Restoring Function & Confidence

How to prevent dry mouth while sleeping

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 03:38:00 GMT

Patients who suffer from dry mouth are not alone. Millions of patients in the United States deal with this condition at one point or another, some in a more chronic form. Saliva in the mouth is important for one’s oral health , as it helps in flushing away food particles and keeping acids and sugars from remaining on natural tooth enamel and increasing one’s risk of cavities. When dry mouth occurs, it can cause a number of issues including bad breath, increased risk of periodontal disease and cavities, and an uncomfortable feeling in the mouth.

Many patients experience dry mouth in the morning, after they awaken from a good night’s rest. So how can one prevent dry mouth while they’re sleeping? Dr. James A. Oshetski offers some recommendations to help patients combat this uncomfortable condition.

Ways to Prevent Dry Mouth Overnight

Stay hydrated by consuming water regularly throughout the day, and drinking water before bed as well
Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in the bedroom
Chew sugar-free gum or candies to increase saliva production between meals
Brush the teeth with a fluoride toothpaste
Use mouthwash that is designed for those with dry mouth (over-the-counter or prescription)
Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco
Reduce the intake of spicy or acidic foods which can make dry mouth worse
Utilize artificial saliva products prescribed by the dentist
Evaluate any regular medications you are taking to determine if dry mouth is a side effect
Maintain good oral hygiene habits including brushing and flossing after meals
Avoid the development of gum disease, which can contribute to bad breath
Talk to your primary doctor about snoring or breathing problems that occur during the night

Which Treatment is Right for Me?

Every patient is different, so we encourage patients to request an appointment at our practice to discuss their needs and find a solution that works best for their unique situation.

Are you struggling with dry mouth or other dental problems?

Connect with our team in Brunswick, ME to learn more about dry mouth and other conditions that may be impacting your oral health and confidence. Call our office at (207) 729-1159 to request an appointment.

What to expect at a routine dental visit

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 15:12:00 GMT

If you are due for a routine evaluation but are considering a new dental team for your family, connect with Dr. James A. Oshetski of Brunswick, ME. His front office team can be reached at (207) 729-1159 and is located at 14 Maine Street, Ste. #409.

Source: Dr. Marke ting

Both adults and children may experience some dental anxiety. However, fretting about what to expect during a routine dental visit will give some patients unneeded anxiety. In fact, it is reported by the CDC that approximately 40% of adults do not see their dentist regularly—and for some of this, it is due to fear of the unknown!

Patients who do not go to the dentist on a regular basis may be unaware of what is done during the routine dental visits patients should attend every six months. To maintain a healthy smile, brushing and flossing at home aren’t always enough. It is important that both children and adults seek dental evaluations on a regular basis to monitor for changes in the mouth and provide necessary dental work.

Here is what you can expect to happen during your routine dental visit:

Dental x-rays: One of the most valuable tools at a dentist’s disposal is the dental x-ray. Dental x-rays give the dentist and his team the ability to visualize what is going on underneath the gum line. It can help the dentist determine the position of developing teeth in his youngest patients while assessing the amount of bone available for dental implants for adults. X-rays assist with the diagnosis of many dental conditions.
Oral examination: During a physical examination by both the dental hygienists and the dentist, our professionals will look for signs of problems. This includes evaluating the smile for decay, pocket development, and bite alignment.
Oral cancer screenings: Oral cancer can develop anywhere in the mouth and is just as important to diagnose and treat as any other type of cancer in the body. Oral cancer screenings involve an evaluation of the mouth to look for sores that may be of concern prior to obtaining a biopsy.
Scaling and polishing: A quick, deep cleaning of the teeth is performed by the dental hygienist to remove plaque, tartar, and calculus. At the same time, certain treatments may also be applied to the teeth, including sealant application or fluoride treatment.
Home instruction: Patients are educated by our team on the best way to brush and floss the teeth for maintaining their newly cleaned smile. Patients can take this time to ask questions about their home care in between dental visits with Dr. James A. Oshetski.

