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Gary E. Alhadef, DDS
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Caring for Your Teeth and Your Health
You may think we dentists only care about our patients’ teeth and gums. Believe me; that’s only the beginning of our concern for you. Click here to read more.
Natural Antioxidants
Antioxidants occur naturally in saliva, and they serve as a defense against bacteria and the over-production of violent sulfur compounds (VSC), the main cause of halitosis or bad breath. As we age, the level of antioxidants in saliva decreases, and scientists think this decrease in salivary antioxidants may also lead to oral cancer – as reported in the Journal of Gerontology – Biological Sciences 2007. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
An Interview With Dr. Alhadef, A Qualified Dentist In Dallas
Q. What is cosmetic dentistry?
A. Cosmetic Dentistry describes any dental procedure designed to improve your overall dental esthetics and smile. It can be in the form of cosmetic dental bonding, porcelain veneers, all-ceramic crowns or even dental implants with porcelain crowns over them. There are numerous options and the pros and cons should be discussed with your cosmetic dentist prior to treatment.
Q. How quickly will I be able to complete my cosmetic dentistry treatment?
A. Cosmetic dental procedures can usually be performed in as little as one or 2 visits. Consult with your dentist to see what procedures are right for you and determine how many visits your procedures will take.
Q. How long will my new smile last?
A. It depends on the type of procedure you have performed and how well you take care of it- including proper home care and regular dental cleanings. Also, if you have bonding done, you want to be aware of eating or drinking things with strong dyes in them which can shorten the life of the restorations. Again, consult with your cosmetic dentist to find out which procedures are best for you.
Q. Is cosmetic dentistry worth the time and the cost?
A. The decision to have cosmetic dentistry performed is a personal one. The benefits and costs involved should be discussed with your cosmetic dentistry. Seek out a dentist that has a lot of experience with cosmetic dentistry and one that keeps up with learning the newest techniques and trends. Most people have found the benefits to be well worth their investment- They continue to enjoy it for many years to come.
Q. Who is a good candidate for cosmetic dentistry?
A. Almost anyone can benefit from cosmetic dentistry- whether it be whitening your teeth, straightening them with Invisalign or doing porcelain veneers or bonding- These procedures will help give you that great smile you have always wanted!
Q. How important is your smile?
A. Your smile says a lot about you. When people see and talk with you there are 2 facial features they most focus on- Your eyes and your smile. A winning smile gives you confidence and self-assurance.
A. Cosmetic Dentistry describes any dental procedure designed to improve your overall dental esthetics and smile. It can be in the form of cosmetic dental bonding, porcelain veneers, all-ceramic crowns or even dental implants with porcelain crowns over them. There are numerous options and the pros and cons should be discussed with your cosmetic dentist prior to treatment.
Q. How quickly will I be able to complete my cosmetic dentistry treatment?
A. Cosmetic dental procedures can usually be performed in as little as one or 2 visits. Consult with your dentist to see what procedures are right for you and determine how many visits your procedures will take.
Q. How long will my new smile last?
A. It depends on the type of procedure you have performed and how well you take care of it- including proper home care and regular dental cleanings. Also, if you have bonding done, you want to be aware of eating or drinking things with strong dyes in them which can shorten the life of the restorations. Again, consult with your cosmetic dentist to find out which procedures are best for you.
Q. Is cosmetic dentistry worth the time and the cost?
A. The decision to have cosmetic dentistry performed is a personal one. The benefits and costs involved should be discussed with your cosmetic dentistry. Seek out a dentist that has a lot of experience with cosmetic dentistry and one that keeps up with learning the newest techniques and trends. Most people have found the benefits to be well worth their investment- They continue to enjoy it for many years to come.
Q. Who is a good candidate for cosmetic dentistry?
A. Almost anyone can benefit from cosmetic dentistry- whether it be whitening your teeth, straightening them with Invisalign or doing porcelain veneers or bonding- These procedures will help give you that great smile you have always wanted!
Q. How important is your smile?
A. Your smile says a lot about you. When people see and talk with you there are 2 facial features they most focus on- Your eyes and your smile. A winning smile gives you confidence and self-assurance.
