Fillings: What Are They & Some Types

Aug 21st, 2023
Easton Dentists Oct 5th, 2023

Dental problems can occur despite your diligent oral care efforts, prompting the need for professional intervention from your dentist, such as Dr. Gilmer serving the New Albany  Ohio area. Should you experience pain or discomfort due to a cavity, your dentist will likely recommend a dental restoration procedure, where they will utilize specific materials to repair and renew teeth affected by tooth decay.

Be sure to keep an open dialogue with your dentist about the type of filling you want, and which tooth requires the most immediate attention, should you only be able to do one at a time. Your dentist will be happy to assist you with any dental insurance issues you may run into.

 


During The Visit:


During your appointment your dentist will assess the damage to your tooth and decide how best to proceed. The procedure should take relatively little time, though it will require a freezing anesthetic. After the anesthetic is applied, your dentist will then begin removing unwanted decay from your tooth with a small drill. Once the hole has been made and all traces of cavity have been removed your dentist will begin filling and sealing the hole with a dental filling.


What Is A Filling:

Dental fillings are a versatile material widely utilized by dentists to skillfully restore teeth affected by decay. Various filling materials are available, and your dentist will carefully select the most suitable option for your specific needs. These filling choices encompass:

Amalgam fillings, often referred to as “silver” fillings, have been a traditional choice for cavity repair for many years. However, their noticeable dark color can make filled cavities easily discernible within the oral cavity.

Ceramic or porcelain fillings, also known as inlays, provide an excellent solution for concealing the appearance of a tooth filling. These pearly-white inlays are bonded to the teeth, creating a seamless visual transition from one tooth to another.

Composite resins are an ideal choice for individuals seeking fillings that match the natural color of their teeth. While they offer aesthetic benefits, it’s important to note that composite resins may not be as durable as some other filling materials and are susceptible to staining.

Glass or acrylic fillings are designed to release fluoride periodically and should primarily be used in low-impact areas of the mouth, such as the front teeth. They are commonly employed to repair chipped or broken teeth within the smile.

Gold fillings are a durable option for individuals seeking a long-lasting solution. Gold fillings can endure for up to 15 years. Although many appreciate their longevity and unique appearance, it’s worth noting that gold fillings can be more expensive than alternative filling materials.

Keep decay causing cavities at bay by maintaining a regular oral health regiment, brushing twice daily and flossing regularly. To schedule a dental appointment for a filling or checkup, or to figure out if you qualify for company plans dental insurance, contact The Dental Center at Easton Town Center at (614) 414-0111.

7 Dental Concerns for Those Over The Age of 50

Jul 13th, 2023
Easton Dentists Jul 13th, 2023

When they say “age is all in your head,” they’re probably right. But then again, your teeth ARE in your head — so you likely can’t escape having to pay a little more attention to them after the age of 50. Although some oral health concerns are seen as common as we age, if you adopt a proactive mindset and educate yourself, these concerns do not have to be common for you. Anticipating and recognizing changes in your mouth can help you be on top of your health in this area — so let’s take a look at the main ones you have to watch out for.

Dry Mouth:

The most common oral health concern you’re likely to experience as you age is dry mouth. In the medical world, dry mouth goes by the name xerostomia, and can be brought on by a number of contributing factors, including the over-consumption of drying beverages like coffee and alcohol, as well as the frequent consumption of salty foods. Another big offender is the medication we take over a lifetime to treat various illness. And the list isn’t a short one – there are over 400 medications that can contribute to xerostomia, including medications for high blood pressure and depression. We have been able to help many patients find relief and prevent them from greater harm.

Ill-fitting Dentures: 

First off, it’s important to note that the need for dentures is not a must as we age. Today, healthier living and better access to dental care has reduced the percentage of seniors wearing dentures to 27% from nearly 50% just a few decades ago. That said, should dentures be a part of your life, or that of a loved one, wearing properly-fitting dentures is critical. Sometimes, all that’s needed is a denture reline. Give Easton Dental Center in Columbus Ohio a call at (614) 414-0111 and we can see if that will help. Dentures that cause pain or shift in the mouth tend to alter a person’s eating habits, which can lead to nutrition deficits if healthy, but hard-to-chew, foods are avoided. Ill-fitting dentures can also cause thrush.

