How Long Does a Temporary Crown Last? | Dentist Near Me

If you’ve recently undergone a root canal at Family 1st Dental – Columbus, you may have had a temporary crown placed while your permanent crown is being custom-made. This temporary crown serves as a placeholder, protecting your tooth and restoring its function until the final restoration is ready. However, you may be wondering, how long can I keep my temporary crown on before needing the permanent one?

How Long Can You Keep a Temporary Crown?

The general answer is, it depends. Typically, a temporary crown should stay in place for a few weeks to a month while the lab creates your permanent crown. This period allows your tooth and gums to heal after the procedure, and gives the dental lab time to craft the crown that fits perfectly in your mouth. Occasionally, the timeline for placing the permanent crown may be extended if additional dental procedures are recommended.

However, it’s essential not to delay the placement of your permanent crown for too long. The temporary crown is not as durable as the final crown and may wear down over time. Plus, the longer you wear it, the higher the risk of it loosening, breaking, or causing discomfort.

What Happens if You Keep the Temporary Crown Too Long?

If you keep your temporary crown on for too long, you risk several issues. Over time, the crown can become worn down and lose its fit. This could lead to your tooth shifting slightly, affecting your bite and overall alignment. A worn or loose crown can also expose the tooth underneath to potential damage or infection.

For the best outcome, your dentist in Columbus will guide you on how long your temporary crown can stay in place based on your individual situation, including how it fits and your oral habits. Even if you feel the crown is still intact after a few weeks, it’s important not to delay the placement of your permanent crown.

What Should You Do if Your Temporary Crown Comes Loose?

If your temporary crown comes loose or feels uncomfortable, contact Family 1st Dental – Columbus as soon as possible. While temporary crowns are designed to be a short-term solution, they should still be properly maintained to avoid further complications. If you have any questions about your temporary crown or if it’s been more than a few weeks since your procedure, schedule an appointment with our office to discuss next steps.

In Conclusion

While temporary crowns are designed to serve you until the permanent crown is ready, they should not stay in place indefinitely. It’s crucial to follow up with your dentist in Columbus to ensure the final crown is placed as soon as possible for the best long-term results. For any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact Family 1st Dental – Columbus to schedule an appointment.

Family First Dental – Columbus
Phone: 402-564-7590
2672 33rd Avenue
Columbus, NE 68601

Is Chewing Gum Good for Your Oral Health? The Surprising Answer! | Dentist in Columbus

Chewing gum has been a popular habit for many years, whether it’s for freshening breath, enjoying a flavor, or simply passing the time. But one common question that often arises is: Is chewing gum good for your oral health? The surprising answer is yes, but with some important conditions.

Sugar-Free Gum and Its Benefits

When it comes to gum and your dental health, the key factor is whether it contains sugar or not. Sugar-free gum can actually be beneficial for your teeth. Chewing sugar-free gum stimulates the production of saliva, which is your body’s natural defense against harmful acids in the mouth. Saliva helps neutralize these acids, wash away food particles, and keep harmful bacteria in check, ultimately reducing the risk of cavities and tooth decay.

The act of chewing also helps to clean the teeth by dislodging food particles from between them, which contributes to better oral hygiene. Plus, it can help neutralize the acids produced by bacteria that can erode tooth enamel.

The Risks of Sugary Gum

On the other hand, gum that contains sugar can have the opposite effect. Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth, which then produce acids that can harm your tooth enamel. This increases the risk of cavities and tooth decay. While chewing sugary gum might taste good in the moment, it’s best to avoid it if you’re concerned about your oral health.

The Role of Xylitol

When choosing gum, it’s a smart idea to look for sugar-free options that contain xylitol, a natural sweetener that has been shown to reduce the risk of cavities. Xylitol helps by preventing cavity-causing bacteria from growing and also helps neutralize acids in the mouth. So, when you choose gum with xylitol, you’re supporting your oral health in a much more effective way.

Fresh Breath and Saliva Production

Another advantage of chewing gum is that it can help freshen your breath. Since it stimulates saliva production, it helps wash away bacteria that contribute to bad breath. Many gums also contain flavors like mint or cinnamon, which can provide an extra boost for keeping your mouth feeling fresh throughout the day.

Not a Substitute for Proper Oral Hygiene

Although chewing sugar-free gum can have benefits for your oral health, it should not replace regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental visits. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and seeing your dentist in Columbus for routine checkups are still essential for maintaining long-term oral health.

