Dental Crowns: How Long Do They Last?

Dental crowns involve an intensive fitting procedure and often yield fantastic results for a smile. It is reasonable, then, to wonder how long a crown should last. Here is a brief summary of how long a dental crown’s average lifespan is, as well as some information about how a crown can be made to last longer.

How long do dental crowns last?

To be straightforward, a dental crown will not last forever, no matter how well it is fitted. The good news, however, is that they usually last a long time.

A crown’s average lifespan

Professionally-fitted dental crowns usually have about five to 15 years of longevity on average. Crowns are made of resilient materials, like porcelain or metal alloys, which allows them to stand up to a lot of potential wear and damage. Of course, crowns are also not indestructible, and they may need to be replaced for a variety of reasons.

Common reasons for replacement

A crown is in need of replacement when it showcases one or both of the telltale signs of significant damage or dental issues. Damage to the crown is often visible in the form of chips or cracks on the crown’s surface. These can be dangerous for several reasons. For one, chips off a crown can cause injury to the mouth due to sharp edges, or could even injure the throat if swallowed. A damaged crown also may create an opening through which the tooth it protects could be exposed to infection.

The second sign a crown needs replacement is any new pain, signs of infection or development of plaque around the base or ridges of the crown. This is an indicator that the tooth beneath may be infected or further damaged, and warrants both a replacement and dental attention to the tooth in question.

A crown’s lifespan can be extended

Thankfully, there are some steps that can be taken to extend a crown’s life. While it is not guaranteed your crown will last forever, proper care for it can keep it pearly white for several years.

Avoiding harmful habits

Dental crowns can be needlessly damaged by habits, including those a patient might not even be aware that they have. Examples of harmful habits to a crown’s health are improper or no brushing and flossing, habitual teeth grinding or chewing on hard objects.

The importance of regular dental visits

Consistently seeing a dentist for scheduled dental checkups and cleanings are also an important factor in a crown’s longevity. Dentists have the tools necessary to care both for natural teeth and dental crowns, and regular cleanings help to ward off any new infections that could develop in the mouth and spread, endangering both the crown and the tooth beneath it. A well-followed regimen of home brushing and flossing in conjunction with dental visits can keep a crown in place for years to come.

Do you currently need dental crowns?

If you are currently in need of dental crowns, we invite you to contact our office today to schedule a consultation with a dentist.

Request an appointment here: or call Anderson Family Dentistry at (530) 365-3351 for an appointment in our Anderson office.

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What Causes Teeth Grinding and How Can it Be Treated?

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, can occur due to many reasons. Common causes are an abnormal bite, missing or crooked teeth and stress.

Often people have no idea they are grinding their teeth since it commonly happens during sleep. If grinding goes unnoticed for a long time, it can lead to severe damage and pain. The earlier you identify the problem, the faster you can protect your teeth against grinding.

Signs of teeth grinding

Because teeth grinding or clenching of the jaw often occurs during sleep, you may not realize the damage you are doing. That said, there are signs of grinding.

These include:

• Chipped, fractured or loose teeth
• Enamel that is worn down
• Tooth pain or sensitivity
• Tight, tired jaw muscles
• Soreness in the pain, jaw or neck
• Bites on the inside of the cheek
• Waking up with a headache that starts in the temple
• Disturbed sleep patterns

Many people do not realize they grind until a friend or family member tells them. If a loved one says you bite your teeth during sleep, you may be grinding.

Is teeth grinding harmful?

Teeth grinding can damage teeth when left untreated. The constant grinding wears down the teeth and can lead to fractures and even tooth loss. However, your teeth are not the only thing that suffers.

Grinding affects the jaw and can cause problems in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This condition can lead to painful chewing, popping noises and stiffness in the jaw.

The constant grinding, wearing of teeth, stress on the jaw and tooth loss can significantly change the facial structure as well.

Bruxism is medically and aesthetically harmful. It is a disorder that needs to be addressed by a dentist.

Can teeth grinding be cured?

