Dr. G’s High Level Dentistry Series: Are you breaking your own teeth without realizing it?

Dentist in Cambridge

If you regularly wake up with headaches, a sore neck, or a sore jaw it could be related to grinding/clenching.

There are 5 main muscles associated with clenching and grinding.  These muscles, like any muscles in the body, can tense up and develop “knots” in similar ways that people’s shoulders and back develop these.  During a TMJ (Temporal Mandibular Joint) screening, us dentists evaluate these areas as well as any jaw abnormalities.

Almost 90% of my patients experience mild/moderate TMJ issues at some point in their life and for the majority of them I recommend an over the counter nightguard (once I have confirmed via a TMJ screening).

BUT at what point does this need further customized care?

If you have experienced crowns breaking, fillings cracking, or your front teeth getting shorter as you age, it’s a good indication that you need a TMJ screening to prevent damage to your teeth.  Additionally, there are even patients that have their jaw lock in in open or closed position for some amount of time.  This also is a good indication that a bigger problem may occur.

The good news though is that once we have found the cause of this problem, there are simple preventative measures we can do to ensure this ends the downward cycle. 

Stop by our office today for a no charge TMJ assessment to stop the cavity development in its tracks.  

Dr. Jeffrey E. Greenberg DMD

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To view the video series, visit us:

Facebook: @sweetspotdental

Instagram: @hellosweetspotdental

To see how Dr. Greenberg and his team can help you click here

Cambridge MA Dentist | How to Get Your Kids to Eat Healthier

Dentist in Cambridge

The food children eat affects their long term oral health. Some foods have nutrients teeth need. Others are full of acids and sugars that are harmful to teeth. With so many unhealthy food choices being marketed to children every day, it is vital that you take a stand. Offer fun, healthy snacks and model the better food choices you want your kids to make.

With so many unhealthy food choices being marketed to children every day, it is vital that you take a stand. Offer fun, healthy snacks and model the better food choices you want your kids to make.

Offer healthy snack choices. Kids should have a well-balanced and nutritional diet. This not only promotes overall health but also helps build a strong healthy smile. Nutrition is an important part of oral health. Teaching your kids about eating healthy and limiting sugary foods will help foster a balanced diet from an early age. This will form habits that will result in a lifetime of strong teeth and better overall health.

 

Have fun with snacks. Promote a nutritious diet by getting creative with snack choices. If you show your kids that healthy snacks are fun, they will be more likely to eat them. Apple slices with peanut butter, fruit smoothies, and yogurt with granola or fruit are great examples of fun, yet healthy combinations. Remember to avoid soda and sugary drinks. These can leave sugars on teeth and can increase the risk of plaque and tooth decay. Water is always the best solution! Eating a well-balanced lunch and dinner is important as well. Make sure to add a variety of fruits and vegetables to every meal so that your kids become accustomed to them.

 

Be a good role model. Children learn habits by following the example set by their parents. Send your kids the right message by eating plenty of fruits and vegetables yourself. Avoid sugary snacks that can cause cavities or gum disease. Be sure to practice good oral hygiene in front of your kids. If you brush and floss after meals and snacks, your kids will follow the example. Consider brushing together with your child to reinforce good brushing skills and habits. Make sure to brush at least twice a day, after breakfast and before bedtime. If it is possible, try to encourage your child to brush after lunch or after sweet snacks.

 

Follow up. Don’t forget it is also very important to have regular dental appointments for your child, and model healthy habits by seeing your own dentist regularly. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us for more ideas on how to promote healthy snacking for great long term dental health!

 

Dr. G’s High Level Dentistry Series: Are you Overwhelmed?

Dentist in Cambridge

Problem: You keep feeling like your dentist is chasing problems instead of “routine” cleanings and exams and it’s getting overwhelming for everyone.

For the scope of this blog entry, complex dental cases are defined as any cases that:

  1. Involve multiple disciplines in dentistry (root canals, implants, crowns, fillings, extractions, aesthetics, etc).  Sometimes even within the same treatment plan.
  2. Cases that have underlying clenching/grinding issues
  3. Dental anxiety preventing you from getting proper care

Complex dental cases can easily become overwhelming when:

  1. You can only choose 1 tooth to treat at a time
  2. You don’t begin with the end in mind
  3. The cost of treatment is out of your dental budget

Solution: A structured, clear plan created by your dentist and chosen equally by you and the dentist.  This includes time frame, cost breakdown and pros and cons explained for treatment options.

