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Sleep Apnea, Saint Helens. OR

Diagnosis and Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea with a Saint Helens, OR Area Dentist

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Sleep Apnea, Saint Helens. ORPatients in Saint Helens, OR and the surrounding areas who have been diagnosed with conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea should speak with a dental professionals at the Hiebert Smith Dental Group to learn about treatment options available for OSA.

Understanding OSA

OSA is short for obstructive sleep apnea, a sleeping disorder that affects millions of Americans. This condition can cause patients to experience increased risk of several medical disorders, though with proper diagnosis and treatment, can be addressed. This condition is caused by a blockage in the airways that stops breathing while patients sleep. Patients gasp for air and wake up, resulting in a cycle of waking and sleeping that can happen hundreds of times in one night. The condition can greatly impact one’s quality of life, so diagnosis and treatment are essential.

Treatment for OSA

At Hiebert Smith Dental Group, we offer several treatment options for patients who have been diagnosed with OSA by their primary care provider. Treatments include:

• ProSomnus Sleep and Snore Device

• CPAP Device

• Oral Appliance Therapy

Which treatment is right for me?

Once patients have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, they often speak with their physician or their attending dentist about the treatment options available to them. Deciding which one is right for you is a personal decision, and the choice is often made by taking into consideration several factors including the severity of the condition, the treatment option that best fits a patient’s lifestyle, and a patient’s budget. Application of certain dental and medical insurance benefits may also help a patient make a decision on the most appropriate treatment for their needs.

Request your appointment with Hiebert Smith Dental Group

At Hiebert Smith Dental Group, patients in and around the area of Saint Helens, OR who are interested in obtaining treatment for their condition of obstructive sleep apnea are welcome to book a consultation appointment and initial evaluation with Drs. Hiebert and Smith by calling (503) 397-6144 and visiting the office at 1550 Saint Helens Street. Patients are encouraged to take the time to learn about treatment with oral appliance therapy, a CPAP device, or the ProSomnus Sleep and Snore Device, all available in our state-of-the-art facility.

Teeth Whitening | St. Helens OR

Cosmetic Dentistry Can Help Enhance Your Smile

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Cosmetic Dentistry St. Helens ORAt Hiebert Smith Dental Group, patients in and around the area of Saint Helens, OR are welcome to book an appointment with our dentists to find out if they are an appropriate candidate for cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic procedures can be used to enhance the smile and ensure patients feel confidence when they eat, speak, and smile with others. Our practice offers a wide selection of cosmetic dental procedures for patients to consider, including:

 

 

• Porcelain restorations – patients who need to repair or restore a tooth are welcome to ask about our strong and natural-looking porcelain restorations. Whether you need a dental crown to protect a weakened tooth or a porcelain veneer to cover a tooth that is negatively impacting the appearance of the smile, our practice has solutions for you!

• Teeth whitening – brightening the smile is a fast, easy, and effective way of rejuvenating the appearance of the natural teeth. Drs. Hiebert and Smith provide professional whitening solutions that work far better than anything available in a local drugstore as an over-the-counter treatment.

• Tooth-colored fillings – patients who have areas of decay will need to address them with fillings. Many dental offices use fillings made of metal or silver amalgam, which are highly noticeable within the smile. Instead, patients can use a material called composite resin to enjoy tooth-colored fillings that are harder to notice and more aesthetic.

• Invisalign – also known as “clear braces,” Invisalign provides patients with solutions for their smile when misalignment is an issue. Invisalign works differently than traditional braces, which utilize brackets and wires to reposition the teeth. Invisalign uses a series of clear aligner trays that are worn by the patient each day and night to gradually move teeth into better alignment within the dental arch.

Contact Hiebert Smith Dental Group today to discuss cosmetic improvements to the smile

Drs.  Hiebert and Smith are here to help patients in the area of Saint Helens, OR with a variety of dental concerns, including aesthetic treatments. If you are interested in cosmetic solutions for the smile, we encourage you to book a consultation appointment with our team to educate yourself on the options available. We can be reached by calling (503) 397-6144 for an appointment at our office, located at 1550 Saint Helens Street.

Non-surgical Treatment for Patients Diagnosed with TMJ/TMD

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TMJ/TMD Saint Helens, ORWhen patients are experiencing problems with their jaw, they may be diagnosed with a condition known as TMJ or TMD. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, and TMD is the disorder associated with its malfunction.

What are the symptoms of TMJ/TMD?

This condition is often characterized by some of the following symptoms:

• Cracking and popping of the jaw joint

• Locking of the joint in the open or closed position

• Pain surrounding the jaw joint

• Pain and stiffness down to the shoulders and up to the ears

• Chronic headaches and migraines

To get a proper diagnosis, it is essential that patients visit a provider that offers neuromuscular dentistry. These professionals are well-versed in the signs of TMJ/TMD and can also provide effective treatment once it has been diagnosed. Diagnosis can occur with an explanation of the symptoms, an x-ray, and a physical examination. Once patients are diagnosed, then they can work with a dental professional to learn about treatment options.

