Higley Dental Cares Blog
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It might come as a surprise, but your gums and your heart are more closely linked than they appear. Gum disease, an issue that starts in your mouth, can have ripple effects throughout your body, including your cardiovascular system. When it’s time to schedule a dental appointment in Gilbert, AZ, contact Higley Dental Care. Understanding Gum Disease Gum disease begins when plaque, a sticky buildup of bacteria, accumulates along the gumline. In its early stage, known as gingivitis, it can cause swollen, tender gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing. If it advances to periodontitis, the condition can lead to tooth loss and serious damage to the supporting bone and tissues. Why Your Heart Might Be at Risk When gum infections are present, harmful bacteria can enter the bloodstream. This can lead to widespread inflammation in the body, which is a known contributor to clogged arteries and other heart-related conditions. Some studies have even detected oral bacteria in the arteries of patients with heart disease, suggesting a potential link between oral infections and heart trouble. Overlapping Risk Factors Several lifestyle and health factors increase the chances of developing both gum and heart disease, such as smoking, poor diet, high stress levels, and chronic illnesses like diabetes. This makes good oral care a key part of overall health. Protecting Your Gums and Your Heart The best defense is regular dental care. Brushing and flossing daily, combined with routine visits to the dentist, help prevent gum disease from taking hold. If you notice bleeding, bad breath that won’t go away, or receding gums, it’s worth getting checked out. Dental Care in Gilbert, AZ At Higley Dental Care, we are here to help you take advantage of the significant impact that routine dental cleanings can have on your well-being. Our dedicated Gilbert dentist office team is committed to providing thorough and personalized care to ensure you have a great experience at our office. We invite you to schedule your next dental cleaning in Gilbert by calling 480-568-1343 to connect with our friendly staff.
If you’re wondering how often you really need to see the dentist as an adult, you’re not alone. Life gets busy, teeth don’t always hurt when something’s wrong, and it’s tempting to put off that appointment. But regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for keeping your smile healthy and avoiding expensive problems down the line. When it’s time to schedule a dental appointment in Gilbert, AZ, contact Higley Dental Care. So, How Often? Most dentists recommend that adults get a dental checkup and cleaning every six months. That said, some people may need to go more frequently depending on their oral health. If you have a history of gum disease, lots of cavities, or underlying medical issues like diabetes, your dentist may suggest visits every three to four months. What Happens at a Dental Checkup? Your visit isn’t just about getting your teeth polished. Here’s a quick breakdown of what typically happens: Examination - Your dentist (or dental hygienist) will take a close look at your teeth, gums, and mouth. They’ll check for signs of decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and other issues you might not notice on your own. X-rays - Depending on when you last had them, the dentist might take X-rays to look for hidden cavities, bone loss, or impacted teeth. Cleaning - The hygienist will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup, especially in spots your toothbrush can’t reach. Then comes polishing and flossing to leave your teeth sparkling clean. Advice and Prevention - You’ll get tips tailored to your oral health, whether it’s about flossing better, using a fluoride rinse, or watching your sugar intake. Dental Care in Gilbert, AZ At Higley Dental Care, we are here to help you take advantage of the significant impact that routine dental cleanings can have on your well-being. Our dedicated Gilbert dentist office team is committed to providing thorough and personalized care to ensure you have a great experience at our office. We invite you to schedule your next dental cleaning in Gilbert by calling 480-568-1343 to connect with our friendly staff.
If you've been told you need a root canal, you might be wondering what to expect. While the procedure has a reputation for being unpleasant, modern dentistry has made it much more comfortable than you might think. A dentist in Gilbert can help save your natural tooth and relieve pain with this common treatment. When you need a root canal procedure in Gilbert, AZ, contact Higley Dental Care. Why Do You Need a Root Canal? It is necessary to perform a root canal if the soft tissue inside your tooth, called the pulp, becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, cracks, or trauma. Without treatment, the infection can spread, causing severe pain and even tooth loss. Step-by-Step Root Canal Process Numbing the Area – Your dentist will start by applying a local anesthetic to ensure you're comfortable throughout the procedure. Creating an Opening – A small hole is drilled into the tooth to access the infected pulp. Removing the Infected Tissue – The dentist carefully removes the damaged pulp and disinfects the inside of the tooth to eliminate bacteria. Shaping and Filling the Canals – The empty canals are shaped, cleaned, and filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to prevent further infection. Sealing the Tooth – A temporary or permanent filling is placed to seal the opening. A dental crown may also be recommended for added strength and protection. What Happens After a Root Canal? You may experience mild soreness for a few days, but over-the-counter pain relievers usually help. Most people return to their normal routine quickly. A follow-up appointment will ensure the tooth is healing properly. Dental Care in Gilbert, AZ If you're experiencing tooth pain, contact a dentist in Gilbert to see if a root canal is the right solution for you. At Higley Dental Care, we take pride in being a top dentist in Gilbert, Mesa, and Chandler that can assist with all of your oral health needs. We approach dentistry with a whole-body health approach, as we know that proper oral hygiene can contribute to your overall well-being. From preventative care to improving your smile, our team looks forward to delivering an outstanding experience every time you visit our Gilbert dentist's office. Give us a call at 480-568-1343 to learn more about our comprehensive services or to schedule an appointment at your convenience.
