Your Smile: Summer 2012
Download the latest “Your Smile” newsletter. Click on the newsletter below to download the PDF.
What's New with our Dental Office?
CEREC One Visit Crowns
Video: CEREC One Visit Crowns
CEREC technology is an excellent addition to the dentist’s office because it provides accurate, durable restorations in just one trip to the dentist.
You can get a glimpse of this technology in action by watching this helpful video. It shows the process of taking a digital impression that is then used to model a tooth shaped restoration that fits perfectly into your mouth. With CEREC technology, the entire restoration procedure can be completed in one office visit. The materials used for the crowns are customized for each patient, so the restoration is able to last for years.
Find out if CEREC can benefit your smile by scheduling an appointment at the Tucson dental office of Dr. John Carson, DDS. Call us at (520) 514-7203 or visit our website, for all of your cosmetic and preventative dentistry needs.
A Guide to the Quick and Easy CEREC Procedure
If you have been putting off much needed dental work because you do not want to commit to multiple visits to the dentist’s office, CEREC crowns may be the answer for your dental restoration. These crowns are made in just moments using a digital impression of your teeth, so they offer the perfect fit without the need for temporary crowning, messy casts of the teeth, or extensive time in the dentist’s chair.
One office visit for a renewed smile
CEREC crowns are durable tooth restorations made from porcelain fused to gold. They can be used in nearly any situation where traditional crowns are appropriate including repair of the tooth after a root canal, covering misshapen or cracked teeth, and holding a bridge in place. Using advanced digital technology, the CEREC restoration is fitted to your smile. With traditional crowns, messy impressions need to be taken of the teeth before the permanent restoration is crafted in the lab. Traditional crowns often required multiple dental appointments. The CEREC machine creates the permanent crown while you are in the dentist’s chair with the sophisticated technology of computer-aided design.
Life after CEREC crowning
Because the CEREC procedure is so quick and painless, you can return to your normal activities the same day you get your new crown. The porcelain finish of the crown will make it look like one of your natural teeth, and you can care for it just as you would your own tooth enamel with brushing and flossing. CEREC’s digital impression technology allows for crowns that fit seamlessly into your smile, which results in a long-lasting restoration.
Find out exactly what CEREC can do for your smile with Dr. John Carson, DDS. Our Tucson dental office offers this advanced procedure and other preventative and cosmetic dental procedures. Schedule your first consultation with us on our website or call (520) 514-7203.
Cavities: Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention
The most common reason for a person to visit the dentist’s office besides regular check-ups is to take care of dental cavities. A cavity is the result of tooth decay or injury that weakens tooth enamel so that a hole forms in the tooth. If you have a cavity, you may not notice it until you have symptoms of pain and sensitivity. However, cavities can be seen at an earlier stage during a dental exam so that treatment can be administered before symptoms disrupt your routine.
Understanding How Cavities Form
Every time you eat or drink something, residue is left on the teeth and mixes with saliva and bacteria in the mouth. This mixture creates plaque, which eats away at the tooth enamel. Over time, a hole can develop in the tooth that may eventually reach the root. You can reduce your chances of getting a cavity by practicing good dental hygiene including regular brushing and flossing. Choosing nutritious foods that are low in sugar and fat can also help to prevent cavities.
Identifying Cavities
In order to avoid advanced tooth decay, you should visit the dentist regularly so he or she can spot visual signs that a cavity is present. With DIAGNOdent laser technology, your dentist can spot cavities before they are visible to the naked eye. Early diagnosis with DIAGNOdent means that your cavity may be reversible through good dental hygiene since it is still so small.
Treating Cavities
When a cavity is causing pain and other irritating physical symptoms, it has probably reached the inside of the tooth that contains sensitive pulp. At this stage a root canal may be the most effective treatment because much of the tooth’s structure has been compromised. If the cavity is too large to be remedied through home care but not severe enough to require a root canal, it can be filled with a durable composite filling or the tooth can be capped with a crown.
Keep your smile cavity free by visiting Dr. John Carson, DDS in Tucson. Our practice features the latest dental technology to provide you with the most beautiful smile you can imagine. Call us at (520) 514-7203 or visit our website to schedule a consultation.
