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Few dental procedures attract misconceptions like root canal therapy. If you've ever searched, "Is root canal treatment painful?", you've probably encountered some outdated, unnecessarily alarming information. In reality, modern root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain, not cause it.

At Kennedy Dental, Dr. Jamar A. Anderson uses advanced techniques and patient-focused care to make root canal treatment in Bellevue, NE, ...

When you hear the words “dental sealants,” you probably think about little kids who are prone to tooth decay and need an additional layer of protection on their teeth. But did you know that adults with deep grooves in their teeth or who are at high risk for cavities may also benefit from dental sealants?

It’s true; dental sealants can be ...

Healthy smiles need attention at every stage of life. Regular exams help children grow with strong teeth. Adults stay ahead of developing issues. And seniors, meanwhile, protect comfort and function. If you’re searching for comprehensive dental exams in Bellevue, NE, family-focused preventive care offers convenience and continuity of care. Seeing one trusted dental office for everyone in the household can ...

Dental fillings are durable and can last for a decade or more with healthy habits. In this blog, I offer tips and practical advice to extend the lifespan of your dental fillings in Bellevue, NE.  

How to Care for Dental Fillings

Brush and Floss Correctly

Proper brushing and flossing techniques for dental fillings include spending at least two minutes, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, ...

If you suffer from jaw pain, chipped teeth, morning headaches, or a bite that feels “off,” your body may be signaling the need for extra protection against grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism. A custom occlusal appliance can reduce strain on your teeth and temporomandibular joint (TMJ; the “hinge” of the jaw) while helping prevent long-term damage.

Understanding when ...

Tooth decay is a common dental issue; in fact, research shows that nearly 90% of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 have at least one cavity. Because tooth decay is so widespread, it’s essential to know what you can do to avoid it and preserve your natural teeth.

So, if you’re wondering how often to see a ...

Dental implants are a reliable, long-term option for replacing missing teeth, but like any medical procedure, they are not completely risk-free. Understanding why dental implants fail early and how to reduce those risks can help you protect your investment and oral health.

Why Can Dental Implants Fail Early?

Early implant failure typically occurs within the first few months after placement, often before ...

As the year winds down, it’s natural to reflect and take stock of what’s important. That makes this the perfect time to assess your oral health and give your smile the attention it deserves. 

Most insurance plans reset on January 1st, so why not make the most of your coverage now? Scheduling your next dental cleaning before year-end helps you avoid ...

Teeth whitening results can last for several months or even a few years, depending on your habits. So, if you’re wondering “how long does teeth whitening last” or “how to maintain teeth whitening,” the answers are variable.

To maintain your results longer, we recommend:

• Avoiding tooth-staining foods, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and bright sauces
• Brushing and flossing at least twice daily.
• Seeing ...

Invisalign has transformed millions of smiles worldwide using innovative clear aligner technology. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign uses clear aligner trays to move teeth into alignment gradually. If you have crooked, overlapping, or twisted teeth, Invisalign may be a viable treatment for your smile. 

Many patients wonder about the cost of Invisalign, but it varies based on the patient and ...

Your teeth do more than help you chew. They also play a vital role in your overall comfort and well-being. For some patients, habits such as teeth grinding or clenching can create significant stress on the teeth and jaw joints. That’s where occlusal appliances in Bellevue come in.

What Exactly Are Occlusal Appliances?

Custom occlusal appliances in Bellevue, NE, fit over the ...

Pain is your body’s warning sign. It’s a way for your internal alarm system to signal: hey, we need help! Having said that, no one wants to get a root canal. They have a reputation for being extremely painful. However, the reason this procedure has acquired such a fearsome reputation is that many people who need a root canal come ...

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Do I need a dental crown?”, you’re not alone. At Kennedy Dental, Bellevue dentist Dr. Jamar A. Anderson and our skilled, caring team help patients make informed decisions to restore and protect their smiles with long-lasting, custom-made dental crowns.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a durable “cap,” commonly made from porcelain, metal, or ...

There's something special and empowering about a healthy, bright smile. Not only does it convey confidence and approachability, but it also reflects a person's overall health, according to the Oral Health Foundation. A great smile can only be achieved and maintained with the help of ...

Bellevue patients choose dental implants because they want a lasting and hassle-free solution to tooth loss. They want to brush, floss, and visit the dentist as usual without added steps or products to buy. They want a solution that is so similar to their natural teeth that they may forget which tooth is the implant.

Of course, many Bellevue patients know ...

You're flipping through your calendar, trying to remember your family’s last dental checkup. Was it six months ago? Eight months? Between work, school activities, and everything else on your plate, keeping track of dental appointments for the entire family can feel hopeless.

