How Much Does Professional Teeth Whitening Cost?

August 4, 2019 by jensendental

How Much Does Professional Teeth Whitening Cost?

A bright, white smile can significantly improve your self-esteem and confidence. Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once, and obtaining regular dental cleanings is necessary to protect your teeth. Unfortunately, a good oral hygiene routine may not always prevent staining. Staining can be caused by the foods you consume, smoking, drinking specific beverages, and more.

In-office teeth whitening treatments are the safest way to whiten your teeth. They whiten them more quickly and effectively than alternative solutions. DIY whitening solutions are less expensive, but they are capable of causing real damage to your teeth.

Overall Costs

Before we delve into the total cost of in-office treatment prices, let’s consider the cost of alternative whitening methods. Purchasing whitening strips must be done consistently and will never achieve the same affects as an in-office treatment. The cost from whitening strips may seem cheaper initially, but the costs add up. Purchasing a $30 whitening kit monthly for 2 years will cost over $700. Furthermore, DIY dental treatments can result in dental problems that will require even more money to fix.

In-Office Teeth Whitening

In-office teeth whitening treatments cost $450-650 on average. Many dental offices allow payment plans to make teeth whitening treatments more affordable. In general, a teeth whitening treatment is considered a cosmetic procedure and insurance plans won’t help cover it.

Professional teeth whitening treatments may initially seem expensive, but it can save you a significant amount of money in the long run. To learn more about in-office teeth whitening, contact us at Jenson Dental today!

Is Fluoride Dangerous?

July 10, 2019 by jensendental

Is Fluoride Dangerous?

Fluoride is a useful mineral that is found in many dental products, like toothpaste. Many cities now put fluoride into their water supply. There are many benefits to using fluoride, but it tends to be a controversial topic. Many people argue that fluoride is dangerous to consume, despite its benefits.

Benefits of Fluoride

There are many benefits of exposure to fluoride. It has been shown to significantly reduce tooth decay and cavities. Fluoride saves money on dental treatments. It is naturally occurring and prevents demineralization. When fluoride bonds to the teeth, it helps strengthen them. It can even help to reverse damage to the enamel of the teeth.

Conditions Caused by Excessive Fluoride Consumption

There are a few things that excessive fluoride consumption can cause. One of the most common conditions is dental fluorosis. This is caused by exposure to high concentrations during childhood. Though it doesn’t exactly damage the teeth, it does lead to discoloration.

Fluoride poisoning occurs when there is extremely excessive consumption of fluoride. This does not occur with regular drinking of tap water. It is typically only a concern with accidents related to fluoride addition to the water. Therefore, fluoride poisoning is not a common occurrence. The symptoms of fluoride poisoning include abdominal pain, excessive saliva, nausea and vomiting, and seizures and muscle spasms.

The benefits of fluoride far outweigh its hazards. The only time fluoride becomes dangerous is with extreme consumption. Otherwise, fluoride can significantly help strengthen your teeth and prevent damage from occurring. To learn more about taking care of your teeth, contact us at Jenson Dental today!

Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

June 5, 2019 by jensendental

Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is never a comfortable experience and it can significantly impact your quality of life. It occurs when the tooth has worn down and the nerves are exposed. Enamel is a protective layer over the dentin of the tooth. When it wears away, the dentin is exposed which can cause your teeth to become sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. Teeth may also be sensitive to sticky, acidic, or sugary foods. Here are some of the common causes of tooth sensitivity.

Tooth Decay or Damage

Tooth decay leads to a wearing down of the enamel. Broken teeth can leave the dentin exposed, which will also lead to sensitivity. Preventing tooth decay requires brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once. It is also important to obtain regular dental cleanings.

Diet

Consistently eating a diet high in sugar or acid can lead to tooth decay. Soda is one of the biggest causes of tooth decay. Changing the foods you eat can help you strengthen your teeth and prevent damage from occurring.

Brushing Too Hard

Brushing too hard consistently or with a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away the enamel of the teeth. Similarly, too harsh whitening agents can result in damage to your tooth. These are all capable of resulting in tooth sensitivity.

Tooth Grinding

Grinding your teeth at night can cause damage to them and leave the dentin exposed. Obtaining a night guard or practicing relaxation methods can help prevent sensitivity from occurring.

Whitening Treatments

Whitening treatments often cause temporary sensitivity. The sensitivity should fade in time.

If tooth sensitivity is unbearable or lasts for an extended period of time, you should contact your dentist to ensure there isn’t a serious underlying problem. Your dentist will be able to pinpoint what is causing your tooth sensitivity. To learn more about how to prevent tooth sensitivity, contact us at Jenson Dental today!