Celebrate With Your Top Dentist!

The results are in! We are incredibly happy to announce that for the 8th year in a row we have been named Top Dentist in the Reader’s Choice Awards 2016.

We would like to thank our amazing patients and The Daily Nonpareil readers for all their support! Without you, we wouldn’t be where we are today. With over 40 years of oral health expertise, the Omni Dental team is proud to be able to provide you and your family with the premium dental care that you deserve. We continuously invest in our training and technology to make sure that we are on the top end of everything. We want to maintain our status as your favorite Iowa dentists for years to come. Keep on flashing those dazzling smiles, Iowa!

If you have any questions about your family’s dental care, contact us.

To Whiten or Not To Whiten: What options are best for you?

How white are your teeth? Many of us would probably answer, “they could be whiter.” Your teeth naturally become darker with age. Your lifestyle can also affect the whiteness of your smile as regular coffee and tea drinkers can attest. It’s also painfully obvious that smoking is detrimental to both the appearance and health of your smile. While certain medications can permanently stain your teeth, most do not. So what can you do for a whiter smile? We’ve all seen products at the grocery store that claim to effectively whiten teeth but how do you know what works for you?

Teeth whitening really depends on the individual. If you’re looking for information on cosmetic dentistry including whitening, schedule your appointment with Omni Dental today. Come to any of our convenient locations and let us educate you on the different options available. Moreover, ask about cosmetic dentistry options that, together with whitening, can bring about your ideal smile.

While professional whitening may seem extreme for someone looking to change their smile only a shade or two whiter, many report that this option brings the most dramatic results in the shortest period of time. Furthermore, if your teeth are severely stained, professional office whitening may be the only option.

Professional whitening is non-evasive and simply requires time. After you have scheduled an appointment at one of our convenient locations, your dentist will apply the whitening formula directly onto your teeth. In order to activate the whitening formula, we may use either special lighting, heat, or a laser. You will then simply allow the formula to work as you rest in one of our comfortable chairs for 30 to 60 minutes.

Often times patients find dramatic results after the first treatment; however, each case is different. Allow us to guide you through your treatment options to better manage your expectations. A lifestyle change, including a change in diet or smoking habits, may be needed in order to sustain the results. Omni Dental typically advises to have several professional whitening appointments to produce maximum results.

Our team at Omni Dental understands that your schedule and lifestyle may not call for professional whitening. If you would like to test out over-the-counter whitening products, consult your dentist for professional advice. Remember that your smile is one of a kind, so what may work for someone else may not work for you.

A good way to test the waters is by using whitening toothpaste and whitening mouthwash. These options are easy to find and even easier to use as part of your regular oral health routine. The difficult part is finding a brand that works for you as many claim to work better than their competitors. You may also find that the results are unsatisfactory even after using them for an extended period of time.

Using whitening strips can also be a good choice for home convenience. While it may be slightly tricky to apply the strips directly onto your teeth at first, it will get easier with each application; however, you typically must apply the strips once a day for a week. Again, price may vary by brand and it will be difficult to know what brand works best without first making the initial investment.

Whitening gels and pastes in plastic trays may be an easier alternative to applying whitening strips. Simply use the recommended amount of whitening gel or paste in the given tray and place the tray over your teeth. These trays are generally one-size-fits-all; as such, they can feel uncomfortable if your teeth and mouth don’t conform to the standard size.

Whether you’re looking to learn more about over-the-counter whitening options or want to schedule an appointment for professional whitening, contact Omni Dental today.

Why Invisalign?

When it comes to altering your smile, there is often a great debate over the benefits of Invisalign vs. braces – and to make your decision easier for you… Omni Dental is here to do all the comparing for you.

Braces:

  • Effectively treats a wide variety of cases, including crowding, spacing, crossbite, overbite and underbite 
  • Straightens your teeth 

Now, let’s take a look at exactly what Invisalign can do for you:

  • Effectively treats a wide variety of cases, including crowding, spacing, crossbite, overbite and underbite 
  • Straightens your teeth     
  • Allows you to eat whatever food you’d like
  • Allows you to remove the device as required
  • Let’s you enjoy virtually invisible teeth straightening
  • Allows you to brush and floss your teeth as normal
  • Made of durable yet smooth and comfortable plastic, which is unlikely to cause discomfort
  • Doesn’t rob you of your time – with appointments only being required every four to six months

With all the benefits of braces, without the nagging discomfort of metal and lack of aesthetic appeal that can often deter many people from getting them, Invisalign is a fantastic option for those wanting to correct the appearance and alignment of their smile with minimal disruption to their daily routine.