Do I need surgery?

Unless the TMJ/TMD is severe, most patients can avoid requiring surgery to fix the jaw joint. Nowadays, patients can achieve results with oral appliance therapy. Drs. Hiebert and Smith at Hiebert Smith Dental Group are proud to offer oral appliance therapy for TMJ/TMD patients who are interested in a non-invasive treatment option.

Understanding oral appliance therapy

In many situations, it can be essential to realign the jaw alignment to reduce the symptoms of TMJ/TMD. To do this, a unique device similar to a mouth guard can be worn by the patient. It also helps protect the natural teeth from unwanted wear and tear due to poor bite alignment or coexisting conditions such as bruxism. Many patients find relief by regular wear of their oral appliance.

Want to learn more about neuromuscular dentistry?

Drs. Hiebert and Smith of Saint Helens, OR work with patients who have been diagnosed with conditions such as TMJ/TMD to provide solutions that eliminate the need for surgical intervention. Oral appliance therapy is just a phone call away! Book an appointment at Hiebert Smith Dental Group today by contacting us at (503) 397-6144 and visiting the office, conveniently located at 1550 Saint Helens Street.

Porcelain Crowns St. Helens OR

Porcelain restorations available with the Hiebert Smith Dental Group

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In restorative dentistry, many patients will find that porcelain restorations are commonplace. These restorations are used for a variety of purposes, and are all available in Saint Helens, OR with the team at Hiebert Smith Dental Group.

What are porcelain restorations?

Over the years, it has been determined that restorations that repair the smile are best suited for a material such as porcelain. Porcelain closely mimics the appearance of natural tooth enamel, ensuring seamless integration when place din the smile. Drs. Hiebert and Smith are dedicated in providing restorations that look as beautiful as possible, allowing them to blend seamlessly into the smile.

Porcelain restorations made in our practice may include the following:

  • Onlays – onlays are sometimes referred to as “partial crowns” and may be used in conjunction with fillers to address areas of decay. They are bonded into place over the tooth with special dental bonding to ensure they last for many years.
  • Dental crowns – a common restoration used in dental practices is that of a dental crown. The dental crown, or porcelain “cap,” is a porcelain piece that is fabricated to cover all visible areas of the natural tooth to add an extra layer of protection and strength to the natural tooth structure.
  • Dental veneers – ceramic restorations such as porcelain veneers are also made of this material. These thin facings are made to cover the anterior teeth for cosmetic purposes.

Schedule a visit today with Hiebert Smith Dental Group

Drs. Hiebert and Smith of Hiebert Smith Dental Group are dentists who are pleased to provide restorations that are beautiful, natural-looking, and long-lasting for patients who need to repair their smile. If you are interested in onlays, dental crowns, or dental veneers, we encourage you to book a consultation appointment with our staff to find out if you qualify for any of these restorations that may be available to you in our practice. We are conveniently located in Saint Helens, at 1550 Saint Helens Street and can be reached for an appointment at (503) 397-6144. Book a visit with our front office team today and take the first step in repairing and enhancing your smile!

TMD and Neuromuscular Dentistry St. Helens OR

Neuromuscular Dentistry Explained

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Conditions such as TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) and bruxism can cause unwanted wear and tear on the natural teeth and dental restorations. In addition, they can cause patients pain and discomfort. These conditions are easily diagnosed with the help of a dental professional such as Drs. Hiebert and Smith, and can be addressed with oral appliance therapy.

Understanding TMD and Bruxism

TMD is the dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint. This joint hinges the jaw so it can open and close for speaking and eating. However, sometimes the joint and the muscles around it can become problematic for a patient. The joint and muscles can cause pain, lock, and click. In addition, it often cohabitates with a condition known as bruxism, which is unwanted clenching and grinding of the teeth at night while sleeping. Both conditions can be uncomfortable for patients but they can receive treatment with the help of a dentist at Hiebert Smith Dental Group

Neuromuscular Dentistry Solutions

One of the most popular methods of reducing the tension of the jaw joint and protecting the natural teeth and restorations from damage from bruxism is the use of an oral appliance. Oral appliance therapy is ideal because it is a solution that patients can easily access and it is comfortable. Patients wear these plastic mouth guards in the mouth while they sleep, or during the day for severe cases, to protect the teeth and realign the jaw properly. It also relieves tension that is a result of these conditions, cushioning the jaw joint appropriately. Most patients with these conditions can ask about oral appliance therapy as a solution to their problem. With severe cases, surgery is often the only solution.

Find out If Neuromuscular Dentistry Can Help You!

