Portrait of comfortable woman in winter clothes relaxing on armchair.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Dental Implant?

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Dental implants are a fantastic option for patients who have lost or extracted teeth and are seeking a more permanent solution than partial dentures. These versatile, long-lasting restorations are placed into the bone of the jaw for optimum function and look completely natural. If you are visiting Broadway Family Dentistry and are interested in dental implants, it is critical that you talk to Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen to determine if you are a proper candidate for these restorations.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small, titanium posts that are inserted into the jawbone to serve as an anchor for replacement teeth. Unlike bridges or dentures, which require adjacent teeth for support, dental implants stand alone and provide a secure foundation for artificial teeth. They can be used to replace one tooth or several in a row.

Who Makes a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

  • A good candidate for dental implants needs to have healthy gums and enough bone in the jaw to support an implant.
  • Candidates should also be in good overall health, with no major medical or systemic issues. Poor oral hygiene habits can lead to a greater risk of complications with dental implants, so maintaining good oral health is essential.
  • Patients should not use tobacco products as these can interfere with the healing process and potentially increase the risk of implant failure.
  • Candidates must be willing to commit to regular follow-up visits for monitoring and maintenance of their dental implants.

Ultimately, Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen will evaluate each patient on an individual basis and assess their candidacy for dental implants before treatment begins. A comprehensive evaluation, including x-rays and health history, will be used to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants and what type of treatment would be best suited for your needs.

Once candidacy is established, the team at Broadway Family Dentistry will explain your options and create an individualized plan to ensure that you receive the highest quality of care.

Find Out if You Are a Proper Candidate for Dental Implants!

If you have been considering dental implants, we encourage you to contact Broadway Family Dentistry today to schedule an appointment with any of our experienced implant dentists. Our office is located in Minot, ND, and can be reached by calling 701-839-1299.

Mature irritated woman in bed with snoring husband

What Can Nightlase® Do for Me?

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If you or your sleeping partner deal with snoring, you may have tried a variety of recommendations before feeling defeated. This may include repositioning yourself or your partner while sleeping or wearing special snoring mouthguards that are supposed to reduce this problematic night-time noise. But did you know that your dentist at Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, ND, can help? Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen can evaluate a patient and decide if they are a proper candidate for a specialized treatment designed to eliminate snoring known as the NightLase® service.

What Is Nightlase®?

NightLase® is a new, innovative laser treatment specifically designed to reduce the effects of snoring. It uses low-level lasers to gently heat up the soft tissues in the throat area and stimulate collagen production, which can help make these tissues more toned and less likely to vibrate when you breathe. This reduces snoring, allowing you both to get a better night’s sleep.

What Are the Benefits of Nightlase® Treatment?

There are a few reasons why patients who visit Broadway Family Dentistry consider the NightLase® treatment. Below are a couple of the advantages they provide which make them a reliable and effective option for patients who snore:

  • NightLase® is quick and easy. Treatment only takes about 15 minutes and requires no anesthesia or recovery time.
  • NightLase® results are long-lasting. After just one treatment session, most of our patients find that they do not have to treat their snoring again for months at a time!
  • NightLase® is affordable. Patients often find NightLase® to be an affordable and effective way of addressing unwanted snoring when compared to other treatment options.

Schedule an Appointment To Learn More About Nightlase®

So if you are looking for an effective way to reduce your snoring without surgery or drugs, NightLase® might be appropriate for you! Call the team at Broadway Family Dentistry at 701-839-1299 to request an appointment at our Minot, ND, area practice to find out more about NightLase® as a treatment for snoring. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen have years of combined experience in providing quality dentistry to those in and around the community at their state-of-the-art dental office.

The tender loving touch of a partner is priceless

Do You Need a Smile Makeover?

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A smile makeover can give you a brand-new look that boosts your confidence and leaves people talking about your incredible smile. At Broadway Family Dentistry, Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Minot, ND, have helped many patients achieve the perfect look they have always wanted with gentle treatments and expert techniques. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that each patient gets top-notch care while staying comfortable throughout the process. Many patients who are unhappy with the appearance of their smile may be curious to learn more about the smile makeover process–and whether or not it can help them address specific issues within the smile.

What Is a Smile Makeover?

A smile makeover is a procedure that addresses many different aesthetic flaws within the smile. It may include teeth whitening, bonding, contouring certain teeth, or placing dental crowns on badly damaged teeth. The exact process involved in a smile makeover will depend on each patient’s specific needs and goals for their new look. This makes it an excellent solution for patients self-conscious about their appearance because it can address many different issues all at once.

