Tag: fluoride

Choosing a Composite Filling For Your Smile

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A cavity in your tooth can cause many problems if left untreated. Not only can a cavity become painful, it can also cause bad breath, and can lead to the loss of your tooth. Depending on where the tooth is located, you may have the option of using a composite filling to address your cavity. If you have a cavity that is readily visible by other people, you can talk to Dr. [doctor_name] about a composite filling.

A composite filling is actually a resin of plastic and powdered glass. The advantage to using a composite filling is that the dentist can color it to match the surface of the rest of your tooth, making it far less obvious to others.

After your dentist has removed the decayed tooth material, [heshe] will mix a resin that has been colored to match your tooth. The process of placing a composite filling will take longer than other fillings, since the tooth needs to be kept dry during the process. Additionally, composite fillings are placed in layers to give them added strength, and each of those layers need to be cured with a special light.

Composite fillings work best for teeth that do not receive a great deal of pressure from chewing, and are usually reserved for use on the front teeth. All fillings need to be replaced eventually; but, with the proper care a composite filling can last over five years. You will need to brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, floss once a day, and see your dentist for your regular cleanings and exams.

If you are in need of a filling and would like to see if a composite filling will work for you, we will be happy to see you. To make an appointment at [practice_name] in [city], [state], call [phone] today.

How to Brush Your Smile with Style

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Caring for your smile is crucial to good oral health. You want to protect your teeth and gums from tooth decay and gum disease. At [practice_name], we have some tips to share with our patients in [city], [state], and the surrounding communities, on how to properly brush those pearly whites!

 Your Toothbrush

First, you want to make sure you brush your teeth every single day, twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Using medium or firm strength bristles can damage gum tissue and tooth enamel. Now, whether or not you choose a manual toothbrush or a powered one, is your choice. The goal is to make tooth brushing an event you do faithfully, and whichever one makes you want to brush, do that. Just be sure that the size and shape of your toothbrush fits into your mouth comfortably, letting you reach all your teeth. Aim for replacing your toothbrush as the bristles wear down and become worn, this usually means 3-4 months. Worn bristles can’t effectively clean tooth surfaces and in between teeth and gums.

Brushing Correctly

Once you have your toothbrush, you want to aim for brushing for two minutes each time, using an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste. Generally speaking, if your toothpaste carries the ADA Seal, it will have fluoride in it to protect your tooth enamel. Why do you want to use ADA approved products? Because ADA-approved products have been proven to be both effective and safe to use. Any claims made on the packaging have been proven to be true so you know that the product works exactly as it claims to do.

To begin brushing your teeth, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. You will want to gently brush back and forth in short movements. Clean the outside of your teeth, the inside areas, and the tops or chewing surfaces. For the inside of your front teeth, hold the brush vertically and use up-and-down movements.

Caring for Your Toothbrush

Once you finish brushing your pearly whites, rinse your toothbrush thoroughly to remove food particles and toothpaste residue. Let your toothbrush air out between use, so be sure to store it uncovered and upright, and avoid letting it touch another toothbrush to prevent contamination.

Lastly, don’t forget to floss between teeth and under the gumline to remove plaque and food particles that your toothbrush can’t clean, limit snacking between meals, and come in for professional cleanings.

Dr. [doctor_name] and the rest of our dental team in [city], [state], are happy to help you with all of your oral care needs. Call us today at [phone] if you have any questions or need to schedule your next checkup!