Connect with Dr. James A. Oshetski Today

Ways in which dental implants can improve the smile

Fri, 15 May 2020 07:41:00 GMT

The implant itself is a titanium metal restoration that appears as a small post or hardware screw. During oral surgery, the dentist places the implant into the jaw of the bone. This stimulates a process known as osseointegration, which is the growth of natural bone around the implant to achieve a solid foundation. The way the dental implant is restored on top will vary depending on the situation.

Ways in Which Dental Implants Replace Missing Teeth

Dental implants are incredibly versatile because they can be used in several different ways. Below are the common ways in which a dentist may utilize a dental implant:

To replace a single tooth: dental implants are commonly used in replacing just a single tooth. The implant is placed where the tooth has gone missing, and the top of the implant’s abutment is covered with a full dental crown.
To replace several teeth in a row: another way in which a dentist may utilize a dental implant is to act as an anchor for a dental bridge. Dental bridges are made with crowns on each end and false teeth called pontic fused in-between. The bridges require adjacent teeth for placement. If adjacent teeth are not available, a dental implant can be utilized instead.
To anchor a full denture in place: full dentures can be problematic for some patients, never really staying in place or providing the stabilization they need to enjoy their favorite foods. In these situations, dental implants may be inserted along the dental arch and made to connect with the full denture.

Ready to Learn More About Dental Implants?

Dr. James A. Oshetski is pleased to offer Brunswick, ME area patients solutions for the smile, including the placement and restoration of dental implants. If you are interested in discovering the benefits of this treatment, we recommend calling our facility at (207) 729-1159 and visiting us for an evaluation .

Source: Dr. Marketing

Patients with missing teeth are often unsure as to the best way to restore their smile. There are various methods available, and Dr. James A. Oshetski of Brunswick, ME encourages men and women to speak to him about tooth replacement options including dental implants . Dental implants are a long-lasting and highly desirable way to replace one or more teeth within the smile.

What is a Dental Implant?

What to do about a chipped tooth

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 07:10:00 GMT

There are a few steps patients should take when it comes to handling a chipped tooth until they can get into the dental office. Patients should:

Use gauze and apply pressure to the tooth if bleeding occurs
Rinse the mouth with warm salt water to prevent infection
Take over-the-counter pain medication for serious tooth pain
Use a cold ice pack on the face to prevent swelling and reduce pain
Use sugarless chewing gum or wax paraffin, if available, to cover the broken edge to avoid cuts inside of the mouth
Eat soft foods and drink fluids until the tooth is repaired

Treatment Options

Patients in and around the area of Brunswick, ME are welcome to book a consultation visit with Dr. James A. Oshetski to discuss the benefits of cosmetic dental work. The office is located in Suite 409 at 14 Maine Street and accepting new patients. Call (207) 729-1159 to schedule an appointment.

Source: Dr. Marketing

Whether you were chewing on ice cubes or experienced trauma to the mouth, you may be putting yourself at risk for experiencing a chipped tooth. Chipped teeth are not only uncomfortable, but can leave the tooth exposed to experience an infection, cuts to the soft tissues, or other serious problems that can result in permanent removal. Instead, patients with a chipped tooth in the Brunswick, ME area should quickly contact Dr. James A. Oshetski to discuss a solution.

What To Do When a Tooth is Chipped

There are three options available when it comes to fixing a chipped tooth:

Dental bonding: minor chips may be fixed with the use of composite resin bonding. This material is shaped in placed, filed, and polished to look like natural tooth enamel. It is helpful in situations where a cosmetic repair needs to be made.
Porcelain veneers: teeth near the front of the mouth that becomes chipped may benefit from the placement of a porcelain veneer. This is a thin ceramic facing made to cover a tooth and disguise imperfections.
Dental crown: some teeth can be covered with a dental cap, or crown, to strengthen and protect the tooth while restoring the aesthetic appearance.

Fix Your Chipped Tooth Today!

Why might a patient choose a dental bridge for tooth replacement?

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 07:02:00 GMT

Source: Dr. Marketing

Dental implants. Full dentures. Partial dentures. Dental bridges. There are so many options available to patients today for restoring their smile after the extraction or loss of natural teeth. However, it can be overwhelming for some patients to decide which solution is best for their unique and individual needs. One solution that we encourage patients to consider is that of the dental bridge .

What Is A Dental Bridge?

