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How long does it take to recover from root canal therapy?

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If you are experiencing pain in a tooth, it’s possible that you may need root canal therapy. This is a common dental procedure that is performed by Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Minot, ND at Broadway Family Dentistry. It can help preserve the tooth and alleviate pain and discomfort. However, it’s important to understand how long the recovery process will take, and what you can do to ensure a speedy and successful recovery. In this blog post, we’ll discuss root canal therapy in detail, as well as post-operative care instructions to help you recover quickly and without complications.

What is root canal therapy?

The first step to understanding how long the recovery process might take is the first step in learning more about the benefits of root canal therapy. Root canal therapy is a unique dental procedure used for the treatment of an infected tooth. The infection is eliminated by removing the nerves and blood vessels from the root of the tooth. This leaves an empty space in the tooth’s root that can be filled with a rubber-like material.

What to expect from root canal recovery

The recovery time after root canal therapy will vary depending on each individual case. In most cases, however, people report feeling much better within a few days after the treatment has been completed. It is important to follow post-operative care instructions closely from Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen in order to ensure a speedy and successful recovery. Some of these instructions may include:

  • It is normal for the area to be sensitive, though this should dissipate within a few days. Any discomfort may be addressed with over-the-counter pain medications.
  • Keep the area clean and free from food debris, though brush and floss as normal.
  • Take any prescribed medications as directed, including pain medications and antibiotics.
  • Call the dentist if any problems persist, including pain, swelling, and redness that does not resolve on its own.

Find out more about root canal therapy

Call Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen in Minot, ND to discuss your needs following root canal therapy. The office is located at 1839 South Broadway Street and can be reached by calling (701) 839-1299.

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Are porcelain veneers stain resistant?

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There are many ways to obtain a beautiful smile with the use of cosmetic dentistry. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Minot, ND are dentists in the area who are committed to listening to patients and what they want and making their dreams a reality! At Broadway Family Dentistry, patients can ask about elective treatments such as porcelain veneers to enhance their smiles.

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers, which may also be referred to as dental veneers, are porcelain restorations made to bond onto the front of a tooth to disguise imperfections. These veneers are made extremely thin and are placed onto teeth using a special bonding material. They look completely natural as they are created to match the patient’s existing teeth.

What are the benefits of porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers have several benefits to them. They are:

  • Stain resistant
  • Long-lasting
  • Custom-fabricated
  • Made to match the smile
  • Easy to care for
  • Versatile

How can I maintain my veneers?

One of the primary benefits of porcelain veneers is, unlike other materials such as composite resin, porcelain veneers do not stain. This means they do not need to be replaced as often as alternative treatments. Patients can keep their veneers in tip-top shape longer with proper care. This includes brushing and flossing the smile to maintain proper oral hygiene and avoid foods that are hard or sticky and can damage the restorations. By visiting the dentist regularly, patients can have their veneers and other restorations evaluated to make sure they are firmly in place and functioning as they should.

Are you interested in learning more?

At Broadway Family Dentistry, we are excited to offer patients a wide range of cosmetic treatments to consider in restoring and repairing their smiles, including the fabrication and placement of porcelain veneers. Many patients choose these restorations because of their longevity and natural appearance. If you want to find out if you are a candidate for veneers, Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Minot, ND encourage patients to call the office to book an appointment. The facility is located at 1839 South Broadway Street and can be reached by phone at (701) 839-1299.

How to choose the right toothpaste

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You may have noticed the wide array of products available in the local drugstore’s oral care aisle. This can be overwhelming for many patients who are not quite sure the best products for their unique dental health needs. When it comes to choosing a toothpaste, you may find yourself perplexed as to why one is a different cost than another. Choosing the right toothpaste and other oral care products is vital to ensuring a healthy smile. If you are interested in learning more about selecting items that will meet your needs, continue reading on!

What types of specialized toothpastes are available?

Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Minot, ND’s Broadway Family Dentistry work regularly with patients to help them choose a toothpaste that meets their needs. There are certain specialized toothpastes that patients might find. These include toothpastes with added benefits, including those for patients who are seeking:

  • Enamel restoration
  • Whitening toothpastes
  • Toothpastes for sensitive teeth
  • Fluoride toothpastes
  • Dry mouth toothpastes
  • Periodontal toothpaste
  • Gum sensitivity toothpastes
  • Antimicrobial toothpaste
  • Tartar control toothpaste

Each of these have specific benefits, but which one is most important for you? It is best that patients choose a toothpaste that has fluoride and is approved by the American Dental Association. You’ll know this by the seal on the toothpaste packaging. We encourage patients to talk to their dentist about the various toothpaste varieties and which one will benefit their smile the most. Patients have certain conditions such as sensitive teeth or dry mouth will often be encouraged to consider specific toothpaste varieties at the store. In some instances, the dentist may also provide a prescription toothpaste for the patient to use to get certain conditions under control at home between visits.

Are you in need of your routine dental visit?

Contact the team at Broadway Family Dentistry of Minot, ND to learn more about choosing the right toothpaste products and keeping your teeth clean between visits. The office is located at 1839 South Broadway Street, and an appointment with Dr. Stanley Hirst or Dr. Bethany Jensen can be scheduled by calling the front office team at (701) 839-1299.

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What to expect with porcelain veneers

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Cosmetic dentistry is an area of dentistry during which a professional can help patients in enhancing and rejuvenating the appearance of their smiles. One popular cosmetic procedure is that of the porcelain veneer. Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic shells that a dentist will bond onto the front of a tooth to cover imperfections. Veneers are readily available at Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, ND, and many patients have questions about how they work.

What to expect with porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers require a few appointments to complete from start to finish. During the first visit, patients will consult with Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen about the imperfections of the smile they’d like to address. If the dentist feels as though porcelain veneers are appropriate for achieving the desired results, they will perform an evaluation to decide if the patient is a good candidate. Patients will then schedule a visit during which the tooth is filed down and roughened to help the veneer adhere to the tooth. Impressions are taken and sent to a dental laboratory where a ceramist fill fabricate the final veneer. Patients receive a temporary porcelain veneer over the prepared tooth to protect it until the new restoration arrives at the dental office. Then patients return for the removal of the temporary and the bonding of the final porcelain veneer. The entire process can take anywhere from two to four weeks, but the veneer itself can last anywhere from 10-20 years with proper care and attention.

Do porcelain veneers look natural?

Porcelain veneers are made of porcelain for a reason: this material closely resembles the appearance of a natural tooth. The ceramist who fabricates the porcelain veneer will use information from the dentist regarding the final shape, size, and color of the veneer to ensure it blends in with the smile.

Am I a good candidate for porcelain veneers?

The best way to determine candidacy for veneers and other restorative treatments at Broadway Family Dentistry is to book an appointment with one of our dentists, including Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen. Call our Minot, ND area practice at (701) 839-1299 to request a consultation visit with our team and find out if you are a candidate for veneers or other cosmetic restorations available at our facility.

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Learn about dental crowns and bridges

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If you are currently searching online for restorations such as dental crowns and bridges, you may already know that your smile needs some repair. Dental crowns and bridges are common restorations used in dentistry to replace or restore teeth. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, ND are available to educate patients on the best ways to restore their smiles.

Dental crowns

Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen often use dental crowns when a tooth needs an extra layer of protection against damage. When made of materials such as porcelain, they can be fabricated to match the patient’s existing teeth for seamless integration. The crown, also called a cap, covers the visible portions of a tooth above the gumline. It may be placed:

  • After root canal therapy to strengthen the tooth
  • After a filling to maintain natural tooth structure
  • Over an abutment of an implant to replace a single tooth
  • To conceal cosmetic imperfections of a tooth

Dental bridges

The team at Broadway Family Dental describes the dental bridge as a tooth replacement option. It “bridges the gap,” which is how it got its name. Most are made of porcelain and include false teeth called pontics fused to a dental crown on each side. The adjacent teeth are covered with the crowns to allow the pontic (or pontics, if replacing several teeth in a row) to rest above the gumline and fill the gap. Dental bridges are a more permanent option when compared to partial dentures, which are removable and require extra care .However, they are more affordable for patients who might otherwise consider permanent solutions such as dental implants. Working with a dentist to choose the restoration right for you is the first step towards a restored smile!

Contact Broadway Family Dentistry of Minot, ND today to restore your smile

Dental crowns and bridges are popular restorations used by our team of professionals. If you are interested in finding out if you qualify for one or both of these repairs, we welcome you to book a consultation visit with our team. Call (701) 839-1299 to request a consultation with Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen at 1839 South Broadway Street.

