Douglas Hamill DDS

Though the teeth, the tongue, and the mouth make up only a small part of the body, an issue with any of them can influence your health. A recent study found a definitive connection between oral health disease and heart disease and stroke. According to the results of the study, the plaque that builds up around the teeth or due to gingivitis can release bacteria into the bloodstream. This bacteria in turn travels to the heart and can cause a blockage. This is why regular dental treatment is crucial. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/solutions-to-oral-problems/

We always address immediate problems and provide recommendations for maintaining long-term oral health, so minor issues today don’t turn into larger issues in the future. As a dentist, I believe that good dental care begins with open communication, so your first visit will help us get acquainted with one another, and give me the opportunity to learn about your goals and desires for your Buffalo dental treatment. If you have questions about our Buffalo dental treatment options..., I always encourage patients to make a list ahead of time so you don’t forget anything on the day of your appointment. Include any concerns you might have or any oral health problems you have been experiencing. My patients are my top priority, and I am happy to take as much time as needed to ensure I’ve addressed all your concerns. I look forward to meeting you at your first visit! https://www.amherst-dentist.com/preparing-for-your-first-d/

Composite dental fillings are commonly made of durable substances such as ceramic, glass ionomer, plastic, or a mixture of synthetic resin and glass or quartz, of which the resin option is the most frequently used. If this is your first time receiving fillings, you may want to know more about the process. Here are some commonly asked questions about composite dental fillings from our patients. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/questions-about-composite-/

When you go to the office for professional teeth whitening, you can expect to start with a basic dental cleaning where plaque is removed, and your teeth are left free of build-up. During this prep process, the dentist will do an over-all inspection to make sure that you have good oral health. The next part of the process involves exposing the teeth with a cheek retractor and then putting a protectant sealant on the gums. A solution of hydrogen peroxide is put on the teeth ...and then left for around half-an-hour this part of the process is repeated at least once. Some dentists choose to employ lights that will enhance the process. After your teeth have been cleaned of the solution, you will immediately be able to see a change in your smile. Teeth will continue to grow whiter as time progresses, giving you the chance to experience a pearly smile. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/professional-teeth-whiteni/

When considering receiving a dental implant, it is important to consider all of the dental implant benefits before deciding. Thankfully for you, there are plenty. One of the biggest dental implant benefits is that your oral health will significantly increase. This is because bacteria tend to harbor on decaying teeth or in empty spaces in the mouth. Since a dental implant doesn’t use other teeth around it to support it, it is free-standing and allows you to clean fully and as... you normally would. A second benefit of dental implants is that they will improve the look and appearance, allowing you to have a higher level of self-confidence. Many people are often self-conscious about their missing or decaying teeth, so using a dental implant will allow you to show off your smile more. Statistically, smiling increases the way people feel about themselves, so show off your new pearls! Lastly, dental implants could help you eat normally. Decaying or missing teeth can lead to oral pain when eating, but with these faux teeth, you won’t have to worry about this issue. There are no nerve endings open on a dental implant, so you won’t feel any pain or discomfort. Finally enjoy the foods you’ve been missing with a dental implant! https://www.amherst-dentist.com/dental-implant-benefits/

Otherwise known as a dental crown, dental caps help provide vital stability to your tooth when in a more sensitive state. This is one of the more common procedures involved in dentistry because of its ability to help in many different situations. A dental cap is an artificial, hollow tooth that fits directly on top of the damaged tooth. They are permanent and cemented into place with use of a resin-like substance directly on the original tooth itself. This is why they are cal...led crowns or caps, because they are worn on the exposed section of tooth. Most of the time, dental caps are made of porcelain to ensure color match and strength. There are many situations in which a dental cap will be used, therefore it is important to recognize aspects of these in your oral situation to help yourself determine if you may benefit from receiving one. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/dental-caps/

There is a long list of foods that are not the best for your teeth. One of the most common being citrus fruit. While citrus fruits are a great source of nutrients and vitamin c and have other benefits, they do not benefit your oral health. Lemon juice and grapefruit are extremely acidic which means they can break down tooth enamel over periods of time. A study from 2008 which soaked teeth in multiple citrus juices showed lemon and grapefruit did the most damage while orange j...uice caused the least. Chewy and hard candies are also at the top of the list for one of the worse foods for your oral health. Usually, the stickier the candy the worse it is for your teeth. Certain chewy candies such as caramels, jujuy fruits, and taffy tend to stick to your teeth for an extended period which allow bacteria into our mouth to feast on the leftover sugar. Hard candies don’t have the same effect as chewy candies in terms of sticking to your teeth, but they have their own disadvantage, when they slowly dissolve for many minutes at a time this gives bacteria more time to develop harmful acids. Many flavored candies are flavored with citric acids. Hard candies can also chip your teeth which brushing, and flossing cannot attend to. An item many may not suspect to be bad for your teeth is pickles. Pickles are made with vinegar which is an acid. The vinegar is what gives pickles their salty, sour taste and what also makes them a danger to tooth enamel. A study done in 2004 looked at the eating habits of some teenagers, out of all the solid foods they consumed pickles were linked to tooth wear. If you eat them more than once a day the odds of wear increase by 85%. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/best-and-worst-foods-for-y/

