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Modern dentistry recommends that we strive to keep our natural teeth healthy for as long as possible for the best quality of life. With the advent of new technology in the dental field and improved standards of oral health in recent years, we are retaining our natural teeth longer than ever before. This means that we must maintain consistent oral hygiene and schedule regular dental check ups throughout our lifetime. Dr. Doyle Freano understands that our oral health needs change as we age and would like to discuss some special concerns for adult and senior patients. Later in life, our gums may recede, exposing the root surfaces of our teeth. Gum recession can be caused by a number of factors, including trauma, periodontal disease, vigorous brushing, and genetic predisposition. Root exposure is problematic mainly because root surfaces are covered by a material called cementum, which is much softer than enamel and more susceptible to decay. In addition, certain antibiotics can limit the flow of saliva, which is protective against cavities. For this reason, older patients must take special care to brush and floss daily and visit the dentist regularly to ensure that root cavities do not occur. For elderly patients with dentures, regular dental visits are also important, as a dentist can ensure a properly fitting denture and can also examine your mouth for signs of periodontal disease and oral cancer, with of which are highly treatable when caught early. Cosmetic Dentistry for A Lasting Smile We understand that aesthetics are also important to our older adult patients and we would like to address certain cosmetic procedures that may benefit us as we age. Throughout our lives, our teeth may begin to darken due to staining or may abrade due to parafunctional habits. Teeth whitening and porcelain veneers are both options for older patients who desire to improve the look of their smiles! In addition to brushing and flossing, a healthy diet and exercise is important for older adults in maintaining the healthiest mouth possible. Certain chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes are connected to oral health; living a healthier lifestyle can lessen our risks for these diseases. If you have any questions about specific oral health concerns for older patients, please don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Freano during your next visit!

Many patients experience both confusion and frustration when it comes to understanding and utilizing their dental insurance benefits, especially if extensive dentistry is needed to restore their smile. While dental insurance can provide a foundation for budgeting oral health care expenses, covered procedures can vary widely and the reimbursement to us is often below our actual cost. There are various types of dental insurance policies on the market today, but when choosing the right way to budget for your dental health care it is important to consider several key factors that can affect your overall cost: Group plans: a group plan, typically offered by your employer, is often the best value for your money: these plans are priced with the assumption that almost half of the participants will not use their benefits and this can translate to very competitive premium pricing and reasonable benefit coverage. Individual plans: in most cases, a plan purchased for you and/or your family on the open market will end up being more costly in the long run than simply “paying as you go” for your dental care. These plans have high premiums and restrictive limitations on how we treat you in order for you to receive your reimbursement. Office savings plans: if this is offered by your dentist, an office savings plan can be a great option for managing your dental health care costs while receiving the best possible care using quality materials and techniques. Dr. Freano accepts your dental insurance as an out of network provider. What does this mean for you as a patient? This means that Dr. Freano and his staff can make decisions for your dental health care that are in your best interest and support lasting oral health: “As long as you choose to come to my practice, I will do for you as I would for myself or my closest friends and family. I have a healthy mouth, free of disease that functions properly as designed and looks very good too. All my family and employees have the same level of care. It is what we chose for ourselves and I will do my best to help you get there too.” Dr. Doyle Freano One of the most important things you can do to maintain a healthy and functional smile is to come in twice a year for a routine dental exam and professional cleaning. These preventive care visits are vital in the prevention of tooth decay, gum disease and the development of complex problems down the road. Addressing a dental concern in the early stage is always less costly and less invasive than trying to restore tooth damage or loss when left untreated. Your oral health can have an impact on your daily quality of life as well as your overall health. Dr. Freano is dedicated to helping you enjoy both a comfortable, functional smile and the best possible quality of life through conservative, comprehensive dental care. Share this: Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)11Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)11Click to share on Google+ (Opens in new window) Related Aging And Oral Health..March 31, 2016In "oral health" Keeping Your Teeth And Gums Healthy..January 29, 2016In "gum disease" April Is Oral Cancer Awareness MonthApril 29, 2016In "General Dentistry" Next Post Previous Post Call Now 859.554.1586 Schedule Appointment Meet Dr. Freano

June is Oral Health Month and now is great time to refresh your oral health. Good oral health goes beyond just a white smile and fresh breath. Maintaining your oral health not only prevents tooth decay and gum disease but poor dental health increases the risk of other health concerns such as cardiovascular and systemic disease. Lexington, KY dentist Dr. Doyle Freano knows there are many reasons to keep your mouth healthy, and a beautiful smile is just one of them! One of the most important keys to maintaining good oral health is establishing and sticking with an effective oral routine at home. Dr. Freano recommends brushing twice a day, including once before bed, with toothpaste that contains fluoride to help strengthen the enamel of the teeth. It is also important to change your toothbrush regularly because a worn toothbrush will improperly clean your teeth. Flossing once a day is also essential because it removes any food particles that brushing leaves behind. Eating well is important for many reasons, including the wellbeing of your oral health. Foods containing high levels of sugar can cause tooth decay (cavities) and acidic foods attack the enamel of your teeth. Dr. Freano recommends rinsing with water after eating to wash away any sugars or acids left behind. Brushing properly and eating right are just two steps for good oral health. Avoiding unhealthy oral habits, such as smoking, is also a great way to boost oral health. Giving up smoking will not only help your oral health but will reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease. Reducing your alcohol intake can also reduce your risk of oral cancer and other diseases. At-home oral care is a great start to maintaining your oral health. Visiting Dr. Freano at least twice a year will ensure great oral health. Routine dental visits not only give you a full dental cleaning but regular visits will give Dr. Freano the ability to detect early signs of any oral concerns. Additionally, by visiting Dr. Freano, he will be able to recommend specific at-home procedures for your unique dental concerns.