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Should I get fluoride treatments at the dental office?

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One of the most effective minerals for preventing tooth decay is that of fluoride. Fluoride is naturally present in many foods, and is added into most city water supplies. It can also be integrated into toothpastes and mouthwashes that patients can utilize each day. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Minot, ND encourage patients to learn more about this amazing mineral and what it can do for their smiles.

What is fluoride?

This mineral is perfect for strengthening the natural tooth enamel. While patients can increase their fluoride through drinking more city water and eating foods that are high in fluoride, others may want to ask their dentist about a specialized fluoride treatment. Fluoride can be applied to the teeth with a topical solution, or may be given as a drop or gel for systemic application. Topical fluoride treatments are done right in the dental office, while patients who may benefit from systemic fluoride will take supplements as directed to strengthen the teeth that have not yet erupted through the gumline.

Who can benefit from fluoride?

Everyone benefits from fluoride, either as a topical treatment done in the dental office or through consumption or supplements. When patients think of fluoride treatments, they wrongly believe that these treatments are just for children. Adults can benefit from fluoride treatments as well to achieve better oral health and wellness.

Can I ask about fluoride?

We strongly encourage patients to ask our dentists questions when they are in for their routine visits. We want patients to be educated on how to care for their smiles. Patients who might be good candidates for fluoride treatments can find out if their dental insurance provides fluoride applications as part of their benefits. This makes it often much more affordable and attainable, even for patients on a tight budget. Patients without dental insurance can work with our front desk to discuss cost.

Call Broadway Family Dentistry today

Minot, ND patients and families interested in learning more about fluoride for stronger, healthier teeth are invited to book an appointment with Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen by calling (701) 839-1299. The office is located at 1839 South Broadway Street and is open to new patients.

What to do about a gummy smile

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A beautiful smile is one that is bright, balanced, and well-aligned. But what if your otherwise perfect smile is being overshadowed by excess gums? Also known as a “gummy smile,” this imbalance can have a negative effect on the appearance of the smile as a whole. In situations such as this, the team at Broadway Family Dentistry of Minot, ND may suggest an aesthetic procedure known as gum recontouring. 

How does gum recontouring work? 

With gum recontouring, patients who have excess gum tissue that makes their teeth appear short or result in an imbalance in gum tissue versus teeth can find a solution! During this procedure, the dentist will remove some of the gum tissue which not only reduces the amount seen when a patient smiles, but helps in lengthening the appearance of the natural teeth instead. This can create the harmony patients desire for achieving a more attractive look to the teeth and gums. 

With gum recontouring, laser recontouring is the most desirable solution. This is because the soft tissue lasers can minimize the amount of bleeding and swelling and ensures faster recovery and healing. The laser light also allows for more precision shaping of the gum tissues around the teeth and allows for patients to look and feel their best sooner following the procedure. 

What can I expect with gum recontouring? 

The procedure is done right in our office under the care and attention of our trained and experienced staff. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen provide sedation if needed, and offer anesthetics to ensure patients are comfortable from start to finish. Patients relax in the treatment chair as we remove gum tissue and restore balance to the teeth and gums for a less “gummy” smile than before. This is a fast, effective, and affordable way to enhance the appearance of the smile and help patients regain the self-confidence they need each and every day! 

Schedule a visit with the team at Broadway Family Dentistry 

If you reside in the Minot, ND area and want to speak with Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen about the benefits of treatments with our team, we welcome you to book a consultation appointment by calling (701) 839-1299. Broadway Family Dentistry is conveniently located at 1839 South Broadway Street and accepts new patients and families in the community and surrounding areas.

Do over-the-counter whitening products work?

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Whitening is one of the most commonly requested aesthetic procedures at the dental office. While there are a wide array of over-the-counter whitening products available to patients today, many do not find that they provide the results they really desire. However, some patients who are looking for minor enhancement may want to consider these as an option. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Broadway Family Dentistry educate patients on the pros and cons of over-the-counter whitening services vs. professional bleaching treatments at the dental office. 

