Do you know The benefits of dental check-ups far outweigh any minor inconveniences caused while booking an appointment ? It will help you decide the best course of action to take with your oral care.

Why we suggest getting a checkup every 6 months?

It’s because regular dental visits are very important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. In between these examinations, it’s important that you work to keep our teeth and gums clean and healthy.

Putting off regular checkups, or refusing to go to the dentist at all, often leads to complications, pain, and expenses that could have easily been avoided. For example, easily treatable dental issues such as decay and cavities when left unchecked can affect other teeth, cause gum problems or lead to tooth extraction.

What does dental check up include?

Our team will assess the health of your teeth and gums by:

• Examining the gums
• Looking for signs of gum disease
• Checking for loose teeth
• Examining your tongue
• Checking your bite
• Looking for visual evidence of tooth decay
• Checking for broken teeth
• Checking for damaged fillings
• Looking for changes in the gums covering teeth
• Evaluating any dental appliance you have
• Checking the contact between your teeth
• Taking X-rays -These allow the dentist to see if the gums and teeth are still healthy.

Signs you may need Dental Check-up Immediately:

1. Tooth Pain
2. Annoying and Persistent Canker Sores
3. Strong tooth sensitivity to Hot and Cold
4. Swollen Gums and frequently bleeding gums
5. White spots on teeth
6. Constant dry mouth
7. Chronic Headaches
8. Changes in the Mouth/Tongue color

Call us now and Book an appointment if you observe any such sign or symptom.

Fluoride is a natural mineral that builds strong teeth and prevents cavities. Fluoride supports healthy tooth enamel and fights the bacteria that harm teeth and gums.

Fluoride is especially helpful if you’re at high risk of developing dental caries, or cavities.

What happens during a professional fluoride treatment?

Dentists provide professional fluoride treatments in the form of a highly concentrated rinse, foam, gel, or varnish. The treatment may be applied with a swab, brush, tray, or mouthwash.

These treatments have much more fluoride than what’s in your water or toothpaste. They only take a few minutes to apply. You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after the treatment so the fluoride can fully absorb.

Always give your dentist your full health history so they can choose the right treatments for you.

Can fluoride treatments reverse tooth decay?

Fluoride treatments can indeed reverse early tooth decay.

A tooth’s outer layer of enamel either acquires more or loses some minerals every day. When the plaque acid eats away at the layer, this leads to a loss of minerals or demineralization. Too much demineralization can lead to tooth decay. Fluoride helps the teeth remineralize, which means it helps repair early decay and become stronger.

Fluoride treatments in children under the age of six means the mineral becomes incorporated into the development of their permanent teeth. As a result, their adult teeth grow stronger and more resilient. Children who have fluoride treatments have teeth that are less vulnerable to decay.

How much fluoride do you need?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a professional fluoride treatment at your dentist’s office every 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on your oral health. If you’re at high risk for cavities, your dentist may also prescribe a special fluoride rinse or gel to use regularly at home.

What are sealants?

Sealants are a safe and painless way of protecting your teeth from tooth decay. A sealant is a protective plastic coating, which is applied to the biting surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant forms a hard shield that keeps food and bacteria from getting into the tiny grooves in the teeth and causing decay.

Which teeth should be sealed?

Sealants are only applied to the back teeth – the molars and premolars. These are the teeth that have ‘pits’ (small hollows) and ‘fissures’ (grooves) on their biting surfaces. Your dental team will tell you which teeth should be sealed after they have examined them, and checked whether the fissures are deep enough for sealing to help. Some teeth naturally have deep grooves which will need to be sealed; others have shallow ones which will not need sealing.

What is involved?

The process is usually quick and straightforward, taking only a few minutes for each tooth. The tooth is thoroughly cleaned, prepared with a special solution, and dried. The liquid sealant is then applied and allowed to set hard – usually by shining a bright light onto it.

Will I feel it?

No, it is totally pain free, and the teeth do not feel any different afterwards.

How long do pit and fissure sealants last?

Sealants usually last for many years, but our dental team will want to check them regularly to make sure that the seal is still intact. They can wear over time, and sometimes weneed to add or replace some sealant to be sure that no decay can start underneath it.

