Drinks That Eat Teeth

May 31st, 2017 by | No Comments

Drinks that eat teeth

As the weather gets warmer and summer is here we start to crave some of our favorite summer drinks! It’s easy to quench our thirst with fruit juices and sodas on a hot day or after a fun summer activity, but so many of these drinks we crave are damaging our teeth! When we drink fluids that are acidic and sugary, we begin to activate erosion on the enamel of our teeth. When that happens, a whole host of problems can occur. We begin to expose the dentin of our teeth, making them appear yellowish. We can also make our teeth extra sensitive, rounded or transparent on the edges, and get lots of plaque build-up. The sugary drinks and treats will promote acid-creating bacteria, which will damage the teeth the same way acidic drinks will.

So, what does ‘acidic’ even mean? When something is acidic it has a pH level between zero and seven. Zero is the most acidic (battery acid has a pH of one) and seven is neutral (water has a pH of seven). Would you believe that grapefruit juice has a pH of three? That’s quite acidic!

Be sure and check out our new “Drinks that Eat Teeth” webpage about drinks that can damage teeth and look for tips on how we can prevent further damage.

Remember also that Dr. Silberg at the Silberg Center for Dental Science to help with detecting acidic erosion within your own mouth. Dr. Silberg’s extensive experience with cosmetic and restorative dentistry will help make your teeth look fabulous, and build your confidence 10 fold! Make an appointment with us if you have questions about what your options are for discoloration, teeth sensitivity, plaque build-up, or any other symptoms of erosion. Many of these symptoms are listed at our “Drinks that Eat Teeth” page.

As one of Pittsburgh’s top periodontists, Dr. Silberg is a great resource to give you a better and healthier smile. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Silberg today!

What To Do When A Root Canal Fails

May 13th, 2017 by | No Comments

Treating Root Canal Failure at Silberg Center For Dental Science.

If a tooth becomes infected and painful, a root canal is a common treatment. Root canals do not fail often, but when they do fail, it is important to get the right treatment. Root canals involve the use of specialized tools to remove the root of a tooth and clean it so it is free of bacteria. Bacteria left inside the tooth will continue to grow and infect the tooth. If bacteria does continue to cause issues, extracting the tooth might be the only option to stop the pain. However, extraction leads to another problem, a missing tooth.

What Causes a Root Canal to Fail?

Root canals will fail if there are undetected canal branches, cracks in the root, or an obstruction that makes it difficult to properly clean the root of a tooth. A failed root canal will begin to hurt and could cause pain through a noticeable abscess tooth. Regular dental cleanings and examinations can uncover a failed root canal. X-rays taken at the time of an appointment also can allow Dr. Silberg to examine the root of the tooth to see if there are concerns that need to be addressed, and if the root canal has failed.

What Can I Do If a Root Canal Fails?

If you are feeling any of the symptoms mentioned above, please contact Dr. Silberg if you suspect your root canal has failed. Root canals normally fail if the tooth has been treated several times. Caps or crowns on the tooth often need to be replaced every 7-10 years. Dental implants are one of the best options to replace a missing tooth. We of course will consider every possible option for our patients to help you save money and ensure you receive the right treatment for your condition. Call our office to schedule a consultation to discuss your failed root canal options.

Choosing Dental Implants

Dental implants are preferable as they are a long-term solution for a missing tooth. Dental implants will help the jaw bone to stay strong as the implant bonds to the bone, encouraging the body to continue nourishing the jaw bone instead of letting it deteriorate. Dental implants have a 97 percent success rate and are one of the best treatments for patients in need of a tooth replacement. If the tooth needs to be extracted and you believe that a dental implant is the best option to restore your smile, contact Dr. Silberg to schedule a consultation. He and our staff will work with you to build a beautiful smile that includes a dental implant and crown that will match the color and look of your existing teeth.

Are you caring for your dental implants?

April 11th, 2017 by | No Comments

Caring for your new dental implants

If you recently enhanced your smile with beautiful dental implants from Dr. Silberg, it is important to properly care for them. Caring for your implants will ensure that they will be able to serve their function as replacements for your natural teeth for many years to come. Dental implants are an investment and can take up 12 months to fully complete, and while they are quite tough, implants care not invincible. They can bend, break, or become infected if they are not cared for properly. Luckily caring for your dental implants is quite similar to caring for your actual teeth. Here are some tips and tricks from the Silberg Center for Dental Science to keep a strict regiment of good oral hygiene.