Darkening in the teeth is often caused by imbibing liquids such as tea, wine, and coffee, though the general process of aging can also play a role. Morning breath is usually caused by plaque on the teeth, around the gums, and on the tongue. To have a better chance at stopping morning breath in its tracks, before you go to bed, you should brush your teeth, floss, and try to clean your tongue with your toothbrush. Numerous factors such as trauma, vigorous brushing, smoking, and consumption of spicy foods can contribute to the development of canker sores. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/common-oral-health-problems/

We’re really glad you feel like we provided you with a five star experience. We really enjoyed working with you. We understand that writing a review can sometimes be intimidating. Below are questions you can answer to make writing your online review quick and easy. What were your biggest concerns before coming in for your very first consultation? How do feel about the dental services you received at our office?... Would you recommend Dr. Douglas Hamill to others? https://www.amherst-dentist.com/client-dental-reviews/

Preventing cavities is simple, but it requires a lot of commitment. Cavities can be halted through basic home care: brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, and reducing your intake of sugar. Regular visits to your dentist, including teeth cleanings every three to six months, are also beneficial. If you follow all these instructions, you should get fewer cavities. Foods with high sugar content are the most damaging to your dental health. In order for plaque to build up or a cavity to develop, sugar must be present in the mouth. You should not only brush and floss after you have sugar but also limit your consumption of sugar in the first place. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/cavity-prevention/

If your dental health is in need of restoration, you may be wondering what exactly can be done to treat your teeth. If there is erosion and decay, there are measures you can take to prevent the teeth from getting any worse. You will want to see a dentist to talk about tooth bonding also known as dental bonding. Dental bonding is one of the simplest forms of tooth restoration there are. So much so that it typically doesn’t even require anesthesia, unless of course you are having a cavity filled. It can also typically be accomplished in a single trip to the dentist, so you won’t have to make multiple appointments to restore your smile. Keep reading to learn more about tooth bonding and how it can help you. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/tooth-bonding/

Most fillings are made now from composite, synthetic resin. There are many companies that manufacture this material, and due to its popularity, cost efficiency, and versatility, we use composite resin as a filling material in all our dental procedures. There has been much debate about the safety and usefulness of mercury amalgam fillings, another trendy option. There is no scientific consensus on the matter, but nevertheless, our office has not used amalgam mercury filling in over 10 years. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/cavity-fillings-in-buffalo/

Seeing blood when you brush your teeth is often a signal that something is wrong with your gums and that you have a buildup of plaque. Dentists recommend brushing and flossing twice a day, and it is never too late to start. If regular brushing and flossing do not seem to help reduce or eliminate the bleeding in your gums, you should make an appointment with your local dentist. Notify your dentist that your gums are bleeding and that you might need a deep cleaning or a scaling to correct the issue. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/conditions-that-cause-gum-/

One of the most vital components of your well-being is your oral hygiene. Daily care of your teeth and gums is essential in preventing diseases and chronic conditions such as gingivitis and cavities. Brushing and flossing in the morning and the evening are important, but your responsibility to your dental health does not stop there; regular visits to your local Buffalo dentist will allow you to both brighten your smile and thwart the buildup of plaque. Experienced Buffalo den...tist Douglas Hamill has served the Western New York community for almost 20 years, and is committed to helping patients maintain and improve their oral health. In addition to teeth whitening and related cosmetic procedures, our Buffalo dental office also offers targeted, individualized care to patients who need additional help with safeguarding their teeth and healing their gums. Contemporary studies have suggested a link between tooth and gum disease and overall health, with infections in the roots of teeth having the potential to enter the bloodstream and cause cardiac issues. If you are in the market for a teeth cleaning or you need dental work performed, we provide a range of comprehensive and affordable services for all our clients. Contact our experienced Buffalo dentist today for a free consultation. Let our family take care of yours. Our office is conveniently located in WIlliamsville, NY. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/ See more

