Dentist Birmingham AL

Wisdom teeth are a leftover result of evolutionary changes. The problem is, however, that the average human mouth doesn’t have room for wisdom teeth to grow.

If you’re concerned about your oral health and the appearance of wisdom teeth symptoms, check for these signs that you need wisdom teeth removed.

Oral Aches and Pains

When wisdom teeth begin to grow, you’ll likely begin to experience some notable pain and discomfort. In some cases, pain will subside, and wisdom teeth can grow safely. In other cases, the pain can become debilitating, leaving extraction as the best option.

Dentists and oral surgeons can take x-rays of your mouth to assist with wisdom teeth management. They’ll assess to what degree the wisdom teeth are affecting your mouth and decide whether wisdom teeth extractions are necessary.

Your Wisdom Teeth Are Impacted

This is the previously described situation where pain can potentially become overwhelming. Having impacted wisdom teeth essentially means that there is not enough room for your wisdom teeth to emerge from the gums. As a result, you’ll experience bleeding gums, jaw pain, and difficulty chewing. In some unusual cases, you may not experience any symptoms at all.

Fortunately, dentists know that wisdom teeth begin to form between the ages of 17 and 21 and will begin checking then. Visiting your dentist regularly can potentially spare you a lot of pain, and at most you’ll have to deal with some outpatient oral surgery to have them removed.

Your Teeth Are Crooked or Damaged

In the event that wisdom teeth emerge and overcrowd the mouth, they’re going to push other teeth to make room. This results in crooked or damaged teeth as they struggle to fit together. There simply isn’t enough room for another set of molars, and you’re probably better off getting them removed.

Sinus Issues or Infections

Ear, nose, and oral health are all closely intertwined. The pressure of new teeth growing in the mouth can put undue pressure on the sinuses as they develop roots. You may begin to experience pain in the sinuses, unexpected congestion, or headaches. This is not incredibly common, but still may be something to look out for.

Cavities, Gum Inflammation, and Cysts

The overcrowding of teeth can create a potential host of health issues. It’s very easy for gums to pick up bacteria after wisdom teeth emerge. This infection is called Pericoronitis and can be treated with antibiotics. However, if the core issue is not addressed, then infection can easily start up again.

Crowded, crooked teeth can also make it more difficult to clean your teeth. This quickly leads to cavities, gum disease, or even tooth loss. More severe issues can appear by way of cysts, fluid-filled sacs that can destroy teeth and roots.

Wisdom Teeth Consultations with Stuart Curry Dentistry

Stuart Curry Dentistry provides a full array of preventive dentistry services to help you avoid problems with wisdom teeth. We’ll check teenagers and young adults regularly for signs of potential issues and make recommendations for treatment accordingly.

Wisdom tooth removal is an outpatient, surgical procedure that sees patients recover quickly with rest and medication. It can help avoid numerous potential health problems and keep your smile lasting longer.

If you need a consultation regarding wisdom tooth issues, contact Stuart Curry Dentistry today at (205)-972-3831 or schedule an appointment today.

As an adult, you’ve been brushing for so long that you probably don’t consider that you’re making mistakes when brushing your teeth.

A proper tooth brushing is the best way to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Make sure you’re taking care of your mouth by avoiding these mistakes.

Your Brushing Method is Wrong

For whatever reason, a person brushing their teeth is always depicted as brushing their teeth with harsh back and forth motions. In reality, this type of motion can be harsh on the enamel and gums. Instead of scrubbing your teeth like they’re floor tiles, take a gentle approach with your teeth and gums.

Gently brush in slow circles one section at a time while holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle. Plaque is soft and easy to brush, but you have to actually hit every area. Don’t just focus on your front teeth but reach far back and brush those molars as well. Be sure to get right up to the gum line, as well.

You Don’t Brush Long Enough

It’s recommended that you take about 2 minutes to brush all of your teeth. We generally tend to rush our oral hygiene habits as we rush to school, work, or just want to get to bed. You can help remind yourself by setting a timer on your phone each time you brush your teeth. Rushing through the process is how you miss key areas, and repeatedly neglecting those areas leads to cavities and gum disease.

You’re Using the Wrong Toothbrush

Many people use hard bristle brushes thinking that it will be more effective at removing plaque. The truth is that soft bristles are more effective due to their ability to flex, bend, and brush hard to reach areas. A soft or extra soft brush is also easier on the gums and avoids accidental bleeding.