What Can a Smile Makeover Help With?

Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen have treated countless patients with various cosmetic dentistry procedures to improve the smile’s appearance in Minot, ND. Their goal has always been to give each patient a smile they have always desired by using advanced techniques along with a gentle touch. Some of the most common reasons that patients seek out a smile makeover are to address chipped, broken, or missing teeth; misaligned and crooked teeth; discoloration; gaps between teeth; and an uneven gumline.

How Long Is the Procedure?

The length of a smile makeover will vary depending on which specific treatments are involved in your individual case. A simple teeth whitening may only take one or two visits, whereas more involved procedures such as dental veneers may involve several weeks for the veneers to be crafted. During your first consultation with Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen, you can discuss the timeframe in which you would like to complete the process to set up a timeline of necessary appointments to achieve your goals.

Schedule a Visit With Our Team Today To Discuss Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

If you are seeking a dentist who puts your needs first, contact Broadway Family Dentistry today to learn more about our smile makeover services for those in and around the area of Minot, ND! We can help you achieve a fantastic new look that will last for many years to come and looks completely natural! Call 701-839-1299 today to request your consultation visit.

curly woman flossing

How Flossing Can Improve Your Oral Health and Wellness

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While we think of brushing as the primary method of cleaning the teeth, it is important that you do not forget to also floss between your teeth. Flossing is critical to removing food particles between the teeth that can become stuck and might not be accessible with a toothbrush. At Broadway Family Dentistry of Minot, ND, Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen believe in educating patients, young and old, about the benefits of flossing their teeth and how it impacts oral health.

How does flossing improve your dental health?

Our team at Broadway Family Dentistry encourages patients to consider the benefits of flossing. Below are just a few of the advantages that flossing has:

  • Removes bacteria and food particles from hard-to-reach areas. Bacteria can contribute to periodontal disease, leading to irreversible damage to the smile. Additionally, food trapped between teeth can also cause the formation of decay or infection.
  • Prevents plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky substance that develops on the teeth and can harden into tartar and calculus. Flossing and brushing both help in preventing the buildup of plaque and keeping the surfaces of the teeth and gums clean.
  • Decreases risk of gum disease and cavities. Overall, flossing helps in the same way as brushing, as it reduces one’s chances of developing periodontitis and tooth decay.
  • Helps keep your breath fresh. Bad breath, also referred to medically as halitosis, is a condition that can be very embarrassing, especially when it becomes a chronic issue. Flossing removes food particles from between the teeth that can contribute to bad breath.

Incorporating flossing into your daily oral care routine is essential for maintaining overall oral health.

Don’t skip out on flossing! The team at Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, ND, encourages you to be prudent about brushing and flossing your teeth while maintaining routine dental visits for examinations and cleanings. If you are looking for a new dental team, call Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Broadway Family Dentistry to learn more. The practice can be reached at 701-839-1299 to request a visit with the help of our front office team.

The best beverages for your smile

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Cavities and periodontal disease are the two main threats to teeth and gums. While we know that cavities can form and be treated with fillings, it is best to avoid them in the first place. With the team at Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, ND, you can rest easy knowing that you have the attention of our team and the knowledge about caring for your smile. Many patients who visit Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen have questions about their diet and how it affects their smile. This is especially true for many of the beverages our patients enjoy.

What are the best drinks for the teeth?

  • Water. Our bodies need water to stay hydrated, but water is also needed to maintain proper saliva production. It is a calorie-free, fat-free solution to thirst! City water also has added fluoride, which can strengthen teeth and protect against cavities. There is no added sugars or acids to worry about, making it appropriate for all ages.
  • Milk. Milk contains three ingredients well-known for supporting strong, healthy teeth. This includes calcium phosphorus and vitamin D. In addition to strengthening teeth, these ingredients also replace lost minerals. Caseins in milk also create a protective barrier for the teeth to keep acids from eating away at natural tooth enamel.
  • Unsweetened dairy alternatives. For those unable to tolerate dairy products but want to enjoy the benefits of milk, alternative dairy products such as soy, almond, and rice milk can be a great swap. Choose those that have added calcium to maintain strong teeth.

Request a visit with Broadway Family Dentistry today!