Charcoal can be causing enamel damage in two ways. Charcoal comes in two varieties. There is non-activated charcoal and activated charcoal. With the non-activated charcoal, you have to worry about the fact that it is toxic. Having a toxic substance in your body doesn’t seem like a great option for your health in general. Most of these whitening products have activated charcoal. The issue with this is that activated charcoal is abrasive. This can act like sandpaper and wear down your enamel. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/youre-causing-enamel-damage/

Gum disease can set in when your gums start reacting to plaque buildup on the surface of the teeth. When gum disease emerges, you can expect your gums to become red and swollen, and they may begin to bleed easily. If this is not corrected, gum disease can lead to periodontitis, which is when the bone below or above the teeth starts to be affected. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/oral-disease-issues/

Our practice has served the Buffalo area for almost 20 years, and we are committed to helping all our patients to maintain and improve their oral health. We’ve created our dental blog to provide you with trusted knowledge and insights into your most frequently asked dental questions. Call us today at (716) 638-2522 to schedule an appointment. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/buffalo-dental-blog/

A dental bridge utilizes the teeth on either side of a missing tooth to serve as the anchors for bridges, which are essentially groups of crowns all cast together. A dental bridge (also called a pontic) is made up of two or more crowns that support the teeth between a gap. A dental bridge can be supported by a dental implant or your natural teeth depending how much bone structure and decay there is. A dental bridge can be made from a variety of materials including gold, silver, platinum or more. Most often, patients request their dental bridge to be made out of porcelain so that it bears a closer resemblance to their natural teeth. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/what-is-a-dental-bridge/

Though you may be committed to your dental health, brushing your teeth too hard can in fact result in gingival recession, or receding gums. You must take care when you brush to not scrub back and forth too hard, and make sure that you use a soft toothbrush. Another common cause of gingival recession is grinding. If you grind your teeth in your sleep or while you are awake, the gums can recede. There are options available to fix problems such as grinding, and your dentist will be able to provide proper guidance. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/bleeding-receding-gums/

Usually, the biggest challenge patients have with dental implants is the expense. Dental implants are often more expensive than a simple bridge is, but they also last longer and have improved function. Our office offers our patients payment plans for dental implants, which can be adjusted based on financial need. More and more insurances are starting to cover dental implants, and we expect the cost of implants to decrease in the coming years. This month, we are offering a promotion for anyone interested in dental implants. To offset part of the dental treatment costs, we are offering 10% off our portion of the dental implant work (the crown and abutment). To take advantage of our dental implant special, click here. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/dental-treatment-costs/

It is imperative for adults to schedule teeth cleanings with their local dentists at least twice each year. As important as dental care during childhood and adolescence may be, daily maintenance of oral hygiene is the only barrier preventing infection and disease, the incidence of which rises steadily as we get older. Aging teeth slowly lose much of their enamel, which weakens the teeth against plaque and bacteria, allowing cavities to form far more easily. Brushing and flos...sing morning and night will help to hinder tooth and gum disease from taking hold, but it is through direct attention from a dental health professional that any problems and conditions can be stopped in their tracks. Schedule your adult dentistry consultation with our experienced Buffalo dentist today! We serve Amherst, Williamsville, and the greater Western New York region. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/adult-dentistry/ See more

Preventing cavities is actually quite easy, but it requires a lot of commitment. Cavities can be halted through basic home care: brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, and reducing your intake of sugar. Regular visits to your dentist, including teeth cleanings every three to six months, are also beneficial. If you follow all these instructions, you should get fewer cavities. Foods with high sugar content are the most damaging to your dental health. In order for plaque to build ...up or a cavity to develop, sugar must be present in the mouth. You should not only brush and floss after you have sugar but also limit your consumption of sugar in the first place. We always recommend patient schedule regular dental appointments, at least every 6 months for a comprehensive oral exam. This will help your dentist identify any potential issues before they are irreversible. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/preventing-cavities/

Originally from the Eggerstville area, while attending Nichols High School Dr. Hamill developed long lasting skills and traits to help prepare for his future in dentistry. After high school he went to undergraduate studies at the University of Vermont, known as a national research university. Douglas Hamill went on to receive his degree in Pre-Dental Studies. The next few years brought him back to Western New York for his graduate studies. He attended the University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine and subsequently graduated from there in 1983. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/douglas-hamill-dds/

If you are looking into getting porcelain veneers in Buffalo, you probably have questions about the procedure, the costs, and what you can expect. Porcelain veneers are a great choice for those looking to enhance their smile with a long lasting and low invasive treatment. Porcelain veneers can correct or hide flaws, chips, discoloration or other imperfections in your teeth. If you are interested in regaining your confidence and enhancing your smile, porcelain veneers may be right for you. Keep reading to learn more about veneers. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/porcelain-veneers-in-buffa/