Additionally, make sure to replace your toothbrush regularly. Whether it’s due to laziness or not wanting to adjust to a new brush, we let old toothbrushes sit for way too long. The bristles eventually wear out and are no longer effective at keeping your teeth clean.

You Brush Too Soon After Eating

While it’s commendable that you want to actively keep your mouth clean, brushing too soon after eating is a bad idea. There are acids present in your mouth after eating and drinking. Your saliva alone is pretty effective at washing away these chemicals. If you start brushing while the acid is still present, you’re effectively brushing it into the enamel and helping it harm your teeth.

A better way to immediately help your mouth is to drink and swish your mouth out with water. This will help you rid your mouth of food debris and clean those chewing surfaces of excess gunk. Give yourself about 20-30 minutes and then feel free to brush away.

Avoid Brushing Mistakes and Keep Teeth Clean with Stuart Curry Dentistry

Stuart Curry Dentistry is a general and cosmetic dentistry facility committed to giving you a clean, healthy smile. We know that many patients think of dental appointments as being cold, uncomfortable, or even painful. That’s why we insist on providing high-quality, pampering care that you won’t find at any other dental facility.

If you’re ready to feel good about your oral hygiene and show off your smile, schedule an appointment with Stuart Curry Dentistry today!

The differences between metal braces vs invisible braces involves more than just appearance. When it comes to improving your smile, you’ll want to weigh the different benefits of metal braces or Invisalign.

Below, we explain the scenarios where each treatment option applies, the treatment times of each, and how your smile and overall oral health can benefit from braces.

Metal Braces vs Invisible Braces – Know the Differences

Traditional Metal Braces

Treatment Time

The first benefit of traditional metal braces is that treatment time is generally shorter than Invisalign. This is because metal braces are fixed inside of your mouth and cannot be removed without a specialist. They’re always in place to do their job without ever having to think about doing anything.

Cleaning

You need to be diligent when you brush and floss your teeth with metal braces. The brackets and wires leave opportunity for food to get stuck that much easier. You need to be sure to thoroughly clean and rinse your mouth throughout the entire straightening process.

Looks

This is generally where invisible braces make their bread and butter. Metal braces are very visible and cover the front side of your teeth. Oral care providers will try to spice up your orthodontic treatment by providing various color options so that you can have some fun.

Affordability and Effectiveness

Metal braces are generally more affordable than Invisalign but can increase in cost when treating more severe issues. They are universally effective in treating and straightening your teeth regardless of the problem. You just need to follow up regularly to allow your orthodontist to make adjustments to a device attached to the brackets. There’s a reason why metal braces continue to be used to perfect your smile and teeth.

Invisible Braces

Treatment Time

Invisalign can be very competitive with metal braces in regard to treatment time when the circumstances allow. Your treatment will vary based upon the extent of your issue. With that

being said, more complicated orthodontic problems cannot be treated at all by invisible braces. Your doctor will explain your options in more detail.

Treatment time will also fluctuate based upon patient compliance with the program. Since you are able to constantly remove invisible braces, you have to be very diligent about putting them back into your mouth. You should be wearing them for at least 22 hours a day.

Cleaning

Cleaning your mouth with Invisalign is incredibly easy as you can remove them when eating or drinking. There are no wires or brackets for food to get caught in, and nothing to impede your brushing or flossing. You will need to regularly clean your Invisalign braces, however.

Looks

Again, this is the reason most people choose invisible braces. Invisalign is designed to straighten your teeth while also being virtually invisible. You can reap the benefits of a healthier smile while keeping your treatment a secret.

Affordability and Effectiveness

Invisalign tends to cost the same as high-end of traditional brace costs if not more. They are also technically less effective as they aren’t suitable for every type of orthodontic scenario. In the cases that they are usable, they are extremely effective so long as the patient is disciplined with their treatment. Not only do you need to keep them in place, but you need to follow up regularly to get aligners reshaped.

Metal Braces vs Invisible Braces – Conclusion

When it comes to metal braces vs invisible braces, which is better? The answer depends on your personal needs and tastes. Your orthodontist will inform you if you are even eligible for Invisalign depending upon your condition. From there, you’ll need to consider the costs and how responsible you are about following your treatment regimen.

For teeth-straightening options provided by Stuart Curry Dentistry, schedule an appointment with us today at our Birmingham, AL office. You can also give us a call at (205)-972-3831.

