Why are Wisdom Teeth Extracted?

Wisdom teeth extraction is among the most common surgical procedures in the US, with over 5 million people receiving it yearly. Yet, despite the procedure’s frequency, some individuals are unfamiliar with the reasons for seeking it. Improperly grown or neglected wisdom teeth can cause severe jaw, gum, and tooth pain. For these reasons (and more), oral surgeons and dentists often recommend pulling wisdom teeth.

Waynesboro, VA, families can rely on Hillcrest Dental for comprehensive oral health services. From general check-ups to cosmetic procedures and oral surgery, our services leverage cutting-edge techniques and proven methodologies to deliver outstanding care. Moreover, we make dental health accessible by offering an affordable dental benefits plan. Visit our website or call (434) 973-2224 today to learn more or request a free smile consultation. 

Below, we explain what wisdom teeth are and why experts recommend their removal: 

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last to grow (erupt) in your mouth. They are further back than any other teeth in your mouth and appear for most of us between the ages of 17 and 25. Most individuals have one in each corner of their upper and lower jaw; however, some people have fewer—or none!—due to evolutionary shifts in jaw size. 

Far back in the past, wisdom teeth helped early humans chew the tough foods in their diets. But modern food choices have rendered them less crucial. Indeed, wisdom teeth in the mouths of modern humans may cause more harm than good. 

Today, most oral surgeons recommend extracting these unnecessary teeth. This one-time procedure often entails sedation and local anesthesia to reduce discomfort. Even if patients have asymptomatic or unerupted wisdom teeth, some dental specialists may still suggest extraction as prevention. 

Reasons for Extraction 

Impaction: Without enough space to grow properly, wisdom teeth can become impacted, that is, trapped in the jawbone or gums. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection if not identified and removed. 

Crowding: Wisdom teeth typically erupt years after all other adult teeth. As a result, wisdom teeth can push those healthy, grown-in teeth out of alignment. In addition to the shifting teeth, overcrowding due to wisdom teeth can cause bite problems, making it difficult to chew and speak properly. 

Cavities and Gum Disease: Since wisdom teeth lie in the far back corners of our mouths, they are difficult to reach with a toothbrush and floss. This limited access allows plaque and food debris to accumulate, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Long-term consequences of build-up are cavities and gingivitis, which are the early stages of gum disease and tooth decay. 

Dentists and Oral Surgeons Now Accepting Waynesboro, VA, Patients! 

Wisdom teeth removal is now a standard practice. However, for guidance on whether or not the procedure is necessary for you, speak to a qualified oral surgeon. Waynesboro, VA, individuals and families can turn to Hillcrest Dental for high-quality general dentistry, cosmetic services, and oral surgery care. Schedule a free smile consultation today by calling (434) 973-2224 or visiting our website!

4 Benefits of Regular Family Dentist Visits to Hillcrest Dental

While you may believe you and your kids should visit separate dentists, the reality is that opting for comprehensive family dentistry fosters open communication and trust with those closest to you. Children are comforted by such familiarity, and you will have opportunities to discuss your family’s oral health with an expert. Along with our convenience and emergency preparedness, Hillcrest Dental offers optimal oral care for families. 

Since 1953, Hillcrest has been a proud provider of general care, cosmetic services, and surgical dentistry in the Charlottesville, VA, area. Our family-oriented dentist, Dr. Ryan Buckwalter, puts the needs of our patients and their families first, ensuring high-quality care at an affordable price. Learn more about our services by calling (434) 973-2224 or requesting an appointment through our website today! 

Below, we list the benefits of regular family visits to Hillcrest: 

1.) Convenience and Familiarity 

Put simply, scheduling the whole family’s dentist appointments with Hillcrest saves you time and hassle. For example, you can book back-to-back blocks so everyone is seen during one office visit. Additionally, you can comfort your children if they are nervous about dental visits. By choosing a children’s and family dentistry that offers comprehensive services like Hillcrest, the whole family’s dental needs will be met. 

2.) Personalized Care and Relationships 

Returning to Hillcrest year after year allows you to build a long-term relationship with the staff. The dentist and hygienists will develop a deep understanding of your family’s dental history, including hereditary conditions and sensitivities. These details enable a personalized approach to your care, which allows the dental staff to tailor treatment plans to your family’s needs and contribute to better overall oral health. 