Find Out More About Crowns, Cavities and Dental Care On These Helpful Websites Below
If you have enjoyed learning about how you can reduce your need for dental restorations, read through these recommended articles for some related information. Get even more help caring for your smile by visiting Dr. John Carson, DDS. Schedule a visit by calling (520) 514-7203.
- Get the basic facts about cavities and tooth decay from the National Institutes of Health.
- OralB offers a list of foods that can preserve the health of your teeth and gums.
- Explore the benefits of electric toothbrushes in this article from the Mayo Clinic.
- The different types of dental materials used for crowns and other restorations are explained by the ADA.
- See why repairing broken teeth is important to the health of your smile with WebMD.com.
Video: How Do Dentists Fix Cavities?
If you have a cavity, it is important to see your dentist for treatment, as the damage can continue to worsen without medical attention.
This video explains the different types of restorations that may be used for cavity treatment. Fillings are most common, and these can be made from a variety of materials. The filling blocks the hole in the tooth so that it cannot continue to get bigger. When cavities reach a certain size, fillings are no longer effective, so the tooth may need to be capped with a porcelain or metal crown.
Keep your smile beautiful and cavity free by visiting John Carson, DDS. Call us at (520) 514-7203 or visit our website to explore our services, including advanced DIAGNOdent laser cavity detection.
Media Summary
March Loyal Hygiene Club Member Winner
Congratulations Mike N. our March 2012 $100 Winner!
Thank You for being a loyal hygiene club member!
Ask Belinda for more details.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Porcelain Crowns?
If you have a damaged tooth that is disrupting the function and appearance of your smile, a crown may be an ideal restoration for you. Crowning a tooth is a now a simple and easy dental procedure with the help of CEREC technology, which allows the restoration to take place in a single office visit.
A dental crown may be made from a variety of materials, but porcelain is among the most desired because of its tooth-like appearance. Here are some of the reasons you may want to opt for a porcelain crown instead of a metal or composite one:
- You have an allergy to gold or other metals: Metal crowns are used because of their durability, but they are not practical for patients with an allergy to metals. Porcelain is a neutral material that will not cause irritation in the mouth, and it offers the benefit of looking and acting like natural tooth enamel.
- You want an aesthetically pleasing result: When you smile, you probably do not want to see a gold plated crown among your sparkling white teeth. Porcelain will blend seamlessly into your smile, and it can be matched to the exact color of your teeth. You can combine the benefit of durability with beautiful porcelain by selecting a crown that is made from porcelain coated metal.
- You want a no-fuss restoration: Since the technology of dental crowns has improved so dramatically with the CEREC system, porcelain crowns are a great solution for patients with busy schedules. Your porcelain restoration can be ready in minutes, and it is easy to clean and care for a porcelain crown at home.
Find the right dental restoration to suit your needs by scheduling a consultation with Dr. John Carson, DDS. Visit our practice’s website or call us at (520) 514-7203 to learn about our cosmetic and restorative services.
February Loyal Hygiene Club Member Winner
Congratulations John C. our February $100 Winner!
Thank You for being a loyal hygiene club member!
Ask Belinda for more details.
Educate Yourself on Preventative and Cosmetic Dentistry Offerings With These Links From Around The Web
Our recent blogs have discussed procedures that can help you achieve and maintain a healthy smile for life. Learn more about caring for your teeth with these articles
- The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry discusses how having an aesthetically pleasing smile can improve your life.
- See how gum contouring works to improve your smile with this article from WebMD.com.
- To prevent cavities and plaque build use these brushing techniques from Colgate.
- Educate yourself about the symptoms of oral cancer by visiting the American Dental Association.
- Read more about the benefits of preventive dentistry as explained by HealthLine.com.
Give your teeth and gums the best care possible with Dr. John Carson, D.D.S. Schedule a consultation on our website or call (520) 514-7203.
40 UNDER 40
Watch this “Behind the Scenes” video of our own Dr. John R. Carson along with his colleges from across the nation getting ready for their appearance in Incisal Edge.
From the video, “They are the future leaders of the industry who are making their mark – Today, incisal Edge Reveals its survey of the top 40 dentists age 40 and under.”
