# Dr. Malterud --- ## Pages - [schedule](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/schedule) - [Resources](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/resources): Dr. Mark’s Minimally Invasive Dentistry Column Planning for failure: creating dental crumple zones Continuing education holds the key to minimally... - [Sitemap](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/sitemap): Sitemap - [Style Guide](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/style-guide) - [About](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/about): Learn more about Dr. Mark Malterud by watching our videos below - [Patient Reviews](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/patient-reviews): Patient Reviews - [Blog](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog) - [Contact](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/contact) - [Schedule Online Appointment](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/schedule-online-appointment): Free Consultation or Schedule an Appointment Online! Submit your information below to get started! - [Home](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/) --- ## Posts --- ## Services - [Healthy Start](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/healthystart) - [Collagen Laser For Snoring](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/collagen-laser-for-snoring) - [Clear Aligners](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/clear-aligners) - [Accidents and Trauma](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/accidents-trauma) - [Oral Systemic Connection](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/oral-systemic-connection) - [Ozone Dentistry](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/ozone-dentistry) - [Exams and Cleanings](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/exams-cleanings) - [Dentures & Partials](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/dentures) - [Dental Crowns and Bridges](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/dental-crowns-bridges) - [Pediatric Dentistry](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/pediatric-dentistry) - [Root Canals](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/root-canals) - [Sleep Apnea](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/sleep-apnea) - [Bale Doneen Method™](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/bale-doneen-method) - [Perio Protect®](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/perio-protect) - [Biofilm Management](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/biofilm-management) - [Cavity Detection](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/cavity-detection) - [Cone Beam 3D Imaging](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/cone-beam-3d-imaging) - [Laser Dentistry](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/laser-dentistry) - [NuCalm®](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/nucalm) - [Sterilization](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/sterilization) - [Teeth Whitening](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/teeth-whitening) - [Cosmetic Dentistry](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/cosmetic-dentistry) - [Dental Implants](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/dental-implants) - [Headaches and TMJ Disorder](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/tmj) - [Mercury Free Dentistry](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/services/mercury-free-dentistry) --- ## Blog - [Spring Cleaning Tips from Our Saint Paul Dentist](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/spring-cleaning-tips-from-our-saint-paul-dentist): In the heart of Saint Paul, Minnesota, you’ll find The Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry, where Drs. Mark and... - [Discovering the Vital Connection: Dental Implants and Optimal Bone Health](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/discovering-the-vital-connection-dental-implants-and-optimal-bone-health): Welcome to The Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry, where we’re committed to not only restoring your smile but also... - [Our Saint Paul Dentist Talks About Spring Cleaning Your Smile](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/our-saint-paul-dentist-talks-about-spring-cleaning-your-smile): It’s that time of year; when we clean and refresh our spaces for the warmer months to come. Well, our... - [Try Incorporating These Tips From Our Saint Paul Dentist Into Your Afternoon Routine](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/try-incorporating-these-tips-from-our-saint-paul-dentist-into-your-afternoon-routine): We all take special care to clean our smile morning and night, but what if there was more that you... - [Resolve to Have a Healthier Smile in 2022! The St. Paul General Dentist Shares Explains How](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/resolve-to-have-a-healthier-smile-in-2020-the-st-paul-general-dentist-shares-explains-how): We all have good intentions when we make our New Year’s resolutions, but carrying through with them is another matter... - [Highland Park Dental Care Dentist Explains Benefits of Invisalign™](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland_park_dental_care_dentist_explains_benefits_of_invisalign): A beautiful smile is one of the first things people notice about you. If you have crooked or uneven teeth,... - [Our Saint Paul Dentists Help Patients Maintain Oral Health During The Holidays](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/our-saint-paul-dentists-help-patients-maintain-oral-health-during-the-holidays): As we move into the holiday season, we look forward to a period of celebration and togetherness. We cannot forget,... - [St. Paul TruDenta Dentist Answers Your Questions About This State-of-the-Art Treatment](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-trudenta-dentist-answers-your-questions-about-this-state-of-the-art-treatment): Our St. Paul dental team is proud to offer TruDenta treatment to our dental patients battling facial and neck pain.... - [Our Saint Paul Dentist Explains The Underlying Causes Of Sensitive Teeth and Gums](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/our-saint-paul-dentist-explains-the-underlying-causes-of-sensitive-teeth-and-gums): Is tooth pain or sensitivity keeping you from getting the most out of your daily routine? If you find that... - [Saint Paul Dentist Helps You Know What To Do When Assessing And Picking Dental Tools](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-helps-you-know-what-to-do-when-assessing-and-picking-dental-tools): Not all dental tools and formulations are created equal. It is worth it to the time to compare oral hygiene... - [Saint Paul Dentist Talks About The Ways In Which Stress Can Impact Dental Health](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-talks-about-the-ways-in-which-stress-can-impact-dental-health): In many ways, our overall wellbeing and health can affect our smiles. Today, our Saint Paul dentists are going to... - [Refine Your Daily Routine With Support From Our Saint Paul Dentists](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/refine-your-daily-routine-with-support-from-our-saint-paul-dentists): Maintaining a top-notch daily dental routine will help you in a number of ways. You will be less likely to... - [Optimize Your Brushing Routine With These Tips From Our Saint Paul Dentists](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/optimize-your-brushing-routine-with-these-tips-from-our-saint-paul-dentists): Has your daily oral hygiene routine stalled out at the first, most basic level of care? Let’s make sure it... - [The St. Paul General Dentist Explains How to Achieve Oral Health through Prevention](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/the-st-paul-general-dentist-explains-how-to-achieve-oral-health-through-prevention): Left untreated, dental infections and periodontal disease will not only affect the appearance of your smile but can destroy your... - [Saint Paul Dentist Helps You Determine Whether Your Smile Is Affected By Medications](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-helps-you-determine-whether-your-smile-is-affected-by-medications): The state of your smile is intricately connected with your overall health and wellbeing. Essentially, anything you put in your... - [St. Paul General Dentist Explains the Benefits of Polymer Dentures](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-general-dentist-explains-the-benefits-of-polymer-dentures): Along with many other advances in modern dentistry, the design and materials used in dentures has improved significantly. The beauty... - [Get The Facts On Dental Bonding And Veneers, Respectively](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/get-the-facts-on-dental-bonding-and-veneers-respectively): If you are looking at treatments to repair dental damage and achieve aesthetic results, then you have probably heard about... - [Saint Paul Dentist Talks About Red Flags When It Comes To Oral Cancers](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-talks-about-red-flags-when-it-comes-to-oral-cancers): One of the reasons that semi-annual dental appointments are so important is so that our Saint Paul dentists can complete... - [St Paul Dentist Describes Oral Hygiene Aids](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/minneapolis_dentist_describes_oral_hygiene_aids): Shopping for oral hygiene aids can be overwhelming. Supermarket shelves are filled with various types of products, and it can... - [Saint Paul Dentist Talks About What Happens To Oral Health After Tooth Loss](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-talks-about-what-happens-to-oral-health-after-tooth-loss): Losing a tooth is an upsetting and disruptive event for many patients. The good news is that it doesn’t have... - [Saint Paul TMJ Dentists Encourage You To Seek Prompt Treatment](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-tmj-dentists-encourage-you-to-seek-prompt-treatment): If you are noticing subtle changes to your smile, like a shifting bite, for example, you may be developing problems... - [Dr. Mark Malterud Discusses the Importance of Routine Office Visits](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/dr_mark_malterud_discusses_the_importance_of_routine_office_visits): As a practitioner of General Dentistry, my patients often ask me about the proper frequency of routine office visits for... - [St. Paul Dentistry Discusses the Benefits of Invisalign](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dentistry-discusses-benefits-of-invisalign): You no longer need to endure the inconvenience and discomfort of traditional metal braces to have beautifully aligned teeth. More... - [Saint Paul Dentist Compares And Contrasts Bonding And Veneers](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-compares-and-contrasts-bonding-and-veneers): Veneers and dental implants can be used to achieve many of the same aesthetic and functional dental goals: Correct damage... - [St. Paul Dentistry Discusses the Advantages of Dental Implants](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st_paul_dentistry_discusses_the_advantages_of_dental_implants): Colleen, a new patient to my practice, came in with a problem that was causing her a lot of distress.... - [St. Paul Highland Park Dentist Explains Causes and Treatment for TMJ](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st_paul_highland_park_dentist_explains_causes_and_treatment_for_tmj): One of my regular patients, Julia, came to our office for a routine examination. During the exam Julia indicated that... - [Tooth Loss Treatments Explained By Our Saint Paul Dental Implant Dentists](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/tooth-loss-treatments-explained-by-our-saint-paul-dental-implant-dentists): Whenever possible we prefer to use preventive treatments but if you are already missing a tooth. If, however, you are... - [Learn More From Our Saint Paul Dentist About Using Composite Resin In Dentistry](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/learn-more-from-our-saint-paul-dentist-about-using-composite-resin-in-dentistry): Few materials in the world of dentistry are as versatile and utilitarian as composite resin. This workhorse material is used... - [3 Tips From Our Saint Paul Dentists To Help You Brush More Effectively](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/3-tips-from-our-saint-paul-dentists-to-help-you-brush-more-effectively): Brushing your teeth twice a day is the cornerstone of any good at-home oral hygiene routine. The more effectively you... - [Saint Paul Emergency Dentist Helps Patients Recover With State-of-the-Art Care](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-emergency-dentist-helps-patients-recover-with-state-of-the-art-care): Dental trauma can be difficult to deal with, both emotionally and logistically. That is why our Saint Paul emergency dentists... - [Saint Paul Root Canal Dentist Talks About The Treatment Process](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-root-canal-dentist-talks-about-the-treatment-process): Restorative dental treatments, like root canal therapies, can be intimidating for many of our dental patients. We totally understand this,... - [Saint Paul Dentist Tailors Dental Restorations To Suit You](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-tailors-dental-restorations-to-suit-you): Our Saint Paul mimetic dentists don’t deliver any one-size-fit-all solutions; in our practice, everything we do is personalized to suit... - [Saint Paul Cosmetic Dentist Discusses Important Priorities in Aesthetic Dentistry](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-cosmetic-dentist-discusses-important-priorities-in-aesthetic-dentistry): Our Saint Paul cosmetic dentists are committed to providing patient-centered, comprehensive care that improves our patients lives. With that in... - [Saint Paul Dentist Talks About The Differences Between Old And Modern Crowns](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-talks-about-the-differences-between-old-and-modern-crowns): Restorative dentistry technologies have come a long way in recent years. That is why our Saint Paul dentists are so... - [Don’t Skip Professional Cleanings And Assessments: Our Saint Paul Dentists Explain Why](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/don-t-skip-professional-cleanings-and-assessments-our-saint-paul-dentists-explain-why): An important part of effectively caring for your smile is completing your professional cleanings and assessments on time. Our Saint... - [Our Saint Paul Dentist Shares Tips For Upgrading Your Daily Oral Hygiene Routine](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/our-saint-paul-dentist-shares-tips-for-upgrading-your-daily-oral-hygiene-routine): No one knows your smile better than you do. Because you care for your smile every single day, you have... - [Saint Paul Dentist Reviews Ways To Maintain A Healthy Smile Even When You’re Sick](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-reviews-ways-to-maintain-a-healthy-smile-even-when-you-re-sick): When you’re not feeling your best you may notice that it seems difficult to care for your smile. Not only... - [Tooth Replacement Treatments Reviewed By Our Saint Paul Dental Implant Dentists](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/tooth-replacement-treatments-reviewed-by-our-saint-paul-dental-implant-dentists): It used to be that people dealing with tooth loss didn’t have that many treatment options. Now, however, our Saint... - [Our Saint Paul Dentists Can Help You Get The Most Out Of Your Brushing Routine](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/our-saint-paul-dentists-can-help-you-get-the-most-out-of-your-brushing-routine): Brushing your teeth may seem failproof, but the truth is there are a few simple things that you can do... - [Our Saint Paul TMJ Dentist Provides Comprehensive Care](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/our-saint-paul-tmj-dentist-provides-comprehensive-care): At the Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry we truly believe that every one of our patients should be able... - [From Our Saint Paul Dentist: Take Care Of Your Smile Even When You’re Dealing With Colds Or Flu](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/from-our-saint-paul-dentist-take-care-of-your-smile-even-when-you-re-dealing-with-colds-or-flu): When you are under the weather, your immune system is depleted and you feel exhausted. This is when, for many... - [Need a Smile Makeover? The St. Paul Dentist Explains How Veneers Can Help](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/need-a-smile-makeover-the-st-paul-dentist-explains-how-veneers-can-help): Have you ever wished that you could have a flawless smile – one that lights up a room as soon... - [Not Feeling Well? Don’t Neglect Your Oral Health – Helpful Tips from the Mill Valley Family Dentist](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/not-feeling-well-don-t-neglect-your-oral-health-helpful-tips-from-the-mill-valley-family-dentist): If you are sick with a cold or flu, your oral health probably isn’t your priority. Depending on how sick... - [The St. Paul Cosmetic Dentist Discusses Professional Teeth Whitening](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/the-st-paul-cosmetic-dentist-discusses-professional-teeth-whitening): Has your smile lost the brilliance it once had? Have you tried over-the-counter tooth whitening products and seen disappointing results,... - [Is Your Smile Ready for Holiday Family Photos? St. Paul Teeth Whitening Dentist Explains Your Smile Makeover Options](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/is-your-smile-ready-for-holiday-family-photos-st-paul-teeth-whitening-dentist-explains-your-smile-ma): Can you believe that it’s only a couple of months until Thanksgiving, and the winter holidays aren’t far behind? If... - [The Facts You Need to Know about Orthodontics Shared by the St. Paul Invisalign Dentist](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/the-facts-you-need-to-know-about-orthodontics-shared-by-the-st-paul-invisalign-dentist): Are you an adult who’s considering minor orthodontics, you’re most likely focused on the esthetic result. That’s understandable! It can... - [The St. Paul General Dentist Explains Risk Factors for Oral Cancer](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/the-st-paul-general-dentist-explains-risk-factors-for-oral-cancer): While oral cancer makes up only a small portion of all annual cancer cases, it is still a serious problem.... - [State-of-the-Art Treatment at St. Paul Dental Implants Office Increases Success Rates](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/state-of-the-art-treatment-at-st-paul-dental-implants-office-increases-success-rates): Dental implants are the most sophisticated replacement option for missing teeth, but have historically proven to be time-consuming to place.... - [St. Paul Dentist Offers State-of-the-Art TruDenta Treatment](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dentist-offers-state-of-the-art-trudenta-treatment): The care that we provide in our St. Paul dental office goes far beyond simply treating cavities and cleaning teeth.... - [Highland Park Dentist Helps People Manage Chronic TMJ Issues And Headaches](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-dentist-helps-people-manage-chronic-tmj-issues-and-headaches): Our St. Paul dental practice focuses on comprehensive care, which means that we provide treatments far beyond filling cavities and... - [St. Paul General Dentist Helps Patients Relax with NuCalm Sedation Dentistry](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-general-dentist-helps-patients-relax-with-nucalm-sedation-dentistry): In traditional sedation dentistry, many dentists choose controlled substances to help their nervous patients relax. Thanks to the NuCalm system,... - [St. Paul Dentist Puts Patients At Ease Using NuCalm](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dentist-puts-patients-at-ease-using-nucalm): We understand that, for many people, undergoing dental treatment can be a scary and anxiety-producing proposition. Our dental team firmly... - [Why Replacing Teeth at the St. Paul Dental Implants Office is Important](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/why-replacing-teeth-at-the-st-paul-dental-implants-office-is-important): Dental implants are one of the best methods available for replacing missing teeth. In the past, you had limited choices... - [Highland Park St. Paul Teeth Whitening Dentist Talks About KöR](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-st-paul-teeth-whitening-dentist-talks-about-kor): KöR – An Innovative Whitening Option An innovative new treatment for teeth whitening is KöR Whitening and Deep Bleaching Treatment.... - [St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist Explains Invisalign Benefits](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-invisalign-dentist-explains-benefits-of-invisalign-clear-orthodontics): There are several options available today for straightening your teeth. The St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist recommends Invisalign because it... - [St. Paul TMJ Dentist Explains TMJ Causes and Treatment](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-tmj-dentist-explains-tmj-causes-and-treatment): TMJ is the term that many people use to refer to Tempro-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome. This is a common condition... - [Reasons for Bad Breath Discussed by the St. Paul Family Dentist](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/reasons-for-bad-breath-discussed-by-the-st-paul-family-dentist): Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, is a very common complaint that is thought to affect millions of people, including as... - [St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist Explains Advantages of Six Month Smiles](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-invisible-braces-dentist-explains-advantages-of-six-month-smiles): How does Six Months Smiles differ from Invisalign? Both Invisalign and Six Month Smiles provide you with a discreet option... - [​St. Paul Family Dentist Reviews Benefits of Removing Amalgam Fillings](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-reviews-benefits-of-removing-amalgam-fillings): In the past if you had a cavity, your only option was a metal filling. But today you have a... - [St. Paul Family Dentist Shares Important Facts About Oral Cancer](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-shares-important-facts-about-oral-cancer): Although oral cancer makes up only a small portion of annual cancer cases, it is still a serious problem. Since... - [Saint Paul Invisalign Dentist Reviews the Cosmetic Strategies Behind Invisalign and Six Month Smiles](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-invisalign-dentist-reviews-the-cosmetic-strategies-behind-invisalign-and-six-month-smiles): Let’s begin with Invisalign. Invisalign is a treatment system that moves the patient’s natural teeth using a series of clear... - [Saint Paul, MN Dentures Dentist Explains Options for Replacing Missing Teeth](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-mn-dentures-dentist-explains-options-for-replacing-missing-teeth): Let’s take a look at a few of these options: Dental Implants Dental implants provide a truly remarkable tooth replacement... - [Saint Paul, MN General Dentist Discusses the Dental Exams](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-mn-general-dentist-discusses-the-dental-exams): The dental exam and dental cleaning are two important elements of great oral health care. Most people understand this, and... - [Saint Paul, MN TMJ Dentistry Office Describes Symptoms](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-mn-tmj-dentistry-office-describes-symptoms): Patients of our Saint Paul, MN TMJ Dentistry office who suffer with TMJ can experience a wide range of problems.... - [St. Paul Dental Implants Dentist Explains Tooth Replacement Options](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dental-implants-dentist-explains-tooth-replacement-options): Depending on your specific situation, we can choose one of several options. Let’s take a look at a few: Dental... - [St. Paul Dental Implants Dentist Offers Tips for Dental Implant Care](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dental-implants-dentist-offers-tips-for-dental-implant-care): How Does a Dental Implant Work? A dental implant consists of a very small titanium post capped off with a... - [St. Paul Dental Implants Dentist Talks About Tooth Replacement](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dental-implants-dentist-talks-about-tooth-replacement): The Benefits of Dental Implants One of the problems associated with tooth loss is the subsequent loss of bone in... - [St. Paul Dental Implants Office Answers Frequently Asked Questions](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dental-implants-office-answers-frequently-asked-questions): What is the purpose of a dental implant? The basic purpose of a dental implant is to replace the root... - [St. Paul Dental Implants Office Provides Tips for Care and Maintenance of Dental Implants](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dental-implants-office-provides-tips-for-care-and-maintenance-of-dental-implants): Replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant can have a positive and profound effect on your life. But it’s... - [St. Paul Dentist Describes Dental Implant Exam](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dentist-describes-dental-implant-exam): St. Paul Dentist Describes Dental Implant Exam All dental procedures must start with a thorough examination by your dental professional.... - [St. Paul Family Dentist Discusses Removal of Mercury Fillings](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-discusses-removal-of-mercury-fillings): Amalgam fillings containing mercury have been in use by dental professionals for decades. These fillings were widely used because amalgam... - [St. Paul Family Dentist Discusses Ways to Cope with Dental Anxiety](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-discusses-ways-to-cope-with-dental-anxiety): At our St. Paul Family Dentist Office, your comfort and well being are of the greatest importance to our team.... - [St. Paul Family Dentist Discusses Ways to Deal with Dental Anxiety](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-discusses-ways-to-deal-with-dental-anxiety): At