Children’s Dentistry for the Natick, MA Community!

July 18, 2014

shutterstock_166055237One of the beautiful things about children is that their lives are just beginning. They have a whole world to discover and life to live, and it is important that they get started on the right path as healthily as possible. One aspect that is very important is a child’s smile. When a child’s smile is beautiful and healthy, it establishes a healthy oral routine that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives. Dr. Christina Papageorgiou and Dr. Jennifer Soncini are here to make sure your child’s smile is as healthy as possible, which is why they offer children’s dentistry at their Natick, MA dental office.

When your child comes in for their first appointment, we will be able to evaluate their smiles fully, making sure everything is copasetic. We will inspect every tooth to make sure there are no signs of infection or decay, such as cavities and periodontal issues. We will look at their jaw and their bite, making sure everything is aligned as well as determining the need for orthodontics in the future.

We will also take that opportunity to educate your child on proper brushing and flossing techniques. If we teach your child the proper ways of oral care now, they will be able to carry that knowledge with them throughout their teenage and adult lives. This gives them a better chance at having excellent oral care! We will give your child fluoride treatments and dental sealants during their appointment. Fluoride is a natural mineral that makes teeth stronger, fights of cavities, and attracts other minerals that are conducive to a healthy smile. Dental sealants are thin plastic covers that are painted over your child’s molars. This helps prevent bacteria settling in the grooves of the teeth, reducing the odds of cavities.

If you feel as though your child can benefit from a visit at our office, make an appointment today, and we would love to help your child begin their journey of excellent oral health!

Give us a call to schedule your appointment. Our Natick team is happy to provide you with whatever cosmetic, general, or restorative dentistry needs you may have. We are proud to see patients from Framingham, Wayland, Sudbury, Wellesley, and all surrounding areas.

It’s Not Easy Being Green- It’s Great!

June 16, 2014

shutterstock_185075840A tall, ice cold glass of tea is a wonderful way to cool off in the summer heat. A summer staple, tea of all types has been able to cool us down, quench our thirst, and please our taste buds. From black tea to herbal, from peach to spearmint, the options often are overwhelming, but the end results are always delicious! What you may not know is how green tea is able to give you amazing benefits, both to your smile and your body! This summer, we want to make sure you are fully knowledgeable about what type of tea you are drinking and how it can promote your body’s wellness!

One of the amazing advantages to drinking green tea is the fact that it helps with your brain and your heart. Green tea is full of catechin, which are antioxidant that fight off, and have the ability to prevent, cell damage. Studies have proven that drinking green tea is directly linked to having a larger amount of activity in the working memory part of your brain. Also, drinking green tea has been shown to block the development of plaques that have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

For those with diabetes, green tea helps been the blood sugar level stable! If you are over worked and very stressed, green tea has an amino acid called theanine, something that can have a calming effect on people. For those trying to lose some weight, green tea can help increase your metabolism, helping you burn more fat calories! There are so many amazing advantages to having a cup of delicious green tea, and you should definitely experience it for yourself!

Give us a call to schedule your appointment. Our Natick team is happy to provide you with whatever cosmetic, general, or restorative dentistry needs you may have. We are proud to see patients from Framingham, Wayland, Sudbury, Wellesley, and all surrounding areas.

Cosmetic Dentistry with Dr. Papageorgiou in Natick, MA

May 15, 2014

shutterstock_95709055Having a perfect, beautiful smile is definitely something a lot of people strive for. A flawless row of teeth is a sign of health and vitality, and people go through great lengths to achieve such a goal. Many people consider a smile a first impression, and it is important to make sure you put your best smile forward! Papageorgiou Dental Associates is able to offer an assortment of cosmetic dentistry options, always keeping in mind that her patient’s flawless smile is the goal.

Our dental practice offers teeth whitening as part of our cosmetic dentistry options. We offer in-office whitening using Kör, and take-home whitening using NiteWhite. Both options give you a dazzling, beautiful smile that you can be proud of. We also offer Invisalign, giving you the ability to straighten your teeth seamlessly! Involving a serious of aligners, Invisalign aligners sit nearly invisibly on your teeth, allowing you to straighten your smile without all of the metal you may have been concerned about.