3.) Preventative Care 

Regular check-ups at the same Virginia family dentistry allow more opportunities for early detection of dental problems, such as cavities or gum disease. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming costly problems down the line. By taking your dentist’s advice on preventative care (including visiting for cleanings, fluoride treatments, and more), your family can maintain healthy smiles. 

4.) Emergency Care and Flexibility 

A familiar family dentist on speed dial is a big advantage in dental emergencies, such as broken teeth or jaw injuries. Not only do some dentists prioritize their long-time patients, but familiarity with your family’s history allows dentists to provide more effective treatment. Moreover, an established relationship with your dentist means you may have flexibility on last-minute appointment times. 

Visit Hillcrest for Trusted Family Dentistry in Charlottesville, VA!

Finding a local family dentistry you trust is critical to maintaining your family’s oral health. At Hillcrest Dental, our regular check-ups include a thorough and comprehensive periodontal evaluation to protect you from top to bottom. Moreover, our team works with patients and their families to determine the best dental plans for everyone involved. To learn more about our family dentist services, call (434) 973-2224 today.

Hillcrest Dental’s Top Dental Tips for Healthy Teeth and Gums

We’re midway through the holiday season’s festivities, which means our teeth have already faced an assault of sweets and rich foods! This time of year calls for proactive dental care, and Hillcrest Dental’s expert team recommends careful brushing, flossing, hydration, and much more. Don’t forget to make an appointment at the top dental practice in Charlottesville, VA!

A high-quality dentistry provider for decades, Hillcrest is committed to creating and maintaining bright, healthy smiles. We offer emergency dental services alongside our general and cosmetic care options to families and individuals. Moreover, our office provides financing options to ensure an accessible, low-stress service experience. You can learn more by calling (434) 973-2224 or requesting a dental appointment through our website.

Below, we outline our best dental practices for protecting your teeth and gums:

Brush Your Teeth Twice Daily

Excellent oral health depends on daily practices. All schoolchildren learn that they should brush their teeth twice a day, and this rule applies to adults too! These brushes are a cornerstone for healthy teeth and gums, as they combat the build-up of plaque and germs, remove food particles from gaps and crevices, and keep your teeth in working order.

Establishing this daily habit in your morning and nighttime routine ensures you always make time for this crucial task. Moreover, you must go about it with a suitable technique and materials (more on those below). If you do so, brushing twice daily is as helpful as any professional preventative dental services.

Brush Properly

How you brush your teeth can be just as impactful as when you do so. Go slowly and brush in circular motions to remove plaque, making sure to reach every spot at least once. Plaque build-up results in tooth decay, one of the most common causes of toothaches, but brushing properly keeps such build-up at bay. Don’t forget your tongue either—plaque can accumulate and cause bad breath!

Use Fluoride Toothpaste

All the brands and varieties of toothpaste at the supermarket promise impressive effects due to their powders, flavors, and other ingredients. But toothpaste’s influence comes down to one factor: the presence or absence of fluoride.

A naturally occurring mineral, fluoride combats the germs that cause tooth decay and creates a barrier for teeth. Many (though not all) communities add fluoride to their water supplies, but you can ensure your teeth receive a daily dose by using the right toothpaste.

Floss at Least Once a Day

Flossing strikes some people as that extra, unnecessary step dentists pester everyone to do. However, flossing is just as important as brushing because it offers unique benefits, according to dental experts: flossing stimulates the gums, removes plaque, and reduces inflammation.

Some adults and children find flossing difficult and uncomfortable, which discourages them from using it. Luckily, innovations like dental floss picks can help them work around such discomfort. Although mouthwash can provide some oral health benefits, it cannot replicate those of flossing.

Don’t Overlook Diet

While daily dental care is crucial to oral health, diet also has a substantial impact. Drinking water, for instance, washes sticky and acidic foods and beverages from the mouth. Crunchy fruits and vegetables come packed with nutrients that support oral health and get the jaws working. Plus, those sugary and acidic foods erode tooth enamel and can cause cavities in the long term.

Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year

Of course, you can protect your oral health and ensure best practices by checking in with Hillcrest Dental twice a year! Even the best brushes and flossers must do so, as dentists can recognize damage and warning signs that non-professionals miss. Be prepared for these check-ups by preparing questions and communicating your oral health concerns with your dentist.

Top Dental Professionals in Charlottesville, VA!