For those patient with dental anxiety, please our previous blog and video series where we discuss it in detail: https://sweetspotdental.com/dentistry/what-is-dental-anxiety/

Dr. Jeffrey E. Greenberg DMD

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To view the video series, visit us:

Facebook: @sweetspotdental

Instagram: @hellosweetspotdental

To see how Dr. Greenberg and his team can help you click here

Cambridge MA Dentist | The Periodontal Disease – Diabetes Connection

Dentist in Cambridge

In our mouths, we have numerous forms of bacteria. Some are helpful and some are harmful. Bacteria in the mouth can be helpful because it helps to sanitize the mouth and breaks down food particles. However, too much bacteria can lead to the development of gum disease which can be damaging to your oral health.

Bacteria in the mouth can be helpful because it helps to sanitize the mouth and breaks down food particles. However, too much bacteria can lead to the development of gum disease which can be damaging to your oral health.  

When the bacteria start to collect in the mouth, it can create a sticky colorless substance known as “plaque” that sticks on to your teeth. If the plaque is not removed during brushing or flossing, the particle can harden and turn in to tartar. Over time, plaque and tartar becomes more difficult to remove at home so a professional cleaning with the dentist is important for maintaining your oral health and preventing decay and periodontal (gum) disease.

The longer the plaque and tartar remain on the teeth, the more harm they can cause to your oral health. Eventually plaque and tartar will create a mild form of gum disease called Gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gum tissue. Ideally, routine cleanings and proper oral care can prevent gingivitis from developing. Once gum disease is prevalent, only your dentist can help to maintain the disease and prevent it from progressing.

In cases where gingivitis is not treated, it can then advance to periodontal disease. With periodontal disease, the inflammation now affects the soft tissue (gums) and the tooth and if left unattended, it can cause the tooth to loosen or fall out.

Having periodontal disease also can affect your overall bodily health. In many studies, there have been connections with periodontal disease to diabetes and heart disease. It is important to regularly see the dentist for a routine, professional cleaning and examination to prevent gum disease.

With periodontal disease, the dentist has solutions to help you prevent and maintain gum disease. A common solution for controlling periodontal disease is a deep dental cleaning, which can be performed by your dentist or certified hygienist. Contact our team to schedule your next visit today.

Dr. G’s High Level Dentistry Series: Cavity Prevention

Dentist in Cambridge

You brush and floss like you are supposed to, but you still get cavities.  Maybe you can feel that your dentist or hygienist keep bringing up you not flossing enough making it seem like you are lying.

First off this problem is extremely frustrating for everyone involved.  Sure, not everyone is excellent at flossing EVERY SINGLE DAY.  But for patient that are “religious” about taking care of their teeth, a diagnosis of new cavities can feel like a personal attack.  It makes people regret and feel shame for an after dinner mint or a sip of soda.

What does this mean?  It means the cause for this cavity development has not been found out yet and therefore not addressed properly.

There are actually many causes of cavity development that range from: nutritional factors, salivary flow (how much saliva you produce), alcohol intake, pH balance of the mouth,  and yes, improper brushing and flossing technique.

The solution that we use here at Sweet Spot Dental is a Customized cavity risk assessment where we can evaluate the many causes of cavity development and treat it accordingly.

Stop by our office today for a comprehensive exam to stop the cavity development in its tracks.

Dr. Jeffrey E. Greenberg DMD

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To view the video series, visit us:

Facebook: @sweetspotdental

Instagram: @hellosweetspotdental

To see how Dr. Greenberg and his team can help you click here

Cambridge MA Dentist | Dental Implant Restorations

Dentist in Cambridge

About 1 in 4 adults experience tooth loss between the ages of 21 and 30. Dental implants are a safe and long-term option for tooth replacement that improve the appearance and functionality of your smile.

Cambridge MA Dentist | Dental Implant Restorations

A dental implant can be paired with a replacement crown for single tooth replacement or can be used in small groups to anchor a denture or dental bridge. Dental implants are a strong, long-lasting solution for tooth loss and serve to prevent jaw bone loss in the same manner as a natural tooth root.