our St. Paul Family Dentist office, your comfort and well being are of the greatest importance to our team.... - [St. Paul Family Dentist Explains Connection Between Dry Mouth and Periodontal Disease](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-explains-connection-between-dry-mouth-and-periodontal-disease): Prescription Medications and Dry Mouth There are record numbers of people taking prescription medications for conditions such as high blood... - [St. Paul Family Dentist Explains Process for Removing Old Mercury Fillings](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-explains-process-for-removing-old-mercury-fillings): Fillings using mercury were very popular because, at the time, they were the most durable type of filling available. They... - [St. Paul Family Dentist Explains the Oral Systemic Connection](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-explains-the-oral-systemic-connection): We are all becoming much more aware of the importance of taking care of all aspects of our health. Patients... - [St. Paul Family Dentist Offers Tips for Overcoming Dental Anxiety](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-offers-tips-for-overcoming-dental-anxiety): At our St. Paul Family Dentist office, your comfort and well being are our top priority. Our team takes your... - [St. Paul General Dentist Discusses the Use and Benefits of Dental Crowns](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-general-dentist-discusses-the-use-and-benefits-of-dental-crowns): What is a dental crown? Dental crowns (“caps”) are one of dentistry’s most versatile types of restorations at our St.... - [St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist Answers Questions about Six Month Smiles](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-invisible-braces-dentist-answers-questions-about-six-month-smiles): Treatments for orthodontic problems have come a long way in recent years, providing a number of short-term solutions that can... - [St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist Answers Six Month Smiles Questions](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-invisible-braces-dentist-answers-six-month-smiles-questions): Six Month Smiles clear braces are a great way to achieve your goal of a perfectly-aligned smile in a relatively... - [St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist Describes Six Month Smiles Treatment](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-invisible-braces-dentist-describes-six-month-smiles-treatment): How is the Six Months Smiles treatment different from Invisalign? Both provide discreet options for straightening teeth. The main difference... - [St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist Discusses Reasons to Consider Invisalign](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-invisible-braces-dentist-discusses-reasons-to-consider-invisalign): What kind of alignment issues can Invisaligncorrect? Invisalign aligners are used to correct the same alignment and bite issues as... - [St. Paul TMJ Dentist Explains Treatment for TMJ](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-tmj-dentist-explains-treatment-for-tmj): TMJ is the term that many people use to refer to Tempro-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome. This can include any number... - [St. Paul TMJ Dentist Reviews the Importance of a Balanced Dental Bite](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-tmj-dentist-reviews-the-importance-of-a-balanced-dental-bite): You’ve probably heard your dentist talk about your “bite” When having fillings, crowns, and bridges placed. Your dental bite (occlusion)... - [St. Paul, MN Dentist Discusses Dental Concerns and Aging](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-mn-dentist-discusses-dental-concerns-and-aging): For instance, it’s quite common to notice a loss of healthy dental enamel. This can cause sensitivity and discoloration of... - [St. Paul, MN Dentistry Office Provides Tips for Handling Dental Emergencies](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-mn-dentistry-office-provides-tips-for-handling-dental-emergencies): Tooth knocked out If a tooth has been knocked out of the mouth, it is essential to contact your dentist... - [St. Paul, MN Dentures Dentist Answers Common Denture Questions](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-mn-dentures-dentist-answers-common-denture-questions): Will my new dentures last a long time? Dentures are custom-made to conform to your mouth comfortably and perfectly. Right... - [St. Paul, MN Dentures Dentist Describes Placement of Dentures](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-mn-dentures-dentist-describes-placement-of-dentures): Dentures are a removable replacement for missing teeth. They are carefully crafted by the St. Paul, MN Dentures Dentist to... - [St. Paul, MN Dentures Dentist Discusses Dentures](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-mn-dentures-dentist-discusses-dentures-1): Dentures are a removable dental appliance that acts as a replacement for missing teeth. Our St. Paul, MN General Dentist... - [St. Paul, MN General Dentist Describes Symptoms of Periodontal Disease](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-mn-general-dentist-describes-symptoms-of-periodontal-disease): How does periodontal disease develop? Throughout the day, bacteria build up on the teeth and around the gum line, developing... - [St. Paul, MN Invisalign Dentist Discusses Clear Braces Advantages](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-mn-invisalign-dentist-discusses-clear-braces-advantages): The process begins when we take an impression of your mouth in order to create a clear thermoplastic aligner. This... - [Tips for Handling Dental Emergencies Provided by St. Paul Family Dentist](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/tips-for-handling-dental-emergencies-provided-by-st-paul-family-dentist): Tooth Knocked Out If a tooth has been knocked out of the mouth, it is essential to contact us immediately... - [5 Reasons You Need Healthy Teeth Shared by St. Paul General Dentist](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/5-reasons-you-need-healthy-teeth-shared-by-st-paul-general-dentist): Your good dental health is important and something that should not be taken for granted. Your teeth serve many purposes... - [Benefits of Six Month Smiles Provided by St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/benefits-of-six-month-smiles-provided-by-st-paul-invisible-braces-dentist): The Six Month Smiles system is a great way achieve your goal of a perfectly aligned smile in a relatively... - [Effects of Aging Related to Dental Health Discussed by Highland Park St. Paul General Dentist](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/effects-of-aging-related-to-dental-health-discussed-by-highland-park-st-paul-general-dentist): As we age, it’s quite common to lose a certain amount of healthy dental enamel. This can lead to sensitivity... - [Highland Park St. Paul Dental Implants Dentist Discusses Versatility of Implants](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-st-paul-dental-implants-dentist-discusses-versatility-of-implants): As traumatic as losing a tooth can be, the positive news is that advances in dentistry now leave you with... - [Highland Park St. Paul General Dentist Discusses Aging Concerns and Dental Health](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-st-paul-general-dentist-discusses-aging-concerns-and-dental-health): As we age, it’s quite common to lose a certain amount of healthy dental enamel. This can lead to sensitivity... - [Highland Park St. Paul General Dentist Discusses Benefits of Laser Dentistry](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-st-paul-general-dentist-discusses-benefits-of-laser-dentistry): Laser dentistry helps more patients than ever get the treatment they need comfortably and quickly. The revolutionary Lightwalker Laser is... - [Highland Park St. Paul General Dentist Explains Reasons for Mercury-Free Dentistry](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-st-paul-general-dentist-explains-reasons-for-mercury-free-dentistry): Although the FDA has deemed amalgam fillings to be safe for use in dental fillings, there is still quite a... - [Highland Park St. Paul Teeth Whitening Dentist Talks About KöR Whitening](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-st-paul-teeth-whitening-dentist-talks-about-kor-whitening): KöR Teeth Whitening Treatment – A New and Popular Option A fairly new entry into the teeth whitening arena is... - [Highland Park, MN General Dentist Describes the Connection between Oral and General Health](https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-mn-general-dentist-describes-the-connection-between-oral-and-general-health): In recent years many studies have been conducted. It has been found that there is a strong correlation between problems... --- ## Adwords Services --- ## Campaigns --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages - Published: 2020-09-03 - Modified: 2020-09-03 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/resources Dr. Mark's Minimally Invasive Dentistry Column Planning for failure: creating dental crumple zones Continuing education holds the key to minimally invasive biomimetic dental successes Minimally invasive biomimetic endodontics: the future is here Magnification: you can’t effectively practice minimally invasive biomimetic dentistry without it Stairway to health: an MIBD approach Crowns after root canals: are they a necessity? Crowns after root canals: are they a necessity? 2015 AGD Radio News Service (RNS) Interview Listen Now 2014 AGD Radio News Service (RNS) Interview Listen Now FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions) A Link to 'Find A Biomimetic Dentist' that provides an excellent resource for frequently asked questions. --- - Published: 2019-01-17 - Modified: 2019-01-17 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/sitemap Sitemap Pages Email Import Home Resources schedule About Patient Reviews Blog Contact Schedule Online Appointment Sitemap Style Guide Services Healthy Start Collagen Laser For Snoring Clear Aligners Sterilization NuCalm® Laser Dentistry Cone Beam 3D Imaging Cavity Detection Biofilm Management Perio Protect® Bale Doneen Method™ Sleep Apnea Root Canals Pediatric Dentistry Dental Crowns and Bridges Dentures & Partials Exams and Cleanings Ozone Dentistry Oral Systemic Connection Accidents and Trauma Mercury Free Dentistry Headaches and TMJ Disorder Dental Implants Cosmetic Dentistry Teeth Whitening Blog Spring Cleaning Tips from Our Saint Paul Dentist Discovering the Vital Connection: Dental Implants and Optimal Bone Health Our Saint Paul Dentist Talks About Spring Cleaning Your Smile Try Incorporating These Tips From Our Saint Paul Dentist Into Your Afternoon Routine Resolve to Have a Healthier Smile in 2022! The St. Paul General Dentist Shares Explains How Highland Park Dental Care Dentist Explains Benefits of Invisalign™ Our Saint Paul Dentists Help Patients Maintain Oral Health During The Holidays St. Paul TruDenta Dentist Answers Your Questions About This State-of-the-Art Treatment Our Saint Paul Dentist Explains The Underlying Causes Of Sensitive Teeth and Gums Saint Paul Dentist Helps You Know What To Do When Assessing And Picking Dental Tools Saint Paul Dentist Talks About The Ways In Which Stress Can Impact Dental Health Refine Your Daily Routine With Support From Our Saint Paul Dentists Optimize Your Brushing Routine With These Tips From Our Saint Paul Dentists The St. Paul General Dentist Explains How to Achieve Oral Health through Prevention Saint... --- - Published: 2019-01-11 - Modified: 2019-01-11 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/style-guide 1 Color Palette #546ba0 . blue / primary #67bf71 . green / secondary #26324c . black / body copy #adb0b5 . dark-gray / body copy #cdd0d5 . gray / body copy #ebeef2 . off-white / body copy 2 Typography Fonts Aa Open Sans regular regular italic semi bold bold Helpers Italic Font Uppercase Font Regular Case Font Bold Font Weight Normal Font Weight Font Size t1 Font Size t2 Font Size t3 Font Size t4 Font Size t5 Font Size t6 Font Size t7 Font Size t8 Font Size t9 Font Size t10 Headings h1 - Heading h1 - Sub Heading h2 - Heading h2 - Sub Heading h3 - Heading h3 - Sub Heading h4 - Heading h4 - Sub Heading h5 - Heading h5 - Sub Heading h6 - Heading h6. Sub Heading Heading Sizer h1 Heading Sizer h2 Heading Sizer h3 Heading Sizer h4 Heading Sizer h5 Heading Sizer h6 Font Icons View All Font Icons Body Copy Heading This is a lead paragraph donec venenatis vulputate lorem. Nam at tortor in tellus interdum sagittis. Donec elit libero, sodales nec, volutpat a, suscipit non, turpis. Praesent egestas neque eu enim. Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus orci luctus et ultrices posuere cubilia Curae; Fusce id purus. Normal Paragraph enean tellus metus, bibendum sed, posuere ac, mattis non, nunc. Paragraph link. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Praesent egestas tristique nibh. In hac habitasse platea dictumst. Ut a nisl id ante tempus... --- - Published: 2019-01-11 - Modified: 2025-06-05 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/about Our Dentists Dr. Mark Malterud DDS Dr. Mark Malterud DDS has been serving the Saint Paul, MN area as a general dentist for over 30 years. Dr. Malterud has a holistic dental philosophy; he believes in respecting the integrity of his patients' natural teeth as he improves their smiles. He is known around the Twin Cities for being a caring and thorough comprehensive dentist, capable of handling anything from general dentistry needs to intricate cosmetic work. Dr. Malterud is passionate about conservative, minimally invasive dentistry that preserves healthy teeth. Learn More Dr. Mark Malterud DDS Dr. Malterud received his Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Minnesota at Duluth. He then obtained his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. He is committed to continuing his postgraduate education, and participates in over 250 hours of continuing dental education each year. He also instructs other dentists, nationally and internationally, on minimally invasive aesthetic restorations. He is member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and Minnesota Dental Association. Dr. Malterud is a Board Member of the Academy of General Dentistry and a founding member of the Academy of Biomimetic Dentistry. He is also a member of the World Congress of Minimal Invasive Dentistry and he consults with various dental manufacturers on their products to continually improve the quality of dental products available to his patients. Dr. Malterud and his staff train extensively in order to provide their patients with the highest quality care... --- - Published: 2019-01-11 - Modified: 2022-07-12 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/patient-reviews Patient Reviews 21 Reviews Review for: The Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry Date Reviewed: May 28, 2021 Dr. Mark does a wonderful job and he is kind and thorough! Google Review Jane Austin McGrath 4 out of 5 rating Review for: The Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry Date Reviewed: May 24, 2021 I’ve seen Dr. Rachel twice, once for a filling and once for a cleaning. She takes time to explain, listen, and do the dental work. The old filling (from a previous dentist) was giving me problems with the bite and food getting stuck and it eventually cracked. The new filling is much better. Also, the minimally invasive approach seems great. Maybe it’s just smart marketing (who wants maximally invasive dentistry? ) but it seems like it’s a good thing to not be overly aggressive in treatment. Google Review Abe Kazemzadeh 5 out of 5 rating Review for: The Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry Date Reviewed: May 22, 2021 This is a first rate operation- from the moment you step into the reception area to the moment you leave. I feel very heard, very well cared for, and very understood. There are no wrong questions. Dr. Rachel is fantastic... leaves no stone unturned. Google Review Mattie Lufkin 5 out of 5 rating Review for: The Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry Date Reviewed: May 17, 2021 it’s one of the best well-oiled machines I’ve seen in a long time. but yet not a machine because there’s... --- - Published: 2019-01-11 - Modified: 2019-01-18 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog The Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry Blog Providing our patients and the Saint Paul community with educational information to achieve their best smile. Jan 10, 2024 Spring Cleaning Tips from Our Saint Paul Dentist Laser dentistry employs highly focused beams of light energy to perform various dental procedures with unprecedented precision and minimal discomfort. Jan 9, 2024 Discovering the Vital Connection: Dental Implants and Optimal Bone Health Dental implants are not just cosmetic solutions; they play a vital role in preserving bone health. These implants integrate with the bone, a process known as osseointegration Mar 29, 2022 Our Saint Paul Dentist Talks About Spring Cleaning Your Smile Mar 22, 2022 Try Incorporating These Tips From Our Saint Paul Dentist Into Your Afternoon Routine Jan 24, 2022 Resolve to Have a Healthier Smile in 2022! The St. Paul General Dentist Shares Explains How We all have good intentions when we make our New Year's resolutions, but carrying through with them is another matter entirely... Dec 20, 2021 Highland Park Dental Care Dentist Explains Benefits of Invisalign™ A beautiful smile is one of the first things people notice about you. If you have crooked or uneven teeth, you know that it is embarrassing and wor... Dec 1, 2021 Our Saint Paul Dentists Help Patients Maintain Oral Health During The Holidays Keep reading to learn more from our Saint Paul dentists about protecting your smile through the holidays. Nov 30, 2021 St. Paul TruDenta Dentist Answers Your Questions About This State-of-the-Art Treatment... --- - Published: 2019-01-11 - Modified: 2020-10-02 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/contact Contact Our Team Our Address Drs. Mark and Rachel Malterud 770 Mt Curve Blvd Saint Paul, MN 55116 Have questions or comments? We want to hear from you! To contact us you can either reach us by phone at (651) 699-2822 or you can submit an inquiry below. First Name * Last Name * Email Address * Phone Number * Preferred Contact Method Phone Email Message * Submit Thank you for contacting us at The Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry. We will contact you within a few hours on business days and look forward to treating you with the best dental care available. If for some reason you don't hear from us in a timely fashion, please call us at: (651) 699-2822. --- - Published: 2019-01-11 - Modified: 2022-08-22 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/schedule-online-appointment Free Consultation or Schedule an Appointment Online! Submit your information below to get started! First Name * Last Name * Email Address * Phone Number * Preferred Contact Method Phone Email Message * Submit Thank you for contacting us at The Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry. We will contact you within a few hours on business days and look forward to treating you with the best dental care available. If for some reason you don't hear from us in a timely fashion, please call us at: (651) 699-2822. --- - Published: 2018-05-05 - Modified: 2022-07-12 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/ Saint Paul Dentist 55116 | Dr. Mark Malterud | Dr. Rachel Malterud | Biological Dentist MN Skip to main content Home About Dental Services Accidents and Trauma Exams and Cleanings Teeth Whitening Mercury Free Dentistry Headaches and TMJ Disorder Ozone Dentistry Dental Implants Dentures & Partials Dental Crowns and Bridges Pediatric Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry Clear Aligners Sleep Apnea Root Canals Collagen Laser For Snoring Healthy Start Oral Systemic Connection Bale Doneen Method™ Perio Protect® Biofilm Management Advanced Technology Cavity Detection Cone Beam 3D Imaging Laser Dentistry NuCalm® Sterilization Patient Reviews Blog Resources Contact Facebook Yelp Contact Us for a Smile Consultation (651) 699-2822 Contact Us Minimally invasive, comprehensive care Schedule your complimentary Smile Consultation today Contact Us Call (651) 699-2822 Minimally invasive, comprehensive care Schedule your complimentary Smile Consultation today Contact Us Call (651) 699-2822 Worried About Amalgam Mercury Fillings In Your Mouth? Mercury Free Dentistry Time To Refresh Your Smile or Achieve a Total Dental Transformation? Cosmetic Dentistry Don’t Let Unexpected Dental Damage Destroy Your Oral Health Accidents/Trauma Protect Your Oral Health With Ozone Dental Therapy Ozone Dentistry Looking for High-quality, Convenient Dental Care in St. Paul? Oral Systemic Connection You Don’t Have to Live with Tooth Loss Anymore Dental Implants TMJ Can Be a Real Pain in the Neck Headaches / TMJ Are Snoring & Sleep Apnea Keeping You Up at Night? Sleep Apnea About our practice Welcome to the Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry, your home for biological dental care! Dr. Mark Malterud and Dr. Rachel... --- --- ## Posts --- ## Services --- ## Blog - Published: 2024-01-10 - Modified: 2024-01-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/spring-cleaning-tips-from-our-saint-paul-dentist In the heart of Saint Paul, Minnesota, you'll find The Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry, where Drs. Mark and Rachel Malterud are revolutionizing the dental industry with the power of laser dentistry. If you're looking for a less invasive, more comfortable, and highly effective dental experience, you're in the right place. In this article, we'll delve into the world of laser dentistry, exploring its remarkable advantages, the procedures it can enhance, and why it's a game-changer for your dental care. The Evolution of Dentistry: Laser Dentistry Imagine a dental experience where the sound of drilling and the sight of sharp instruments are replaced with a gentle, precise beam of light. That's the magic of laser dentistry, a cutting-edge technology that has transformed the way dental procedures are performed. At The Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry, we embrace this revolutionary approach to ensure our patients receive the best care possible. Understanding Laser Dentistry Laser dentistry employs highly focused beams of light energy to perform various dental procedures with unprecedented precision and minimal discomfort. The key benefits of laser dentistry include: 1. Minimal Pain and Discomfort Traditional dental procedures often involve the use of drills and needles, causing anxiety and discomfort for many patients. Laser dentistry eliminates these concerns, as it is virtually painless and minimizes the need for anesthesia. 