In Conclusion

Chewing sugar-free gum can be a simple and effective way to help protect your teeth, freshen your breath, and reduce the risk of cavities. Just be sure to select gum that is free from sugar and ideally contains xylitol for maximum benefit. As always, be sure to follow up with regular dental care to ensure your smile stays healthy and strong! For more personalized advice, contact our team at Family 1st Dental – Columbus today!

Family First Dental – Columbus
Phone: 402-564-7590
2672 33rd Avenue
Columbus, NE 68601

The Truth Behind 5 Popular Dental Misconceptions | Dentist in Columbus NE

Clearing up misconceptions about oral health can help improve personal oral hygiene efforts for a beautiful and healthier smile.  If you keep up with your oral hygiene regimen, dental visits are significantly easier and dental care is more manageable.  

Misconception #1 – My teeth are fine if I have no pain 

Tooth decay (cavities) usually doesn’t cause pain until they become very severe.  Once it gets to this stage, the amount of decay could lead to more invasive and costly treatments.  Some of the most dangerous oral disorders, such as oral cancer and gum disease, typically don’t cause pain at all.  It is important to keep up with scheduled dental appointments.  Our dentist in Columbus can diagnose problems even at its earliest stages when there is no pain. 

Misconception #2 – Cavities are only caused by sweets 

When you eat sweets, the bacteria in your mouth start consuming it and produce acid.  This acid dissolves the enamel of the tooth, which results in tooth decay or cavities.  However, this process happens when you eat anything that is a starch or carbohydrate.  Food and snacks, such as crackers, bread, potato chips, fruit, peanut butter and pasta, have the same effect on your teeth. 

Misconception #3 – If my gums bleed, I should stop flossing 

Bleeding gums are often the first sign of gum disease.  This happens when bacterial infections inflame your gums due to a lack of efficient cleaning.  With regular brushing and flossing, gums will be much healthier and should rarely bleed.  However, gum inflammation can occur despite best oral hygiene habits.  In such instances, you should see improvement if you rinse with warm salt water and continue to brush and floss. 

Misconception #4 – Whiter teeth are healthier teeth 

Healthy teeth come in a wide range of natural shades.  Whiter teeth cannot show if there is an infection or cavity between the teeth.  Although pure white teeth do not equate to healthier teeth, they should still be naturally on the whiter side.  

Misconception #5 – Children are more prone to tooth decay 

Tooth decay (cavities) can develop at any age.  People assume children have poor brushing habits and are more prone to tooth decay.  Cavities form when bacteria cause a loss or weakening in tooth enamel and eventually decay forms a hole in the tooth.  This is usually seen in people with poor brushing and flossing habits, regardless of age.   Excellent oral health promotes overall good health and is definitely not a misconception.  It is important to practice good oral hygiene habits.  If you have any questions regarding your dental health, please contact our Columbus, NE dental office.

Family First Dental – Columbus
Phone: 402-564-7590
2672 33rd Avenue
Columbus, NE 68601

How to Prevent Dry Socket | 68601 Dentist

Alveolar osteitis, more commonly known as dry socket, is a temporary complication that can occur following a tooth extraction. Fortunately, it is rare, preventable, and short-lived. Here are some tips shared by our dentist in 68601 to help avoid dry socket after oral surgery and ensure a quick and comfortable recovery. 

What is Dry Socket? 

When your tooth is extracted, a blood clot forms in the space left behind. This clot helps to block the underlying bone, gum tissue, and nerves from bacterial infection or food debris while the extraction site heals. In rare cases, the clot can be dislodged or not formed correctly, which can leave the site exposed. This is a dry socket.  

The most common sign of dry socket is a throbbing, deep-set discomfort from within the extraction area. A foul smell may emanate, causing bad breath as well as an unappealing taste in your mouth. If this occurs, contact our office right away. 

Risk Factors and Prevention 

Developing dry socket is rare, but certain factors can put you at increased risk. Tobacco use, oral contraceptives, poor oral hygiene, or gum infection around the extraction site can increase your chances. To prevent dry socket, avoid using straws, brushing the extraction area, or rinsing your mouth vigorously during healing. Follow your post-treatment instructions and contact our office if you have questions. 

Treatment and Recovery 

If you do develop dry socket, we will provide quick, effective treatment. Our team will flush the area to remove any debris, and pack the extraction site with gauze or other dressing. Medication may be prescribed to help reduce discomfort. It is important to attend follow-up appointments to ensure your timely recovery. 