How do pit and fissure sealants work?

The sealant forms a smooth, protective barrier by covering all the little grooves and dips in the surface of the tooth. Dental decay easily starts in these grooves if they are not sealed.

When should this be done?

Sealants are often applied as soon as the first permanent teeth start to come through. This is usually between 6 and 7 years of age. The rest are usually sealed as soon as they appear which can be any time between 11 and 14 years of age.

Do I still have to clean my teeth?

Yes. It is still very important to do this. The smooth, sealed surface is now much easier to keep clean and healthy with normal brushing. Using a fluoride toothpaste, last thing at night and at least one other time during the day, will help to protect your teeth. Pit and fissure sealing reduces tooth decay and the number of fillings you might need.

Who do I ask about the treatment?

If you would like to know more about the treatment, ask our dental team. We  will tell you if fissure sealing will help your teeth, and if it is the right time to do it.

Among the easiest and least expensive of cosmetic dental procedures,  composite bonding can repair chipped or cracked teeth, close gaps, change the shape of teeth, or be used as a cosmetic alternative to silver amalgam fillings

Composite fillings procedure

Unless there are special circumstances, the process of getting a composite filling is fairly straightforward and can be finished in one visit.

1. We may start by selecting the shade of composite to use in your filling at the beginning of your visit.
2. You may or may not require a shot of a numbing agent for local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area.
3. We will drill into your tooth enamel and remove the decayed part of your tooth.
4. We’ll clean and dry the area and prepare the tooth. With more extensive damage, this might entail some tooth shaving.
5. The dentist will etch and bond the tooth.
6. We ’ll begin layering the composite material into the hole in your tooth and will use a light to cure the composite filling and get it to set..
7. We will shape and contour the tooth, then polish it.
8. We will check your bite to make sure you’re comfortable with the restoration.

Afterward, you might have a little short-lived sensitivity to heat and cold, but it should go away pretty quickly.

A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that is above the gumline and can be seen in the mouth. You will receive a local anesthetic, which numbs the area around your tooth so you’ll feel only pressure, not pain, during the procedure.These teeth can typically be removed easily by loosening the tooth with a lifter or elevator and pulled out with forceps. This is a quick process, and the healing time is usually pretty fast.

Pain following extraction

Although different people heal at different speeds, but you’ll most likely have tenderness and discomfort in the area of the extraction for a 1–3 days.

You may experience tightness and stiffness to your jaw and joint because of keeping your mouth open during the procedure.

Achieving healthy teeth takes a lifetime of care. Even if you’ve been told that you have nice teeth, it’s crucial to take the right steps every day to take care of them and prevent problems. This involves getting the right oral care products, as well as being mindful of your daily habits.

1. Don’t go to bed without brushing your teeth

It’s no secret that the general recommendation is to brush at least twice a day. Still, many of us continue to neglect brushing our teeth at night. But brushing before bed gets rid of the germs and plaque that accumulate throughout the day.

2. Brush properly

The way you brush is equally important — in fact, doing a poor job of brushing your teeth is almost as bad as not brushing at all. Take your time, moving the toothbrush in gentle, circular motions to remove plaque. Unremoved plaque can harden, leading to calculus buildup and gingivitis (early gum disease).

3. Don’t neglect your tongue

Plaque can also build up on your tongue. Not only can this lead to bad mouth odor, but it can lead to other oral health problems. Gently brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth.

4. Use a fluoride toothpaste

When it comes to toothpaste, there are more important elements to look for than whitening power and flavors. No matter which version you choose, make sure it contains fluoride.

While fluoride has come under scrutiny by those worried about how it impacts other areas of health, this substance remains a mainstay in oral health. This is because fluoride is a leading defense against tooth decay. It works by fighting germs that can lead to decay, as well as providing a protective barrier for your teeth.

5. Treat flossing as important as brushing

Many who brush regularly neglect to floss. Flossing is not just for getting little pieces of food or broccoli that may be getting stuck in between your teeth, as Jonathan Schwartz, DDS. points out. “It’s really a way to stimulate the gums, reduce plaque, and help lower inflammation in the area.”