Available from 7:50am – 6pm Monday to Thursday, and 7:50am – 2pm Friday, get in touch with us to chat with our friendly, informative and experienced staff!

Contact us today!

   

Bruxism – A Real Kick in the Teeth

Bruxism, also known as the grinding and or clenching of your teeth, is a common yet sincerely frustrating and painful condition. Left untreated, it can also lead to unnecessary further complications such as TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorders) along with pain and discomfort in other areas, causing headaches, facial pain and discomfort when eating or drinking.

There are a variety of causes for Bruxism, and the symptoms experienced can be brought on by anything from bad nutrition and unhealthy sleep habits to overwhelming physical and emotional stress. The severity and duration of Bruxism can vary in each person depending on individual circumstances, but overall… the treatment is usually simple for the vast majority of cases.

Causes of Bruxism may include:

  • Current or anticipated stress. People who experience stress, both physically and emotionally tend to carry that tension to bed causing them to grind, gnash or clench at night
  • Suppressed anger, frustration and aggression
  • Misaligned upper and lower teeth (malocclusion). Although there is no conclusive reason as to why malocclusion may cause Bruxism, doctors have found that it is prevalent among some sufferers
  • Those experiencing depressive or anxiety based disorders are also more likely to suffer Bruxism, and although very uncommon, medications used to treat these conditions can sometimes be an unlikely contributor towards Bruxism
  • Sleep disorders such as insomnia, parasomnia and nightmares / terrors
  • Bruxism can be a result of complications stemming from Huntington’s or Parkinson’s Disease
  • Stimulating substances such as caffeinated drinks / food, alcohol, and drugs including methamphetamine and ecstasy may increase the risk of Bruxism
  • Age; Bruxism is extremely common in children, and typically reduces fully by adolescence

Here are some of the symptoms to look out for:

  • Grinding sounds at night
  • Dull headaches, especially in the morning
  • Tight, tired or painful jaw muscles
  • Worn down, flattened, fractured or chipped teeth
  • Tooth sensitivity towards hot, cold or sweet foods / drinks
  • Anxiety, stress or tension
  • Eating disorders
  • Depression
  • Facial pain
  • Insomnia
  • Earache

So what can you do if you’re experiencing these symptoms?

Figuring out the source of your pain is the first step to resolving it. Bruxism caused by physical and emotional stress is often a case of making a few small yet effective changes to your lifestyle or routine such as:

  • Creating a relaxing night time routine, suggestions include light yoga, a warm bath, or herbal tea. Some people say placing a warm cloth or towel over their jaw helps to reduce grinding and clenching whilst also soothing any existing tension.
  • Reducing your intake of stimulating substances

Depending on the severity of your case, your dentist may give you a mouthguard to wear at night.

Should your Bruxism be caused by something not so easily resolved, or if you think you may already have some dental damage / further complications – please contact us to request an appointment with our friendly, experienced and informative team. During your appointment we will examine you, and discuss the best treatment option, so you leave with a genuine (and painless) smile.

Congratulations Dr. Jones and Dr. Nensel

Omni Dental proudly announces that our very own Dr. Nensel and Dr. Jones have recently been recognized by the prestigious Academy of General Dentistry. We are so proud of our doctors! Dr. Jones was awarded his Masters for his continuing education. This designation is equivalent to completing dental school an additional two more times after receiving your first degree. Similarly, Dr. Nensel has achieved her Fellowship, which is the equivalent of attending dental school once more after already completing it.

We are ecstatic for their tremendous achievements. Omni Dental continues our dedication to providing exceptional oral health care to our community. While we strive to bring you the most cutting-edge techniques, compassion and understanding will always be our hallmarks. We are committed to making you smile!

Once again, join us in congratulating Dr. Jones and Dr. Nensel for their tireless work and honors. 