Your Smile: Winter 2012
Download the latest “Your Smile” newsletter. Click on the newsletter below to download the PDF.
What to Look For in Preventive Dental Treatments
Within the dental community, there has been a recent shift in attitude toward patient care. In the past, the focus of dental visits was treating existing conditions. Now more dentists are focused on preventing common dental problems through proactive office procedures and at-home care tips. Here are some of the qualities of effective preventive care to save you the pain and hassle of future dental issues:
- Protection from tooth decay: The leading cause for restorative dental treatments is damage related to tooth decay. Therefore, the battle against tooth decay should be on the forefront of your preventive care plan. Patients of Dr. John Carson, D.D.S. are cared for with DIAGNOdent technology that can detect tooth decay at its earliest stages using laser light. The most accurate and effective recommendations can be made for patient care when problems are diagnosed at such a young stage.
- Screening for oral cancer: Much like skin cancer, oral cancer will present physical symptoms that can be identified by a dentist or hygienist during a routine check-up. Ask your dentist about oral cancer screening and discuss any habits that may increase your risk including tobacco and alcohol use.
- Diagnostics using digital radiography: Traditional film methods of x-ray and dental diagnostics cannot compare to the clarity and patient comfort provided by digital radiography. For both panoramic and standard dental x-rays, digital imaging offers superior images to help the dentist make an accurate diagnosis while reducing your exposure to radiation.
- Treatments to address specific needs: Some dental conditions are the result of injury that can be prevented with protective devices. Mouthguards are custom made devices that can help athletes and other active individuals avoid sustaining injuries to the teeth, gums, and inner cheek.
Don’t let serious dental problems sneak up on you. For superior preventive dental care in Tucson, Arizona, schedule a consultation with Dr. John Carson, D.D.S. Contact our office by calling (520) 514-7203 or visiting our website.
Video: Gingivitis Detection & Prevention
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease that is marked by bleeding gums that become irritated during brushing and flossing.
This video talks about preventing gingivitis through positive dental habits and proactive care at the dentist’s office. A periodontal evaluation will measure the pocket depth of the gums to assess how much, if any, damage to the gum tissue has occurred. Gingivitis is reversible, and it can be easily managed with good brushing and flossing to reduce the buildup of plaque.
Learn more about gingivitis and its treatment by scheduling an appointment in the office of Dr. John Carson, D.D.S. Contact us on our website or call (520) 514-7203 for a complete overview of our dental services.
3 Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures that Can Enhance Your Smile
A beautiful smile can positively impact your life in many ways, but none more so than the simple urge to smile more often. If there are features of your smile that you are not pleased with, you may want to consider procedures like those listed below that can improve the look and function of your teeth and gums.
- Porcelain Veneers: Patients love the aesthetic effects of porcelain veneers along with the long list of benefits that porcelain offers as a restorative material. The material looks and acts like natural tooth enamel, but it is much easier to clean because it boasts stain resistance. Veneers are used for a variety of purposes including the correction of crooked teeth, poor spacing between the teeth, discoloration, and chips in the teeth. They can be applied to one or many teeth over a series of three office visits.
- Gum contouring: The gums are often overlooked when it comes to cosmetic dentistry, but an optimal tooth to gum ratio is part of a beautiful smile. If you have gum tissue that is too visible when you smile, gum contouring can restore the proportionality of your smile. It is a comfortable procedure performed over just a few visits to the dentist’s office.
- Clear Orthodontics: Many patients who would benefit from orthodontic work are finding great comfort and successful results with the clear braces systems. These braces can correct common orthodontic issues like overbite, underbite, and crooked teeth without the trouble of metal wires in traditional braces. The transition in your smile will gradually take place before your eyes, and you won’t even be able to see the braces when they are on.
Explore these and more cosmetic treatments to improve your smile with Dr. John Carson, D.D.S. Our practice is committed to providing Tucson residents with the highest level of dental care using the most advanced technology available. Call us at (520) 514-7203 or visit our website to schedule your initial consultation with us.
January Loyal Hygiene Club Member Winner
Congratulations Diane B. our January $100 Winner!
Thank You for being a loyal hygiene club member!
