A good oral care routine benefits you in more ways than one. However, learning this important task as a child can solidify the habit for years to come. Teaching your child good oral hygiene habits is crucial to their oral health for the rest of their life. Learn more about teaching your child the ins and outs of dental hygiene with Dr. S. Craig Taylor and Dr. Micah Shaw at Taylor Made Smiles in Monroe, GA.

When should my child begin seeing their dentist? 
Most children should see their dentist when their first tooth grows in or by the time they reach their first birthday. Depending on the child, they may need to see the dentist more or less, but most children at average risk of gum disease and tooth decay should have twice-yearly dental appointments and cleanings. Starting these examinations at an early age helps build rapport between your child and their dentist, eliminating dental anxiety and creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere your child can look forward to.

How should my child care for their teeth? 
Before your child’s teeth begin coming in, wipe their gums twice daily with a damp cloth. When you see their first tooth, begin brushing it twice a day. When the teeth begin erupting more rapidly and growing closer together, begin flossing between them at least once daily. Implementing this important oral hygiene routine early in life can help your child keep their teeth and oral tissues healthy throughout their entire life.

Making Brushing Fun in Monroe, GA
Children are notoriously picky. However, making their oral care routine fun can help them enjoy and look forward to it. Use a singing toothbrush or sing a fun song for the duration of brushing time to help your child get into the habit of brushing their teeth for at least two minutes. Creating a game or brushing together with mom or dad can also help your child enjoy their oral care routine and understand its importance.

For more information on oral hygiene, please contact Dr. Taylor and Dr. Shaw at Taylor Made Smiles in Monroe, GA. Call (770) 267-4404 to schedule your child’s appointment with their dentist today!

Dental crowns are a great way to restore the function or appearance of teeth for patients of all ages. Crowns can improve the teeth in many ways and with the help of our Monroe, GA, dentists, Dr. Craig Taylor and Dr. Micah Shaw, patients can see the results almost instantly with no inconvenience.

How Do Crowns Help Patients?

Crowns are great for protecting the teeth. For patients with chips or cracks, they keep the tooth from further deteriorating. Same-day crowns at Taylor Made Smiles helps to protect these fragile teeth and prevent any future breakage. For teeth that are already broken, a crown restores the ability to chew normally without fear of cracking. The crown itself covers the tooth completely, meaning it strengthens weak teeth. Crowns are also helpful for those with a large filling that a dentist fears may come loose or dislodged in the future.

Crowns can also improve the appearance of teeth. They can change the color, length and shape of a tooth. While teeth whitening is effective for mild discoloration, for more severe cases, crowns are more preferable. Crowns are also great when one wants to make their teeth look more uniform, which is especially great for crooked teeth.

How Same-Day Crowns Helps Dental Patients in Monroe

Same Day Crowns offer a natural-looking cosmetic dentistry option. They are durable and because of their porcelain material, look natural. Dr. Taylor and Dr. Shaw can perform a thorough dental examination to identify dental issues in your mouth. From this diagnosis, they can offer insight if crowns or bridges will benefit your oral health situation.

Are you ready to get your smile back? If you’re ready to find out more about what same-day crowns can do for you and your teeth, call Taylor Made Smiles in Monroe, GA, at (770) 267-4404 today.

Dental implants are responsible for saving the smiles of millions of Americans. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID) now estimates that 500,000 new implants are placed each year. Restorative dental implants are particularly popular with patients who have missing teeth and don't want the discomfort that comes with wearing dentures. Learn more about this valuable cosmetic treatment, which is available at the family dentist office of Taylor Made Smiles in Monroe, GA.

Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants provide patients with a tooth replacement option that is permanent, reliable and long-lasting. Here are a few reasons why patients are interested in tooth implantation surgery:

• Smiling, eating and talking is much more comfortable when wearing permanent implants.
• The crown on an implant can be designed to match the other teeth in color, size and shape.
• Implants are non-removable so there is no need to take them out at night for cleaning or soaking. Just brush normally.
• No one except your Monroe family dentist will ever know that you have a dental implant.

The Process of Getting Restorative Dental Implants in Monroe
Restorative dentistry is aimed at restoring your smile to its original appearance and function. Dental implants are now a common choice of dentists and patients for achieving this goal when there's a missing tooth. A small titanium “screw” is carefully placed inside of the bone tissue. It will combine with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration after a few months. When needed, new bone is grafted into the jaw to ensure a secure hold. 

Are They Right for You?
If you have any of the following issues, restorative dental implants may be right for you.

• One or more missing teeth.
• Keep in mind that you must also have healthy gums and bone tissue for dental implants.

Call Dr. Taylor for Implants
Consider restorative dental implants if you want to improve your smile. Call Taylor Made Smiles in Monroe, GA at (770) 267-4404 today to schedule an appointment with a family dentist.

Patients who have missing teeth or major tooth and gum problems often have questions about dental implants. Implants are the modern solution for replacing teeth and are now often preferred over other solutions like dentures and bridges. Here are a few of the most common frequently asked questions about dental implants, answered. Having more knowledge of this dental treatment may inspire you to take action and call your Monroe dentist to see if you’re a candidate for this procedure.

How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are designed to serve the same purpose as the root of a tooth. They are small titanium devices that resemble screws that are inserted into the bone tissue below the gumline. When the implant heals into the bone, which may take several months, an abutment and permanent crown are placed on the top. With a porcelain or ceramic crown, the implanted tooth is indistinguishable from your other teeth.

Why Are Dental Implants the Best Solution?
The main reason why dental implants are the ideal solution is that they are permanent. Once they’re installed, they’re no different than any of your other teeth in terms of function and appearance. They also help keep the bone tissue healthy and strong. When you get dentures or bridges, the bone tissue can degrade over time. 

Who Can Get Dental Implants?
Only patients who have generally good dental health can get dental implants. Viable bone tissue is needed to ensure that the implants will stay rooted. That’s why it’s important to see a dentist for a tooth implant as early as possible. In some cases, a bone grafting procedure can help improve a patient’s chances of having a dental implant integrate successfully.

How Long Will Dental Implants Last?
For patients of a certain age, a dental implant has a good chance of lasting for a lifetime. The crown part of the implant can last for up to 15 years before it may need to be replaced. Seeing your dentist at least two times every year for professional cleanings and becoming meticulous about at-home dental care will ensure that the implant (and your other teeth) stays strong and healthy.
 

Contact your Monroe Dentist

Dental implantation is a straightforward and effective procedure that can help improve your dental health and the appearance of your smile. Call your Monroe dentist to schedule an appointment.

Welcome to the Blog of S. Craig Taylor, DMD

Whether you are an existing patient or searching for a dentist in the Monroe area, we're excited you are here. With the dental industry advancing, we recognize the importance of keeping our patients and visitors up to date with all of the new and exciting things taking place in our practice.

As we move forward with our blog, we hope to promote dental awareness as a vital part of your healthy lifestyle. Here you will find a variety of articles and topics including dental news, advancements in dental technology and treatment, practical dental health advice and updates from S. Craig Taylor, DMD and his staff.

We hope you find our blog to be helpful, engaging and informational to ensure your best dental health.

As always, feel free to contact us with any dental questions or concerns.