Monday, January 3, 2011
An Interview featuring Dr. Gary E. Alhadef as Dental Expert on Bizymoms Dallas
Dr.Gary E. Alhadef is a dentist and who has answered some of the common questions that Bizymoms visitors have about invisalign.
Q. What is an invisalign?
A. Invisalign is often called "invisible braces." By wearing a series of clear plastic aligners we can quickly straighten your teeth without wearing unsightly metal bands and brackets.
Q. How does Invisalign work?
A. The Invisalign treatment plan is custom designed by Dr. Alhadef and the Invisalign team. Each aligner worn is progressively straighter until all the teeth are aligned- this is done quickly and efficiently, often faster than traditional braces.
Q. What are the primary benefits of Invisalign?
A. No metal bands, brackets and wires. You can barely notice the aligners when they are in so they are very esthetic. Taking them out to eat and brushing and flossing makes them very hygiene-friendly.
Q. How long does the Invisalign treatment take?
A. Average treatment time varies per case, typically 4-18 months.
Q. How much does Invisalign cost?
A. Cost varies depending on complexity but typically less than traditional braces
Q. Who uses Invisalign?
A. Age varies from the teens to the elderly.Typically, anyone 12 and older can do it!
Q. Are there certain dental conditions that automatically exclude someone from being an eligible patient?
A. Very rare to not be eligible for Invisalign- as long as you wear the aligners as recommended they work!
Q. How can we contact Dr. Alhadef if we have further questions?
A. I can be reached by email at: Alhadefdds@aol.com or through my websites: www.dallascosmeticdental.com or www.theathletesdentist.com
Q. What is an invisalign?
A. Invisalign is often called "invisible braces." By wearing a series of clear plastic aligners we can quickly straighten your teeth without wearing unsightly metal bands and brackets.
Q. How does Invisalign work?
A. The Invisalign treatment plan is custom designed by Dr. Alhadef and the Invisalign team. Each aligner worn is progressively straighter until all the teeth are aligned- this is done quickly and efficiently, often faster than traditional braces.
Q. What are the primary benefits of Invisalign?
A. No metal bands, brackets and wires. You can barely notice the aligners when they are in so they are very esthetic. Taking them out to eat and brushing and flossing makes them very hygiene-friendly.
Q. How long does the Invisalign treatment take?
A. Average treatment time varies per case, typically 4-18 months.
Q. How much does Invisalign cost?
A. Cost varies depending on complexity but typically less than traditional braces
Q. Who uses Invisalign?
A. Age varies from the teens to the elderly.Typically, anyone 12 and older can do it!
Q. Are there certain dental conditions that automatically exclude someone from being an eligible patient?
A. Very rare to not be eligible for Invisalign- as long as you wear the aligners as recommended they work!
Q. How can we contact Dr. Alhadef if we have further questions?
A. I can be reached by email at: Alhadefdds@aol.com or through my websites: www.dallascosmeticdental.com or www.theathletesdentist.com
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
DR. GARY E. ALHADEF OF DALLAS, TEXAS INVITED TO JOIN TOP 3 DENTISTS ADVISORY BOARD
Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Gary E. Alhadef has been hand selected to help Top 3 Dentists to continue to be the best source of dental information
The Advisory Board of Top 3 Dentists is a network of highly trained and well respected dentists who have agreed to give Top 3 Dentists essential help on a constant basis. Their specialties, including clinical dentistry, organizational development, technology, policy, and outreach, cover the gamut making this a highly distinguished designation. Their abilities, experience, and knowledge were selected for how they complement Top 3 Dentists’ mission and goals; to educate consumers in advances in dentistry.
Dr. Alhadef will be involved in advising Top 3 Dentists in its important decision-making process in its day-to-day work. Sometimes questions will be posed to the whole group; sometimes individual members will be consulted. Top 3 Dentists is excited about this new development and is looking forward to utilizing Dr. Alhadef and his vast knowledge of cosmetic dentistry.