When you think of a bridge, you might be thinking of a bridge over a body of water or over the interstate. A dental bridge works in a similar manner, “bridging the gap” left behind from a missing tooth or teeth. The bridge is made to use the adjacent teeth to hold it in place, while placing a false tooth called a pontic in-between. The pontic aligns into the area left behind from the lost tooth to complete the dental arch.

Why Choose A Dental Bridge?

There are many reasons why a Brunswick, ME area patient may replace a missing or extracted tooth with a dental bridge. For some patients, it is the most economical option for them when using benefits from their dental insurance plan. Others may want a more permanent alternative to a partial denture, which is removable and not permanent. Dental implants may not be a good solution for a patient because they might not be a candidate for treatment, especially if they have experienced bone loss with the loss of their natural tooth or teeth. Dental bridges are versatile and may be right for many of the patient who visit our practice for a solution.

How Do You Care For A Dental Bridge?

Bridges are easy to care for. They should be evaluated at each routine dental examination, and are brushed just like the existing teeth. Patients will need to learn how to floss underneath the bridge to keep food particles and bacteria from developing along the gumline.

Contact Dr. James A. Oshetski Today

While dental implants are a wonderful solution for many patients, they are not the best option for everyone. If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of a dental bridge for tooth replacement, do not hesitate to contact our practice in Brunswick, ME to discuss your needs. Call our team at (207) 729-1159 to schedule a consultation and initial evaluation at our practice.

4 cosmetic dental procedures available with Dr. James A. Oshetski

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 08:35:00 GMT

Source: Dr. Marketing

At the practice of Dr. James A. Oshetski, patients in and around the Brunswick, ME community can obtain quality care with a team of professionals. In addition to general dentistry solutions including routine evaluations, x-rays, and dental fillings, our team also provides a wide selection of cosmetic dentistry options for the smile. Cosmetic dental procedures focus on enhancing the appearance of the smile while maintaining function and purpose.

Below are the four cosmetic dental procedures patients can consider when they visit his practice:

Porcelain Veneers

Patients who have imperfections near the front of the smile may want to disguise these issues using porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are ceramic facings that are custom-made and bonded in place to change the appearance of the smile. These restorations are strictly cosmetic and are not covered by dental insurance plans.

Professional-Grade Teeth Whitening

While many drugstores offer over-the-counter whitening products to enhance natural tooth enamel, many of these fall short of providing similar results to professional-grade whitening options. Dr. James A. Oshetski is pleased to offer whitening options that exceed our patients’ expectations.

Dental Bonding

Imperfections of the smile, including gapped, broken, or stained teeth, can also be improved by using composite resin materials referred to as dental bonding. Dental bonding is a clay-like material that Dr. James A. Oshetski can mold into place over a tooth and cure using a specialized light. This material mimics the appearance of natural tooth enamel and can be completed in just one visit.

Tooth Replacement Options

Patients who have lost or extracted teeth that need to be replaced are urged to ask our team about restorative treatment options available to them. Our practice offers several solutions including the placement of dentures, dental bridges, or dental implants. In some situations, a patient who is missing all of their upper and/or lower teeth may consider combining their dentures with dental implants for better stabilization, strength, and function.

Work with our team today to enhance your smile!

Contact Dr. James A. Oshetski today to learn more about caring for the teeth and gums in Brunswick, ME. His practice can be reached at (207) 729-1159 and accepts new and existing patients interested in cosmetic dental procedures.

How are dental crowns used in general and restorative dentistry?

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 08:43:00 GMT

Source: Dr. Marketing

When patients think of a crown, they often think of kings and queens wearing a jeweled crown upon their heads. However, crowns are not just for members of royalty! Dr. James A. Oshetski of Brunswick, ME is a dental professional who also offers dental crowns!

What Is A Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a restoration that is fabricated from porcelain to cover a natural tooth. It can also help in creating a dental bridge or covering a dental implant. Dental crowns are incredibly versatile which makes them widely used in dental practices across the United States.

HowIs A Dental Crown Utilized?

