Thursday, December 17, 2015

Side Effects from Teeth Whitening

Are you considering getting a teeth whitening procedure done?

Are you concerned about side effects that could affect your health?

At Dr. DiStefano’s office, we care about the health of you and your family, and we want to make sure you get the best information possible before deciding on a cosmetic procedure like teeth whitening!

Your smile is important to your self-esteem, and we want you to achieve the smile of your dreams. There are many options available for teeth whitening, and like any medical procedure, some side effects.

Being well informed prior to making a decision on a whitening solution could save you money and unnecessary pain!

Common Side Effects


Tooth sensitivity is the most common side effect of teeth whitening.

If sensitivity occurs, it is often temporary and will go away once you've completed the whitening process.

Here at Dr. DiStefano’s office we recommend using a sensitivity toothpaste while using any whitening system and limiting your consumption of acidic foods and drinks.

According to the American Dental Association, using a whitening product too much can also damage the tooth enamel or gums, so when considering a whitening option, make sure you follow the guidelines recommended by your dentist before putting anything on your teeth.

Looking for More Information?


Are you still not sure what teeth whitening option is best for you? Visit our website for more information about our new in-office whitening product and to talk to knowledgeable and friendly dental professionals about your options!

Thursday, December 3, 2015

Reliable Products for Teeth Whitening

Let’s face it, for many of us, our pearly whites have become more of a faint yellow. Age, our eating and drinking habits, and tobacco usage can lead to tooth discoloration. Even among those who take very special care of their teeth, it’s impossible to keep that white color we all had when we were kids.

With the holidays fast approaching many people are interested in whitening their teeth, hoping to revitalize their smile. They also have a lot of questions about teeth whitening.

With so many products on the market for teeth whitening, it can be difficult to know what works and what doesn’t. Here at Dr. DiStefano’s office, we want to make sure you get the most for your money!

Whitening Toothpaste


Because they're mildly abrasive, every toothpaste helps remove stains from teeth. Whitening toothpastes, however, also contain chemicals or polishing agents that help scrub stains from teeth without the aid of a bleaching agent.

Tooth-whitening toothpastes are relatively inexpensive and brighten teeth by about one shade. Some whitening toothpastes contain peroxides, but they aren't left on the teeth long enough to have a whitening benefit.

Be aware that some ingredients in whitening toothpastes can cause allergic reactions for some people.

When looking for whitening toothpastes at a supermarket, they can easily be found next to the regular toothpastes. Nevertheless, always look for the ADA (American Dental Association) seal, which ensure product quality.

In-Office Teeth Whitening Systems


In office whitening treatments can get your teeth much whiter than whitening toothpastes, and it can be done in one visit!

At Dr. DiStefano’s office, we offer EZ White™.

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An hour, dentist-supervised procedure that uses a patented, light-activated technology and oxygen-rich gel to break away stains quickly and gently in seconds, for results patients can see instantly. A 39% hydrogen peroxide power bleaching gel offers brighter, whiter teeth.

As an extra bonus an EZ White® Pro Teeth Whitening Pen is included with this procedure to use on your own to maintain your pearly whites!

At-Home Bleaching


You can get a professionally produced whitening system that you administer to yourself.

We offer Opalescence take-home whitening system. This includes custom made bleaching trays that we make for you in our office and the whitening gel.

Another option would be Sheer White professional strength whitening strips, which features 20% Carbamide Peroxide gel.

Too Many Options?


If you’re still having trouble deciding about what teeth whitening solution is best for you, visit our website for more information, or call us at 517-546-8983 to schedule an appointment with your hygienist for a pre-whitening consult so that we can help you choose the professional option that best fits your needs. We’re happy to help you!

Thursday, October 15, 2015

How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Benefit Your Health

Are you considering a cosmetic dentistry procedure?

Are you concerned about how it will affect the overall health of your mouth?

You’re not alone! Many people ask themselves similar questions when considering dental procedures.

Here at Dr. DiStefano & Associates, your concerns are important to us, as is the overall health of your mouth! We want to make sure that you are informed about how cosmetic dentistry procedures will affect the rest of your mouth.

For example, if you’re considering teeth reshaping or realignment, this not only will change the way your smile looks, but also can affect your bite.

In addition, lifelike veneers and bonding procedures can help hide wear and tear that happen to teeth over time.