Physical Obstacles to Good Oral Care: 

As we age, we sometimes find ourselves having to contend with physical ailments that limit our desire to maintain good oral care. Arthritis, vision loss, or injuries are a few of the most common. To combat these concerns, using a floss pick to get between teeth can be helpful, and the regular use of oral rinses can assist in dislodging difficult-to-remove food debris, while adding to the overall health of one’s mouth and gum tissue. Here’s how to choose the best mouth rinse for your needs!

Naturally Receding Gums: 

The old expression “long in the tooth” isn’t just a quaint idiom about how one accumulates wisdom with age – it also refers to how our teeth appear to “lengthen” as we age. In other words, it’s a fancy way of saying our gums are receding. While some degree of gum recession is indeed natural as we get up in years, this predisposes us to cavities along the root structure of the tooth where enamel doesn’t exist. So, as one ages, flossing, brushing and rinses are more important than ever.

Gum Disease: 

Natural gum recession is one thing, and a part of “growing up,” if you will. Gum disease, however, is preventable. So, if it’s been longer than six months since you’ve seen us, please do give us a call at (614) 414-0111. Each of the above items in this list can contribute to gum disease, and good oral care can prevent it. Failing to do so can lead to a need for dentures at its most extreme, and pain and swollen gums at its least. We’d prefer you experience neither concern!

Tooth Loss: 

If a tooth is lost due to trauma or decay, and not replaced with an implant or other prosthetic, it can have serious complications for the health of the jawbone. Teeth can shift out of place and fall out, and bone tissue can be resorbed back into the body. Not a good thing.

Loss of Insurance Coverage:

Retirees without dental coverage can sometimes cover the expense of dental care on their own; sometimes they cannot. But a lack of funds to take care of one’s teeth can be devastating to the health of our mouths, and our overall health. So we need to plan for two things: a care routine that allows us to take care of our teeth as much as humanly possible and some sort of financial backup plan for when problems do arise.  We help dozens of patients a week to discover what the plan that best fits their needs!

What Should You Do If You Don’t Have Dental Insurance

Jul 7th, 2023
Easton Dentists Jul 13th, 2023

As we age, our teeth become more prone to fracture and possess a greater risk for decay. Over a period of time, the old fillings will weaken the teeth. This is not the best time to put your dental health on hold.

Yet, many people in their fifties and sixties do not have a dental provider either because they are self-employed, have retired or work part-time. Medicare does not cover the majority of dental care, like fillings, cleanings, dentures, tooth extractions, dental plates or additional dental devices; Part A just pays for specific dental services you might get while hospitalized.

The ACA (Affordable Care Act) will make dental insurance for kids amongst the required ten critical health benefits, yet there isn’t any dental insurance requirement for those over 18 years of age.

Though all of this sounds bad for the uninsured, you’ll still have some choices for obtaining great dental care at an affordable price:

1. Search for a dentist that has a payment plan. Most dentists provide a payment arrangement which will replace insurance. You’ll pay a yearly fee, typically over time, without any financing and interest.

If it’s not possible to locate a dentist in your area that has an affordable-payment plan, look for pro-bono services.

2. Look for events providing low-cost or free dentistry at America’s Dentists Care Foundation, Dentistry From the Heart, or upon your state’s dental association site.

3. Visit a dental school. National Institute of Dental & Craniofacial Research states that dental schools provide reduced cost, good quality dental treatment. Many have clinics in which students get experience treating patients as licensed, knowledgeable dentists supervise their work. You will locate a listing of accredited dental programs upon the American Dental Association site.

To discuss your dental insurance company plans with Dr. Gilmer’s staff contact Easton Dental Center at (614) 414-0111.

Energy Drinks and Your Youngster’s Teeth. Should You Worry?