 

Well done! For outstanding dental service, contact Omni Dental today!

Did You Know?

Did you know we have two microsites dedicated to TMJ and Invisalign inquiries?

Both TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome), and Invisalign are some of our biggest inquiries here at Omni Dental – and as such, we want to ensure that our current and future patients are as well informed as possible on whatever may bring you to see us. It can be difficult to find information on your dental problems that isn’t either full of industry jargon, or just a quick run down of the basic symptoms to look out for. To help keep you informed and updated on the latest information, guidance and resolutions available, we’ve created two separate websites, each specializing on one topic.

If you think you may be suffering from TMJ, or want to know more about the subject, check out our sister site: www.tmj.omnidentalcentre.com

Interested in Invisalign? Head over here to find up to date information, details and solutions available to you: www.invisalign.omnidentalcentre.com

Our staff is always on hand to offer expert opinions, or just to listen to your concerns. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call or drop by our Carter Lake based dental practice to speak to us.

What’s the Secret to Keeping Your Teeth for Life?

First things first – there is no secret. In fact, keeping your teeth for life is much easier than you might expect. The process is simple and easy to follow. For teeth that last a lifetime: brush, floss, rinse, and visit Omni Dental at our Council Bluffs or Carter Lake practice regularly. That’s the secret to healthy teeth for life!

Brush

Brushing your teeth twice a day is essential. Make it a routine to brush once in the morning and once again before bed. If you wish, you can also brush three times a day. We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush with light pressure. When brushing, aim to carefully clean all tooth surfaces. This should take you about two to three minutes each time for a thorough cleaning. For optimal results, use quality toothpaste and replace your toothbrush about every three months.

Floss

Although you may not enjoy flossing, it’s a crucial aspect of a good oral hygiene routine. Incorporate flossing into your daily hygiene regimen by flossing at least once every day. Flossing not only removes food particles that get trapped between your teeth but is also helps to remove bacteria that cannot be seen by the naked eye. It’s important to remove bacteria build-up which eventually turns to plaque or calculus.

Rinse

Who doesn’t want fresh breath? Rinsing with mouthwash not only makes your breath smell minty fresh, but it also works hard to kill bacteria that lingers in your mouth after meals. A good rinse will decrease the likelihood of plaque formation and gum disease. This extra step can go a long way toward having healthy teeth for life.

Keep your appointments

We always recommend that our patients visit us every six months for routine check-ups and professional dental cleanings. Our Omni Dental team works to remove any build-up of plaque to prevent gingivitis and gum disease. During your appointment, your dentist will carefully examine your mouth to identify issues such as cavities, and treat them before they get worse. Ensuring your teeth last for life requires effort on our part, but also from you. Together, we can keep your smile happy and healthy for a lifetime.

To reserve your next appointment, please call Omni Dental in Council Bluffs or Carter Lake at (888)-860-4886.

 

Why Choose Invisalign For Teens

If you’re a teen, or the parent of a teen, who is considering orthodontic correction, Invisalign should be one option to think about! If you haven’t heard of Invisalign before, it is the invisible way to straighten your smile. Invisalign for Teens offers many different benefits that can make aligning your teeth simpler and more flexible compared to traditional metal braces. At Omni Dental, we are proud to be certified Invisalign providers for Kirkland residents!

How Does Invisalign Work?

Like conventional braces, Invisalign corrects a number of common orthodontic issues. This includes underbites, overbites, crossbites, and crooked or misaligned teeth. Omni Dental can provide Invisalign to straighten out your smile! The process uses a series of clear, custom-made aligner trays that will fit perfectly into your mouth. The trays are made of BPA-free plastic that is smooth, comfortable, and designed specifically for your unique orthodontic needs. Every two weeks, you change your set of aligner trays and your teeth will gradually move into place!

Benefits For Teens

As a teen, life is very dynamic and constantly evolving. The last thing you should be worrying about is dealing with uncomfortable metal braces! Thankfully, Invisalign for Teens is a trusted method for teenagers and young adults to straighten their smile with added convenience and flexibility. You can smile for photos and laugh with your friends, all the while feeling confident about your teeth! With Invisalign Teen, you will have the freedom to do the things you love – eating your favorite foods, playing sports and instruments, and just being yourself! The best part is you’ll have a perfectly straight new smile, without anyone knowing that you had braces.

