Tongue-Tied

Though you usually hear this as a metaphorical expression, there is an actual medical condition known as Tongue-Tied. The official name is Ankyloglossia and is a birth defect. Dr. Martin Urban of Martin Urban, DDS encourages parents to reach out if something seems amiss with their newborn. It’s very easy to spot right away. Your child will struggle to breastfeed, swallow, and eat. Contact our office in Waltham, MA, right away!

 

What exactly is Tongue-Tied? The frenulum is a small strand of tissue that connects the tip of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. For a tongue-tied baby, their frenulum is either too short or thick. It’s an issue that needs early intervention. Without the means to properly eat, your newborn can’t gain weight.

 

As mentioned, breastfeeding is highly difficult. Your child can’t suck out the milk or swallow it. This requires a functional tongue. Your baby will fail to thrive, refuse to eat, or bond with you. There are physical side effects too. You’ll notice issues with sleeping and digestion.

 

The nursing mother suffers negative effects too. It’s incredibly painful to breastfeed a tongue-tied infant. The nipples receive major damage, becoming severely chapped. They often experience bleeding too. In severe cases, the nipples are distorted or the ducts are blocked.

 

Your Waltham, MA, dentist recommends removing the abnormal tissue from the mouth. It is a quick procedure done with a surgical laser. Dr. Urban or a recommended surgeon can perform this. Resources are available online and in our office.

 

Martin Urban, DDS is located in Waltham, MA. If you notice your newborn struggling to thrive, contact us right away. Visit our website or call 508-425-9640.

Post-Extraction Care

It’s scary to get a tooth removed, but in reality, it’s a very straightforward process. Complications are exceedingly rare. This is because Dr. Martin Urban of Martin Urban, DDS provides you with quality post-operative care! Following these instructions guarantees a healthy and successful recovery. If you require extraction or want to learn more, contact our office in Waltham, MA.

 

You put your entire health and procedure in danger when you neglect your recovery care. It’s possible to develop a dry socket or infection. When a tooth is removed, a blood clot forms in its place. This stops the bleeding and starts the healing process. A dry socket happens when the blood clot dissolves or dislodges. This means that it’s knocked out-of-place. Follow your post-operative care and this small guide to prevent this.

 

Your body has numerous responses to an injury. One of the most common is swelling. This isn’t any different when it comes to teeth extraction. To minimize the pain, utilize ice packs. Apply these to your face in 20-25 minute intervals. Continue doing this for two whole days or until the swelling goes down. Your Waltham, MA, assures that this is a great way to combat pain. If your tooth was infected before removal, a warm compress is better suited.

 

Don’t fret at the amount of bleeding after. Your head holds a large amount of your body’s blood. Keep pressure on the removal site for a minimum of 30 minutes. Holding the gauze in place will do the trick. Some patients prefer using tea bags to gauze. This is because tea contains tannic acid, a natural clotting agent. It restricts the blood vessels to lighten the bleeding.

 

It’s important not to eat or drink for at least two hours after your surgery. You also need to rest to avoid popping your stitches. Be very gentle when engaging in any physical activity. When you do eat, make sure these are soft foods. A few common examples are pudding, ice cream, jello, and mashed potatoes. Avoid acidic drinks like soda, along with harder foods like popcorn or peanuts.

 

Following these guidelines is the best way to recover. If you have any questions or concerns before or after an extraction, contact Martin Urban, DDS. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, visit his website or call 508-425-9640.

Fluorosis

All patients are welcome at Martin Urban, DDS. Located in Waltham, MA, Dr. Martin Urban treats pediatric dental conditions. This includes the problem known as Fluorosis. This happens when a child is exposed to large amounts of fluoride. Though it isn’t harmful, it stains the teeth with white, thin streaks. With all health concerns, prevention is the key! Learn how you can stop Fluorosis in its tracks.