Jul 14th, 2022
Easton Dentists Nov 18th, 2022

Sugary Energy Drinks Can Cause Dental Damage

The hard clack of cleats echo about as your “little” sports hero rushes to get out of the house … soon to be late for practice. Armed with all they’ll need for a day in the sun, their equipment bag is packed and slung awkwardly over one shoulder, bursting at the seams with untold numbers of pads and dirty gear. And after making a final beeline through the kitchen to raid your refrigerator of a 64oz bottle or two of rainbow-colored sustenance, they’re off for what will no doubt be another grueling practice session. You’re proud of your kids – they’re growing up. And yet you wonder as you stare at the door that just shut behind them. Are those technicolored drinks they’re drinking every day hurting them?

The truth, unfortunately, is yes. While they may keep your children energized and awake for the next few hours, the bad news is, they’re secretly eating away at their teeth – and fast.

Why Are Energy Drinks Such a Threat to Teeth?

The crux of the problem is the double-whammy that comes from an exceedingly high sugar content(in the ones that still contain sugar) and citric acid pH that can be as low as 2.9. Now, we understand pH can be a tricky thing to understand, so to help put that number in perspective, a bit, consider this: battery acid has a pH of 0.0 (so, a lower number means a higher acid content). Stomach acid (which we can imagine as being quite acidic, at least!) has a pH that fluctuates between 1.0 and 3.0.  A lemon, in contrast, comes in at around 2.0, a grapefruit at 3.0, and tomato juice at 4.0.

The real distinction though is in knowing that with each increase in numerical value, the acid intensity increases 10-fold. So, in the example above, a lemon ends up being 10 times more acidic than a grapefruit, and 100 times more acidic than tomato juice – a sensation you can certainly taste if you bite into one!  In contrast, milk and water have a pH of 7.0, so, it’s easy to see the difference in the numbers – they’re huge.

The Science

What all this means to your child’s teeth is the real question, though, and precisely what researchers at Southern Illinois University set out to discover in 2012.  The results, which surprised even the research team, showed considerable damage to tooth enamel after only five days of steady consumption. Five days.

To determine the effect of these drinks on our teeth, the research team looked at 22 popular sports and energy drinks, and exposed artificial tooth enamel to the beverages for 15 minutes at a time, four times daily. This schedule was chosen because it mirrors the consumption habits of many users who drink these beverages every few hours – a particularly common habit among those who consume sports drinks, particularly when your kids are involved in sports.  After each 15-minute exposure, the enamel was then placed into an artificial saliva solution for two hours to mimic what would happen once consumption stopped.  After only five days on this schedule, the enamel showed a 1.5% loss with sports drinks, and a shocking 3% loss with energy drinks.

We have seen to many patients in their younger years already suffering from extensive enamel loss. One case was especially heartbreaking because the patient thought they were doing a great job simply by staying away from soda. The result: it gave that patient more perceived freedom to consume these sports drinks at a higher rate because they were “better” than soda.

The Critics

While critics in the beverage industry suggest the time used to expose the enamel to the drinks may have been excessive, it’s widely known that snacking, as well as regular sipping of any beverage other than water, creates acidic activity in the mouth that promotes tooth decay. Of course, adults also need to be careful, and if you’re the weekend warrior type, or are pulling shifts and consuming these beverages throughout the day, the time of exposure might actually not be long enough.  The sweet spot is in the middle ground, and that’s basically the advice we’re going to offer today.

There is no doubt that these beverages are not good for our teeth. They’re also not good for our stomach, and esophagus if one is prone to acid reflux.

The Middle Ground — It’s about being Informed

We’re not asking you to force your kids to give up their sports beverages and energy drinks. However, it is wise to know the risks and to understand how you can help your kids combat some of their side effects. Here are two quick tips that will help if they can’t shake the habit:

  • Have them keep water nearby so they sip on it to dilute the acid covering their teeth. This also increases saliva production to help protect tooth enamel.
  • Suggest that they don’t brush immediately after consuming such beverages.  Why? Because in the thirty minutes to an hour after consumption, tooth enamel will be slightly softer, and brushing in this window of time literally ends up spreading the acid around to other parts of the teeth. Not good.  If brushing is desired, save it for an hour or so after.

Lastly, here is the breakdown of the most caustic to least caustic drinks as found by the researchers. Remember, the lower the number, the more harmful to your teeth!