Dr. Alhadef completed his undergraduate work at The University of Texas at Austin, and received his DDS degree from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas. Established in 1986 in Preston Center, Dr. Alhadef has an esthetically focused dental health practice and treats patients of all ages. Using the latest dental technologies, Dr. Alhadef and his highly trained staff provide comprehensive dental care. He is rapidly becoming known as Dallas’s leading cosmetic dentist due to his commitment and passion for his field. The office of Dallas cosmetic dentist Dr. Gary Alhadef, serves patients in Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Irving, Grapevine, Texas, and the surrounding areas.
Top3Dentists (T3D) is dedicated to providing patients and dentists with relevant information and assessments of top dental professionals throughout the United States. As a resource for outstanding dental professionals who aim to distinguish their practice, T3D aims to educate the public regarding dentistry, dental training, specialties, accolades and technology. Using an unbiased panel of dental professionals, Top Dentists are nominated, reviewed and given a rating system based on actual patient, instructor, mentor, staff and laboratory feedback.
To learn more information about Dr. Alhadef, visit his profile page at http://www.top3dentists.com/dentists/81 or call his office at 469-619-0870
The Advisory Board of Top 3 Dentists is a network of highly trained and well respected dentists who have agreed to give Top 3 Dentists essential help on a constant basis. Their specialties, including clinical dentistry, organizational development, technology, policy, and outreach, cover the gamut making this a highly distinguished designation. Their abilities, experience, and knowledge were selected for how they complement Top 3 Dentists’ mission and goals; to educate consumers in advances in dentistry.
Dr. Alhadef will be involved in advising Top 3 Dentists in its important decision-making process in its day-to-day work. Sometimes questions will be posed to the whole group; sometimes individual members will be consulted. Top 3 Dentists is excited about this new development and is looking forward to utilizing Dr. Alhadef and his vast knowledge of cosmetic dentistry.
Dr. Alhadef completed his undergraduate work at The University of Texas at Austin, and received his DDS degree from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas. Established in 1986 in Preston Center, Dr. Alhadef has an esthetically focused dental health practice and treats patients of all ages. Using the latest dental technologies, Dr. Alhadef and his highly trained staff provide comprehensive dental care. He is rapidly becoming known as Dallas’s leading cosmetic dentist due to his commitment and passion for his field. The office of Dallas cosmetic dentist Dr. Gary Alhadef, serves patients in Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Irving, Grapevine, Texas, and the surrounding areas.
Top3Dentists (T3D) is dedicated to providing patients and dentists with relevant information and assessments of top dental professionals throughout the United States. As a resource for outstanding dental professionals who aim to distinguish their practice, T3D aims to educate the public regarding dentistry, dental training, specialties, accolades and technology. Using an unbiased panel of dental professionals, Top Dentists are nominated, reviewed and given a rating system based on actual patient, instructor, mentor, staff and laboratory feedback.
To learn more information about Dr. Alhadef, visit his profile page at http://www.top3dentists.com/dentists/81 or call his office at 469-619-0870
Monday, October 4, 2010
Top Dentist, Dr. Gary E. Alhadef of Dallas, Texas Utilizes VELscope Technology in Oral Cancer Detection, As Featured On "The Dr. Oz Show"
As seen on the Friday, October 1st broadcast of "The Dr. Oz Show", the VELscope system, a technology utilized by top dentist Dr. Gary E. Alhadef, is an outstanding means of oral cancer detection. The show’s theme, entitled, "A Trip to the Dentist Could Save Your Life," is indicative of the powerful potential that dentistry has in facilitating and managing overall health and wellness. VELscope is a powerful tool in detecting oral abnormalities. Specifically designed to help dentists like Dr. Alhadef, the VELscope emits a unique blue-spectrum light, which lights up the healthy tissues of the mouth in a distinctive pattern. The way Dr. Alhadef distinguishes visibly traumatized areas is by noting where the visual spectrum of the blue-light is disturbed. By using the VELscope, Dr. Alhadef can confidently find abnormalities in the mouth, assisting greatly in early cancer detection for his patients and his community.