At Kennedy Dental, we understand. Here's your straightforward guide to dental checkup intervals that work for busy Bellevue families.

What ...

Invisalign clear braces provide patients with fantastic results, convenient removability, and incredible comfort. Still, to get the most out of your Invisalign treatment, you must follow the guidelines laid out by your dentist and their skilled team. At Kennedy Dental, we also have our own tips to offer on how to make the most of your Invisalign treatment!

Tips for ...

Choosing the right doctor and dentist for your family is crucial to your body wellness and your oral health—and it’s important to remember that good oral health contributes to whole-body wellness.

At Kennedy Dental, we provide quality dentistry for patients of all ages, and we stay on top of the latest advances and study findings across various age groups. Our ...

Good oral hygiene isn’t just about a bright, radiant smile. It is about protecting your oral and overall health. For residents of Bellevue, NE, spotting the early signs of poor dental care can help prevent more serious issues down the line.

At Kennedy Dental, Dr. Jamar A. Anderson and our experienced team—including the best dental hygienist in Bellevue, NE—are here to ...

So, you've successfully undergone a root canal treatment and saved an infected tooth! Great news, right? Many essential treatments still require some time for proper healing before resuming regular everyday habits. If you wonder how long it takes for a root canal treatment to heal, our team at Kennedy Dental takes the proper measures to set our patients up for success ...

Cavities are among the most common dental issues. Fortunately, with attention and timely care, they are often little more than a nuisance. Of course, neglect even the smallest cavity for long enough, and you’ll eventually deal with pain, inconvenience, and undue expense.

In modern dentistry, cavities are easy to treat with durable, natural-looking fillings. At Kennedy Dental, Dr. Jamar A. Anderson ...

Dental implants are considered the gold standard in tooth replacement for several reasons, which presents a financial investment. However, the benefits that dental implants offer typically far outweigh the cost for most patients. Some of the advantages of choosing dental implants in Bellevue, NE to replace missing teeth are:

• The closest thing to a natural tooth as far as look, ...

Keeping your smile healthy starts with good daily habits, but regular dental visits in Bellevue, NE, play an essential role, too. Brushing and flossing at home are important, but professional checkups and cleanings allow dentists to detect early signs of trouble and provide personalized care. 

Routine visits keep your teeth looking and feeling their best while helping prevent more serious dental ...

Are you new to dental implants? Are you considering dental implants but want to know more about their upkeep and lifespan? This blog is for you.

Maximize the Lifespan of Dental Implants in Bellevue, NE

Learning how to care for dental implants can help preserve them for decades or even a lifetime. Fortunately, dental implant maintenance tips reveal that care ...

Functionally and aesthetically, orthodontics is a crucial element of oral health care. For patients in Bellevue, NE, in need of orthodontic treatment, another question,  “Invisalign® vs. traditional braces?” is a vital one.

Each option, while highly effective at guiding teeth into alignment, presents certain benefits and drawbacks. Understanding these pros and cons will help you choose the best way to restore ...

How far is too far? When it comes to reversing the effects of gum disease, it depends. Advanced periodontal (gum) disease is challenging to reverse completely. If left untreated, periodontal disease can have serious repercussions, including tooth loss and bone damage.

The good news for patients suffering from advanced gum disease is that modern surgical and restorative advanced periodontal disease ...

The daily grind got you down? Your teeth can relate!

Teeth grinding, or “bruxism," is a common problem that can wreak havoc on your natural teeth and, especially, cosmetic dental work. In fact, bruxism can be particularly problematic for the form, function, and lifespans of cosmetic restorations like veneers, crowns, and bonding.

Understanding how teeth grinding affects cosmetic dental work is ...

Traveling with Invisalign® is safe and easy if you follow a few practical guidelines. In this blog, we explore Invisalign: how it works and how to travel successfully with your clear aligners.

Your Invisalign dentist in Bellevue, NE, recommends a few practical tips to see you through your traveling vacation.

Tips for Traveling with Invisalign Clear Aligners

Traveling with Invisalign is ...

Invisalign® in Bellevue, NE, is a revolutionary orthodontic system that uses clear aligners to deliver beautiful results. It can correct a wide range of issues, including the crossbite.

Let’s explore bite misalignment, including the crossbite, and how Invisalign can help.

About Bite Misalignment

Bite misalignment is not always noticeable, but it can harm your jaw joints and tooth integrity.

Bite misalignment may be ...

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a progressive condition that damages a person’s gum tissue and can threaten the bone structures supporting their teeth. Gum disease begins with “plaque,” a bacterial film that develops in the mouth, in between and on the surfaces of the teeth and along the gumline.

Plaque (and, as a result, gum disease) can ...