 

Children are the only ones who have fluorosis. This is due to it only affecting the developing teeth. Once they erupt from the gum line, children are no longer at risk. Fluoride naturally occurs in our water supply and is not a dangerous mineral. Your child requires a dental examination because it possibly indicates that they are ingesting too much fluoride.

 

The best way to deter fluorosis in children under the age of three is through breastfeeding. It provides all the nutritional sustenance that a child needs. As mentioned, we ingest the majority of our fluoride through drinking water. Most baby formulas require you add in water. This is what puts them at risk for fluorosis. There are other ways a small child develops this condition. Pay attention to how much toothpaste they are using. Your Waltham, MA, dentist recommends brushing your child’s teeth as soon as they start emerging. Yet children under the age of three shouldn’t use more than a grain of rice worth of toothpaste. Following these suggestions keep your child’s teeth healthy and happy!

 

Your child must start brushing twice daily once they reach three years old. Again, it’s important to monitor how much toothpaste they are using. It should never be more than a pea-sized amount each time. Double-check that they are spitting out the toothpaste and not swallowing it. This is also the reason that other dental products, like mouthwash, aren’t recommended for children under the age of six.

 

If you have any questions or are worried that your child has fluorosis, contact Martin Urban, DDS. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, visit his website or call 508-425-9640.

Tooth Extraction Site Preservation

Sometimes pulling teeth is a necessary procedure for overcrowding in the mouth or infection due to tooth decay. It isn’t a procedure to be taken lightly. Like wisdom teeth removal where they are located in the back of the mouth and sutures are used, the tooth extraction site essentially becomes an open wound, one that needs to be monitored and given time to heal. We at Martin Urban, DDS understand that getting a tooth pulled isn’t very fun, but we are committed to making the procedure and healing process as comfortable as we can for our patients. 

If you ever think your healing process doesn’t feel normal, you should contact your dentist. Signs of complications include:

- Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain

- Severe nausea or vomiting

- Redness, swelling, or excessive discharge from the extraction site

- Signs of infection, such as fever and chills

Something else to keep in mind when removing teeth is what to do with that open space once it has healed. If a tooth is removed and nothing is done to the extraction site, your jaw bone will degenerate and change shape while the site heals. This can create problems in your bite and may affect chewing and speaking. Make sure you and your dentist come up with a plan to fill this space.

Martin Urban, DDS practices at 976 Main St. in Waltham, MA 02453. For more information on tooth extractions or to schedule an appointment, please visit martinurbandds.com or call 508-425-9640.

 

Crown Lengthening

Do you feel like you have a “gummy” smile? In other words, are your teeth covered by excess gum tissue? We at Martin Urban, DDS are committed to helping our patients feel confident and happy with their smiles. We are excited to offer crown lengthening to bring out the fullness of your teeth!

The crown lengthening procedure involves reshaping your gum line as well as the bone around the affected tooth or teeth, creating a more balanced gum to tooth ratio. The great thing about crown lengthening is that it can be performed on as many or as little affected teeth there are in the patient’s mouth. One tooth with excess gum tissue can be reshaped or a whole gum line can be reshaped, depending on the patient.

In addition to your smile becoming more aesthetically pleasing, crown lengthening also improves the overall health of your gums. The edge of the restoration is sturdy enough to withstand brushing and flossing to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. 

Not sure if this procedure is right for you? We are happy to address any concerns or answer any questions that you have! Martin Urban, DDS is located at 976 Main St. in Waltham, MA 02453. For more information about our crown lengthening procedure or to schedule an appointment, you can visit martinurbandds.com or call 508-425-9640.

 

Senior Dental Care

At Martin Urban, DDS, we treat patients of all ages, especially senior citizens. Dr. Martin Urban of Waltham, MA, provides excellent dental care. It’s important to take good care of your teeth as you age. Older individuals are at a higher risk of oral complications, including extraction, tooth decay, and periodontal (gum) disease. Elderly patients often need more frequent visits to stay healthy. Contact our office today to set up your appointment.

