Downtown Family Dentistry of Leesburg Blog

Mending Mouths: 4 Tips to Remedy Denture Sores

January 8, 2024

Woman holding dentures in two fingers

Dentures are the tried-and-true method for refurbishing smiles after tooth loss because they restore so much of your ability to eat and speak like you used to. If you’ve only recently been fitted for them, though, you might be unpleasantly surprised to find that you’ve developed some sores and irritation along your gums. Though not ideal, it’s normal for your mouth to react this way while you’re adjusting to your new prosthetic teeth. Fortunately, there are things you can do to relieve and repair these abrasions. Keep reading to learn about 4 tips that can help!

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In Living Color: How Dentists Color-Match Dental Crowns

December 15, 2023

A dentist working on coloring a dental crown

Dental crowns may look like little white pieces of ceramic, but if you look closely, they’re actually colorized! This is done so that the finished crown seamlessly blends with your natural teeth. You may be wondering how dentists can match the colors so closely. It’s a delicate process, but the results speak for themselves.

If you want to learn how dentists color match dental crowns, continue reading. You’ll learn the process from start to finish.

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What’s the Difference Between In-Network and Out-of-Network Coverage?

November 10, 2023

Woman has curious expression

It’s important to choose the right dentist for your needs, and understanding how dental insurance plans work is a huge part of that choice. Many people may not understand the difference between visiting a provider who is in-network versus one who is out-of-network. Here are the important distinctions between these options and a few tips to help you get the most benefit out of your policy.

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Can Tooth Extractions Help Cure Gum Disease?

October 17, 2023

patient with gum disease getting a tooth extraction

A significant percentage of American adults aged 30 and above have received a diagnosis of gum disease. As symptoms advance, the idea of opting for a tooth extraction to address the issue might cross your mind. While extractions may become necessary in cases of advanced infection, there are crucial considerations to bear in mind beforehand. Explore further to understand when gum disease may warrant a tooth extraction and the importance of seeking early treatment.

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Is It OK If I Have Coffee After an Extraction?

October 2, 2023

person at dentist about to have tooth extracted

Following a tooth extraction, the desire to resume normal routines, including enjoying a cup of coffee, is understandable. However, it’s advisable to temporarily refrain from indulging in java to avoid potential risks to your oral health during the recovery period. This article delves into the reasons for postponing coffee consumption post-extraction, suggests an appropriate timeline for reintroducing it, and provides tips for expediting the recovery process.

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How Can Getting Porcelain Veneers Affect My Diet?

September 13, 2023

Woman has curious expression

Porcelain veneers can be an excellent way to reshape your smile into a more ideal form, but your dietary choices can affect their appearance and how long they can last. Unlike your natural teeth, porcelain veneers have no way to repair themselves if they get damaged, so using them properly is important for keeping them in good shape. Here’s what you should know about eating with porcelain veneers.

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Should I Replace My Metal Dental Crowns With Ceramic Ones?

August 26, 2023

dental crowns of various materials lying on a table

Dental crowns have been a very popular treatment for a long time, but over the years they’ve changed considerably. By far, the most significant shift has been in the materials that they’re made of. For a long time, dental crowns were made of metal—however, in modern dentistry, they’re typically made of some kind of ceramic.

If you have a metal dental crown, it may be worth taking the time to upgrade it into a more modern version. Here are a few reasons why that’s the case.

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How to Pick Between Dental Fillings and Dental Crowns

August 8, 2023

3D render of a dental filling

Tooth decay is one of the most common oral health problems that any dentist will have to deal with, which is why it’s no surprise that there are several ways to handle it. Both dental crowns and dental fillings are able to deal with cavities, and both are well within most dentists’ areas of expertise.

However, if you’re someone who needs one of these restorative treatments, you might not necessarily know the difference between them. That can make it hard to decide which one is best for you. If you’re in that position, here’s what you should know about how to contrast the two procedures.

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Why You Don’t Want Sunburned Lips!

July 25, 2023

Woman with brown hair in a sun hat putting lip balm on in front of a light blue sky background

During the summer months, there are so many opportunities to get outside and enjoy yourself, whether it’s at the swimming pool or a family barbecue in the backyard. While you may be in the habit of wearing sunblock to protect your skin, did you know that your lips can also get burned? If they do, it could negatively affect your oral health as well as your general well-being. Keep reading to learn how you can keep your lips safe this season!

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Smile Like It’s Summer: 5 Oral Health Tips for Vacations

July 20, 2023

Smiling couple sits in back of boat.

Just because you’re off-duty from work doesn’t mean you’re off-duty from brushing your teeth. While summer is a great time to take that cruise or hit the pool at the resort, oral hygiene remains just as important as ever. Taking care of your teeth will keep them healthy for any voyage. Read on for five tips that are certain to help you keep your smile in top shape this summer vacation.

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