Dr. Mehmet Oz developed his own show after his appearances on “The Oprah Winfrey Show". Due to his popularity and credibility, Dr. Oz has become an advocate for health, disease detention, and illness prevention. On the aforementioned show, Dr. Levine, D.M.D., P.C. appears with Dr. Oz as they reveal sobering facts about incidents of oral cancer and the urgent need for earlier detection. This development comes on the heels The World Health Organization’s (WHO) recent recognition of VELscope as a revolutionary tool in addressing global health concerns. The VELscope system is one of only eight devices to be so honored, and the only dental device.
For more information on VELscope technology, visit www.velscope.com.
About the Dentist
A native "Dallasite", Dr. Alhadef completed his undergraduate work at The University of Texas at Austin, and received his DDS degree from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas. Established in 1986 in Preston Center, Dr. Alhadef has an esthetically focused dental health practice and treats patients of all ages. Using the latest dental technologies, Dr. Alhadef and his highly trained staff provide comprehensive dental care.
Dr. Alhadef advanced training is conducted with other prominent cosmetic dentists who share his passion for the Art of Dentistry. Dr. Alhadef dedicates his yearly postgraduate dental education to learning about several dental disciplines. He is rapidly becoming known as Dallas's leading cosmetic dentist due to his commitment and passion for his field. Dr. Alhadef has made network appearances to discuss state of the art dental technology and treatment. His level of expertise has led him to be published in The Washington Post. Dr. Alhadef makes it his priority to educate his community in presentations to local schools on dental health and care.
Memberships Include:
Dr. Alhadef is married and has 4 sons. His personal interests include golf, flying, traveling, coaching his children's sports teams, and spending time with his wife and children.
Dr. Mehmet Oz developed his own show after his appearances on “The Oprah Winfrey Show". Due to his popularity and credibility, Dr. Oz has become an advocate for health, disease detention, and illness prevention. On the aforementioned show, Dr. Levine, D.M.D., P.C. appears with Dr. Oz as they reveal sobering facts about incidents of oral cancer and the urgent need for earlier detection. This development comes on the heels The World Health Organization’s (WHO) recent recognition of VELscope as a revolutionary tool in addressing global health concerns. The VELscope system is one of only eight devices to be so honored, and the only dental device.
For more information on VELscope technology, visit www.velscope.com.
About the Dentist
A native "Dallasite", Dr. Alhadef completed his undergraduate work at The University of Texas at Austin, and received his DDS degree from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas. Established in 1986 in Preston Center, Dr. Alhadef has an esthetically focused dental health practice and treats patients of all ages. Using the latest dental technologies, Dr. Alhadef and his highly trained staff provide comprehensive dental care.
Dr. Alhadef advanced training is conducted with other prominent cosmetic dentists who share his passion for the Art of Dentistry. Dr. Alhadef dedicates his yearly postgraduate dental education to learning about several dental disciplines. He is rapidly becoming known as Dallas's leading cosmetic dentist due to his commitment and passion for his field. Dr. Alhadef has made network appearances to discuss state of the art dental technology and treatment. His level of expertise has led him to be published in The Washington Post. Dr. Alhadef makes it his priority to educate his community in presentations to local schools on dental health and care.
Memberships Include:
- American Dental Association Member
- Texas Dental Association Member
- Dallas County Dental Society Member
- Member of American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Since 1987
- LVI Graduate- Full Mouth Reconstruction
- Former President - Alpha Omega Dental Organization
- Invisalign® Certified
- International Association for Orthodontics
- DDS Study Club
Dr. Alhadef is married and has 4 sons. His personal interests include golf, flying, traveling, coaching his children's sports teams, and spending time with his wife and children.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Metal-Free Fillings
Many of us have received amalgam (silver) fillings, but Dr. Alhadef’s cosmetic dentistry practice has made noticeable metal fillings a thing of the past. Aside from creating a more appealing smile visually, metal-free fillings may also be better for your health. Despite warnings and scientific proof that metal-free fillings are a better choice than metal amalgam fillings, many patients are not well-informed as to the benefits of metal-free fillings and the risks of metal amalgam fillings.