If you’re not on top of your dental care, it might be hard to identify when it’s appropriate to seek an emergency dental appointment. Dental emergencies need to be taken seriously, however, as they’re not only tremendously painful, but possibly life-threatening.

To help you understand when it’s time to seek emergency dental care, the professionals at Stuart Curry Dentistry are here to provide this helpful guide.

An Emergency Dental Appointment for Oral Infections?

Serious gum or tooth infection can be incredibly painful, and even spread to vital areas such as the heart if left untreated. If your infection is causing your jaw to swell, or if the pain is not being addressed with store-bought medication, call your dentist for an emergency dental appointment. Oral health should not be taken lightly, nor is it worth risking your life.

A Tooth is Broken or Knocked Out

If you have a tooth that is broken or knocked out from accidents or contact sports, a prompt visit to an emergency dentist can possibly save your tooth. The dentist may be able to reinsert the tooth into the gums and salvage nerve connectivity.

While waiting to see your dentist, gently clean the tooth and attempt to reinsert it. Bite down on something safe to hold it in place while you wait for your emergency dental appointment. Your dentist will attempt to splint the tooth in place and give it a chance to reattach.

A lesser dental problem such as a minor chipped tooth, however, is not necessarily urgent. Pain is generally a good indicator of whether or not your tooth damage is a problem that requires immediate dental services.

You’re Experiencing Tooth Abscesses

An abscess is a specific type of oral infection that causes intense pain in the tooth and radiates throughout the jaw. An abscessed tooth must either be pulled or treated with a root canal procedure. An unaddressed tooth abscess can lead to severe health complications.’

Signs of a tooth abscess include pain, heightened sensitivity, facial swelling, foul-tasting fluid, or even difficulty breathing. Make an emergency dental appointment especially if you experience some of the latter symptoms.

What to Do While Waiting

When you schedule an emergency dental appointment, your specialist will be sure to get you in as soon as possible. In the meantime, follow any instructions given to you by your dentist. This may include using ice to relieve any swelling from infection, rinsing the mouth with warm water, and taking over-the-counter pain medication.

Emergency Dental Appointments with Stuart Curry Dentistry

If you need emergency dental care in Birmingham, call Stuart Curry Dentistry as soon as the problem arises. We’ll set you up with the soonest possible appointment to ensure that your oral health is preserved.

We’ll also make sure to inform you what services your dental insurance will cover in all circumstances. Our business hours are generally from 8AM – 5PM, but earlier or later appointments can be made upon request and for emergencies.

To schedule your next dental appointment with Stuart Curry Dentistry, call our Birmingham office at (205)-972-3831.

Many individuals struggle to choose between dental implants and dentures for replacement teeth. Losing your teeth and having an unhealthy mouth can not only be uncomfortable, but also causes embarrassment to many. While dentures seem to be the less expensive option, dental implants come with significant long-term benefits that you’ll want to consider.

Visual Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants currently give the closest to natural appearance possible. It should be noted that dentists significant improved dentures in the past decade. However, implants are a direct extension of the jaw rather than an outfitted device that can be removed. This fact alone causes dental implants to give your smile a much more authentic appearance.

Also, dentures can slip if not secure, causing your smile to “shift” at times and cause discomfort. This will actually create significant jawline and appearance issues if unaddressed.

They Directly Impact Your Jawline

Dental implants can prevent facial sagging and deterioration of the jawbone. When you no longer have healthy teeth, your mouth lacks something to stimulate the nerve endings. When your mouth is not properly cared for, the bones will degrade. This not only can create a sagging, unsightly appearance, but can turn into a full facial collapse.

Poor dentures can shift in the mouth and don’t provide the same stable contact that dental implants do. As a result, you are more likely to see degradation of the facial structure. Implants contact the tooth roots, providing constant, near-natural stimulation that will preserve your jawbone in the long-term.

There’s Less Steps to Maintaining Dental Implants

Dentures require adhesives and creams to stay in place in your mouth. When they’re not in use, they require additional cleaning using special solutions. Regularly removing your replacement tooth option leads to the problems mentioned above. Additionally, dentures will eventually degrade and require replacing eventually no matter how well they are cared for.

Dental implants are a less needy replacement option that receive cleaning just like normal teeth. A thorough brushing with a low-abrasive brush around the teeth and under the crowns works alongside flossing and oral irrigators. Brush and floss regularly as always. These implants, while more expensive in the short-term, have the potential to last the rest of your life.