If you're missing your teeth, you’re probably missing your favorite foods and social activities. You may avoid going out and enjoying life when you don’t feel confident about your smile. Dentures are one of the best ways to replace teeth and make you look forward to smiling again. However, if your dentures don’t fit properly, you may need to talk ...

When your teeth aren’t as white or bright as you’d like, you might consider teeth whitening options. Although there are many over-the-counter whitening options, maybe you’ve heard about using apple cider vinegar as a natural teeth-whitening alternative. Keep reading to learn whether this common household item can whiten your teeth safely and effectively.

Whitening Your Teeth with Apple Cider Vinegar

Before using ...

Tooth loss significantly impacts daily life. It affects confidence, quality of life, and dental health. The good news is that dental implants in Bellevue, NE, restore function and aesthetics to your smile. 

Dental implants are the gold standard in tooth replacement for several reasons. Here's what you should know. 

#1 Dental Implants Replace Your Tooth and Root

Implants are the only tooth ...

Although tooth extraction happens at your dentist’s office, how you care for the extraction site when you get home is critical to the healing process. The food you eat after having a tooth pulled can help your mouth heal more quickly and avoid dislodging the blood clot, which can cause a dry socket to form.

So, what are the best foods ...

Dental extractions are straightforward dental procedures your Bellevue dentist performs regularly. You may require an extraction if you have severe tooth decay, tooth crowding, or an impacted wisdom tooth. Although your dentist wants to help you keep your natural teeth, dental extractions are sometimes the best way to maintain oral health.

After a tooth extraction, following your dentist’s recommendations is essential ...

When you’re looking for a dentist in Bellevue, NE, you might search for “dentist on Kennedy” if you live near John F. Kennedy Drive. Fortunately, Kennedy Dental can offer you a wide range of dental services, including dental crowns. If you need a dental crown but have questions about whether they need special care, you’ve come to the right place. ...

If your teeth need to be straightened, you might not want to wear traditional braces because of the metal brackets and wires. However, did you know that there are other options available? With Invisalign in Bellevue, NE, you can achieve a beautiful smile with nearly invisible clear aligners. However, once you get your clear aligners, how do ...

Some expecting mothers forego dental care during pregnancy. Typically, they concentrate on other areas of wellness, including healthy weight gain and nutrition. However, poor oral health and lack of dental care can impact pregnancy, and not for the better.

At Kennedy Dental, we encourage soon-to-be mothers to continue with their dental checkups and teeth cleanings at our dentist's office in ...

Anyone who has experienced tinnitus symptoms knows how annoying they can be. Defined as a persistent ringing sound in your ears, tinnitus is estimated to impact anywhere from 10 to 25% of American adults, although children can also suffer from this condition.

Because this condition’s cause can be elusive, many sufferers cast a wide net when looking for relief. ...

Invisalign is a popular non-invasive solution for teenagers and adults looking to straighten their teeth without the time, discomfort, and aesthetics of traditional braces. Before committing to the procedure, patients must ensure that they take proper care of their teeth after using Invisalign in order to preserve its corrective effects. Your dentist in Bellvue, NE, can recommend the best retainer ...

Teeth whitening is safe when performed or overseen by a dental professional like our team at Kennedy Dental. Though whitening kits line the shelves of countless drugstores, only professional teeth whitening can ensure the effective and long-lasting results you seek for your smile. Kennedy Dental offers various teeth whitening options to give your pearly whites the brightening boost it ...

Periodontal (gum) disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults over age 30. Not to mention that gum disease can contribute to non-dental related health concerns like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Periodontal treatment in Bellevue, NE, can help you combat gum disease, keep it under control, and protect your overall health and well-being. 

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum ...

Our dentists may recommend tooth extraction in Bellevue, NE, for various reasons. And if you have a tooth pulled, it’s essential to follow your dentist’s extraction aftercare instructions, which may include:

• Not chewing on the site of the extracted tooth for a few days
• Not eating anything hot until the anesthesia wears off to avoid burns
• Not drinking through a straw or ...

TMJ is an abbreviation for temporomandibular joint, the sliding joint that connects your lower jaw to your lower skull. You can chew, speak, and yawn comfortably when this joint functions correctly. However, when something goes wrong, it can be painful and debilitating.

We often use the term TMJ to refer to disorders of this joint.

Symptoms and Causes of TMJ

Common symptoms ...

Not only do clear aligners work, but they work incredibly well! Unlike traditional metal braces that are glued or bonded onto your teeth, clear aligners are removable and virtually invisible. They’re made with a strong plastic that gently moves your teeth into their proper position. And because there's no brackets and wires, they’re a lot more comfortable. Kennedy Dental offers ...

Dental crowns are a crucial part of modern dentistry because they play many significant roles. Tooth crowns in Bellevue, NE, are used often in our dental practice, and in ways you may not have considered.