2. Faster Healing Laser dentistry promotes faster tissue regeneration and healing, reducing recovery time for patients. This means you can return to your daily activities sooner after your dental treatment.... --- - Published: 2024-01-09 - Modified: 2024-01-09 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/discovering-the-vital-connection-dental-implants-and-optimal-bone-health Welcome to The Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry, where we're committed to not only restoring your smile but also maintaining your overall oral health. A critical aspect of this is understanding the relationship between dental implants and bone health. In this post, we'll explore why this matters and how Drs. Mark and Rachel Malterud ensures the best care for your teeth and jawbone. Understanding Bone Loss in the Jaw Bone loss in the jaw is a common yet serious issue, often exacerbated by tooth loss. When teeth are missing, the jawbone begins to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. This can lead to changes in facial structure and further dental complications. At The Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of addressing these issues promptly. The Role of Dental Implants in Preserving Bone Health Dental implants are not just cosmetic solutions; they play a vital role in preserving bone health. These implants integrate with the bone, a process known as osseointegration, providing the necessary stimulation to maintain jawbone density. Drs. Mark and Rachel Malterud specializes in this technique, ensuring that implants benefit both your smile and bone health. Benefits of Dental Implants for Bone Health Choosing dental implants offers several benefits: Prevents Bone Loss: Implants act like natural tooth roots, providing stimulation to the jawbone. Maintains Facial Structure: By preserving bone, implants help maintain your natural face shape. Long-Term Oral Health: Implants contribute to overall oral health, preventing the shifting of teeth and other issues. Preparing... --- - Published: 2022-03-29 - Modified: 2022-04-08 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/our-saint-paul-dentist-talks-about-spring-cleaning-your-smile It’s that time of year; when we clean and refresh our spaces for the warmer months to come. Well, our Saint Paul dentists encourage you to apply the same principles to your smile! That’s right, it’s time to spring-clean your smile! Professional Cleanings Professional dental cleanings allow our dental team to clear away accumulated plaque and tartar, in order to give your smile a clean slate. This type of cleaning is much more effective and powerful than at-home measures. The average dental patients should have a professional cleaning every six months—if it’s time for you to get back on-track in terms of professional dental care, please give our team a call! An At-Home Refresh Every spring you should take the time to re-set your at-home oral hygiene tools and products. Make sure that your toothbrush isn’t more than a few months old. Evaluate your oral hygiene products—like floss and toothpastes—in order to ensure that they are meeting your needs and that they are not expired. Generally speaking, patients rarely replace their oral hygiene tools frequently enough. So, set a reminder to do so as part of your spring cleaning routine! Goals Now is a great time to make plans and intentions for your smile moving forward. If there is a particular aesthetic or health goal you would like to achieve, our dental team is here to help you succeed. Whether you want to lighten and brighten your smile, treat gum disease, or minimize bruxism, we’re here for you! Take this... --- - Published: 2022-03-22 - Modified: 2022-04-08 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/try-incorporating-these-tips-from-our-saint-paul-dentist-into-your-afternoon-routine We all take special care to clean our smile morning and night, but what if there was more that you could do to improve your oral health during the day? Keep reading to learn more from our Saint Paul dentists about refreshing your smile throughout the day... After lunch... Take just a few seconds to clean and refresh your smile after you’ve finished your midday meal. Use floss to gently remove any dental debris or plaque that may be stuck between your teeth. And swish some water around your smile to clean your mouth, freshen your breath, and jump-start saliva production. You may be surprised at just how much better your smile feels after instituting this simple routine. Every hour... Be mindful about consuming water and staying hydrated. Proper hydration is absolutely essential to maintaining a healthy smile. Patients who suffer from chronic dry mouth experienced increased instances of halitosis, periodontal disease, and dental caries. As you move into your afternoon routine, build in a short break to rehydrate. Create a schedule... Try to pre-plan when you will drink beverages that can be problematic for your smile—these are drinks with a lot of sugar or acid. If you expose your teeth to these beverages continuously throughout the day, then your teeth don’t really have a chance to re-mineralize. That is why we recommend that patients consume these types of beverages in specific, time-limited sittings. Try incorporating some of these strategies into your regular routine, and enjoy a fresher and cleaner... --- - Published: 2022-01-24 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/resolve-to-have-a-healthier-smile-in-2020-the-st-paul-general-dentist-shares-explains-how We all have good intentions when we make our New Year's resolutions, but carrying through with them is another matter entirely. But in some cases, as in your oral health, turning over a new leaf has enormous benefits, and it’s these resolutions you want to try hard to keep. Your St. Paul general dentist wants you to enjoy the healthiest possible smile, so we are sharing a few resolutions you can make that benefit your oral health. Schedule a Dental Appointment: If you haven’t seen a dentist in a while, don’t feel like you’re alone! The American Dental Association (ADA) says that about a third of people in the US don’t keep routine appointments. So even if your teeth look and feel okay, set a reminder for January 2 and make your appointment. Most dentists send out reminder cards a week prior or call a day before your appointment; check that yours does. Commit to Flossing: Brushing your teeth twice a day isn't enough to keep plaque from building up on your teeth, or to completely remove bits of food from your mo uth. To take the best care of your teeth, you need to floss too. If you're not in the habit of flossing, the new year is a great time to start. If your flossing skills have gotten rusty, ask your hygienist to show you the proper steps so you can be sure you are getting the most out of your efforts. Reduce Your Sugar Intake: Everyone knows... --- - Published: 2021-12-20 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland_park_dental_care_dentist_explains_benefits_of_invisalign A beautiful smile is one of the first things people notice about you. If you have crooked or uneven teeth, you know that it is embarrassing and worse yet, it keeps the real you from shining through when you’re too self-conscious to even smile. But you don't have to go through the process of wearing traditional braces to get back that beautiful smile. Let's look at some of the advantages of using the Invisalign™ system. What are the advantages of using Invisalign™ aligners? Easy Treatment Plan: We start with X-rays that are used to create a 3-d digital image of your mouth. Based on this image, a set of custom-made aligners will be produced for you to take home and change about every two weeks. We’ll schedule checkups every six weeks or so at our Minneapolis Dental Office so we can monitor your progress. Convenient: Wear your aligners throughout the day, removing them for meals. Unlike traditional braces you won’t be restricted as to the foods you can eat while wearing Invisalign™. Easily removable: Continue to brush and floss your teeth as you normally would. Your aligners can simply be brushed and rinsed in lukewarm water. Adaptable to your active lifestyle: Since Invisalign™ aligners are nearly invisible; most people won’t notice you’re wearing them. If you’re involved in contact sports, you don’t have to worry about the discomfort of metal braces and wires that can poke and irritate your mouth. The comfortable BPA-free plastic won’t cause any irritation. Invisalign™ aligners... --- - Published: 2021-12-01 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/our-saint-paul-dentists-help-patients-maintain-oral-health-during-the-holidays As we move into the holiday season, we look forward to a period of celebration and togetherness. We cannot forget, however, that this time of celebration can also be a bit of a time of indulgence! If you find that you are inundated with sweets, cookies, and sugary drinks during the holidays, then this article is for you. Keep reading to learn more from our Saint Paul dentists about protecting your smile through the holidays. Stay Alert For Problem Ingredients If you have found that you consume more candy, cookies, or alcohol during the holidays, you certainly aren’t alone. With a proliferation of parties, and home baked goodies, it can become much more difficult to stay away from sugary and acidic treats. The problem is that increasing our consumption of sugars and acids can lead to an increase in cavity and gum disease development. Oral bacteria use sugars and refined carbohydrates for fuel. When we are snacking or sipping on indulgent treats, we are inadvertently creating an oral environment in which oral bacteria can thrive. Rinse Regularly In order to refresh your smile (and breath) throughout the day, try rinsing your mouth with water after eating or drinking. This is a safe, gentle, and effective way to clear away food particles and plaque, while promoting healthy saliva production. Plus, it’s easy to slip away from the office holiday party to discreetly rinse your smile—no oral hygiene tools required! Make A Plan To Indulge If it seems impossible to completely eliminate... --- - Published: 2021-11-30 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-trudenta-dentist-answers-your-questions-about-this-state-of-the-art-treatment Our St. Paul dental team is proud to offer TruDenta treatment to our dental patients battling facial and neck pain. This innovative treatment is exceedingly patient-friendly and effective. Today our dental team is answering just some of the questions we commonly field regarding TruDenta. We hope that this information helps you better understand how this treatment can work for you! Q: What kinds of therapies does TruDenta use? A: TruDenta treats chronic pain by combining various effective treatments—when used together these therapies greater than the sum of their parts. Here are some of the treatments that are commonly used in TruDenta... · Laser therapy · Muscle stimulation · Manual muscle manipulation · Ultrasound technology · Bite modification treatments Q: I’ve heard that people like TruDenta because it is more “natural” than other treatments. What does this mean? A: When people say that TruDenta is a more natural pain-management they are usually talking about the fact that TruDenta treatment is completely drug-free. This protocol does not require you to take any medications in the short or the long-term. In the same vein, TruDenta is also completely non-invasive and needle-free. Q: How fast does TruDenta work? A: The answer to this question will depend on the type and extent of pain that you are experiencing. That being said, many people do report improvement in pain and discomfort in the first days and weeks after beginning treatment. One the best things about TruDenta is that, because it addresses the root cause of facial... --- - Published: 2021-11-17 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/our-saint-paul-dentist-explains-the-underlying-causes-of-sensitive-teeth-and-gums Is tooth pain or sensitivity keeping you from getting the most out of your daily routine? If you find that you are regularly suffering from dental discomfort, it may be time to talk to your dental team about the treatment options that are available to you. Keep reading to learn more from our Saint Paul dentists about sensitive smiles... Why Does Dental Sensitivity Develop? You may find that your teeth become sensitive for a number of different reasons. Some people experience sensitivity only temporarily, after cleanings or whitening sessions, for example, while other battle chronic discomfort. Generally speaking, dental sensitivity occurs when the nerves inside of your teeth are affected by irritants or oral bacteria. This can happen because... The dental enamel on your teeth has started to thin due to acid exposure or chronic dental grinding Your teeth have developed cracks or chips You have an existing infection in one or more of your teeth Your gum tissue is pulling away from the tooth roots What Kinds Of Treatments Are Available? In order to address dental sensitivity, we can calm inflamed nerves, promote the health of natural protective barriers (like dental enamel and gum tissue), reinforce natural teeth with composite resin or porcelain, or do some combination of the three. If your tooth pain is related to existing infection or damage it is crucial that we use restorative dental care to make your teeth healthy and whole again. If we ignore this type of damage the discomfort that you... --- - Published: 2021-11-16 - Modified: 2022-04-08 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-helps-you-know-what-to-do-when-assessing-and-picking-dental-tools Not all dental tools and formulations are created equal. It is worth it to the time to compare oral hygiene tools, so that you end up with products that truly fit your needs. Here are three things to look out for from our Saint Paul mimetic dentists... Size As you choose dental tools and products, you want to be mindful that they are appropriately sized for your mouth, in particular. Even the highest quality toothbrush won’t be effective if it cannot reach the gum tissue behind your back molars. This is especially true for pediatric patients—specially sized dental tools vastly improve the efficacy of a kid’s dental cleaning routine. Abrasiveness To a certain extent, abrasion is part of what helps us clear away plaque and tartar. As well-honed oral hygiene routine combines some manual cleaning with gentle products and tools. We don’t want to apply too much pressure as we clean our smiles, and risk developing enamel erosion or gum tissue damage. This is why the ADA recommends soft-bristled toothbrushes for most dental patients. Talk to your dentist if you’re not sure what type of bristle is appropriate for your smile and your teeth. Preference Finally, there are a number of dental hygiene factors that simply come down to your personal preference. The flavor of the toothpaste and floss that you use, for example, is a highly personal variable. Generally speaking, any flavor of product can be effective, so you want to use something that you genuinely like. With a... --- - Published: 2021-11-09 - Modified: 2022-04-08 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-talks-about-the-ways-in-which-stress-can-impact-dental-health In many ways, our overall wellbeing and health can affect our smiles. Today, our Saint Paul dentists are going to be talking about the ways in which stress can impact dental health and aesthetics. If you are dealing with more stress than usual, you may notice increased... Dental Grinding Bruxism is a condition that is characterized by jaw clenching and tooth grinding. Many people experience bruxism episodically in response to stress and anxiety. You may be able to notice yourself grinding your teeth during the day, or you may experience bruxism symptoms at night while you are asleep. Talk to your dentist about steps you can take to protect your enamel from bruxism-related damage, as well as steps you can take to relieve tension and relax your temporomandibular joints. Dry Mouth Anxiety attacks can make your mouth feel arid and dry. Not only is the uncomfortable, it is also unhealthy, as it gives oral bacteria an ideal environment in which to grow and multiply. Your saliva is your body’s natural way of re-mineralizing dental enamel and neutralizing bacteria. So, take the time to drink plenty of water and rinse your mouth thoroughly in order to combat chronic dry mouth. Oral Hygiene Problems When we feel stressed and overwhelmed, we can start to fall behind on our regular routines and habits. We may start rushing through our oral hygiene routines, and taking shortcuts. Consequently, many patients report increased rates of cavities, gum disease, and halitosis during times of stress. The good... --- - Published: 2021-10-27 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/refine-your-daily-routine-with-support-from-our-saint-paul-dentists Maintaining a top-notch daily dental routine will help you in a number of ways. You will be less likely to develop serious oral health problems, like cavities and gum disease. You’ll also be able to enjoy a bright, attractive smile as you age. And, importantly, you will be less likely to deal with unwanted, sometimes embarrassing, bad breath. With all that in mind, our Saint Paul dentists have put together this short article about things that you can do to optimize your daily dental routine. We hope that you find this information helpful, and that it empowers you to take control of your oral health. Better Brushing In order to get the most out of your brushing routine, you want to follow a few simple guidelines: Brush your teeth for two minutes every morning and night Apply gentle pressure, so as not to inadvertently cause damage to your smile Use small buffing motions on the flat surfaces of your teeth Water, Water, Water You probably already know that water is the best choice when you’re reaching for a drink. Many of our favorite beverages are laden with sugar and acid; water keeps you hydrated without any yucky byproducts or ingredients. Additionally, rinsing your mouth with water will help to clear away bacteria and dental debris, while simultaneously jump-starting saliva production. Clean Safely When you do get food particles or sticky plaque stuck between your teeth, our dental team encourages you to use floss to safely and gently clean your smile.... --- - Published: 2021-09-29 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/optimize-your-brushing-routine-with-these-tips-from-our-saint-paul-dentists Has your daily oral hygiene routine stalled out at the first, most basic level of care? Let’s make sure it doesn’t stay that way! Our Saint Paul biological dentists have put together this short article explaining how you can more effectively care for your smile at home. These are changes you can make right away, so your smile will stay as healthy as possible. Use new tools As times goes on your toothbrush breaks down, and it becomes less effective. Old, frayed bristles are not very effective at cleaning plaque and dental debris from your smile. That is why the ADA recommends that you replace your toothbrush every three to four months. You also want to swap your old brush for a new one if you’ve been ill, as old bristles can harbor bacteria. Be patient Many of us rush through our oral hygiene routines—but this is a big mistake! Every time that you clean your smile you want to be brushing for about two minutes. It really does take that long to thoroughly and effectively clean your smile. Set a timer for two minutes the next time you brush; you’ll likely find that you haven’t been devoting enough time to brushing. Use a light hand You want a clean and healthy smile, but cleaning your teeth isn’t the same as cleaning the floors—when it comes to your smile, vigorous scrubbing can actually be harmful. Now that you are brushing your teeth for a full two minutes, make sure that... --- - Published: 2021-09-24 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/the-st-paul-general-dentist-explains-how-to-achieve-oral-health-through-prevention Left untreated, dental infections and periodontal disease will not only affect the appearance of your smile but can destroy your oral health. Neglecting routine at-home oral and professional care places you at greater risk for these conditions, and when you do try to “catch up” you may face complications that require complex dental work to restore the health and function of your smile. Make Dental Care a Priority   St. Paul general dentist Dr. Mark Malterud teaches his patients that prevention is the key to maintaining a beautiful, healthy smile. By making your dental care a priority you can save you the future cost and embarrassment of dental disease.   One of our goals is to educate you about the best ways to avoid cavities and gum disease. Even the most consistent routine of brushing and flossing alone is not enough to maintain a healthy smile. Practicing good at-home oral hygiene is vital, but it must be paired with professional dental cleanings to be really effective.   As we eat, drink, and speak a sticky bacterial film called plaque coats tooth enamel and oral tissue. Flossing and brushing help to remove some plaque build-up but cannot eliminate it completely. The plaque that is not removed hardens into a substance called tartar. Tartar continues to build up on teeth, causing dental decay, gum disease, and eventually tooth loss unless it is removed through regular professional cleanings.   Be Proactive with Oral Health Care   You can take control of your dental... --- - Published: 2021-09-21 - Modified: 2022-04-08 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-helps-you-determine-whether-your-smile-is-affected-by-medications The state of your smile is intricately connected with your overall health and wellbeing. Essentially, anything you put in your body has the potential for impacting oral health, and that includes medication. That is why today our Saint Paul dentists are going to be talking about dentistry-related side effects of commonly used medications. If you see your own experience reflected in this article, then it may be time to reach out to your dental team for an assessment. Many different types of medications can create dry mouth as a side effect. Most of us don’t consider dry mouth to be a particularly “serious” side effect, but the truth is that if it is left unaddressed, dry mouth can increase your likelihood of developing gum disease, dental cavities, and halitosis. This is because bacteria thrive in dry oral environments. You actually need saliva in your mouth in order to neutralize bacteria and strengthen dental enamel. So, if you start experiencing dry mouth, please take the time to reach out to your dental team to find solutions. Acid reflux is another side effect that can really take a toll on your smile. When you experience acid reflux, acids from your digestive tract move up through your esophagus into your mouth. Just as dietary acids weaken your enamel, stomach acids also wear down healthy teeth. Your oral tissues can also be negatively affected, and you’ll find it harder to maintain fresh breath. Finally, there are specific medications that can actually alter the way... --- - Published: 2021-08-23 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-general-dentist-explains-the-benefits-of-polymer-dentures Along with many other advances in modern dentistry, the design and materials used in dentures has improved significantly. The beauty of dentures today is that they are designed to be comfortable and functional. They are very similar in appearance to natural teeth and can improve your smile and facial appearance. What are dentures? A denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and can even enhance your smile. Very detailed impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create dentures that are custom-fit to your mouth. At St. Paul Highland Park Dentist dentures are crafted using a softer, flexible polymer rather than traditional rigid metal. Your dentures will be gently custom-fit to your mouth, ensuring that they fit comfortably and securely, enabling you to speak and eat with ease. What are dentures made of? Patients have many options of materials to choose from that can affect the aesthetic results as well as the comfort level afforded the wearer. Today’s polymer dentures offered by Highland Park, MN Dental Office are more flexible so they are naturally more comfortable as well as being more natural-looking than plastic dentures. For example, plastic dentures are very rigid resulting in soreness of the gums and cheek tissue. In addition to being rigid and uncomfortable, plastic dentures are also less durable. Polymer dentures are somewhat more expensive, but most people do not mind paying the extra cost to gain the advantages... --- - Published: 2021-08-14 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/get-the-facts-on-dental-bonding-and-veneers-respectively If you are looking at treatments to repair dental damage and achieve aesthetic results, then you have probably heard about dental bonding and veneers. These are both great treatment options that deliver full results in a short period of time. In today’s article our Saint Paul cosmetic dentists are going to be giving you more information about these treatments so that you can get a better idea of which one is right for you. Uses Veneers and dental bonding can treat many of the same aesthetic or functional dental complaints. Both of these options can be used to resurface unsightly enamel, close gaps between teeth, and make misaligned smiles appear straighter and more seamless. With veneers and dental bonding, you can choose to correct a single tooth, or you could transform your entire smile. These are perhaps the most versatile treatments in cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Materials The fundamental difference between these treatments is that they use different materials to achieve results. Cosmetic veneers are made from porcelain. Porcelain mimics the appearance of natural enamel, so once your veneers are in place they will blend in seamlessly with your existing smile. Dental bonding utilizes composite resin to deliver results. Resin starts out as a soft and malleable substance. Once we cure it, it hardens and bonds to your tooth structure. Process The material differences between these two treatments affects the treatment process. Veneers are individually crafted before they are applied. So, you will have an initial appointment where we prep... --- - Published: 2021-08-03 - Modified: 2022-04-08 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-talks-about-red-flags-when-it-comes-to-oral-cancers One of the reasons that semi-annual dental appointments are so important is so that our Saint Paul dentists can complete an oral cancer screening on all of our patients. The sooner we are able to identify and treat oral cancers, the better the patient’s long-term prognosis. With that in mind, keep reading to learn more about some of the signs and symptoms of cancerous tissues... Swelling Oral Tissue Stay alert for oral tissues that look redder or puffier than usual. Reach out to your dentist if this swelling doesn’t resolve within a few days; it could be indicative of a harmful infection or cancerous tissue. Sores If you develop slow-to-heal sores on the inside or outside of your mouth, then it is time to reach out to your dental team for an assessment. While cold sores and canker sores are quite common, sores that do not heal quickly can be indicative of a larger problem. White or Red Patches Some cancerous and pre-cancerous tissues present as red or white patches on the insides of your cheeks, around your lips, or on/under your tongue. Numbness If you lose sensation in any part of your mouth, it is time to schedule a check-up with your dental provider. Not all oral health problems cause pain or sensitivity; on the contrary, some forms of oral cancer actually cause numbness. Trouble Swallowing Cancerous and pre-cancerous lesions can make it difficult for patients to swallow fully or comfortably. Talk to your dentist if you notice trouble... --- - Published: 2021-08-02 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/minneapolis_dentist_describes_oral_hygiene_aids Shopping for oral hygiene aids can be overwhelming. Supermarket shelves are filled with various types of products, and it can be challenging to determine what’s right for you. Today I’m going to provide a quick summary of the different oral hygiene aids available along with their appropriate uses. Dental Flosses Dental floss is the most common interdental (below the gum) cleaner and comes in a variety of types and flavors. Floss helps remove food particles and plaque from between teeth. Floss should normally be used twice daily after brushing. Interdental Brushes Many hygienists & periodontists recommend interdental brushes in addition to dental floss. These tiny brushes are gentle on the gums and very effective in cleaning the contours of teeth in between the gums. Mouth Rinses There are two basic types of mouth rinse available: Cosmetic rinses, used to temporarily suppress bad breath, and therapeutic rinses which may require a prescription from our St. Paul Highland Park Office. Therapeutic rinses are regulated by the FDA and contain active ingredients that can help reduce bad breath, plaque, and cavities. Mouth rinses should generally be used after brushing. Oral Irrigators Oral irrigators (like Waterpiks) are designed to clean debris from below the gum line. Water is continuously sprayed from tiny jets, helping to remove harmful bacteria and food particles. Rubber Tip Stimulators The rubber tip stimulator is an excellent tool for removing plaque from around the gum line and also for stimulating blood flow to the gums. Toothbrushes Electric toothbrushes are generally... --- - Published: 2021-07-27 - Modified: 2022-04-08 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-talks-about-what-happens-to-oral-health-after-tooth-loss Losing a tooth is an upsetting and disruptive event for many patients. The good news is that it