Typically, cosmetic dentistry is done purely to improve the look and feel of your smile, the whiteness of your teeth, and to improve your self-esteem, but it can also be very beneficial to the overall health of your mouth.

Looking For More?

Making sure you’re as informed as possible is important to us here at Dr. DiStefano & Associates! Visit our website for more information on cosmetic dentistry, or call us today to speak to one of our knowledgeable and friendly professionals!

Monday, October 5, 2015

Pros and Cons of Cosmetic Dentistry

Do you struggle with your self-esteem?

Do your self-esteem issues start with your mouth?

Do you wish your teeth were a little whiter, or a little straighter?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, cosmetic dentistry might be the right solution for you!

Cosmetic dentistry is any dental procedure that focuses on the appearance of your teeth, such as teeth whitening, tooth reshaping, and veneers.

If you’re considering cosmetic dentistry, here are some pros and cons you should also take into account:

Pros:


  1. Dental procedures are more advanced than ever, causing most procedures to be painless.
  2. Teeth whitening procedures can be done in the dentist office, or at home, for added convenience.
  3. Many procedures can be done for as little as $300.

Cons:


  1. Since these procedures are considered aesthetic, many dental insurance plans will not cover things like teeth whitening, bonding, or veneers.
  2. Some veneers will need be replaced over the years, and replacements can be costly.

For more on your options and for help making an informed decision, visit our website, and contact Dr. DiStefano today!

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

How to Floss Correctly – Howell Family Dentist

Are you flossing correctly?

Are you worried that you’re not doing a good job?

You know that when you visit your Howell dentist office, the hygienist is going to ask you about your flossing habits, and here at Dr. DiStefano & Associates, we want to make sure you’re well informed!

Flossing is important, and doing it correctly can mean the difference between a healthy mouth, and hundreds of dollars in dental bills.

How To Floss


The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you floss at least once a day. Flossing properly will keep food from getting stuck in your gums, which can lead to tartar buildup.

The dentists at your Howell dentist office recommend using about 18 inches of floss, wound around each middle finger. Holding the floss tight between your thumbs and index fingers, slide it gently up and down between your teeth.

Make sure you use clean sections of floss as you move from one tooth to another!

Need To Set Up An Appointment?


At Dr. DiStefano & Associates, your health is the most important thing to us! If you’re looking for a dentist that takes great pride in putting the patient first, look no further! Give us a call today to set up an appointment!

Wednesday, September 2, 2015

Poor Flossing Habits Can Lead to Oral Health Problems

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When you brush and floss, do your gums feel sensitive?

Do you have pain or even bleeding when you floss?

Whenever you go to the dentist, does your hygienist tell you that you need to improve your flossing habits?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, it’s time for you to see your Howell family dentist.

Flossing is one of the most important things you can do for your mouth. Flossing gets rid of food particles and harmful buildup that can lead to infections and even gum disease.

At Dr. DiStefano & Associates, your health is extremely important to us, and we want to make sure that you know a healthy mouth starts with flossing.

Flossing once per day, especially before bedtime and using proper flossing habits can prevent gum disease, gingivitis, infections, and increase the health of your gums!

If you’re still concerned that your mouth isn’t as healthy as it should be, make an appointment with your Howell family dentist! We want to make sure you’re taken care of, and have the knowledge you need to stay healthy.

Visit our website for more information on how to floss properly, and schedule an appointment today!

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

What to Expect at Your Child’s First Dentist Visit

Do you have a child between the ages of 6 months and one year? 

Are you concerned about when you should schedule their first dentist visit?

Are you worried that you’re not doing everything you can to ensure their mouths are healthy?

Many parents express these concerns. Going to the dentist with a small child can seem like a huge hurdle, especially if your child is fussy around strangers or experiences separation anxiety. 

At Dr. DiStefano & Associates, we take pediatric dentistry seriously, and want to make sure your child has the best care possible, especially at their first visit. 

According to the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), “the first dental visit should occur within six months after the baby’s first tooth appears, but no later than the child’s first birthday.”