In the middle of decorating and celebrating, don’t forget to make an appointment at the top dental office in Charlottesville, VA! Hillcrest Dental is open for families and individuals looking to protect their teeth and ensure excellent oral health. Our team offers general and cosmetic care along with oral surgery and emergency services. Call us at (434) 973-2224 or visit our website to request an appointment today.

Get the Most Out of Your Dental Checkup with Hillcrest Dental

Neglecting oral hygiene can deteriorate overall health, making regular dental checkups an essential wellness treatment. Though most dental checkups last only 45 minutes, you should make the most of your brief visit. By following recommended oral health practices at home, coming prepared for your appointment, and being communicative with your provider, you can maximize your experience with a trusted dentist. 

Residents of Charlottesville, VA, searching for top-notch dental care can turn to Hillcrest Dental. Since 1953, our professionals have provided patients quality dental care that inspires smiles and confidence. Among our general dentistry services, we provide routine check-ups that help you affordably maintain excellent oral hygiene. For more information or to schedule your next appointment, call us at (434) 973-2224 today!

Below, we detail how to optimize your dental checkup:

Oral Care Between Appointments

Checkups are meant to identify and prevent serious issues early on, but are insufficient to maintain oral hygiene without regular cleaning at home. Therefore, you must maintain proper oral hygiene practices between appointments. For an easy, low-stress visit, brush and floss twice daily using the proper techniques. Also, take note of any potential issues to address during your appointment. Such issues may include:

• Tooth sensitivity 
• Tender or swollen gums
• Mouth sores 
• Jaw pain

Come Prepared 

Pre-appointment preparation eliminates last-minute scrambling and ensures a time-effective visit. Your dentist likely requires official documents upon your initial visit. So, bring a copy of your dental insurance, ID, and medical records. Additionally, if your prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, or health conditions have changed, write it down and ensure your dentist is aware. 

Ideally, you should schedule routine checkups once every 6 months to a year. Skipping such appointments may result in poor oral health and a more arduous and expensive visit. So, before you leave the dentist, proactively schedule your next appointment.

Be Communicative

By being open and honest with your dentist, you can ensure a personalized and beneficial experience. Make any potential concerns about your health, treatment, or financing clear to your dental professionals. A quality dentist should be eager to listen to questions and provide you with the best treatment for you. 

Additionally, many people feel anxious about dental visits. If this is the case, don’t hesitate to bring your feelings to light. A fear of the dentist’s office is common, and a trained professional can help minimize your negative feelings and optimize your experience. 

Visit a Trusted Dentist in Charlottesville, VA!

Turning to an experienced dentist can help you achieve and maintain the smile you’ve always desired. At Hillcrest Dental in Charlottesville, VA, we provide comprehensive care that keeps you confident and healthy. With services ranging from general care to cosmetic dentistry, our dedicated team is equipped to handle all your oral hygiene needs. To learn more or request a free smile consultation, call (434) 973-2224 today! 

All the Essential Services Your Local Dentist Can Provide You

Although some people hold an irrational fear of doing so, visiting your local dentist is essential for maintaining your oral health and well-being. Whether you have concerns about your smile, are experiencing tooth pain, or are overdue for a regular check-up, general dentistry services can address your oral health needs. From dental fillings to teeth cleanings, a competent dentist can ensure your teeth and gums are well cared for. 

Hillcrest Dental has provided high-quality dental care to Waynesboro, VA, residents since 1953. Our personalized, patient-centered services range from general and surgical dentistry to cosmetic oral procedures. We can help you feel confident in your smile without breaking your budget. Call (434) 973-2224 or visit our website to receive a free smile consultation today.

Below, we explain the services general dentists provide:

What Is General Dentistry? 

Due to their broad scope of oral health expertise, the healthcare industry regards general dentists as primary dental healthcare providers. Their specialization lies in diagnosing, treating, and preventing a wide range of mild to moderate oral health problems.

In addition to regular services, general dentists provide valuable advice on maintaining oral hygiene. Therefore, schedule regular appointments with your general dentist to ensure you maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Essential General Dentistry Services

Reasons to visit a general dentist include routine check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, and treatments for common oral diseases. Moreover, you may require one or more of the following essential dentistry offerings:

• Teeth Cleanings & Exams: During a dental cleaning, a dental hygienist uses special tools to remove harmful plaque and tartar build-up. Then, during the dental exam, the dentist thoroughly assesses your mouth, teeth, and throat for signs of gum disease, cavities, tooth decay, or oral cancer. Schedule cleanings and examinations every 6 months to ensure a healthy smile and early detection of oral health issues.