Teeth grinding is a symptom of another condition. Once you identify the cause of grinding, your dentist can recommend the best way to treat it.

Clenching teeth while awake may often be emotional and require coping strategies, relaxation or counseling. When the grinding occurs during sleep, it is important to be tested for a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea.

No two people are alike, so there is not a single solution for grinding.

Simple treatments can include stress management, changing sleeping habits and learning relaxation techniques. For medical issues, you may need braces to correct an improper bite or other dental problem.

In the meantime, ask your dentist for a mouth guard to wear while sleeping. This will not stop the grinding, but it can protect your teeth from damage. Learn to relax before bed and pay attention to anything that may be causing stress.

Speak with a dentist

Teeth grinding can ruin a perfect smile. While you can find ways to manage your stress at home, seeing a dentist for evaluation is one of the best ways to treat this bad habit.

Call our office and schedule an appointment. The dentist can work with you to find what is causing the grinding and develop a treatment plan to keep your smile safe.

Request an appointment here: or call Anderson Family Dentistry at (530) 365-3351 for an appointment in our Anderson office.

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How to Care for a Fixed Dental Bridge

After finally deciding to replace your lost tooth with a fixed dental bridge, you are left with the question: how do you care for your new dental restoration? Getting a new, healthy smile can be a little overwhelming and a big confidence booster. If you want to preserve the new smile and keep your teeth looking attractive for a long time, you need to learn the correct ways to care for your dental bridge.

Increasing the lifespan of your fixed dental bridge

With proper care, a fixed dental bridge can survive for ten years or more. The biggest threat to your new dental bridge is tooth decay, which is mostly caused when food debris gets stuck between your teeth or beneath the prosthetic tooth. If tooth decay occurs, the natural teeth holding the dental bridge on either side may falter and cause the bridge to fail. The following are ways to care for your fixed dental bridge and increase its lifespan.

Avoid chewing on ice or hard substances

Dental bridges and crowns are manufactured from ceramic, which is sturdy and durable, but like healthy teeth, they may break or fracture if subjected to undue force or pressure. Avoid bad habits like chewing ice or opening bottles or packages with your teeth. These acts can place your dental bridge at risk of damage.

Clean the dental bridge daily

You may think the fixed dental bridge is a prosthetic and requires no care, but this is wrong. You should take time to brush your dental restoration daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush to prevent possible accumulation of plaque and tartar on your teeth.

Do not forget to floss

Flossing is a crucial aspect of your oral care regimen, and you need to clean the spaces between the teeth and your gums properly to prevent plaque build-up or gum disease. Ensure you floss daily, especially after meals and before bedtime, making sure there are no particles left in your teeth.

Get a fluoride rinse

Although the purpose of getting the dental bridge is to get back the function and strength of the tooth crown above the gum line, you should take adequate care to ensure the gum line is in an optimal state. This is to prevent bacteria or plaque accumulation in this area. Brushing and flossing will help, but using a fluoride dental rinse will further fortify your dentition against tooth decay. This is especially recommended for people who are at higher risk of cavities or gum disease.

In conclusion

In the first few days of getting your dental bridge, you may notice minor sensitivity to hot or cold food or drinks. You can consult your dentist to get recommendations for products that may help lessen this symptom. Aside from your regular home care, you need to keep up with your bi-annual dental appointments for cleanings and exams. During your appointment, the dentist will check if your fixed dental bridges are correctly fitted and in good condition. With proper care, you should not need another dental bridge in years.

Request an appointment here: or call Anderson Family Dentistry at (530) 365-3351 for an appointment in our Anderson office.

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Root Canal Questions Answered by a Dentist Near Anderson

A root canal treatment is used by a dentist to deal with severe cases of tooth decay. It is the last course of action before extraction becomes inevitable. Tooth decay is caused by parts of a tooth being eaten away by acids in the foods a person consumes and those produced by oral bacteria.

