Wednesday 16 May 2018

Saturday 12 May 2018

Replace Missing Teeth with Dental Implants

Why is it Bad to Lose Teeth?

Teeth can be lost from accidents or trauma, but the most prevalent reason people lose a tooth is because of gum disease and/or decay. So, is it a terrible thing to lose a tooth? I mean, it's not life-threatening, right? No, you can't die from tooth loss, but losing even one tooth can cause a shifting of teeth which is not good. This can impact chewing and the body's ability to absorb nutrients. Other disagreeable things can result: your face will change shape, often having a sunken look. This will age your face and make you look older than you are. The way you talk can be affected. Because it's more difficult to chew with missing teeth, you may start favoring softer food choices with more carbohydrates, which can lead to weight gain. The great way to repair a missing tooth (or missing teeth) is with dental implants. An implant can replace from one tooth to several. They can be created to look so lifelike that even dentists have to look closely to tell the difference.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Wednesday 9 May 2018

Are you at risk for oral cancer? Learn to perform a self-exam.

Watch American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons's video on "Are you at risk for oral cancer? Learn to perform a self-exam.'


The above video is found on the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons YouTube Channel.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Friday 4 May 2018

Implant Retained Dentures

Overdentures – Locking Your Dentures Securely in Place

We offer our denture patients another alternative – overdentures. With the addition of a few dental implants to support dentures, your teeth will be "locked" into place so they won't move around or slip. Yet they can easily snap off for ease of cleaning. Ask us if you are a candidate for overdentures!

See our Custom Dentures page for more information about dentures and implants!


Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Wednesday 2 May 2018

Are you at risk for oral cancer? Learn the facts.

Watch American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons's video on "Are you at risk for oral cancer? Learn the facts.'


The above video is found on the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons YouTube Channel.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Saturday 28 April 2018

Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation

Rebuilding Your Smile with a Full-Mouth Rehabilitation

Oral health can have a bigger effect on a person's life than regular cleanings and the occasional filling can provide. Many patients who've had injury, illness, bite problems, and wear and tear can have chronic problems that they don't even realize originated in their mouth. Bruxism (tooth grinding), TMJ, periodontitis, crooked and misshapen teeth, and missing teeth can lead to headaches or migraines, toothaches, bad breath, and an unattractive smile. But you no longer have to live like that.
Dr. Agrawal will discuss your concerns, symptoms, and treatment goals. After taking digital X-rays, photos, and/or imprints of your mouth, he will present options for a treatment plan to address any issues and achieve a healthy, painless, beautiful smile. We can also discuss treatment through phases, and financial planning that will place your dream smile within your budget.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Sunday 22 April 2018

The Top 7 Risk Factors for Oral Cancer (Part 3 of 3)

You know your dentist is looking for cavities during regular check-ups, but you may not realize your dentist can check for cancer at the same time. It’s estimated that approximately 51,540 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer and cancers of the throat, tonsils and back of the tongue in 2018.

Sunlight 
People who have jobs working outside are more prone to developing lip cancer and should use UV protection.











Diet 
Poor nutrition also may put you at risk for developing oral cancer. A diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase your chance of developing oral cancer, so add more color to your plate! 
 










To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Sunday 15 April 2018

The Top 7 Risk Factors for Oral Cancer (Part 2 of 3)

You know your dentist is looking for cavities during regular check-ups, but you may not realize your dentist can check for cancer at the same time. It’s estimated that approximately 51,540 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer and cancers of the throat, tonsils and back of the tongue in 2018.

Tobacco 
Whether you smoke it or chew it, tobacco use increases your risk dramatically. Smoking can cause oral cancer, as well as cancer in other parts of the body. Pipe smokers are also at a higher risk for developing cancer in their lips. Smokeless tobacco, like chew, can lead to many issues in your mouth, the most serious being cancer of the cheeks, gums, and lips.











Alcohol 
According to the American Cancer Society, 7 of 10 oral cancer patients are heavy drinkers. Heavy drinking, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is an average of two drinks a day or more for men and an average of more than one drink a day for women. If you are a heavy drinker and a heavy smoker, your chances of developing oral cancer increase significantly.  













Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) 
The sexually transmitted disease is now associated with about 9,000 cases of head and neck cancer (specifically those occurring at the back of the tongue, in or around the tonsils) diagnosed each year in the United States, according to the CDC. People who are diagnosed with HPV-related head and neck cancer tend to be younger and nonsmokers. People with HPV-positive cancers have a lower risk of death or recurrence, even though these cancers are often diagnosed at a later stage because it develops in difficult-to-detect areas.  
 










To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Treatment of Abscessed Teeth

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about the treatment of abscessed teeth.