doesn't have to stay that way forever—there are treatment solutions available to help you get back on track and regain oral health. In today’s article our Saint Paul dental implant dentists are talking about the ways that tooth loss can affect your smile. Let’s get started! Dental Alignment You may start to notice that teeth that were previously straight and even are now crooked or slanted. After tooth loss, you may also develop small gaps between your teeth. All of your individual teeth help to keep their adjacent teeth in place. When a tooth is lost, the resultant hole becomes a void into which teeth shift. Jawbone Remember that every tooth is comprised of the visible tooth crown as well as the tooth root, which extends into the patient’s jawbone. When a tooth is lost, it creates a blank space under your gumline. Unfortunately, this can become a prime area of vulnerability—your jawbone density may degrade, and infected dental material can progress and spread. Additional Tooth Loss As your smile becomes less and less stable, it only becomes more likely that you will experience additional tooth loss down the road. In order to minimize your risk of additional damage, it is crucial that you seek restorative treatment to bolster your jawbone and gum tissue health. You also want to ensure that you have healthy dental alignment, and that you’re not putting unnecessary... --- - Published: 2021-07-21 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-tmj-dentists-encourage-you-to-seek-prompt-treatment If you are noticing subtle changes to your smile, like a shifting bite, for example, you may be developing problems with your temporomandibular joints. TMJ dysfunction is surprisingly common among patients of all ages. Our Saint Paul TMJ dentists encourage you to reach out for treatment as soon as you notice symptoms of TMJ disorder. What is TMJ disorder? Your temporomandibular joints are the joints on either side of your skull that hold your lower jaw in place. When these joints are irritated, poorly aligned, or damaged you are experiencing TMJ dysfunction. Some patients experience TMJ problems sporadically: during times of stress, for example. However, other people deal with TMJ problems chronically. Chronic TMJ issues are often linked to poor bite alignment and bruxism. How do I know if I have it? TMJ disorder can present in a number of different ways. You may first notice that your jaw joints feel sore or tender. You may find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth—this is called bruxism. As TMJ dysfunction becomes more severe, your jaw may begin to “lock,” and you may have trouble opening your mouth all of the way. Additionally, if you start experiencing regular headaches, especially upon waking, talk to your dentist about a TMJ screening. Why does it need to be treated? TMJ problems can become more severe, and harder to treat, over time. If left unchecked, TMJ disorder can lead to limited jaw mobility, premature dental wear and tear, and cracked and chipped enamel. Timely treatment... --- - Published: 2021-07-19 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/dr_mark_malterud_discusses_the_importance_of_routine_office_visits As a practitioner of General Dentistry, my patients often ask me about the proper frequency of routine office visits for themselves and their family. Today I’d like to share some important information about the need for regular office visits that will ensure the good oral health of you and your family. The standard recommended interval for your family’s dental check-ups is every six months. This timing will ensure that you receive regular, thorough examinations so we are able to efficiently address problems or potential problems in a timely manner. Scheduling regular, ongoing appointments for exams and cleanings at our Minneapolis Dental Office will ensure that you establish an appropriate routine of at-home oral health care. Most importantly it will also give you the peace of mind of knowing that you and your family are receiving individualized care and that your oral health care is being monitored regularly by a family dentist who is familiar with your history. Introducing your young children to regular dental checkups helps get them started on a routine of good oral health care but also allows them to become accustomed to the dentist and the office setting. Many adults who did not have the advantage of regular early childhood office visits developed an aversion to dentists and dental treatments, creating greater potential for oral health care problems in the long-term. The importance of regular office visits is most evident when this routine is not followed and subsequent problems develop, becoming painful, debilitating and costly to correct.... --- - Published: 2021-07-12 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dentistry-discusses-benefits-of-invisalign You no longer need to endure the inconvenience and discomfort of traditional metal braces to have beautifully aligned teeth. More and more people are finding a convenient, discomfort-free and nearly invisible solution with Invisalign™ aligners. What are the advantages of using Invisalign™ aligners? Easy Treatment Plan: X-rays are taken to create a 3-d digital image. A series of custom-made aligners are then created specifically for you. You’ll change to a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks in the privacy of your home. Every time you change aligners you will be able to see the difference! You will visit our Minneapolis Dentist Office every six weeks so we can monitor your progress. Convenient: Wear your aligners throughout the day, removing them to eat. You are not restricted as to the foods you eat and you don’t have the worry of food getting stuck in wires and brackets. Since Invisalign™ aligners are nearly invisible; most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them. Easily removable: Continue to brush and floss your teeth as you normally would. Your aligners can simply be brushed and rinsed in lukewarm water. Adaptable to your active lifestyle: If you’re involved in contact sports, you don’t have to worry about the discomfort of metal braces and wires that can poke and irritate your mouth. The comfortable BPA-free plastic won’t cause any irritation. In fact, Invisalign™ aligners are easily removed, enabling you to wear a protective mouth guard if necessary. How long does the entire process take? While... --- - Published: 2021-07-07 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-compares-and-contrasts-bonding-and-veneers Veneers and dental implants can be used to achieve many of the same aesthetic and functional dental goals: Correct damage Close gaps Resurface unsightly enamel Lengthen short teeth Improve bite function So, what sets these treatments apart? At the end of the day it is the materials used to repair or resurface your teeth. Aesthetic veneers are made from exceptionally thin porcelain. A veneer is only as thick as a contact lens, but once it is in place it completely transforms the appearance of the tooth. Dental bonding uses composite resin to achieve results. Composite resin begins as a soft, shapeable consistency. Our team applies the resin to a patient’s tooth, and then we cure it with a special light so that it hardens and bonds to the natural tooth. These material differences affect their respective treatment processes. Veneers take two or three appointments to complete; first the teeth are prepped, then restorations are made to fit the patient’s teeth, and finally we attach them to the natural tooth structure. On the other hand, the dental bonding process takes just one appointment to complete. Our dentists shade, shape, and cure composite resin in one appointment. A few other things to keep in mind: Dental bonding is generally less expensive than porcelain veneer treatment On the whole, veneers last longer than bonding If veneers become damaged they must be replaced If dental bonding becomes damage they can be repaired with additional resin Veneers and bonding cannot be lightened with whitening treatments,... --- - Published: 2021-07-05 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st_paul_dentistry_discusses_the_advantages_of_dental_implants Colleen, a new patient to my practice, came in with a problem that was causing her a lot of distress. Years earlier, Colleen lost one of her front teeth. She always meant to “have it fixed”, and finally came to the Minneapolis Dental Office seeking a solution. She confided in me that the reason she avoided treatment was because her parents wore dentures and she remembered their complaints about soreness, irritation, difficulty chewing and a host of other problems. I discussed with Colleen how allowing a missing tooth to continue without a replacement is not only unattractive, but can slowly change the structure of your mouth. Your jaw will change, affecting your bite and your ability to chew and speak properly. Colleen also talked about her loss of self-confidence because of her appearance. A Dental Implant is essentially a replacement tooth. It is a small titanium post implanted into the jaw bone and held beneath your gum-line. It replaces the root of your missing tooth. The St. Paul Highland Park Dentist will later attach a crown or other appliance to your dental implant to create your new, fully functioning tooth. Advantages of Dental Implants include: Aesthetically Pleasing: Dental Implants look like your natural teeth Functionality: They feel and function like real teeth. You can eat and chew without pain or irritation. Enjoy Your Favorite Foods: In contrast to the bulky design of dentures, implants can actually allow for the improved enjoyment of textures and flavors of your favorite foods. Maintain... --- - Published: 2021-06-10 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st_paul_highland_park_dentist_explains_causes_and_treatment_for_tmj One of my regular patients, Julia, came to our office for a routine examination. During the exam Julia indicated that she had begun to experience pain and stiffness in her jaw and that she seemed to have more headaches than usual. We talked for a bit about other seemingly unrelated symptoms she was experiencing including neck pain and slight ringing in the ears. I told Julia that all of those symptoms strongly indicated a diagnosis of TMJ. Julia was familiar with the term ‘TMJ’, but didn’t really understand what it is or the effect it could have on her life and general health. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, the joint on either side of your jaw, just in front of the ear, that allows the jaw to move up and down and side to side for biting, chewing, talking, yawning, and making facial expressions. TMJ is also the term frequently used for temporomandibular joint disorders (also referred to as TMJD). People experience the symptoms of TMJ for any number of reasons and it varies from person to person. It can be caused by stress, teeth grinding and clenching, injury, arthritis, and a number of medical conditions. There currently is no known way of preventing this type of pain from occurring, but St. Paul Dentistry offers many effective pain management options. We have been successfully treating TMJ longer than anyone in the St. Paul area. You don’t have to live with TMJ headaches and pain, and our non-surgical options provide fast,... --- - Published: 2021-05-26 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/tooth-loss-treatments-explained-by-our-saint-paul-dental-implant-dentists Whenever possible we prefer to use preventive treatments but if you are already missing a tooth. If, however, you are already dealing with an incomplete smile, there’s no need to panic; our Saint Paul dental implant dentists offer the treatments you need to rebuild your oral health. Visible restorations—traditional treatments, like dentures and bridges are designed to sit on top of the gum tissue (dentures are molded to fit the patient’s gum tissue, and bridges are held in place with small brackets that attach to adjacent teeth. Dentures and bridges only replace the visible portion of the tooth. Both of these treatments are great for patients who need to replace many teeth quickly, and, as we will see later, to use in conjunction with implant technology. Invisible tooth root—the defining feature of the dental implant is the titanium post that extends into the gum tissue, and replaces the tooth root. Through a process called osseointegration, the titanium root will actually bond with the existing bone tissue over time. Implant root uses—our team can replace one tooth at a time using individual dental implants. A single implant is made up of a titanium root, a connector piece called an abutment, and then the visible restoration that is permanently attached as a final step. Another way to use implant roots is to place a few of them along the jawbone, and use these roots to hold a larger restoration, like a denture, in place. This is a great option for people who... --- - Published: 2021-05-18 - Modified: 2022-04-08 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/learn-more-from-our-saint-paul-dentist-about-using-composite-resin-in-dentistry Few materials in the world of dentistry are as versatile and utilitarian as composite resin. This workhorse material is used in both restorative and aesthetic treatments and it delivers results right away. Keep reading to learn more... What is composite resin? When we talk about “composite resin” in dentistry, we are essentially talking about a mixture of ceramic and plastic compounds that is used to replace and repair dental enamel. When our team first applies the resin to your natural tooth, the resin is malleable. Once we smooth and shape it, we’ll cure it so that it hardens and bonds to the tooth. Why is composite resin used in dentistry? Your dental team may recommend using composite resin because: It looks like natural enamel It can be custom-shaded to match the color of your smile Because it’s moldable, it can fit into right hard-to-reach spaces It is durable It doesn’t require you to make lifestyle changes post-treatment (you can care for your smile normally) Unlike amalgam, resin does not expand and contract in response to temperature changes What’s the treatment process like? Another huge advantage of using composite resin is that the treatment process is fast, simple, and comfortable for the patient. Basically, all you have to do is relax while our team restores and perfects your smile. We’ll place the custom-shaded resin on the appropriate tooth or teeth, shape it, and then cure it so it bonds to your smile. All of this is completed in just one appointment.... --- - Published: 2021-05-05 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/3-tips-from-our-saint-paul-dentists-to-help-you-brush-more-effectively Brushing your teeth twice a day is the cornerstone of any good at-home oral hygiene routine. The more effectively you are able to clean your smile, the fewer oral health issues you will deal with down the road. Keep reading to get more information from our Saint Paul dentists on how to optimize your brushing! Get a new brush The first step in any situation is to make sure that you have the right tools for the job. When it comes to your toothbrush, you want to keep a few specific factors in mind. First of all, the bristle strength should not be too firm. Most people will actually do well with a soft-bristled brush. If you aren’t sure what type of bristle is right for you, talk to your dental team; they can help! The next think to perfect is the technique that you are using. You want to apply gentle pressure to your teeth and oral tissues, so as not to inadvertently cause dental damage. Move your toothbrush in small circular motions to buff away plaque and dental debris. Set a timer to keep track of time The American Dental Association recommends that patients brush their smiles continuously for at least two minutes. We have found that many people don’t brush long enough; so, in order to get used to brushing for two minutes, try setting a timer or listening to a song. Don’t forget your oral tissues Bad breath is often caused by bacterial build up on... --- - Published: 2021-05-04 - Modified: 2022-04-08 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-emergency-dentist-helps-patients-recover-with-state-of-the-art-care Dental trauma can be difficult to deal with, both emotionally and logistically. That is why our Saint Paul emergency dentists make it a point to deliver straightforward, effective emergency care to patients of all ages. Keep reading to learn more about what’s possible in the world of restorative care... Composite Resin Treatments Composite resin is a totally metal and amalgam free restorative material that is used to repair and rebuild tooth structure. Made of a combination of plastic compounds and ceramic, resin begins as a soft moldable putty, and, once it cures, it hardens into a permanent bond with your underlying tooth structure. You may benefit from composite resin treatment if you want to correct: Damaged or cracked enamel Disproportionately short teeth Uneven dental alignment Irregularly colored or textured dental enamel Porcelain Restorations Both restorative dental crowns and cosmetic veneers are made from porcelain. You probably already know that porcelain is a preferred material in the dental world because it so closely mimics the attributes of natural dental enamel. The porcelain that we use today is stronger than dental porcelain in the past. What does this mean for you? Our team can make porcelain veneers thinner than ever before without sacrificing durability and strength. Another key benefit of porcelain restorations is that they can usually be crafted and placed in just two or three appointments. Perfecting Gum Tissue If you gum tissue becomes damaged due to a laceration or infection, or if you’re smile has simply developed with uneven or... --- - Published: 2021-04-27 - Modified: 2022-04-08 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-root-canal-dentist-talks-about-the-treatment-process Restorative dental treatments, like root canal therapies, can be intimidating for many of our dental patients. We totally understand this, which is why our Saint Paul dentists are so committed to providing our patients with the information and support that they need to reclaim oral health. Today’s short article is all about the mechanics of root canal therapy. We hope that this information helps you feel prepared and empowered in case of a dental emergency. Why Root Canals Are Necessary The goal of root canal therapy is to remove the inner core of a diseased or damaged tooth. This part of the tooth is the most sensitive and vulnerable because it includes dental pulp, nerves, and roots. By getting rid of these components of your tooth, you can save dentin and enamel that would otherwise be lost. What To Look Out For Timely treatment is important when it comes to root canal therapy. The types of infections and damage that we treat can spread and get worse if you wait too long. That is why our team strongly encourages our patients to stay alert for signs of infection or dental damage, including: tooth sensitivity/pain jaw pain visible gray or brown spots on enamel bad breath chronic unpleasant taste in the mouth damaged gum tissue The Treatment Process If you do notice any of the aforementioned oral health problems, our team will begin by completing a thorough oral health assessment. X-ray images, in particular, help us see how far and how... --- - Published: 2021-04-13 - Modified: 2022-04-08 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-tailors-dental-restorations-to-suit-you Our Saint Paul mimetic dentists don’t deliver any one-size-fit-all solutions; in our practice, everything we do is personalized to suit our patients’ unique needs. That means that we customize restorations and replacement teeth in... Shape Natural teeth come in all kinds of shapes—from blocky, to pointy, to rounded with soft edges. All of these dental shapes can be healthy and attractive; it is our job to make sure that your new restoration is shaped appropriately. This is how we are able to achieve a uniform, harmonious appearance for your smile. Size Another key consideration is whether your restoration “fits in” with your smile as a whole. Obviously, we want your dental crown to look just like your natural teeth, and thus fit in aesthetically. However, we also need to make sure that the literal fit of your crown is healthy and aligned. If you have a restoration that is too big or bulky, it will negatively affect your bite, the long-term health of your natural enamel, and your temporomandibular joints. Shade A final aesthetic priority for our dental team is to color-match your restoration with your natural enamel. When you smile, we want your crown to be indistinguishable from your real teeth. If you are unhappy with your current natural tooth shade, talk to your dentist about whitening options. Because restorations cannot be whitened with topical treatments, we need to whiten first, then place the crown. If you are ready to improve your smile and reclaim oral health, our Saint... --- - Published: 2021-03-20 - Modified: 2022-04-08 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-cosmetic-dentist-discusses-important-priorities-in-aesthetic-dentistry Our Saint Paul cosmetic dentists are committed to providing patient-centered, comprehensive care that improves our patients lives. With that in mind, we have put together this information for you, our patient, about aesthetic priorities and possibilities. Keep reading to learn more about the things we focus on when building a treatment plan... Restore Dental Health The most important priority when planning aesthetic treatment is to make sure that our dental team addresses any existing oral health issues right away. We don’t believe in taking half-steps to make your smile look better, without ensuring that it has a healthy foundation. Oral health problems like damaged enamel, periodontal disease, and tooth infections can be treated with solutions that are both health-boosting and attractive. Proportions Matter A balanced and harmonious smile looks great and functions healthily. Generally speaking, our goal is to help our patients achieve smiles that are fairly symmetrical. We also refine teeth that are disproportionately large or small, so that your smile looks cohesive and seamless. Youthful Refresh Most of us associate white, bright enamel with youth and health. As time goes on, our teeth tend to accumulate stains, and our dental enamel thins. Whitening your teeth either with topical whitening gels or treatments like dental bonding, gives can immediately take years off of the appearance of your smile. As you can see, building a treatment plan is whole-patient endeavor. Our Saint Paul dentists are here to answer any questions you may have, and to provide you with any guidance... --- - Published: 2021-03-16 - Modified: 2022-04-08 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-talks-about-the-differences-between-old-and-modern-crowns Restorative dentistry technologies have come a long way in recent years. That is why our Saint Paul dentists are so proud to offer our patients the highest quality dental crowns available today. The crowns we deliver are custom fit and designed to meet our individual patients’ needs. Keep reading to learn more about what sets these restorations apart. Materials For a long time, amalgam fillings were the gold-standard in restorative dentistry. Well no longer! We now offer dental restorations that are totally metal and mercury free. Using composite resin and/or porcelain, our team can transform the appearance and the functionality of your smile without the disadvantages associated with mercury. Possibilities in Porcelain Porcelain itself has advanced in recent years, becoming stronger and more durable. The primary benefit to the patient is that our team does not have to remove as much natural dental material as we once did in order to make a porcelain restoration “fit. ” There is less bulk for which we need to make room. Fine-tuning Modern restorations are completely customized to meet the patient’s unique specifications. The shape, size, color, and luminosity of your restoration will blend seamlessly with your existing smile. Whether you’re dealing with aging restorations or you’re ready to treat existing damage, our Saint Paul dentists are here to help you reclaim a happy and healthy smile. Please don’t hesitate to call our team, or use the Contact Us page on our site to submit an inquiry, and we’ll get right back to... --- - Published: 2021-02-25 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/don-t-skip-professional-cleanings-and-assessments-our-saint-paul-dentists-explain-why An important part of effectively caring for your smile is completing your professional cleanings and assessments on time. Our Saint Paul dentists know that you are doing a great job caring for your smile at home, but there are some things that our dentists are able to do in-office, that you can’t replicate at home. During your appointment, our dentists do a number of important things: Screen your teeth for signs of infection or decay Complete an oral cancer screening—we may additionally take biopsies of cancerous or pre-cancerous tissues Review your at-home oral hygiene routine, and help you tweak any parts of it that are not working well for you Help you craft a long-term dental plan that includes preventive treatment, as well as any cosmetic or restorative issues you would like to address. When you fall behind with your semi-annual cleanings you may notice a number of changes to your smile: Dull or discolored teeth: our teeth tend to accumulate stains from environmental factors: foods, drinks, and tobacco products (especially). Increased instances of cavities and infections: no matter how well you care for your smile at home, at least some plaque will build up and calcify over time. Professional cleanings are the best way to get rid of this problematic bacteria. Chronic bad breath: oral bacteria emit unpleasant odors as they grow and multiply. So, as plaque takes over your smile, you will likely find it hard to achieve and maintain fresh breath. Gum disease: bacteria can infiltrate your... --- - Published: 2021-02-20 - Modified: 2022-04-08 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/our-saint-paul-dentist-shares-tips-for-upgrading-your-daily-oral-hygiene-routine No one knows your smile better than you do. Because you care for your smile every single day, you have an opportunity to optimize your oral hygiene routine for the health and