Sports Drinks:

  • Filtered Ionozed Alkaline H2O – pH: 10.0
  • Water – pH: 7.o
  • Odwalla Carrot juice – pH: 6.2
  • Odwalla Vanilla Monster – pH: 5.8
  • Unflavored Pedialyte – pH: 5.4
  • Vita coco – pH: 5.2
  • Aquafina,Dasani, Smart water – pH: 4.0
  • GU2O – pH: 4.29
  • Powerade – pH: 3.89
  • Accelerade – pH: 3.86
  • Gatorade Endurance – pH:  3.22
  • Monster – pH:  2.7

Energy Drinks:

  • Red Bull – pH: 3.3
  • AMP Energy – pH: 2.7
  • Monster Energy – pH: 2.7
  • Full Throttle  – pH: 1.45
  • Rock Star – pH: 1.5

P.S. Don’t forget your annual checkup at Easton Dental and a mouthguard!!

Common Dental Problems Dentists Face

Aug 4th, 2021
Easton Dentists Oct 2nd, 2021

Every day, Dentists, such as yours in Columbus Ohio, face some common dental problems, some more common than others. At first, some of these problems may not be serious. If ignored and not addressed, eventually, they can lead to serious problems.

Here are some of the common problems that dentists face daily:

Bad Breath

Bad breath, also technically known as Halitosis, is a common dental problem that many individuals have. Bad breath can be caused by dry mouth, cavities, gum disease, bacteria on the tongue, and even oral cancers.

Even though a majority of individuals use mouthwash to stop bad breath, mouthwash may just be masking the underlying problem. In rare cases, there may be a serious concern that needs to be addressed.

Cavities

There are different forms of tooth decay, but the most common form of decay that dentists face are cavities.

Cavities occur when a sticky and hard substance called Plaque produce acids that erode the tooth enamel. Plaque is formed by a combination of bacteria, sugar and starches. Depending on how advanced the cavity has spread, in most cases, a filling would be a proper procedure to fix a cavity. However, in more serious cases, a root canal would be the proper course of treatment.

Preventing cavities and tooth decay is relatively easy: brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, go to your regular checkups and eat healthy by avoiding foods that are heavy in starches and sugars.

Gum Disease

Gingivitis and Periodontitis are infections of the gums and the soft tissue of the mouth. These infections are also one of the main causes of all tooth decay among adults.

On the surface, these infections may not be serious, but gum disease is strongly linked to heart disease and stroke.

To prevent gum diseases, it is critical to brush at least twice a day and floss.

Unattractive Smile

Although unattractive smiles are not considered a medical dental problem, they may be considered a problem to people who are unhappy with their smile. Unattractive smiles are a reason why individuals seek treatment to correct these problems.

A smile is important to an individual’s self-esteem. Fortunately, with advancements and techniques in dental sciences, virtually everyone can have a smile that they can be happy with. Through teeth whitening, dental implants, dental bridges, dental partials, or any other cosmetic work, your dentist can achieve your perfect smile.
If you believe that you have any of these common dental problems, it is highly advised that you see a dentist. Although these minor dental problems may not seem serious at first, as time progresses, these could become severe.

At The Dental Center at Easton Town Center, Dr. Glimer, an experienced board certified dentist, deeply cares and understands your dental concerns. Our staff wants you to know that we are highly trained and that we pride ourselves on providing the best care and attention you need to keep your smile healthy. If you believe you have any concerns above or questions regarding your oral health, make an appointment with us today!

What To Look For When Selecting a Dentist in Columbus

Jul 17th, 2021
Easton Dentists Aug 16th, 2021

Dentists in Columbus Ohio work with a lot of patients day in and day out. Just as in any profession, there are individual dentists who enjoy their job with a passion and excel at it, and there are others who just do the minimum to get by. When looking for a dentist, it is important to look for qualities that will make you feel welcomed.

If you are looking for a dentist, here are some traits and qualities that make great dentists:

Easy to Talk to

The best dentists in their field try to learn about their patients on a more personal level before treating them to make them feel comfortable. This makes the patients less anxious and makes them feel like the dentist truly cares about them.

Trustworthiness

There are a lot of sharp and hazardous objects that dentists use every day: syringes, dental picks, drills, x-ray machines and other types of dental equipment. As a patient, you should be able to trust that your dentist is capable of making your experience pain-free and pleasant.

