Pennsylvania Advanced Esthetic & Neuromuscular Dentistry
September 19th, 2011
That depends on who is doing the diagnosing. TMJ has been called the “Great Imposter” because its diverse and wide-ranging symptoms can make it very hard to pin down, especially for some doctors. When you talk to your doctor about your TMJ symptoms, such as headaches, back aches, ringing in the ears, and numbness or tingling in the fingers, your doctor may very well begin by considering a spine problem. Treatment may give temporary relief, but until the root cause is identified, the problems will return.
A traditional dentist may listen to your description of tooth pain and look for problems with the affected tooth or teeth. Your dentist may even recommend basic orthodontic treatment, but traditional orthodontics do not always address the full range of your TMJ.
A neuromuscular dentist, on the other hand, knows what to look for. Like most medical conditions, TMJ can be detected with relative ease if the doctor knows what to look for. Then, with treatment, your TMJ symptoms may be relieved.
If you have gone to a number of doctors for relief of nagging or serious chronic symptoms, but have not gotten relief, you should see a neuromuscular dentist. Neuromuscular dentistry gives you the greatest chance of finding relief.
To learn more about neuromuscular dentistry and the diagnosis of TMJ, please contact Dr. Michael Kun, Lehigh Valley neuromuscular dentist, to schedule a consultation today.
Posted in TMJ | No Comments »
August 10th, 2011
The short answer is: Yes! The longer answer is: If you have been going to a doctor for migraines but haven’t been getting relief, your dentist may be able to help. The full answer depends on the relationship between the trigeminal nerve and migraines.
No one really understands how migraines work, but one of the chief players in many migraines seems to be the trigeminal nerve. Stimuli along the trigeminal nerve are conducted to the brain stem, where they trigger chemical changes that ultimately result in a migraine. The trigeminal nerve controls some of your jaw muscles, some facial muscles, and carries sensation from your face (including pain sensation) to your brain.
As it runs from the brain stem to the face, the trigeminal nerve passes very close to the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to your skull. Most of the time, this causes no problems, but in people who suffer from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), the trigeminal nerve can suffer collateral damage as a result of a misaligned jaw joint. Overdeveloped or poorly aligned jaw muscles can put pressure on the trigeminal nerve, or irritate it with friction as the jaw moves. The result can be facial pain or numbness, and it may trigger migraines.
So if you suffer from migraines and removing most of the traditional triggers (such as stress and foods from the nightshade family), you should see your dentist. He may be able to give you relief from migraines as well as a host of other TMJ symptoms.
To learn more about the relation of migraines and TMJ, please contact neuromuscular dentist Dr. Michael Kun today. Helping patients from across the Lehigh Valley, including Allentown and Bethlehem.
Posted in General Dentistry | No Comments »
August 8th, 2011
The causes and triggers of migraine headaches are poorly understood. If you look at a list of migraine triggers, they may include:
- Hormonal changes in women
- Foods
- Stress
- Bright lights, loud sounds, unusual and unpleasant smells
- Being jet lagged or getting too much or too little sleep
- Physical exertion
- Changes in the weather
- Medications
These changes seem to be mediated by a number of interactions in the brain, such as with the brain stem and the chemical serotonin. Treating migraines is all about identifying and eliminating triggers, or identifying them by eliminating them.
One of the major pathways that trigger migraine headaches is the trigeminal nerve. The trigeminal nerve is one of the major cranial nerves that brings stimuli between the face and the brain stem, and in its pathway passes very close to the temoporomandibular joint which connects the jaw (mandible) and the skull. In temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), the muscles of that support and move the jaw can put pressure or friction on the trigeminal nerve, causing facial pain or numbness, or, in some cases, triggering migraines.
Neuromuscular dentistry can treat TMJ and remove this aggravation of your trigeminal nerve, which may lead to a reduction in the frequency and severity of your migraines.
If you are suffering from migraine headaches despite treatment from your doctor, you should talk to a neuromuscular dentist about TMJ and its potential role in your migraines. If you are looking for an experienced neuromuscular dentist near Allentown and Bethlehem, Michael E. Kun serves the entire Lehigh Valley. Please call or email him today to schedule your consultation.
Posted in Neuromuscular Dentistry | No Comments »
July 31st, 2011
If you are, like us, enjoying Shark Week, you may have learned that sharks, unlike people, do not have a limited supply of teeth. Instead, their teeth are constantly regenerating. Researchers are working to identify the mechanism that allows sharks to generate these new sets of teeth and utilize it to help you regrow lost teeth. The technology is many years from development, but there are several promising avenues of research.
Until we can grow back our teeth, implant dentistry is the best solution for replacing lost teeth. Unlike dentures that are held in your mouth by suction or adhesive and dental bridges that depend on neighboring teeth as anchors, a dental implant functions just like your natural tooth. It has a root that is anchored into your jawbone.
