to the stimuli that cause sensitivity

At Home:

  • Use a very soft bristle tooth brush, with low abrasive tooth paste
  • Brush correctly and do not over brush
  • Use a tooth paste specially formulated to soothe the nerve endings in the tooth
  • Use a high concentration fluoride toothpaste (given to you by the dental professional) to strengthen the tooth surface

There are a number of treatments available, and your dental professional can help you find those that will work best, depending on your situation. Always seek a dental professional's help ñ do not try to diagnose this problem yourself. It may be the sign of something more serious, and only a dental professional can tell you what it really is.

To read the entire article visit Colgate.com

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 


Friday 22 August 2014

Clear Dental Braces Dentist Spokane Valley WA

Orthodontics – The Clear Alternative Clear Dental Braces Dentist Spokane Valley WA
Dr. Ellsworth is very happy to offer Invisalign™ and ClearCorrect™ invisible aligners, innovative orthodontics that allow you to have straight teeth in as little as 9 - 15 months! These aligners can correct overcrowding, widely spaced teeth, overbite, underbite, or crossbite.

With Invisalign™ and ClearCorrect™ invisible aligners, you can have your teeth straightened in only 9 - 15 months. Dr. Ellsworth is pleased to offer these innovative orthodontics to successfully correct overcrowding, crossbite, underbite, overbite, or widely gapped teeth.

With the advancement of 3-D computer imaging, your entire treatment plan is outlined. From this plan, the nearly invisible thermoplastic aligners are created. They resemble whitening trays and fit over the exact position of your teeth. From the first set of aligners, your teeth begin to gently move to the desired position. Approximately every two weeks, a new set of aligners is used, as progress is made toward your goal. Evaluation is minimal; you only need to come in every 1 - 2 months. Your total treatment time is based on your individual needs.
 
Invisible Dental Aligners - Straight Teeth Spokane Valley
Boosting Your Confidence
There are advantages to the Invisalign system. The aligners are nearly invisible, so no one will ever know you are in the process of straightening your teeth. Only if someone looks extremely closely are they detectable. This will give you confidence throughout your active treatment.

Invisalign & ClearCorrect are also very comfortable. There are no metal wires, braces, or headgear that require adjustment, so there is less time in the dental chair and no temporary mouth irritation.

Wearing braces has never been more convenient. The aligners are removable for eating and cleaning your teeth, so you can eat and drink whatever you like – absolutely no food restrictions. After thoroughly cleaning your teeth after each meal, you can be assured your teeth will remain free of plaque as they move to a new position. 


Invisalign - ClearCorrect Orthodontics Spokane Valley

 Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com

Wednesday 20 August 2014

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity

Learn more about tooth sensitivity by watching this video from Colgate.com.

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity: Discover the causes, prevention and treatment of sensitivity.



The above video was found on both Colgate.com and Colgate's YouTube Channel.

Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Thursday 7 August 2014

Smile Makeover Dentist Spokane Valley WA

Teeth Whitening - Smile Makeovers Spokane Valley WA
‘Smile Makeovers’ in as Little as Two Visits!
For problems of misshapen teeth, widely gapped teeth, or severe discoloration, we have an answer for you! Porcelain veneers are thin, but very durable coverings that are bonded to your natural teeth to give a straight and uniform appearance. They are also used for chipped or cracked teeth or to correct a worn or misshapen tooth. Veneers can be made to match the color of your other teeth, so it is not apparent that it is not a natural tooth.
 
Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Thursday 31 July 2014

Dental Implants Dentist

Dental Implants to Secure Slipping Dentures Spokane Valley WA
Dental Implant Restoration for a Perfect Smile
One or many missing teeth can be replaced with dental implants. They provide full functionality for chewing and give you a complete and healthy smile. They rise up from under the gums and look as if they grew there naturally. Those with no teeth can benefit, as implants can anchor dentures securely to eliminate the problem of looseness and shifting. An oral surgeon first places the titanium post, and Dr. Ellsworth will create the natural-looking restoration. All implants match other teeth, and you will have your smile restored to a beautiful look.

Overdentures – The Answer for Slipping Dentures
If you are tired of dentures that move when you eat or speak, we can offer you the stability and strength of overdentures. They are a recent breakthrough that can anchor a bridge or denture to eliminate the problems of trapped food and slurred speech. Our team can give you both a great look and the best fit. You will have even more reason to smile. 


Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
  

Thursday 24 July 2014

Oral Hygiene Care For All Ages

Older Adult Dental Care is DifferentDental Care for Seniors in Spokane Valley WA
Our teeth change as our bodies age. Plaque may build up, caffeine may leave stains, gums or roots may suffer from infection, and fillings may crack. Regular check-ups help to keep on top of the situation before it reaches a serious level. If you take medications that result in lessened saliva flow, we have products that can remedy the problem. We encourage good nutrition and proper daily cleaning to keep your gums and teeth healthy. If gums start to bleed or teeth loosen, please contact us immediately.

A Healthy Smile at Every Age
Healthy teeth and gums can keep you smiling well into your retirement years. Proper dental care of your teeth can help them last a lifetime. Older adults need to know that it is never too late to preserve and protect their smiles. Modern dentistry offers a variety of options that allow you to preserve, enhance and maintain your beautiful smile.

As you get older, your dental needs become increasingly specialized, making regular visits to the dentist even more essential. You need a dentist who understands those specific needs. Dr. Ellsworth provides specialized, custom care to meet the needs of his most important patient – you.


Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
  

Tuesday 8 July 2014

Dental Root Canal Treatment

Dental Root Canal Treatment Spokane Valley WA
Saving Hopeless Teeth
In the past, a tooth with damaged or infected roots would be extracted. That has proven to cause lots of problems and should be avoided when possible. Dr. Ellsworth is well experienced in the latest techniques of root canal therapy.

Root canal therapy is a procedure where the interior pulp chamber of the tooth is removed and replaced with a special material (not the regular filling material). Sometimes a crown will be placed over the tooth to strengthen it.

In times past, this procedure received a bad reputation among patients. However, with today’s latest advancements in treatment and anesthetics, it is quite manageable and can even be comfortable. 


Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com
 

Tuesday 1 July 2014

Cosmetic Dentistry

Dental Crown Dentist Spokane Valley WADon’t Hide Your Smile – Remake It!
There is no reason you can’t have the smile you have always dreamed of. We know that if you look good, you feel great! Our preventive care and restorative techniques combine to make you can feel confident in your smile in less time than you expect! Ask us about whitening, bonding, crowns, and veneers!

Will You Need a Crown?
Crowns are sometimes necessary if a tooth is broken or worn down. When there is too much damage for a filling, a crown will both save and strengthen it. We use the latest materials to construct your crown. It looks so beautiful and fits so well, it is indistinguishable from your natural tooth. 



Family Dental of Spokane Valley
Craig Ellsworth, DDS
826 North Mullan Road, Suite C
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 924-1580
FamilyDentalOfSpokaneValley.com