Dangers of Amalgam
Most metal amalgam fillings are 50% mercury. One specific danger of these mercury fillings is amalgam poisoning. Signs of amalgam poisoning include:
-Difficulty in concentration and memory
-Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
-Sleep disturbances and restlessness
-Numbness or pain in the arms and legs
-Bleeding gums
Choosing Metal-Free
Metal-free fillings are a great choice if you need new fillings or want to replace metal ones. The advantages to metal free fillings include:
-No release of toxins into the body
-Decreased sensitivity to heat and cold
-Aesthetically appealing and more natural looking
-Stronger bonding to prevent future tooth fractures
-Less vulnerable to pain when biting
Types of Metal-Free Fillings
Metal free fillings come in two specific options.
-Composite Resin dental fillings are made of a plastic dental resin. They are strong, durable, and create a natural looking smile. When this material is used to fill cavities, its color looks like your natural tooth.
-Porcelain fillings are also available and have certain advantages. These fillings require less of your natural tooth material to be removed and don’t transfer hot and cold temperatures as much as metal fillings do.
If you have a new cavity or you want to have old fillings replaced, please contact cosmetic dentist Dr. Gary Alhadef in his Dallas, Texas dental office to schedule a consultation.
Dangers of Amalgam
Most metal amalgam fillings are 50% mercury. One specific danger of these mercury fillings is amalgam poisoning. Signs of amalgam poisoning include:
-Difficulty in concentration and memory
-Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
-Sleep disturbances and restlessness
-Numbness or pain in the arms and legs
-Bleeding gums
Choosing Metal-Free
Metal-free fillings are a great choice if you need new fillings or want to replace metal ones. The advantages to metal free fillings include:
-No release of toxins into the body
-Decreased sensitivity to heat and cold
-Aesthetically appealing and more natural looking
-Stronger bonding to prevent future tooth fractures
-Less vulnerable to pain when biting
Types of Metal-Free Fillings
Metal free fillings come in two specific options.
-Composite Resin dental fillings are made of a plastic dental resin. They are strong, durable, and create a natural looking smile. When this material is used to fill cavities, its color looks like your natural tooth.
-Porcelain fillings are also available and have certain advantages. These fillings require less of your natural tooth material to be removed and don’t transfer hot and cold temperatures as much as metal fillings do.
If you have a new cavity or you want to have old fillings replaced, please contact cosmetic dentist Dr. Gary Alhadef in his Dallas, Texas dental office to schedule a consultation.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Dental Implants
Dental care has made vast improvements during our lifetime, yet millions of Americans experience tooth loss because of injury, gum disease and tooth decay. For several years, the only way to replace a missing tooth was with dentures or a dental bridge. However many cosmetic dentists like Dr. Gary Alhadef now offer dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are replacement tooth roots that are placed within the jawbone after a tooth is lost. After the implant is in place, a replacement tooth is attached or it may be used to anchor a dental bridge more securely. Implants are typically made from and provide a solid foundation for permanent or removable teeth that are designed to replace missing teeth. By using an implant to fill the space in your smile, you may also prevent other dental problems.
Types of Implants
There are three most common types of dental implants:
Root Form Implant
Root form dental implants are the most common. A root form implant is a screw-type implant shaped like the root of a tooth. It is placed under the gums and directly into the jawbone.
Plate Form Implant
If the jawbone has deteriorated, too short or too narrow for a root form implant, a plate dental implant may be used. The plate form is a longer, flat piece of titanium placed beneath the gums and on top of the jawbone.
Subperiosteal Implants
These implants are used only when there is not enough jawbone to support either a root dental implant or a plate dental implant. This dental implant is custom made and attached directly to the jawbone to strengthen the surface.
The Advantages of Dental Implants
Making the decision to have dental implants can genuinely be life altering for someone who has missing teeth. There are numerous advantages to having permanent a replacement for a lost tooth. Dental implants:
-Look and feel like your own teeth
-Are designed to fuse with your jawbone so they become permanent
-Allow you to speak without the worry that your dentures/teeth may slip
-Eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures
-Work like your own teeth, allowing you to eat foods with confidence
-Give you back your smile and help you feel better about yourself
-Are durable and will last many years –with good care, some implants last a lifetime
It’s important to be aware that dental implants require the same care as real teeth, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.