 

One of the best things you can do for your mouth, especially when you’re in your golden years, is investing in an electric toothbrush. These clean your teeth while requiring minimal physical effort. This is perfect for patients who struggle with mobility. It cleans your mouth without jeopardizing your physical wellbeing.

 

We have other tips for those who struggle with physical activity. Try elongating the handle of your toothbrush. This way you can easily reach your back molars and harder areas. Look around your home for a few simple materials. Specifically, foam, rubber, or even tongue depressors. Wrap these around your toothbrush handle closer to its end. You should now have a longer toothbrush! Brushing your teeth should be much easier now.

 

If you live or take care of an older individual, your help is important too! Gently remind them to brush twice a day and floss as well. If they have problems with physical tasks, assist them. You can also offer to give them rides to their dental appointments or even schedule them for them. Your Waltham, MA, dentist knows that dental care is expensive. That’s why many communities offer public health programs for older patients. They offer discounted or even free services for senior citizens. Reach out to your local social services or public health office to learn more.

 

Martin Urban, DDS is located in Waltham, MA. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, visit our website or call 508-425-9640.

Cleaning Your Tongue

It’s a common misbelief that for a healthy mouth you should focus on your gums and teeth. In reality, cleaning your tongue is just as important! At Martin Urban, DDS, Dr. Martin Urban recommends using a tongue cleaner. These are small dental appliances that brush your tongue. Use them to remove harmful bacteria and coatings from the tongue’s surface. At our office in Waltham, MA, using these appliances improves your breath and overall dental health!

 

There’s no reason to be nervous about using a tongue scraper. It’s a quick and easy process! First, begin by placing the applicator towards the back of your tongue. Don’t put it so far back that it activates your gag reflex. Then move the device forward, scraping along the way. Rinse the device off once you reach the tip. Repeat this process multiple times until the coatings are gone.

 

It’s important to note that there are many reasons your tongue is coated. There’s no need to panic. A few examples are yeast infections, smoking, dry mouth, medications, and other oral health conditions. A tongue cleaner solves any of these problems. It removes the dangerous pathogens and dead cells from your mouth. If you notice continual or frequent coatings, especially ones that don’t seem to improve, then schedule an appointment with your Waltham, MA, dentist.

 

Besides the listed health improvements, recent studies show that tongue cleanings improve your sense of taste. You’ll notice a difference in your breath and health. Fewer bacteria lowers your risk of tooth decay.

 

Remember to always use your device with caution. It can injure your tongue if used improperly. Use the appropriate amount of force when scraping.

 

At Martin Urban, DDS, your health is our top concern. If you’re interested in learning more about cleaning your tongue, talk to our team today! We’ll provide you with any information you need. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban at our office in Waltham, MA, visit our website or call 508-425-9640.

Sealants

Our staff at Dr. Martin Urban, DDS advises our younger patients to get sealants to protect their molars. Sealants are a plastic coating on the chewing surfaces of the molar to prevent tooth decay. Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children despite being preventable. It can be difficult for children to brush their molars effectively because of their location.  Sealants help to keep their molars clean and healthy for when their permanent molars come in.

Sealants are applied with a liquid adhesive that is painted right on your tooth. The liquid then hardens and creates a barrier between your tooth and any plaque or bacteria that can be damaging to your teeth. After sealants are applied, they last for about 10 years and can be replaced when necessary.

It is important to protect your children’s molars at a young age so their permanent teeth develop smoothly and are healthy.

If you have any questions or concerns, please give us a call. To learn more about the treatment provided at the dental practice of Dr. Martin Urban, DDS, visit www.martinurbandds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, DDS in Boston, MA, call 508-425-9640 

Canker Sores

Canker sores are small, shallow ulcers that appear in your mouth and make it difficult for you to eat and talk. The cause of canker sores isn't known although stress is thought to trigger the ulcers. When possible, we encourage our patients at Dr. Martin Urban, DDS to avoid foods that have citrus and acidic. Some foods to avoid when you have an ulcer include lemons, oranges, apples, and tomatoes.

