Replacing Black and Unsightly Silver Fillings by Miami Dentist Dr. Bloch

As we all know, tooth decay can lead to cavities. For over 100 years, dentists have been using silver-mercury amalgam fillings to restore decayed or broken teeth. (In fact, the Chinese first used silver fillings in the 7th century.) Historically, the only other alternative was gold, and that was always too expensive for most folks.

These silver fillings are called amalgams. Amalgam fills the space where the decay in the tooth has been removed. However, over time, the amalgam can corrode and leak.

Teeth can crack because of the expansion of the amalgam. This blackens the silver and many times the tooth. This can be seen when a patient opens his or her mouth, and it is often a source of embarrassment for the patient.

 

Now, we have many ways to provide tooth-colored restorations. We can use adhesives

to bond tooth parts that look and act like teeth. We can provide a bright, healthy and

strong smile with these exciting new techniques in adhesion dentistry.

 

Composite fillings are a new and economical way to restore teeth while keeping patients' smiles looking great. They are made of a porcelain-like material that actually bonds to the tooth for a tight seal. They are strong and stain-resistant, and they are color-matched to the natural tooth, making them appear invisible.
 

Tooth-colored resin fillings are made of glass particles in a plastic matrix. The doctor

bonds the putty-like material to the tooth with a high-intensity light. This hardens the

material and allows it to be shaped and polished for immediate use.

 

Once completed, the tooth has a natural appearance and is actually stronger than before due to the strength of the adhesive agent used to bond the resin to the tooth. Resin restorations not only look better, but they are stronger and last longer than the old

silver-amalgam fillings.
 

Composite fillings also lack the sensitivity that is often associated with silver amalgam

fillings. They are especially suited for smaller cavities and for patients who may be

allergic to metal fillings.

If you have any questions about the benefits of replacing silver amalgam fillings with

invisible composite fillings call our friendly staff to schedule an appointment at (305)385-5555 or visit our website at http://www.BlochDentistry.com. We'd be happy to discuss your options. You may even be a candidate for sedation dentistry.

Miami Dentist Dr. Bloch

Dealing With Dental Anxiety - Tips From Miami Dentist Dr. Bloch

Anxiety-Free Dentistry

Anxiety Update: The Waiting Game

Perhaps you sometimes find yourself feeling uneasy about the prospect of sitting in my

chair. (Don't worry, I don't take it personally!) Well, the next time you're feeling that way,

remind yourself of this interesting tidbit:

U.S. researchers have located the human brain's "dread center," an area of the brain

responsible for feelings of foreboding. Brain scans show that neurons that generate the

feeling of anxiety lie within the same areas of the brain activated by pain.

How did they figure this out? Here comes the fun part! Researchers shocked the feet of

more than thirty courageous volunteers while simultaneously scanning their brains.

(Ouch!) Just be thankful you weren't asked to participate.

The study found that about a quarter of the group were "extreme dreaders" who were

more than willing to take a stronger jolt just to be done with the whole thing. It seems

that the dread of an experience can be more overwhelming than any pain or discomfort

actually associated with it.

Most dental procedures don't hurt, but the anxiety associated with them can be

extremely unpleasant. The anxiety could stem from a bad experience, a phobia, or even

from watching Little Shop of Horrors one too many times. No matter its cause, the

anticipation of things going wrong can be far worse than the actual experience

 

So try to remember this the next time you grimace at the sight of an appointment

reminder, a waiting room or a drill. The dread you're feeling is not proportional to the

experience you're facing. Just take a deep breath and remember that science agrees —

it really is all in your head.

If you're still feeling uneasy and want to find new methods for coping with your dental

phobia, call our friendly staff to schedule an appointment at (305)385-5555 or visit our website at ttp://www.BlochDentistry.com. We'd be happy to discuss your options. You may even be a candidate for sedation dentistry.

Preventing Decayed Teeth - Dental Care Tips from Miami Dentist Dr. Bloch

Fluoride, in proper dosage, has been shown to significantly reduce dental decay. When fluoridated water is less than the ideal amount or not available, fluoride supplements are recommended. (A call to your local water district is all that is necessary to determine whether your water has fluoride or not.)

When supplements are needed, the administration of fluoride supplements should begin shortly after birth and continue through the time of eruption of the second permanent molars (approx. 12 years of age).

Regular dental check-ups should begin no later than 18 months of age.

For more dental tips visit our website at www.BlochDentistry.com.Bloch Dentistry Center specializes in a wide range of dental services including: general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, root canals, periodontic treatments, and reconstructive dentistry. 

Call our friendly staff to schedule an appointment at (305)385-5555 or visit our website at http://www.BlochDentistry.com. We want to see you smile!

Dental Tooth Whitening for the New Year -Start the New Year with a bright smile -Miami Dentist

Start the New Year with a bright smile with a dental whitening. Below are the steps to achieving the brightest smile with teeth whitening.