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Wednesday 11 April 2018

Dental Intra-Oral Cameras

Intra-Oral Camera Allows You to See What We See

Dr. Agrawal works closely with patients to build a bond of teamwork. One of the ways our team brings this about is by using a high-tech tool called the intra-oral camera. This amazing device is a tiny video camera that displays a closeup image of the inside of your mouth. You are able to view what work needs to be completed and which teeth are doing well. You then become part of each dental decision. You'll really appreciate how this works!


Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Sunday 8 April 2018

The Top 7 Risk Factors for Oral Cancer (Part 1 of 3)

You know your dentist is looking for cavities during regular check-ups, but you may not realize your dentist can check for cancer at the same time. It’s estimated that approximately 51,540 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer and cancers of the throat, tonsils and back of the tongue in 2018.

Regular visits to your dentist can help you detect such cancers early, and changing a few potentially harmful habits may help reduce your chances of developing them. Read on to find out the top risk factors.











Gender 
Men are twice more likely to get oral cancer. The American Cancer Society attributes this to higher rates of alcohol and tobacco use by men, but says more men of a younger age are being diagnosed with HPV-related forms of oral cancer.
 










Age 
Most people who are diagnosed with oral cancer are 55 or older, according to the American Cancer Society. HPV-related oral cancers, however, are often diagnosed in people who are younger.  
 










To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

The Importance of Brushing and Flossing

Learn what the American Dental Association has to about the importance of brushing and flossing daily.

 
The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Wednesday 4 April 2018

White Dental Fillings

A Wide Variety of Filling Choices

For ages, the silver-mercury amalgam has been the typical filling used in dental practices. They work well, are generally affordable, and are covered by insurance companies most of the time. In addition, our practice offers beautiful restorations that are tooth-colored, metal-free, and can actually make your teeth stronger. The primary reason many patients are choosing the white bonded fillings is because they blend into your own natural tooth structure. So nobody even knows you have a filling! They also bond very securely with the healthy tooth structure to decrease the opportunity of future decay. We offer both options, and will be happy to discuss which method would work best for you.


Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Sunday 1 April 2018

Wisdom Teeth

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about wisdom teeth.


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Wednesday 28 March 2018

Sedation Dentistry

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Nitrous oxide, also called "laughing gas," is generally used to make treatment more comfortable. The gas is inhaled through a mask that allows you to breathe in the medication and induces relaxation. Local anesthetic will be administered as necessary in conjunction with nitrous oxide to eliminate pain most of the time.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Friday 23 March 2018

Nutrition: What You Eat Affects Your Teeth

Below is an excerpt from an article found on MouthHealthy.org

Your mouth, teeth, and gums are more than just tools for eating. They’re essential for chewing and swallowing-the first steps in the digestion process. Your mouth is your body’s initial point of contact with the nutrients you consume. So what you put in your mouth impacts not only your general health but also that of your teeth and gums. In fact, if your nutrition is poor, the first signs often show up in your mouth. Here are a few helpful things to know about how what you eat can impact your dental health.

Diet and Tooth Decay
The foods you eat and the beverages you drink can have a direct influence on the incidence and progression of tooth decay, depending upon: 
  • The form of the food-whether it’s liquid, solid, sticky or slow to dissolve makes a difference. 
  • How often you eat sugary foods and beverages and how often you eat or drink acidic foods and beverages. 
  • The nutritional makeup of the food. 
  • The combination of the foods you eat and the order in which you eat them. 
  • Medical conditions you may have, such as gastrointestinal reflux and eating disorders, which can increase risk of cavities and weaken teeth.

How Snacking Affects Your Dental Health
For dental health, it’s recommended that people limit eating and drinking between meals. Of course, sometimes eating between meals must happen. Unfortunately, most people choose foods like sweets and chips for snacks; foods that harm teeth by promoting tooth decay. If you do snack, make it a nutritious choice-such as cheese, yogurt, fruits, vegetables or nuts-for your overall health and the health of your teeth. Did you know that certain foods can put you at risk for cavities and other dental health problems? Here are some MouthHealthy tips.

To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.

The remainder of the article details the following:

  • Recommended Nutritional Guidelines
  • Foods That Harm Your Dental Health
  • Sugar and Your Dental Health
  • How Sugar Substitutes Affect Your Teeth
  • 4 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Cavities

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Sunday 18 March 2018

What if an Object Gets Caught in Your Teeth?

Learn what the American Dental Association's answer is to the question: "What if an Object Gets Caught in Your Teeth?".


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Friday 16 March 2018

5 Reasons Your Smile Is Stronger Than You Think

Below is an excerpt from an article found on MouthHealthy.org

The right smile can leave you laughing, fill you with joy or make you melt with emotion. But, ultimately, the best smile is one that is healthy and strong. Here are some of the “tooth truths” about how tough your teeth really are - and how to keep them that way.

1. Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body.
The shiny, white enamel that covers your teeth is even stronger than bone. This resilient surface is 96 percent mineral, the highest percentage of any tissue in your body - making it durable and damage-resistant.    

2. Your bite is powerful!
Did you know your teeth can exert an average of 200 pounds of pressure when you bite down? That’s probably what tempts us to use our teeth as tools from time to time ñ but as your dentist will remind you, that’s one of the worst habits when it comes to preserving healthy teeth.    

To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.

The remainder of the article details the following:

  • Teeth can last for hundreds of years
  • Strong as they are, teeth can't heal on their own
  • Healthy teeth have the power to resist decay, but they need our help

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Wednesday 14 March 2018

Gum Disease Linked to Heart Disease

Gum Disease Can Silently Contribute to Heart Disease or Stroke

Recent medical research has led many doctors to reach a startling conclusion: gum disease, stroke, and heart disease are connected. Since heart disease is often deadly, it is clear that gum disease is nothing to joke about. The American Dental Association estimates that 80 percent of Americans have gum disease. If this was any other affliction, such as AIDS or tuberculosis, it would be considered a widespread epidemic! Most dentists believe this is what it is. They also know that gum disease won't be labeled epidemic since "no one ever dies from it." The worst that can happen is that you lose your teeth. Not a pleasure by any means – but definitely not a threat to your life. But that's changed.

The American Academy of Periodontology states: "Studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases." Periodontal disease is characterized by an infection of the gums. Bacteria in the gums can move into the bloodstream – directly to the heart.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Sunday 11 March 2018

How Often Should a Senior Citizen Go to the Dentist?

Learn what the American Dental Association's answer is to the question: "How Often Should a Senior Citizen Go to the Dentist?".

 
The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Friday 9 March 2018

Is Sparkling Water Bad for My Teeth?

Below is an excerpt from an article found on MouthHealthy.org

Is the satisfying fizz of your favorite sparkling water putting you at risk for tooth decay? Because any drink with carbonation-including sparkling water-has a higher acid level, some reports have questioned whether sipping sparkling water will weaken your tooth enamel (the hard outer shell of your teeth where cavities first form).

So, Is Sparkling Water Affecting My Teeth?
According to available research, sparkling water is generally fine for your teeth-and here's why. In a study using teeth that were removed as a part of treatment and donated for research, researchers tested to see whether sparkling water would attack tooth enamel more aggressively than regular lab water. The result? The two forms of water were about the same in their effects on tooth enamel. This finding suggests that, even though sparkling water is slightly more acidic than ordinary water, it's all just water to your teeth. 

Tips for Enjoying Sparkling Water-and Protecting Your Teeth

  • Sparkling water is far better for your teeth than sugary drinks. In addition, be sure to drink plenty of regular, fluoridated water, too-it’s the best beverage for your teeth. Water with fluoride naturally helps fight cavities, washes away the leftover food cavity-causing bacteria feast on and keeps your mouth from becoming dry (which can put you at a higher risk of cavities). 
  • Be mindful of what’s in your sparkling water. Citrus-flavored waters often have higher acid levels that does increase the risk of damage to your enamel. Plan to enjoy these in one sitting or with meals. This way, you aren’t sipping it throughout the day and exposing your teeth over and over again to the slightly higher level of acid it contains.
  • Sparkling water brands with added sugar can no longer be considered just sparkling water. They are a sugar-sweetened beverage, which can contribute to your risk of developing cavities. So remember-sparkling or not-plain water is always the best choice.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Wednesday 7 March 2018

The Benefits of Invisalign

Invisalign Enhances Your Confidence

There are several advantages to the Invisalign clear aligner system. The best part is that people won't know you're straightening teeth because the clearness of the aligners renders them practically invisible! Someone would have to be aware the aligners are there, or look very closely, to be able to see them. This gives you more confidence in smiling or talking while you are in treatment.

Patient comfort is another wonderful benefit with Invisalign. The aligners are one piece, without metal or wires to deal with, so you require fewer dental appointments. The lack of braces, wires, or headgear also eliminates temporary mouth irritation.

There is also a convenience factor. Even though you wear the aligners all day and while sleeping, they are easily removable as necessary for eating and brushing your teeth. You can eat or drink what you want while in treatment, without food restrictions. And keeping teeth clean and plaque- free is easy, because there are no braces to get in the way of your brushing and flossing.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Sunday 4 March 2018

Why X-Rays?

Learn what the American Dental Association's answer is to the question: "Why X-Ray?".


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Wednesday 28 February 2018

Dentures Dentist

What Are "Traditional" Dentures?

