TMJ Awareness Month

TMJ Treatment Near Me

TMJ awareness month - dr. ben kacos

TMJ AWARENESS MONTH 2021

One of the most frequent mouth problems is temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). Many people with the disease aren’t even aware that they have it. Do you have discomfort in some of your teeth when you get up? Do you suffer from pounding headaches on a regular basis? DYou can also feel pain in your jaw, neck, or shoulders. If you feel you have TMD, schedule an appointment with Dr. Ben Kacos, Shreveport dentist, for a diagnosis and treatment plan. The month of November is dedicated to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) awareness. The more you understand about this condition, the sooner you’ll be able to get therapy. 

Understanding TMJ Disorder 

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can be thought of as a hinge, connecting the jaw and the skull on either side of your head. It ensures the smooth opening and closing of your mouth and allows you the full range of motion you need to eat and speak correctly.

The TMJ can sustain damage over time, which can result in a TMJ disorder. Visiting your 71105 dentists can help to get a diagnosis.

Is TMD Serious?

It can be easy to think that TMD is not very serious, as it doesn’t cause the same concerns as you’d see with dental decay like tooth pain that comes and goes. However, dysfunctions of the temporomandibular joint should be taken quite seriously.

The best dentist in Colorado Springs, Dr. Cody Boals, explains some of the concerns patients could face with this disorder.

  • Difficulty opening and closing the mouth, with the jaw locked in place.
  • Tenderness or discomfort in the jaw
  • Ear pain
  • Tension headaches or migraines
  • Stiffness in shoulders and the neck

What can Cause TMD?

There are several potential causes of TMD. This is partially what can make it difficult to diagnose the disorder.

The following are some of the potential causes of temporomandibular disorders that our emergency dentist in Shreveport, LA, says to look out for.

  • An injury to the TMJ
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Misalignment in the bite
  • Orthodontia, including traditional braces
  • Bruxism, or tooth grinding
  • Arthritis
  • Poor posture

Relieving TMD Discomfort

You can take several steps at home to help relieve some of the symptoms of TMD. Adjust your diet to exclude hard foods that involve a significant amount of chewing. Avoid gum, as this repetitive chewing can cause excessive stress on your TMJ. Massage the TMJ muscles gentle to ease some of the tension. Take the time to learn some techniques for reducing stress and anxiety. An oral appliance can help to control some of the symptoms of TMJ. A consultation with your emergency dentist can help to determine which type of TMD appliance is the best option to meet your specific needs.

Contact Shreveport’s Dentist

Schedule an appointment with the best dentist in Shreveport, LA, to learn more about TMD and what can be done to protect the future of your teeth and gums. 

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in November, 2019 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

National Dental Hygiene Month

National Dental Hygiene Month

CELEBRATING NATIONAL DENTAL HYGIENE MONTH

As most of us are aware, good, regular oral hygiene practices are the foundation of a healthy mouth. With a candy-themed holiday approaching, Dr. Kacos wants to use this opportunity to provide his top oral hygiene advice to promote your general health. We are celebrating National Dental Hygiene Month!

In today’s article, we’ll discuss the greatest strategies to enhance your dental hygiene at home. Continue reading to learn tips and methods from the best dentist in Shreveport LA.

Celebrating National Dental Hygiene Month 2021

Basic, day-to-day care is often neglected by many patients all over the country. It is easy to forget what daily habits we should be following after years of repetition. Our 71105 dentist shares the basics below.

Brushing Your Teeth

Did you know that brushing your teeth twice a day is a minimum recommendation? If you can, our team recommends brushing your teeth after each and every meal, especially after you’ve had any type of candy. Additionally, when brushing, you should be brushing for a minimum of two minutes. Our Shreveport dentist says brushing thoroughly for two minutes each time you brush decreases your chance of developing gum disease.

Along with how often you are brushing, it is also recommended to brush your teeth at a 45-degree angle. This helps thoroughly clean all areas of your teeth. Don’t forget to brush the roof of your mouth and your tongue as well!

Flossing

You should be flossing your teeth at least once a day. Many people think that flossing isn’t as important as brushing, but this is not true. There are just some areas that your brush can not fully get on its own, making flossing an essential part of your dental hygiene routine. In addition to brushing, flossing also helps decrease your chances of developing gum disease in the future. This National Dental Hygiene Month, our emergency dentist Shreveport recommends making flossing a staple in your routine to ensure good dental hygiene habits.