Because dental implants function like your natural teeth, they allow you to eat all your favorite foods again and require only normal oral hygiene. No dentures to clean and no tricky flossing under and around a bridge. Best of all, a dental implant also helps support your gums and stimulates your jawbone so they remain healthy as well.
If you live in Allentown, Bethlehem, or anyplace else in the Lehigh Valley and want to learn more about the benefits of implant dentistry, please contact Dr. Michael Kun today to schedule your consultation.
Posted in implant dentistry, shark week | No Comments »
July 21st, 2011
Many people are considering tooth whitening may wonder if it is safe for their teeth. The answer depends on the type of whitening you are using.
If you are using a whitening toothpaste, you should be careful. Look at the list of ingredients and see whether it includes a significant amount of abrasives like aluminosilicates. Although all toothpastes marketed with the ADA seal of approval are below what is considered the acceptable limit, they nonetheless vary greatly, and people with thin or soft enamel can erode away enough enamel that your teeth may become more vulnerable to damage or decay. Sometimes, thin enamel allows the yellowy dentin inside your teeth to show, which defeats the purpose of a whitening toothpaste. It’s important to talk to your dentist before selecting a whitening toothpaste.
Over-the-counter whitening strips and trays use peroxide to chemically remove stains from your teeth. Although these strips and trays are safe for your enamel, they can irritate your gums and cheeks.
However, dentist-supervised tooth whitening is very safe. During your in-office whitening procedure, the whitening material is carefully painted on your teeth while your gums are protected with a special coating to ensure they do not get irritated by the stronger whitening compound. Even your take-home trays are designed with maximum safety in mind. Custom-made dental trays fit on your teeth and seal in the whitening compound, which both increases its effectiveness and reduces gum irritation.
Many people experience tooth sensitivity after tooth whitening and fear that this is due to loss or damage to their enamel. However, the sensitivity is actually caused by removing stain material that blocks dental tubules that run from the surface of your teeth to the sensitive pulp inside. When this material is removed, your teeth may become more sensitive to heat and cold.
If you live in Lehigh Valley and have more questions about tooth whitening, please contact cosmetic dentist Michael E. Kun.
Posted in Teeth Whitening | No Comments »
June 20th, 2011
How complex is the procedure for placing porcelain veneers?
Placing porcelain veneers on your teeth is a relatively simple process. Porcelain veneers are very thin, and therefore require very little reshaping of the teeth to make room for them. After you have determined that porcelain veneers are the best solution for your cosmetic dentistry goals, Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania area dentist Dr. Michael Kun will prepare your teeth and make a mold from which the veneers will be constructed in an off-site lab. Temporary veneers will keep your teeth protected until the next visit, when the permanent, custom-made veneers are bonded into place.
Are there different kinds of porcelain veneers?
There are a variety of different types of porcelain veneers, with different brand names and slightly different materials. Dr. Kun uses an advanced type of veneer called Micro Advanced Cosmetic (MAC) veneers and Empress Veneers. These veneers are stronger than many other types of porcelain veneers, and can last many years if properly cared for.
How do I know if porcelain veneers are right for me?
Porcelain veneers provide a simple and effective solution for a number of cosmetic dentistry issues including:
- Slight misalignment
- Chips
- Pits in the teeth
- Severe discoloration
- Small gaps
- Cracks
If you wish to correct issues like these, porcelain veneers can be an excellent solution. To determine your overall candidacy for porcelain veneers, it is best to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kun. He can discuss your cosmetic dentistry goals, the condition of your teeth and your overall health to determine the best option to make your smile the best it can be.
To find out more about porcelain veneers and how they can help improve your smile, please contact experienced cosmetic dentist Michael Kun, DMD. Dr. Kun serves the Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania area.
Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry, porcelain veneers | No Comments »
June 7th, 2011
As one of the most versatile cosmetic dentistry options available, porcelain veneers have increased greatly in popularity over the last few years. They can effectively correct a wide range of cosmetic issues, and are relatively easy to place as well as less expensive than many other options.
Advantages of Using Porcelain
The unique qualities of porcelain make it ideal for use in cosmetic dentistry applications. Some of these qualities include:
- Natural translucency
- Becomes extremely strong when bonded to the teeth
- Can be made into thin shells that do not add bulk to the teeth
- Can be color matched to blend with your natural tooth color
The strength and light-reflecting properties of veneers are especially important. These properties mean that porcelain veneers can last many years if you take proper care of them, and that they look very much like the natural surfaces of your non-treated teeth.