We also provide porcelain veneers to our patients, giving them a smile makeover in such a short amount of time. Able to cover up cracks, misalignments, discoloration, and much more, porcelain veneers make it easy for you to have a smile you cannot wait to show the world!

If you are curious about how our line of cosmetic dentistry options can help improve your smile, make an appointment at our Natick, MA dental office, and we will be more than happy to help!

Give us a call to schedule your appointment. Our Natick team is happy to provide you with whatever cosmetic, general, or restorative dentistry needs you may have. We are proud to see patients from Framingham, Wayland, Sudbury, Wellesley, and all surrounding areas.

Give Your Kids the Advantage of a Healthy Smile with Children’s Dentistry in Natick, MA

March 5, 2014

Shutterstock Children Girl ToothbrushLifelong oral hygiene habits begin with a foundation of early dental care. From the time your son or daughter is between one and two years of age, he or she should begin visiting your local Natick, MA dentist for routine check-ups and cleanings. Early pediatric dentistry helps ensure that your little one’s smile stays happy and healthy for years to come.

Why is Children’s Dentistry So Important?

While you do everything you can at home to maintain your kids’ oral health – including brushing and flossing at night before bed – there are a number of reasons to bring them in for regular dental visits as well. Throughout the childhood years, teeth, gums and jaws are still developing. Our experienced oral care professionals examine your little one’s entire dentition, looking closely for signs of proper growth and problems like tooth decay.

Because we believe that prevention is the best medicine, particularly for little smiles, we may recommend dental sealants to protect against cavities. Optional fluoride treatments help fortify developing enamel, further reducing your child’s potential need for fillings or crowns. Regular cleanings at your dentist’s office supplement all of the brushing, flossing, and rinsing you do at home.

Prevention and Protection for Your Child’s Smile

Whether your child is ready for his or her first visit to the dentist, or you’re simply in need of a routine check-up with an oral health professional you can trust, your Natick children’s dentist is here to help. Contact our office today to reserve your appointment and find out how our gentle, caring approach can make your kids’ next dental visit a pleasant and memorable experience. We happily welcome families from nearby communities in Weston, Framingham, Sherborn, Wellesley, Wayland, Ashland, and the surrounding areas. We look forward to giving your children the consistent, quality dental care they need and deserve.

Understanding the Mouth-Body Connection: Periodontal Therapy in Natick, MA

February 11, 2014

It is estimated that nearly 80 percent of American adults suffer from some form of gum disease, putting them at a higher risk for a variety of potentially life-threatening health problems. At Papageorgiou Dental Associates in Natick, MA, Dr. Christina Papageorgiou performs comprehensive periodontal therapy to help reduce the risk of associated complications before they become even more serious.

Gum Disease & Systemic Health

Though the thought of periodontal disease typically evokes images of bleeding gums and eventual tooth loss, the truth is that this common affliction actually affects the entire body. Bacteria that accumulates around and beneath gingival tissue can seep into the blood stream where it can wreak havoc on other tissues and various organs. When left untreated for any extended period of time, gum disease can contribute to the following health complications in men and women of all ages:

  • Cancer, namely of the blood and pancreas
  • Respiratory illness, including pneumonia and pulmonary hypertension
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Preterm birth – and resulting low birth weight – in mothers with periodontal disease
  • Complications in patients who also have diabetes
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Increased risk of stroke and heart attack

Fortunately, the use of periodontal therapy significantly reduces a patient’s risk of suffering from these and other medical conditions when implemented in a timely manner.

Restore Health & Vitality to Your Smile

If you or someone in your family is affected by any of the common symptoms of gum disease, it’s time to take the first step toward improved oral and overall health with periodontal therapy. Contact our office in Natick, MA to see how Dr. Papageorgiou can help you reclaim your smile today. We proudly serve patients from throughout Natick, as well as from the surrounding communities of Sudbury, Wellesley, Framingham, Wayland and beyond. We look forward to welcoming you to our dental care family!

