Tag: general dentistry

Is It An Emergency? Part 1

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Do you think you are having a dental emergency, but you’re not entirely sure? Don’t worry; we are here to help! If you’re not sure if something is severe enough to warrant a dental visit, we are always just a phone call away. But, in the meantime, here are a few situations that definitely warrant a call to our office. This is the first of a two-part blog on dental emergencies and what to do when you have one!

If your face is swollen, call us. Unexplained swelling of the face means that you could have an infection in the tooth, bone infection, or gum infection that requires professional treatment (and likely antibiotics).

If your tooth is knocked, call us. Having a tooth knocked out warrants a call to us immediately. If you’ve lost a tooth and can locate it, pick it up by the crown (the part of the tooth you bite with), put it in a cup of saliva and come on in. Read how to handle if your child knocks out a tooth.

If you have a cracked, broken, or chipped a tooth, call us. If you’ve experienced damage to a tooth such as a crack, chip, or total fracture, you’re going to need a dental crown to hold your tooth -together so you can use it as you usually would.

If your mouth is bleeding, call us. If you have unexplained bleeding from the mouth (as in, you are not injured), we suggest coming in for a checkup. If you see bleeding when brushing or flossing, you could have gingivitis or periodontal disease. If you see blood in your saliva even when not brushing or flossing, you should be checked for oral cancer.

If you have a yellow, red, clear, or a whitish-looking pimple on your gum, call us. This means you could have an abscessed tooth or gum infection. Treatments for this situation could range from root canal to extraction, and most likely antibiotics.

If you’re experiencing any of these situations, pain, or discomfort, call Millennium Smiles at 972-987-4899 to get an appointment as soon as possible.

Drinking Enough Water?

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Do you drink enough water? No, really. Do you try to get as many ounces per day as you can, or do you drink a little here and there? If you’re not getting enough, you could be dehydrated – which can cause stress on every cell, organ, and system of your body – including your mouth. Dry mouth affects everyone at some point in their life, and the majority of dry mouth cases are because individuals are just not drinking enough. If you’re not getting enough water and have the chronic feeling of cotton mouth, you are at risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease.

What Are the Symptoms of Dry Mouth?

Well, the first symptom of dry mouth is feeling thirsty, a dry, sticky feeling in the mouth, burning or tingling in the mouth or tongue and chapped lips that won’t seem to go away no matter how much you moisturize. Additionally, chronic dry mouth can cause bad breath and even difficulty swallowing, speaking, and chewing.

If dry mouth persists, it can even alter how food tastes.

The Risks of Dry Mouth

Like we mentioned, chronic dry mouth can leave you at risk of tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease because saliva has a critical role in the health of your mouth; it contains the minerals you need to fortify your teeth against enamel erosion and also helps to wash away bacteria and sticky plaque.

What Can Be Done to Prevent Dry Mouth?

The first thing you can do is drink enough water. A good rule of -thumb is to divide your weight in half to get the target number of ounces you should consume each day.

Chew sugar-free gum. Gum helps to keep the production of saliva going. Select a brand with Xylitol instead of sugar.

Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption. These substances cause further dehydration.

Practice good oral hygiene. This will keep your mouth healthy despite dry conditions.

Talk to Dr. Korous. There may be mouth rinses or mouthwashes available to alleviate uncomfortable symptoms.

Do you struggle with chronic dry mouth? Let Dr. Korous know! Call us today at 972-987-4899 to make an appointment to talk about it.

The Power of PRP

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You may have heard of PRP, aka platelet-rich plasma, for facials, hair restoration, and joint repair, but did you know PRP is increasing in popularity in dentistry, too?

It’s true. This powerful substance is full of growth factors, antibodies, and healing power. Millennium Smiles uses PRP in patients after tooth extractions to speed healing and reduce the risk of infection and dry sockets. Learn more about PRP in this blog.

What Exactly Is PRP?