Taking care of your smile means more than just daily brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist. What you consume can also impact oral health. If you have questions about caring for your smile, the team at Broadway Family Dentistry is here to help! Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen work with you to provide the care you deserve and educate you on what is best (and worst!) for your teeth and gums. Call 701-839-1299 to request a consultation visit and initial evaluation with our team.

woman eating at restaurant table healthy food

Proper nutrition and your dental health

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Proper nutrition and dental health go hand-in-hand. Eating a balanced diet and properly brushing your teeth regularly can help prevent issues such as cavities and gum disease from developing while also giving you the energy you need to live a healthy, active lifestyle. At Broadway Family Dentistry, we work routinely with patients to help them understand the link between the foods they eat and the health of their smiles. Certain foods, such as acids and sugars, can eat away at natural tooth enamel and cause cavities or sensitivity. Other foods can be hard or sticky and can cause damage to the teeth and even dental restorations.

What foods should you avoid that can impact the smile negatively?

However, many people don’t realize that there are certain foods that can be particularly harmful to their teeth. Here are just some of the worst offenders:

  • Sugary drinks like sodas, sports drinks, and energy drinks. These beverages are full of sugar, which can feed the bacteria in your mouth and lead to tooth decay. If you must drink them, remember to brush your teeth afterward.
  • Sticky sweets like candy bars and taffy. These treats get stuck in your teeth, which allows the sugar to linger and do its damage. If you can’t resist, make sure to brush thoroughly following consumption.
  • Acidic fruits like lemons and oranges. While these fruits are healthy in moderation, their acidity can wear away at your tooth enamel. If you eat them frequently, be sure to rinse your mouth with water afterward.
  • Crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery. These foods can actually be good for your teeth, but only if you chew them slowly and carefully. Biting down too hard or chewing too quickly can damage your teeth.

Request an appointment with our team at Broadway Family Dentistry

If you reside in the Minot, ND community or beyond and are interested in learning more about how the diet affects your dental health, call our office today at 701-839-1299 to schedule a consultation visit with Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen. Our practice is equipped to help with general, cosmetic, preventative, and restorative dentistry needs of our patients.

woman is holding an invisalign bracer

SureSmile® clear aligner therapy allows straight teeth without metal braces

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At Broadway Family Dentistry, we understand how an imperfectly aligned smile can impact one’s self-confidence and result in embarrassment or poor self-esteem. Thanks to Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen, you can learn about ways to realign the smile without traditional braces, including our popular SureSmile® clear aligner therapy treatment option.

How does SureSmile® clear aligner therapy work?

The first step is to visit Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen who are trained in the SureSmile® system. They will conduct a thorough evaluation of your mouth and teeth to determine if you are a good candidate for the treatment. If they decide you are, they will take digital images and x-rays of your mouth, which will be used for creating a 3D model of your teeth.

Once the model is formed, our team utilizes special software to design a personalized treatment plan for you. This plan will map exactly how your teeth need to be moved to achieve the desired result and create a series of custom-made aligners.

You will need to wear each aligner for about two weeks before moving on to the next one in the series. As you progress through treatment, the teeth gradually shift into new positions. You will need to visit Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen periodically so they can check on your progress and make sure that everything is going according to plan.

Once your treatment is completed, you wear a retainer to keep your teeth in their new positions. Wearing a retainer is an essential part of the treatment process, so make sure that you follow your dentist’s instructions carefully.

Call Broadway Family Dentistry of Minot, ND, to learn more about the SureSmile® clear aligner system!

If you are seeking an orthodontic treatment that is effective, efficient, and comfortable, look no further than SureSmile® clear aligner therapy. This treatment is best for patients who have mild to moderate misalignments, and it can be completed in a shorter period of time than traditional braces. Contact Broadway Family Dentistry of Minot, ND, today to schedule a consultation with our experienced dentists and learn more about this amazing orthodontic option. Our office can be reached at 701-839-1299 to request this appointment.

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What to expect before, during, and after dental bonding is done to a tooth

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Rejuvenating the appearance of the smile can be achieved with the help of a cosmetic dentist. At Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, ND, men and women interested in smile enhancement will want to ask about the many aesthetic treatments available. Our team of professionals works with individuals to help them understand their options, including dental bonding.

How does dental bonding work?

Also known as composite resin bonding, dental bonding involves the placement of a composite resin material onto a tooth to act as coverage for imperfections such as gaps, chips, and cracks in the natural teeth.

