What Can Happen If You Don’t Seek TMJ/TMD Treatment?

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When you have problems with your jaw joints, this can result in TMJ/TMD or temporomandibular joint disorders. These conditions can cause ongoing discomfort and other issues without the right care. Our dentists in Woodbridge, VA, at Niles Dental offer multiple treatment options for TMJ/TMD. Let’s explore why it’s so important to seek care!

Chronic Pain

TMJ/TMD can occur if you have a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth. This movement causes tension in your jaw muscles and strains these joints, leading to ongoing pain when left untreated.

Wear and Tear on Teeth

Teeth grinding associated with TMJ/TMD can cause your teeth to become worn and damaged. Without treatment, this can lead to tooth infections and other dental problems.

Chewing Problems

Pain from TMJ/TMD can make it hard to open and close your mouth comfortably, making it more difficult to chew and bite food.

Irritability

TMJ/TMD can cause issues with your ability to sleep. When you have a hard time getting a good night’s sleep, you may become more irritable. Seeking treatment can help you improve your mood and sleep better.

Daytime Fatigue

Sleep problems linked to TMJ/TMD can also make you feel sleepy during the day. This daytime fatigue can affect your daily life, making it more difficult to do your regular activities.

Trouble Concentrating

Untreated TMJ/TMD can cause you to have a hard time focusing and doing other cognitive tasks. Seeking treatment helps you get better rest, easing cognitive difficulties.

Schedule Treatment for TMJ/TMD Today!

Are you tired of dealing with chronic pain from this condition? We have several options to discuss with you! At Niles Dental, we offer TMJ/TMD treatment in Woodbridge, VA, including surgical and non-surgical.

 Silver Or Tooth-Colored Fillings: Which One Should I Get?

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A dental cavity can be a serious problem, but a dental filling can help. Your dentist in Woodbridge VA can help you decide which filling is right for you. In this article, we’ll go over the types of cavity fillings. Knowing the benefits of each can help you decide which type of filling is best for you.

What Is A Tooth-Colored Filling?

A tooth-colored filling, also called a composite filling, is made from composite resin material. Composite fillings are color-matched to your tooth enamel, so it’s impossible to see once it’s installed.

Tooth-colored fillings are preferred by some patients because they’re discrete, but composite fillings do not last as long as silver fillings. In addition, many dental insurance companies will not cover the cost of tooth-colored fillings. If you want a tooth-colored filling, you may need to pay for it yourself.

What Is a Silver Filling?

A silver filling, also known as an amalgam filling, is made of a combination of metals, including silver, tin, mercury, and copper. Silver fillings are silver at first but eventually darken to black. Silver fillings are less attractive than composite fillings, but they’re more durable.

Some people aren’t comfortable getting silver fillings because they contain mercury. Others prefer to avoid silver fillings because they’re less attractive than composite fillings.

Which Type of Filling Should I Get?

Your dentist can help you choose the best type of filling for you. Your dentist can help you weigh cost, durability, and appearance.

Want to know more about getting cavity fillings in Woodbridge, VA? Do you have a cavity and need a filling? Call today to make your next dental appointment.

Mother and Daughter Brushing Teeth

Top Tips to Improve Your Tooth Brushing Routine

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Toothbrushing is an art. Using techniques can help protect your dental health. If you’re not using toothbrushing best practices, your dentist in Woodbridge, VA can help. At Niles Dental, we provide toothbrushing advice to help our patients take good care of their teeth. Below are some of the tips we commonly give to patients to help them care for their teeth.

1. Time How Long You Brush

Brush your teeth for two minutes each time. Use a timer to ensure that you’re brushing for long enough.

2. Use the Right Toothbrush

Use a soft-bristle toothbrush with a toothbrush head that’s small enough to fit in your mouth. If you’re using a manual toothbrush, find a model that has an ergonomic fit. It should feel comfortable in your hands and in your mouth. If you’re using an electric toothbrush, shop around for a model that has all the features you need, including a built-in timer to help you brush for long enough.

3. Brush Every Quadrant of Your Mouth

Imagine that your mouth is divided into four quadrants: top right, top left, bottom right, and bottom left. Each quadrant needs its own attention, including the insides and outsides of your teeth. Brush each quadrant for 30 seconds.

4. Brush Gently

Brush your teeth gently. You do not need to push hard to get rid of plaque and tartar! Brushing hard can cause gum recession.

5. Get Brushing Advice from Your Dentist

Your dentist can give you more brushing advice, based on what’s happening in your mouth. If you’re missing areas of your mouth, your dentist will be able to tell. Come to your dentist twice per year for preventive dentistry in Woodbridge, VA. Call today to make an appointment.