Category: general dentistry

Millennium Smiles: Not Just Dentistry in Little Elm

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Dr. Korous is doesn’t just practice dentistry in Little Elm – she’s an active member of the Little Elm community, too!

Summer Concert Series

Since Dr. Korous believes in giving back to the community, you may often see her and the staff of Millennium Smiles supporting our area nonprofits, or out and about at a variety of local events.

One of those events you can see her at is at the Little Elm Chamber of Commerce Summer Concert Series, Summer Rhythms by the Lake.

Dr. Korous and Millennium Smiles are excited to announce that once again they are a sponsor of the popular concert series, which runs every Friday night in June at Little Elm Park.

Last year was Millennium Smiles’ first year to sponsor the event, which had some of the biggest crowds in concert series’ history. Check out some great video from last year!

This year’s lineup is also expected to bring large numbers with its schedule of cover bands:

  • Friday, June 1 Infinite Journey, a Journey tribute band
  • Friday, June 8 Def Leggend, a tribute to Def Leppard
  • Friday, June 22 Walk This Way, Aerosmith Tribute
  • Friday, June 29 Hip Hop Hooray playing rap and hip-hop favorites of the 80s and 90s

You can catch Dr. Korous and the staff of Millennium Smiles at the event with giveaways and fun prizes – so be sure to stop by the Millennium Smiles booth and learn about our technologically advanced dental care practice in Little Elm at each show!

Be sure to bring a chair, cooler, and a friend!

More About Millennium Smiles Giving Back

Millennium Smiles also sponsored the Little Elm Chamber of Commerce Daddy-Daughter Dance, Breakfast with Santa, the Little Elm Police Officers’ Police Officers’ Ride for Kids and has worked with LovePacs, an organization that works to provide meals for food-insecure children in the Little Elm area.

One of Dr. Korous’ favorite community projects has been Project Smile; a contest ran by Millennium Smiles. During Project Smile, many individuals submitted their photos and personal stories about why they wanted a smile makeover. Dr. Korous had planned to pick just one winner – but was so moved by the stories she received, she chose two winners for 2018.

Watch Troy, one of our Project Smiles winners talk about his experience here!

More than Snoring: the Seriousness of Sleep Apnea

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Obstructive sleep apnea is not just about snoring loudly; sleep apnea is a serious health condition. Sleep apnea has serious adverse health impacts, including an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure. Sleep apnea sufferers are at risk of developing migraines, TMJD, and even diabetes. Sleep apnea patients may also be at risk of developing cognitive problems and dementia, according to a new study from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Nursing.

A Study of Sleep Apnea

The UCLA researchers examined the brain scans and health records of individuals living with obstructive sleep apnea who were not under treatment for the condition and compared them to the brain scans of people who did not have sleep apnea. Their analysis found that those individuals living with sleep apnea had evidence of thinning of the cerebral cortex thickness – the part of the brain that plays an essential part in memory, perception, cognition, and consciousness.

They also found that women living with untreated obstructive sleep apnea had greater rates of cerebral cortex thinning than men with untreated sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea affects over 22 million Americans and many more are living with the condition undiagnosed.

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea Exactly?

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes blocked. For many individuals, this occurs when the tongue falls back and blocks the airway during sleep. When the airway becomes blocked, patients are often jolted awake, gasping for breath. This situation can happen 30 to even 100+ times a night, depending on severity.

But What Does Dentistry Have to Do with Sleep Apnea?

We know it sounds strange for Dr. Korous to be talking about sleep apnea, but dentistry and sleep apnea are often related. For some individuals, dentistry can help sleep apnea by repositioning the jaw.

Here’s how: if the position of the jaw is set too far back, the tongue collapses into the airway when the patient is relaxed during sleep, and the airway becomes blocked. By situating the jaw in a more forward position using a custom-fitted dental appliance, the tongue will not fall and block the airway.

The result is a more restful night’s sleep, reduced blood pressure and a lowered risk of developing serious health complications like cognition problems because of sleep apnea.

For more information about the risks of obstructive sleep apnea and how our Frisco dental office can help, contact Millennium Smiles by calling 972-987-4899.

 

 

 

Time to Say Goodbye to Silver Fillings?

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For decades, the most common material used to fill cavities was a material known as dental amalgam. You might know amalgam as silver fillings. In the last few years, however, many dentists, including Dr. Korous, have made a shift away from using dental amalgam material to using resin or composite fillings. Why the change?