 

There are many benefits to choosing dental implants as a tooth-replacement solution. Some of these include:

 

  • Natural looking smile: Dental implants are crafted to closely resemble your natural teeth, restoring a natural-looking smile.
  • Improved oral health: Since there is no need to alter surrounding teeth to anchor implants, more of your natural teeth are preserved intact, improving long-term oral health.
  • Improved speech: With removable, non-anchored dentures, teeth can slip within the mouth, causing slurred or mumbled speech. Dental Implants remove that concern.
  • Improved comfort: Dental Implants avoid the slipping and discomfort of removable dentures.
  • Improved function: Dental Implants function like your natural teeth, allowing you to eat without pain.
  • Durability: Dental implants are stable, strong, and stain-resistant.
  • Protect healthy bone structure: Empty spaces caused by tooth loss can, over time, lead to deterioration of the jawbone. Since Dental Implants function like tooth roots, they are able to prevent this type of deterioration, just as natural teeth do.
  • Long-term solution: Dentures must be replaced about every 5-7 years. Dental Implants, when cared for properly, can last a lifetime.

 

If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants may be right for you. We will consider your oral and overall health prior to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. Some considerations include:

 

  • Adequate bone support to anchor the implant
  • Healthy gum tissue
  • Sinus and nerve location
  • Overall health, including any chronic illnesses

 

In some cases, we may recommend advance treatment for your upper or lower jaw to enable you to have the bone support needed for implantation. As always, your treatment plan is created based on your specific needs and goals for your healthy smile.

 

If you are interested in learning more about dental implants or would like to schedule a consultation, contact our office today for an appointment. We’re here to help restore the health and beauty of your smile.

Cambridge MA Dentist | Are Dental Veneers Right for Me?

Dentist in Cambridge

We often have visitors to our office ask about solutions for fixing stained teeth or filling in gaps between teeth. We sometimes suggest veneers. Veneers are one cosmetic option available for correcting your smile. Here’s what you should know about veneers, and whether they are right for you and your smile.

Cambridge MA Dentist | Are Dental Veneers Right for Me?

What Are Veneers?

A Veneer is a thin cover placed over the front of the tooth. Typically, they are made of dental porcelain and designed to cover your existing tooth, not replace it.

 

What They Do

Veneers are used to fix a broken or chipped tooth, shrink the noticeable gaps in between teeth, or reduce the visible stains on teeth. Our office specially sizes them to fit your teeth. Generally, the structure of your teeth is not altered since the veneers are placed over your teeth.

 

What You Need to Know

Those who get veneers sometimes experience a minor increase in sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold food and drinks. Veneers are typically nonreversible, as they often require a small amount of tooth enamel to be removed. After getting them, it is advisable to avoid drinks such as wine, coffee, or tea that are often culprits of causing staining. Taking care of them still requires you to brush twice each day and floss regularly as well. Your teeth are not invincible to staining or decay so be sure to continue to take care of them.

 

It is important to know that veneers are a solution to minor tooth issues such as discoloration, gaps, or misaligned teeth. They are not a substitute for braces, bridges, or other dental work. Schedule a visit to our office to meet with our dentist. Together our team can work with you to develop a plan to reach the goals and look you are hoping to achieve.

 

For more information on how to achieve the smile you have dreamed of, contact our office. We look forward to seeing you during your next visit with us!

 

Dr. G’s blog: Introducing our High Level Dentistry series

Dentist in Cambridge

Does any of this sound familiar?

  • Doing everything the hygienist has recommended, and you STILL get cavities
  • Breaking your fillings, caps, or even your natural teeth
  • You know there is a lot going on, but you are scared to see a dentist
  • You are worried about the cost of dental treatment
  • You feel like your dental office treats you like another number

When things go right, everyone is happy.  When things become unusual, that’s when problems can start happening.  In my High Level Dental Series I will go over non-cookie cutter approaches to dental problems that fit outside the mold.  Please continue this journey with me by following along with this blog, as well as my video series on our social media pages.

Dr. Jeffrey E. Greenberg DMD

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To view the video series, visit us:

Facebook: @sweetspotdental

Instagram: @hellosweetspotdental

To see how Dr. Greenberg and his team can help you click here

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Cambridge Office

Cambridge, MA Dentist

763 Massachusetts Ave., Suite 1, Cambridge, MA 02139

Phone: (617) 945-1974

Email: Hello@SweetSpotDental.com

Hours:
Monday: 9:00am - 6:00pm
Tuesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday: 9:00am - 6:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Friday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday: By appointment only.

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