  • Over-the-counter whitening products – for patients with mild discoloration, they will often find the results they need with over-the-counter whitening products. This may include whitening toothpastes, whitening strips, or whitening trays. Patients who need touch-ups may also consider the whitening pens that are available.
  • Professional whitening services – instead of the DIY way, many patients turn to the help of their dentist for professional services. At Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, ND, Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen are excited to offer a variety of aesthetic procedures, including professional bleaching. They provide GLO whitening, laser whitening, and even professional-strength whitening trays and gels for home use. These are all stronger in concentration and can provide same-day results for patients who need a fast and effective way to brighten the smile for a special occasion.

Who is a candidate for whitening? 

The best candidates for teeth whitening are patients with dull or discolored smiles that are free from dental restorations such as porcelain veneers, dental crowns, and bridges. This is due to the fact that whitening products cannot whiten restoration made of porcelain, just natural tooth enamel. Whitening the smile with restorations in place will often require the dentist to remove and replace these restorations to match the newly whitened smile—which also requires patients to maintain their results to keep the smile beautiful! 

Are you interested in whitening your smile? 

Over-the-counter whitening products might not work as effective as professional-grade alternatives can. If you reside in the Minot, ND area and are interested in learning more about whitening the smile, the team at Broadway Family Dentistry can help! Call our office at (701) 839-1299 to request an appointment with Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen.            

How to choose a dentist in Minot, ND

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As a child, you probably went to the same dentist as your siblings and your parents. You likely didn’t have a choice in who worked on your teeth or cleaned your smile. When you’re an adult, you have the ability to make more choices, and now, you can have a say in your dental care provider! Patients of Minot, ND who are either looking to change dental practices or are new to the area and looking for a family dentist may want to take the time to prepare the right questions. It is also a good time to assess local dental providers and make a decision that fits for you.

Below are a few things to think about when choosing a new dentist in or around the community of Minot, ND:

  • Location. You know how they say, “location, location, location?” This phrase doesn’t just apply to real estate, and can also apply to service providers. Finding a dentist that is close to home, school, and work will make sure it is more convenient than ever to visit regularly.
  • Expertise and experience. You want a dentist who has years of experience in providing dental care, and the team at Broadway Family Dentistry is committed to offering dental solutions to patients over the years! Our team has combined experience in preventative and general dentistry options.
  • High praise. Word of mouth is important when it comes to finding a quality dentist that patients already know and love, and reading online reviews is another way to research a dental practice’s track record with others.
  • Financing options. Not everyone has dental insurance, and even then, not all procedures are covered. Making dental work affordable is key for many patients, so finding a dentist that offers financing options and payment plans can be vital for those on a budget who still need quality care.

Are you interested in a quality dental team in the Minot, ND area?

Look no further than Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Broadway Family Dentistry! Located at 1839 South Broadway Street, our professionals are here to assist with a wide range of dental solutions, including general, cosmetic, and restorative care for children and adults. Call the office at (701) 839-1299 to request your initial consultation appointment.    

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Am I a candidate for dental implants?

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The best professional to determine if a patient is a good fit for dental implants is the team at Broadway Family Dentistry. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen encourage patients to schedule an appointment and find out if dental implants are the best option for their unique needs and to restore function, health, and beauty to the smile! 

Dental implants as a surgical solution 

Dental implants require oral surgery to place. These small screw-like posts are implanted into the bone of the jaw, using the jaw as a foundation to hold the restoration. This is what gives dental implants their strength and durability. 

Jawbone requirements 

To ensure that the dental implant procedure is successful, patients will need to have enough jawbone to support the implant when it is placed. This ensures that the process of osseointegration happens, during which the bone grows and wraps around the implant to ensure it is solid within the jaw for proper support. If patients do not have enough jawbone, grafting might be considered. 

Dental health 

It is also important that patients considering dental implants are in good overall health, especially when it comes to their smile. Conditions such as decay and periodontal disease can inhibit the successful placement of dental implants. This is determined with x-rays and a thorough evaluation from our dental team. 

Commitment to care 

A good candidate for dental implants will also be committed to ensuring they take good care of their smile. This includes brushing and flossing as directed, and seeing the dentist regularly to monitor their oral health. Without proper care, bone loss can occur and the implant can fail. 

Schedule a visit with Broadway Family Dentistry 

Our team of professionals, including Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen, are committed to ensuring patients have options available to them for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants continue to be the gold standard in tooth replacement. If you would like to discover more about dental implants and how they are used to restore the smile after tooth loss, call our team today at (701) 839-1299. Our facility is open to new and existing patients and families at 1839 South Broadway Street.