There are various ways in which a dentist may use a dental crown to restore a patient’s smile:

A dental crown may be placed over a natural tooth. This is often done to offer an extra layer of protection for a tooth and to reduce the risk of damage. Large fillings or areas of damage may be repaired using a dental crown. A filling or dental bonding may address the cavity, and then a crown is bonded over the top. The crown covers all visible portions of the tooth.
A dental crown may be utilized to create a dental bridge. When teeth are missing, patients have several options to choose from to replacing their missing teeth. One or more teeth in a row can be replaced using a dental bridge, which uses false teeth fused to dental crowns on each end. The crowns are placed over the adjacent teeth for support of the entire prosthetic.
A dental crown may be used over an abutment of a dental implant to replace a single tooth. Dental implants are a popular choice for patients who have a single tooth missing from the smile. This implant is made of titanium and uses the natural jaw bone for support and strength. A dental crown rests over the dental implant to act as a false tooth and complete the dental restoration.

Request An Appointment With Dr. James A. Oshetski Today!

If you reside in or around the community of Brunswick, ME and want to speak to our team about the benefits of placing dental crowns, we welcome you to book a consultation visit with Dr. James A. Oshetski and his team. We are committed to providing this and other restorative care solutions for new and existing patients. Contact the practice, located at 14 Maine Street, Suite #409, by calling (207) 729-1159 .

How to lower your risk of oral cancer

Sun, 15 Dec 2019 15:57:00 GMT

Source: Dr. Marketing

At the practice of Dr. James A. Oshetski , patients in the Brunswick, ME area need to understand the importance of routine cleanings and evaluations at the dentist. Not only does this help patients keep their teeth clean and allow the dentist to spot problems early, it also allows for an evaluation for oral cancer. Oral cancer is a condition that can be prevented with early detection and intervention.

How To Lower Your Risk Of Oral Cancer

There are many ways in which patients can not only reduce their risk of developing oral cancer, but ways to keep the condition from getting severe without intervention in a timely manner.

Visit the dentist every six months. The American Dental Association recommends that patients of all ages visit their community dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and evaluation. At the same time, Dr. James A. Oshetski recommends that patients undergo a quick screening for oral cancer during their appointment. Oral cancer often presents itself as a growth or sore anywhere in the oral cavity, such as the tongue, the cheeks, the gums, and the throat. With a proper evaluation, patients can reduce their risks.
Live a healthy lifestyle. In the case of many cancers, it is important that patients maintain a healthy lifestyle. Patients who smoke tobacco have an increased risk of developing oral cancer, as well as those who drink regularly and heavily. By limiting these habits, you can reduce your risk of cancer.
Eat foods high in antioxidants. When you eat a healthy diet, especially one high in antioxidants, you are greatly reducing the risk of cancer in the body. It is also a great way to maintain a healthy weight, alongside regular exercise and activity.

Speak To Our Team At Implant And Restorative Dentistry To Learn More About Oral Cancer

Early detection is vital to prevention of oral cancer. Call Dr. James A. Oshetski to undergo a full evaluation and learn more about the dangers of oral cancer. The practice is located at 14 Maine Street, Ste. 409 in Brunswick, ME and can be reached at (207) 729-1159 .

How Is Periodontal Disease Detected in the Smile?

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 07:57:00 GMT

Source: Dr. Marketing

You’ve heard the dentist discuss the importance of avoiding gum disease. But what exactly is this condition and how can it impact your smile? Dr. James A. Oshetski speaks with patients in the area of Brunswick, ME about how patients can improve the health of their smile with the avoidance of gum disease .

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a soft tissue infection that is often referred to as periodontal disease. Gum disease starts in the gum tissues and can cause patients to experience signs in the earlier stages. Patients may notice that they have persistent bad breath, and that their gum bleed when they brush and floss. This is the earliest stage known as gingivitis and can be cured with immediate attention.

Patients who leave this condition without treatment will then notice continued changes in their smile. Teeth may become loose or fall out. The bone of the jaw will shrink, and gum tissue can pull away from the natural teeth. The effects of periodontal disease in the later stages, called periodontitis, can be devastating.

How Is Periodontal Disease Detected?

The first signs of periodontal disease, such as bleeding gums, is easily detected by patients when they brush and floss their teeth. This is an indication that treatment is needed. Dr. James A. Oshetski will evaluate the patient’s smile. He will determine if there is a pocket depth, which is the space between the gum tissues and the teeth. This will help him provide a proper diagnosis regarding the stage at which the disease has reached. The later the stage, the more damage can be done, and the more extensive the treatment. With early detection and diagnosis, most patients can avoid these later stages and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile for life.