Ask Belinda for more details.
How to Remedy Stained Teeth with Whitening Procedures
Your teeth may become stained or yellowed over time for a variety of reasons, even if you are on top of your at-home dental care. Commonly consumed foods like berries, coffee, and dark-colored sauces all discolor teeth. Certain habits like smoking cigarettes or not rinsing after eating may also lead to stains.
There are many products available over-the-counter for teeth whitening, but to get the truly bright and sparkling smile you want, you should visit your cosmetic dentist for professional teeth whitening services. At the office of Dr. John Carson, we offer two options for teeth whitening that may be appropriate for your smile:
- In-Office Whitening
Whitening procedures in the office produce dramatic results in one sitting. Because our hygienists are able to closely monitor the whitening process, the whitening gel we use is of a higher concentration than over-the-counter products, which will produce quicker results.
- Prescription Whitening Trays
The long-lasting effects of deep whitening from a one- to two-week treatment with prescription whitening gel can remove even the toughest stains. The gel and trays are provided for you with thorough instruction from the dentist so that you can see beautiful results with minimal effort.
Consult the dentist before beginning any whitening treatment. Even if a store-bought solution is right for you, over-the-counter whitening products should only be used under the instruction of a physician. Your dentist will be able to assess the exact degree of whitening you need and guide you toward the right treatment based on your oral care history.
Find out about more ways to enhance the beauty of your smile by scheduling a consultation with Dr. John Carson, DDS. Contact our Tucson office by visiting our website, or call us today at (520) 514-7203 to learn more about our services.
To Learn More About Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures, Visit These Educational Resources
If you have enjoyed our recent information about improving your smile with the advanced technology of CEREC crowns and professional whitening systems, read through the links below for an in-depth look at these procedures:
- WebMD.com reviews the foods that have the largest impact on yellowing teeth.
- Review the basics of proper dental hygiene with this page from the Mayo Clinic.
- Learn the advantages of professional whitening over at-home systems on this page from EverydayHealth.com.
- CERECOnline.com explains the benefits of the CEREC crown procedure over traditional crowns.
- Find out if a dental crown will benefit your smile with this MedicineNet.com article.
Schedule your consultation for a smile makeover with Dr. John Carson, DDS by calling our Tucson office at (520) 514-7203.
Video: A Video Overview of CEREC
One of the most extraordinary uses of computer technology in dentistry is the CEREC crown system. This system eliminates the hassle associated with traditional crowns while still restoring the health and beauty of your smile.
This video shows how CEREC works. First, the tooth is prepared with a reflective powder. Then, digital images of your mouth are taken. The computer uses this information to chart the exact dimensions of the tooth so a customized crown can be placed. The tooth-colored crown is made in just moments. Your dentist will then place the crown in your mouth. Your bite will be tested to ensure that the restoration is comfortable and functional.
See if CEREC is right for you by contacting the office of Dr. John Carson, DDS in Tucson. Schedule your consultation on our website or by calling (520) 514-7203 today.
The Benefits of Using CEREC for Tooth Restoration
A chipped, cracked, or damaged tooth can be easily fixed with a dental crown that works to support the remaining structure of the natural tooth. Today, crowns are an even more effective dental procedure with the use of the CEREC system, which reduces the crowning process to only one dental office visit. Here are some of the wonderful advantages you will experience when you opt for CEREC crowns:
No Need for Impressions
In order to match the shape and curve of your bite, traditional crowns require impressions of the teeth using messy elastic material. With CEREC, your mouth is mapped out digitally, which takes less time and poses no discomfort. The computer system then uses this information to sculpt a crown that fits perfectly with the rest of your teeth. CEREC crowns are the ideal solution for dental restorations in patients who may not have time for the office visits required for traditional crowns or dental implants.
No Temporary Crowns
The entire CEREC process is performed while you are in the office, so you will not need a temporary crown while a permanent one is made in the lab. This allows you the freedom of enjoying your favorite foods right after your crown is placed.
Attractive Results
The restorations produced by CEREC are tooth-colored overlays that are hard to distinguish from your natural teeth. Where traditional crowns might be made from metal or bulky porcelain, CEREC crowns are remarkably durable yet incredibly non-invasive to the remaining healthy tooth.
