Last updated 1 year ago
Advancements in dental technology are improving the way cosmetic dentists detect decay and other oral health problems. If you would like to learn more about how new dental technologies can help your smile, then check out this video.
This video examines Diagnodent, which is a handy tool that uses a laser to detect minute decay underneath the enamel of a tooth. You’ll learn about how the lasers work and why they work better than traditional dental tools used in cavity detection. Lastly, you’ll learn about how your dental health can benefit from laser cavity detection methods.
You can benefit from Diagnodent by visiting the office of Gerald W. McDougal, DDS in Austin, TX. We believe your smile deserves the best that dental technology can offer, so we maintain a modern, state-of-the-art facility and offer a range of services. Learn more about our practice by calling us at (512) 271-6618.
Last updated 1 year ago
Millions of people experience anxiety before visiting your cosmetic dentist in Austin because they fear feeling pain, getting bad news, or having to pay for costly dental treatments. However, avoiding the dentist could lead to serious health problems such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Use the following tips to take the anxiety out of your next dental appointment so you can protect your mouth.
1. Talk to Your Dentist
If you are nervous about a dental procedure, then talk to your dentist about what you can expect. You may be surprised to learn how simple and minimally invasive the procedure will be. Ask your dentist to explain the specifics about what will be done during the procedure, how much pain you can expect to feel, and how long the recovery will take. Since most anxiety stems from a fear of the unknown, talking with your dentist may help relieve the stress you feel.
2. Bring Headphones
Some people experience anxiety when they hear noises from dental drills and other equipment. If you want to avoid hearing unnerving sounds, then bring your headphones and music player. Listening to your favorite song or a podcast can help keep your mind off of the dental procedure.
3. Consider Sedation Dentistry
If the above tips don’t provide enough relief from your dental anxiety, then talk to your dentist about sedation dentistry. Most dental clinics offer multiple types of sedation dentistry, including nitrous oxide, IV sedation, and oral sedation. It’s unwise to avoid dental care, so ask your dentist about how he or she can make the procedure less stressful for you.
If you would like to talk to a compassionate dental expert about sedation dentistry, then call Gerald W. McDougal, DDS at (512) 271-6618 to schedule an appointment. We’ve created a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere to help our patients enjoy visiting the dentist.
Last updated 1 year ago
Thanks Agnes for bringing a touch of Spring into our office. :)
Last updated 1 year ago
Oral cancer is more prevalent than cervical cancer, Hodgkin's lymphoma, skin cancer, and thyroid cancer. It is also difficult to detect, which is why it’s imperative to have your mouth examined by your cosmetic dentist in Austin, TX every year. If you're curious to know more about oral cancer, then look below.
Oral cancer can occur as oral-cavity cancer or as oropharyngeal cancer. Oral-cavity cancer starts in the mouth, usually appearing on the interior cheeks or tongue. Oropharyngeal cancer develops in the throat just behind the mouth.
- What are Risk Factors for Oral Cancer?
The common risk factors for oral cancer include smoking or chewing tobacco, drinking alcohol, poor oral hygiene, and contracting the human papilloma virus. Oral cancer used to typically affect people over the age of 40. However, researchers have found a link between oral cancer and the human papilloma virus, which could explain the increase in oral cancer among the younger generations.
- How Deadly is Oral Cancer?
More than 80 percent of patients who receive early detection and treatment of oral cancer will survive. However, oral cancer is extremely hard to detect, and those who are not diagnosed early have little chance of beating it.
- Why is Oral Cancer so Hard to Detect?
Detecting oral cancer is challenging because changes in the color of the oral tissue often don’t appear until the cancer has strengthened and spread. In addition, most people don’t visit their dentist regularly or request oral cancer screenings every year. To detect oral cancer, dentists often use an oral die that illuminates hard-to-see changes in the color of the oral tissues and tongue. Dentists recommend that patients undergo oral cancer screenings at least once a year, but more often for those who have a family history of oral cancer. As with other cancers, early detection and treatment is essential.
If you would like to schedule an oral cancer screening, then call the office of Gerald W. McDougal, DDS today. We’ll provide a thorough exam and offer tips on how to prevent oral cancer. To schedule an appointment, call us at (512) 271-6618.
Last updated 1 year ago
If you're looking for more information about the dental procedures you may need to improve your smile, then look to the following articles for helpful tips and answers. If you’re in need of general or cosmetic dentistry services, then choose a certified dental health specialist you can trust—Gerald W. McDougal, DDS. For over 40 years, our office has offered cutting-edge technology and a wide range of dental services. For a complete look at why our practice stands out among the competition, call (512) 271-6618 or visit our website today.
- For more information about the alternatives to dental amalgam fillings, read through this article provided by the Food and Drug Administration.
- If you aren’t currently practicing good oral health, then you could be at risk for gum disease and tooth loss. Take a look at this article to learn the best ways to maintain proper oral health.
- Review this detailed article from the American Dental Association to learn about all of your dental filling options.
- Take an in-depth look into the field of orthodontics by visiting this webpage. You’ll learn about why orthodontics are beneficial, when they’re necessary, how orthodontic treatments work, and more.
- Untreated gum disease can lead to upper respiratory problems, oral bone loss, severe tooth decay, and oral discomfort. You can learn all about the two main types of gum disease, how they form, and how you can prevent them from taking over your mouth by visiting this website.
- Find the best type of floss for your mouth by reading through this short article. You’ll learn that all floss is effective, but each has particular advantages.
- If you would like to take a comprehensive look at the many different types of dental radiography and compare benefits of intraoral radiography versus digital imaging, then check out this website.
- Learn more about the basics of laser gum therapy and other common periodontal procedures from this website.