If you are missing one or several teeth and would like to consider implant dentistry to replace them, contact cosmetic dentist Dr. Gary Alhadef in his Dallas, Texas dental office to schedule a consultation.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are replacement tooth roots that are placed within the jawbone after a tooth is lost. After the implant is in place, a replacement tooth is attached or it may be used to anchor a dental bridge more securely. Implants are typically made from and provide a solid foundation for permanent or removable teeth that are designed to replace missing teeth. By using an implant to fill the space in your smile, you may also prevent other dental problems.
Types of Implants
There are three most common types of dental implants:
Root Form Implant
Root form dental implants are the most common. A root form implant is a screw-type implant shaped like the root of a tooth. It is placed under the gums and directly into the jawbone.
Plate Form Implant
If the jawbone has deteriorated, too short or too narrow for a root form implant, a plate dental implant may be used. The plate form is a longer, flat piece of titanium placed beneath the gums and on top of the jawbone.
Subperiosteal Implants
These implants are used only when there is not enough jawbone to support either a root dental implant or a plate dental implant. This dental implant is custom made and attached directly to the jawbone to strengthen the surface.
The Advantages of Dental Implants
Making the decision to have dental implants can genuinely be life altering for someone who has missing teeth. There are numerous advantages to having permanent a replacement for a lost tooth. Dental implants:
-Look and feel like your own teeth
-Are designed to fuse with your jawbone so they become permanent
-Allow you to speak without the worry that your dentures/teeth may slip
-Eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures
-Work like your own teeth, allowing you to eat foods with confidence
-Give you back your smile and help you feel better about yourself
-Are durable and will last many years –with good care, some implants last a lifetime
It’s important to be aware that dental implants require the same care as real teeth, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.
If you are missing one or several teeth and would like to consider implant dentistry to replace them, contact cosmetic dentist Dr. Gary Alhadef in his Dallas, Texas dental office to schedule a consultation.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Migraines? Maybe it is TMJ/TMD
Dr. Gary Alhadef, Dallas cosmetic and neuromuscular dentist, sees many patients who complain of chronic migraine headaches. Many times, these patients have unaligned jaws, a problem called TMJ or TMD. Both terms are used to describe Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), the problem of misalignment in the jaw.
This disorder does not cause migraines, although the headaches feel very similar to the pain of a migraine headache. True migraines are vascular in nature, meaning they often involve your blood vessels. On the other hand, TMJ/TMD headaches are caused by the tension of your misaligned jaw bone. In these cases, fixing the position of your jaw can often make the headaches dissipate. Dr. Alhadef is a neuromuscular dentist who truly understands the connection between the pain you feel in your body and the importance of having your jaw be properly aligned.
How TMJ/TMD Can Cause Headaches
One of the most common causes of jaw misalignment and the subsequent tensions it causes is teeth grinding or clenching. It’s quite common for adults to grind or clench their teeth in their sleep or without otherwise being aware they are doing so. The friction of grinding can damage the joints of your jaw, while clenching your teeth can apply up to 300 pounds of pressure, causing fatigue in the jaw muscles. The tension caused by TMJ/TMD aggravates the jaw and leads to the chronic pain you feel.
How to Find Relief
Proper jaw placement is imperative in the way your body feels. When your jaw is aligned correctly the rest of your body can work properly much more easily. Dr. Alhadef can take you help educate you on the best way to properly align your jaw – whether through a procedure or by wearing a device. After correcting your jaw alignment, your headaches and muscle tensions should be alleviated so that you can feel and function at your best.
If you live in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area and would like to learn more about how Dr. Alhadef can help relieve the headaches you experience from poor jaw alignment, please contact Dallas, Texas cosmetic and neuromuscular dentist, Dr. Gary Alhadef, today to schedule a consultation.
This disorder does not cause migraines, although the headaches feel very similar to the pain of a migraine headache. True migraines are vascular in nature, meaning they often involve your blood vessels. On the other hand, TMJ/TMD headaches are caused by the tension of your misaligned jaw bone. In these cases, fixing the position of your jaw can often make the headaches dissipate. Dr. Alhadef is a neuromuscular dentist who truly understands the connection between the pain you feel in your body and the importance of having your jaw be properly aligned.