Rinse With Mouthwash

Brushing, flossing, and rinsing your mouth should be part of your dental hygiene routine. Oftentimes, bacteria and other food particles remain in your mouth even after you brush or floss. Shreveport’s Dentist encourages you to make this a priority. Rinsing with mouthwash (or water if you don’t have any handy) is just another wonderful step to optimize your oral health and improve your dental hygiene. This will ensure your mouth is kept clean and your breath is fresh.

Get Your Regular Cleanings At Shreveport’s Dentist

Every 6 months, you should be seeing a dentist for your regular cleaning. Though dental products at home can do wonders for your oral hygiene, there are places in your mouth that your dentist can reach to thoroughly clean your teeth. Dentists can see all areas of your teeth, and detect more severe problems before they start by regular visits. For example, if you start to develop early signs of gingivitis, seeing a dentist is imperative to get this under control. When detected early on, it is way more treatable.

Dental Hygiene Impacts Your Overall Health

Great oral health is extremely important, as your oral health can impact your overall health. Recent studies have shown that your oral health directly impacts your heart health, making it vital to prioritize dental hygiene. Our friend, Dr. Cody Boals, Colorado Springs dentist, agrees. He explains that gum disease can lead to a handful of other issues, which is why dentists care so deeply about your oral health routine at home.

Good Dental Hygiene Starts at Home

As you can see, dental hygiene drastically impacts your oral and overall health. Do you have any questions about your oral health? Need to book a cleaning? Contact our Shreveport cosmetic dentistry today! Our team would love to clean your teeth and get your dental hygiene on track. It is never too late to start practicing great oral health.

 

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

 

What are Implant Supported Dentures? 

How Often Should I Get Dental X rays

What are Implant-Supported Dentures? 

What are Implant Supported Dentures Shreveport LA

If you are missing all of your teeth due to a dental condition or injury, you should think about implant-supported dentures (snap-in dentures) as a type of replacement teeth.

Snap-in dentures are more stable and versatile than traditional dentures, which can slip out of place. They are held in place by dental implants Shreveport dentist, Dr. Ben Kaco places in your jawbone. Typically, Shreveport’s Dentist will use two to four implants. However,  depending on your unique situation, your dentist can place up to ten implants. Once the implants have been placed in your jaw, an implant-retained or implant-supported denture (also known as an overdenture) can be fitted. The overdenture may be fixed in place permanently or removable for cleaning. 

Advantages of Implant Supported Dentures

When compared to traditional Shreveport dentures, snap-in dentures offer several advantages. Let’s look at some of them and how they can assist you in making the best decision for your situation:

  • Snap-in dentures are more stable than traditional dentures.
  • You’re less likely to stutter when speaking.
  • Snap-in dentures help with chewing. People can eat harder and stickier foods. Snap-in dentures fit better and are more comfortable than traditional dentures. 
  • Snap-in dentures reduce the friction on the gums.
  • Many people believe that snap-in dentures look more natural than traditional dentures.
  • Snap-in dentures preserve the jawbone and prevent further bone loss.

How to Look After Snap-In Dentures

Regardless of the type of dentures you choose, maintenance is essential to getting the most out of your investment over time. Our friend and modern dentures Easton PA specialist, Dr. David Mongham explains some denture care tips. If your snap-in dentures haven’t been screwed into place, brush the gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth with a soft-bristled brush every day before wearing them. Before brushing, rinse your dentures to remove any loose food and debris. To remove particles from the surface of the snap-in dentures, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleaner. When you are not wearing your snap-in dentures, you should store them in water until you need them again.

Candidates for Snap-in Dentures

Snap-in dentures can help people who have lost the majority of their teeth due to injury, dental decay, or periodontal disease. This may also be a better option for those who do not wish to deal with the drawbacks of traditional dentures. Contact Shreveport’s Dentist to see if you qualify! 

Teeth In A Day Procedure

Teeth In a Day Procedure


Looking for a permanent solution for your missing teeth? Shreveport’s Teeth in a Day procedure could be a great fit! If the idea of secure, beautiful new teeth in one day sounds appealing, we encourage you to read on and learn more about this process! 

What are Dental Implants? 

Dental Implants are a safe, well-established cosmetic solution for missing teeth. Using the All-On-4® protocol, we provide permanent replacement teeth with no bone graft and minimal discomfort. Dr. Ben Kacos has extensive training in all facets of oral and maxillofacial surgery, allowing him to give patients a full arch of replacement teeth during a single office visit.