 

Protect Yourself From the Hidden Dangers of Gum Disease

February 4, 2014

Shutterstock FlossingWhile periodontal disease gets the majority of its reputation for sore, bleeding gums and a greater chance of tooth loss, the fact of the matter is that this common infection affects the entire body in many unexpected ways. When left untreated for an extended period of time, advanced gum disease can contribute to a variety of potentially life-threatening health problems. Only professional periodontal therapy can completely reverse the disease and therefore lower your chances of developing these complications.

The Mouth-Body Connection

When bacteria that has accumulated along the gum line seeps into the blood stream, it can quickly spread throughout the rest of the body. Over time, the infection can begin to affect various other tissues and organs, resulting in health problems that may go undetected for years until symptoms develop. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, some of the most common medical complications associated with untreated periodontal disease include the following:

  • Osteoporosis
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer, particularly of the pancreas and blood
  • Respiratory disease, including pneumonia
  • Complications in patients with diabetes
  • Preterm birth and low birth weight

Fortunately, patients treated with periodontal therapy have been found to be at a lesser risk of developing these problems. This is why it is critical that patients experiencing the symptoms of gum disease seek treatment as soon as possible. Common symptoms of periodontal disease include:

  • Bleeding when you brush and/or floss
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Redness and severe discoloration along the gum line
  • Sensitivity
  • A feeling of soreness in the jaw directly beneath teeth

Contact your local dentists in Natick to find out how periodontal therapy can help keep you protected from serious health problems associated with gum disease. We also happily welcome patients from the surrounding areas of Sherborn, Weston, Wellesley, Framingham, Ashland, Wayland and beyond.

Understanding Bruxism and How It Affects You

January 9, 2014


Do you often wake up with a headache or a sore, throbbing jaw? For many men and women, this is a common occurrence. The act of excessively clenching the jaw or grinding the teeth during sleep is called bruxism and, when left untreated, can result in damage to the teeth and jaw.

What Causes Bruxism?

Most individuals who suffer from sleep bruxism are unaware of their condition. Typically, a partner, roommate or sibling is the first to notice the tell-tale gnashing sound while the affected person is asleep. In extreme cases, teeth may even crack or break free of the gum over time due to the immense pressure involved.

Causes of bruxism range from psychological stress and sleep disorders to certain medications and daytime consumption of caffeine. Approximately 86 percent of bruxism instances throughout the night occur during periods of light sleep.

There is evidence that people who smoke, consume medications containing amphetamine or have sleep apnea are more likely suffer from bruxism. All of these things are known to disrupt sleep patterns.

Treatment of Sleep Bruxism

Dr. Papageorgiou and her team have extensive experience in the management of this condition. We offer simple, effective treatments for bruxism that fit your lifestyle.

If your bruxism has caused damage to the teeth or bones of the jaw, reconstruction may be needed to restore the beauty and function of your smile. Dr. Papageorgiou may prescribe an occlusal splint, or dental guard, that you wear at night to prevent further grinding. Most patients report almost immediate relief with this method of treatment.

Contact your local Natik dentist today to find out how our caring, experienced team can help you manage your bruxism with a nighttime mouth guard, custom-fit to your teeth. We also happily serve patients from Wayland, Wellesley, Framingham, Ashland, Weston, Sherborn and the surrounding areas.

Protect Little Pearly Whites with Children’s Dentistry Services in Natick, MA

October 10, 2013

It’s important to you that your child has access to the best education, the best nutrition, and the best environment available – but what about their dental care? Little smiles that are still developing need a special touch in order to ensure that they stay full and healthy for years to come; that’s why children’s dentistry services are so crucial. Your local dentist in Natick, MA believes strongly in the importance of treating and educating your child about oral hygiene, and after experiencing our fun and educational dental visits, your little ones will be sure to leave with a smile on their face!

Little Teeth, Big Benefits

We recommend that you first start bringing your children to see us around the age of three. Then, we can begin them on a gentle routine of monitoring the development of their teeth, teaching them effective brushing techniques, and helping to prevent decay. Our staff is very friendly, and we’ll always consider your loved one’s comfort to be a top priority!