Here are some things you should expect out of your child’s first dental checkup:

  1. The dentist will perform a basic checkup, and discuss best practices for your child’s teeth. It’s best to meet your child’s pediatric dentist when there are no problems, according to the ADA. “A dentist can show you how to clean your child’s teeth, discuss diet and fluoride needs and recommend oral care products.”
  2. The dentist will look for small signs of tooth decay. The ADA says that tooth decay can occur as soon as your child’s first tooth erupts. This can be a painful, especially for toddlers, so it’s best to make sure this isn’t happening at their very first checkup.
  3. The dentist will look for problems related to habits such as thumb or finger sucking. 
  4. The dentist will recommend a schedule for your child’s dental visits. 
For more tips on how to make sure your child’s visits to the dentist go as smooth as possible, visit our website to read more about our commitment to pediatric dentistry!

Wednesday, August 5, 2015

Tips to Help Your Child Overcome Fear of the Dentist

Are you getting ready for your child’s first visit to the dentist?

Are you concerned that they’ll be scared or have anxiety about seeing the dentist?

Many parents across America share these concerns. Choosing a dentist and making sure your child is comfortable is likely your top priority, and Dr. DiStefano & Associates wants to make that our top priority, too!

We pride ourselves on specializing in pediatric care, and we’ll go the extra mile to make sure your child has a positive experience.

Here are some tips for a positive pediatric dentist visit, according to the American Dental Association:

- Schedule your child’s first visit between the arrival of their first tooth and their first birthday. Seeing the dentist before there’s an emergency will allow the visit to be a calmer, positive experience.

- Remember to stay calm! Even if you, as a parent, experience anxiety about going to the dentist, try to stay positive, so your child will too.

- Make sure you never bribe your child to go to the dentist, or use it as a punishment! This approach will not teach your child to be proactive about taking care of his or her mouth.

- Take your child’s favorite toy, stuffed animal, or even a security blanket for them to hold while they’re at the dentist. This should help them feel more comfortable in an unfamiliar environment.

For more tips and for what to expect at your child’s first dentist visit, check out our website! Dr. DiStefano & Associates is the premier dental health provider in Howell, Michigan. Give us a call today to see how we can help you improve the health of your family.

Thursday, July 23, 2015

How Often Should You Visit Your Dentist?

Are you seeing the dentist as often as you should?

Does the anxiety and even fear of the dentist keep you from making regular appointments?

You’re not alone! Many people experience anxiety and fear before seeing their dentist.

Here at Dr. DiStefano & Associates, we are committed to your oral health, and we do our best to make sure that you have all the gentle dental procedures available to keep your visits relatively pain-free.

According to the American Dental Association, “there is no one-size-fits-all dental treatment”, and they recommend that you should visit the dentist at least once or twice a year, and then consult with your dentist to find out how often you need to visit in the future.

Since every person is different, each person’s individual needs must be taken into account when planning visits to their dentist. When you visit Dr. DiStefano’s office, we will work with you to find a plan that not only works with your busy schedule, but allows for anxiety-free, pain-free, gentle dental options.

Don’t allow your anxiety about visiting your dentist to compromise the health of your mouth! Your smile is important to you and to us! Visit our website today to see how we can help you!

Thursday, July 16, 2015

New Dentistry Trends to Look Out For

How long has it been since you’ve been to your dentist?

Have you noticed all the new technology in the office during your cleanings, x-rays or other procedures?

Going to the dentist can be a scary experience for some people, and a source of major anxiety. However, as new technology in dentistry becomes available, many more pain-free, gentle dental options are available!

Every day, researchers and scientists are working on new, more gentle dental technologies to not only make your visits fewer and further between, but less painful and less costly when you do come to the dentist.

At Dr. DiStefano & Associates, we are committed not only to your oral health, but to making sure that you are given the most effective, pain-free treatments when you visit us! New advances in dental technology will soon make this a reality.

In addition, with the advances in dental technology, more educational tools will be available to you in dentist offices across the country!

Looking For More?

Visit our website for more on gentle dental technology and how Dr. DiStefano’s office is committed to making sure you are taking great care of your mouth! Visit our site today to see how we can help you!

Tuesday, June 23, 2015

The Importance of Oral Health to Overall Health

Did you know that the health of your mouth is directly related to your overall health?

Are you aware that the health of your mouth can offer clues about the rest of your body?

Oral health means more than just a nice, white smile. Untreated oral issues can often lead to a negative impact on your quality of life.

Your family dentist in Howell, Michigan wants to make sure you’re taking all the steps necessary to achieve a healthy life for you and your family!