How TMJ/TMD Can Cause Headaches
One of the most common causes of jaw misalignment and the subsequent tensions it causes is teeth grinding or clenching. It’s quite common for adults to grind or clench their teeth in their sleep or without otherwise being aware they are doing so. The friction of grinding can damage the joints of your jaw, while clenching your teeth can apply up to 300 pounds of pressure, causing fatigue in the jaw muscles. The tension caused by TMJ/TMD aggravates the jaw and leads to the chronic pain you feel.
How to Find Relief
Proper jaw placement is imperative in the way your body feels. When your jaw is aligned correctly the rest of your body can work properly much more easily. Dr. Alhadef can take you help educate you on the best way to properly align your jaw – whether through a procedure or by wearing a device. After correcting your jaw alignment, your headaches and muscle tensions should be alleviated so that you can feel and function at your best.
If you live in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area and would like to learn more about how Dr. Alhadef can help relieve the headaches you experience from poor jaw alignment, please contact Dallas, Texas cosmetic and neuromuscular dentist, Dr. Gary Alhadef, today to schedule a consultation.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
How Your Gums Affect Your Overall Health
Research has shown, and experts agree, that there is a connection between gum disease and other chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and respiratory infections. Keeping your gums healthy may not only keep gum disease at bay, but it may also help manage or prevent other health conditions. Dr. Gary Alhadef is a Dallas, Texas cosmetic dentist who has also worked with numerous dental problems for more than 20 years and can help you achieve and maintain healthy gums.
What is Gum Disease?
Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. It can affect one or many teeth and begins when the bacteria in plaque causes the gums to become inflamed, red, and bleed easily, but usually does not cause pain. Untreated gingivitis can advance to the more serious disease called periodontitis. This disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and the bones surrounding your teeth. It can lead to serious complications including tooth loss.
Gum Disease and Other Health Problems
There are several health problems associated with poor gum health.
Heart Disease
Research has found that people with gum disease are twice as likely to suffer from Coronary Artery Disease as those with healthy gums. Oral bacteria can enter the blood stream and attach to fatty plaques in the heart’s blood vessels. Clots can block normal blood flow, restricting oxygen required for the heart to function. This can cause a heart attack.
Premature Birth
Risk factors like smoking, alcohol, and drugs are known to cause birth issues. Evidence also suggests that gum disease is a risk factor. Pregnant women with unhealthy gums are seven times more likely to have a premature baby or one with a low birth weight.
Diabetes
Diabetics are more likely to have gum disease than those who are not, likely because diabetics are susceptible to contracting infections. The relationship between gum disease and diabetes works both ways – gum disease can make it difficult to control blood sugar.
Bacterial Respiratory Infections
Bacterial respiratory infections can be caused by inhaling small droplets from the mouth and throat into the lungs. These droplets contain bacteria that multiply in the lungs and lead to damage. Research also indicates that bacteria found in the mouth and throat can worsen existing lung conditions.
To learn more about how Dr. Gary Alhadef can help you maintain healthy gums, please contact his Dallas, Texas dental office to discuss gum disease by scheduling a consultation.
What is Gum Disease?
Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. It can affect one or many teeth and begins when the bacteria in plaque causes the gums to become inflamed, red, and bleed easily, but usually does not cause pain. Untreated gingivitis can advance to the more serious disease called periodontitis. This disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and the bones surrounding your teeth. It can lead to serious complications including tooth loss.
Gum Disease and Other Health Problems
There are several health problems associated with poor gum health.
Heart Disease
Research has found that people with gum disease are twice as likely to suffer from Coronary Artery Disease as those with healthy gums. Oral bacteria can enter the blood stream and attach to fatty plaques in the heart’s blood vessels. Clots can block normal blood flow, restricting oxygen required for the heart to function. This can cause a heart attack.
Premature Birth
Risk factors like smoking, alcohol, and drugs are known to cause birth issues. Evidence also suggests that gum disease is a risk factor. Pregnant women with unhealthy gums are seven times more likely to have a premature baby or one with a low birth weight.
Diabetes
Diabetics are more likely to have gum disease than those who are not, likely because diabetics are susceptible to contracting infections. The relationship between gum disease and diabetes works both ways – gum disease can make it difficult to control blood sugar.