Implants Are More Functionally Sound

When your teeth aren’t anchored to your gums, it affects everything you do. Your tongue interacts with your teeth to speak, and your teeth grind up your food for eating. Dental implants allow you to maintain full chewing power and speak as you normally would. With dentures, you may end up having to avoid certain foods altogether.

Stuart Curry Dentistry Specializes in Dental Implants

Dr. Stuart Curry and his team are experts in the field of Restorative Dentistry. Your oral health plays a vital role in maintaining overall health. When disease or tooth decay cause the need for tooth replacement, we can handle your care.

This simple procedure can return your mouth to an authentic feel without the need of bridges and dentures. Contact us today at (205)-972-3831 to schedule an appointment to discuss your restorative dentistry options today.

Do you know if it’s safe to whiten your teeth? Everyone strives for good oral health and a brighter smile, but it’s important to only use safe and effective methods to get there. Teeth become unhealthy and discolored for a variety of reasons.

Many stores and pharmacies now carry a wide array of teeth whitening products. You should educate yourself on the side effects of each and consider some of this key information regarding your smile.

What Makes it Safe to Whiten Your Teeth?

The Causes of Discoloration

The first step in understanding the tooth whitening process is to understand what causes discoloration in the first place. Teeth can become discolored via external exposure to substances or via internal issues from the body or inside the tooth.

External

The most common form of tooth discoloration comes from the former. Many popular foods and drinks, especially red wine, coffee, tea, and anything with food dye, can cause stains on the teeth. Individuals who smoke cigarettes or use tobacco are also especially prone to gum disease and tooth decay and discoloration.

Internal

Discoloration of your smile can occur from a variety of internal factors such as genetics. Some individuals naturally possess denser enamel which leads to a fuller-looking, brighter smile. Other factors such as infection, age, or disease can also lead to a grey or dark color shift.

What Methods are Safe for Teeth Whitening

If you express concern about the color of your teeth, you always want to talk to your dentist. This is primarily because they will be able to identify if your teeth are experiencing any signs of disease or further problems.

Get a Professional Dental Cleaning

Your dentist can perform a professional tooth whitening service in office. Dental experts typically use carbamide peroxide to create a chemical reaction in the discolored areas. The products dentists use are more abundant than over-the-counter products and last longer. A whitening session in office doesn’t take long and is an outpatient procedure.

Use Recommended Products at Home

Dentists can also recommend safe to use products for regular use at home. Industry-approved products typically bear the logo of the American Dental Association (ADA). These include products such as whitening toothpastes that include small amounts of baking soda. Whitening stripes utilize hydrogen peroxide in small doses throughout the day.

These store-bought products use lower quantities of bleaching agents than used in a professional cleaning. While these products won’t damage the structure of your teeth, they can increase tooth sensitivity. Sensitive teeth can be mildly uncomfortable when consuming products with sharp temperatures.

Lastly, prevention is the best way to handle stains. Regular brushing and flossing removes harmful particles that can lead to stains or decay before they can take action. Additionally, reduce the amount of food or drink you consume that can harm teeth.

Stuart Curry Dentistry Makes It Safe to Whiten Your Teeth

At Stuart Curry Dentistry, you have options when it comes to whitening your teeth. We actually supply whitening solutions for you to use at home with take-home trays. They are custom fitted to your mouth and contain a bleach gel that will whiten your smile by the second or third use. We also do in-office whitening in a few quick 15-minute sessions.

For assistance with your teeth-whitening needs, and regular dental cleanings to make sure it stays that way, come to Stuart Curry Dentistry. If you have any questions or concerns about what the doctor can do for you, call (205)-972-3731 today.

As with any medical care, choosing the right family dental clinic is a significant choice for the health and happiness of your loved ones. There are a variety of factors to consider, including expertise, cost, availability, as well as others. Here is a short primer to aid in helping you find a family dentist that’s right for your household.

In What Areas Does the Family Dental Clinic Specialize?

Not every family dental practice offers the same range of procedures and treatments. You may wish to find a team that emphasizes preventive dental care. If you have issues with things like gum disease or need special denture care, you’ll want to investigate how their dentists can help. You’ll want to find a clinic that has a strong knowledge base and skill set to attend to a wide array of needs and emergencies should they arise.

A great clinic can even assist in providing education or methods for better eating, quitting tobacco, or other means to promote oral health besides regular procedures.

What Are the Procedure Costs?