Image of PRP before being during dental extraction.

PRP is the plasma byproduct of blood rich in platelets, the tiny blood cells that play a big role in clotting. PRP has been used for years in a variety of hospital settings, but only recently, has become more mainstream for cosmetic, regenerative medicine, and dental uses.

PRP’s popularity and availability have increased in recent years because new technology allows for the easy harvest of platelets from just a few vials of blood.

Why Is PRP So Beneficial After Extractions?

PRP has some significant benefits. For one, it allows the body to use its natural healing power. It also speeds up healing, because the growth factors and antibodies found in PRP signal the body to send blood, oxygen and other nutrients to the wound site. PRP also tells the stem cells in the area of the wound to wake up and start regenerating into new tissue. In fact, within just 30 minutes after an extraction, blood vessels and cells are growing into a web-like structure in the wound to protect the jaw bone from being exposed.

Another reason that PRP is so beneficial after dental extractions is that PRP also contains BMP or bone morphogenic protein. BMP plays a critical role in forming new bone tissue, which helps to keep the area of the extraction in good health and can potentially mean patients can skip bone grafts if their jaw is healthy enough to accommodate a dental implant.

Other Benefits of PRP

It’s safe. PRP comes directly from the patient’s own blood, and therefore cannot transmit disease or be rejected by the immune system.

It’s convenient. There is no need to go to a laboratory or hospital to have your PRP generated. Dr. Korous has the state-of-the-art technology to take a small amount of your blood and process it into PRP in the office in about 20 minutes.

It’s powerful. PRP can speed up healing time and heal tissues quickly compared to conventional membrane usage in dental extractions.

For more information about PRP and its benefits, call Millennium Smiles at 972-987-4899.

Use Your HSA Accumulated Funds Before the End of the Year!

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Do you have a health savings account? If so, you’re probably thinking of the ways you to use the funds you have built up in your account before the end of the year. Did you know that you can use your HSA dollars for dental procedures? The IRS allows individuals with HSA accounts to use their funds to pay for “the prevention and alleviation of dental disease”. Don’t put off using your HSA, call Millennium Smiles today to make an appointment!

What Does Preventive Treatment Mean?

Preventative treatment includes procedures such as teeth cleaning, X-rays, sealants and fluoride treatments. These procedures are designed to prevent tooth decay and cavities.

What Is the Alleviation of Dental Disease?

These treatments include fillings to treat cavities and tooth decay, and include treatments such as:

Fillings: Fillings are a common dental procedure to replace cavities after Dr. Korous has removed decayed enamel and dentin.
Root canals: Root canals are treatments that remove infected tooth roots to stop the infection from spreading and prevent tooth loss.
Extractions: In some cases, extraction is necessary to remove a tooth severely damaged by tooth decay or injury.
Crowns: Crowns are a permanent dental procedure designed to repair damaged, broken or cracked teeth.
Bonding: Dental bonding is also covered. Bonding uses a resin to repair cracked or chipped teeth. The resin is sealed with ultraviolet light.
Dentures: Dentures are removable, artificial teeth. Both full and partial dentures are covered with HSA funds.

What Treatments Are Exempt from HSA Spending?

Cosmetic dental treatments, such as tooth whitening, are not covered by an HSA but may be covered an FSA (also known as a Flexible Spending Account). We suggest that you consult your plan for details before spending any funds. Another critical point to remember is that expenses are eligible under your HSA as long as they cannot be reimbursed by your insurance or another source.
We also recommend that you save all of your receipts for qualified expenses.

HSA dollars cannot be spent on dental products such as toothbrushes, toothpaste or dental floss.

Do you have questions about HSA spending with Millennium Smiles? Call us today at 972-987-4899 for more information.

Whiter and Brighter Smiles in 2017

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Are you looking for an effective way to improve your smile and boost your confidence? Professional teeth whitening can take years off of your smile by brightening and whitening your teeth. Frisco cosmetic dentist Dr. Dunia Korous offers customized take home or in-office teeth whitening treatments for your convenience.