Passionate

There are a lot of dentists who become burnt out in their careers. It is very important to find a dentist that comes to work every day with passion, a smile, a great attitude, and leaves work the same way. These kinds of dentists are eager to constantly learn about new techniques and procedures in dentistry that make life easier for them and their patients.

Great Communicator

Successful dentists can convey their thoughts clearly and efficiently to their patients and staff. Whether it is a simple routine or a complex procedure, a dentist must be able to communicate this important information to you effectively.

At The Dental Center at Easton Town Center, we understand your thoughts and concerns. Visiting a dentist should never be uncomfortable or intimidating. Dr. Gilmer and his professional staff are committed to making every office visit a positive experience. We encourage you to ask questions; together we can make sound decisions about the dental and oral healthcare for you and your family. Schedule an appointment with us today!

How to Become a Dentist

Jul 14th, 2021
Easton Dentists Aug 16th, 2021

“I wrote a song about dental floss, but did anyone’s teeth get cleaner?”  — Frank Zappa

Dentists are the medical professionals that specialize behind the most beautiful of smiles. Day after day, patient after patient, these medical individuals diagnose, treat, and prevent the most common and uncommon oral problems.  These problems can range from plaque build up to oral cancer.

But what does it take to be a dentist in the state of Ohio?

Enroll in a Bachelor’s Degree Program

Traditionally, those becoming aspiring dentists opt for a science-related or pre-dentistry majors to increase their chances of being accepted to dental school.  However, exceptions have been made for individuals who complete an undergraduate degree in an unrelated field.

Take the Dental Admissions Test

The Dental Admissions Test is an examination that grants a prospective dental school candidate admission to a college of dentistry.  The exam is five hours long, contains 280 multiple-choice questions, and its topics include natural sciences, mathematics, and perceptual ability.

Graduate from an Accredited Dental College

Upon completion of any pre-dentistry or science-related undergraduate programs and the Dental Admissions Test, a prospective dentist must graduate from an accredited dental college with either a Doctorate of Dental Surgery or a Doctorate of Dental Medicine.

The first 2 years of dental school encompasses a heavy general dental science curriculum. Upon the final 2 years of dental school, students must participate in clinical practicum and get hands-on experience in dental clinics under supervision.

Obtain Licensure

In the United States, all dentists must obtain a license to practice dentistry.  To obtain licensure, a dentist must take a 2-part exam covering dental science, ethics and clinical procedures given by the state.

Consider a Specialization

Finally, a prospective dentist must also declare a specialty with the American Dental Association (ADA) and the state in which they want to practice. The ADA recognizes 9 different specialty areas: Public Health Dentistry, Prosthodontics, Endodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Orthodontics, Periodontics and Pediatric Dentistry.  Becoming a specialist in dentistry usually entails an additional 2-4 year education and residency (depending on the state’s requirements) to obtain a specialty license.

At The Dental Center at Easton Town Center, Dr. Brad Gilmer graduated successfully with honors from THE Ohio State University and is currently a member of The American Dental Association, The Ohio Dental Association, The Columbus Dental Society, and The Chicago Dental Society.  With years of practical experience under his belt, you can rest assured that you are in caring and more-than-qualified hands.

Our highly experienced and welcoming dental staff in our office in Columbus Ohio deeply care about our patients.  The Dental Center at Easton provide only the best dental care at an affordable price for you and your family.  If you are due for a check-up, schedule an appointment with us, we would love to meet you; we want to make your visit as pleasant

Acid Reflux And Tooth Sensitivity

Jun 21st, 2021
Easton Dentists Jul 16th, 2021

As if acid reflux wasn’t painful enough, now your teeth are aching. Are acid reflux and tooth sensitivity related? We have the answer.

Do you have acid reflux? Common symptoms of acid reflux include a burning sensation within the chest and throat, dysphagia, sore or hoarse throat, the feeling of a blockage or lump within the throat, and of course the acid reflux itself; or sour regurgitation of ingested foods and liquids that comes up with a burning sensation. While this illness has much to do with heartburn, did you know it could also have a staggering effect on the health and wellness of your teeth? We’re looking at how acid reflux and tooth sensitivity are related.