Bacterial Respiratory Infections
Bacterial respiratory infections can be caused by inhaling small droplets from the mouth and throat into the lungs. These droplets contain bacteria that multiply in the lungs and lead to damage. Research also indicates that bacteria found in the mouth and throat can worsen existing lung conditions.
To learn more about how Dr. Gary Alhadef can help you maintain healthy gums, please contact his Dallas, Texas dental office to discuss gum disease by scheduling a consultation.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Porcelain Veneers vs. Dental Crowns
Porcelain veneers and dental crowns are both wonderful cosmetic procedures for correcting or enhancing the look of your smile.
The greatest difference between the two is the amount of your tooth's surface that is covered by each procedure. Dental crowns typically encase an entire tooth. Porcelain veneers cover the surface that shows when you smile.
Dental Crowns.
A dental crown is cemented onto a tooth after it has been reduced in size. To prepare your tooth for the crown, Dr. Alhadef will grind down all sides of your tooth to reduce the overall size and create a tapered shape. The dental crown made for your tooth will fit over the newly shaped tooth and be cemented into place, giving your tooth a whole near appearance.
Porcelain Veneers
The classic porcelain veneer is a very thin ceramic covering that is bonded onto your tooth. As noted above, a dental crown encases the entire tooth, but a veneer only covers the area that shows when you smile. A porcelain veneer is also much thinner than a dental crown and the procedure requires minimal shaving of the tooth in preparation for bonding.
Uses For Each Procedure
There are three main reasons to decide to use a dental crown or a porcelain veneer.
Dental Crowns:
To rebuild teeth that are badly broken or decayed.
To offer a strong surface for a tooth used for chewing and biting
To give a significant new appearance to the entire tooth (not just the surface)
Porcelain Veneers:
To improve the color and give a minor shape change for a tooth.
To enhance a tooth that is generally healthy with minimal damage
To create a beautiful, straight smile in lieu of braces or other orthodontics
If you live in the Dallas area and would like to learn more about how Dr. Alhadef can improve your smile with dental crowns or porcelain veneers, please contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
The greatest difference between the two is the amount of your tooth's surface that is covered by each procedure. Dental crowns typically encase an entire tooth. Porcelain veneers cover the surface that shows when you smile.
Dental Crowns.
A dental crown is cemented onto a tooth after it has been reduced in size. To prepare your tooth for the crown, Dr. Alhadef will grind down all sides of your tooth to reduce the overall size and create a tapered shape. The dental crown made for your tooth will fit over the newly shaped tooth and be cemented into place, giving your tooth a whole near appearance.
Porcelain Veneers
The classic porcelain veneer is a very thin ceramic covering that is bonded onto your tooth. As noted above, a dental crown encases the entire tooth, but a veneer only covers the area that shows when you smile. A porcelain veneer is also much thinner than a dental crown and the procedure requires minimal shaving of the tooth in preparation for bonding.
Uses For Each Procedure
There are three main reasons to decide to use a dental crown or a porcelain veneer.
Dental Crowns:
To rebuild teeth that are badly broken or decayed.
To offer a strong surface for a tooth used for chewing and biting
To give a significant new appearance to the entire tooth (not just the surface)
Porcelain Veneers:
To improve the color and give a minor shape change for a tooth.
To enhance a tooth that is generally healthy with minimal damage
To create a beautiful, straight smile in lieu of braces or other orthodontics
If you live in the Dallas area and would like to learn more about how Dr. Alhadef can improve your smile with dental crowns or porcelain veneers, please contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is responsible for one death per hour in the United States. The five year survival rate has not improved over the past 30 years. Many oral cancers are diagnosed in a late stage resulting in poor outcomes. Dr. Alhadef has the training and power to change these poor statistics and save lives. Call Dr. Alhadef today and schedule your screening.
Labels: Dr. Alhadef, oral cancer
posted by Gary E.Alhadef,DDS and Staff at 10:48 AM
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Gary E. Alhadef, DDS
8226 Douglas Ave Suite 753
Dallas, Tx 75225