Dental implants are widely considered to be the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. Not only do they eliminate common frustrations caused by missing teeth, but implants are durable, predictable, and deliver superior aesthetic results. Dr. Ben Kacos is trusted by our expertise in restorative dentistry Shreveport, which ensures positive outcomes for even the most difficult cases. Furthermore, dental implants surpass other tooth replacement options in terms of performance, function, comfort, and appearance explains Dr. Dave Mongham, dental implants College Hill PA specialist.

Same Day Teeth: All-on-Four Benefits

We take great pride in helping patients achieve healthy, luminous smiles with dental implants. In just one day, enjoy the smile of your dreams: a life-changing experience! In addition to an improved smile in one-day, this advanced implant technique is easier, more convenient, and allows you to enjoy all the benefits of functional teeth without a long wait: 

  • Maximum regenerative chewing and speech functionality
  • Instant natural results, whether you need a tooth or a full set of teeth.
  • Reach confidence to smile, engage in social activities, and enjoy life.
  • Prevent bone loss and jaw atrophy
  • Easy to care for and clean up
  • Convenient and secure fit
  • Restores facial contours, giving a more youthful look.
  • New teeth in only one day
  • Affordable price with flexible payment plans

Improving the Smile, One Day at a Time

All-On-4® is a truly revolutionary in-office procedure that can transform a patient’s smile in a single visit. Equally, patient comfort is a top priority at all times. That means we will discuss all your anesthesia-recovery concerns and everything in between. This takes an average of about 5-7 hours to have your “one-day teeth.”

Wondering if you’re a candidate for the all? Ask for an appointment to learn more about the same-day implants and the life-changing benefits they provide. Shreveport’s Dentist will gladly answer all your questions and outline treatment options based on your periodontal assessment and objectives. So, are you ready to make a positive change and make your smile better? Please contact us today!

5 Things Your Dental Hygienist Wishes You Knew

5 things your dental hygienist wishes your knew

4 Things Your Dental Hygienist Wishes You Knew About Your Dental Hygiene: 2021 

When you visit our dental office in Shreveport, LA, your dental hygienist will always be a friendly face. We take pride in not just being your favorite dental office but also consider all of our patients’ family. That being said, we not only care about your oral health but your well-being. As a result, your hygienist will learn a lot about how you’ve been keeping up with your oral routine. At Shreveport’s Dentist, our dental hygienists will often ask questions to determine if your answers are consistent with your oral health. This way, they’ll be able to assist you. However, you’d be surprised what your hygienist knows already. Below, we explore 4 things your dental hygienist wishes you knew about your dental hygiene.

Hygienists Know if You Floss

Even if you say you do, they know right away if you actually do. When your gums are too sensitive to handle the “pokes” of our dental tools, it can be apparent if you floss or not. The buildup of tartar is another obvious sign. Oftentimes you may be brushing and flossing daily, but they can still see things that are not visible to you.

Keep Your Hygiene Appointment

You may think it’s ok to skip your dental hygiene appointment. We know things come up, absolutely. But if you can avoid it, your dental hygienist encourages you to look at those appointments as a priority in your oral and full-body health. Consider it self-care.

Also, your Shreveport Dental Hygienists’ schedule is much different than your dentist. Dr. Kacos can leave openings in his schedule for emergency dental visits. Our hygiene schedule will fill up fast, especially at the beginning of the year. All dental offices struggle with this. We always do our best to accommodate if a patient needs to reschedule. However, it puts your oral health at risk if you don’t stay on top of your professional teeth cleanings.

Dental Hygienists Won’t Lecture You 

Trying to convince patients to take their oral health seriously can be exhausting, especially because the principles of oral care are quite basic. If you don’t want to hear the same thing said every time you come for a cleaning, don’t worry, you won’t. Hygienists get a degree in dental hygiene because of their compassionate nature and excellent interpersonal skills. We are always aware of patients’ anxiety and/or concerns when choosing a new dentist in Shreveport.

Visit Your Dentist Often 

Our team is here to help you achieve good oral health. We want you to feel confident in the way your smile looks and feels. When you visit your dentist in Shreveport, LA, every six months, you can avoid serious health issues. Your hygienist will professionally clean your smile, and Dr. Kacos will further examine it for any signs of gum disease or oral cancer. You can also avoid the higher cost of more complex dental treatments. Contact Dr. Kacos’s office today to schedule your appointment with us. If you want to skip a consultation, you can always submit a virtual consultation, and our team will get back to you with a recommended treatment plan!