Take Good Care Of Your Smile With Routine Visits With Dr. James A. Oshetski

If you live in or around the community of Brunswick, ME and are ready to speak to a professional about the benefits of detecting periodontal disease in the earliest stages, call (207) 729-1159 today. Dr. James A. Oshetski proudly accepts new patients interested in general dentistry treatments.

How professional teeth whitening with a dentist can help address staining of the teeth

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 08:20:00 GMT

Source: Dr. Marketing

The color of your smile can greatly impact its overall appearance. Dr. James A. Oshetski of Brunswick, ME is committed to providing patients with solutions that improve the aesthetics of the smile, including professional teeth whitening that lifts and cleans deep stains and surface stains.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Teeth whitening, when performed by a professional or administered by the patient per the instructions, is completely safe. It is a great way to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted, free from staining and discoloration. Using the products available at Implant and Restorative Dentistry, patients can brighten their smile up to eight shades whiter without any side effects.

What Types Of Teeth Whitening Are Available?

While there are a wide variety of whitening products available on the market today, patients often find that professional-grade products are more effective and a smarter investment than those available over-the-counter. Many of these over-the-counter products are made to be far less concentrated and strong, as they are being used without the monitoring of a dental professional. These drugstore alternatives are far less effective at improving the smile’s appearance. Instead, our team offers both in-office power bleaching and take-home whitening kits to maximize the appearance of the natural dental enamel.

Who Is A Candidate For Professional Teeth Whitening?

Dr. James A. Oshetski evaluates each patient to determine if they are appropriate candidates for brightening the smile with professional-grade products. The best candidates are those with surface stains, a healthy smile, and a smile free from restorations. Restorations including dental bridges, dental crowns, and porcelain veneers will not be impacted by the whitening products, so it is best for patients with restorations to consider having them replaced completely if they are serious about brightening their smile for the long haul!

A simple evaluation with our team helps patients decide if they are a good fit for one of our two whitening methods available.

Interested In Professional Teeth Whitening Services?

Connect with Dr. James A. Oshetski of Implant and Restorative Dentistry in Brunswick, ME to discuss the methods in which you can improve and enhance your natural smile. Call today at (207) 729-1159 and visit the practice in Suite 409 at 14 Maine Street.

Restoring Function & Confidence

How to prevent dry mouth while sleeping

Ways to Prevent Dry Mouth Overnight

Which Treatment is Right for Me? ﻿

What to expect at a routine dental visit

Connect with Dr. James A. Oshetski Today

Ways in which dental implants can improve the smile

Ways in Which Dental Implants Replace Missing Teeth

Ready to Learn More About Dental Implants?

What is a Dental Implant?

What to do about a chipped tooth

Treatment Options

What To Do When a Tooth is Chipped

Fix Your Chipped Tooth Today!

Why might a patient choose a dental bridge for tooth replacement?

What Is A Dental Bridge?

Why Choose A Dental Bridge?

How Do You Care For A Dental Bridge?

Contact Dr. James A. Oshetski Today

4 cosmetic dental procedures available with Dr. James A. Oshetski

Porcelain Veneers

Professional-Grade Teeth Whitening

Dental Bonding

Tooth Replacement Options

How are dental crowns used in general and restorative dentistry?

What Is A Dental Crown?

HowIs A Dental Crown Utilized?

Request An Appointment With Dr. James A. Oshetski Today!

How to lower your risk of oral cancer

How To Lower Your Risk Of Oral Cancer

Speak To Our Team At Implant And Restorative Dentistry To Learn More About Oral Cancer

How Is Periodontal Disease Detected in the Smile?

What Is Gum Disease?

How Is Periodontal Disease Detected?

Take Good Care Of Your Smile With Routine Visits With Dr. James A. Oshetski

How professional teeth whitening with a dentist can help address staining of the teeth

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

What Types Of Teeth Whitening Are Available?

Who Is A Candidate For Professional Teeth Whitening?

Interested In Professional Teeth Whitening Services?

Which Treatment is Right for Me?