What Is Dental Amalgam?

Dental amalgam is a material that is made up of a combination of several types of metal including silver, tin, mercury, and copper.

Why Are Dentists Shifting Away from Dental Amalgam?

There are several reasons why some dentists are shifting away from using dental amalgam or silver fillings, such as:

Aesthetics. Dental amalgam is silver in color, which makes it very detectable in the mouth. Some individuals are very self-conscious about their dental fillings being so noticeable, and as a result, hide their smile or their mouth when they talk. Instead of using noticeable silver amalgam, Millennium Smiles uses tooth-colored resins or composite materials for fillings that blend with the tooth enamel, making fillings virtually undetectable in the mouth and smile.

Function. Another reason that dentists are choosing to move away from amalgam fillings is that amalgam does not form a tight bond with tooth enamel. Without a tight bond, decay-causing bacteria can get under the filling, and over time, leads to further damage below the restoration. This leaves you at risk for more cavities, pain, root canals and even tooth loss.

In contrast, more modern restoration materials like those used by Millennium Smiles can bond tightly to the tooth enamel, sealing out bacteria and protecting your oral and overall health.

Potential Health Risks. From the very beginning of their use, there has been a concern over the using dental amalgam material to fill the cavities. This concern is because they contain mercury, a toxic substance that has connections to the development of chronic and acute illnesses that affect the nervous, digestive and immune systems, lungs, and kidneys. The concern is so significant that many countries are banning the use of mercury in dental restorations.

Should I Replace My Dental Amalgam Fillings?

Replacing your dental amalgam fillings is a very personal decision, but the first thing Dr. Korous suggests is that you have your fillings checked to determine if they are broken, fractured, leaking or have any other defect. If you have dental fillings that are not in good condition, we do suggest that you have them removed and replaced with more modern restoration materials. Some studies suggest that having eight or more amalgam fillings is detrimental to your health.

Want to learn more about modern dentistry, our superior technology and 3D imaging, modern filling materials, or to have your silver amalgam fillings replaced? Call Millennium Smiles today at 972-87-4899 to schedule your appointment.

Mind Your Mouthguard

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April is National Facial Protection Month, and this means that March is a great time to talk about not only making sure you or your child wear a mouthguard for sports, but it is also time to talk about cleaning your mouthguard.

Why Is Wearing a Mouthguard Important?

Wearing a mouthguard in sports is important because it can protect your teeth from damaging impacts. Each year, dentists across the country see patients in pain from taking a blow, hit or ball to the face. Dr. Korous does not want to see this happen to you. So, pack your mouthguard along with the rest of your gear and be sure to put it on before heading into the game.

Now, Let’s Talk About Cleaning Your Mouthguard

Wearing a mouthguard can protect your teeth and mouth from damage, but cleaning your mouthguard helps to protect your teeth and mouth in another way: from bacteria. Think about it, you eat a snack before the game and don’t a chance to brush your teeth (which decay-causing bacteria love), then you put in your mouthguard.

Those decay-causing bacteria transfer to your mouthguard. After the game, when you toss your mouthguard into its case or your locker, the bacteria get a chance to grow in a dark environment. Then, the next time you put your mouthguard in, you’re exposed to more bacteria.

Sounds yucky, right? That’s because it is!

Take the time to brush your teeth whenever possible before wearing your mouthguard and spend a few minutes after your game or practice sanitizing your mouthguard to protect from illness or tooth decay.

Dr. Korous recommends that you:

  • Rinse your mouthguard immediately after wearing with warm water
  • Brush your mouthguard with a toothbrush to remove bacteria, saliva and food particles
  • Let your mouthguard dry thoroughly on a clean surface
  • Once your mouthguard is completely dry, store it in a case
  • Deep clean your mouthguard regularly by soaking it in over-the-counter denture cleaner or a hydrogen peroxide and vinegar mix for 30 minutes. Let dry completely after deep cleaning

Dr. Korous also recommends cleaning your mouthguard case regularly, too.

Finally, NEVER share your mouthguard with anyone else!

Learn more about taking care of your mouthguard and your teeth by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Korous today by calling 972-987-4899.

Eight Tips to Reduce Dental Fear

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Are you putting off a trip to the dentist because you suffer from dental anxiety or dental phobia? You’re not alone. Dental anxiety and fear are very common, and it is estimated that between 9-15 percent of Americans avoid going to the dentist out of fear. At Millennium Smiles, we understand dental anxiety and work hard to put our patients at ease.