Dry socket is rare, and is temporary and treatable when it does occur. Our experienced team will guide you throughout your recovery. For more information on post-extraction care, contact our dental office in Columbus, NE.

Family First Dental – Columbus
Phone: 402-564-7590
2672 33rd Avenue
Columbus, NE 68601

Caring For Dental Implants | Best Dentist Near Me

If you have received a dental implant, you have invested both time and money into the future of your smile. It is important to protect this investment in order to  maintain good oral health. There are certain steps you should take after undergoing a dental implant procedure in order to care for your mouth. 

After the procedure, your mouth might be tender at first. This tenderness only lasts about ten to fourteen days. Your dentist recommends a diet of warm soup, soft foods, and cold foods during this time. Additionally, you should refrain from smoking. Although the healing time for a dental implant tends to vary depending on the patient and the situation, it generally takes between two and four months for your mouth to fully heal after receiving a dental implant. You will not experience discomfort throughout this period, though. 

Once your mouth has healed, caring for an implant is very similar to caring for a natural tooth. Although an implant cannot develop a cavity, it can still undergo the same wear-and-tear as a normal tooth. When not maintained properly, there is a risk for peri-implantitis to occur, which is similar to periodontal disease. However, this is easily preventable through regular check-ups, as well as daily brushing and flossing. 

In order to maintain good oral health, it is important to continue to regularly visit your dentist. Your dentist can clean the areas that you are unable to reach. Additionally, they will be able to check the surrounding gums and bone to ensure that they are healthy. As always, your dentist in 68601 recommends thorough brushing and flossing on a daily basis. Paying  attention to your oral hygiene will ensure that your implant survives. If you continue to maintain good oral hygiene, your implants can last for the rest of your life without a need for replacement.  For questions or to schedule an appointment, please contact our Columbus, NE dental office.

Family First Dental – Columbus
Phone: 402-564-7590
2672 33rd Avenue
Columbus, NE 68601

Stained Teeth | Dentist Columbus NE

Many people want a smile they can be proud of and one way to achieve a dazzling smile is to have pearly white teeth. However, in order to maintain a bright smile, our Columbus dentist says you should be mindful of the types of things you consume. Because of certain factors, some foods or beverages can create harsh stains on your teeth that over time can be difficult to remove. 

When considering foods that can stain teeth, be sure to look out for dark pigments. Some foods or beverages stain teeth because they have an intense amount of pigment molecules that the dentist will call chromogens. These chromogens latch on to dental enamel and cause your teeth to become discolored.  

Another thing to look out for is foods or beverages that are very acidic. Acidic foods and beverages can cause staining by eroding the dental enamel which temporarily softens teeth and makes it easier for chromogens to latch on. 

One rule of thumb for determining whether or not what you’re eating will stain your teeth is to determine if it will stain your white table cloth or carpet. Some of the main foods or beverages to consider would include, wine, coffee, cola, berries, sauces (such as soy sauce, curry sauce, or tomato sauce), and sweets. Also another main culprit for staining teeth is smoking or chewing tobacco.  

Even if you consume dark pigmented or acidic foods, just know that there are a variety of options to help you achieve a pearly white smile. One option that can help prevent stains on your teeth would be to brush and floss twice-a-day. To brush more effectively, be sure to ask your dentist about electric toothbrushes. The electric toothbrush gives you the ability to clean your teeth and to help remove any stains or residue more thoroughly. Also be sure to ask your dentist about teeth whitening treatments that can be provided in the office or at home.  

Contact our dental office in Columbus, NE today for questions or to schedule a dental appointment.

Family First Dental – Columbus
Phone: 402-564-7590
2672 33rd Avenue
Columbus, NE 68601

Don’t Rush to Brush | Columbus Dentist

Are you a diligent brusher who grabs the toothbrush as soon as you finish each snack or meal? While there are significant benefits to regular brushing, hurrying your hygiene might be doing more harm than good. The key lies in understanding the effects different types of food and drinks have on your teeth shared by our dentist in 68601.

The Dangers of Acidic Foods

Food and drinks that contain acids are particularly harmful to your teeth. Acid can wear away at the enamel on your teeth. As your enamel weakens, your risk for developing decay increases.

What Foods Should I Look Out For?