Some symptoms that you may have a canker sore include pain on your tongue or the inside of your cheeks and if you feel a burning sensation. Canker sores are circular and are usually white or gray with a red edge.

If you do get a canker sore, we encourage you to rinse your mouth out with hot salt water a couple of times a day to help with recovery. If you still have a canker sore after 1-2 weeks we advise you to make an appointment with us.

If you have any questions or concerns, please give us a call. To learn more about the treatment provided at the dental practice of Dr. Martin Urban, DDS, visit www.martinurbandds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, DDS in Boston, MA, call 508-425-9640 

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Adult teeth, by nature, are much stronger than baby teeth. That’s why children always seem to get more cavities than adults. Some parents feel that their children's oral health isn’t as important, due to the fact that baby teeth will eventually fall out. This isn’t at all true. The good dental habits taught now will be with them for the rest of their lives. Dr. Martin Urban of Waltham, MA, recommends partaking in pediatric dental care to avoid Baby Bottle Tooth Decay.

 

What exactly is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay? It’s tooth decay, also known as cavities, that can affect babies, infants, and other young children. Cavities are formed when a surplus of bacteria develop in the mouth. This is often due to sugary substances left on the teeth. Your child's bottle contains the biggest source. The American Dental Association recommends only filling bottles with breast milk, formula, or milk. Do not give your children drinks that are high in sugar like sugar-water, juice, and soft drinks. Older children should primarily drink water, as it contains fluoride. This greatly reduces the risk of developing cavities.

 

Tooth decay is also caused by moisture. Avoid giving your child access to a bottle during the night. Pacifiers are another great conduit for germs. Make sure to wash them properly. Do not dip them in substances like honey.

 

Bacteria are commonly introduced to a child by the mother. Your saliva contains harmful pathogens. Resist the need to share food, clean pacifiers with your mouth, or engage in unnecessary mouth-to-mouth contact.

 

Schedule your infant's dental appointment with Dr. Martin Urban. It’s recommended that the first dental examination be done as soon as the child gets their first tooth or turns one. Learn more by visiting our office in Waltham, MA. To schedule your appointment, visit our website or call 508-425-9640.

Pericoronitis

Extractions and gum disease are of particular interest to us at Dr. Martin Urban’s Waltham dental practice. Sometimes, extractions need to be done to prevent or combat periodontal disease, particularly in cases described as “pericoronitis.” This term describes infection of gum tissue surrounding a dental crown that is impacted.

Impacted teeth are those that are unable to fully erupt. This is a common risk with wisdom teeth, which are the largest teeth and the last to come in. There is often not enough room for them, leaving them stuck only partially erupted. In some cases, a portion of the tooth is still covered by a flap of gum tissue, which is called an operculum. The space between the operculum and the tooth becomes an ideal hiding place for bacteria, causing gum infections that can easily get out of control.

A partially-erupted tooth will likely prove difficult to clean. A patient can swish warm saltwater in their mouth as an anti-bacterial measure and can take oral antibiotics, but in the long term, oral surgery may be necessary. We may cut away an operculum, but the impacted tooth will probably continue to cause misalignment until it, too, is removed. In younger patients, it may be possible for an orthodontist to use braces to guide an impacted tooth into place after some of the gum tissue covering it has been cut away.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Bite Checks

Bite checks are a regular part of any dental health check-up. At the Waltham office of Dr. Martin Urban, where many of our patients have implants or dentures, we’re particularly concerned with ensuring that their prosthetics still fit correctly. When a tooth or jaws are out of place, pain is likely to only get worse without intervention.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is a condition affecting the joints that connect the lower jaw to the head. It may cause pain, tingling, or numbness along the jaw, neck, or shoulder muscles. TMD often exists in a vicious circle with bruxism, also known as teeth grinding. As people clench or grind their teeth in their sleep, their enamel is eroded and their teeth are pushed out of place. The pain from this can trigger more clenching, although people have also been known to grind their teeth in an unconscious effort to keep their airways open or as a way of coping with psychological stress.