 

1. Your dentist will first examine your teeth and gums and discuss the procedure best suited to your individual needs. Any cavities or gum problems must be treated before bleaching can begin.

2. The in-office method generally takes one to three hours and results in an immediate noticeable change.

3. For the at-home method, special molds will be made of your teeth, used to make custom-fitting flexible trays holding the bleaching gel comfortably in your mouth.

When you get your bleaching trays, you'll receive instructions about wearing them. These must be carefully followed. Only the materials provided by the dentist can be safely used.

4. Generally, the only side effect from treatment may be some sensitivity to hot and

cold foods. If this occurs, sensitivity normally disappears within 48 hours.

5. After completing the treatment, your teeth will be checked by your dental provider

to discuss the results.

6. Smile. Your teeth will radiate a bright new look!

Call our office to schedule a dental whitening.

Bloch Dentistry Center specializes in a wide range of dental services including: general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, root canals, periodontic treatments, and reconstructive dentistry.

Call our friendly staff to schedule an appointment at (305)385-5555 or visit our website at http://www.BlochDentistry.com. We want to see you smile!

Five Tips to Help You Maintain a Healthy Holiday Smile from Miami Dentist Dr. Bloch

It is possible to enjoy seasonal sweets and still have a cavity-free smile to flash in festive pictures. These tips will keep your teeth healthy during the holiday season.

Remember to Brush at Twice a Day

With the busy holiday season it is sometimes difficult to remember to brush. Holiday parties and special dinners with the family are great, but always remember to brush.

Avoid Too Much Candy – Little is better

It's the most wonderful time of year for candy canes, popcorn balls, and cookies -- and this nonstop buffet of sweets can wreak havoc on your teeth. Instead of constantly snacking, try eating a single dessert and brush your teeth after.   

Smart Snacking

Make sure you use a nutcracker, not your teeth, to shell nuts. No nutcracker? Choose a different snack. Is it worth it to break a tooth for a nut?

Keep Your Dental Routine

The holidays can upset your schedule, but you should still brush at least two times a day. To keep up good habits on the go, stash a toothbrush and mini tube of toothpaste in your purse or briefcase and make time to "freshen up" after meals. If brushing your teeth isn't an option, chew sugarless gum, which boosts saliva, helps flush out food debris, and more.

Keep Your Dental Appointments

Skipping a dental exam could get you on the naughty list. It is much better to catch problems now and not put them off until the new year.

Bloch Dentistry Center specializes in a wide range of dental services including: general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, root canals, periodontic treatments, and reconstructive dentistry.

Call our friendly staff to schedule an appointment at (305)385-5555 or visit our website at http://www.BlochDentistry.com. We want to see you smile!

 

 

 

 

 

Happy Thanksgiving from Miami Dentist Dr. Bloch

 

Happy Thanksgiving from Miami Dentist Dr. Bloch

May the good things of life be yours in abundance not only at Thanksgiving but throughout the coming year! Happy!

Dr. Bloch & Staff

www.BlochDentistry.com

Thanksgiving Feast Can Benefit Oral Health

Thanksgiving Feast Can Benefit Oral Health

This Thanksgiving we have much to be thankful for…good health, good food and great family and friends to share the holiday with. Our traditions and celebrations center on our bountiful meals, and planned correctly, this Thanksgiving dinner can be not only delicious but healthy for your bodies and teeth and gums too! Just like our bodies, our teeth and gums need many essential vitamins and minerals to stay strong and healthy.  In fact, to ensure proper tooth development and strength, adults, children, and seniors alike need calcium, vitamins and minerals in their diets.

This Thanksgiving, be sure to prepare a meal that is not only delicious but healthy for your teeth and gums too! Some vitamins and nutrients that are good for your oral health are vitamins A, C, D, phosphorous, and calcium.  A delicious Thanksgiving dinner can include them all.

Here are a few things that will make your mouth happy this Thanksgiving:

• Turkey is high in phosphorous, which is not only healthy for developing teeth but can actually rebuild and remineralize teeth and bones of the jaw

• Sweet potatoes are loaded with nutrients including vitamins A, C, and B6 and are thought to be much healthier and nutritious than regular white potatoes

• Green and winter vegetables are great sources of vitamins A and C, both of which are important for gum health and repair of gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis

• Cranberries contain flavonoids, which can prevent bacteria from sticking to teeth and forming plaque. Bacteria are responsible tooth decay and gum infections

• Pumpkin pies are loaded with vitamin C and calcium – important for gum health and developing teeth and bone maintenance

Healthy foods will always benefit your dental health. Include more green vegetables on your plate this Thanksgiving and not too many sweets!

Bloch Dentistry Center specializes in a wide range of dental services including: general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, root canals, periodontic treatments, and reconstructive dentistry.

Call our friendly staff to schedule an appointment at (305)385-5555 or visit our website at http://www.BlochDentistry.com. We want to see you smile!