• Dental Sealants & Fillings: Since 1 in 4 adults have at least one cavity, sealants and fillings are the most common dental procedure. Caregivers will apply sealants to the tooth surfaces that are cavity-prone to prevent their formation. If cavities have already caused fissures and damage in teeth, dental professionals will use fillings to repair them. Without these treatments, these damages can lead to persistent pain and infection. 

• Root Canals: The notorious root canal comes into play when a tooth is significantly infected but can still be saved without an extraction. In this simple yet delicate procedure, dental professionals remove the inflamed pulp inside a tooth and disinfect the area before filling and sealing the tooth. If you fail to address such an infection, it can spread to other healthy teeth. 

• Extractions: When a cavity, infection, or fracture deeply penetrates a tooth and doesn’t respond to other treatments, a tooth extraction becomes necessary. This procedure protects the surrounding teeth from potential infection by removing the problematic tooth from its socket and replacing it with a titanium or zirconium implant.

• Teeth Whitening: Teeth can develop a yellowish tint as they age. Yet comprehensive general dentistry services may include aesthetic treatments such as teeth bleaching or whitening. Professional teeth whitening offers superior results to at-home remedies by delivering longer-lasting outcomes. It’s a safe bleaching process that lightens the shade of teeth to a brilliant white. 

Professional General Dentistry Services in Waynesboro, VA!

Your smile is part of your personality, so keep up-to-date on necessary general dentistry services. At Hillcrest Dental, our team leverages the latest dental technology and high-quality care to treat Waynesboro, VA, residents and families. For more information and to schedule your next appointment, call (434) 973-2224 today.

How to Achieve a Perfect Smile with Cosmetic Dentistry Services

As schoolchildren, we learn the importance of brushing our teeth and visiting the dentist: doing so protects our physical health, smiles, and confidence. Yet we may not realize an entire branch of dentistry is geared toward improving teeth’s appearance. Cosmetic dentistry services are treatments—such as whitening, veneers, and enamel-colored fillings—that achieve a dazzling smile. If you’ve ever felt self-conscious about your smile, speak to your dentist about how cosmetic dental options can help.

Waynesboro, VA, residents can turn to Hillcrest Dental for all such needs. Our office provides general, cosmetic, and oral surgery services to individuals and families throughout the region. We always deliver comprehensive treatment options without sacrificing personalized, patient-centered services. To learn more about our legacy of smiles or request a free smile consultation, call (434) 973-2224 or visit our website today!

Below, we explain the goals of cosmetic dentistry and how its procedures can benefit you:

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Just as people exercise and diet to improve their appearance, they use cosmetic dentistry to feel better about their smiles. These procedures and treatments whiten and straighten teeth in particular, whereas general dentistry enhances oral health (including gums) generally. The most popular options include teeth whitening, cosmetic dentistry veneers, orthodontics (including invisible braces), and more.

Popular Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment Options

• Teeth whitening
  Among the best-known cosmetic treatment options, teeth whitening washes stains and plaque from their surface while restoring their enamel color. This process evens their color and brightens their appearance (whereas teeth bleaching polishes them beyond natural coloring). While over-the-counter whiteners are available, professional treatments deliver the best results.

• Dental veneers
  Cosmetic dentists may suggest veneers for blemishes that teeth whitening cannot counteract. These thin porcelain or resin composite pieces fit atop teeth and cover surface damage. They help create an even, symmetrical appearance by correcting broken, unusually shaped, abnormally small, or otherwise afflicted teeth. Dentists grind and shape veneers before bonding them semi-permanently to teeth.

• Enamel-colored fillings

Some teeth damage is too deep or painful to correct with a veneer to cover up. In these cases, tooth-colored fillings pull double duty by repairing the damage and mimicking the appearance of natural enamel. Such fillings also protect teeth against further damage.

• Dental implants
  While fillings can replace gaps and chinks in teeth, they cannot supplant an entire tooth. Dental implants fulfill this role instead. To install one, a dentist first inserts the implant’s body portion in place of the missing tooth’s root. Once that heals, they will add the abutment and artificial tooth atop it. Dental implants thus fill gaps between teeth with material that looks and feels like enamel.

• Orthodontics & Invisible Braces
  Many adults still shudder at the memories of awkward and uncomfortable metal braces. Yet orthodontics has advanced so that clear braces and invisible aligners are now readily available. These products gently push and pull teeth into alignment over several several. Hillcrest offers young- and full grown-adult patients options from 6 Month Smiles, a certified orthodontics provider.