Bruxism can crack teeth and deform dentures. During a dental examination, our hygienists will be able to recognize it by wear patterns in a patient’s teeth. We’ll also need patients to demonstrate how they close their teeth together and allow us to take x-rays to search for further evidence of misalignment. If a tooth or jaw is out of place, we can talk about corrective options. Patients may also need oral appliances to protect their teeth as they sleep.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Tooth Sensitivity

It’s the season of ice cream, but for people with sensitive teeth, there’s less cause to be happy about that. We at Dr. Martin Urban’s Waltham office hope that all our patients are free of dental pain. If they do suffer from sensitivity, it could be a red flag for loss of enamel.

Each natural tooth contains a nerve and blood supply. Surrounding the dental pulp is a layer of hard material called dentin, which is a yellow-grey color. Enamel is the outermost layer of a dental crown and when it is thin, dentin may be visible through it. The roots of the teeth are surrounded by a substance called cementum, which is not as hard as enamel and serves to seal the tooth to its gum pocket.

Dentin is made up of tiny tubes and easily transfers heat to or from the dental pulp. When enamel has been reduced or gum tissue has receded, there is little to shield the sensitive nerve. Although a tooth may crack under pressure, it is more common for acid caused by bacterial infection or regurgitated by the stomach to dissolve enamel and gum tissue, making a tooth more sensitive. Implanted-supported crowns don’t have this problem, but we still work to preserve patients’ natural teeth by filling in cavities after drilling away infections. Patients may also try remineralizing their enamel by using extra-fluoridated toothpaste.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Gum Disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis

It seems that every day we learn something new about the importance of gum health. As a dentist with special training in periodontics, Dr. Martin Urban is an expert in repairing and preventing gum damage. Recently, scientists found new evidence of a connection between gum disease and a certain kind of arthritis, so we wanted to make sure our patients understand why they should prioritize their gums.

Although Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is characterized by swollen joints, it is an autoimmune disorder. It occurs when the immune system attacks synovium, a joint lining tissue that shares a molecular similarity with gum tissue. Scientists have long known that people with RA are at particular risk for periodontitis and that this is not entirely due to their difficulty brushing and flossing, since gum disease symptoms tend to appear before their fingers swell up. New research has focused on how else the bacteria that cause gum disease affect the body.

Researchers found that the acid produced by some oral bacteria causes hypercitrullination, the excessive break-down of proteins. The body produces a large number of antibodies to destroy the deformed proteins, and the antibodies harm gum tissues as well as synovium. Currently, scientists are investigating whether treating gum disease can cause reduction in joint swelling. But regardless, it seems clear that it is good for patients’ joints to prevent gum disease from developing in the first place. If you’ve noticed your gums bleeding, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

The Importance of Flossing

At Dr. Martin Urban, DDS, we advise our patients to floss every day to maintain good oral hygiene. Flossing removes plaque that is hard to reach and can lead to cavities if not cleaned daily. Brushing only removes 60% of bacteria and plaque on your teeth, while flossing removes the other 40%. 

We encourage our patients to use a piece of floss that is 15 to 18 inches long in a ‘C’ shape for the best flossing job. If you have trouble flossing we recommend you to try plaque removers that allow you to floss between your teeth with one hand.

The type of floss you use isn't as important as long as you are flossing daily We caution are patients to not worry if there is blood when you are flossing, it just means your gums are inflamed because of plaque buildup.

Remember to floss daily to keep your teeth clean and healthy!