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in November 2018 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

Help Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety

How to Help Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety 

help your child overcome dental anxiety - Dr. KacosSurveys estimate that about 80% of American adults are scared to visit the dentist. Additionally, more than 50% admit to having dental anxiety. The concept of visiting the dentist raises nerves for both patients and children. It’s normal that children may often find dental visits very overwhelming. Is your kid afraid of the dentist? If so, read the following tips by Dr. Kacos on how to help your child overcome dental anxiety. 

Get Started Young

Start your child’s dental visits early. Kids should have their first dental appointment as soon as possible—ideally on their first birthday explains kids dentist Parker CO, Dr. Christopher Green. Dental offices are designed to help children have a relaxed visit. In extreme cases, a pediatric dentist can use medications, such as oxygen inhalation or nitrous oxide. More importantly, communication between the parent, dentist, and child creates confidence and trust that lasts a lifetime.

Always Lead By Example

A smart way to get your kid ready for regular dental checkups and teeth brushing is to take them with you to the best dentist in Shreveport LA. If you show your child that you’re relaxed, or maybe even having fun, they can conquer a lot of their anxiety. By going with you, your child will find out how visiting a dentist will help avoid health problems when they get older.

Ask Around

After 2-3 sessions, your child will get more used to the dentist’s routine. If you’re not sure where to look for a family dentist in Shreveport, LA, ask around. You can try searching online and looking at dental office reviews. Your local doctor, work colleagues, or friends can be an excellent source for recommendations.

Show Your Child that the Dentist is a Friend

When your child is seeing Dr. Kacos for the very first time, he will do his best to welcome your child in a fun and exciting way. It’s normal for your child to be shy at first. 

By taking your child to regular dental examinations at a very early age, instead of waiting, your child will get into a routine and feel more comfortable.

Familiarize Them With the Dentist

Reading from a lively, enjoyable book helps children relax. A lot of books have been published about seeing a dentist. They generally explain what’s going on in a dentist’s chair and put characters in funny scenarios so that kids can see that seeing Shreveport’s dentist isn’t a big deal. When children see their favorite characters get their teeth brushed, they’re going to think it’s not that bad.

Be There With Your Child

When your child visits the dentist for the first time ever, they may feel anxiety regardless of how much you’ve trained them. By staying close, you will help your child stay calm and positive. This is a perfect way to help your child conquer the dentist’s fears and eventually get comfortable going on their own.

Have a Backup Plan

It’s common for children to be troublesome, so it’s always best to consult with a dentist and dental hygienist before the visit and to reveal some details about your child. Tell them about their siblings, their favorite Disney character, or their new puppy. This way, the dentist can talk about things that your child can relate to if there’s a bumpy moment. Only by changing their state of mind for a minute, anxiety can be removed and tears stopped.

Reward Them

A reward is really helping to put a smile on your child’s face in a big way. For example, if your little sweetheart can brave the entire treatment, they’ll get a treat, like a new book or a trip to their favorite restaurant. You can even set up a game! 

Visit a Family Dentist in Shreveport, LA

These pointers will help you properly control your child’s dental anxiety. However, if you need experienced clinical support, please contact a therapist to help your child be more willing and able to stay calm in the dentist’s office.

At our dental office in Shreveport, LA,  Dr. Kacos, and his team provide comprehensive dental care to all, including infants. Contact Shreveport Dental Solutions today for more detail about how we will take care of your child’s oral health and help them conquer their fear of the dentist.

How to Avoid a Chipped Tooth

How to Avoid a Chipped Tooth

How to avoid chipped teeth - Dr. Ben KacosSome foods are harder to consume than others, and they can potentially hurt your teeth if you’re not careful. Don’t worry! You don’t have to give up your favorite dishes or limit your holiday feasts. Just be mindful about which foods can chip or crack your teeth so that you can defend against it. In the article below, Shreveport’s dentist Dr. Ben Kacos shares some tips on how to avoid a chipped tooth. 

How Do Teeth Chip?

There are a lot of ways that someone can chip one or more of their teeth. Using your teeth to open bottles, hitting your teeth on objects, getting hit by someone or something, and clenching your teeth while doing activities are some of the most common causes of chipped teeth.  