Comprehensive Cosmetic Dentistry Services Available in Waynesboro, VA

You need not cover up your smile any longer: make an appointment at Hillcrest Dental for cosmetic dentistry services! Our team can straighten and whiten your teeth for a flawless look that will make your confidence soar. Hillcrest serves individuals and families throughout Waynesboro, VA, and the surrounding region. Call (434) 973-2224 or visit our website to learn about our dental services and schedule an appointment!

How to Choose the Right Family Dental Plan for Your Family’s Needs

Choosing a family dental plan is a complicated, multifaceted process. Yet making an informed decision on which family dental plans best fit your needs requires you to consider all the different factors, including costs, preventative care options, and customer reviews. Although you may worry that these considerations will overwhelm you with choices, they can aid in your search and help you determine the best options for you and your family. 

Families in Greene County, Virginia, depend on Hillcrest Dental for all their family dental needs. We deliver high-quality care thanks to decades of experience and dedication at a fair price. Our family-oriented dentist, Dr. Ryan Buckwalter, puts his clients and their families first. Families and individuals can rely on Hillcrest for general, cosmetic, and oral surgery services. Also, we can cooperate and assist you in choosing the best plan and provider options for your family. To learn more about your family’s dental plans and care choices, call 434-973-2224 to schedule an appointment today.

Below, we highlight some key factors to consider when choosing the right plan and provider:

Things to Consider When Choosing a Family Dental Plan

• Preventative Care

Preventative dental services include routine teeth cleanings, exams, fluoride treatments, and X-rays. A plan covering these procedures can save you money and time in the long run. With preventative steps, you lower the risk of developing more serious dental issues and incurring costs.

• Cost

Your budget is crucial when deciding which plan best suits your dental needs. Before settling on a plan, ask questions about insurance coverage, copays, and overall charges. Also, see if the program offers any discounts, as this could help save you money. In addition, the size of your family and other factors could affect the plan’s cost. Generally, the larger your family, the higher the price.

• Determine Your Needs

Every family has different needs when it comes to their dental healthcare. It is pertinent you consider these needs when choosing your dental plan. For instance, do you have young children or plan on having children in the future? Do you have an adolescent who may need orthodontic work? Your family dynamics could impact this decision.

• Comparing plans

Be sure to compare plans and obtain quotes from several providers. Doing so can help determine whether or not a dental plan is appropriate for you and your family.

• Reviews

Finally, reading honest reviews from previous clients is another tool to help you discern which dental provider/plan is best for your family. When comparing two plans, customer testimonials provide insight into differences in service, price, and overall satisfaction.

Why Hillcrest Dental Can Help With Your Family’s Needs

Enrolling in a family dental plan helps keep you and your family safe and secure in emergencies. Thus, it is critical to determine what requirements your family plan must meet. For instance, is the plan within your budget? Will it safeguard you from future incidents? Will it cover the routine services?

Ultimately, you must choose a plan that fits your family’s needs. As a family-oriented dentist, Hillcrest Dental is there for all of your dental demands. We understand that your family’s care comes first, and we have provided top-notch family dental care for decades. In addition, we work with you to help provide the best options for your dental healthcare plan and future.

Family Dentistry Services Available in Greene County, VA

Hillcrest Dental delivers outstanding dental care and service to Greene County, VA, families. Our staff understands that finding a family dental plan is imperative as your family grows. We work with patients to determine the best dental plans for themselves and their loved ones. To learn more about your family dental plan options, call us at 434-937-2224 or schedule an appointment today!

How to Care for Your Teeth without Dental Insurance

Dental care should be a priority for everyone, even those who cannot afford dental insurance. Without proper maintenance, oral health problems can undermine your overall well-being. The good news is that affordable uninsured dental care options exist and can prevent many problems. Implementing good oral hygiene, adjusting your diet, and finding low-cost dental care can keep your smile shining brightly.

Hillcrest Dental offers Piedmont, VA, residents comprehensive and accessible dental care. We understand the financial obstacles that dental care can present, so we’re happy to discuss options before your appointment. Families and individuals throughout the region rely on our general, cosmetic, and oral surgery services for healthy teeth. To learn more about our work, call (434) 973-2224 or schedule a free smile consultation today. 

