Lifetime Dental Group | Canton Dentist

Healthy Gums… Healthy YOU!

We've all heard of gum disease, but do you know that much about it? Gum disease can be really sinister and that's why dentists like us at Lifetime Dental Care in South Lyon and Canton are vigilant about it. You see, gum disease is caused by bacteria building up on and underneath your gums. Gum disease begins with barely noticeable symptoms to you (dentists are able to see it forming).

Here are some common symptoms of gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease:

* Red gums, not pink
* Swollen gums
* Tender gums
* Bleeding gums, particularly when you brush or floss
* Bad breath
* A little discomfort or tenderness when eating or drinking

You should know that most people tell us they didn’t worry when they saw a little blood on their toothbrush. However, after a while, it just becomes normal for them. But it’s anything but normal. It's vital that if you have any of these signs, you let us know. Early-stage gum disease is reversible with proper care. We can usually perform a dental cleaning and help you know how to take care of your gums at home.

For many people, gum disease may never move past gingivitis, which is inflammation of your gums. Yet, there’s no way to know how or when gingivitis will progress if you don’t see a professional dentist. If it does progress, you may be dealing with periodontitis, infection of your gums. This stage of gum disease is chronic and ranges from mild to advanced. You might notice some of the same symptoms as gingivitis, so you may not know your body is now fighting an infection. Here are some other symptoms associated with periodontitis:

* Receding gums
* Longer-looking teeth
* Notches on your teeth near your gums
* Pockets in your gums
* Pain in your gums
* Loose teeth
* Changes in your bite, with either your natural teeth or dentures

As your body fights the infection, it can start attacking your jawbone too. Of course, your bone supports your teeth, so with unhealthy gums and bones, you start to lose the vital support your teeth need. That’s why periodontal disease is responsible for more tooth loss than even cavities.

The dentists at Lifetime Dental in Canton, Michigan and South Lyon, Michigan think it’s best that you're on the look out for early signs of gum disease. It's our intention to always make sure you have healthy teeth and gums. Schedule your next dental cleaning with us today.

Canton, Michigan: (734) 844-1300
South Lyon, Michigan: (248) 437-1010

Tags: bacteria, Bleeding Gums, bloody gums, bloody toothbrush, gingivitis, gum disease, gum disease symptoms, healthy gums, healthy teeth, Oral Health, Teeth

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How Can Dentistry Enhance Your Overall health?

By Dr. Russell Thaler, Periodontist in South Lyon, Michigan

I hope everyone is safe and healthy during this global pandemic. Now, more than ever, it’s important to take care of your physical, emotional. and oral health. All of our lives have been impacted by this virus. The World Health Organization states that older people, and people with pre-existing medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease) appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill with the virus.

How can Lifetime Dental in South Lyon, Michigan help?

At Lifetime Dental, many of our patients are surprised to learn that not only do we treat your oral health, but we are treating your overall health.

According to recent findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), half of Americans aged 30 or older have periodontitis (gum disease), the more advanced form of periodontal disease. This equals approximately 64.7 million Americans.

Periodontal disease has been extensively linked with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, cancer, osteoporosis, and respiratory disease. As oral healthcare providers, we are also often the first to notice something in your mouth that could be associated with your overall health.

During our comprehensive exam, we will evaluate you for oral cancer, oral disease, cavities, and gum disease and establish a comprehensive treatment plan. Our treatment of any of these dental or gum issues will not only improve your oral health but will improve your overall general health too by reducing the inflammation and/or infection that harming your body.

Here at Lifetime Dental in South Lyon, Michigan, we care deeply about you and your health. We are here for you now and always.

Tags: Dentist, Dentistry, Dentists, Detroit Dentist, Oral Health, Russell Thaler, South Lyon, South Lyon Dentist, South Lyon Michigan, Teeth

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4 Benefits of Teeth Whitening

By Dr. David Kam

The Benefits of Having a Brighter Smile

Your smile is one of the first things that people notice when they meet you. Straight, white teeth are no longer just for celebrities. Advancements in cosmetic dentistry over the last several years have made teeth whitening safer and more affordable for almost anyone wanting a brighter smile. But why is having a white smile important?