Uses of Veneers
Some of the cosmetic dentistry issues for which veneers are a good solution include:
- Discolored teeth that do not respond to tooth whitening
- Chipped, cracked or pitted teeth
- Slight gaps between teeth or minor misalignment
Porcelain veneers can be used for issues that otherwise might require long-term traditional orthodontic treatment, or crowns that require extensive restructuring of the underlying tooth. Dr. Michael Kun can perform extensive smile makeovers with porcelain veneers, providing you with a beautiful smile that does not require the extensive commitment, discomfort or embarrassment of braces or the invasive procedures required for crowns.
Dr. Michael Kun and his cosmetic dentistry staff serve the Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton, Pennsylvania area, as well as the surrounding Lehigh Valley. Please contact Dr. Kun for more information about porcelain veneers, or to schedule a consultation.
Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry, porcelain veneers | No Comments »
May 27th, 2011
Severely misaligned teeth can not only detract from your appearance, but can also lead to long term problems such as tooth grinding, root resorption or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). Correcting misalignment is important to long-term oral health, but traditional treatments such as metal braces may be uncomfortable and unattractive. Invisalign presents another option.
How Invisalign Works
Traditional braces move teeth by means of rubber bands attached to metal pieces affixed to the teeth. The tension created by the rubber bands moves the teeth into their proper position. However, the metal braces can cause discomfort and some people, especially adults, find their appearance to be uncomfortable or embarrassing.
Invisalign provides an option to correct misaligned teeth that is more comfortable, much less visible, and more appealing to adults who are self-conscious about having braces on their teeth. Invisalign uses a series of transparent plastic aligner trays to move teeth into position. Each tray moves the teeth into a slightly different position. After about two weeks, the next tray in the sequence is used, until finally the teeth are in the final, correct position.
Candidacy for Invisalign
Invisalign aligner trays must be kept in the mouth at least twenty-two hours of every day in order to achieve the desired results. A good candidate for Invisalign is willing and able to wear the trays for the required amount of time, and will also be diligent about keeping the trays clean. Some misalignments might be too severe for Invisalign, so it is important to consult with Dr. Kun to be sure Invisalign is right for you.
If you are in the Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton or Lehigh Valley area of Pennsylvania, please contact the office of dentist Michael Kun, DMD, for more information on Invisalign and what it can do to help you.
Posted in Invisalign | No Comments »
May 18th, 2011
Why are dental implants better than traditional dentures?
Dental implants present several distinct advantages over traditional dentures. Dental implants are permanent, and so do not shift in your mouth or present the risk of falling out at an inopportune moment. They also do not need to be removed for cleaning. While dentures only replace the visible portion of your teeth, dental implants replace the tooth root structure. This helps maintain your jawbone in the long term so that the bone does not deteriorate.
Who is a good candidate for implant dentistry?
A good candidate for implant dentistry is missing one or more teeth, is in generally good health, and has a sufficient amount of healthy bone in the jaw to support the implant. The candidate should also have a realistic idea of the implant process, how long it will take, and all the possible risks and complications. A candidate for implant dentistry must be willing and able to take appropriate care of his or her teeth and gums during the implant process.
How long does the implant process take?
The implant process can take a few months to as long as a year, depending upon how the procedure must be performed. If the implants can be placed directly into the jawbone, the process will take a few months as the root portion of the implant heals. If bone grafting or other work is necessary on the jawbone, the process will take longer.
Will dental implants look just like my natural teeth?
Dental implants are carefully constructed and color-matched to ensure they will be almost indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Not only will they look like your natural teeth, but they will perform like your natural teeth when you chew or speak.
For more information about implant dentistry and if you are in the Allentown, Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley or Easton, Pennsylvania area, please contact dentist Michael Kun, DMD.
Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry | No Comments »
April 28th, 2011
Choosing a dentist is an important decision. In order to be sure you will visit your dentist regularly and maintain your dental health, you must be comfortable with him. It is also important to be sure the dentist you choose has experience dealing with any specific problems or issues you might have.
General Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist or Functional Dentist?
One factor to consider when choosing a dentist is whether you wish to see a general dentist or a dentist who performs cosmetic dentistry or neuromuscular dentistry.
Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania area dentist Dr. Michael Kun provides general dentistry care as well as cosmetic dentistry and neuromuscular dentistry. With his special training, he can help with a variety of issues from general dental care to problems with TMD.
Education and Credentials
When choosing a dentist, be sure to check for education and certifications. A dentist with education and experience specific to your needs will be more likely to provide help for any issues you may have. Certifications ensure that the dentist is required to stay up to date with new techniques and treatments.
Education, though, does not guarantee that you will be comfortable with a specific dentist. Visiting the dentist for a basic cleaning appointment or a general dentistry consultation can give you a better idea of how you relate to the dentist and how comfortable you are in his office.
Michael Kun, DMD offers general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry and neuromuscular dentistry to his patients in the Allentown, Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley and Easton, Pennsylvania area. Please contact Dr. Kun’s office to make an appointment or schedule a consultation.
Posted in General Dentistry | No Comments »
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