Teeth Whitening Frisco, TX

Teeth whitening is an economical, quick and virtually pain-free dental treatment for the cosmetic improvement of your smile. Professional teeth whitening systems offer superior results in comparison to over the counter options. For a cost-effective smile makeover, more patients ask for teeth whitening treatments than any other cosmetic procedure.

Our Frisco dentist office implements only the latest in dental technology and materials so you may enjoy your optimal oral health. Millennium Smiles teeth whitening options use professional grade materials that are custom fit to your smile. Custom-fit trays help to reduce irritation to gums and will help to minimize tooth sensitivity often associated with teeth whitening treatment. Our professional teeth whitening procedures will distribute the bleaching agent to your teeth for an even, bright, white smile.

Maintain Your Smile

Help maintain your new smile by avoiding tooth staining substances. Coffee, wine, tea, and tobacco can all reverse the effects of teeth whitening. Using these substances in moderation can help to keep your teeth whiter for longer.

Whitening your teeth can make your smile appear younger, and help you feel more confident in social and professional settings. Sharing your confident smile more often can help improve your quality of life and may even help you live longer! Some studies show that smiling more often can increase your life by up to seven years.

Schedule Your Appointment

Dr. Korous approaches dentistry with compassionate quality dental care for her patients’ optimal oral health. Each visit to Millennium Smiles begins with an individualized and comprehensive oral health exam in order to address the root of your dental concerns. Dr. Korous will help you build a healthy oral foundation for a life long beautiful and functional smile. Contact our Frisco dental office to find out how Dr. Korous and our compassionate dental care team can help restore your smile.

Can Diabetes Impact Oral Health?

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Diabetes is a growing medical concern in the United States. Many people understand the impact diabetes can make on your blood sugar and body. But did you know that it can affect your oral health as well?

Frisco dentist Dr. Dunia Korous at Millennium Smiles always strives to provide her patients with their healthiest smile. Understanding the effects diabetes may have on your oral health can encourage patients to be proactive in their oral hygiene so they may enjoy their best overall health.

Gum Disease and Diabetes

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the gums. Many patients will experience gum disease to some degree in their adulthood. Gum disease is linked to serious health conditions, and should not be left untreated. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth and even bone loss. Studies have recently shown a link between out of control blood sugar levels and an increased risk of gum disease. Patients with diabetes are more likely to develop advanced gum disease, or periodontal disease and risk tooth loss.

Gum Disease Treatment Options Frisco, TX

If you have diabetes, doing your best to keep your blood sugar stable may help decrease your risk of developing advanced gum disease. Dr. Korous also offers a wide range of dental treatments for gum disease. Highly experienced in periodontal therapy, Dr. Korous can help you determine a conservative and effective treatment plan for your unique oral health needs.

Dry Mouth and Diabetes

Dry mouth is caused when your body is not making enough saliva. Saliva helps to monitor bacteria and plaque in your mouth. Saliva works to remove debris from between your teeth and is essential in maintaining oral health. Dry mouth can be associated with a higher risk of developing tooth decay and cavities. High blood sugar levels and certain prescription medications are common causes of dry mouth.

Dry Mouth Treatment Option Frisco, TX

Chewing sugar-free gum can help stimulate saliva production. Also, make sure to drink plenty of water and never wait until you’re thirsty to do so. Carry a water bottle with you and drink plenty of water throughout the day. Diabetes can increase the sugar levels in your saliva and water may help to dilute the extra sugar and keep it from building up as plaque in your teeth.

Schedule A Dentist Office Appointment Frisco, TX

If you have diabetes, regular visits to and professional dental cleanings by Dr. Korous’ Frisco dental office can help to keep your oral health in check. Frequent dentist office visits can aid in early diagnosis of any advanced dental health concerns. Dr. Korous’ attentive and compassionate dental care can help to keep your smile healthy and beautiful.