You’ll likely prepare to pay for regular cleanings, but what about procedures for setbacks and emergencies? Fillings, surgery, or root canals can be costly services. Inquire if they have payment plans. You should also ask about the types of anesthesia used for different procedures in case you have potential health concerns. Costs of family dental care are, unfortunately, one of the biggest reasons for irregular care.

Do They Take My Insurance?

As with any doctor visit, not all clinics take specific insurance types. Don’t schedule an appointment before investigating if the family dentist in question can work with your family insurance provider. Inquiring about this might seem obvious, but it’s arguably the most important thing to consider.

Does the Family Dentist Handle After-Hour Emergencies?

Some family dental clinics have a specialist on call for client emergencies. Any dental issues from severe tooth pain to jaw damage may likely require immediate medical attention. If the family dental practice in question has arrangements for these scenarios, count it as a significant plus.

Are They Responsive to My Needs?

If people don’t skip their regular dental care due to financial concerns, they do because of fear and anxiety. Interview and observe the staff to discern how they handle patients. Be sure that they are kind, courteous, and accommodate their patients, especially for the sake of your children.

What Are the Hours and Availability?

Balancing work and family life is a difficult task already before working in regular dental appointments for the family. Educate yourself on their hours and days of operation to see if they can fit into your hectic schedule.

Is There a Family Dental Clinic For Me?

Fortunately, you’ve already arrived at a Family Dental Practice that addresses all of these concerns and more. Stuart Curry Dentistry has a staff of experienced, friendly professionals who can handle all of your general dentistry needs. Dr. Stuart Curry insists upon the highest level of customer care and comfort at his general and cosmetic Dentistry facility.

Reach out to our staff today by filling out a new patient form found under our contact section. A friendly and informative staff member will contact you about all of your family dental care needs today.

Nearly half of Americans often neglect preventive dentistry and regular dental cleaning. A variety of concerns prevents many from following up with a dental specialist ranging from high costs to fear of oral procedures. The truth is, regular dental cleaning can have a substantial impact on your health by preventing issues before they occur. Here are some reasons why we should reconsider skipping that next dentist appointment.

Dental Cleaning Prevents Tooth Loss

While regular brushing and flossing have an incredible value, professional cleanings assist in providing in-depth and thorough plaque and tartar removal, which can otherwise lead to gum disease and premature tooth loss. Tooth loss is an understandable fear of many as your white smile is one of your greatest assets and a standout feature of first impressions. A good dental cleaning does the work you can’t and ensures your bright smile will stick around longer.

Poor Hygiene Can Lead to Cancer

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that individuals with periodontitis or gum disease saw a 24% increase in cancer risks. Oral cancer is very treatable if discovered early. Regular checkups conducted by your dental specialist can assist in early cancer detection and drastically increase the chances of recovery. 

Oral Health Also Impacts Your Heart, Brain, and Lungs

Many dental specialists have established a correlation between oral hygiene and heart health. Bacterial infections can begin by entering the bloodstream through the gums. The blood can then carry it directly to the heart valves, increasing the chance of deadly heart attacks. In the same way, an infection can also spread to the lungs causing respiratory issues, pneumonia, or lung disease. In some cases, it can even lead to strokes. 

Early Detection of Cavities, Breaks, and Fractures

Even when practicing good oral hygiene habits, it is still possible for cavities to appear, fillings to break, or teeth to otherwise get damaged in various scenarios. A dental specialist can detect any of these potential damages and either correct the issue immediately or schedule another dentist appointment to address the issue separately. Failure to address these issues makes it easier for bacteria to cause the problems mentioned above.

Your Dental Specialist is Here to Help

Dentists understand that the cost of specific procedures can be costly. They, like any proper health specialist, value your well-being, and want to help you get the treatment you need. Upon detection of dental problems, most dental offices typically provide different financing options to assist in getting you the care you deserve. However, they can only do this if the issue is detected, and regular cleanings can help with this.

Establish a Regular Dental Cleaning Schedule

We at Stuart Curry Dentistry have the expertise to provide any level of comfort and pampering you may require. We understand that dental procedures can be frightening and even costly. Our friendly staff and team of experienced doctors can set you up with a regular cleaning schedule and financial plan that best suits you. Not only will our services promote overall better health, but you’ll also feel happier and more confident with your new, glowing smile.

You can contact us at our Birmingham, AL, office at (205)-972-3831. Alternatively, you can fill out a new patient form on our contact page and have us contact you via phone or e-mail. We look forward to helping you smile.