Flossing once a day is usually enough to reap these benefits

6. Don’t let flossing difficulties stop you

Flossing can be difficult, especially for young children and older adults with arthritis. Rather than give up, look for tools that can help you floss your teeth. Visit us to learn flossing

7. Consider mouthwash

Advertisements make mouthwash seem necessary for good oral health, but many people skip them because they don’t know how they work. mouthwash helps in three ways: It reduces the amount of acid in the mouth, cleans hard-to-brush areas in and around the gums, and re-mineralizes the teeth.

Ask us for specific mouthwash recommendations. Certain brands are best for children, and those with sensitive teeth. Prescription mouthwash is also available.

8. Drink more water

Water continues to be the best beverage for your overall health — including oral health. Also, as a rule of thumb, drink water after every meal. This can help wash out some of the negative effects of sticky and acidic foods and beverages in between brushes.

9. Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables

Ready-to-eat foods are convenient, but perhaps not so much when it comes to your teeth. Eating fresh, crunchy produce not only contains more healthy fiber, but it’s also the best choice for your teeth. “we recommend parents to get their kids on harder-to-eat and chew foods at a younger age,So try to avoid the overly mushy processed stuff, stop cutting things into tiny pieces, and get those jaws working!”

10. Limit sugary and acidic foods

Ultimately, sugar converts into acid in the mouth, which can then erode the enamel of your teeth. These acids are what lead to cavities. Acidic fruits, teas, and coffee can also wear down tooth enamel. While you don’t necessarily have to avoid such foods altogether, it doesn’t hurt to be mindful.

11. See your dentist at least twice a year

Your own everyday habits are crucial to your overall oral health. Still, even the most dutiful brushers and flossers need to see a dentist regularly. At minimum, you should see your dentist for cleanings and checkups twice a year. Not only can a dentist remove calculus and look for cavities, but they will also be able to spot potential issues and offer treatment solutions.

The Proper Way to Brush

The teeth should be brushed at least twice a day; ideally in the morning and before bed.  The perfect toothbrush is small in size with soft, rounded-end bristles and no more than three months old.  The head of the brush needs to be small enough to access all areas of the mouth, and the bristles should be soft enough so as not to cause undue damage to the gum tissue.  The American Dental Association (ADA) has given electric toothbrushes their seal of approval; stating that those with rotating or oscillating heads are more effective than other toothbrushes.

Here is a basic guide to proper brushing:

1. Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle where the gums and teeth meet.
2. Use small circular motions to gently brush the gumline and teeth.
3. Do not scrub or apply too much pressure to the teeth, as this can damage the gums and tooth enamel.
4. Brush every surface of every tooth, cheek-side, tongue-side, and chewing surfaces. Place special emphasis on the surfaces of the back teeth.
5. Use back and forth strokes to brush the chewing surfaces.
6. Brush the tongue to remove fungi, food and debris.
   

The Proper Way to Floss

Flossing is a great way to remove plaque from the interdental regions (between the teeth).  Flossing is an especially important tool for preventing periodontal disease and limiting the depth of the gum pockets.  The interdental regions are difficult to reach with a toothbrush and should be cleansed with dental floss on a daily basis.  The flavor and type of floss are unimportant; choose floss that will be easy and pleasant to use.

Here is a basic guide to proper flossing:

1.Cut a piece of floss to around 18 inches long.

1. Wrap one end of the floss around the middle finger of the left hand and the other end around the middle finger of the right hand until the hands are 2-3 inches apart.
2. Work the floss gently between the teeth toward the gum line.
3. Curve the floss in a C-shape around each individual tooth and carefully slide it beneath the gum line.
4. Carefully move the floss up and down several times to remove interdental plaque and debris.
5. Do not pop the floss in and out between the teeth as this will inflame and cut the gums.

Floss Picks

If you’re overwhelmed by all the new dental care products available, this could be a solid upgrade for you. Floss is strung tightly between two points to provide optimal tension no matter your angle of approach, with a handle for added comfort. Some varieties even come with a tongue scraper as an added bonus, and most are sold in convenient bags that make sharing more hygienic and easy.