Why Do People Avoid the Dentist?

No one is born hating going to the dentist. Many people develop dental anxiety or dental fear because of a bad experience as an adult or child. Some individuals are also very sensitive to the sounds, smells, and textures of a dental office. Others are just afraid the procedures are going to hurt (no one wants to ever think about a drill or needle coming at them!). Still, others are merely embarrassed at the state of their dental health.

What Ever Your Reason

No matter what your reason is for avoiding your checkup, it is important to remember that regular checkups and cleanings are essential because it allows Dr. Korous the opportunity to check the health of your teeth, gums and mouth. In some instances, if caught early, tooth decay and gum disease can be treated and even reversed.

Checkups also give you the chance to have your teeth cleaned thoroughly to remove built-up dental plaque that your brush cannot remove.

Regular visits to the dentist keep your teeth healthy.

Eight Tips from Millennium Smiles to Reduce Your Dental Anxiety or Dental Fear

1. Let us know. If you know you have dental fear or anxiety, we can be prepared to treat you with these considerations in mind. We will be more than happy to sit and talk about your previous experience, explain what to expect when you come in, and find out anything that we can do to make you more comfortable.

2. Take a tour. Get to know Millennium Smiles, our staff and how we practice by taking a trip to the office for a tour before your appointment. You will find that we practice very modern dentistry, which means gentler treatments in a comfortable environment. Our office is designed to soothe patients, and we feature amenities like snacks, coffee, massage chairs, hot towels and much more to make you feel at home.

3. Get some sleep. Before you come in for your first appointment, get a good night’s sleep. Avoid caffeinated beverages, as they may make you edgier and keep you away.

4. Schedule your appointment early. If you can, schedule your appointment first thing in the morning, so you do not stress out all day worrying about your visit or change your mind about coming in. You can do this!

5. Work out a signal. Talk to Dr. Korous about a signal that she can recognize if you need a break during your cleaning or dental procedure. Most patients simply raise their left hand, signaling Dr. Korous that they need a breather.

6. Speaking of breathing. Practice relaxation techniques of controlled breathing in through the nose and out through the nose. Taking a big breath, holding, and slowly releasing it can also help.

7. Still stressed? Ask about sedation methods. If you’re still having trouble relaxing during your visit, ask Dr. Korous about available sedation methods such as nitrous oxide. We also offers a warm, relaxing environment with music, LED lighting, and warm towel treatment after each treatment.

8. Stay on schedule. We recognize that you may not love going to the dentist, but we strive to make your experience comfortable and pleasant. Scheduling regular appointments can help you become more comfortable with cleanings and procedures.

Do you suffer from dental fear or dental anxiety? We can help. Call us today at 972-987-4899.

The Benefits of A Healthy Smile

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Good oral hygiene is about much more than enjoying a bright, white smile. Maintaining your oral health will also prevent major dental concerns and helps to avoid other overall health issues.

Promoting great oral hygiene begins with proper tooth brushing and flossing. These are two important daily steps to keep your mouth clean and reduce the chances of tooth decay. Brushing your teeth at least twice and flossing at least once a day, you will remove bacteria that may cause larger dental concerns. Gingivitis, or gum disease, may result without daily cleaning. Your Frisco family dentist at Millennium Smiles will be able to assist you in learning how to effectively brush and floss at home.

Visiting Millennium Smiles at least twice a year for routine preventive dental care is also important for maintaining good oral health. When you visit regularly, we can monitor your dental health and treat developing problems early- before permanent damage occurs!

Preventing cavities, gum disease and even tooth loss are widely known benefits of visiting the dentist regularly. Additionally, routine dentist visits will boost your overall health. Taking care of your teeth is about more than just a healthy smile- scientific research has found many links between oral health and overall health.

There is a connection between your oral health and cardiovascular conditions. Poor oral health will increase your likelihood of developing gum disease, which can be linked to developing heart disease due to higher levels of bacteria in the mouth and body. Poor oral hygiene is also connected increased risk of heart conditions that include strokes and heart attacks. Advanced gum disease can also increase the severity of systemic disease such as diabetes, making it more difficult to manage.

At Millennium Smiles, we are dedicated to helping you enjoy a healthy smile- and your best quality of life! If you have been away from the dentist or are looking for a new Frisco or Little Elm area family dentist, we are accepting new patients.

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