The earlier stages of tooth decay can be addressed with fillings, but once the decay reaches the pulp chamber, where the pulp and nerve of the tooth are housed, the tooth becomes prone to infections that can lead to excruciating pain. Here are some of the common questions a dentist often has thrown at them regarding root canals.

Questions about root canals

1. Is it painful?

While root canals have a bad reputation as one of those treatments people should avoid at all costs, that is not quite accurate. The most painful thing a patient will feel during a root canal is the shot of anesthetic that is administered by the dentist. Afterward, all the patient feels is pressure and vibrations while the dentist works on the tooth. Those who are scared of shots can ask the dentist to apply some topical anesthetic before administering the shot. That way the patient does not feel the needle breaking the skin.

2. Will there be lots of pain afterward?

Not really. The purpose of a root canal is to remove the nerve and pulp of a tooth when the pulp chamber has been compromised. Once that has been done, the patient is free to go about like they normally would. Prescription painkillers are rarely prescribed for those who have had root canals. Patients who experience some discomfort afterward should talk to their dentist about taking over-the-counter painkillers.

3. How long does the process last?

A root canal takes about an hour to complete. It is a straightforward process. The dentist starts by applying an anesthetic, as was mentioned earlier, then a hole is drilled into the tooth. Different sized files are then used to clean out the tooth and remove the pulp. If there is an infection, the dentist will apply some medication to the area before closing it back up. The dentist will typically finish up the process by covering the tooth up with a dental crown.

4. What are the alternatives to a root canal?

The main alternative to a root canal is an extraction, but dentists rarely recommend having a tooth pulled unless it is completely necessary. An extracted tooth will need to be replaced with an implant, and that can be a lot pricier than saving the tooth with a root canal. There is no need to be terrified about the prospect of going through a root canal. It is something you should look forward to since it means you will soon be able to go about your day without having to deal with a toothache.

More questions?

If you have more questions about root canals, call our office. We are happy to answer any questions you may have!

Are you considering getting a root canal at a dentist in the Anderson area? Get more information at .

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A Dentist Explains 6 Ways to Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is one of the most common dental issues dentists treat. The early stages of decay can be difficult to detect, but it will eventually lead to some serious dental problems if left unaddressed.

Causes of tooth decay

Tooth decay is caused by acids that are present in your mouth. Some of these acids come from the things you eat like certain fruits and drinks. Oral bacteria create the rest of the acid. These organisms feast on food particles that are left on the teeth after meals, and they excrete acids after eating.

The enamel can withstand these acids, but when left exposed to them for prolonged periods, they can weaken a tooth's structure and its enamel. Once the enamel weakens, cavities begin to form on teeth surfaces. It always starts with a tiny dent, but the hole gradually expands as the decay continues. If left unchecked, the decay will eventually make its way to the pulp chambers which houses and protects the tooth's nerve and blood vessels.

Patients become susceptible to infections when the contents of the pulp chamber intermix with saliva, bacteria and acids in the mouth. Dentists can stop the early stages of tooth decay with dental fillings, but the later stages usually require a root canal. When a severe infection forms, a dentist may recommend an extraction.

Symptoms of tooth decay

Common symptoms of tooth decay include:

• Tooth sensitivity
• Toothaches
• Gum inflammation and redness
• Cavities
• Bad breath
• Bad taste in the mouth
• Infections

Preventing tooth decay

Preventing tooth decay is not particularly difficult. It is only a matter of making dental hygiene a top priority and avoiding certain foods. Here is how to keep tooth decay at bay:

1. Brush twice daily

Brushing twice a day will ensure the teeth are not exposed to things that can damage them for prolonged periods.

2. Floss daily

Flossing is just as important as brushing. It cleans the spaces between teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach. You should floss at least once each day.

3. Use a fluoride mouthwash

Using mouthwash that contains fluoride ensures that your teeth are properly mineralized. Fluoride helps to strengthen teeth enamel which protects them from decay.