We use this term to describe what most people think of as dentures. A full set of replacement teeth that can be placed in your mouth, and then removed, without any kind of anchor. A partial denture can be clipped on to existing teeth and fill the space left by missing natural teeth. Other options include overdentures, where dentures snap on to implants placed in the jawbone; bridges, which use crowns to hold the replacements in place for a couple of missing teeth; and dental implants, which can permanently replace one tooth or many.


Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Thursday 22 February 2018

Tips for keeping a beautiful smile!

Keeping your teeth clean, smooth and beautiful...
Proper oral hygiene is your key to a healthy, beautiful smile. Here are our and the American Dental Association's recommendations for at home care:

  • Brush 2-3 times every day with a fluoride toothpaste (it doesn't matter which brand)
  • Floss once a day
  • Eat a healthy diet (fruits, vegetables, etc)
  • Limit consumption of sugary foods and beverages. Soda drinks can destroy teeth faster than almost anything else
  • Eliminate or at least limit use of alcohol, chewing tabacco, and cigarettes

We also recommend using an electric high-speed toothbrush in conjunction with a waterpik for your daily at-home oral care.

And don't forget six-month professional cleanings and checkups. The American Dental Association recommends checkups every six months for those ages four and older.

Professional cleanings by qualified hygienists will remove bacteria and plaque, which can cause serious dental problems if not kept in check.

If you have not been seen recently call our office for an appointment!

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Thursday 15 February 2018

To Floss or Not to Floss..

Lately, there has been a lot of talk about flossing and if it is good or not! Kind of reminds me of coffee, some studies say is good for you and others say it isn't.

Our dental office believes that flossing is beneficial to a person's general oral health. Our staff is trained to address the issues of proper flossing to our patients on an individual need basis. We promote many different tools used to effectively and safely clean between the teeth.

If you are concerned with the recent news reports, please give our office a call to schedule an appointment. We will be happy to review your concerns and make sure you are properly caring for your teeth.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Do White Teeth Mean Healthy Teeth?

Learn what the American Dental Association's answer is to the question: "Do White Teeth Mean Healthy Teeth?".


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Sunday 11 February 2018

Dental Porcelain Veneers

Makeover Your Smile in as Little as Two Visits!

For misshapen teeth, unattractive gaps, or deeply discolored teeth, our porcelain veneers might be what you're looking for. This is quickly and painlessly adjusting crooked teeth so they look as if you've gone through years of orthodontics. Veneers are thin, but very durable, sheets of advanced dental ceramic. They are bonded to teeth in a way that makes them appear straight and uniform, creating your attractive new smile. Another common dental problem we see is chipped, cracked, or worn-down teeth. Veneers can be applied to those teeth to completely conceal a chip or crack and reshape a worn or misshapen tooth. The veneer matches the color of the surrounding teeth and looks just like your natural teeth.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Thursday 8 February 2018

Having a plaque attack?

Plaque is that soft, sticky stuff that builds up on your teeth over time. It contains legions of bacteria. Left untreated it will eventually lead to gum disease, bad breath and tooth loss.

Frequent brushing and flossing are required to keep plaque at bay. But it's virtually impossible to remove all plaque without the skills of your professional dental hygienist. In other words, you're going to need some help.

Call our office today to schedule your next routine teeth cleaning to receive help with your plaque removal!

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Sensitive Teeth

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about sensitive teeth.


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Sunday 4 February 2018

Digital Dental X-rays

75% Less Radiation Than Older X-rays

Introducing digital X-rays, available at our dental practice. Using this technology, an image is taken of your mouth using a digital sensor and downloaded into our computer system, where it is immediately available for review. This machine results in 75% less radiation than previous conventional X-rays. You no longer have to wait for images to develop and there are no more chemical wastes that could pollute the environment.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Thursday 1 February 2018

Why Do Teeth Darken?

Learn what the American Dental Association's answer is to the question: "Why Do Teeth Darken?".


The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890

Sunday 28 January 2018

Regular Dental Cleanings

The Importance of Having Regular Hygiene Visits

One important reason to visit a dentist is to have your teeth cleaned by a trained hygienist. Plaque and tartar build up on teeth over time. Plaque is soft and sticky, but conscientious brushing can often clean off most of it. But plaque can solidify into tartar, which is too difficult to remove with your typical toothbrush and floss. Tartar accumulates under the gumline as well as on the tooth surface. If not removed, you risk more serious problems with your oral health later. Recent research reveals a link between untreated gum disease and serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Getting a teeth-cleaning regularly is a great thing you can do to stay healthy!

Dhiren Agrawal, BDS, MPA, DMD
8640 E. County Rd. 466
The Villages, FL 32162
(352) 502-4890