How Do You Know If You’re a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Have you lost a tooth due to an injury?

Are you suffering from periodontal disease?

Did you have a tooth extracted?

Dental implants are a great way to replace a tooth or teeth that you’ve lost. Are you unsure if this procedure would work for you? Well, we have compiled a little research that can help you determine if a dental implant is right for you!

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, “the ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease.”

Frequently Asked Questions:

What’s the procedure like?

It depends on whether you want one or more teeth replaced with a dental implant. If you’re missing a single tooth, one implant and a crown can replace it. If you’re missing several teeth, implant-supported bridges can replace them.  

What can I expect after having a dental implant procedure?

Dental implants require the same care as your original tooth. Please consult with your dentist on the best care and treatment options for you.

Can I use whitening products on my dental implant/s?

No, whitening products only work on natural teeth. However, if your dental implant gets discolored due to smoking, the discoloration can be removed during a polishing session at your dentist office.

Call Doctor Gary DiStefano, D.D.S., your favorite family dentist in Howell, Michigan today to schedule your 6-month appointment!  We’ll get you on your way to better health! 517-546-8983

What Everybody Ought To Know About Dental Emergencies

You may avoid dental emergencies if you regularly make visits to the dentist. However, dental emergencies can still happen!

If you’re unsure whether the issue you’re having is considered a dental emergency, always follow this rule of thumb: if it hurts … consider it an emergency!

Typically, a knocked out tooth, a cracked tooth, a broken jaw, an object stuck in the mouth or tooth, and toothaches are all dental emergencies that require treatment as soon as possible.

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.  

Want to avoid a dental emergency? According to the American Dental Association, here’s how:

1. Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each with fluoride toothpaste.
2. Flossing the correct way at least once a day.
3. Wear a mouth guard when participating in sports or recreational activities. 
4. Avoid chewing ice, popcorn kernels and hard candy, all of which can crack a tooth. 
5. Use scissors, NEVER your teeth, to cut things.

Have you had your checkup lately?  Contact the family dentists in Howell, Michigan today to schedule and get on your way to better health! 

Water is the Best Beverage

Everyone knows that eight glasses of water is necessary for better health, but did you know it also benefits your teeth?

Water with no added flavors containing fluoride is best to drink when it comes to your oral health. Believe it or not, water helps produce the saliva in your mouth, which helps wash away bacteria left behind in your mouth. Basically, the more water you drink, the better your teeth will fight off a cavity infection.

The American Dental Association (ADA) calls fluoride "nature's cavity fighter" because it strengthens enamel and helps repair the early stages of tooth decay. Fluoride also makes your teeth more resistant to acids that come from foods and bacteria in your mouth. 

Do you find it hard to take in the daily recommended intake of water? Here are some tips provided by WebMD.com you can follow:

1. Have a beverage with every snack and meal.
2. Choose beverages you enjoy; you're likely to drink more liquids if you like the way they taste.
3. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Their high water content will add to your hydration. About 20% of our fluid intake comes from foods.
4. Keep a bottle of water with you in your car, at your desk, or in your bag.
5. Choose beverages that meet your individual needs. If you're watching calories, go for non-caloric beverages or water.

Our ultimate goal is to help you improve your 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 Howell family dentist. Call Doctor DiStefano, your favorite Howell family dentist to schedule your 6 month appointment today! 517-546-8983

A Whiter, Brighter Smile With Dr. DiStefano, Howell Family Dentist!

Whiten Your Smile While You Sleep!   It’s Easy With Dr. DiStefano, Your Howell Family Dentist!

Have you looked in the mirror and noticed that your smile isn’t quite as bright as it used to be? 

Do your teeth look discolored or just darker than you remember? 

Have you considered teeth whitening, but have heard that the bleach tastes gross, and may even hurt your teeth after a few minutes? 

Our number one priority is your oral health.  However, we also want to help you feel good about your smile.  Your teeth have probably become discolored due to diet, tobacco use, or even your age!   It happens to most of us, and you shouldn’t feel bad because there’s something you can do about it!  We’re here to help you get your bright smile back! 

We offer two different teeth whitening systems: Sheer White Professional Grade Whitening Strips and Opalescence Professional Whitening Trays.  Both Sheer White, and Opalescence have a higher level of bleach than what you’d find in at-home whitening systems.  Plus, Dr. DiStefano and his staff are available to answer your questions and support you on your journey to whiter, brighter teeth! 

Visit our website to learn which teeth whitening system is right for you! 

It could take less than ten days to get that smile you’ve always wanted!