Fix Crooked Teeth- Without Braces!

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Crooked teeth are more than a cosmetic dental concern. Did you know that crooked teeth can cause serious dental health concerns? Crooked teeth can lead to dysfunction in the jaw and bite, and can make it difficult to properly clean your teeth. Crooked teeth can be a leading factor in causing tooth decay, gum disease, and TMJ. If the stigma of adult braces is holding you back from straightening your smile, Dr. Korous at Millennium Smiles in Little Elm offers cosmetic alternatives to braces that may be right for you.

Dr. Dunia Korous, a highly trained and experienced cosmetic and restorative dentist, will spend one-on-one time with each patient to build an individualized dental treatment plan. After a comprehensive oral health exam, Dr. Korous can advise you on what treatment options are best for you unique dental health concerns. If your teeth are severely crooked, braces may be your best option. In less severe cases, we may be able to straighten your smile with leading cosmetic dentistry techniques and advanced technology. Dr. Korous will discuss and educate you on all of your options, so you can make the most suitable, well-informed decision.

Cosmetic Dentistry Options

ntal Bonding
Completed in one single visit to our dentist office, Dr. Korous applies a tooth-colored resin directly to your teeth. She then sculpts the biocompatible composite material into the desired tooth shape. With the use of a painless, special light, the form is bonded to the natural tooth. Offering a long-term and natural appearance, dental bonding can offer the appearance of straight teeth.

Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are an aesthetically pleasing and an effective way of straightening teeth without braces. Dr. Korous uses the most advanced materials and technology to give you a natural-looking smile with veneers. An ultrathin clear ceramic material is applied to the front and sides of the teeth creating a permanent and long-lasting solution to crooked teeth.
Invisalign®
Virtually unnoticeable, this removable braces alternative can create a straight smile without the discomfort of traditional metal braces. Dr. Korous will take molds of your teeth to create a series of retainers that will gradually straighten your teeth. Using state of the art Invisalign software Dr. Korous is able to more accurately and precisely straighten your teeth.

Schedule An Appointment

To find the right path to your straightest, healthiest smile, contact Dr. Korous today. Call our Little Elm dental office, or schedule an appointment online.

Take Years Off Your Smile

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Providing results that meet all of your expectations, porcelain veneers can take years of damage and tooth staining off of your smile with comfortable, durable and natural looking results. Porcelain veneers can be used to improve misshapen or chipped teeth, fix gaps, and cover stained or discolored teeth. They are great for a subtle smile makeover that will last for many years.

High Quality Veneers

It’s important to choose an experienced and highly trained cosmetic dentist who understands the subtleties and needs of your individual cosmetic goals and desires. Frisco cosmetic dentist Dr. Dunia Korous will work with you to ensure you’re investing your time and money in the right procedure. At Millennium Smiles, we only use the highest quality materials, and in just two to three visits to our Frisco office, you can boost your confidence with a more vibrant and youthful smile.

Will You Be Able To Tell I have Veneers?

Porcelain Veneers are made of high quality, ultra-thin ceramic. Due to the reflective properties of the material, light reflects off of them just like a natural tooth. Porcelain veneers are custom fit to your mouth based on the shape, color and fit of your unique smile. Veneers are considered a permanent restoration that will last for many years. When installed by a highly trained and experienced cosmetic dentist, it is nearly impossible to differentiate between porcelain veneers and and natural teeth.

At Millennium Smiles, every patient receives attentive, personalized care from Dr. Korous so that they are able to build a cosmetic dental plan that fits their budget and fulfills their dreams of a perfect smile.

Schedule A Consultation

Ready to learn more about what cosmetic dentistry and porcelain veneers can do for you and your smile?
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Korous to find out more about porcelain veneers, and how they can transform your smile! Call our Frisco dentist office or request an appointment online.