What can you do to care for your implants?

  • Brush your teeth twice a day, and after meals if necessary.
  • Remember to floss your teeth twice a day as well, and if you get any food particles stuck in your teeth. Use implant specific floss or unwaxed tape to protect your implants and surrounding gums.
  • Only use floss to remove food particles from your teeth, not your fingernails, string, etc.
  • Visit the dentist regularly to check on your oral health as well as the health of your implants. Right after you your implants, it is important to go to every follow up appointment your surgeon and continue to see your dentist about twice a year.
  • Avoid abrasive toothpaste ingredients (such as baking soda), and hard-bristled toothbrushes.
  • Rinse your mouth with mouthwash twice a day.

What can happen if you don’t care for your implants?

If you don’t take care of your implants, it is possible from them to develop problems such as bleeding (otherwise known as mucositis), infections, implant looseness, etc. Improper care of your implants can eventually lead to gum or even bone loss. Bone loss is irreversible, and it may be necessary to remove the implant if the problem progresses too far.

Remember that you can achieve optimal oral health with proper care. If you have any more questions about taking care of your dental implants or any other dental questions, call us today at (412) 888-0097 and you can set up an appointment with Dr. Silberg to help keep your implants and mouth happy and healthy

Why a Single Tooth Implant is Better Than a Bridge

March 31st, 2017 by | No Comments

Losing a tooth can be embarrassing and debilitating, especially if the tooth loss occurred in a visible area. Although many people are tempted to opt for a less expensive dental bridge to fill the void, a modern single tooth implant offers a better range of benefits.Getting a single tooth implant has many benefits over dental bridges.

Missing a Tooth? Problems With Bridges

Tooth loss does more than give your smile a gapped look. When you talk and chew with your natural teeth, they stimulate the area within the socket, which helps the jawbone to stay strong and healthy. Unfortunately, when a tooth goes missing, the jaw doesn’t receive this stimulation, and the bone can start to resorb, or melt away. Over time, this bone loss can weaken the rest of the periodontal arch, putting your other teeth at risk. However, Pittsburgh dental implants recreate this natural stimulation, keeping your jaw healthy and strong, which protects your arch and your face shape.

Another problem with dental bridges is that they can put extra strain on the neighboring teeth. Because they are typically supported with a retainer or permanent metal brackets, bridges put pressure on the supporting teeth when you chew or clench your teeth. But, dental implants are independently supported, allowing the neighboring teeth to stay strong and healthy.

For these reasons, a single dental implant is better than a bridge.

Single Tooth Implant: Other Benefits

Protecting your teeth isn’t the only benefit of dental implants. Here are just a few other reasons that dentists prefer dental implants for their patients.

    • Confidence

      Because removable bridges can slip or fall out, they can make some people worried about eating certain foods during the day—especially in social settings. On the other hand, dental implants are strongly anchored into your jawbone, improving your confidence.

    • Improved Appearance

      Specialists designed dental implants to mimic the contours, color, and opacity of your natural teeth. That way, nobody will know that you’ve had dental repairs.

    • Simpler, More Effective Dental Hygiene

      Dental implants don’t need any special care other than routine brushing and flossing. This means that you can keep the rest of your teeth clean and healthy—without adding chores to your daily hygiene routine.

Talk With Your Dentist About Dental Implants Today

If you need to have a tooth replaced, make an appointment with Dr. Silberg today to talk about dental implants. Besides enjoying a beautiful, stable smile, we might surprise you with how natural dental implants feel. Schedule your complimentary consultation today.

Spring Cleaning & A New Smile

March 21st, 2017 by | No Comments

Spring Cleaning Spring has sprung and it is time once again to crack down on your spring cleaning!

Here are some tips and tricks to help spring cleaning go more smoothly this year.