We also offer several treatments that can better benefit children and keep their smiles healthy. For instance, little teeth are often much more susceptible to cavities, especially ones in hard-to-reach places. Placing dental sealants on their permanent back teeth once they’ve come in can add a valuable extra layer of protection against sweets and other decay-causing agents. We also offer fluoride treatments to help strengthen enamel! Avoiding dental complications with preventive care is important at any age, but it’s especially beneficial for young children to experience early on.

Contact your local Natick dentist today to schedule an appointment for your son or daughter today! Our skilled staff is committed to providing dental care that’s both thorough and warm to smiles of all shapes and sizes. Our practice welcomes patients from the surrounding cities of Framingham, Wellesley, Wayland, Weston, Ashland, Sherborn, and beyond.

Cosmetic Dentistry Can Transform Your Teeth for the Better

August 9, 2013

While maintaining optimal oral health over the years is crucial, many dental patients also find themselves interested in achieving a smile that’s visually beautiful as well. This is understandable – after all, a truly polished look can be a valuable asset in one’s everyday life, from impressing your boss at work to catching the eye of someone at the bar. However, very few people in the world are born with naturally perfect teeth. Thankfully, you don’t need to be; cosmetic dentistry can give you the stunning results you’ve been looking for!

Unlike general dentistry and restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry services don’t primarily focus on the health of your teeth and gums; instead, they help to improve their appearance, correctly imperfections such as cracks, chips, gaps, and even stains. While available services vary from practice to practice, your local dentist in Natick, MA offers the following cosmetic dentistry treatments:

  • Invisalign
  • Teeth Whitening
  • Porcelain Crowns

When pursuing cosmetic dentistry, you’ll first come in for a thorough evaluation with your local dentist. They will carefully inspect your teeth and gums in order to ensure that your oral health is stable before moving forward with an in-depth discussion about your smile goals and the treatments that could best fit your unique situation. Before you know it, you’ll have a beautiful new smile to share with the world!

Contact your local dentist in Natick, MA to learn more about cosmetic dentistry and the countless benefits it can have for your smile and your self-confidence, or if you’re ready to go ahead and schedule an appointment. Our team believes in providing warm, effective care that leaves teeth happier and healthier than ever before. In addition to Natick, we also serve the areas of Framingham, Wellesley, Wayland, Weston, Ashland, Sherborn, and beyond.

Keep Yourself Safe from Oral Cancer with the Help of Your Local Dentist

July 31, 2013

smokingWhile you may be used to hearing about common oral health problems such as cavities and gum disease at your local dentist’s office, one serious problem that may be a little more unfamiliar is oral cancer. Just because it’s not well-known, though, doesn’t mean it’s anything to sneeze at – in fact, tens of thousands of people every year are diagnosed with oral cancer, and nearly half of those patients won’t go on to survive more than five years. Even worse is that while a majority of cases are caused by heavy smoking and/or drinking, a whopping 25% of instances of oral cancer occur in people who participate in no known risk factors.

While this all probably sounds very scary, the good news is that oral cancer can be treated successfully if caught early on – that’s why attending routine dental check-ups is so important! Thankfully, your local dentist in Natick, MA can help keep your smile safe from this deadly disease with thorough inspections. But are there any tell-tale signs you can notice at home? Common symptoms include:

  • Red, white, or pink-colored areas on the mouth or tongue
  • A lump, crust, or thick area inside the mouth
  • Pain or tenderness in the lips or mouth
  • A sore in the mouth that bleeds excessively and doesn’t show signs of healing

Of course, it’s important to remember that symptoms aren’t always noticeable to an untrained eye; that’s why your local dentist should your first line of defense against oral cancer. It’s strongly recommended that you attend a routine appointment every six months. Your dentist will be sure to let you know if they find any suspicious-looking areas that may require additional testing to determine whether they’re cancerous or not.

Contact your local dentist in Natick, MA today to schedule an appointment! We’re dedicated to providing patients with comprehensive, compassionate care that puts comfort first. We also serve the areas of Framingham, Wellesley, Wayland, Weston, Ashland, Sherborn, and beyond!

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