Chew Gum To Save Your Teeth!

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It’s true! Chewing gum- the right kind of gum- can actually help to prevent tooth decay! Contrary to popular belief chewing gum has been approved by the ADA can be beneficial in the fight against cavities. Talk to Dr. Kourous at your next visit to our Little Elm dental office to find out which sugar-free gum is recommended for helping to keep your teeth clean! Forget what mom always told you, go ahead and chew that gum!

Why?

Chewing gum after eating helps increase the flow of saliva which washes away cavity creating particles and bacteria that could buildup on and between your teeth. Increased saliva flow also carries calcium and phosphate that help strengthen tooth enamel. Stronger tooth enamel and less build up mean fewer cavities and healthier teeth!

What?

Make sure that the gum is sugar-free! Sugared gums increase saliva flow, but the excess amounts of sugar are still detrimental to your oral health. Sugar actually promotes plaque bacteria build up. Oral bacteria feed on the sugar, helping it multiply faster. Check gum packages for the ADA seal, then you’ll know you are chewing the best gum for your dental hygiene. All gums with the ADA seal contain artificial sweeteners that do not promote cavity causing agents. The ADA seal is the only way you can be assured the gum is sugar-free and will help, not hurt your healthy smile.

When?

Chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after eating has been clinically tested and proven to help prevent tooth decay. However, never let chewing gum replace your regular oral hygiene routine. Chewing sugarless gum should be used intermittently in your dental health regimen as an additional way to help maintain oral hygiene. Chewing gum cannot replace brushing, flossing, or your regular visits to the dentist.

So treat your “sweet tooth” to some ADA certified sugar free gum! If you have any questions about the benefits of gum, schedule an appointment with your Millennium Smiles dentist. It is always recommended to consult with your Millennium Smiles dentist before starting any new dental care regimen.

Schedule a Visit to Millennium Smiles Dentist

Regular visits with your Millennium Smiles family dentist are the best way to maintain your oral health and catch serious oral health concerns early to avoid complex procedures. For routine dental care, schedule an appointment with Millennium Smiles in Frisco, TX. We serve Frisco, Little Elm, and many local communities with comprehensive family and cosmetic dental care.

Back To School With A Healthy Smile

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When was your child’s last dental visit?

“Back to school” is a great time to evaluate your child’s dental health and come in for a routine check up in our Frisco dentist office. At Millennium Smiles, we offer the range of dental services your family needs in a warm, caring environment. Our dentists and staff make every effort to ensure that all members of your family feel calm, relaxed and comfortable during any treatment they receive.

Children’s Dental Care in Little Elm

We recommend that young children begin visiting with us as soon as their primary teeth begin to erupt. This is a change from the previous recommendation of around the age of three; after the primary teeth have finished erupting. Earlier visits allow us to better monitor the development of your child’s teeth and their overall oral health. Even primary teeth can develop decay or become damaged and prompt and appropriate treatment plays a role in ensuring that the permanent teeth develop correctly.

Your child’s dental health is important– keeping their teeth and gums clean, healthy and protected will help them enjoy the many benefits of a lasting smile. We offer dental sealants, fluoride treatments, and custom sports mouth guards to meet all of your child’s oral health needs. Regular visits with us allow your dentist to make appropriate recommendations for any dental treatments necessary to address concerns about the bite, tooth placement or possible damage to your child’s teeth as a result of lifestyle habits. Our staff makes personalized oral hygiene recommendations and teaches proper brushing and flossing to help young patients maintain their smile between visits- and develop healthy habits.

Make routine preventive dental care a part of your back to school checklist- and lay the foundation for your child’s long-term dental health.

Looking for a family dentist in Frisco, Little Elm, or other local communities? We welcome new patients of all ages and look forward to getting to know them, understand their unique concerns and help them achieve a healthy smile they feel good about. Contact us today at 972-987-4899 to schedule your appointment.

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