Fruits such as oranges, pineapples, and grapefruit contain problematic acids that can cause damage to your enamel. Diet sodas and wines can be just as damaging, as can fruit juices such as orange juice. Tomato products and foods such as pizza, salsa, soups, and sauces also contain acids. 

But Brushing My Teeth Helps, Right?

Not necessarily. The acids in these foods weaken the enamel on your teeth. After eating or drinking a highly acidic product, your teeth are in a particularly vulnerable state. Enamel protects your teeth, and it is the strongest mineral in your entire body. However, the layers of your teeth beneath the enamel are not as strong and resilient. If you brush your teeth immediately after consuming something acidic, you can drive the acid further into your teeth. This speeds up the process of breaking down your enamel.

When Should I Brush?

Wait about 20 minutes after consuming acidic foods or drinks before brushing your teeth. While waiting, your mouth will produce saliva which helps to neutralize acids and wash away bacteria. Drinking water, rinsing your mouth, or chewing sugarless gum can help neutralize acids more quickly.

Should I Always Wait to Brush My Teeth?

While you should not rush to brush after eating acidic foods, you should not wait long after eating foods that are extremely sticky and sugary. If you are eating candy, taffy, or another sticky treat, waiting is not the best option. The sooner you can clean these sugary substances off your teeth, the better.

Should I Just Stop Eating Acidic Foods?

Acidic foods such as fruits contain vitamins and nutrients that are an essential component to your diet. While you don’t have to avoid these foods altogether, you should be mindful of how they impact your teeth. Maintain a daily oral hygiene schedule that includes regular flossing and at least two rounds of brushing for two minutes.

For more dental health tips, or to schedule your next visit to our Columbus, MD dental office, please contact us.

Family 1st Dental of Columbus
Phone: (402) 564-7590
2672 33rd Avenue
Columbus, NE 68601

Are You Using the Right Mouthwash? | Dentist in 68601

While it should never be used as a replacement for brushing and flossing, mouthwash can be a helpful addition to your at-home oral healthcare routine. Here’s what you need to know in order to pick the best mouthwash for your needs. For more information, or for a personalized recommendation on the best mouthwash for you, contact our 68601 dentist today!

Choosing the Right Mouthwash

Though there are plenty of brands and varieties of mouthwash available, most fall into one of two general categories as recognized by the ADA: cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic mouthwashes treat symptoms only, such temporarily masking bad breath. Therapeutic mouthwashes aim to treat the cause of an issue. Fluoridated anti-cavity mouthwashes are designed to help strengthen the enamel of your teeth and prevent cavities. Anti-bacterial and antiseptic mouthwashes kill odor and disease-causing bacteria in your mouth, with antiseptic options typically having a higher alcohol content. We can help you better understand the difference and find the mouthwash that’s right for your particular needs.

Should I Use Mouthwash?

If you maintain a proper oral care routine at home and visit your dentist at least twice yearly, you might not need to use mouthwash. However, depending on the unique needs of your teeth, it might be beneficial to talk to our dentist about working a specialized mouthwash into your routine. 

Though mouthwash is not an acceptable substitute for regular brushing and flossing, it can be a helpful tool to keep your mouth fresh and clean throughout the day. Swishing mouthwash after eating can help dislodge any food that might be stuck in your teeth and mask any odor that might be lingering on your breath.

Tips for Your Mouthwash Routine

Generally, you want to use mouthwash after flossing, brushing, and rinsing your mouth. Swish the mouthwash around for 30-60 seconds and avoid rinsing, eating, or drinking for at least 30 minutes afterwards to give the mouthwash time to work.

Side Effects of Mouthwash

When used properly, there are minimal risks associated with mouthwash. Many mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can cause a burning sensation in your mouth. If the sensitivity continues long after use or increases over time, ask our dentist about different alcohol-free options. For children, it is important that you supervise their brushing routine, as swallowing mouthwash can be dangerous.

Mouthwash can be a useful tool for anyone. Whether you’re looking to fight bad breath or help protect your mouth from tooth decay or gum disease, the wide array of mouthwashes available means there’s an option for everyone. Talk to our team during your next visit to learn more about the benefits of working mouthwash into your oral care routine.

For more tips on keeping your mouth healthy or to schedule your next appointment to our dental office in Columbus, NE, please contact our dental team today!