Before your first dental appointment, as you fill out a health history, you can relax, have a cup of coffee, and watch television. During your cleaning, you can continue to relax, and I will check in with you once your procedure has finished. We accept most dental insurances. We will fill out the forms for you and submit them on your behalf, and you will pay the balance. If you have dental insurance, we do not charge up front; we bill the insurance company and collect the copay afterwards. We will work with you to find a payment plan that fits your budget. We also offer CareCredit. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/first-dental-appointment-n/

Our office enlists the top oral surgeons in the Buffalo area to place the implants, and then I place the post and crown on the base of the implants. The bottom part of an implant must be screwed into the mandible or the maxilla, which are the bones of the jaw and the roof of the mouth. This process may sound unpleasant and painful, but it is necessary to allow the implant to remain permanently in place. We use an anesthetic to numb our patients, so there is no pain that occu...rs during the operation. The surgeon is the most experienced at placing the implant, and the material used at the implant’s base will easily and directly bond to the bone. Once the dental implant is placed, there is a period of roughly three months during which the implant integrates into the maxilla or the mandible. Then, we can perform the restorative part of the dental treatment, which involves the installation of the false tooth. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/dental-implant-considerati/

Try as we might, there is only so much that we can do to keep our teeth white. Enamel is the hard, whitish, translucent substance that coats our teeth and prevents decay from setting in, but as we age, enamel naturally starts to gradually wear away. As enamel disappears, the yellow dentin inside the teeth becomes more visible, making the teeth appear more golden than ivory. Diet can also play a role in discoloration; beverages such as beer, coffee, red wine, soda pop, and te...a contain substances such as acids, chromogens, and tannins, all of which adhere to and corrode enamel. Tobacco use, whether through smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco, exposes the teeth to nicotine and tar, two major culprits in dental stains. Certain medications, such as antihistamines, chemotherapy treatment, and tetracyclines, can discolor teeth, and even blunt trauma can result in thickening of dentin, creating a yellowish appearance to a tooth. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/teeth-white/

Our office recommends that children have their first visit to a dentist around the age of three. Behavior is a key factor; if a child will sit still at the age of two, he or she can see a dentist then. We also recommend that parents informally examine their children’s mouths and look for potential issues such as broken teeth or dark spots. If any dental problems appear, parents should contact a pediatric dentist immediately. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/pediatric-dentistry-facts/

A fixed dental bridge is a bridge that is immovable; it is held in place using cement or screws, and only a dentist can remove this type of bridge. A cantilever bridge is a structure in which the false tooth is anchored to only one neighboring tooth. Another type of bridge that can be used is a resin-bonded bridge. These are not as strong as fixed and cantilever bridges, but they are both less expensive and not permanent. Unlike the two aforementioned bridges, which entail the filing of the teeth adjacent to the empty space in order to make room for the structure to be installed, resin-bonded bridges are put in place by inserting a false tooth with metal wings into the space. Then, your dentist will use resin to bond the wings to the adjacent teeth. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/dental-bridges-faqs/

Our office provided dental care to the Buffalo Jills for over five years. In addition, when I graduated from dental school, I received a recommendation to join a dentistry practice in Syracuse. I worked at this practice for a decade, and I also taught locally for eight years. I eventually returned to my hometown of Buffalo, where I have provided dental care to the community for the past 17 years. Looking for a fantastic dentist? Contact our experienced dentist near Buffalo, Douglas Hamill DDS to schedule a consultation. He has over 25 years of experience in dentistry and prides himself on providing affordable dental care in a professional environment utilizing the latest in dental technology. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/unique-aspects-of-our-dent/

Deciduous teeth, more commonly known as baby teeth, may only last for a few years before they fall out, but they require close monitoring in order to make sure that they erupt (grow in) appropriately and remain strong until the permanent teeth have developed. Children often experience more difficulty in dealing with the pain and irritation that come with cavities and periodontal disease, so dental screenings and tooth cleanings twice a year can save children from dealing with the consequences of dental issues. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/pediatric-dentistry-in-buf/

If you feel that you need dentures, the first thing is to schedule a checkup with your dentist. If all your teeth are significantly infected with periodontal disease or extensive decay, you may be a strong candidate for dentures. However, teeth can be saved, and we prefer to try to save teeth before we consider replacing them. We are happy to announce our office has invested in the latest technology Sirona XG cone beam ct to provide comprehensive diagnostics and a real-time panoramic view of your mouth. This allows us to create even more accurate treatment plans and deliver high-quality images at the lowest possible dose. https://www.amherst-dentist.com/dentures-in-buffalo/