Spotlight on Biria Dentistry

Your preventative dental check list is very solid. You’re using the strategies the dental community advises to keep your teeth and gums healthy, lasting a lifetime. But is it really enough?

“At Biria Dentistry, we see a lot of patients who come in every six months for their cleanings and exams. They’re practicing good hygiene at home, and their dental IQ is good,” noted Dr. Firoozeh Biria. “But then they begin suffering from tooth sensitivity, have a cracked tooth or require a root canal. They’re doing all the right things and wondering why they’re experiencing these issues.”

Prevention Yields Rewards 

Dr. Biria states that preventative dentistry is so much more than the tradition cleanings, exams and good dental hygiene that we know and use. Just as it does with joints, bones and other parts of our body, the aging process impacts our teeth and gums, many times leading to serious outcomes. She advises that you should ask your dentist about simple care techniques now to prevent the issues that you may have later down the road.

“You should look at your teeth as part of your body. Just like your skin and joints, you become more aware of things you should do to maintain them as you age. For instance, you use SPF creams to prevent skin issues,” noted Dr. Biria. “As you age, your teeth will encounter natural wear even though you’re brushing, flossing and seeing your dentist. But you may be grinding your teeth at night, wearing down the top surfaces. It can even make your smile line change. Naturally, we lose some bone with age and that affects your gum tissue.”

A Common Problem

Dr. Biria will see these issues in patients at various ages, most often in those in their mid-forties. She points to stress bringing on the grinding issue, which can lead to a host of problems such as sensitivity, fractures, crowns, jaw disorders and more. “For those who are grinding their teeth at night, over time the amount of wear is considerable,” commented Dr. Biria. “Even though you’re a grinder, you may not be doing this on a continuous basis. There are different signs that point to night grinding, and your dentist can ask questions to determine if this is an issue for you.”

She advises that wearing a night guard is a common treatment for grinding. You can purchase them over the counter. They can serve the purpose but may interfere with sleeping. At times they can be bulky or uncomfortable. Dr. Biria says that a custom night guard is a better option. A mold of your teeth will be made and sent to a lab for a personal fit. Fitting on the top and bottom teeth, the custom guard is much easier to adjust to, fits better and is sturdier.

At Biria Dentistry, conservative treatment of issues is also employed. “I believe in early treatment of the initial diagnosis of decay. If you treat it immediately, you have a small cavity and strong tooth surface,” Dr. Biria remarked. “The longer you wait the greater the possibility of a larger cavity and less healthy tooth structure.” She also highly recommends sealants, not just for your children, but for adult patients, too. Covering the grooves and backs of the teeth, it is effective in preventing the initiation and progression of dental caries in most cases.

Experience and Technology

At Biria Dentistry of Overland Park, Kansas, Dr. Biria has been practicing for more than 15 years. Her state-of-the-art family dental practice offers preventative, restorative and cosmetic dentistry. The staff provides patients with complete, comfortable dental treatment. The relaxing office in Overland Park features world-class, advanced dentistry. From the most basic dentistry to full mouth rehabilitation, this office is fully equipped to provide you with any dental service that you might require.

“Maintaining your teeth with preventative work is very important. Don’t be shy about asking questions of your dentist,” Dr. Biria stated. “Go one step beyond your regular care. With a solid plan, 20 years down the road you’ll still have your beautiful smile and for many more years to come.”

When you’re reviewing your preventative dental care strategy, don’t forget to expand your maintenance plan beyond the normal routine. Visit the staff at Biria Dentistry to ensure all the checkmarks are there to help you maintain your smile for a lifetime. HLM

Visit Biria Dentistry at 14364 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park, Kansas, the website at BiriaDentistry.com or call 913-499-1111.