While the emergency dentist in Shreveport LA can easily repair chips in your teeth, it is important to get care promptly. If the chips are left untreated and they continue to get worse, they can cause cracks or breaks. That’s why it’s so important for you to deal with any harm to your teeth as soon as possible. 

Tips to Avoid A Chipped Tooth

The following are three very good suggestions that can be used when someone has a chipped tooth and doesn’t want it to get worse. When it comes to repairing a chip in a tooth vs. fixing a split tooth or a broken tooth, it is much simpler for a 71105 dentist  to repair the chip.

  • Stray away from consuming super hard foods – popcorn, candy, corn, nuts, etc.
  • Avoid using your teeth to open anything – bottles, cans, etc.
  • Don’t chew on objects – pens, fingernails, etc. 

How to Avoid Further Chipping 

Why is it important for someone who has a chip in one or more of their teeth to do everything they can to keep it from getting worse? If you leave a chipped tooth untreated, it can lead to additional dental problems: tooth enamel damage, tooth infection, tooth abscess, excessive sensitivity of the tooth, tooth pain, and even tooth loss.

What To Do If You Chip a Tooth 

Perhaps a chipped tooth is inevitable. What you do when you chip or break a tooth depends on how severe the crack or chip is. For example, if the chip is tiny and doesn’t make you feel any discomfort, you may be fine waiting for your next dental appointment to make it happen. At that point, the best dentist in Shreveport can recommend that you repair it or leave it alone if it does not or is not especially noticeable to you.

Of course, if you snap a tooth and experience discomfort, it’s best to see Dr. Kacos as soon as you can. You can feel it when you try to eat or when you bite. Even if you notice minimal chipping or cracking, your dentist will need to treat you for any degree of discomfort. Then you can avoid further damage and save your tooth. Dr. Kacos will see you for a full-mouth evaluation, get dental x-rays, and set up a treatment plan. 

At the end of the day, secure your tooth while you wait for medication. You will want to stick to soft foods to avoid putting pressure on a damaged tooth or at least try to avoid using a wounded tooth while chewing or biting says our friend and Emergency dentist Denver Highlands, Dr. Sean O’Grady.

Visit Your Emergency Dentist in Shreveport, LA 

Our dental office in Shreveport, LA, offers same-day dental emergency services. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, contact Dr. Kacos immediately. Emergency appointments fill up fast, but we will do our best to get you in the office and out of pain ASAP!

Advantages of Porcelain Veneers

Advantages of Porcelain Veneers

Have you ever shied away from a group photo because you felt self-conscious about your smile? Then cosmetic dentistry might just be the answer for you! Whether tooth discoloration is the issue, or if it’s gaps in your teeth, then you should think of getting porcelain veneers. Our cosmetic dentistry Shreveport LA helps you figure out whether porcelain veneers are the right answer to your teeth problems.

Below, we introduce you to the various advantages of porcelain veneers, so that you can be well informed when seeking dental treatment.

1.They are Minimally Invasive

When compared to other dental restorations, like dental crowns, porcelain veneers have been found to be less intrusive. Your Shreveport LA cosmetic dentist will shave half a millimeter of the front surface of your teeth in order to make room for your veneers. This may sound like a lot so let’s put it in contrast. When getting dental crown repair Shreveport LA dentist will file your teeth until the crown fits on the whole tooth. On the other hand, porcelain veneers are attached only to your tooth’s front surface, where it’s visible to other people. As you can see, it isn’t so much, so there’s no need to worry. 

During the procedure for getting your veneers, you may or may not require any anesthesia. 

2. They Look Natural

These veneers are developed based on the impressions that your dentist takes of your teeth. This means that the color and contouring of the porcelain shell of your veneers will resemble the enamel of your teeth. 

Apart from looking natural, the veneers also feel natural. The ceramic covering obscures cracked or stained teeth, providing you with a protective shell, thus allowing you to talk and eat normally without feeling self-conscious. Alternatively, you could get your stained teeth cleaned or get our 71105 dentist to take a look at your cracked teeth and fix them right up for you. 

After your veneers have been created in the lab, your cosmetic dentist in Shreveport LA may make a few small adjustments by matching their color to your teeth enamel or cutting any excess material. That way, they are customized to fit over your teeth in a way that both feels and looks natural.