appearance of your smile. Keep reading to learn some more about simple steps you can take to improve your dental routine... Buy The Right Brush The heart of an effective at-home dental routine is brushing both morning and night. However, it is important to choose the right type of brush with which to floss. Toothbrush bristles are made in various levels of firmness –from extra soft to extra firm. For most people, a soft-bristle brush is effective, while still being gentle. Plan Ahead The mineralization and hardness of your dental enamel varies throughout the day. For example, your teeth become temporarily de-mineralized and weaker after exposure to acidic foods or beverages. Our team recommends that patients to brush for 20 to 30 minutes after acid exposure. Refresh Regularly Dental plaque, which contains bacteria, is continually building up in your mouth. Boost your oral health by being just as constant about clearing away bacteria. Try to get into the routine of rinsing your mouth with water as the day goes on. It’s especially beneficial to rinse after you meals and snacks. Upgrade Your Flossing Routine Take the time to choose a type of floss that works for you, specifically. The primary thing to consider is whether the floss you are using is thick enough to dislodge plaque while being... --- - Published: 2021-02-04 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-dentist-reviews-ways-to-maintain-a-healthy-smile-even-when-you-re-sick When you’re not feeling your best you may notice that it seems difficult to care for your smile. Not only do our energy levels drop when we are under the weather, but many illnesses—like colds and the flu—can lead to excess mucus or acid on your teeth and oral tissues. Optimizing your oral health can actually help you get better faster and feel better in the interim. Here are some simple tips from our Saint Paul dentists that can help you keep your smile as healthy as possible, no matter what: Focus on water Water is good for your whole-body health as well as your dental health. Every time that you choose water over another sugary or acidic drink, you are promoting saliva production, and clearing away bacteria. When you cannot drink water, it can be helpful to simply rinse with H2O. Switch out oral hygiene tools If you’ve been using your toothbrush for more than three or four months it is probably not doing a good enough job because its bristles are worn down and frayed. Switch to a fresh toothbrush in order to make sure that you are getting the most you can from your oral hygiene routine. Pay attention to ingredients in medicines and cough drops When you are using cough drops, mouth rinses, and other soothing products, take care to choose formulations that are sugar-free. Oral bacteria use sugars and acids to grow and multiply. You don’t want to coat your teeth and gums in sugar... --- - Published: 2020-05-19 - Modified: 2020-09-24 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/tooth-replacement-treatments-reviewed-by-our-saint-paul-dental-implant-dentists It used to be that people dealing with tooth loss didn’t have that many treatment options. Now, however, our Saint Paul dentists are able to use a range of restorative treatments, sometimes in combination, in order to deliver results. Keep reading to learn a little about traditional treatments, as well as state-of-the-art dental implant technology! Bridges: bridges sit on top of the gum tissue, and are held in place with small brackets that are attached to adjacent teeth. They can be made to replace any number of missing teeth. Dentures: dentures also sit on top of the gum tissue. However, the base of a denture—either an upper or lower one—is molded to fit over the patient’s unique gum and jawbone tissue. Patients can additionally use specially-formulated adhesive to give them extra stability. Thanks to state-of-the-art dental implant technology, you now have more options than conventional bridges and dentures. Dental implants are different from bridges and dentures in that they have replacement tooth roots as well as visible crowns. Full-sized implants: these are used to replace individual missing teeth. We will first place the titanium root into the empty spot along your gum and jaw line. Over time, the titanium will bond with your real bone tissue, ensuring a stable, permanent fit. On top of this root we attach an abutment, and then custom-crafted restoration. What you end up with is as close to a new natural tooth as is possible with modern technology. Mini dental implants: because they are thinner... --- - Published: 2020-05-12 - Modified: 2020-05-12 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/our-saint-paul-dentists-can-help-you-get-the-most-out-of-your-brushing-routine Brushing your teeth may seem failproof, but the truth is there are a few simple things that you can do to get the most out of your oral hygiene routine. Begin by choosing the right tool for the job Size: when we talk about brush size, we are mainly referring to the size of the brush head, which holds the bristles. Make sure that the head of your toothbrush is small enough to reach your back molars, and the surrounding gum tissue. Bristle Strength: you can choose from brushes with bristle strengths ranging from soft to extra-firm. The safest way to clean your smile is to clean your smile with the softest brush without sacrificing quality. Ask you dental team if you aren’t sure what strength is right for you. Age: as your toothbrush gets older, the bristles become less effective, and your brush can actually harbor harmful bacteria. Swap you toothbrush for a new one every three to four months. Then perfect your technique: Buffing: rather than moving your toothbrush back and forth as you clean, try using small circular motions to dislodge more plaque. Gentle Pressure: it is very important that you use only gentle pressure on your teeth and gums. Brushing too aggressively leads to enamel thinning as well as gum tissue recession. Use a Timer: when you brush your teeth, morning and night, do so for two full minutes. Flossing: the ADA recommends that patients floss once a day; try adding this into your routine at... --- - Published: 2020-04-28 - Modified: 2020-04-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/our-saint-paul-tmj-dentist-provides-comprehensive-care At the Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Dentistry we truly believe that every one of our patients should be able to show off attractive, healthy smiles. Our treatment protocol is especially thorough and far reaching, so today our Saint Paul dentists are going to be talking about some of the benefits of our unique treatment philosophy. Keep reading to learn more  Provide biologic dentistry Our office is a biologic practice, which means that we always consider how your oral health interacts with whole-body wellness. Additionally, our goal is to optimize the structure and health of your smile, which simultaneously improves your dental aesthetics. We never endorse undergoing a “quick fix” cosmetic treatment that may undermine your long-term oral health. Offer a range of treatments We try to keep dental care simple for our patients by offering a full complement of restorative and cosmetic treatments here in our conveniently located practice. From TMJ treatment to dental implants to mercury-free fillings, we have you covered. We also offer flexible scheduling options so that your whole family can get the care they need to stay smiling. Build long-term treatment plans Another benefit of working with our team is that we collaborate with you to help you reach your long-term oral health goals. We see the whole picture—including how different treatments can be used in combination to optimize your results. We believe that dental care should not only deliver immediate results that look great, but that it should safeguard your oral health for the... --- - Published: 2020-02-11 - Modified: 2020-02-11 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/from-our-saint-paul-dentist-take-care-of-your-smile-even-when-you-re-dealing-with-colds-or-flu When you are under the weather, your immune system is depleted and you feel exhausted. This is when, for many people, oral hygiene habits start to slip. Our Saint Paul dentists are here to encourage you to make a special effort to keep up with your oral hygiene routine in sickness and in healthy. Keep reading to get some simple tips on things you can do. Ditch your old oral hygiene tools If you are using an old toothbrush, now is the time to swap it out for a fresh one. Older brushes are less effective, because the bristles have worn down, and they can actually harbor bacteria. Drink plenty of water Staying hydrated is crucial to your healing, and it also gives your smile a boost. Water refreshes your smile, and dislodges oral bacteria and food particles. Plus, as you drink water, you are actually prompting natural saliva production. Avoid sugary products Take care to use mouth rinses, cough drops, and other ameliorative measures that are sugar-free. Keep in mind that bacteria use sugars and refined carbohydrates as fuel, so it is in your best interest to minimize the presence of these types of foods and drinks in your diet. Keep your oral hygiene tools within reach Sometimes when we get sick, we can start to feel so exhausted and worn down that even completing our daily oral hygiene routines can seem too strenuous. To make it easier on yourself, try placing some oral hygiene tools, like mouth rinses... --- - Published: 2019-12-17 - Modified: 2019-12-17 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/need-a-smile-makeover-the-st-paul-dentist-explains-how-veneers-can-help Have you ever wished that you could have a flawless smile – one that lights up a room as soon as you enter? This is an attainable goal that your St. Paul dentist can easily achieve with porcelain veneers. What are Porcelain Veneers? One of the significant benefits of porcelain veneers is that we can use them to correct a wide variety of smile flaws: Mask cracked, chipped, or broken teeth Disguise the appearance of crooked teeth Cover spaces lefts by gaps between teeth Alter the appearance of severely stained or discolored teeth Lengthen the appearance of teeth Do Porcelain Veneers Look Natural? Porcelain veneers are not only versatile, but they blend in perfectly with your natural teeth. The translucent quality of porcelain makes them an excellent choice for a cosmetic dental treatment that is flawless and looks just like your natural teeth – only better! In fact, chances are that no one will notice you’ve had any work done! Contact our Office Today for More Information Are you tired of living with a smile that is less than perfect? If you’re ready to take the step to finally enjoy the smile of your dreams, please contact our St. Paul dentist today. We would love to meet you and work with you to see if porcelain veneers are the right choice for your lifestyle and budget. --- - Published: 2019-12-10 - Modified: 2019-12-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/not-feeling-well-don-t-neglect-your-oral-health-helpful-tips-from-the-mill-valley-family-dentist If you are sick with a cold or flu, your oral health probably isn’t your priority. Depending on how sick you are, it can be an exhausting thought just to drag yourself out of bed, much less head to the bathroom to brush your teeth! However, neglecting your oral hygiene at this time can, unfortunately, can mean bad things for your teeth and gums. Your St. Paul general dentist doesn’t expect you to be an oral health superstar during this time, but taking care of yourself now can minimize the risk of developing cavities and other oral health issues. Here are a few easy things you can do to protect your oral health, so look them over so you can be prepared the next time you get sick: Put floss on your nightstand – Daily flossing is critical for preventing gum disease, so keep floss on your nightstand. That way, you will be more likely to use it while you are lying in bed with nothing else to do! Stay hydrated – It is common to get dry mouth when you are sick, but the lack of saliva promotes bacterial growth. Many cold medications are also dehydrating, so keep a bottle of water with you at all times. Sucking on sugar-free cough drops can also help stimulate the flow of saliva. Don’t skip brushing – It may be the last thing on your mind, but brushing is just as important when you’re sick. You may be surprised at how brushing... --- - Published: 2019-12-03 - Modified: 2019-12-03 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/the-st-paul-cosmetic-dentist-discusses-professional-teeth-whitening Has your smile lost the brilliance it once had? Have you tried over-the-counter tooth whitening products and seen disappointing results, if any at all? If you are tired of stained or yellow teeth, our St. Paul teeth whitening dentist office is where this can all change. There are many over the counter tooth whitening systems on the market today, but none are as effective or provide the same level of whitening as the professional products. Tooth whitening is the simplest and least expensive way to enhance your smile and restore a youthful appearance. Why Your Teeth Are Stained or Discolored Teeth can naturally be less than white or maybe stained and discolored due to: Age Genetics Illness Prescription medications  Most common reasons for discoloration are due to: Tobacco use Coffee Red wine Dark teas Cola drinks How Zoom! Teeth Whitening Helps Tooth whitening is one of the safest dental procedures available. The Zoom! whitening system is a state of the art, in-office procedure. It is a safe, easy, and effective bleaching process that lightens the discoloration of your enamel and dentin. We offer this system as well as other professional home whitening products. We perform the whitening procedure while you sit back in our comfortable chair, and relax while you listen to your favorite music. Contact your St. Paul teeth whitening dentist for a complimentary consultation to evaluate your whitening goals and needs. We take the time to ensure that you will leave with the beautiful vibrant smile you are looking... --- - Published: 2019-09-17 - Modified: 2019-09-17 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/is-your-smile-ready-for-holiday-family-photos-st-paul-teeth-whitening-dentist-explains-your-smile-ma Can you believe that it's only a couple of months until Thanksgiving, and the winter holidays aren't far behind? If you don’t feel confident about your smile, it shows. Let this be the year that you are the person in the family photos with the biggest, brightest smile! There have been so many advances in modern dental materials and techniques that there’s virtually no limit to the types of smile transformations we can create for you. The St. Paul teeth whitening dentist would like to share a few esthetic treatments we offer that will leave you with a healthier, more beautiful smile than when we started. When we talk about a smile makeover, we are referring to a combination of different cosmetic treatments. When combined, these treatments will give dramatically improve your appearance and give your confidence a boost. Who is a Good Candidate for a Smile Makeover? You are a good candidate for a smile makeover if you are dealing with multiple esthetic dental flaws. The main criteria that you should be in otherwise good dental health since smile makeovers tend to be esthetic in nature. Here are a few of the most popular treatments we offer and how our cosmetic dentist can use them to enhance your smile. Professional Teeth Whitening If you want to have a bright, white, and beautiful smile, an ideal option is teeth whitening. Professional dental bleaching treatment can brighten even the most stained smile by up to seven shades in a single visit.... --- - Published: 2019-09-10 - Modified: 2019-09-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/the-facts-you-need-to-know-about-orthodontics-shared-by-the-st-paul-invisalign-dentist Are you an adult who’s considering minor orthodontics, you’re most likely focused on the esthetic result. That’s understandable! It can be exciting to think about smiling again with confidence! An attractive smile is certainly an asset, but you may not have given a lot of thought to the long-term health effects of orthodontic treatment. It’s true that treatment can dramatically alter your appearance, but straighter teeth also result in a healthier smile. Crooked Teeth and Your Oral Health You already know that crooked teeth have a negative impact on the appearance of your smile. But patients looking for a St. Paul Invisalign dentist may not realize how a misaligned smile affects overall oral health. Here are a few examples of oral health problems related to crooked or crowded teeth. Difficulty cleaning: If you don’t have clean teeth, you don’t have a healthy smile. Proper oral hygiene is essential if you want to enjoy a life free of dental problems. Crooked or crowded teeth make it difficult to practice good oral hygiene because you may not be able to floss between them. This puts you at risk for decay and periodontal disease. Involved orthodontic problems: When one or more teeth are crooked or crowded, surrounding teeth start to shift as well. Your teeth are constantly moving, and as the root of a crooked tooth tilts to one side or the other, adjacent teeth follow. Putting off treatment may result in more involved orthodontic problems down the road. Dental bite: If you... --- - Published: 2019-09-03 - Modified: 2019-09-03 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/the-st-paul-general-dentist-explains-risk-factors-for-oral-cancer While oral cancer makes up only a small portion of all annual cancer cases, it is still a serious problem. Oral cancer cases that are diagnosed in the early stages of development have a significantly improved survival rate — up to 80 percent after five years. For this reason, St. Paul general dentist wants you to be aware of risk factors for oral cancer that might affect you. Risk Factors for Oral Cancer The following risk factors can’t be changed, but raising your awareness can help you report any potential problems when treatment options and positive outcomes are greatest. Heredity – There’s sufficient evidence to suggest that the probability of oral cancer can run in families even if no other risk factors like smoking or alcohol use are present. Age – More than 90 percent of all oral cancers occur in individuals over 40. However, the incidence among younger people has been on the uptick recently, perhaps related to lifestyle behaviors. Race – African Americans have a higher incidence of oral cancer than Caucasians. The following are risk factors that can and should be addressed: Smoking tobacco use – Smokers are at five to nine times greater risk for developing oral cancer Alcohol– Moderate to heavy drinkers are at three to nine times greater risk; the higher the alcohol content, the greater the risk Chronic sun exposure - Often connected with lip cancers  As part of your routine oral hygiene, you should closely monitor any changes in your mouth that... --- - Published: 2017-01-17 - Modified: 2017-01-17 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/state-of-the-art-treatment-at-st-paul-dental-implants-office-increases-success-rates Dental implants are the most sophisticated replacement option for missing teeth, but have historically proven to be time-consuming to place. 3-D cone beam scans at the St. Paul dental implants office significantly reduce the time it takes to implant teeth, and improved treatment planning accuracy also increases the success rate of implant procedures. How We Use Cone Beam Technology (CBT) Our state-of-the-art cone beam scanner generates highly accurate 3D images as well as 2D panoramic images with minimal radiation. Cone beam scans are an invaluable aid in planning dental implant treatment and also assist in the diagnosis and treatment of other facial abnormalities. The advantage that 3D imaging holds over regular dental x-rays is that the bone structure, bone density, tissues and nerves can be viewed clearly. The 3D images produced with cone beam technology at our St. Paul Dental Implantsntal implants office provide us with valuable information about your teeth, your dental bone, and the relationship between your upper and lower jaw. These high-resolution images allow us to more accurately complete surgeries such as dental implants and extractions. Here are some of the main ways in which cone beam scans are used in dentistry: Measure the quality and density of the jawbone where the implant will be placed Pinpoint the most effective placement for implants, including the angle of best fit Precisely decide on the appropriate size and type of implants Diagnose tumors and disease in the early stages Plan the complete surgical procedure in advance, from start to... --- - Published: 2016-10-25 - Modified: 2016-10-25 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dentist-offers-state-of-the-art-trudenta-treatment The care that we provide in our St. Paul dental office goes far beyond simply treating cavities and cleaning teeth. One of the most important things that we do in our office is to help people who battle chronic facial and neck pain using innovative TruDenta treatment. If you want to learn more from our dentist about what goes into TruDenta, just keep reading this quick overview! As we mentioned, the purpose of TruDenta is to treat long-term facial and neck pain, and to minimize the risk of reoccurrence. Our dental team has found that many people feel trapped in a loop of experiencing chronic pain. While numbing agents and medications can provide some temporary relief, our team provides treatments that lead to more lasting, meaningful relief. The TruDenta protocol combines different therapies in order to help the pain sufferer: · Treatments to modify and perfect the patient’s bite · Muscle stimulation and manipulation · Laser therapies to relax and support tissues · Ultrasound treatments One of the major benefits of TruDenta is that it completely medication and drug free. Because many people who suffer from chronic pain want to avoid becoming dependent on drugs, TruDenta is a welcome alternative. The positive effects of TruDenta compound over time; the longer that you undergo treatment the better we are able to address the root causes of your chronic pain. That being said, many people report an improvement in facial and neck pain after just one or two sessions. After our team... --- - Published: 2016-10-18 - Modified: 2016-10-18 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-dentist-helps-people-manage-chronic-tmj-issues-and-headaches Our St. Paul dental practice focuses on comprehensive care, which means that we provide treatments far beyond filling cavities and improving dental aesthetics. One type of treatment that is vital for many adult patients is TMJ treatment. TMJ problems are often closely related to dental issues, and definitely linked with overall oral/jaw health dynamics. TMJ symptoms can manifest in a number of ways: · Jaw pain and tenderness · Tooth pain near the back of your smile · Ear or neck pain—you may find that the pain seems to “radiate” or move over time · Frequent headaches · Clicking/popping sensation in the jaw when you chew or speak · “Locking” sensation in the jaw—you may be unable to open your mouth all of the way for an extended period of time These problems often occur because your top and bottom teeth are not coming together evenly and naturally. Poor bite alignment causes you to unconsciously change how you are chewing; thus putting pressure on your temporomandibular joints. TMJ sufferers are also likely to be dealing with bruxism, which is basically chronic dental grinding. This clenching or grinding habit may be happening at night, so the patient isn’t sure why TMJ problems are popping up. The treatments that our team uses to treat chronic TMJ pain and headaches is FDA-approved and non-surgical. Ultrasound treatments as well as laser therapy help your temporomandibular joint relax and let go of tension. Then, bite modification treatments are used to address the underlying causes of... --- - Published: 2015-11-10 - Modified: 2015-11-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-general-dentist-helps-patients-relax-with-nucalm-sedation-dentistry In traditional sedation dentistry, many dentists choose controlled substances to help their nervous patients relax. Thanks to the NuCalm system, used by the St. Paul General Dentist, we no longer need to use drugs to sedate our most anxious patients. NuCalm is a proven, safe, chemical-free, sedation-dentistry system. We don’t inject drugs, and we don’t use laughing gas. NuCalm is a comprehensive system that consists of dietary supplements, a cranial electrical stimulation (CES) device, calming music with neuroacoustic sound, and light-blocking glasses that reduce distractions. How NuCalm Works At the beginning of a dental appointment, our dentist or another member of our professional team will administer the NuCalm system using four steps: We’ll give you chewable dietary supplements that are formulated to help you relax by counteracting the effects of adrenalin. A nervous person’s body produces adrenalin, which amplifies the nervousness. Next, NuCalm microcurrent electrode patches are placed behind your ears, connects wires from the electrodes to the CES device, and then turns it on. The gentle, low current helps the patient feel calm and happy. We give you a pair of NuCalm noise-cancelling headphones, connected to an MP3 player that plays neuroacoustic software, a mixture of soothing music and computer-generated sound to add to your relaxation. Finally, NuCalm light-blocking glasses limit visual distractions so you can relax more easily and completely. The Benefits of NuCalm The NuCalm system benefits both patients and their dentists. For example: The near-sleep state induced by the NuCalm system helps you stay and unafraid... --- - Published: 2015-10-20 - Modified: 2015-10-20 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dentist-puts-patients-at-ease-using-nucalm We understand that, for many people, undergoing dental treatment can be a scary and anxiety-producing proposition. Our dental team firmly believes that the marvels of modern dentistry can help patients stay comfortable and calm in the dentist’s chair. That is why we are so proud to offer NuCalm® therapy in our St. Paul dental practice. This short article is going to give you an overview of how NuCalm® works and whom it can help. What is NuCalm®? NuCalm®is an all-natural, multi-faceted protocol that turns dental treatment into a refreshing, calming experience. This therapy combines four different components to deliver results: 1. First you will take a dietary supplement to help minimize the amount of adrenaline that floods your system. Your dentist may also apply a NuCalm® topical cream to further counteract your body’s stress response. 