If you have been diagnosed with conditions such as TMD or bruxism, you may want to find out more about neuromuscular dentistry and how it can help improve your quality of life and address pain and discomfort. Call the office today at (503) 397-6144 and schedule an appointment at the practice, conveniently located at 1550 Saint Helens Street in Saint Helens, OR.

Versatile Tooth Replacement Solution

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At Hiebert Smith Dental Group, we are here to help patients who are struggling with tooth loss. Many may feel overwhelmed by the options available to them. However, individuals who are ready for a permanent way to replace one or more teeth may be excited to learn about dental implants.

Implants Explained

Drs. Heibert and Smith are dentists who deal with dental implants on a regular basis. They find this solution to be an option for patients who are seeking a permanent way to address missing teeth. The practice is equipped to not only place them but restore them. Dental implants are titanium posts that act as a natural tooth root. During oral surgery, our staff will implant it into the jawbone, stimulating a process of bone growth known as osseointegration. Once this happens, the implant is solid and can be restored using dental crowns, dental bridges, or full dentures. These versatile restorations are for patients who want a no-fuss way to replace teeth and enjoy a brand-new smile!

Why Consider Implants?

There are many advantages to using dental implants within the smile that patients need to consider when they are seeking tooth replacement solutions. Dental implants may cost more upfront than bridges or dentures, but they can last a lifetime without extra attention. These restorations are biocompatible, natural-looking, and are more solid than any other solution. Additionally, when used with full dentures, they can provide unsurpassed stability so patients can enjoy all their favorite foods without worry!

Schedule a Visit with Hiebert Smith Dental Group Today!

Dental implants play an important role in restorative dentistry and may be right for you! If you reside in the area of Saint Helens, OR and are ready to discuss your options, we welcome you to book an appointment with Drs. Hiebert and Smith. Our friendly front office team can be reached at (503) 397-6144 and the office is conveniently located at 1550 Saint Helens Street. New and existing patients in the community are welcome into our practice offering comprehensive dental care for adults.

Dental Implants St. Helens OR

Are You Taking a Calculated Look at Dental Implants?

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Any dental related cost can be viewed as an investment in your health and wellness. As much as possible, we try to help patients keep their dental investment honed on the area of prevention and, if so desired, the cosmetic improvement of the smile. However, sometimes, it is necessary to rebuild the structure of a tooth or teeth. Sometimes, we have to start from the ground up. Understandably, any patient who must replace a missing or failing tooth has to consider the cost of care. Here, we discuss how to do that prudently.

Assessing the True Return on Investment

When we think about replacing a missing tooth or teeth, we might be tempted to focus on the visible details like putting a tooth back where it belongs, so the smile looks good. There’s much more to tooth replacement than appearances. Teeth also need to function. They need to be reliable and secure so that you can eat and actually enjoy your meals. They need to last, too. When we look at the average restoration like a bridge or denture, we see a lifespan of about 15 years in most cases, and that includes routine adjustments to account for bone loss. Surgical-grade titanium implants fuse with the bone, so they stay put. According to research, they can stay put for several decades. In one study, researchers estimated that dental implant treatment would cost 10% less than a bridge when viewed across its lifetime.

Assessing What Matters Most

What matters most when we replace teeth is not how the smile looks, or even that chewing function is restored. It’s the degree to which these benefits are attained that matters. For example, a full denture may give you back the look you once had, but if your teeth are sliding out of your mouth or rubbing on your gums, you may not wear your dentures all the time as you should. Even when dentures are worn consistently, there will be bone loss. This loss is only worse when dentures are not in place at all times. When considering the cost of tooth replacement, the ultimate factor to consider is your quality of life.

Schedule a Consultation

Learn more about dental implants. Call our St. Helens dental office at (503) 397-6144.

How to Sustain a Brilliant Smile | Teeth Whitening St. Helens OR

How to Sustain a Brilliant Smile

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There are numerous benefits to having healthy teeth and gums, and we discuss them regularly in our St. Helens general and cosmetic dentistry office. What also comes up often is the topic of brilliance. Patients want to know how they can avoid the pitfalls of tooth discoloration and how they can manage the radiance of their smile without having to have their teeth whitened frequently. We want to discuss some tips here.

About Professional Teeth Whitening

There is a reason why professional teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments sought today: it works. The value of a radiant smile extends throughout various areas of life, from dating and socializing to climbing the corporate ladder. Teeth whitening is a simple way to rejuvenate the face and makeover the smile. A white smile indicates youthfulness and goes so far as to portray a person as being more motivated, successful, and friendly. That’s a lot of value for a relatively minor physical feature!

When you have your teeth whitened by your dentist, whether you choose an in-office treatment or one you conduct at home, what you’re doing is setting a new baseline of radiance for your smile. This is why the first tip for a brilliant smile is to work with your dentist to establish that baseline. After that, it’s all about maintenance; and maintenance is as easy as mindfulness.