If your smile is suffering due to poorly shaped or damaged teeth, visit Dr. John Carson, DDS. Our office features the latest advancements in dental technology to keep your smile bright and healthy with minimal downtime for you. Schedule a consultation in our Tucson office by visiting our website or calling (520) 514-7203.
Learn about the Advantages of Preventive Dentistry with these Helpful Resources
Choosing a dental office with a compassionate staff that can facilitate the highest quality treatment will offer long-term benefits to the health and beauty of your smile. To see what advanced dental technology and a caring medical staff can do for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. John Carson, D.D.S. at (520) 514-7203 and explore the following resources.
- Understand your risk for gum disease with this assessment from the American Academy of Periodontology.
- The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry explains the importance of preventive care from an early age.
- This article from The New York Times discusses the innovative technology of DIAGNOdent lasers.
- Learn how the Isolite system can make your visits to the dentist more comfortable at IsoliteSystems.com.
- Check out the benefits of Cerec tooth restoration at CerecOnline.com.
December Loyal Hygiene Club Member Winner
Congratulations Tara S. our December $100 Winner!
Thank You for being a loyal hygiene club member!
Ask Belinda for more details.
Dental Technology Working to Make Dental Treatment a Faster, More Comfortable Experience
Scheduling regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups is an essential part of a complete oral hygiene routine. Recent technological advances in dentistry facilitate more accurate diagnoses in less time and increase patient comfort. At the office of Dr. John Carson, D.D.S., we have implemented cutting-edge tools to provide the best possible experience every time you visit our Tucson office. Here are some of the featured products we use for your comfort:
- DIAGNOdent: This revolutionary laser is a breakthrough in tooth decay treatment that detects potential cavities at the earliest possible stage of their development. This facilitates a more proactive treatment plan to prevent the need for a root canal and to restore the health of your teeth.
- Cerec: Yesterday’s tooth restoration methods required several office visits, temporary crowns, and messy impressions. The Cerec system has made it possible to craft permanent tooth-colored restorations in just a few moments. The computer-guided system takes a digital map of your teeth and designs a crown that fits perfectly into your bite.
- Isolite: You can relax and rest in the dentist’s chair with the Isolite lighted mouthpiece. This tool is easily inserted in just a few seconds and provides optimum patient comfort. The dentist can work faster and have greater visibility while you sit back and let your jaw rest comfortably.
- Digital radiography and intraoral cameras: Images of your mouth can now be seen like never before with advanced oral photography systems of digital imaging. These systems allow you to be more involved with your dental treatment because they clearly show oral defects in high resolution without the downtime of developing film images.
To see this technology in action, schedule a consultation with Dr. John Carson by visiting our practice’s website or calling (520) 514-7203. We offer all Tucson residents complete dental care that is quick, painless, and effective.
iTunes App The Dental Expert
Learning about dental care is the first step toward maintaining a healthy and sparkling smile. From the basics on daily care to the details of orthodontics, background knowledge can help you understand dental treatments your dentist recommends and the best ways to improve your teeth and gums.
The Dental Expert app features a large database of information from the professionals so you can reduce your discomfort at the dentist’s office and maintain proper oral hygiene for life. Armed with this valuable knowledge, you can make the most out of your regular dental visits by asking the right questions.
For superior dental care in the Tucson area, schedule a consultation with Dr. John Carson, D.D.S. Contact our office online or call us at (520) 514-7203.
How Comprehensive Dental Work Can Save You Time, Money, and Discomfort
An outdated school of thought is that visits to the dentist should only be made when you are experiencing pain or discomfort in the teeth and gums. This is problematic because a large amount of damage may have already occurred by the time symptoms begin to develop. Utilizing preventive care and correcting existing damage with restorative services can help you maintain optimum oral health, avoid the pain of complex dental treatments, and prevent irreversible damage.
What is Preventive Dentistry?
Thanks to current dental technology, including advanced imaging techniques, your dentist can detect problems at their earliest stages of development and help you prevent further damage before extensive treatment is necessary. Your dentist can also offer specific products that will keep your teeth in prime condition. Dental sealants are an effective way to block tooth decay, and protective mouth guards can save active individuals from painful and expensive injuries. Gum treatment is also an essential part of preventive care; periodontal disease is an incredibly common problem among Americans, but it is highly treatable when identified early.