Ready to change your life with a brand new smile? Ask your Carter Lake and Council Bluff dentist today at Omni Dental about getting Invisalign for Teens!

What is gum recession?

 

Gum recession occurs when the gum line recedes to the point where sensitive roots of the teeth are exposed. This leads to increased feelings of sensitivity to cold and sugary foods since the roots are no longer protected by the gums. If left untreated, gum recession can increase the risks of tooth decay and tooth loss. At Omni Dental in Council Bluffs and Carter Lake, we want to help ensure that your gums are at their optimal health.

Causes of Gum Recession

  • Periodontal disease – a serious oral disease arising from poor oral habits
  • Gingivitis – gum disease characterized by bleeding and swollen gums
  • Aging
  • Overly aggressive brushing and/or flossing – brushing hard in a scrubbing fashion will erode gum tissue at the roots of teeth
  • Genetic predisposition to gingival recession – having inherited thin, insufficient gum tissue facilitates gum recession
  • Bruxism – a condition where someone regularly grinds their teeth, usually during sleep
  • Chewing tobacco/smoking – promotes chronically dry mouth and reduced gum health

Periodontal gingivitis can also be the cause of drooping of the gums. This is a different condition in comparison to gum recession. If your dentist diagnoses you with periodontal gingivitis, the recommended solution may be a gingivectomy. A gingivectomy is a process that removes excess gum tissue that has been weakened by bacterial decay. Another option is a gingivoplasty, which reshapes the gums around the teeth. If left untreated, sagging, drooping, and receding gums may be a dangerous enabler of bacteria growth inside of the mouth. Food particles, mucus, and other debris can get caught in the pockets that are left behind. Oral bacteria is responsible for tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and chronic halitosis.

Treatments for Gum Recession

For the benefit of your health, it’s best to get your gums treated immediately if you notice any issues. It’s possible for your dentist to help reverse the effects of gum recession. One recommendation may be to switch from a hard-bristled toothbrush to a soft-bristled toothbrush that will allow your brushing to be more gentle. We may also recommend improving oral hygiene habits, including brushing after meals, rinsing with mouthwash, and getting regular cleanings every six months.

If you think you may be at risk of gum recession or gingivitis, our team of dental professionals at Omni Dental in Council Bluffs and Carter Lake are here to help. Give us a call today at (888) 860-4886 to reserve an appointment.

 

Oral Care Issues for Seniors

 

Oral health is an important and often overlooked component of an older person’s general health and well-being. Omni Dental knows that for many of our older patients, oral health can become an issue when the conditions of aging make it difficult to brush or floss their teeth as effectively as they once did.

Below are 4 common oral health challenges that our older patients encounter:

Dental Caries

It’s not just children who get tooth decay—oral decay is a common disease in people 65 and older.  Research from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research shows that 92% of seniors 65 and older have had cavities in their permanent teeth. The risk for tooth decay increases because many older adults don’t go to the dentist as often as they used to.  As a result, cavities go undetected and untreated for longer than they should.

Difficulty Eating

Gum disease, missing teeth, infection, cavities, or poorly fitting dentures – all can cause difficulty eating and can force seniors to adjust the quality, consistency, and balance of their diet.

Xerostomia

The Oral Cancer Foundation estimate that 20% of elderly people suffer from xerostomia (dry mouth), which means the reduced flow of saliva (saliva plays a crucial role in preventing tooth decay). Common medications that may cause dry mouth are blood pressure medications, decongestants, antihistamines, muscle relaxants, pain pills,  incontinence medications, and antidepressants.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontitis (gum disease) is an infection of the gums and surrounding tissues that hold teeth in place. While gum disease affects people of all ages, it typically becomes worse as people age. In its early stages, gum disease is painless, and most people have no idea that they have it. In more advanced cases, however, gum disease can cause sore gums and pain when chewing.
Scheduling regular appointments at Omni Dental is the key to addressing the above issues – our dental care professionals can provide a combination of education, proactive care, and management to help reduce or eliminate these conditions.

Contact us today and book your appointment!