Acid reflux is caused by a backup of bile or stomach acids that make their way into the esophagus, causing pain and discomfort along the way. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reported that 7-million Americans suffer from acid reflux and may not realize the damage it is doing to their teeth until decay has already become severe. One way to ensure the health of your teeth is to inform your dentist of any medical conditions you may have, including acid reflux. This will help your dentist best determine which procedures and medications you should be prescribed. He may also be able to help you develop a safer diet for your stomach, and your teeth.

Other ways to avoid the negative effects of acid reflux is to avoid ingesting acidic foods and beverages, wash your mouth out with water immediately after reflux and avoid brushing your teeth for at least one hour after an acid reflux experience. These will help you stand on guard against this frustrating illness.

Contact The Dental Center to discuss your relief options from severe tooth aches and sensitivity. Call today (614) 414-0111 to schedule an appointment.

How To Find A Columbus, Ohio Dentist You Can Trust

May 4th, 2021
Easton Dentists Jun 8th, 2021

One of the most important things to consider when you’re choosing a Columbus, Ohio dentist for you and your family is how comfortable you feel with that person.  If you trust your dentist, the odds are that you will visit them on a regular basis.

Is explaining your symptoms and asking questions easy for you? Does it feel as though the dentist is truly listening to your concerns and understands your questions?

Dr. Gilmer has over 10 years of experience in family dentistry and is committed to providing professional, advanced dental care to his patients of all ages. He is well respected in the community and is known for listening to his patients concerns.

Columbus, Ohio Dentist & The Dental Center

Now you can feel comfortable expressing your fears or anxiety with a doctor who treats every patient like family. With an emphasis on preventative care for the patient’s lifetime, our complete list of dental services caters to each patient.  From routine cleanings and emergency visits to complete smile transformations and restorative dentistry, we utilize the latest dental techniques to give our patients the most innovative services.

Our beautiful office at Easton is designed with your comfort in mind. By uniting a calm atmosphere with innovative technology, we have created a place where each of our patients receives the quality care they need and deserve – in the most efficient manner. That’s why we’re one of the Columbus, Ohio dentist providers.

From the moment you walk in our front door, our team will make you feel comfortable, cared for and welcome. Our state-of-the art facility has the latest certified equipment, so we can offer you the most advanced treatment options.

Flexible Columbus, Ohio Dentist Appointments

The Dental Center at Easton Town Center strives to deliver lifetime care to the Columbus area, because we believe that oral health is an integral piece to your overall health. But sometimes finding a Columbus, Ohio dentist that meets your schedule isn’t always easy.

Our philosophy is to provide care that will be in your best interest now, and in the years to come, so you have a smile that will last a lifetime working your schedule, not ours. That’s what makes life easy choosing your next Columbus, Ohio dentist.

We welcome you to make The Dental Center at Easton Town Center  your first choice in dentistry for your family. We are currently accepting new patients now. Make an appointment today by calling (614) 414-0111. Read more about scheduling your next Columbus Ohio dentist appointment.

Save Money with Regular Dental Checkups

Mar 9th, 2021
Easton Dentists Apr 14th, 2021

Do you put off going to the dentist because of the expense? Maybe you think that you can get by skipping regular dental exams to save some money. However, by skipping regular dental checkups you are putting yourself at risk of seeing bigger bills than the cost of a routine appointment.

People who don’t receive regular dental exams often end up going to the emergency room for oral problems.  Did you know that the emergency room is unequipped to solve underlying dental health problems and the visit there usually costs 10 times more than seeing a dentist to address the same problem?  Seeking routine care can prevent the need to seek emergency dental care after the damage is done, at a much lower cost.

Additionally, oral care has a substantial impact on your overall health. By neglecting regular dental checkups, you are not only putting your oral health at risk but also your overall health and wellbeing. Many diseases can be diagnosed and treated early during regular and routine oral care. Astronomical hospital bills for diseases that could have been prevented can be avoided with an annual dental exam.

Don’t let yourself get stuck with a sky-high hospital bill because you didn’t get regular dental checkups. Call The Dental Center today to schedule your appointment!