2. Electronic Flossers

Now you can completely forget manual flossing and let an electronic device do the job. Similar in appearance to the floss pick but attached to an energy source, vibrations are emitted to remove plaque quickly and efficiently. Having the flossing motion done for you can make the process faster, but you should pay extra attention to the speed setting and pressure applied to your gums to avoid bleeding and other oral injuries.

3. Interdental Brushes/Flossers

It doesn’t get much simpler than this. Instead of using string, a small brush with fine bristles is inserted between the gaps of your teeth. One swift motion in and out is all it takes, quickly removing plaque and gently (but effectively) stimulating your gums in less time than floss. No sawing or string winding is necessary, and it can be done with one hand.

4. Water (or Oral) Irrigators

For comfortable, yet efficient plaque removal, oral irrigators are your best bet. Instead of floss, picks or brushes, strong pulses of water are directed between your teeth to dislodge bacteria and stuck food particles. Oral irrigators are also effective at removing tonsil stones, a common cause of halitosis (bad breath). Home devices can range in size with varying speed options, but portable options also exist for added convenience.

Which One is Right for You

Any of these solutions is better than not flossing at all, but a little research and even a few product trials can help you figure out the best floss alternative for your budget and lifestyle.

Routine dental exams are crucial for managing excellent oral hygiene and diagnosing possible issues, but they are not a “fix-all” solution. Meticulous oral homecare habits should be exercised daily to bypass future dental problems.

Periodontal disease is the preeminent cause of tooth loss in the advanced world and is entirely preventable in the immense bulk of cases. Annual professional cleanings joined with daily self-cleaning can eliminate a high percentage of disease-causing bacteria and plaque.

There are various types of oral hygiene treatments on the supermarket shelves, and it can be challenging to determine which will provide the best benefit to your teeth.

Here is some recommendation for oral homecare:

Dental Flosses

Dental floss is the most popular interdental and subgingival cleaning tool that comes in various types and flavors. The floss is made from thin nylon filaments or polyethylene ribbons to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth. Flossing should usually be twice daily after brushing.

Interdental Cleaners

Hygienists and periodontists will suggest interdental brushes along to dental flossing. These small brushes are tender on the gums and very efficient in cleaning the cervices between the gums. Interdental brushes also come in various shapes and sizes.

Mouth Rinses

There are two basic types of mouth rinse available. One is the cosmetic rinses sold over the counter and temporarily suppress bad breath. Two, remedial rinses may or may not need a prescription. Therapeutic rinses are regulated by the FDA and contain active ingredients that can decrease bad breath, plaque, and cavities. Mouth rinses are recommended to be used after brushing.

Oral Irrigators

Oral irrigators are created to clean debris below the gum line. The water is continuously dispensed from tiny jets into the gum pockets, eliminating harmful bacteria and food particles. Oral irrigators have proven useful in decreasing gum disease risk and should not be used instead of brushing and flossing. Professional cleanings are suggested at least twice annually to extract deeper debris.

Rubber Tip Stimulators

A rubber tip stimulator is an exceptional tool for dislodging plaque from around the gum line and stimulating blood flow to the gums. It should be outlined lightly along with the outer and inner gum at least once each day. The plaque on the rubber tip can be washed off with tap water. It is essential to replace the tip as soon as it starts to appear used.

Tongue Cleaners

Tongue cleaners are unique devices designed to remove bacteria, fungi, and food debris from the tongue surface. The fungi and bacteria that are found on the tongue which causes halitosis (bad breath). This can lead to many systemic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease, and life-threatening: stroke. Tongue cleaning is recommended to be done before brushing to block backup ingestions.

Toothbrushes

There are various types of toothbrushes available. Dentists generally recommend electric toothbrushes because electric brushes are much more useful than manual brushes. The vibrating or revolving motion helps remove plaque and lift food particles from around the gums and teeth. The results are the same as the manual technique, but much more effort is needed.

Traditional toothbrushes should be substituted every three months because worn bristles become impotent over time. Soft bristle toothbrushes are safer and less damaging to the gum tissue. Also, an appropriate sized ADA approved toothbrush should be chosen to allow proper cleaning of all the teeth. Teeth brushing is highly suggested to be followed after each meal.