Start Small

It is easy to become overwhelmed when you take an inventory of everything you need to clean in your home and in your life.  Don’t let yourself become distracted with all of the many things you could be cleaning and focus on one task at a time.  It may be helpful to start in one room of your house and then move on to the next one after that room is finished.   

Make a List

Just like everything else in life, it is easier to accomplish your to-do list if you actually make a to-do list.  Sit down and analyze what exactly you want to clean this spring.  Once you have a plan in place, it will minimize stress and make it a lot easier to tackle everything one step at a time.  

Take 10 Minutes a Day

Instead of trying to knock everything out in a day or two (and consequently exhausting yourself) take a little bit of time each day to knock something off your list.  Save the larger tasks for days that you will have more time and take care of the smaller things when time is tight.  Just make sure that you take a little bit of time every day to get things done!

Think Creatively

While it is important to clean your countertops, bathrooms, etc. try to find a few things that normally get pushed to the side to add to your spring cleaning list. Here are a few ideas:

  • Your Smile – Oral hygiene is just as important as keeping a clean house.  If you have thought about improving your smile you can schedule an appointment with your Pittsburgh Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Silberg today! From Gum Depigmentation, Crown Lengthening, and more his expertise can take your smile, and confidence to a new level! Don’t put it off any longer! 
  • Your Relationships – Many of us have toxic friends in our lives that bring us down.  It may be time to “break-up” with a few of your friends.  Don’t waste your time on people who take more than they give.  At the same time, you may have a few relationships that need a bit of TLC.  Give extra time to friends and family this spring and try to rebuild forgotten relationships.  
  • Clean Up Your Phone – Take the time to go through your phone and delete any apps you don’t use.  While you’re at it, a look at your address book and delete the numbers of people you haven’t talked to in a few years and don’t plan on talking to in the next few.  

Why a Periodontist is Best For Dental Implants

March 10th, 2017 by | No Comments

Did you know that there aren’t any laws prohibiting dentists from practicing outside of their specialty in the United States? This means that the general dentist down the street might also offer complex endodontic procedures or dental implants—even if they aren’t qualified to do so. Unfortunately, when it comes to receiving dental implants, working with the right dental professional is crucial for your long term success. Here are just a few of the reasons you should only work with a periodontist to receive dental implants.

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Extra Training

General dentists receive four years of dental school training that covers a broad range of dental techniques, including dental implants. However, this training isn’t comprehensive and may not include all of the latest information about the procedure, which is why periodontists go to school for an additional three years outside of normal dental school to hone their skills.

During their periodontal residency, periodontists work alongside certified professionals to master the art of placing implants in the safest, most aesthetically pleasing way. To become a licensed periodontist, applicants have to pass rigorous physical and written exams to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. For patients, working with a periodontist means receiving the best level of dental care and giving your implants the best chance of success.  

More Implant Placements

Since Pittsburgh implant dentists specialize in the treatment planning, placement, and maintenance of dental implants, they are simply more familiar with the procedure than dentists who only handle the procedure once in awhile. Additionally, periodontists who specialize in dental implants may have a broader range of implants, abutments, and temporary crowns in stock, helping you to maintain your comfort and appearance throughout the process.

Familiarity With Treatment Planning and Complications

When general dentists fail to place implants successfully, they typically refer patients to periodontists, which means that dental implant professionals see and treat a wide variety of complications. In addition to helping these experts to understand dental implant risks and how to prevent them, familiarity with dental implants also allows professionals to plan treatments more effectively with new patients.

Prevention of Gum Disease

During their formal training, periodontists also study gum disease control, treatment, and prevention very carefully, helping these experts to protect the rest of your natural teeth. If you have lost teeth due to prior decay or problems with gum disease, working with a periodontist might help you to prevent ongoing problems or spot issues early.

If you are interested in meeting with a periodontist to learn more about dental implants, contact the Silberg Center for Dental Science. Dr. Silberg is currently accepting new patients, and would love the chance to help you to make over your smile.

What are Mini Dental Implants?

February 27th, 2017 by | 1 Comment

Mini dental implants in Pittsburgh are a less invasive alternative to dental implants.