4. Be careful with sugar

Sugar is not just bad for your health; it is just as bad for your teeth. Consuming too many sugary treats can lead to tooth decay. Sugar is acidic in nature, and it sticks on teeth surfaces. The bacteria that damage teeth love sugar as much as people do.

5. Drink lots of water

Water helps to clean the teeth and gums. It washes away acids and food particles that bacteria eat.

6. Visit a dentist twice a year

Regular visits to a dentist will help to prevent decay. A dental cleaning will remove tartar and plaque, and the dentist can also perform protective procedures like a fluoride treatment.

If you are particularly susceptible to tooth decay, it is a good idea to ask your dentist about other tips for preventing tooth decay since they are familiar with your dental history. Give us a call today for more information!

Request an appointment here: or call Anderson Family Dentistry at (530) 365-3351 for an appointment in our Anderson office.

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Questions for an Invisalign® Dentist in Anderson

Invisalign has grown in popularity as a method of treatment for people with crooked teeth, and people often consider an Invisalign dentist because of all of the benefits that come along with using the treatment and the convenience of seeing their dentist. These clear dental aligners allow for straightened teeth with quicker turn around times and because they’re clear, nobody really even notices them!

While Invisalign is commonly used, some people are unaware of what it can do for them. In this article, we will go over some common questions regarding Invisalign so that anyone who is considering it can have a better understanding of the topic. Read more here!

Common questions about Invisalign

Invisalign dentists are able to answer any questions regarding the matter. It’s always a good idea to talk with a professional so that they can help provide a better understanding.

How is Invisalign different than traditional braces?

Traditional braces are made of brackets and wires. They are set on each tooth so that they will individually work to shift over time. Invisalign are clear aligners that a person can remove at any time. Instead of individual brackets, it is one whole appliance that works to shift the teeth altogether.

Is Invisalign more or less time-consuming?

Because Invisalign works to shift the teeth altogether, it usually consumes less time. Traditional braces work each individual tooth whereas Invisalign works all of the teeth. When all of the teeth shift together, they are more likely to achieve straightness as opposed to when they shift individually, it may take longer to see definite results.

Will people be able to see the Invisalign on my teeth?

A lot of people worry about what they will look like when they’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. It is good to know that Invisalign allows someone to have a completely discreet treatment because they are clear and almost impossible to see. Because they are clear, most people aren’t likely to even notice them.

Is Invisalign hard to keep clean?

Because Invisalign is removable, it is completely easy to care for. Some people may be concerned about the cleaning process but it is actually simple. It’s been said that keeping the teeth cleaned by brushing will also help the aligner to stay clean. However, a dental-approved solution will do the aligner good from time to time. This will ensure that bacteria and germs are present.

Invisalign has become one of the most common methods of orthodontic treatment. It can provide someone with benefits that a lot of other appliances might not be able to. Talking with an orthodontist or dentist about Invisalign can also help one who is considering their different options. They’ll be able to explain what the benefits are and how it can help the teeth.

If you have questions or concerns about an Invisalign dentist or the treatment process then reach out to our office today. We are happy to answer any questions that you might have.

Request an appointment here: or call Anderson Family Dentistry at (530) 365-3351 for an appointment in our Anderson office.

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Where to Go for Emergency Dental Care Near Anderson

Emergency Dental Care can be needed at any time and people often panic when they realize that there an emergency is occurring. Knowing what to do and where to go for a dental emergency can be frightening and hard to think about in the moment. Being aware of how to handle a dental emergency and where one should go beforehand can help someone when the emergency does occur.

Today, we will go over where one should go when they are experiencing a dental emergency. It can be beneficial to be aware of both options, read more below!

Where to go for emergency dental care

Emergency dental care can often be given at an emergency dentist’s office or the emergency room of a hospital. Emergency dentists are like urgent cares and people can go there if their regular dentist’s office isn’t opened. Below we will go over both the emergency room and an emergency dentist’s office so that you know which is right for you!

Emergency dentist’s office

An emergency dentist office acts like an urgent care facility and they are available almost everywhere in case an emergency within the mouth doses occur. These offices are typically open longer hours and more days than that of the traditional dentist’s office. Their staff is more trained in emergent situations that require dental work be done immediately.