According to a national survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, 96% of adults believe an attractive smile makes a person more appealing to the opposite gender, and 74% of adults feel an unattractive smile can hurt a person's chances for career success. Having a clean, straight smile that you feel confident about enhances your social and career opportunities!

Types of Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening has become a popular cosmetic treatment in many people’s lifestyles. Everywhere you look, from social media to magazines to posters in malls, whiter teeth are everywhere!

Perhaps you are on the fence about teeth whitening. Teeth whitening is a safe, life-enhancing process that can have a positive effect on both your physical appearance and psychological health. Here are 4 benefits of teeth whitening:

1. Teeth whitening boosts your self-confidence

With teeth whitening, your self-confidence will skyrocket. Whether you're at work, on a date, giving a presentation, or just walking down the street, a smile with bright, sparkly teeth is hard to miss! Whiter teeth are also an indication to others that you take care of yourself and care about your appearance. Those around you will be able to sense this!

2. Teeth whitening enhances your appearance

You might have the healthiest teeth and straightest smile but you're not immune to the damage that everyone faces from everyday food and drink. Foods, coffee, tea, and soda stain our teeth over time. After the proper whitening procedure, you'll instantly notice the difference without having to 'filter' and/or edit your photos. Teeth whitening will help combat stains from your everyday food and drink.

3. Teeth whitening minimizes the look of wrinkles

If you’re self-conscious about wrinkles, teeth whitening may be a great option for you! Instead of focusing on wrinkles, people are more likely to focus on your bright white smile. This will draw attention away from the appearance of surrounding wrinkles, acne scars, and frown lines.

4. Teeth whitening doesn’t break the bank

Teeth whitening doesn’t cost as much as plastic surgery! A touch-up kit after an in-office treatment will be enough to prolong the effect of your teeth whitening. The combination of teeth whitening plus an at-home enhancer is a small price tag that produces big results.

At Lifetime Dental Group, we’d love to help you get the whiter smile you’ve always wanted! If you’re interested in learning more about our teeth whitening options, simply request an appointment below and one of our team members will be in contact with you soon.

Tags: Canton, Cosmetic Dentistry, David Kam, Dentistry, Dentists, Lifetime Dental, Michigan, South Lyon, Teeth Whitening, West Bloomfield, Whiter Teeth, Zoom, Zoom Teeth Whitening

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Coronavirus, Dentistry, and You!

By Dr. David Banooni, DDS

In the midst of this novel Coronavirus pandemic, making decisions regarding your oral and dental health can be challenging. Questions such as,

“Is it safe to go to the dentist?” “When do I know if I’m having a dental emergency?” or “Can I come in for my cleaning?” Can leave us confused, in pain, and searching for answers.

Here are 4 answers to your oral health questions during Coronavirus

When do I need to go and see the dentist?

During a Pandemic, the best way to protect yourself and your family is to stay at home. However dental emergencies and pain may sometimes require us to pay a visit to our dental team. The best way to decide if you need to come into the office is to have a conversation with your dental team. At Lifetime Dental, our doctors are on call and available to conduct virtual consults with patients. During these calls, we help patients understand their dental concerns and often times we can resolve problems without requiring a visit to the office. Please call our office, speak with a doctor, and get your questions answered!

How can I avoid a dental emergency?

While some dental emergencies are unavoidable, the best way to reduce your risk is with preventative care! Brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste, flossing, using an ADA approved oral rinse or mouthwash, and maintaining a lower sugar diet are still the best ways to stay healthy. Patients with a history of gum disease or those overdue for their cleanings should continue to follow these recommendations and monitor their dental team's social media page and website for updates. When it is safe, we at Lifetime Dental will resume our dental hygiene hours and get you and your smile back to full health!

So is it safe to go to the dentist?

Going to the dentist, or any healthcare professional can be a scary proposition for many during a pandemic. But your dental office should be taking additional steps to protect their patients and staff! At Lifetime Dental, we have taken steps above and beyond to ensure that all of our patients and staff are protected should you need to come to visit us. N95 masks, face shields, and gowns are all being used to protect our staff. Our offices have also invested in hospital-grade air purifiers for each room and specialized suction units to trap dental aerosols and kill the virus. Patient and staff safety continues to be our top priority.