If you have any questions or concerns, please give us a call. To learn more about the treatment provided at the dental practice of Dr. Martin Urban, DDS, visit www.martinurbandds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, DDS in Boston, MA, call 508-425-9640 

Dental Phobia

At Dr. Martin Urban, DDS we want our patients who suffer from Dental Phobia to have a good experience at the dentist.  Studies have shown that about 9% to 15% of people avoid going to the dentist every year due to dental phobia. It is important to get your teeth cleaned twice a year to maintain good dental hygiene. Patients who suffer from dental phobia have a greater chance of developing gum disease and tooth decay.

To make patients feel more comfortable before their visit, our staff will discuss any concerns or fears you may have.  Some signs that you might have dental phobia include tense or nervousness, sleepless nights before the dentist, and the thought of the dentist makes you feel sick.

We encourage our patients to ask us questions before your appointment so we can make you feel more comfortable. Your concerns are our number one priority and we are happy to discuss what can help to ease your fears.

If you have any questions or concerns, please give us a call. To learn more about the treatment provided at the dental practice of Dr. Martin Urban, DDS, visit www.martinurbandds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, DDS in Boston, MA, call 508-425-9640. 

Bone Grafting

A bone graft is a dental procedure that is needed when a patients jawbone isn't able to support a dental implant or restorative device. It also repairs botched implant sites, structural damage, gum disease, and injuries. The bone graft, once placed and healed, strengthens the jaw for other procedures. Dr. Martin Urban, D.D.S. of Martin Urban DDS LLC in Waltham, offers bone grafting services.

 

An implant or replacement tooth can’t be placed if the jaw is not large enough or strong enough. With the majority of cases, this is caused by missing teeth. Teeth are needed to keep the bone and tissue strong. Without it, the jaw bone will disintegrate. An x-ray will allow us to see the state and size of the remaining bone. This lets Dr. Urban evaluate and decide if a bone graft is necessary. If so, the bone will either be taken from another area of the mouth or received from a tissue bank.

 

At the procedure, you will be placed under general anesthesia. A cut or incision will be made along the jawbone. The bone graft will be inserted and held in place using pins, plates, screws, wires, and/or cables. Upon completion, the incision will be stitched and bandaged.

 

Recovery depends on the patient's health and the size of the graft. It can take from two weeks to up to a year. Make sure to follow any post-operative instructions given by Dr. Urban and our staff. Regular appointments will make sure your recovery is on track, and allow detection of any issues.

 

If you are in need of a bone graft, contact Dr. Martin Urban, D.D.S. of Martin Ubran DDS LLC. Our office is located in Waltham, MA. To schedule an appointment, visit our website or call 508-425-9640.

 

 

Occlusal Adjustment

If you feel like your jaw is lopsided whenever you bite or close your mouth, then you might need an occlusal adjustment. Occlusal adjustments correct the alignment of the bite, correcting any and all issues you may be experiencing. Dr. Martin Urban, D.D.S. of Martin Urban DDS LLC, located in Waltham, MA., is available for a consultation. Together, you will create a treatment plan that best works for you.

 

A misalignment of the jaw can be caused by loose, shifting, crowded, or missing teeth. This keeps your mouth from closing and meeting correctly. Patients that clench or grind their teeth can find relief through occlusal adjustment too. The result of misalignment is an unevenly distributed bite that creates irregular pressure distribution in the mouth.

 

At your appointment with Dr. Urban, she will use x-ray and imaging technology to identify what areas in your mouth need adjustments. A scan of your mouth takes hundreds of pictures of your bite. It marks any irregularities, that are then made known to Dr. Urban. The adjustment procedure can then follow. The process is relatively painless with minimal discomfort. A fine filing stone is attached to a dental drill. Dr. Urban uses this upon the indicated areas. Removable mouthpieces are also used, meant to protect the teeth and relax the jaw muscles once completed.

 

If you are concerned that you have a misalignment of the jaw or need an occlusal adjustment, contact Martin Urban DDS LLC today. Dr. Martin Urban is available by appointment by visiting our website or by calling 508-425-9640.