How Mindfulness Benefits your Smile

Mindfulness is a hot term used by individuals in the self-improvement industry. What could it possibly have to do with your smile? A lot, it turns out. When we create a habit of mindfulness, what we do is set our focus on a particular practice. That practice may be how we brush and floss our teeth (two minutes, twice a day). It may be how we care for teeth after we eat (rinse, don’t brush!).  It may be how we choose to consume beverages (use a straw when possible). Where we place focus on oral care, we have an excellent opportunity to minimize discoloration.

Our team would love to help you attain the brilliant smile you have always wanted. Schedule your teeth whitening visit in our St. Helens office at (503) 397-6144.

Dental Technologies St. Helens OR | How Dental Innovation Serves Your Smile

How Dental Innovation Serves Your Smile

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The word “innovation” gets thrown around quite a lot these days, and there are good reasons for this. In the past century, we have witnessed so many changes in technology that the way we live now is far different than our ancestors did just a handful of decades ago. Every field of practice, from music to construction to healthcare, has evolved in significant ways. Here, we want to give attention to a few of the dental innovations that are serving our patients’ smiles.

Dental Technologies

The manner in which dentists diagnose conditions and monitor oral health is not often discussed. However, the technologies that are used in dentistry today have improved so significantly that there is reason to cheer. Patients who visit our St. Helens, OR office benefit from digital x-rays and laser cavity finding instrumentation. Additionally, we use simple yet powerful modalities like Bio-EMG and Myomonitor TENs to facilitate accurate diagnosis and treatment planning for bite issues and TMJ disorder.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings aren’t necessarily new, but they are still catching on. This innovative restorative method is more than a cosmetically pleasing treatment for cavities. The composite resin material from which tooth-colored fillings are made is ultra-durable, too, which maximizes the lifespan of this type of filling. Furthermore, composite resin is bonded to enamel, leading to secure, tight margins around the restoration.

Dental Implants

Tooth loss has historically been a primary problem that then led to others. For example, tooth loss could lead to a misaligned bite if the empty space is not filled with an artificial tooth. Filling space with an artificial tooth has meant that two healthy teeth would need to be altered so they could anchor that prosthesis. Widespread tooth loss, even if corrected with dentures, has historically led to bone loss that eventually changes the shape of the face. Now, we’ve got dental implants to negate all of these secondary concerns after tooth loss.

Dental implants are tiny titanium posts that are set into the jawbone, where they will become solidified in bone. Their presence in the jawbone promotes bone regeneration and also lays a new foundation for tooth stability.

Schedule a Consultation

Experience the value of personal, friendly dental care. Contact our St. Helens office at (503) 397-6144.

General Dentistry St. Helens OR

Studies Point to Specific Dental Risks for Today’s Teens

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You may remember your teenage years as a time of increased independence. Teens largely have the ability to choose what they eat and when. Partly as a result of societal norms and partly due to just being busy, many teens reach for easy foods such as burgers, fries, and soda. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, everyday dietary habits of the average teenager presents a risk of tooth erosion.

The most prominent culprits of tooth erosion among teens are soft drinks and sports drinks. For the teen who consumes energy drinks, the risk of enamel breakdown is even higher. If you look at the ingredients list on any can of soda, you will see the word “acid” listed at least once. The concern is not whether or not an acidic ingredient is natural but that any acidic ingredient will cause enamel to erode, or deteriorate. We need durable enamel if we want to avoid cavities and infection deep inside teeth! The high instance of erosion is concerning because this condition can cause irreparable damage to teeth.

And There’s More

As if erosion were not a significant concern all on its own, further research should cause us to be even more mindful of teens’ oral health. In one study discussed by the Academy of General Dentistry, researchers confirmed a direct link between soda consumption and increased instances of bone fractures among teenage girls. Why would this be, and what does it have to do with teeth?

The years between age 9 and 18 are significant for bone development. It is over this time-frame that bone growth is most substantial. Therefore, it is during these years of life when teens are in great need of calcium. Calcium is the foundation of healthy bones as well as strong teeth. The average teen needs 1300 mg of calcium a day. Here’s where things can get tricky.

Calcium stores are vital to healthy teeth and bones. When a teen consumes phosphoric acid, a common ingredient in soft drinks and sports drinks, their body’s ability to absorb calcium decreases. Hence the increased risk of bone fractures.

Does this information mean that teens cannot drink soft drinks? Not necessarily, but limiting intake certainly could help. Additionally, teens benefit from staying up to date with dental exams and cleanings that can spot and treat erosion before it causes substantial damage.

Schedule a Consultation

We’d love to see you in our St. Helens office. Call (503) 397-6144 to schedule care for your family.