Dental bonding is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can dramatically enhance your smile without the need for extensive treatment. Essentially, it involves applying a tooth-colored resin to your teeth to repair minor imperfections, close gaps, or even change the shape and color of your teeth. It’s a versatile solution for those looking to improve their appearance quickly and with minimal fuss. When you need dental bonding services in Gilbert, AZ, contact Higley Dental Care. A Simple, Versatile Procedure The process of dental bonding is relatively straightforward. First, your dentist will prepare the tooth by gently roughening its surface and applying a conditioning liquid. This helps the resin adhere properly. Then, a putty-like composite resin is applied to the tooth and shaped to achieve the desired look. Once the resin is in place, it is hardened using a special light, which bonds it to the tooth. Finally, the dentist will polish the bonded area to blend it seamlessly with your natural teeth, resulting in a smooth, attractive finish. Benefits of Dental Bonding One of the biggest draws of dental bonding is its affordability compared to other cosmetic treatments like veneers or crowns. It’s also a quick fix—often completed in just one visit—making it ideal if you have a busy schedule. Additionally, bonding is customizable enough to address a range of issues: repairing chips, filling in gaps, or even covering up stains. For many people, it’s a simple way to boost confidence and achieve a more polished smile without undergoing invasive procedures. Is Dental Bonding Right for You? While dental bonding offers many benefits, it may not be the perfect solution for everyone. The resin used in bonding is not as durable as other materials like porcelain, meaning it can chip or stain over time if not properly cared for. If you have significant dental issues or require a long-lasting cosmetic fix, your dentist might suggest alternative treatments. However, for minor cosmetic concerns and quick repairs, dental bonding is an excellent option. Dental Bonding in Gilbert, AZ Are you concerned about chipped teeth, small gaps, or other minor imperfections? Dental bonding may be an option to help restore your smile. At Higley Dental Care, we take pride in being a top dentist in Gilbert, Mesa, and Chandler that can assist with all of your oral health needs. We approach dentistry with a whole-body health approach, as we know that proper oral hygiene can contribute to your overall well-being. From preventative care to improving your smile, our team looks forward to delivering an outstanding experience every time you visit our Gilbert dentist's office. Give us a call at 480-568-1343 to learn more about our comprehensive services or to schedule an appointment at your convenience.
A toothache is a painful reminder that something isn’t right with your oral health. Whether it’s a dull ache or a sudden jolt of pain, figuring out the cause is the first step toward relief. Below, we break down some of the most common reasons for tooth pain and what you can do about it. When you need dental services to alleviate your tooth pain in Gilbert, AZ, contact Higley Dental Care. Cavities - The Usual Suspect Tooth decay is one of the leading causes of toothaches. When bacteria eat away at your enamel, they create tiny holes that expose sensitive nerves. If left untreated, cavities can deepen, leading to even more pain and possible infection. Regular checkups can catch cavities early, saving you from more extensive treatments. Gum Disease: More Than Just Bleeding Gums Your teeth may become more sensitive to heat or cold if your gums are inflamed or receding, which exposes your tooth roots. If you notice swollen, tender gums or persistent bad breath, you might be dealing with gum disease. A professional cleaning and improved oral care routine can help stop the problem before it worsens. Cracked or Damaged Teeth A tiny crack in your tooth might not be visible, but you’ll definitely feel it. Grinding your teeth, biting down on something hard, or even a change in temperature can trigger pain. Depending on the severity, a filling, crown, or root canal may be needed to fix the issue. Tooth Sensitivity: Hot and Cold Discomfort If your teeth hurt when sipping coffee or eating ice cream, you could have worn-down enamel or exposed roots. Using desensitizing toothpaste and avoiding overly acidic foods can help minimize discomfort. Abscessed Tooth: A Serious Problem Infections or cavities that spread to the root of the tooth can cause an abscess, causing swelling, pain, and fever. To avoid further complications, it is necessary to seek immediate dental care. What Can You Do? If you have a toothache, don’t ignore it—pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. Over-the-counter pain relievers and warm saltwater rinses may provide temporary relief, but the best solution is to see a dentist as soon as possible. Dental Care in Gilbert, AZ At Higley Dental Care, we take pride in being a top dentist in Gilbert, Mesa, and Chandler that can assist with all of your oral health needs. We approach dentistry with a whole-body health approach, as we know that proper oral hygiene can contribute to your overall well-being. From preventative care to improving your smile, our team looks forward to delivering an outstanding experience every time you visit our Gilbert dentist's office. Give us a call at 480-568-1343 to learn more about our comprehensive services or to schedule an appointment at your convenience.