To make sure you’re living the healthiest life possible, treat your visits to the dentist as just as important as visiting your primary doctor. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), “your mouth is a window into the health of your body. It can show signs of nutritional deficiencies or general infection.”

Without proper dental hygiene, the bacteria in your mouth can lead to infections such as tooth decay or gum disease. Regular visits to your family dentist in Howell, Michigan are important, as is sharing any illnesses or chronic conditions with your dentist.

Your oral health might also contribute to or be affected by various diseases and conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or osteoporosis. Reports also indicate a relationship between gum disease, stroke, and heart disease.

Keeping your dentist informed of your health issues is essential to a healthy life. 90% of all systemic issues show symptoms in the mouth, so your dentist is crucial when it comes to identifying potential health risks and issues.

Your health is important to us! We want to make sure you’re getting the best care possible. Schedule an appointment today with your family dentist in Howell, Michigan, and make sure to ask your dentist about what you can do to take better care of not only your mouth, but also your whole body!

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

How Does Diabetes Affect Oral Health?

Do you have diabetes?

Did you know that diabetes could affect your oral health?

Are you taking all the steps necessary to make sure that you’re staying as healthy as possible?

29 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with diabetes. If you’re one of those people, chances are you know the risks and issues associated with the disease. However, are you aware that your dentist can help with diabetes-related issues too?

Communicating with your family dentist in Howell, Michigan about how well you’re managing your diabetes can help them take better care of you in the long run.

The American Dental Association says that people with diabetes are more prone to developing infections and other oral health problems than people without diabetes, so partnering with your dentist to combat this issues is a great next step on the road to better health.

Dr. DiStefano has over 30 years of experience and wants to make sure his patients are well cared for and as knowledgeable as possible! Make sure you talk to your dental professional at your family dentist in Howell, Michigan to find out how to get started!

Call To Schedule An Appointment Today!


Your health is important to us! We want to make sure you’re getting the best care possible. Schedule an appointment today with your family dentist in Howell, Michigan, and make sure to ask your dentist about what you can do to take better care of not only your mouth, but also your whole body!

Friday, May 15, 2015

Are You Stressed Out? Your Family Dentist in Howell, Michigan Can Tell!

Do you suffer from frequent anxiety or stress?

Are you starting to notice pain in your jaw or gums?

These two questions might be more related than you think, and it might be time to schedule an appointment with your family dentist in Howell, Michigan!


It is widely believed that too much stress or anxiety can create of oral problems, such as teeth grinding or clenching jaws. However, since most people typically grind their teeth in their sleep without even knowing it, the pain in your jaw or teeth might seem to come out of nowhere.

Family Dentist in Howell Michigan

Regularly seeing your dentist can help identify the causes for pain in those areas, and will help your dentist to see if you could be suffering from one of two common stress-related disorders: Bruxism and Temporomandibular disorders (TMD), and provide a solution.

Bruxism: Bruxism is a disorder that’s commonly presented with teeth grinding and jaw clenching. A lot of people who have this disorder aren’t aware that they’re doing damage to their jaw or their teeth until the pain comes. This disorder can be caused by stress and anxiety.

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD): TMD is a group of conditions, not just one, that affect the jaw and other muscles in the neck. When you’re stressed or feeling anxious, a common way your body shows it is to clench your jaw, causing those muscles to become sore after overuse.


Some signs that you may be experiencing one or both of these disorders:
Family Dentist in Howell Michigan

  1. The tips of your teeth appear flat
  2. The enamel on your teeth is rubbed off
  3. Extreme sensitivity on the teeth (due to less enamel)
  4. Indentations in your tongue (likely from clenching the jaw) 

If you think your stress or anxiety may be affecting you by causing pain in your teeth or jaw, make sure you talk to your family dentist in Howell, Michigan! They may be able to correctly identify the problem and set you up with a treatment plan. In addition, you should continue to keep up with brushing and flossing to maintain good oral hygiene.


Call to Schedule an Appointment

 

Please schedule an appointment with Dr. DiStefano to discuss your concerns and care plan.  As one of the premiere family dentists in Howell, Michigan, Dr. DiStefano has over 30 years’ experience caring for his patients’ health.  He strives to educate his patients and improve their lives through dental care and disease prevention.

Your health and smile are vital for you and very important to us! Contact us today 517-546-8983 to schedule an appointment and get on your way to better health and joyful life!