Dental emergencies such as a knocked out tooth, severe pain, a cracked or chipped tooth are dental problems that can be addressed by an emergency dentist. People that incur injuries to the mouth where the teeth are affected are able to be treated at facilities like these.

Emergency rooms of a hospital

A person should get to an emergency room at a hospital if they are experiencing an emergency that doesn’t just affect the teeth. Often, facial or oral injuries affect the teeth, gums, jawbone and face too. When these do occur, it is best that they go straight to the emergency room instead of an emergency dentist. Doctors within the emergency room are more equipped to handle the entire injury as opposed to just the dental injury.

Because emergency rooms are staffed with doctors that specialize in all kinds of medicine, a person is more likely to have their entire injury treated. If there are any signs of trauma to the facial area, the jawbone or even neck then going to the emergency room is absolutely necessary.

When a dental emergency occurs, it is often hard to think about what to do because emergencies heighten emotions and nerves! However, being aware of what the best options are for when an emergency occurs can help a person to be prepared. Emergency dentists are available in most cities for emergencies related to the teeth. If there are dental, oral or facial injuries too then it is always best to go to the emergency room that is closest.

If you have questions about emergency dental care and what to do when one occurs, then reach out to our office immediately. We are happy to help in any way that we can by answering questions or addressing concerns that you might have. 

Request an appointment here: or call Anderson Family Dentistry at (530) 365-3351 for an appointment in our Anderson office.

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7 Tips to Avoid Dental Cavities

Dental cavities and gum diseases are the most widespread diseases among humans. Thankfully, they can be prevented easily. Dental cavities begin when the tooth enamel degrades, causing holes in the tooth.

If neglected, the cavities worsen, and the tooth's structure becomes unstable. The infection can extend to the gums, tooth root, and jawbone. In worse cases, tooth decay and gum disease can cause bone loss.

To prevent dental cavities, there are certain oral hygiene habits to cultivate. Here are seven tips to follow:

1. Brush your teeth

To avoid cavities, you should make brushing your teeth twice daily a priority, using a fluoride toothpaste. Preferably, you should use a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush. Ensure you clean the insides on your teeth, going from the front to the back, and the upper parts. This will help remove plaque or food debris on your teeth after meals.

2. Floss your teeth daily

Every time you eat, your teeth trap food debris that ends up turning into plaque. If the plaque is not removed, it binds with bacteria to produce acid, thereby causing cavities. Use flossers or interdental cleaners to clean debris between the teeth.

3. Book regular dentist appointments

Sometimes, cavities can go undetected for a long time unless you visit a dentist for an examination or X-ray. Going for routine checkups and dental cleanings is essential if you want to avoid cavities and maintain proper oral hygiene. You can ask your dentist about getting fluoride supplements or for suggestions on the best way to brush and floss, to make sure you clean the correct way.

4. Eat healthy foods

Excellent nutrition has a crucial impact on excellent oral health. Consuming nutritious foods and reducing your amount of sugary drinks can help to stop plaque from building up on the teeth. Increase your water intake and try not to eat sugary snacks, hard candies, or acidic foods that may cause trouble for your teeth.

5. Use mouthwash

You will find several brands of antimicrobial dental rinses on the market that have been clinically certified to prevent or lessen plaque. Washing your mouth with these mouthwashes after meals or brushing can help prevent cavities.

6. Get dental sealants

Sealants are protective materials placed on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant serves as a shield for the tooth against the accumulation of plaque and bacteria to prevent cavities. Children are common candidates for sealants because of the eruption of permanent teeth, but adults can also get them.

7. Chew sugarless gums

It may be hard to believe, but chewing sugarless gum can be beneficial for fighting against cavities. It can help by enhancing the flow of saliva in the mouth, which helps to clean the mouth naturally. In 2007, the American Dental Association (ADA) awarded their approval seal to Orbit, Eclipse, and other chewing gums because they help avoid cavities. Check for the ADA's seal of approval on chewing gums or any other dental products before buying.