3. They are Easy to Maintain

There’s nothing new when it comes to taking care of your porcelain veneers. All you need to do is to take care of them as you would your teeth. However, to make sure that we’re on the same page, let’s go over the proper way to take care of your teeth.

Our friend and Colorado Springs dentist, Dr. Cody Boals, explains that you should brush your teeth twice a day and floss every day to reduce the buildup of tartar and plaque. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and a pea-size amount of toothpaste. Brush your teeth in a gentle circular motion.  

Additionally, you should make sure that you schedule dental checkups with your dentist. This will help you retain the natural color shine in your veneers. That way, you can enjoy your healthy and beautiful smile for years. Because veneers are not porous, they are resistant to cavities and permanent stains, unlike your natural tooth enamel, making the maintenance minimal at best.

4. They Fix Cosmetic Dental Issues

Porcelain veneers can be used to fix various dental issues, such as:

  1. Discolored or stained teeth
  2. Misshapen, broken or chipped teeth
  3. Missing teeth
  4. Gaps between teeth

For any minute cosmetic dental issues, you should discuss with your dentist in Shreveport LA on whether you’re eligible for getting porcelain veneers. They can help boost your confidence by covering up any discolored teeth or closing gaps between your teeth.

5. They’re Stain Resistant and Durable

As mentioned above, porcelain veneers are resistant to stains. Additionally, they decay better, in comparison with natural teeth. If they’re taken care of properly, your veneers can last 10-15 years. So take proper care of them. This may include refraining from drinking too much coffee as it can eventually stain your veneers. Furthermore, you shouldn’t use your front teeth to bite down on hard foods and other substances like ice. This may chip your veneers if you aren’t careful.

If you’re interested in getting porcelain veneers or have any questions regarding them, feel free to call us on 318-745-7135. Dr. Ben Kacos is a licensed dentist who not only knows how to fix teeth but understands how important it is to have a good dentist and orthodontist, having spent a lot of time in their offices for his crooked teeth and poor bite when he was younger. 

He is therefore dedicated to improving the lives of his patients. Contact Shreveport’s Dentist today and let us restore your confidence in your smile, giving you that million-dollar smile!

What to Expect at a Dental Consultation

What to expect at a dental consultation - Dr. KacosWhat to Expect at a Dental Consultation

When visiting a new dentist for the first time, you should make sure you schedule a consultation with an experienced and licensed dentist in Shreveport LA. Here, the dentist will evaluate the condition of your teeth.  Our 71105 dentists are here to help you achieve optimum oral cavity health while improving your overall health and well-being. 

If you’re still feeling a little anxious about what’ll happen during your first visit, we’ve broken it down for you so you’ll know exactly what to expect during a dental consultation.

Initial Paperwork

First, we will require you to fill out paperwork. This will include basic information like your full name, address, and your dental and health history. If you have dental insurance, ensure that you carry your insurance card with you. In addition to this, if you’re changing dentists, you should call your previous dentist’s office. You can request your dental records be sent to your new dentist’s office to make the transition smoother. 

Basic Dental Exam

After you fill out the necessary paperwork, we will direct you to the examination room for a dental exam. The basic examination is usually performed by a dental hygienist, who will be making preliminary notes for Shreveport’s Dentist, Dr. Ben Kacos. He will assess your jaw bone, mouth, gums, and teeth. Dr. Kacos will check for worn dentition, receding gums, gum disease, enamel erosion, or any cavities. 

Your new dentist will conduct a more thorough examination of your oral health.  You should keep in mind that every consultation is different, as it depends on your needs. The dentist will then establish the state of your dental health, to help them make decisions concerning any treatments that you may need. If you require any dental procedures like dental implants Shreveport dentist, Dr. Kacos may recommend courses of treatment. 

Dental X-Rays

During your first visit at a new dental practice, x-rays of your teeth will be taken. This will help your dentist learn more about your dental health. X-rays provide additional information that the naked eye may not have noticed, says our colleague and dentist in Easton PA, Dr. Dave Moghadam This includes information on the structure and health of your bones, jaws and teeth. X-rays may, for example, show cavities which may reflect as shadowy, dark areas. 

Discuss Your Options 

After this, you will then have a sit down with the best dentist in Shreveport LA, who will then inquire on the specifics of your visit, i.e. the purpose of your visit or what are your oral health goals, etc. You should answer these questions as honestly as you possibly can to ensure that both you and your dentist are on the same page when it comes to the goals you want to achieve. Your dentist will make recommendations. This will include the best way to go about your goals, based on your consultation exams.