What to expect before, during, and after dental bonding

When it comes to dental bonding, there are a few things you should know before, during, and after the procedure. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Before dental bonding, your dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth and prepare them for the bonding material. They will then roughen up the surface of your teeth so that the bonding material can adhere properly. Once your teeth are ready, your dentist will choose the right shade of bonding material to match your natural tooth color.
  • During dental bonding, your dentist will carefully apply the bonding material to your teeth, shaping it until it looks natural. Once they’re happy with the shape, they’ll use a special light to harden the material. After the material has cured, your dentist will make any final adjustments and polish your teeth, so they look shiny and new.
  • After dental bonding, you can expect your teeth to look great! The bonding material is very strong and durable, and it should last for many years with proper care. Just make sure to brush and floss regularly and avoid habits like biting your nails or chewing on hard objects, as this can damage the bonding material. If you take proper care of your bonded teeth, you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come.

How do I learn more?

The team at Broadway Family Dentistry works routinely with Minot, ND area patients to educate them on the benefits of dental bonding and help in determining if an individual is an appropriate candidate. Call the office today at 701-839-1299 to request a visit with Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen.

Mixed race little patient showing her perfect toothy smile while sitting dentists chair

Why might dental extractions be necessary?

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Losing teeth is the norm when we are children. The baby teeth fall out on their own to make way for the permanent adult teeth. However, there are times when a dentist may need to remove a tooth manually. At Broadway Family Dentistry, we help Minot, ND, patients understand when it is necessary to remove a tooth through dental extraction and what to expect from the procedure. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen are committed to providing simple and surgical extractions for those needing it.

What are some of the reasons why a tooth might be extracted?

Several situations may arise in which your dentist may tell you that a dental extraction procedure may be necessary. Below are a few of the more common causes of manual tooth removal:

  • Tooth decay has reached the tooth’s pulp
  • The tooth has suffered significant damage from a previous trauma
  • A dental abscess is present
  • There is extensive gum disease present
  • The patient is suffering from a life-threatening infection
  • The patient has cancer that has spread to their jaw
  • Preparation for other treatments such as dentures or orthodontia
  • Failed root canal therapy

What types of extractions can be performed?

Two types of extractions might be used to remove a tooth. First, a simple extraction is done when impaction is not a concern. A simple extraction may be performed if the tooth is above the gum line and accessible. This requires using a unique instrument to take hold of the tooth and remove it from the bone socket. A surgical extraction is performed when a tooth has been impacted and is stuck underneath the gum line. This requires the dentist to cut into the gums and remove the tooth from the jawbone. It is a more invasive procedure and does require a few days of recovery following the surgery.

How do I learn more about dental extractions?

At Broadway Family Dentistry of Minot, ND, we understand that you have many options for dental services in the community. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen are here to help you determine the best solution for your unique needs. Call 701-839-1299 to request an appointment at our facility and speak to our team about dental extractions.

Dentist holding dentures in office room.

What you need to know about dentures

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Dentures continue to be an affordable way for patients to repair the smile after tooth loss. At Broadway Family Dentistry, Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen can educate you on the types of dentures available and what you need to know to protect and care for them over time.

Below are just a few of the common questions we hear from patients who are considering dentures for their smiles:

How long do dentures last?

With proper care, you can enjoy your dentures for many years. Our team can educate you on how to take care of your dentures to extend their longevity and ensure you get the most for your money!

What are the different types of dentures?

There are various types of dentures that patients can consider depending on the number of teeth they need to replace.

  • Partial dentures. Drs. Jensen and Hirst may recommend partial dentures for patients missing one or more teeth in the dental arch. These metal and acrylic appliances slide into place using the existing teeth for support and place false teeth where needed to repair the smile.
  • Full dentures. The more traditional type of denture is the full denture, which replaces all the teeth in your dental arch. These are made of high-quality acrylic to ensure they look as natural as possible in the smile. You keep these dentures in place with denture adhesives or natural suction.
  • Implant-retained dentures. One of the most popular options is the implant-retained denture. This is a denture that is more conservative and uses several mini dental implants along the arch that hold the full denture in place. Patients can enjoy all their favorite foods with implant-retained dentures, eliminating the fear of dentures sliding or falling out of place.

What are the benefits of dentures?

Dentures are:

  • Economical
  • Easy to use
  • Simple to clean and care for
  • Long-lasting
  • Adjustable
  • Natural-looking
  • Often covered by insurance

How do I care for my dentures?

Your dentist will supply you with denture care instructions to ensure that you protect your investment and enjoy your dentures. Denture care varies depending on the type of denture you have in place.

Who do I call to learn more?

Broadway Family Dentistry of Minot, ND is here to help educate you on dentures and other tooth replacement options available. Call for an appointment at 701-839-1299 today!