Below, we discuss ways to protect your oral health even without dental insurance: 

Establish a Good Oral Hygiene Routine

Practicing oral hygiene at home is the easiest way to protect your teeth and avoid costly dentist visits. Keeping your teeth healthy requires daily effort, but the following steps can help you achieve just that: 

• Brushing teeth twice daily using fluoride toothpaste
• Gently brushing your tongue to remove bacteria
• Flossing at least once daily to remove food particles
• Using mouthwash regularly 

Following an oral hygiene routine can prevent the build-up of bacteria, which cause cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. Moreover, caring for your teeth helps to inhibit many dental issues and their hefty price tags. 

Be Mindful of Your Diet

Taking care of your teeth also means maintaining a healthy diet. The food you eat between brushings sits on your teeth, and some foods are more harmful than others. To start, reduce the amount of sugary food and drinks you have. Excessive sugar can break down enamel and cause tooth decay.

Replace those sugary foods with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that will strengthen enamel. Moreover, switching sugary drinks for water also helps wash away food particles in your mouth and keeps you hydrated. You need not cut out all sugary food, but moderation is critical to keeping your teeth shining.

Find Low-Cost Dental Care Options

Low-cost dental coverage options are available. Depending on your income, you may qualify for public insurance programs such as Medicaid and CHIP, but these programs vary by state. Check online for specific details and ask dentistry offices whether they accept such coverage.

Additionally, you can discuss coverage options with your dentist. Some offices offer dental benefits plans or other options to save money on routine services. Exploring these routes can help you find the dental coverage you need.

Budget for Check-Ups

Even without insurance, it may be worth budgeting for the occasional dentist visit. Annual checkups catch potential tooth problems early and treat them before they worsen. Moreover, speaking honestly with your dentist can help determine which issues need immediate care. By delaying dental work that isn’t urgent, you can focus your budget on more important concerns. 

Affordable Uninsured Dental Care Services in Piedmont, VA!

Finding uninsured dental care doesn’t need to be a challenge. Piedmont, VA, residents need look no further than Hillcrest Dental for affordable tooth care. Since 1953, our team has committed to delivering personalized, patient-centered care for all budgets. Call (434) 973-2224 to learn more about our financing options and schedule an appointment!

When is Dental Bleaching Necessary?

More than 50% of Americans have anxiety over their teeth’s appearance. Chipped, missing, or yellowing teeth can give us feelings of shame and insecurity about our smiles’ appearance, tanking our confidence. Thankfully, dentists offer many treatments for just such issues. Dental bleaching, for example, is a low-maintenance option that whitens teeth to create a dazzling smile. Schedule a cosmetic dentist appointment for dental bleaching services to revive your confidence and eliminate years of stains.

Hillcrest Dental’s cosmetic dental services are some of the best in Monticello, VA. You can soon start flashing your smile by connecting with our expert team of cosmetic dentists. We specialize in cosmetic braces, veneers, bleaching, and more for people of all ages. To get started with a free consultation, call our office at (434) 973-2224.

Below, we explain what dental bleaching entails and when it’s necessary:

What is Dental Bleaching?

Dental bleaching involves dentists using chemicals, like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, to bleach one’s teeth beyond their natural color. Bleaching differs from teeth whitening in that the latter restores the teeth’s natural color by removing surface stains. However, people often use these terms interchangeably. 

Receiving dental bleaching from a dentist’s office provides the highest-quality and safest whitening possible. Although the treatment costs more at an office than at-home products and methods, professional teeth whitening lasts longer than doing it yourself. Moreover, you can expect the best results from professionals with years of experience!

The team at Hillcrest Dental provides dental bleaching and more within their cosmetic dental services. We consider the best options and techniques for each individual and their needs.

When is it Necessary?

Tooth Discoloration

• Tooth discoloration can result from numerous causes, including:
• Smoking or using other tobacco products
• Drinking tea, coffee, red wine, or soda
• A buildup of plaque or tartar
• Poor dental hygiene
• Genetics
• Certain medications

Tooth discoloration can make individuals feel self-conscious about their smile and even prevent them from socializing. Yet dental bleaching combats tooth discoloration to ensure your smile is all porcelain white! 

Special Occasions or Job Interviews

Attending a special occasion or a job interview can be exciting as long as you feel confident. Yet meeting friends, family, or a potential employer with stains on your teeth can undermine your confidence. Therefore, dental bleaching is perfect for special occasions or job interview preparation! Boost your confidence to improve your focus on conversations with others.