If you already know what you’d like done, for instance, a cosmetic procedure, then you’re in luck! Dr. Ben Kacos is a cosmetic dentist in Shreveport LA that can provide you with information concerning the procedure, its administration, treatment plan, and anything else that you may need to know before making a decision.

Some cosmetic procedures, such as dental crown repair Shreveport LA, usually take a short amount of time to complete, so if you’d like to get it done on the same day as your consultation, your cosmetic dental provider in Shreveport LA may guide you on the way forward.

After we add your dental exam results and x-rays to your file, you and your dentist can then develop a treatment plan.  This will outline the best course of action for you and the steps needed for you to achieve your desired results. Sometimes, depending on your dental needs and goals, all that may be required are cleanings and regular dental exams. For in-depth procedures, you may schedule additional appointments. 

Schedule a Dental Consultation

 If you would like to visit a dentist but have no new prospects in mind, you can search, “virtual dental consultation near me” and look through the reviews posted on different dental practice websites online. Additionally, you can also call us today at Shreveport’s Dentist on 318-745-7135, we are happy to help.

Maximize Dental Benefits Before They Expire

Use Your Dental Benefits Before they Expire

Maximize Dental Benefits Before They Expire

As the end of the year fast approaches, it is time to consider your remaining dental benefits. The vast majority of insurance plans, both dental and medical, run on an annual renewal basis. This means that any unused benefits remaining on December 31st will expire as the clock ticks over into the new year. With this in mind, consider reaching out to the best dentist in Shreveport, LA, to learn more about how to maximize dental benefits before they expire.

Use the Benefits, or Lose the Benefits

All dental insurance plans offer set numbers of treatments and costs that they will cover during the calendar year. This could include two cleanings a year and a set cap on restorative procedures like fillings.

This amount can, of course, vary by insurance plan. Please take advantage of what is offered through the plan that you are paying for, so you don’t lose out on them for that year. If you’re experiencing tooth pain that comes and goes, it can be tempting to put it off. Use the dental benefits available. It’s better to schedule your appointment with a dentist, Dr. Kacos. This way, if you need more extensive work done on the tooth, it can be broken up across calendar years so that you can better manage it financially. 

Scheduling Routine Checkups and Cleanings

Most insurance plans account for two checkups and two professional cleanings every calendar year. Dr. Hoang, a dentist near Bethlehem, GA, recommends being seen for a checkup every six months. These checkup appointments allow us to detect any concerns when they are in their early stages. The earlier that concern is diagnosed and addressed, the better the prognosis is for the tooth and the patient as a whole.

Routine checkups, for the whole family, are an investment in your dental wellness. Checkups can get a small cavity treated today, versus needing to face an emergency root canal Shreveport patients will dread.

Annual Deductibles Reset in the New Year

The insurance deductible is the total that you are responsible for before the insurance company kicking in to cover the costs of your dental treatments. The amount will vary between insurance companies and plans. For example, some may have a deductible of $1,500 that you need to cover out of your pocket before they cover any amount over that.

Deductibles will reset at the start of the new calendar year. This means that the money you have paid into your deductible for this year does not apply to your deductible for next year. Take advantage of what you have paid this year, and get the most out of your dental insurance benefits.

Delaying Treating could Result in more Extensive Dental Work.

Delaying your treatment can feel like the right decision if you are nervous about dental procedures. It can also be easy to put off something that feels like a minor issue. Delaying getting seen for these concerns could put you at risk for needing more extensive treatments. This, of course, could include further cost considerations.

More Room in your Budget for Cosmetic Work

Making the most of your available insurance benefits will allow you the flexibility to explore cosmetic options. This may include porcelain veneers and Invisalign. Those interested in teeth whitening in Shreveport may have to pay out of pocket for treatment because it’s not covered by many dental insurance plans. If you make the most of your dental benefits, you’ll ultimately pay less for your dental treatments. This will allow you to look into whitening, veneers, and other great cosmetic solutions.

Are you in need of a professional cleaning or your 6-month checkup? Contact Shreveport’s Dentist to find out more about what benefits you may have left to use for the remainder of the year. It’s always a better plan to stay proactive about your dental wellness versus needing to be seen by our emergency dentist in Shreveport, LA, when things escalate.