How Does Cosmetic Dentistry Contribute to Comprehensive Care?
In spite of the name, cosmetic dentistry actually does as much for the health of your teeth and gums as it does for their appearance. Repairing imperfections in the teeth preserves the integrity of the bite, which reduces the chances of injury, tooth loss, and decay. Investing in restorative treatment can help patients stay motivated to care for their teeth and continue healthy habits.
The office of Dr. John Carson, D.D.S. is dedicated to providing all the necessary services to keep your mouth healthy through quick and efficient office visits. Our Tucson facilities feature cutting-edge technology that makes personalized treatment a possibility for every patient. Schedule a consultation to see the difference we can make in your oral health by visiting our website or calling (520) 514-7203.
The Doctors TV Show Cerec Crown
Video: The Doctors TV Show Cerec Crown
Traditional dental crowns require several office visits to shape, customize, and implant. Cerec technology eliminates the need for multiple trips to the dentist’s office and produces the same results as traditional crowns.
This video shows Cerec technology in action. In just moments, this machine takes a digital impression of the patient’s tooth and creates a crown that fits in every dimension of the mouth. Patients don’t have to worry about wearing a temporary crown or having messy impressions made.
Dr. John R. Carson, DDS offers Cerec crowns in addition to all the latest dental care technology. Call us at (520) 514-7203 to schedule your next dental appointment.
November Loyal Hygiene Club Member Winner
Congratulations Michael C. our November $100 Winner!
Thank You for being a loyal hygiene club member!
Ask Belinda for more details.
The Benefits of Visiting a Dentist Who Uses Digital Radiography and Intraoral Cameras
X-rays have long been a common part of yearly dental checkups, used by dentists to evaluate abnormalities in the teeth and gums that may require treatment. However, the X-ray process has vastly improved with the use of digital radiography. In addition to being safer than traditional film X-rays, digital X-rays produce more accurate images with minimal discomfort to the patient. Here are some of the features of digital radiography that will enhance the quality of your dental care:
- Instantly available images: Without the need to develop film images, your dentist can take X-rays and review them with you immediately. Using a computer screen, the images are easily enhanced, enlarged, and stored to streamline your dentist visits. The image quality is higher than that of film and the images can instantly be shared between computers and sent to specialists.
- Lower doses of radiation: Digital radiography is a safe diagnostic procedure because it produces only a fraction of the radiation of film X-rays. Plus, the images can be touched up after they are taken so the necessity to retake X-rays is fairly low.
- Better patient understanding of oral hygiene: Using the advanced images of digital X-rays coupled with the live imaging of intraoral cameras, your dentist can explain the necessity for certain dental treatments while showing you the extent of damage. While X-rays show the teeth below the gums, intraoral cameras show patients the outer surfaces of the teeth and gums on a high-resolution screen.
If you would like to experience the benefits of high-tech digital radiography, then schedule an appointment with Dr. John Carson, DDS at (520) 514-7203. Our office provides preventative, cosmetic, and restorative services using the latest in dental technology, including digital X-rays and intraoral cameras.
Check Out These Resources On Preventative and Restorative Dentistry
Your dentist can help you smile beautifully for life by correcting existing damage to your teeth and helping you practice good habits to preserve your oral health. Dr. John R. Carson, DDS offers Tucson residents complete dental services, including root canals, dental implants, and gum disease treatment. Learn more online or call our offices at (520) 514-7203.
- For facts about dental X-rays, visit Colgate.com.
- Wired.com explains the benefits of intraoral cameras during dental exams.
- Check out WebMD.com to understand when root canals are appropriate.
- See the anatomy of the tooth at the National Institutes of Health’s encyclopedia.
- Review the dangers of tooth decay with this article from the ADA.
Understanding Why Root Canals Can Become Necessary
Each tooth in your mouth contains sensitive nerve tissue called pulp. When the exterior of the tooth is damaged, the pulp may become infected, causing extreme pain and sensitivity. When a root canal is performed, a dentist can save the body of the tooth and eliminate discomfort by extracting the pulp and sealing the tooth. Because the pulp is only present for sensory function like detecting temperature or pain, the tooth can function without that tissue present.