Family 1st Dental
Phone: 402-564-7590
2672 33rd Avenue
Columbus, NE 68601

Chewing Gum for Your Oral Health | Dentist Columbus

Sugary, sticky, and sweet candies can damage your teeth by increasing your risk of decay. Though gum can be considered a type of candy, chewing sugarless gum approved by the ADA can actually help protect teeth and prevent tooth decay. Here’s what our 68601 dentist needs you to know about gum and your teeth.

How it Works

Chewing gum helps increase the production of saliva. Chewing sugarless gum for twenty minutes following meals can help prevent tooth decay because the saliva helps wash away food and other debris from the surface of your teeth. Increased salivary flow can also neutralize acids that bacteria produce inside your mouth. Over time, acid can break down tooth enamel, leading to decay. Saliva contains calcium and phosphate, which aid in strengthening tooth enamel. 

Look for the ADA Seal

The ADA Seal assures you that the gum is sugarless and has met the ADA’s criteria for safety and effectiveness. ADA-labeled products are tested to ensure they provide the benefits guaranteed by the seal. Companies must verify all relevant data with the ADA to become certified. If you are unable to brush for a short period of time, chewing gum with the ADA seal is a great option to help clean your teeth after a meal or snack.

Can I Stop Brushing if I Chew Gum?

No. Chewing gum for twenty minutes after a meal helps but is not a replacement for brushing and flossing. You should brush at least twice each day, for two full minutes. Chewing gum also does not eliminate your need for regular dental examinations and dental cleanings. Our dentist recommends scheduling two visits each year, with additional visits necessary for high-risk patients with oral health conditions. 

Chewing sugarless gum has noticeable benefits for your oral health, such as increasing the production of saliva. While this can help prevent the build up of decay-causing bacteria, chewing gum should not be used as a substitute for brushing or flossing. Our dentist recommends that if you are chewing gum, be sure to choose an ADA approved brand of sugarless gum.

To schedule your next visit, please contact our Columbus, NE dental office.

Family 1st Dental
Phone: 402-564-7590
2672 33rd Avenue
Columbus, NE 68601

Understanding Periodontal Disease | 68601 Dentist

Maintaining your gum health is vital to your overall health. When you visit our office for an examination, our trained hygienists perform a periodontal exam. In fact, during your examination, our dentist in 68601 is quietly assessing your oral health by performing a number of checks. Here’s what you need to know about periodontal disease.

Many Names, One Illness

You may have heard periodontal disease referred to as gum disease or gingivitis. Periodontal disease is the inflammation and infection of your gums. These names are frequently used interchangeably.

Signs & Symptoms

Periodontal disease may be marked by swollen and red gums. Bleeding, especially while brushing and flossing, may also occur. Another symptom of periodontal disease is persistent bad breath. If you experience any of these symptoms regularly, please contact our office.

Periodontal Disease Can Impact Your Overall Health

Your gum health is linked to your overall health. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to bleeding gums, gum recession, and tooth loss. The effects of periodontal disease extend well beyond your mouth. In fact, according to the American Academy of Periodontology, the disease can increase your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.

While you may think of your teeth as the primary reason to visit our office for a regular examination, understand that our team is looking beyond your teeth to assess your oral health and potential impacts on your overall health. Talk to our experienced team if you experience any signs or symptoms of periodontal disease. Our team is trained to identify signs of periodontal disease. When detected early and managed properly, periodontal disease is treatable. 

For more information regarding your gum health, please contact our dental office in Columbus, NE, or schedule a visit to see us.

Family 1st Dental of Columbus
Phone: (402) 564-7590
2672 33rd Avenue
Columbus, NE 68601

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Your Premier Choice for General Dentistry in Columbus

Maintaining a healthy smile is a critical element of personal wellness and self-confidence. Finding a reliable dentist in Columbus can bolster both oral health and overall well-being. Family 1st Dental, located at 2672 33rd Avenue, Columbus, NE 68601, stands out […]

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Your Preferred Destination for Expert General Dentistry in Columbus

Family 1st Dental, located at 2672 33rd Avenue, Columbus, NE 68601, is committed to providing expert general dentistry services tailored to meet the diverse needs of the community. From the moment patients step through the door, they are met with […]

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Ensuring Exceptional General Dentistry for the Community of Columbus

Providing quality general dentistry is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health, and Family 1st Dental stands out as a premier choice for dental care in Columbus, Nebraska. Situated at 2672 33rd Avenue, this dental practice is committed to offering comprehensive […]

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