When will I be able to get my cleaning?

In Michigan and many other states, governors have enacted orders to protect public health by limiting elective dental procedures such as cleanings. When it is safe to do so, we will resume our hygiene hours with the enhanced screening and operating protocols described above. In the meantime, continue to follow your doctor's recommended oral hygiene schedule by brushing and flossing! Check back on our social media pages and website for the latest information on when it is safe to return for your dental cleaning or call our office at any time!

As always, we cant wait to see you and your smiles

Stay Safe, Stay Healthy.

Dr. Banooni

Tags: David Banooni, Dentists, South Lyon, South Lyon Dentist, South Lyon Dentists

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Strategies for How to Make Brushing Teeth Fun

Lifetime Dental Group in Canton and South Lyon, Michigan wants to make teeth brushing teeth fun for your family! Our dental team led by Dr. David Kam has put together a few ideas to get you started:

Find Fun Dental Health Education Resources.

At Lifetime Dental, we believe that family dental care starts with an educational but fun approach. Try reading age-appropriate books and watching videos about dental hygiene with your child as you begin exploring how to make brushing teeth fun. Your child will enjoy the time you spend together learning about oral health, and you’ll enjoy the opportunity to introduce healthy habits like brushing and flossing.

Make Brushing and Flossing a Family Affair.

Setting an example for your kids is one of your most powerful tools to make brushing teeth fun. To model good dental hygiene, brush, and floss at least twice daily with your children, including once before bedtime. For younger children, you might even have them practice brushing your teeth! The routine of family brushing will establish consistency, so children will be able to learn healthy habits more easily. Plus, extra family time and attention for your child is never a bad thing! Sometimes, it takes teamwork to accomplish family goals, and proper dental care is worth the extra effort!

Create a Two-minute “Contest” For Brushing.

In addition to “how to make brushing teeth fun,” our Lifetime Dental Team of dentists and hygienists frequently answers questions like “how long children should brush their teeth.” Adults and children alike should brush teeth for two minutes twice daily, including before bedtime. To make brushing teeth fun, make a game of it, and set the timer for two minutes; the “winner” must brush for the entire two minutes without stopping. This type of game will create a sense of friendly competition and motivate your kids to brush properly.

Get Your Child a Special Toothbrush

As adults, we forget the novelty of incorporating toys into everyday life. Relive the magic of childhood and indulge your child in a special toothbrush of his or her choosing. You’ll find that, by adapting the toothbrushing process into a game with “toys” of sorts, you’ve found one special way to make brushing teeth fun.

Reward Consistent Tooth Brushing.

To really make twice-daily brushing and flossing something that really catches kids’ attention, reward their behavior. Start small by choosing a simple reward (like gold stars), and award it only when kids brush and floss as instructed (i.e. two minutes per day twice a day for brushing and once a day for flossing). Once kids have the mechanics and schedule of brushing in place, reward consistency by creating a weekly brushing calendar; each week of perfect daily brushing results in a bigger reward.

Recruit the Tooth Fairy.

Not everyone realizes that the tooth fairy pays more for teeth that are clean and cavity-free. Make sure your child knows this fact; it will go a long way in motivating your child to engage in daily brushing and flossing!

Tags: Brushing Teeth, Children, Dental, Dentists, Family, Family Dentistry, Kids, Michigan, Michigan Dentist, Teeth, Teeth Brushing, Tooth

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COVID19 Announcement

To Our Patients:

We at Lifetime Dental - Canton & South Lyon, Michigan take your health very seriously. That is why we continue to monitor the situation regarding the COVID-19 virus.

In order to ensure the safety of our patients and dental team, we are following the American Dental Association's recommendations to reschedule all preventative and non-urgent dental care.

Please know that we will continue to monitor developments and will communicate with you as necessary. Thank you and let us know if you have any questions.

Sincerely,
The Lifetime Dental Team

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