Friday, May 1, 2015

How To Keep Your Gums Healthy

Do you worry that you’re not doing everything that you can to keep your gums healthy?

It seems like today there are so many things to worry about when it comes to your health, and oral disorders can be invisible, making it even harder to know if you’re taking care of yourself properly. To avoid dental problems that could cost you hundreds of dollars, here are some easy steps to add to your life to make sure you have top-notch dental hygiene:

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1)    Visit your dentist regularly: The best thing you can do to prevent any major dental problems is to see your family dentist in Howell, Michigan regularly. 6-month checkups are vital to making sure that your teeth and gums are as healthy as possible.

2)    Make sure you’re eating healthy: There are lots of foods we eat that can contribute to the health of our teeth and gums. Calcium-rich foods (yogurt, cheese, milk, etc.) are very good for your teeth, helping to ensure they’re as strong as possible. If you eat candy or any kind of sweets, make sure to rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth afterwards to keep the sugar from staying in your mouth all day.

3)    Brush and floss properly: This might seem like a no-brainer, but brushing properly (twice a day, with a fluoride toothpaste) and flossing are the best ways to take care of your gums. Floss helps remove plaque, which is the leading cause for gingivitis, and food particles, which can make the gums irritated. Your favorite family dentist in Howell, Michigan recommends using 18 inches of floss to reach all the areas of the mouth.

4)    Know the risk factors for gum disease: Preventive care involves knowing the risk factors of gum disease, which allows you to take the proper measures against any existing symptoms. The most common risk factors associated with this disease are:

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  • Age. Older people have the highest rates of gum disease, and that’s why continuing good dental hygiene as you get older is so important.
  • Smoking or tobacco use. Aside from other health concerns, smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco (or both) can be very detrimental to the health of your mouth. A lot of studies suggest that tobacco use can increase the development of gum disease at an alarming rate.
  • Genetics. Is there a history of gum disease in your family? If the answer is yes, there is a chance that you might be more likely to develop gum disease yourself, no matter how well you take care of your teeth. Your dentist can help evaluate you and put you on a preventive plan.


Be Your Best Advocate


The best thing to do if you think you’re at risk of developing gum disease is to see your dentist, and know the facts! The more knowledgeable you are, the more you’re capable of taking proper care of your gums.

 

Call to Schedule an Appointment With Your Family Dentist in Howell, Michigan!


Please schedule an appointment with Dr. DiStefano to discuss your concerns and care plan.  As one of the premiere family dentists in Howell, Michigan, Dr. DiStefano has over 30 years’ experience caring for his patients’ health.  He strives to educate his patients and improve their lives through dental care and disease prevention.

Your health and smile are vital for you and very important to us! Contact us today 517-546-8983 to schedule an appointment and get on your way to better health and joyful life!

Sunday, April 12, 2015

6 Foods That Lead To a Great Smile!



Have you always dreamed of having a Hollywood smile?

Do you waste a lot of money on teeth whitening, but are never satisfied with the results?

A smile is often the first thing you notice first about someone. It makes a statement! 

What does your smile say about you?

Teeth whitening doesn’t work for everyone but can be worth a shot. However, there are natural ways you can whiten your teeth without buying expensive products at your local drugstore or going to the dentist.
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An amazing little-known secret that most people don’t realize is that whitening your teeth is as simple as watching the foods you eat. The darker the food or drink, the likelihood it will stain your teeth becomes at higher risk. 

According to WebMD, mouth healthy food and drinks include:


  1. Water (especially fluoridated water)
  2. Milk
  3. Unsweetened teas
  4. Cheeses
  5. Chicken or other meats
  6. Nuts

However, keep in mind, these tips are for a person in relatively good health who goes to the dentist for regular checkups. Some stains on teeth are far beyond fixing by just eating the right foods and using bleaching tools; you may need to schedule a thorough cleaning and examination at your favorite dentist in Howell, Michigan.   

Our dedicated dentists in Howell at Dr. DiStefano & Associates provide excellent personalized care and services to make your visits as comfortable and pleasant as possible. Our ultimate goal is to help improve yours and your family’s dental health through care and education. We’re also dedicated to maintaining a higher level of service to our patients so we can remain the best dentists in Howell Michigan. We’ll get you on your way to better health! 517-546-8983