When compared with other tooth replacement options, dental implants offer a wide range of benefits, including helping the jaw tissue stay healthy, making it easier for people to clean their teeth, and creating a much more realistic, beautiful smile. Unfortunately, because dental implants rely on fusion between the implant itself and the surrounding bone tissue, some patients may not be eligible for traditional dental implants.

Candidacy for Dental Implants

In addition to being committed to proper oral health and understanding the timeline involved with dental implants, candidates must also have an adequate amount of healthy bone tissue for implants. The bone that will house the implants needs to be wide, deep, and healthy enough to hold implants properly. Without healthy bone tissue, implants could be prone to failure. Patients who have taken bisphosphonate medications may not be eligible for dental implants for this very reason. Medications like Boniva change the way that your body develops bone tissue, which means that you could be more at risk for serious complications if you get implants. However, minimally invasive mini dental implants in Pittsburgh may be an alternative that could work for you.

Mini Dental Implants: A Minimally Invasive Alternative

Mini dental implants function the exact same way as traditional implants, but they are much smaller to accommodate less bone tissue. For example, while traditional dental implant posts were 3.75 mm wide, mini dental implants are between 1.8 mm and 3 mm wide, as small as half the size of typical dental implants. This smaller size enables dentists to place dental implants in bone tissue that might be unusually shallow or weak due to personal anatomical differences or prior disease.

Mini dental implants are much less invasive than traditional dental implants because of their smaller size. Typically placed in sets to improve the stability of the new teeth, some mini dental implants can be installed the same day damaged teeth are removed—helping you enjoy a beautiful smile sooner. Because they require less surgery to install, mini dental implants are also less expensive than other kinds of dental implants. Also, since mini dental implants in Pittsburgh can be used as anchors for dentures, your dentist may even be able to adjust your current dentures to grip onto mini implant anchors, improving their stability.

If you are interested in receiving mini dental implants, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with Dr. Mark Silberg. As a certified periodontist with years of experience placing dental implants, Dr. Silberg can help you to enjoy the smile you’ve always dreamed of.

The Latest in Dental Implant Technology

February 13th, 2017 by | No Comments

Dental Implants today have many modern advancements.

Dental implants are the modern answer to missing teeth, capable of restoring form and function to even the most damaged smile. Invented in the mid 1950’s by a Swedish orthopedic surgeon, dental implants rely on a titanium post that fuses to the natural jaw tissue of the implant recipient. The implants are typically installed in a staged procedure, giving the patient ample amounts of time for their jaw tissue to heal and for them to perfect oral hygiene routines. Although many dentists offer dental implants, periodontists such as Dr. Mark Silberg, receive an additional three years of personalized training to place implants, allowing them to place implants effectively and monitor the healing carefully.

Dental implant technologies have continued to evolve, which is one of the reasons that modern implants have close to a 100% success rate. Here are just a few of the new technologies that have helped patients enjoy better results.

Modern Dental Implant Technologies

  • Better ImagingImaging techniques have come a long way over the past twenty years or so, with modern periodontists having access to CAT scans, detailed MRI images, and even 3D scanning. These imaging tools help dentists to plan treatment more carefully, account for minor anatomical differences, and customize treatment accordingly.
  • Powerful SoftwareModern 3D imaging software also helps doctors and patients during the treatment planning process, since software can help doctors to show patients how their new implants will look when the treatment is complete. 3D scans can also be sent electronically directly to labs, speeding prosthetic fabrication.
  • Microscopically Roughened PostsTo allow the titanium implant posts to fuse with bone tissue, modern versions are microscopically roughened to increase the surface area. These new posts allow the bone to heal faster and bond stronger, improving implant outcomes.

The Silberg Center for Dental Science: Your Dental Implant Authority

Dr. Mark Silberg has been a Pittsburgh dental implant surgeon for over 30 years and is constantly researching all of the best techniques and materials for the complex surgery. If you are wondering whether or not dental implants are right for you, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with the Silberg Center for Dental Science. With years of experience and a complete dedication to his patients, Dr. Silberg can help you to enjoy the smile of your dreams.