The bottom line

The rule is simple — excellent oral hygiene means lower risk of dental cavities. Speak with one of our dental health professionals today.

Request an appointment here: or call Anderson Family Dentistry at (530) 365-3351 for an appointment in our Anderson office.

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3 Alternatives to Dentures

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are artificially made teeth that are custom made to replace your missing teeth. These dentures are not permanently set in your mouth - making it easy to take them out and put them back in, whenever you need to clean them or brush your teeth.

Dentures are very useful for people who have lost their teeth especially those that are of old age. For them, dentures mean they do not have to spend the rest of their life without teeth in their mouth. Dentures improve your physical appearance and give you a bright smile. Eating and speaking can be quite a big challenge for people with missing teeth. However, dentures help them eat and speak more comfortably.

For you to get your dentures, you need to visit your dentist so that they can take the measurements and models of your jaw. This will ensure that the dentures will be custom made to fit into your mouth.

Three alternates to dentures

1. Conventional full denture

The conventional full denture requires any of your remaining teeth to be removed and that the gums are given the proper amount of time to heal which might be lengthy. Once the gum is healed, a flesh-colored crystal base supporting the artificial teeth is set onto your gums.

The upper denture covers the roof of your mouth, while the lower denture takes the shape of a horseshoe to accommodate your tongue. With this alternative, you will have to be without teeth for some time so that your gums are able to heal first.

2. Immediate full denture

In an immediate full denture, a custom-made flesh colored crystal base is set into your gums with the upper denture covering the roof of your mouth and the lower denture shaped like a horseshoe to accommodate your tongue after your remaining natural teeth are removed.

However, unlike with the conventional full denture where you have to stay for some time without teeth (to give time to your gums and the jawbone to heal), the immediate full denture is done as soon as all of the natural teeth are removed. Therefore this option does not give time to your gum to first heal.

This alternative ensures that you never have to stay without teeth but unfortunately, the dentures may loosen with time since the bone that holds your teeth in place changes in shape. This happens because it heals from the removal of your natural teeth.

3. A partial denture

With this alternative, not all of the natural teeth need to be removed. It only covers the teeth that have been lost. The dentures are supported by a metal framework which is attached to your natural teeth. Crowns can also be used to provide more support to the denture by placing them on top of your natural teeth.

Disadvantages of dentures

As comfortable as dentures make it for you to eat, speak, and improve your physical appearance (including that of a bright smile), they could be very uncomfortable for some time. You might even take a longer amount of time than you anticipated to get used to having them in your mouth while speaking or eating.

Due to normal wear, the flesh colored crystal base could require a relining or remake while the artificial teeth are retained.  The dentures could loosen due to the natural changes that take place in your mouth as you age. This could irritate your gums and make the chewing of food very uncomfortable.

Caring for dentures

Maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing your dentures every day to remove food particles and plaque that could stain the artificial teeth. Also make sure to brush your gums, roof of your mouth, and your tongue with a soft toothbrush since this stimulates circulation within your tissues and assists in removing plaque.

Place them in a denture cleanser soaking solution or water which is not hot whenever you are not wearing them. This will prevent them from drying.

Dentures are very delicate and they could break if dropped, therefore whenever you are not wearing them, place them away safely.

In case your dentures break, become loose, crack, or chip take them to your dental care provider but do not try repairing them yourself because you could damage them more.

The state of your mouth is the first impression that most people take note of. Dentures ensure that you do not have to stay with gaps left by missing teeth. Therefore with proper care and oral hygiene, you can still afford to smile with confidence and eat food like any other person with natural teeth.

Call (530) 365-3351 today to reach Anderson Family Dentistry.

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Welcome to Anderson Family Dentistry

We are committed to providing quality service to residents located In the Anderson, CA area. Our website has additional information about the following topics: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Dental Veneers, Dentures and Dental Crowns.