2. Then, your dentist will place small microcurrent stimulation patches behind your ears. The gentle microcurrent energy helps your body relax. 3. The next step is very simple—you just pop on some noise-lessening headphones! These headphones are going to play a specific neuroacoustic tones that help you fall into a “pre-sleep” state. 4. Finally, you’ll cover your eyes with a comfortable light-blocking eye mask. This eye mask will keep you from being distracted by unnecessary visual stimuli. Once all of these components are in place, you will be lulled into a pre-sleep state, so that you can breeze through dental treatment. Patients report that, using NuCalm®, they feel relaxed and stress-free throughout the dental treatment... --- - Published: 2015-05-05 - Modified: 2015-05-05 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/why-replacing-teeth-at-the-st-paul-dental-implants-office-is-important Dental implants are one of the best methods available for replacing missing teeth. In the past, you had limited choices for tooth replacement, but at our St. Paul Dental Implants Office, we now provide you with the option of dental implants to help preserve your oral health while restoring function and beauty. Why Are Missing Teeth a Problem? The major problem created by missing teeth is that surrounding teeth can become crooked. Even one missing tooth can alter the alignment of the rest of your teeth and cause them to move out of their proper position. This happens because a missing tooth allows surrounding teeth to drift into the empty space. In turn, this creates a domino effect and can leave you with severe alignment issues. When teeth are crooked, you face these other oral health issues as well: Teeth grindingPremature wearTemporomandibular joint disorder Missing teeth can cause other problems such as deterioration of your jawbone. When you have all your teeth, the roots help stimulate growth of the bone in the jaw as you chew. When teeth are missing, the bone can deteriorate over time. This can change your dental bite and, if not treated by your dentist, cause a change in the shape of your face and your appearance. How do you Replace Teeth With Implants? Dental implants are widely used in modern dentistry since they can replace a single or multiple missing teeth, and they do not require alteration of adjacent teeth like dental crowns do. Dental... --- - Published: 2015-04-28 - Modified: 2015-04-28 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-st-paul-teeth-whitening-dentist-talks-about-kor KöR - An Innovative Whitening Option An innovative new treatment for teeth whitening is KöR Whitening and Deep Bleaching Treatment. KöR has gained widespread popularity with our patients. It is fast, permanent, easy to use, and provides dramatic results. In fact, it is considered by many to be the most effective teeth whitening treatment offered today. What Makes KöR Different? You may wonder what makes KöR teeth whitening so different from other products. The answer is that it uses a proprietary gel that restores the ability of your dental enamel to absorb stain-fighting oxygen. This allows the whitening gel to work deep inside your surface enamel to lift even the most resistant stains. First, the Highland Park St. Paul Teeth Whitening Dentist will perform a simple treatment in our office. Subsequently, you will continue the teeth whitening treatment in the privacy of your home. At-home treatment is simple: fill the custom-fit bleaching trays with KöR whitening gel, and wear the trays while sleep. When you first start whitening, you should wear the whitening trays ever night for two weeks. At the end of this treatment period you will meet with our dental team so that we can assess your whitening results. You will then keep your custom-fit trays so that you can perform periodic touch-up whitening treatments at home. Please Contact Us for More Information If you’re ready for a true smile transformation, please contact our dentist office for more information. We’ll be happy to discuss the advantages of KöR... --- - Published: 2015-04-21 - Modified: 2015-04-21 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-invisalign-dentist-explains-benefits-of-invisalign-clear-orthodontics There are several options available today for straightening your teeth. The St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist recommends Invisalign because it offers many advantages over other types of braces. Of course, the goal with any type of braces is to leave you with a confident, beautiful smile. But when you compare Invisalign® to other teeth-straightening options, you will see the obvious advantages Invisalign Benefits Some of the benefits of using Invisalign braces are: Allows you to eat the foods you enjoy Completely removable Virtually invisible – most people won’t even notice them Allows you to thoroughly brush and floss your teeth Made of comfortable, flexible plastic without any metal or wires Less frequent visits to your dentist for adjustment or checkups Traditional bracket and wire braces have always had one significant drawback. Since they cannot be removed for brushing and flossing, food can get trapped in the brackets and wires, leading to plaque buildup and tooth decay. Invisalign aligners are completely removable, so you can brush and floss normally.   Straight Teeth are Healthy Teeth You may also be surprised to learn that having a perfectly aligned smile is not just good for your appearance. If your teeth are overcrowded or spaced too far apart, you may be at greater risk for developing periodontal disease. With Invisalign clear orthodontics provided by the St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist, the potential for buildup of plaque and tartar are greatly reduced as your teeth are moved gently into proper alignment. This is important because... --- - Published: 2015-04-14 - Modified: 2015-04-14 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-tmj-dentist-explains-tmj-causes-and-treatment TMJ is the term that many people use to refer to Tempro-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome. This is a common condition that causes painful and annoying symptoms like severe headaches, jaw pain, teeth grinding, and ringing in the ears. If you suffer from TMJ, you know that the symptoms can seriously impact your everyday life. When patients first visit the St. Paul TMJ Dentist to discuss their symptoms, most are not aware that the underlying cause of their problems can be effectively treated by a dentist. The symptoms of TMJ are most often caused by a misaligned dental bite. While this may seem like a difficult problem to address, it is often possible for the St. Paul TMJ Dentist to adjust the bite without painful surgery. It is very common for patients with TMJ to experience teeth grinding – bruxism – especially during the night. Over time, this grinding of teeth can erode the structure of the teeth, leading to more severe dental problems in the future. If TMJ is not treated, it can lead to erosion of the jawbone and loose teeth. It is important for anyone experiencing the symptoms of TMJ to visit the dentist for an exact diagnosis. TMJ could be a result of several different problems, but a misaligned dental bite is the most common. The best long-term solution is to undergo a "bite analysis" that will be used to evaluate the balance between the jaw joint, the jaw muscles, and the way the teeth touch. Once... --- - Published: 2015-04-07 - Modified: 2015-04-07 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/reasons-for-bad-breath-discussed-by-the-st-paul-family-dentist  Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, is a very common complaint that is thought to affect millions of people, including as much as 25 to 50 percent of middle-aged and older adults. It’s the driving force behind the market for breath mints and mouth rinses, with an estimated value of $3 billion annually. The St. Paul Family Dentist sees all sorts of patients with bad breath, so you’re hardly alone. Can bad breath come from somewhere other than the mouth? Most of the time, bad breath does originate in the mouth; its characteristic smell is often caused by volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), which have a foul odor. However, it can also come from the nose, possibly as a result of a sinus infection or a foreign body. In some cases, pus from the tonsils can cause halitosis. There are also a few diseases that sometimes give your breath an unpleasant odor. What exactly causes the mouth to smell bad? In a word: bacteria. Millions of these microorganisms (some of which are harmful, and some helpful) coat the lining of the mouth and the tongue. They thrive on tiny food particles, remnants of dead skin cells, and other material. When they aren't kept under control with good oral hygiene and regular visits to the St. Paul Family Dentist — or when they begin multiplying in inaccessible areas, like the back of the tongue or under the gums — they may start releasing the smells of decaying matter. Other issues can also contribute... --- - Published: 2015-03-31 - Modified: 2015-03-31 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-invisible-braces-dentist-explains-advantages-of-six-month-smiles How does Six Months Smiles differ from Invisalign? Both Invisalign and Six Month Smiles provide you with a discreet option for correcting misaligned teeth. The main difference is that Six Month Smiles orthodontics used by the St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist consist of clear wire and tooth-colored brackets that blend with your natural teeth. Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic resin and are virtually invisible when worn. Many adults and teenage patients are comfortable with either of these options. But it really depends on the individual needs and desired goal of the treatment. How is it possible for Six Month Smiles to work so quickly? Six Month Smiles can straighten your teeth in such a short amount of time because the system does not work on correcting the bite in your back teeth like traditional braces do. Your front teeth (those that show when you smile) move at a faster rate than your back teeth, so treatment is finished once the front teeth are positioned in a cosmetically pleasing arrangement. The rate of movement is the same as with traditional braces, but the total treatment time is faster. What do Six Month Smiles braces look like? The Six Month Smiles treatment system works with clear wire and tooth-colored brackets that blend naturally with your teeth. Many adult and teenage patients choose Six Month Smiles orthodontics because they don’t have to wait for years while wearing shiny metallic braces that mar their appearance. If you’re interested in learning more about... --- - Published: 2015-03-24 - Modified: 2015-03-24 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-reviews-benefits-of-removing-amalgam-fillings  In the past if you had a cavity, your only option was a metal filling. But today you have a more attractive option: tooth-colored composite fillings. The results are so remarkable that many patients wonder if they should proactively replace all their metal fillings with composites. It’s a choice that patients should make in consultation with their St. Paul Family Dentist. We can explain the ins and outs of tooth-colored fillings as well as discuss when replacing metal fillings is appropriate. Benefits of Composite Fillings Composites are a relatively new choice, but one that has quickly climbed in popularity for a number of reasons. A prime consideration for many patients is appearance. Restorations with composites create a tooth-colored repair that blends in with other teeth, avoiding the harsh and unattractive appearance of metal. But composites have other advantages as well. In addition to looking natural and visually blending in with other teeth, composites: Do not contain mercury Bond to the tooth and strengthen it Require less of the tooth to be removed to place the filling With so many advantages, you may be weighing the benefits of swapping out your metal fillings for this more attractive option. Reasons to Replace Amalgam Fillings If you are thinking about replacing metal fillings, here are typical reasons to update them: Fractured Teeth: We see many patients with amalgam fillings who have cracks all around their teeth. Why? When a dentist removes the cavity and prepares the tooth for an amalgam filling, a certain... --- - Published: 2015-03-17 - Modified: 2015-03-17 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-shares-important-facts-about-oral-cancer Although oral cancer makes up only a small portion of annual cancer cases, it is still a serious problem. Since cancerous lesions in the mouth are easily mistaken for other kinds of sores or overlooked as they develop, they're often not detected until the later stages of the disease. That is why oral cancer screening is a part of every exam by the St. Paul Family Dentist. Oral cancer cases that are diagnosed in the early stages of development have a significantly improved survival rate — up to 80% after five years. The most important factor for early detection is your own observations while performing oral hygiene. A lesion can occur anywhere in your mouth. The main areas of concern are: The tongue, particularly the sides and underneath The lips, especially the lower lip The oral cavity (the mouth) in general The pharynx (back of mouth and throat) Risk Factors for Oral Cancer The following risk factors can’t be changed, but the St. Paul Family Dentist knows that awareness raises your vigilance so potential problems can be addressed early, when treatment options and positive outcomes are greatest. Heredity Aging - More than 90% of all oral cancers occur in individuals over 40. However, the incidence among younger people has been on the uptick recently, perhaps related to lifestyle behaviors. Race - African Americans have a higher incidence of oral cancer than Caucasians. The following are risk factors that can and should be addressed: Smoking and chewing tobacco - Smokers are at... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-invisalign-dentist-reviews-the-cosmetic-strategies-behind-invisalign-and-six-month-smiles Let’s begin with Invisalign. Invisalign is a treatment system that moves the patient’s natural teeth using a series of clear plastic aligners. As a patient, you will wear each aligner for 2-4 weeks. Then, you will transfer to a new aligner, which will move your teeth a little closer to your dream smile. You will continue this process until your teeth are in their ideal positions. People love Invisalign because: The aligners are clear, so this treatment is discreet The aligners are completely removable, so you can clean your teeth normally Invisalign does not use any metal—the aligners are comfortable and clear! Six Month Smiles, on the other hand, utilizes brackets and wires to straighten teeth in a very short amount of time. Six Month Smiles focuses on moving those of your teeth that are most visible, and most important to the overall appearance of your smile. Patients choose Six Month Smiles because: This treatment can perfect your smile in a short period of time—the average treatment time is just six months! Six Month Smiles does offer clear brackets, so that your smile will still look great during treatment Six Month Smiles is much more affordable than other orthodontic options When you come in to speak with our Saint Paul Invisalign and Six Month Smiles dentist, our dental team will help you determine if either of these treatment options is right for you. Get started by calling our office! --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-mn-dentures-dentist-explains-options-for-replacing-missing-teeth Let’s take a look at a few of these options: Dental Implants Dental implants provide a truly remarkable tooth replacement solution. Since dental implants were first introduced, they have helped thousands of people like you to enjoy healthy and beautiful smiles after losing their teeth. An easy explanation of how dental implants work is that individual replacement teeth that are surgically implanted in the jawbone. This is made possible by using a very small titanium screw placed in the jawbone. This becomes the new artificial root for the rest of the implant. Once the implant has healed, the root is capped with a natural looking restoration. A dental implant can last for years while helping to maintain the structure of your jawbone as well as your general oral health. Dentures As you probably know dentures sit on top of the gum and jaw bone. Dentures can be used effectively to replace multiple teeth. They provide replacement teeth in a fairly short amount of time. The main difference is that dentures are not permanently affixed to your jawbone. This means that they need to be taken out when sleeping. They also need to be cared for properly with cleaning and the use of dental adhesive. Bridges and Crowns Both bridges and crowns are effective solutions for replacing a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. In some cases they may be removable, but are usually permanently affixed with dental cement. Bridges are held in place because they are attached to adjacent... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-mn-general-dentist-discusses-the-dental-exams The dental exam and dental cleaning are two important elements of great oral health care. Most people understand this, and the St. Paul, MN General Dentist strives to educate our patients about these two preventive procedures. The recommendation is that you schedule your family’s dental exam every six months. The reason behind this timing is to ensure that you and your family receive regular, thorough examinations. In this way we are able to address any underlying issues or potential problems in a timely manner. The dental exam and cleaning are essential steps that provide your dentist with enough information to treat problems effectively. When you schedule regular appointments at the Minneapolis Dentist Office you ensure a sound routine of at-home oral health care. But this routine will also give you peace of mind in knowing that you and your family receive individualized care. You can also be confident that your oral health care is being monitored regularly by a dentist familiar with your history. Introducing children to regular dental checkups helps get them started on a routine of good oral health care but also allows them to become accustomed to the dentist and the office setting. Many adults who did not have the advantage of regular early childhood office visits developed an aversion to dentists and dental treatments, creating greater potential for oral health care problems in the long-term. The importance of regular office visits is most evident when this routine is not followed and subsequent problems develop, becoming painful,... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/saint-paul-mn-tmj-dentistry-office-describes-symptoms Patients of our Saint Paul, MN TMJ Dentistry office who suffer with TMJ can experience a wide range of problems. Many patients believe they may have symptoms of TMJ such as pain in the face, jaw and head as well as neck aches. They may not really be aware of what exactly TMJ is and would like answers. TMJ is the acronym for Temporomandibular Joint. At some point this joint may suffer excessive stress and is properly known as TMD, or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. The painful symptoms are often a result of this excessive pressure on the joint. This condition can result from decay or trauma that has caused uneven surfaces on the teeth. In turn, this creates an unbalanced bite and puts abnormal amounts of stress on the TMJ. Other symptoms of TMJ can include: A clicking or popping noise in the jaw. This is actually the sound of the joint wearing down and is a result of the cartilage in the joint becoming malformed. Soreness in the facial muscles because of the continued stress Ear congestion or ringing in the ears If symptoms are caused by an improper bite, the team at our Saint Paul, MN TMJ Dentistry office can create a mouth guard that is custom-made for you. This is done with the aid of a computer and is designed to reposition the TMJ and surrounding muscle into a relaxed position. This mouth guard stops the pain and returns the mouth to a stable and comfortable position.... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dental-implants-dentist-explains-tooth-replacement-options Depending on your specific situation, we can choose one of several options. Let’s take a look at a few: Dental Implants Dental implants are a truly remarkable tooth replacement solution. Since dental implants were first introduced, they have helped thousands of people like you enjoy healthy and beautiful smiles after losing teeth. An easy explanation of how dental implants work is that a tiny titanium post is surgically placed in your jaw bone. This post eventually bonds with surrounding bone and tissue and acts as a replacement root for the rest of the implant. Once the implant has healed, the root is capped with a natural looking restoration by your dentist. A dental implant can last for years while helping to maintain the structure of your jawbone as well as your general oral health. Partial and Full Dentures As you probably know, dentures sit on top of the gum and jaw bone. Dentures can be used effectively to replace multiple missing teeth. They provide replacement teeth in a fairly short amount of time. The main difference is that dentures are not permanently affixed to your jawbone, often resulting in irritation and discomfort. However, we have the option of using dental implants to secure the denture to your jaw bone. This creates a very stable base that retains the denture, preventing embarrassing shifts and slips, and eliminating the need for the use of messy adhesives. Dental Restorations - Bridges and Crowns Bridges and crowns are both effective solutions for replacing a... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dental-implants-dentist-offers-tips-for-dental-implant-care How Does a Dental Implant Work? A dental implant consists of a very small titanium post capped off with a dental restoration. The post is surgically placed in the jawbone and will eventually integrate with surrounding bone and tissue. The dental crown is the visible replacement for your missing tooth and is attached to the implant. Once the process is complete, you will end up with a fully functioning replacement tooth. The implant itself is stable and will remain in place permanently, but it’s important to remember that the visible part of the unit is a dental crown. Just like any other dental restoration, the crown can be damaged if not cared for properly. Protect Your Dental Implant from Damage A dental implant placed by the St. Paul Dental Implant Dentist will last for many years. But the attached dental crown must be treated with care. You need to protect it from breakage and avoid biting down on foods like nuts or hard candies that can crack, chip, or loosen the crown. Grinding your teeth can also cause the crown to become damaged. If you grind your teeth, you should let your dentist know so that we can suggest options to protect the restoration from damage. How to Clean Your Dental Implant You can care for your dental implant by brushing and flossing normally as you would your natural teeth. Be sure to schedule regular dental exams with our dentist and cleanings with a hygienist so that your implant can... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dental-implants-dentist-talks-about-tooth-replacement The Benefits of Dental Implants One of the problems associated with tooth loss is the subsequent loss of bone in the jaw where the natural tooth root used to be, causing additional dental health issues and bite problems. Dental implants offered by the St. Paul Dental Implants Dentist address this issue, offering patients who have lost a tooth a “replacement in kind”: a prosthetic tooth that is anchored into the jaw bone with a tiny titanium post that mimics the tooth root. The tiny post implanted acts much like a natural tooth root, which helps to generate natural bone growth to support the tooth structure. A dental implant not only provides patients with a secure, natural looking and functioning tooth, but it can also help to reduce further bone loss and support long term dental health. Other Uses for Dental Implants Dental implants can also be used to secure dentures when a patient has either multiple missing teeth to replace or wishes to fix the problem of ill-fitting dentures. Strategically placed implants will serve to support the denture and also help to maintain sufficient bone retention and growth for better long term oral health. The St. Paul Dental Implants Dentist offers implant dentistry and will create a customized treatment plan to suit your dental health needs and budget. Dr. Malterud has advanced training and extensive experience in so you can be assured of the highest quality dentistry available. If you have a damaged tooth, missing tooth, or slipping dentures contact... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dental-implants-office-answers-frequently-asked-questions What is the purpose of a dental implant? The basic purpose of a dental implant is to replace the root portion of your missing tooth to restore normal chewing as well as the appearance of your smile. The implant itself is a tiny titanium screw that is placed in your jaw bone and integrates with surrounding tissue. This allows for placement of dental restorations that may include one tooth or several teeth. Why are dental implants so different from crowns? Dental implants offer the patient a permanent solution for replacement of missing teeth. The implant is designed to look, feel and function just like your natural tooth. Dental implants are completely independent of surrounding teeth, so they also provide a tooth replacement option that does not put stress on surrounding healthy teeth. How do I know if a dental implant is right for me? If you’re healthy enough to undergo tooth extraction, you are probably a good candidate for placement of a dental implant. A patient with one or more missing teeth or one who wears dentures may benefit from dental implants. How long do dental implants last? The long-term success rate for dental implants is very high. Before proceeding with a treatment plan, the team at the St. Paul Dental Implants Office will conduct a comprehensive exam of your jaw to determine if there is sufficient bone density to place an implant. Will my dental implant need continued dental maintenance? Of course, you will need to maintain routine visits... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dental-implants-office-provides-tips-for-care-and-maintenance-of-dental-implants Replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant can have a positive and profound effect on your life. But it’s important to remember that, just like your own natural teeth, your dental implant requires some special maintenance if you want it to last. Once you have had an implant placed at the St. Paul Dental Implants Office, the last thing you want is to have to go through replacement of a damaged dental restoration. A dental implant is made up of a small titanium screw topped with a dental restoration. This titanium screw – the implant – is surgically placed in the jawbone and holds the restoration in place. The restoration is then attached on top of the screw and serves as the replacement tooth. To get the most out of your dental implant, you need to care for it as you would any other dental restoration to protect it from damage. How to Clean your Dental Implant You can care for your dental implant by brushing and flossing normally as you would your natural teeth. Be sure to schedule regular dental exams and cleanings so that your implant can be checked periodically by your dentist or hygienist to ensure that it is structurally sound. Protect your Dental Implant from Damage Placed by the St. Paul Dental Implants Office, your dental implant will last for many years. As with other dental restorations, a major threat to dental implants is bruxism (grinding or clenching of the teeth) and chewing hard substances... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-dentist-describes-dental-implant-exam St. Paul Dentist Describes Dental Implant Exam All dental procedures must start with a thorough examination by your dental professional. In the case of dental implants, we look for a specific set of indicators to decide if you are a good candidate for dental implants. Visual Exam One of the first areas we look at during the dental implant exam is the condition of the bone where the dental implant will be placed. Our Highland Park, MN Implant Dentist will perform a visual exam of the jawbone to determine if the area in which the dental implant is to be placed has sufficient strength and density to accommodate the implant. Dental X-Rays After we visually examine and measure the jawbone, we will take x-raysHighland Park St. Paul Dental Care will be happy to answer any other questions you may have or to describe the process in more detail. Evaluation of Bone We must evaluate the quality of the jawbone by evaluating the shape of the bone (both width and height). We do this in order to determine if there is adequate mass of bone and that this bone is of sufficient density to create a strong root structure with the dental implant fixture. It’s possible that we will find that the bone in the region of the planned dental implant is not adequate. This deficiency can result from bone resorption (bone loss) that takes place in areas of the jaw bone where teeth have been extracted. This condition occurs most... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-discusses-removal-of-mercury-fillings Amalgam fillings containing mercury have been in use by dental professionals for decades. These fillings were widely used because amalgam fillings were strong and durable. But over the years we have learned that the presence of mercury in the body is a serious medical concern. As the public is educated to the dangers of mercury, our office receives an increasing number of requests for removal of old mercury fillings and replacement with attractive, safe composite fillings. Dental fillings made of mercury have the potential to leak. This is a health risk, but also leads to the deterioration of healthy tooth structure due to the increased opportunity for dental decay to develop. Amalgam fillings containing large amounts of mercury also expand and contract, leading to possible cracking or breaking of the tooth. This can be painful and result in several visits to the dentist to restore the tooth. It may require placing of a dental crown and possible root canal treatment. In extreme cases, removal of the tooth may be needed. On the positive side, advances in modern dentistry offer safe and cosmetically appealing options for replacement of old mercury fillings. The following steps will be taken when you arrive at the office of St. Paul Family Dentist for removal of your old amalgam fillings: A rubber dam will be placed in your mouth to prevent debris from being swallowed. Cold water will be used during removal to keep the mercury cool and prevent possible release of harmful vapors. The amalgam... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-discusses-ways-to-cope-with-dental-anxiety At our St. Paul Family Dentist Office, your comfort and well being are of the greatest importance to our team. We work closely with you to reduce stress and provide painless and efficient treatments. We employ the most recent technological advancements including minimally invasive procedures that reduce your time in the chair and potential discomfort. But these factors alone may not give you the peace of mind you’re looking for when visiting your dentist. So what can you do to help alleviate this anxiety? Feeling a loss of being in control contributes to dental phobia. Here are some practical tips to help you feel more in control during your dental appointments and hopefully reduce your stress level. Communicate with your dentist – You may find it embarrassing to talk about your fear, but your dentist needs to be aware of your anxiety in order to take the necessary precautions during treatment. Agree on a signal – Patients are often afraid that the dentist won’t know when and if they are experiencing pain or anxiety, and this contributes to their fear. Agree to a signal with your dentist beforehand. A simple “stop” hand signal can be used to alert your dentist to your discomfort immediately. Use a throat spray – If you worry about gagging, sprays used for sore throats can help to keep the gag reflex under control for the duration of the appointment. Sedation – Sedation offers an excellent solution for many patients who would not otherwise be able... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-discusses-ways-to-deal-with-dental-anxiety At our St. Paul Family Dentist office, your comfort and well being are of the greatest importance to our team. We work closely with you to reduce stress and provide painless and efficient treatments. We employ the most recent technological advancements including minimally invasive procedures that reduce your time in the chair and potential discomfort. But these factors alone may not give you the peace of mind you’re looking for when visiting your dentist. So what can you do to help alleviate this anxiety? Feeling a loss of being in control contributes to dental phobia. Here are some practical tips to help you feel more in control during your dental appointments and hopefully reduce your stress level. Communicate with your dentist – You may find it embarrassing to talk about your fear, but your dentist needs to be aware of your anxiety in order to take the necessary precautions during treatment. Agree on a signal – Patients are often afraid that the dentist won’t know when and if they are experiencing pain or anxiety, and this contributes to their fear. Agree to a signal with your dentist beforehand. A simple “stop” hand signal can be used to alert your dentist to your discomfort immediately. Use a throat spray – If you worry about gagging, sprays used for sore throats can help to keep the gag reflex under control for the duration of the appointment. Sedation – Sedation offers an excellent solution for many patients who would not otherwise be able... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-explains-connection-between-dry-mouth-and-periodontal-disease Prescription Medications and Dry Mouth There are record numbers of people taking prescription medications for conditions such as high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, allergies, weight loss, Parkinson's disease, pain and many others. The one side effect these medications have in common is dry mouth. At the St. Paul Family Dentist office we understand that dry mouth is not just a nuisance, and that the symptoms of dry mouth can cause significant problems with oral hygiene. Saliva is the body’s natural cleansing mouth rinse because it contains compounds that effectively kill bacteria in the mouth. Its presence is beneficial and necessary because it washes away bacteria that accumulate as well as well as the food and debris on which the bacteria feed. Without a diligent oral hygiene routine the conditions for bacterial growth (and associated periodontal disease) are enhanced by dry mouth since the absence of sufficient amounts of saliva reduce the body’s natural ability to neutralize bacterial waste. Periodontal Disease and Bad Breath Everyone experiences bad breath periodically, but millions of people suffer from chronic halitosis, and for the majority of people it originates from the gums and tongue. The odor is caused by bacteria in the mouth, the decay of food particles, other debris in your mouth and improper oral hygiene. The only way to eliminate bad breath is to find the cause. The first place to start is with a diligent routine of proper oral hygiene to get rid of hidden bacteria multiplying between your teeth. It’s also... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-explains-process-for-removing-old-mercury-fillings Fillings using mercury were very popular because, at the time, they were the most durable type of filling available. They were used primarily on first and second molars that undergo a tremendous amount of force as we chew. But advances in the materials used in dentistry have made it possible to use natural-colored composite fillings that are just as strong and durable and do not contain mercury. One of the dangers of dental fillings made of mercury is their potential to leak. Not only does this pose a risk to your health, it also leads to the deterioration of healthy tooth structure. Amalgam fillings containing mercury also expand and contract, which can lead to cracking or breaking of the tooth. This can be painful and usually results in having to make multiple visits to the dentist to restore the tooth. In these situations, a root canal and placement of a dental crown is usually required. Many patients are choosing to have their old mercury fillings replaced with composite fillings that are safe and also more effective for preserving healthy tooth structure. When you arrive at the St. Paul Family Dentist to have your amalgam fillings removed, we will take the following steps: A rubber dam will be placed in your mouth to prevent debris from being swallowed. Cold water will be used during removal to keep the mercury cool and prevent possible release of harmful vapors. The amalgam filling will be carefully removed in chunks to avoid drilling and the... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-explains-the-oral-systemic-connection We are all becoming much more aware of the importance of taking care of all aspects of our health. Patients at our St. Paul Family Dentist office understand that a healthy lifestyle with a proper diet and regular exercise are important. But many of these patients are not aware of the important role that good oral hygiene plays in maintaining overall health. Recent research indicates that a link may exist between lack of proper oral hygiene and other health problems. Several recent studies have established a connection between gum disease and developing serious health concerns like heart disease. These studies show that there is evidence that bacteria associated with gum disease may also be linked to chronic infections, respiratory disease and stroke. There is also increasing concern that gum disease poses a serious risk to pregnant women for pre-term delivery and low-birth-weight babies. Gum disease is also a threat to people with diabetes since controlling their blood sugar becomes more difficult. For example, research shows that treatment of gum disease in diabetics makes controlling blood sugar easier. Taking all this into consideration, you can see how important it is that we view our good oral health as being closely linked to good overall health. By maintaining routine oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist, you limit your exposure to the bacteria that cause gum disease. This not only improves your oral health, but may protect your cardiovascular and respiratory system and reduce and, if you are pregnant, improve your... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-family-dentist-offers-tips-for-overcoming-dental-anxiety At our St. Paul Family Dentist office, your comfort and well being are our top priority. Our team takes your needs seriously, and we will work with you to reduce stress and provide comfortable, efficient treatments. We employ the most recent technological advancements including minimally invasive procedures that reduce your time in the chair and potential discomfort. But these factors alone may not give you the peace of mind you’re looking for when visiting your dentist. So what can you do to help alleviate this anxiety? Feeling a loss of being in control contributes to dental phobia. Here are some practical tips to help you feel more in control during your dental appointments and hopefully reduce your stress level. Communicate with your dentist – You may find it embarrassing to talk about your fear, but your dentist needs to be aware of your anxiety in order to take the necessary precautions during treatment. Agree on a signal – Patients are often afraid that the dentist won’t know when and if they are experiencing pain or anxiety, and this contributes to their fear. Agree to a signal with your dentist beforehand. A simple “stop” hand signal can be used to alert your dentist to your discomfort immediately. Use a throat spray – If you worry about gagging, sprays used for sore throats can help to keep the gag reflex under control for the duration of the appointment. Sedation – Sedation offers an excellent solution for many patients who would not otherwise... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-general-dentist-discusses-the-use-and-benefits-of-dental-crowns What is a dental crown?   Dental crowns ("caps") are one of dentistry's most versatile types of restorations at our St. Paul Dental Implants Office. Crowns are a type of dental restoration which, when cemented into place, fully cup over the portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line. In comparison, fillings are dental restorations that fill in or cover just a portion of a tooth. Since dental crowns encase the entire visible aspect of a tooth, a dental crown in effect becomes the tooth's new outer surface. Although there are several types of crowns porcelain are the most popular. They are highly durable and will last many years. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile. When is a dental crown used? A crown essentially becomes the new tooth restoring it to its original shape and may be used to strengthen broken, fractured teeth, cover large or fractured fillings or for cosmetic enhancement. In addition, all teeth that have root canal treatment should have a crown (cap) placed. This protects the tooth, prevents it from breaking, and restores it to its full function. What does getting a crown involve? A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment at St. Paul, Minneapolis Dental Implants Office will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) used to create a temporary crown as well as your permanent custom crown. The dentist prepares the... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-invisible-braces-dentist-answers-questions-about-six-month-smiles Treatments for orthodontic problems have come a long way in recent years, providing a number of short-term solutions that can bring your smile up to par in as little as six months. Six Month Smiles clear orthodontics have helped millions of adults attain the beautiful smile they’ve always wanted. What is Six Month Smiles? Six Month Smiles placed by the St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist office is an orthodontic treatment system with a unique approach to straightening your teeth. The system uses a series of comfortable clear brackets and wires to gently straighten your teeth. Why do Six Month Smiles clear braces work so quickly? The purpose of traditional metal braces is to correct an imbalanced dental bite as well as straightening misaligned teeth. These two parts of orthodontic treatment are dealt with separately, which is one reason why traditional braces take years to produce results. Most adults do not have a problem with their dental bite and just want a quick cosmetic solution that will straighten their teeth. Six Month Smiles are specifically designed to straighten only the teeth that show when you smile. Treatment times vary, but the average is about six months. How much do Six Month Smiles cost? It’s impossible to quote a specific cost for Six Month Smiles treatment, because every case is different. However, Six Month Smiles treatment requires less time and fewer visits to the dentist, so they are generally more affordable than other clear orthodontics. Contact Our Office for More Information If... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-invisible-braces-dentist-answers-six-month-smiles-questions Six Month Smiles clear braces are a great way to achieve your goal of a perfectly-aligned smile in a relatively short period of time. Whether you’re getting ready for a special event or just want to finally fix your crooked smile, Six Months Smiles can produce positive results in as little as six months. How do Six Months Smiles clear braces differ from Invisalign? Both Invisalign and Six Month Smiles provide you with a discreet option for correcting misaligned teeth. The main difference is that Six Month Smiles orthodontics used by the St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist consist of clear wire and tooth-colored brackets that blend with your natural teeth. Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic resin and are virtually invisible. Many adults and teenage patients are comfortable with either of these options. But it really depends on the individual needs and desired goal of the treatment. How is it possible for Six Month Smiles to work so quickly? Six Month Smiles can straighten your teeth in such a short amount of time because the system is not designed to correct your dental bite as traditional braces do. Your front teeth (those that show when you smile) move at a faster rate than your back teeth, so treatment is finished once the front teeth are positioned in a cosmetically pleasing arrangement. The rate of movement is the same as with traditional braces, but the total treatment time is faster. What do Six Month Smiles braces look like? The Six... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-invisible-braces-dentist-describes-six-month-smiles-treatment How is the Six Months Smiles treatment different from Invisalign? Both provide discreet options for straightening teeth. The main difference is that Six Month Smiles orthodontics used by the St. Paul Invisible Braces dentist clear wire and tooth-colored brackets to blend with your natural teeth. Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic resin and are virtually invisible when worn. Many adults and teenage patients are comfortable with either of these options. But it really depends on the individual needs and desired goal of the treatment. How can Six Month Smiles work so quickly? Six Month Smiles can straighten your teeth in such a short amount of time because the system does not work on correcting the bite in your back teeth like traditional braces do. Your front teeth (those that show when you smile) move at a faster rate than your back teeth, so treatment is finished once the front teeth are positioned in a cosmetically pleasing arrangement. The rate of movement is the same as with traditional braces, but the total treatment time is faster. What do Six Month Smiles braces look like? The Six Month Smiles treatment system works with clear wire and tooth-colored brackets that blend naturally with your teeth. Many adult and teenage patients choose Six Month Smiles orthodontics because they don’t have to wait for years while wearing shiny metallic braces that mar their appearance. If you’re interested in learning more about Six Month Smiles or Invisalign treatment, please contact our office to schedule an... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-invisible-braces-dentist-discusses-reasons-to-consider-invisalign What kind of alignment issues can Invisaligncorrect? Invisalign aligners are used to correct the same alignment and bite issues as traditional metal braces. But the great advantage of the Invisalign system is that the aligners are not only virtually invisible to the naked eye, but they can be removed as needed for eating or other activities. Common alignment issues that can be corrected with Invisalign are: Overcrowding – Overcrowding becomes a problem when too little space exists for teeth to align properly in the mouth. This can cause tooth decay between crowded teeth as well as increasing the likelihood of gum disease. Large gaps between teeth – This problem can occur either because teeth are missing or because the jaw had developed abnormally around missing teeth. Cross bite – A common dental problem, cross bite occurs when one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, leading to erosion of bone and gum disease. Overbite – Another common problem is overbite, which occurs when upper teeth project further than the lower teeth, creating the possibility of jaw pain and TMJ. Underbite – The opposite of the overbite is underbite, and it occurs when the lower teeth project further than the upper teeth. Eventually, jaw pain and TMJ may result. What does treatment with Invisalign involve? The St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist Office develops a treatment plan by taking three-dimensional digital images of the jaw. The dentist will closely review these images, viewing the teeth from several different angles. This... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-tmj-dentist-explains-treatment-for-tmj TMJ is the term that many people use to refer to Tempro-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome. This can include any number of conditions that causes painful and annoying symptoms like severe headaches, jaw pain, teeth grinding, and ringing in the ears. If you suffer from TMJ, you know that the symptoms can seriously impact your everyday life. When patients first visit the St. Paul TMJ Dentist to discuss their symptoms, most are not aware that the underlying cause of their problems can be effectively treated by a dentist. The symptoms of TMJ are most often caused by a misaligned dental bite. While this may seem like a difficult problem to address, it is often possible for a dentist t to adjust the bite without painful surgery. It is very common for patients with TMJ to experience teeth grinding – bruxism – especially during the night. Over time, grinding your teeth can erode the structure of teeth, leading to more severe dental problems in the future. If TMJ is not treated, it can lead to erosion of the jawbone and loose teeth. It is important for anyone experiencing the symptoms of TMJ to visit the dentist for an exact diagnosis. TMJ could be a result of several different problems, but a misaligned dental bite is the most common. The best long-term solution is to undergo a "bite analysis" that will be used to evaluate the balance between the jaw joint, the jaw muscles, and the way the teeth touch. Once a diagnosis... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-tmj-dentist-reviews-the-importance-of-a-balanced-dental-bite You’ve probably heard your dentist talk about your “bite” When having fillings, crowns, and bridges placed. Your dental bite (occlusion) refers to the relationship between your upper and lower teeth when you bite down. You may have had to bite down on a colored piece of paper that leaves a mark on your teeth. This helps guide the St. Paul TMJ Dentist so he can eliminate high spots on your dental restoration that will affect your dental bite. But why is dental bite so important, and why do we spend so much time trying to get it just right? What is Dental Occlusion? Dental occlusion refers to the way your upper and lower teeth come into contact with each other. It relates to the alignment of top and bottom teeth whether you are chewing or at rest. The concern in dentistry is whether or not this alignment is healthy. There are different types of occlusion: Static Occlusion:The way your teeth fit together when your jaw is at rest Centric Occlusion: The way in which your teeth fit together when your jaw is closed. The focus of centric occlusion is the alignment of your upper and lower teeth when you bite down. Malocclusion: Occurs when your teeth do not align properly and so do not fit together in the right way. Malocclusion can cause under bites, overbites, and cross bites. What Problems Can Malocclusion Cause? Malocclusion can lead to serious oral health problems. It can cause your dental restorations to wear... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-mn-dentist-discusses-dental-concerns-and-aging For instance, it’s quite common to notice a loss of healthy dental enamel. This can cause sensitivity and discoloration of teeth as the underlying yellowish dentin becomes more noticeable. As you age you need to be aware of the type of foods you eat and the effect they have on your teeth and gums. Years of tobacco use will also lead to discoloration of your teeth. Your dentist recommends curtailing the use of tobacco products because it can help greatly. Periodontal disease is another common problem for aging adults. Brushing twice a day and after meals will go a long way in helping to remove food particles that can cause bacteria to form. The St. Paul, MN Dentist recommends using a soft bristle brush to reduce further wear of enamel. If you’ve noticed that your teeth have become more sensitive over the years, you may want to switch to toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. It is also advisable to stay away from sticky and acidic foods like gummy candies and soda since they can also lead to tooth decay and loss of tooth enamel. Acid reflux is another condition that leads to erosion of otherwise healthy tooth enamel. Avoid foods that you know cause acid reflux and consider using an over-the-counter acid reducer. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums as you age is not impossible, and it always best to take steps sooner rather than later to ensure your oral health. Make regular appointments for professional cleanings and checkups to stay... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-mn-dentistry-office-provides-tips-for-handling-dental-emergencies Tooth knocked out If a tooth has been knocked out of the mouth, it is essential to contact your dentist immediately since tissues, nerves and blood vessels can become damaged. If the tooth can be placed back into its socket within an hour, there is a chance the tissues will grow to support the tooth once again. Contact your dentist immediately. DO NOT touch the root of the tooth. Pick it up carefully by the crown and rinse under warm water. Place the tooth back in the socket if possible. If you cannot place the tooth, put it into a cup of milk, saliva, or water as a last resort. It is important to keep the tooth from drying out. Get to the dentist, quickly and safely. The dentist will try to replace the tooth in its natural socket but if the root structure of the tooth is seriously damaged, root canal therapy may be necessary. Lost filling or crown Once you’ve lost a filling the affected tooth may become highly sensitive to temperature changes and pressure. When a crown comes out make a dental appointment as soon as possible. Keep the crown in a cool, safe place so your St. Paul, MN General Dentistry team can try to reinsert it. If the dentist is not immediately available you can follow these temporary steps. Apply clove oil to the tooth to alleviate pain. Clean the crown and reattach with dental cement. This can be purchased at the local pharmacy. DO... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-mn-dentures-dentist-answers-common-denture-questions Will my new dentures last a long time? Dentures are custom-made to conform to your mouth comfortably and perfectly. Right after placement, your dentures will possess a snug fit. As time passes the contours of your jaw line and gums can alter, causing some denture wearers discomfort. Over time these fluctuations may cause your dentures to come to be uncomfortable, in some cases even causing blisters or sores inside your mouth. Frequent visits to the St. Paul, MN Dentures Dentist offer the best solution to avoid this movement from causing you severe discomfort. We will evaluate your dentures at each and every visit to ensure that we are able to monitor these subtle variations as they happen. Routine wear, together with the normal changes that take place inside your mouth as you age will call for most dentures to be adjusted or perhaps have to be partially remade after a number of years. What are ‘Immediate’ Dentures? Your dentist places ‘immediate’ dentures quickly after your teeth are extracted. Immediate dentures are customized to fit your mouth; nevertheless, while the healing period moves forward, the contour of one's gums will adjust. To be able to effectively fit the changing contours by way of the healing process, ‘immediate’ dentures should be adjusted after healing is total so as to fit effectively. Will I need adhesive for my dentures? A denture that's appropriately fitted may perhaps not require denture adhesive to keep them stable. But many denture-wearers understand that the added security of... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-mn-dentures-dentist-describes-placement-of-dentures Dentures are a removable replacement for missing teeth. They are carefully crafted by the St. Paul, MN Dentures Dentist to look completely natural. Dentures are created so that they are not only functional, but enhance your smile as well. You may have heard dentures referred to as being either partial or complete. Partial dentures are used to fill spaces created by missing teeth and act as placeholders to prevent surrounding teeth from shifting. When all teeth are missing, dentures are referred to as being complete. When it comes to complete dentures, there are two types - conventional or immediate. Conventional dentures are used when all teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has been allowed time to heal completely, usually about four to six weeks. The disadvantage with conventional dentures is that during the healing period the patient will have no teeth. In order to prevent this, the St. Paul, MN Dentures Dentist creates immediate dentures in advance so that they can be placed immediately after the removal of teeth. The process of having dentures made requires several visits to the dentist for preparation. The first step is taking impressions and measurements of your teeth so that the dentures will provide a comfortable fit and natural appearance. This will be followed by several appointments where the dentures will be adjusted for a perfect fit and tweaking of their shade and shape. Finally, your dentist will precisely adjust and place the completed denture. It is very common for patients with... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-mn-dentures-dentist-discusses-dentures-1 Dentures are a removable dental appliance that acts as a replacement for missing teeth. Our St. Paul, MN General Dentist office creates dentures that closely resemble your natural teeth. Depending on your particular situation, dentures may even enhance your smile. There are two types of dentures – complete and partial. Complete dentures are necessary when all teeth are missing or have been removed. Partial dentures are used when some of the patient’s natural teeth remain. The use of partial dentures fills spaces created by missing teeth, and also act as a stabilizer to prevent surrounding teeth from drifting into the empty space. A complete set of dentures are either “conventional” or “immediate. ” Conventional dentures are used after teeth have been removed and gum tissue has had time to heal, usually about 4 to 6 weeks. During this time the patient goes without teeth. For patients who do not want to go without teeth, immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed. Once the healing period is over, adjustments will be made to ensure proper fit of the denture. The process of getting dentures requires several appointments over a period of time. Accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture. The St. Paul, MN Dentures Dentist will schedule several appointments so that your dentures can be adjusted to ensure proper shape, fit and color. During the final appointment, your dentures will be precisely fit and adjusted, and the... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-mn-general-dentist-describes-symptoms-of-periodontal-disease How does periodontal disease develop? Throughout the day, bacteria build up on the teeth and around the gum line, developing plaque. Plaque is the sticky bacterial film coating enamel and oral tissue as we eat, drink, and speak. Flossing and brushing are useful for removing plaque build-up. Even the most diligent at-home oral health care, though, cannot eliminate plaque completely. When plaque remains on your teeth it hardens into a substance called tartar. We’ve listed some of the more common signs of periodontal disease below: Gums bleed during brushing or flossing, or during gentle probing Gums appear swollen and red or inflamed Permanent teeth feel as if they are becoming loose Your dental bite (how your teeth fit together) seems to have changed in recent months Your gums seem to be “pulling away” from your teeth Teeth appear longer as gum tissue recedes Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth is an ongoing issue even after use of mouthwash or brushing your teeth Even patients who take extra care with their oral hygiene can develop periodontal disease. While proper brushing and flossing remove much of the bacteria that lingers on teeth, at-home brushing alone cannot remove all the plaque. When plaque calcifies it hardens and becomes tartar. Tartar can only be removed by your dental hygienist. The best “cure” for periodontal disease is prevention. Without professional cleanings, tartar continues to build up on teeth, causing dental decay, gum disease, and eventually tooth loss. Contact the Highland Park, MN... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/st-paul-mn-invisalign-dentist-discusses-clear-braces-advantages The process begins when we take an impression of your mouth in order to create a clear thermoplastic aligner. This custom made aligner fits your teeth similarly to a mouth guard. However, the Invisalign aligner is designed to gently realign your teeth. Every two weeks you will remove your current aligner and move to the next aligner that has been carefully calculated to shift your teeth to the next phase in the straightening process. It will take approximately a year for your aligners to gradually mold your teeth to a straighter and happier smile. The Invisalign system corrects nearly any adjustment issue you may have with your teeth. Highland Park, MN Dental Care is an approved Invisalign provider, and our patients have chosen the system to correct the following issues: Overbites/Underbites Spaces/gaps in teeth Overcrowding Crooked teeth Benefits of Invisalign Discreet: Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible. The casual observer won’t even notice any difference when you’re wearing your aligner. Removable: You can remove your aligners when you eat, brush your teeth, or any other time that it is essential to have the aligner removed. Comfortable: Since Invisalign aligners are made of a soft, flexible material, they are much less likely to create any irritation to your mouth. The Invisalign system is a perfect choice to fit into your busy lifestyle while providing the straight, beautiful smile you’ve always dreamed of. --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/tips-for-handling-dental-emergencies-provided-by-st-paul-family-dentist Tooth Knocked Out If a tooth has been knocked out of the mouth, it is essential to contact us immediately since tissues, nerves and blood vessels can become damaged. If the tooth can be placed back into its socket within an hour, there is a chance the tissues will grow to support the tooth once again. DO NOT touch the root of the tooth. Pick it up carefully by the crown and rinse under warm water. Place the tooth back in the socket if possible. If you cannot place the tooth, put it into a cup of milk, saliva, or water as a last resort. It is important to keep the tooth from drying out. Get to the dentist, quickly and safely. The dentist will try to replace the tooth in its natural socket but if the root structure of the tooth is seriously damaged, root canal therapy may be necessary. Lost Filling or Crown Once you’ve lost a filling, the affected tooth may become highly sensitive to temperature changes and pressure. When a crown comes out make a dental appointment as soon as possible. Keep the crown in a cool, safe place so our St. Paul Family Dentist can try to reinsert it. While you wait to get to our office, you can follow these temporary steps. Apply clove oil to the tooth to alleviate pain. Clean the crown and reattach with dental cement. This can be purchased at the local pharmacy. DO NOT use any type of regular... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/5-reasons-you-need-healthy-teeth-shared-by-st-paul-general-dentist Your good dental health is important and something that should not be taken for granted. Your teeth serve many purposes that most of us never think about. Today, the St. Paul General Dentist shares 5 Reasons You Need Healthy Teeth: Chewing the Foods You Love - Healthy teeth are necessary for chewing, especially hard or crunchy foods. Our teeth give us the ability to tear and break down all kinds of food, from celery sticks and crusty bread to turkey and all the trimmings. Convey Friendliness and Warmth - Our smiles convey to others how we feel towards them. A warm smile and hug to a close friend is sure to brighten the day for both of you. Smiles tend to be contagious they just make you and others feel happy! If you don’t work with your dentist to develop a preventive treatment plan, your teeth can deteriorate, and smiling becomes awkward and embarrassing. Communicate Clearly - Proper speech is directly related to tongue and tooth position. Without our teeth we would have a hard time communicating correctly. Speaking with damaged or missing teeth is extremely challenging. Improve Your Appearance - Your teeth give your face a fullness and symmetry that you lose when teeth are missing. When a person is missing teeth, facial support is gone, causing a sunken in appearance. Your teeth are important as support for your lips and cheeks and give your face a full, rounded, youthful, look. Maintain Healthy Bones - The bones of the... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/benefits-of-six-month-smiles-provided-by-st-paul-invisible-braces-dentist The Six Month Smiles system is a great way achieve your goal of a perfectly aligned smile in a relatively short period of time. Whether you’re getting ready for a special event or just want to finally fix your crooked smile, Six Months Smiles provided by the St. Paul Invisible Braces Dentist can quickly produce positive results – often in as little as six months. How is it possible for Six Month Smiles to work so quickly? Six Month Smiles can straighten your teeth in such a short amount of time because the system does not work on correcting the bite in your back teeth like traditional braces do. The teeth that show when you smile move at a faster rate than your back teeth, so our dentist is finished with your treatment once the front teeth are positioned in a cosmetically pleasing arrangement. The rate of movement is the same as with traditional braces, but the total treatment time is faster. What do Six Month Smiles braces look like? The Six Month Smiles treatment system works with clear wire and tooth-colored brackets that blend naturally with your teeth. Many adult and teenage patients choose Six Month Smiles orthodontics because they don’t have to wait for years while wearing shiny metallic braces that mar their appearance. How does Six Months Smiles differ from Invisalign? Both Invisalign and Six Month Smiles provide you with a discreet option for correcting misaligned teeth. The main difference is that Six Month Smiles orthodontics consist... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/effects-of-aging-related-to-dental-health-discussed-by-highland-park-st-paul-general-dentist As we age, it’s quite common to lose a certain amount of healthy dental enamel. This can lead to sensitivity and discoloration of teeth since the underlying yellowish dentin becomes more noticeable. If you want to keep your teeth as bright as possible, you need to be aware of the type of foods you eat and the effect they have on your teeth and gums. Years of tobacco use will also lead to discoloration of your teeth. There are many good reasons to quit smoking, and this is just another. Your dentist recommends curtailing the use of tobacco products because it can help greatly. An increase in the development of periodontal disease is another common problem for aging adults. Regular professional cleanings and brushing twice a day and after meals will go a long way in helping to remove food particles that can cause bacteria to form. The Highland Park St. Paul General Dentist recommends using a soft bristle brush to reduce further wear of enamel. If you’ve noticed that your teeth have become more sensitive over the years, you may want to switch to toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. It is also advisable to stay away from sticky and acidic foods like gummy candies and soda since they can also lead to tooth decay and loss of tooth enamel. Acid reflux, another condition common in older adults, leads to erosion of otherwise healthy tooth enamel. Avoid foods that you know cause acid reflux and consider using an over-the-counter acid... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-st-paul-dental-implants-dentist-discusses-versatility-of-implants As traumatic as losing a tooth can be, the positive news is that advances in dentistry now leave you with more options to replace a missing tooth than ever before. One particular option that is quickly becoming the replacement method of choice is the dental implant. Dental implants are designed to integrate into your jawbone, providing a solid foundation – actually a replacement for the natural root of your tooth – which is provided by a small titanium post that is surgically implanted into the jaw bone. When the dental implant is first placed by the dentist, the tissue around the implant will gradually integrate with the implant itself, a process known as osseointegration. This process will ultimately form a strong structure that acts as a new root for your tooth. This is the solid foundation that will form the base for a natural-looking dental restoration. Dental implants may be used to replace a single missing tooth or several missing teeth. Dental implants are an outstanding tooth replacement when used alone. But they can also perform the function of helping to add stability to existing bridges or dentures. The team at our Highland Park St. Paul Dental Implants Dentist office can place dental implants strategically to create a sound foundation for bridges and dentures. Even though a bridge may stay in place, it can cause unnecessary structural stress and strain on your natural teeth. When combined with a dental implant, the bridge stays in place with dental implant sharing the... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-st-paul-general-dentist-discusses-aging-concerns-and-dental-health As we age, it’s quite common to lose a certain amount of healthy dental enamel. This can lead to sensitivity and discoloration of teeth since the underlying yellowish dentin becomes more noticeable. If you want to keep your teeth as bright as possible, you need to be aware of the type of foods you eat and the effect they have on your teeth and gums. Years of tobacco use will also lead to discoloration of your teeth. There are many good reasons to quit smoking, and this is just another. Your dentist recommends curtailing the use of tobacco products because it can help greatly. An increase in the development of periodontal disease is another common problem for aging adults. Regular professional cleanings and brushing twice a day and after meals will go a long way in helping to remove food particles that can cause bacteria to form. The Highland Park St. Paul General Dentist recommends using a soft bristle brush to reduce further wear of enamel. If you’ve noticed that your teeth have become more sensitive over the years, you may want to switch to toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. It is also advisable to stay away from sticky and acidic foods like gummy candies and soda since they can also lead to tooth decay and loss of tooth enamel. Acid reflux, another condition common in older adults, leads to erosion of otherwise healthy tooth enamel. Avoid foods that you know cause acid reflux and consider using an over-the-counter acid... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-st-paul-general-dentist-discusses-benefits-of-laser-dentistry Laser dentistry helps more patients than ever get the treatment they need comfortably and quickly. The revolutionary Lightwalker Laser is able to perform a number of the most common dental treatments: Remove periodontal disease (also known as gum disease) Remove cavities and prepare teeth for fillings Perform root canal treatment Eliminate cold sores and canker sores Correct certain cosmetic dental issues The use of lasers in dentistry also offers other important benefits: Laser dentistry can be safely used to treat patients who have special needs or concerns like children and adult patients with dental phobias. In most cases, your dentist does not need to use any anesthesia during laser treatment as it is very comfortable. There are no noisy drilling sounds that tend to add to the dental phobia that some patients and young children experience. Laser dentistry requires no invasive cutting so there is minimal bleeding and no stitches are needed. Through the use of laser dentistry the Highland Park St. Paul General Dentist can pinpoint the specific area that needs treatment. This benefits the patient as we are able to preserve more of the healthy tooth structure when filling teeth or performing root canal treatment. Preserving the healthy parts of your teeth is important to good oral health. Laser dentistry allows us to provide patients with efficient and comfortable dental treatment. Please contact our office for a free consultation so we can discuss the ways in which laser dentistry may benefit you. --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-st-paul-general-dentist-explains-reasons-for-mercury-free-dentistry Although the FDA has deemed amalgam fillings to be safe for use in dental fillings, there is still quite a bit of controversy surrounding their safety and the impact they may have on one’s overall health. There is a certain amount of mercury vapor that leaks out of these amalgam fillings over time. Understandably, this has many patients concerned about the use of this material in their own fillings and especially the safety of amalgam fillings for their children. The amount of amalgam fillings used has dropped significantly in recent years, but many dentists still choose to use these mercury fillings. Highland Park St. Paul General Dentist uses only mercury-free fillings made of tooth-colored composite materials, porcelain or gold. While a tooth-colored filling is aesthetically appropriate for teeth that are visible, gold is a strong and durable filling for back teeth that withstand tremendous amounts of biting pressure. A trained dentist can easily remove and replace mercury fillings, often strengthening the tooth to a greater extent than the original amalgam filling. If you have broken fillings or mercury fillings you may want to consider having them replaced. Our professional team is trained in the specialized procedures necessary to safely remove amalgam fillings. Our procedure rooms are specifically designed to allow for the safe removal and replacement of old amalgam fillings, including air filtering systems that safely vent out any trace of mercury vapors. We follow strict protocols when replacing mercury with healthier, non-toxic material, and your safety and comfort is... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-st-paul-teeth-whitening-dentist-talks-about-kor-whitening KöR Teeth Whitening Treatment - A New and Popular Option A fairly new entry into the teeth whitening arena is the KöR Whitening and Deep Bleaching Treatment System. In the short time it's been available, it has gained widespread popularity with both dentists and patients. It is fast, permanent, easy to use, and provides spectacular results. In fact, it is considered to be the most effective teeth whitening treatment offered today. What Makes KöR Different from other Teeth Whitening Products? You may wonder what makes KöR teeth whitening so different from other products. The answer is that it uses a proprietary gel that restores the ability of your dental enamel to absorb stain-fighting oxygen. This allows the whitening gel to work deep inside your surface enamel to lift even the most resistant stains. First, the Highland Park St. Paul Teeth Whitening Dentist will perform a simple treatment in our office. Subsequently, you will continue the teeth whitening treatment in the privacy of your home. At-home treatment is simple: fill the custom-fit bleaching trays with KöR whitening gel, and wear the trays while sleep. When you first start whitening, you should wear the whitening trays ever night for two weeks. At the end of this treatment period you will meet with our dental team so that we can assess your whitening results. You will then keep your custom-fit trays so that you can perform periodic touch-up whitening treatments at home. Please Contact Us for More Information If you’re ready for a... --- - Published: 2015-03-10 - Modified: 2015-03-10 - URL: https://stpaulgeneraldentist.com/blog/highland-park-mn-general-dentist-describes-the-connection-between-oral-and-general-health In recent years many studies have been conducted. It has been found that there is a strong correlation between problems and diseases of the mouth and those of the body. Your risk of suffering from heart disease, diabetes, respiratory and other chronic diseases increases with the presence of chronic dental infections and periodontal disease. Heart Disease – Bacteria in the mouth resulting from periodontal disease attach themselves to coronary arteries as they enter the bloodstream. This can contribute to the formation of blood clots, potentially leading to narrowing of coronary arteries. Respiratory Disease - Research also suggests that the same oral bacteria can pose a risk to people who suffer from pneumonia, emphysema, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Bacteria from the mouth are drawn into the lower respiratory tract during normal inhalation, creating bacterial infections. Diabetes –If you have pre-existing diabetic conditions, you are at greater risk of developing periodontal disease. The presence of periodontal disease increases blood sugar levels, and controlling glucose levels a challenge. This factor alone can increase the risk of serious diabetic complications. There is clearly a significant relationship between the presence of periodontal disease and many serious diseases of the body. But there is a simple way to avoid these complications because periodontal disease is a highly preventable and treatable disease if it is caught quickly and not allowed to progress. Protect your oral and overall general health by contacting the Highland Park, MN General Dentist office to schedule your regular dental examinations and... --- --- ## Adwords Services --- ## Campaigns ---