Dental Implants and Gum Disease

February 6th, 2017 by | No Comments

Although dental implants themselves aren’t prone to tooth decay, the tissues surrounding the implant can become inflamed and distressed due to poor dental hygiene. This condition is called peri-implantitis, and the signs include swelling, bleeding, redness, and pus formation in the gum tissue surrounding the implant. As a natural response to this stimulation, the bone tissue underneath the implant starts to resorb, which can eventually cause implant failure.

Dental Implants and Gum Disease

Peri-Implantitis: Gum Disease Surrounding An Implant

Peri-implantitis has multiple phases, just like traditional gum disease. In its initial phase, the gum tissue around the implant becomes infected or inflamed. This stage is called peri-musositis, and it is caused by excess biofilm in the mouth or too much dental cement between the implant and the post. Unfortunately, if peri-musositis is left untreated, it can progress into a deeper infection that extends clear into the jaw tissue. Over time, this infection can loosen the implant from the newly formed bone around the post, creating a loose or missing tooth.

Although this condition is rare and over 95% of dental implant surgeries are successful long term, it is crucial for patients to focus on following doctor’s orders following implant surgery. Another great way to improve your chances of long term success is by only working with a periodontist, a dental professional with an additional three years of specialized training in gum disease management and the placement of dental implants.

Improve Your Chances of Implant Success

As a periodontist who has years of experience placing dental implants in Pittsburgh, Dr. Mark Silberg understands how to protect your newly placed teeth. One of the most essential things for patients to do when they receive implants is to maintain great oral hygiene and to attend their follow-up appointments. During these appointments, Dr. Silberg will check your teeth and gums carefully for the signs of inflammation and peri-implantitis.

Since research has shown that people who have dealt with periodontal disease in the past may be at a higher risk for peri-implantitis, Dr. Silberg will make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy enough for surgery before placing the implants. Patients with prior issues will also be monitored carefully after placement to ward off problems. If there are signs of peri-implantitis, Dr. Silberg will treat the condition proactively by cleaning the area and cleansing the location with antibiotics. In rare instances, additional surgeries may be required to remove diseased tissue and improve implant adhesion. For more information about preventing peri-implantitis, make an appointment with Dr. Silberg today.

Drink Green Tea for Healthier Teeth and Gums

January 12th, 2017 by | No Comments

Periodontal disease is a worldwide epidemic, with reports showing that the sneaky disease affects more than half of all adults. In addition to allowing bacteria to leach into your bloodstream and cause a long list of systemic problems, periodontal disease can also cause bad breath, oral infections, and even tooth loss. Fortunately, a recent study has tied green tea to numerous oral health benefits.

Trying To Ward Off Gum Disease? Try Green Tea

drinking green tea prevents gum diseaseGreen tea contains the natural antioxidant catechin, which has been shown to interact with the body’s natural inflammatory response. When people have periodontal disease, their gums become inflamed due to the presence of bacteria. In addition to causing problems like swelling, redness, and tenderness, this inflammation can also cause other periodontal problems, such as gum recession. Fortunately, Green tea can help to ward off inflammation, soothing the gums.

To study the effect that green tea can have on the oral tissues, one team of researchers studied 940 Japanese men who consumed green tea daily. Their research showed that green tea helped to reduce gingival pocket depth, gum bleeding, and the loss of attachment between the teeth and the gums. Here are just a few of the other benefits green tea can have on your oral health.  

Benefits of Green Tea

Lowers Acidity of Saliva

Green tea has also been shown to lower the acidity level of saliva, which can help to ward off dental decay. By neutralizing these acids, you might be able to enjoy fewer cavities, since these acids erode dental enamel.

Protects Cells

The natural antioxidants in green tea may also ward off cell damage by slowing the progression of oral cancers.

Prevents Tooth Loss

Another Japanese study conducted in 2010 found that men and women who consumed green tea daily were less likely to lose their natural teeth.

It makes sense that a substance that helps prevent cavities and gum disease will

Naturally Hydrating

Staying hydrated is essential for warding off oral decay, because water rinses away food particles that could cause plaque and tartar buildup later. Consuming green tea is a great way to keep your mouth clean.

Schedule Your Periodontal Checkup Today

Do you need gum disease treatment in Pittsburgh? Don’t procrastinate making your appointment. The earlier gum disease is treated, the more likely you are to protect your teeth and gums. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Silberg today.