What Is a Dental Crown and What Is the Process?

Crowning a tooth is sometimes called capping, meaning we cover a treated tooth to the gumline ...

Finding health care providers you can trust with your well-being has never been more critical, and your general dentist is no exception. If you're in good health, you may visit your general dentist more often each year than your primary physician.

What do general dentistry services include? Great question! The answer is they provide a wide range of dental services ...

Tooth loss impacts millions of Americans, but today’s innovative solutions mean restoring your smile in a way that looks natural. Modern tooth replacement also considers the function of your teeth.

With dental bridges or dental implants in Bellevue, NE, you’ll smile confidently and be able to chew your food with ease.

What Are Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants?

A dental bridge ...

The American Dental Association and your dentists in Bellevue, NE, recommend twice-yearly checkups and teeth cleanings for patients with healthy smiles. This schedule helps ensure their continued oral health by lowering cavity and gum disease risks.

At Kennedy Dental, we always make time during these appointments to address your concerns and answer your questions. If you’re unsure what ...

Brush twice a day. We've all heard this recommendation uttered in a dozen ways and a dozen places. It's the 'part of a balanced breakfast' repetition within toothpaste, toothbrush, and dental rinse commercials. You've also probably heard it from your dentist, your hygienist, and every other person at the dental office if you were to ask. It's an undebatable truth ...

Several issues can cause tooth sensitivity. And in some cases, a culprit is never found. However, your dentist in Bellevue, NE can help.

Let’s explore some common causes of tooth sensitivity.

6 Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

#1 Plaque Buildup

Plaque, especially root-level, is a common cause of tooth sensitivity. Therefore, we recommend professional teeth cleaning in Bellevue, NE to eliminate stubborn plaque.

#2 ...

If you have tooth decay, we rely on dental fillings to aid in treatment. However, in severe cases, when a cavity is large, your general dentist in Bellevue, NE may depend instead on dental crowns to help stabilize and save the decayed tooth.

For this reason, timely intervention is essential. You want your dentist to fill your tooth before the ...

We are all likely to want whiter teeth, especially when special occasions are in the near future. Our smiles should be one of our best qualities when a million pictures are snapped on all sides. And when it comes to teeth whitening, you have two overall options: over-the-counter products you’d buy at the local store or professional teeth whitening ...

Teeth grinding and clenching is a harmful and common dental habit known as bruxism. Unresolved bruxism can result in dental damage, worn teeth, migraines, jaw joint pain, and several other symptoms. 

Bruxism is often connected to temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), but that is not always true. A patient can have bruxism without TMJ and vice versa. 

TMJ and bruxism can be painful ...

When it's time for the dentist to replace your dental crown, the last thing you should do is put this treatment off. Ignoring the problem can cause more pain and permanent damage to your jaw bone, gums, and teeth. The diagnosis and following treatment plan can only be made correctly by a dentist. These warning signs are often indicators ...

If you’ve had a tooth pulled, for example, you may be wondering, “what can I eat after a tooth extraction?”

Maybe you’ve had a root canal, and the area is slightly tender. In these cases, what are the best foods for you?

In either case, your dentist in Bellevue, NE recommends a soft food diet but will provide more specific guidelines ...

At Kennedy Dental, our implant dentists in Bellevue, NE provide quality tooth replacements for our patients. Of course, we offer other tooth replacement options, but dental implants are the preferred choice for most dentists because there are many advantages.

Let’s examine four things you need to know about dental implants in Bellevue, NE.

#1 Dental Implants Are Similar to Natural ...

At Kennedy Dental, we want area patients and families to have access to quality dental care, which is why we treat patients of all ages and offer the services people need to maintain optimal oral health.

As part of our commitment to patients and families, we also accept various insurance plans, are always happy to bill out-of-network, and offer the ...

Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is common among adults in the United States. Gum disease is even seen among people who think they are taking great care of their teeth. So if you believe you may have gum disease, it is nothing to be embarrassed about, and you are definitely not alone. 

However, gum disease is not something ...

For us, family dentistry looks like high-quality dental care for patients of all ages. At Kennedy Dental, our team enjoys welcoming individuals and families near Omaha, and we have experience working across all age groups.

Preventive Dental Exams & Cleanings

Dental exams and teeth cleanings—also referred to as preventive dentistry—lay the groundwork for healthy teeth and gums. Like the American ...

A dental emergency is typically unexpected. You wake up with a toothache that worsens throughout the day. Maybe you notice gum swelling and irritation.

While there are all types of dental emergencies—from unfortunate trauma to an impacted wisdom tooth—the most common are deep decay and root infections. The good news is that these issues are preventable with regular visits to our ...