What Causes Damage to Teeth?
The teeth are protected by strong enamel that can wear away over time in a process known as tooth decay. Once the enamel is penetrated, bacteria can work through the dentin into the pulp, causing it to become infected. The pulp may also become exposed as a result of an oral injury that cracks or fractures the tooth. Repeated dental work and large fillings are other opportunities for bacteria to thrive inside the teeth.
How Can Root Canals Be Prevented?
Patterns of consistently good dental hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist, are important to preventing tooth decay and damage. However, unanticipated injuries that compromise the health of your teeth can occur. Once a tooth is damaged, it is best treated as soon as possible. A root canal is a safe and effective treatment, and it allows you to retain the structure of your tooth. Without treatment, an abscess may form, causing extensive damage to the jaw, soft gum tissues, and facial appearance. If the tooth is sensitive, discolored, or sore, then your dentist may advise a root canal.
To restore your dental health, contact the offices of Dr. John R. Carson, DDS. We provide comprehensive dental care to Tucson residents with services including root canals, crowns, porcelain veneers, and tooth whitening. Schedule a consultation on our website or call us at (520) 514-7203.
October Loyal Hygiene Club Member Winner
Congratulations Thomas V. our October $100 Winner!
Thank You for being a loyal hygiene club member!
Ask Belinda for more details.
Check Out These Great Resources to Learn More About Our Recent Blog Topics!
Our recent blog topics have focused on the myths surrounding fluoride and what to expect from a root canal. If you found these topics interesting and would like to learn more about them, check out these informative links from around the Web:
- Over at ADHA.org is a quick guide to the facts about fluoride and the fluoridation of community water.
- The American Dental Association has a helpful pamphlet answering some frequently asked questions about fluoride.
- LiveScience.com checks in with an article outlining some common myths about fluoride.
- To learn more about root canals and dental health, check out this article at Colgate.com.
- Drugs.com talks about root canal treatment and what to expect during the procedure.
- Over at WebMD is an informative article about dental root canals and how they work.
For more information, call John Carson DDS at (520) 514-7203.
Busting the Myths About Fluoride
Asking for opinions about fluoride is likely to yield you as many different opinions as people you asked. With so much written on the subject in recent years on the Internet, it is easy to get caught up in the myths surrounding fluoride. Dentists in Tucson and throughout the United States recommend the use of fluoride, but the voices of dissent are often incredibly persuasive. So what is true and what is false when it comes to fluoride?
MYTH: Fluoridation Causes Diseases
Research published in 2000 on the subject of fluoride-related neurological disorders is the modern source for this myth, which has been around for 70 years. This most recent argument against fluoride in the water supply has not been verified despite numerous studies. Drinking fluoridated water is also commonly said to increase risk of cancer; this is also false.
MYTH: Tooth Decay has Declined Independent of Fluoridation
Many European countries had stopped the practice of fluoridation by 1970, and continued to see declines in tooth decay that were on par with countries that had continued with fluoridation. While this is commonly expressed as an argument against fluoridation, these declines are more commonly, and correctly, attributed to better dental care. Additionally, tooth decay rates in the United States are actually going up amongst children—a demographic who often has limited exposure to fluoridated water as bottled water becomes more popular.
FACT: Fluoridated Water is Effective
Since World War II—a sample size of more than 50 years—the fluoridation of drinking and community water has reduced tooth decay by upwards of 60%. Fluoride is proven to reduce the risk of cavities and decrease tooth decay, and fluoridated liquids are responsible for almost 75% of the fluoride consumption in the United States.
Fluoridation has been used successfully in the United States for more than 50 years, and is an incredibly cost-effective way to help the public maintain their oral health. For more information, call John Carson DDS at (520) 514-7203. We are one of the most trusted dentists in Tucson, specializing in cosmetic dentistry and utilizing the latest technology. From root canals to teeth whitening, we provide expert, personalized, dental care to patients throughout the Tucson community.