Aging Effects

The older we get, the more our bodies change—that’s a given! But did you know those changes include your teeth? As we age, tooth enamel wears down and leads to teeth discoloration. 

Additionally, receding gums increase the likelihood of cavities developing, while dry mouths promote bacteria buildup and result in tooth decay. Seniors who want to combat the effects of aging on their teeth can use dental bleaching and achieve a brand-new smile, regaining the confidence of their youth.

Cosmetic Dentists Specializing in Dental Bleaching in Monticello, VA

Hillcrest Dental offers comprehensive dental services, including cosmetic dentistry, oral surgery, and general dental care. Our cosmetic options can repair tooth defects, relieve discomfort, and promote oral health. So, turn to the experts that have served Monticello, VA, residents since 1953. Call (434) 973-2224 to learn more about our dental bleaching services and more.

What to Do If You Dislodge Your Tooth

Among the most critical parts of every tooth is something you cannot see: the dental or tooth pulp. This living tissue resides in the root canals of teeth and contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Yet like any other part of teeth, the dental pulp can suffer trauma. Individuals with broken, knocked-out, or dislodged teeth must locate the damaged portion, keep it clean, and see oral surgeons as soon as possible. They have the training and tools to address such problems.

Greene County, VA, residents can receive such care at Hillcrest Dental. Our oral surgery team can address severe toothaches, dental implants, dental accidents, and other scenarios. We also offer general dental care services—including cleanings, fillings, root canals, and more—for families and individuals across the region. Hillcrest has proudly served the area since 1953, and we look forward to continuing our legacy of smiles with you and your loved ones. Call (434) 973-2224 or visit our website to schedule your appointment!

Below, we describe the science and treatment of dislodged and damaged teeth:

Endodontic Treatment: Saving Dislodged and Damaged Teeth

Caring for teeth’s pulp and nerves is called endodontic or root canal treatment. The procedure includes broken tooth treatment, dislodged teeth corrections, and knocked-out teeth procedures. All these services directly affect the dental pulp, encased by the dentin—the tooth “body” and crown—and the enamel. This resilient exterior protects the soft tooth pulp.

The exact treatment details and steps you should take for endodontic injuries depend on the damage inflicted.

Damaged Teeth Scenarios & Treatments

Dislodged teeth
Also referred to as luxated, dislodged teeth are those pushed sideways, out of, or further into their socket due to trauma. Dentists treat adult dislodged teeth by repositioning and possibly splinting them, though root canal treatment is a more permanent solution. Children between 7 and 12 may not need a root canal because their permanent teeth are still developing. The best thing you can do after dislodging a tooth is visit your dentist ASAP.

Fractured or chipped teeth
Many fractured or chipped teeth break at the crown, which—though uncomfortable—can be fixed by simple reattachment or capping. However, breaks that expose or damage dental pulp often require a root canal. Split teeth, the most significant fracture-type injury, may need outright extraction.

If you notice a tooth fracture and locate the broken piece, wash it in cold water and take it to the dentist immediately. They may be able to reattach it. Also, show extreme caution with breaks that involve dental pulp—bite on clean, moist gauze or cloth to relieve pain rather than apply topical oral medication. Aspirin can also ease discomfort.

Knocked-out teeth
Also called avulsed, knocked-out teeth present the most extreme pulp trauma. Nevertheless, they can be saved and returned to their place! Doing so requires quick action: visit your dentist immediately so they can analyze the damage. They may install a splint to hold the tooth in place and allow the socket to heal around that tooth.

If you have a tooth knocked out of your mouth, handle it carefully. Avoid touching the root surface and wash off any dirt or foreign substances in cold water (without soap or a brush). If you can, place the tooth back in its socket ASAP—if not, put it in cool milk to prevent it from drying out. Do not transport the tooth in water or a towel, which can kill the root surface cells. The sooner a dentist can reset the tooth in the socket, the better the chance that the tooth will survive.

Knocked-Out and Dislodged Teeth Care for Greene County, VA, Residents!

With quick action and proper care, damaged or dislodged teeth can survive the trauma and continue supporting your oral health. Greene County, VA, families and individuals who need such services can rely on Hillcrest Dental. Our team of professionals offers outstanding care and comprehensive options for those who want to protect and improve their smiles. Reach out today at (434) 973-2224 or visit our website to learn about all our services and schedule an appointment!