What Happens During a Root Canal
A root canal is a common dental procedure performed in the United States, and it is done to treat and repair teeth affected by decay. Here, we will briefly go over what the procedure does, how it’s performed, and signs that a person may need to undergo a root canal.
What is a Root Canal?
The root canal procedure is a dental procedure used to treat and repair tooth decay. Each tooth has a natural cavity in the center of the tooth that is filled with soft pulp and nerve endings. When the tooth becomes decayed or infected, dentists perform a root canal to remove the affected pulp.
How the Process Works
Root canals are designed to treat decay and treat and prevent infection by removing the affected tissue and sealing the natural tooth cavity, thus preventing future infection. Because the pulp and nerves on the inside of the tooth aren’t vital to the normal function of the teeth, they can be removed when infected without interfering with tooth health or function.
Why Root Canals Might Be Necessary
When nerves and pulp become damaged, the tissue breaks down, causing bacteria to grow and multiply inside the natural tooth cavity. This causes infection and decay, eventually leading to abscessed teeth and bone loss around the tooth root. If you are experiencing severe, persistent tooth pain, prolonged tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, darkening of the teeth, or swelling and tenderness of the gums, then you may need a root canal.
For those who need them, root canals are vitally important to maintaining oral health. For more information, call John Carson DDS at (520) 514-7203. We are one of the most trusted dentists in all of Tucson. Utilizing the latest technology to provide personalized dental care, we specialize in a range of dental procedures, including root canals, teeth whitening, and dental crowns.
Diagnodent – Laser Cavity Detection
Locating and treating tooth decay is one of the most common procedures in cosmetic dentistry. Tooth decay causes a wide range of dental problems, making early detection and treatment incredibly important. However, the two most prevalent detection methods—visual inspection and x-rays—are somewhat limited in their effectiveness.
Diagnodent is a revolutionary new method for detecting tooth decay inside teeth. Using lasers and a sophisticated sensor to locate tooth decay in its early stages, dentists are able to provide treatment to problem areas much faster than through x-rays and visual inspections.
Watch this video to see Diagnodent in action, and call John Carson DDS for more information at (520) 514-7203. Specializing in cosmetic dentistry, we are one of the most trusted Tucson dentists. We use the latest technology to provide personalized care, from teeth whitening to root canals.
September Loyal Hygiene Club Member Winner
Congratulations Matthew R. our September $100 Winner!
Thank You for being a loyal hygiene club member!
Ask Belinda for more details.
August Loyal Hygiene Club Member Winner
Congratulations Jutta S. our August $100 Winner!
Thank You for being a loyal hygiene club member!
Ask Belinda for more details.
Workplace Excellence Award Finalist!
Dr. Carson has been selected as a finalist for the Workplace Excellence Award. We are very proud and honored to receive this nomintation and to become a finalist.
Dr. John Carson is a Sponsor for the Women’s Spa & Wellness Showcase!
Dr. Carson was one of the sponsors for the Journal Broadcast Group’s Women’s Spa & Wellness Showcase event on Saturday, March 13th 2010, at La Encantada Mall in Tucson, Arizona.
The event was loads of fun and the entire Dr. Carson team met some really nice folks and gave away lots of great items.
We were visited by many of our patients. Dr. Carson was also interviewed for the radio.
Holiday Team Photo 2009
Left to Right: Tracy, Dr. Carson, Shelly, Kim W, Kim C, Tamera
New Website
New and improved website. www.johnrcarsondds.com
Meet John R. Carson, D.D.S. – azstarnet.com Article
Read an article in the azstarnet.com about Dr. John Carson DDS.
Dr. John Carson is Presenting Sponsor for the Women’s Spa & Wellness Showcase!
Dr. Carson was one of the presenting sponsors for the Journal Broadcast Group’s Women’s Spa & Wellness Showcase event on Saturday, October 3rd at La Encantada Mall in Tucson, Arizona.
Dr. Carson was joined by one of his raving fans and patients, Mrs. Arizona America 2009, Elisa M. Rister.
The event was loads of fun and the entire Dr. Carson staff met some really nice folks and gave away lots of great items.
Watch for the next Women’s Spa & Wellness Showcase event on March 13th 2010.
