Are dental x-rays safe? This is a question that many people have, and it is a valid one. After all, radiation can be harmful if it is not used correctly. However, when used properly, dental x-rays are very safe.

Let’s take a look at some of the history of dental x-rays and the benefits they offer. We will also discuss some alternatives to dental x-rays so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not to get them.

What Are Dental X-Rays?

Dental x-rays are a type of radiation that is used to create images of the teeth and jaws. They are similar to medical x-rays, but they use a lower dose of radiation.

Although dental x-rays were first developed in 1896 by Wilhelm Rontgen, who won the Nobel Prize in Physics for his work, they were not widely used by dentists until the 1950s.

Since then, dental x-rays have become an essential part of dentistry. They are used to diagnose problems with the teeth and jaws, such as cavities, gum disease, and tumors.

Dental x-rays are also used to plan treatment, such as braces or tooth extractions.

Are Dental X-Rays Safe?

Dental x-rays use a very low dose of radiation. In fact, the amount of radiation you are exposed to during a dental x-ray is much less than what you are exposed to from other sources, such as the sun.

The risk of harm from dental x-rays is also very low. The chance of developing cancer from dental x-rays is about one in a million. That means that the risk of harm from dental x-rays is very small, especially when compared to the benefits they offer.

Benefits of Dental X-Rays

Dental x-rays are an essential tool for diagnosing problems with the teeth and jaws. They can also help to plan treatment.

Without dental x-rays, many problems would go undetected until they became more serious. This could lead to more extensive and expensive treatment. Dental x-rays are quick and easy to get, and they provide a lot of information that can be used to diagnose and treat problems.

Alternatives to Dental X-Rays

There are some alternatives to dental x-rays, such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, these methods are not as effective at detecting problems with the teeth and jaws.

Dental x-rays are still the best method for diagnosing problems with the teeth and jaws. If you have concerns about the radiation from dental x-rays, you can ask your dentist about using a lead apron. This will help to protect you from the radiation.

You should also make sure that the dental office uses digital x-rays, which use less radiation than traditional x-rays.

Making an Informed Decision

Dental x-rays are safe when used properly. They offer many benefits, such as the ability to diagnose problems early and plan treatment.

Our team of dental professionals is always ready to discuss your concerns regarding dental x-rays or other aspects of your oral health. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment. We would be happy to answer any of your questions!

Dental insurance is a vital part of oral health care for many people. However, navigating dental insurance can be confusing. 

This blog post will help to clear up some of the confusion and explain what dental insurance is, how to find a dentist in your insurance network, and how to receive dental care without insurance.

What is Dental Insurance?

Dental insurance is a type of insurance that helps to cover the cost of dental care. Dental insurance can help to pay for routine dental care, such as cleanings and check-ups, as well as more extensive dental procedures, such as fillings, crowns, and braces.

There are many different types of dental insurance plans available, so it is important to do your research to find a plan that best meets your needs.

How to Find a Dentist in Your Insurance Network

If you have dental insurance, it is important to find a dentist who is in your insurance network. In-network dentists have agreed to accept the terms and conditions of your insurance plan. 

This means that you will likely pay less out-of-pocket for dental care if you see an in-network dentist.

You can typically find a list of in-network dentists on your insurance company’s website. If you are having trouble finding a list of in-network dentists, you can also contact your insurance company directly and ask for a list.

The Best Ways to Save on Dental Care

Dental care can be expensive, but there are a few ways that you can save on the cost of dental care. One way to save on dental care is to use a dental discount plan. Dental discount plans are not insurance, but they do offer discounts on dental care from participating dentists.

Another way to save on dental care is to use a dental savings account. A dental savings account is an account that you can put money into to use for future dental expenses. The money in the account grows tax-free, and you can use it to pay for dental care when you need it.

Finally, you can also save on dental care by using a flexible spending account. A flexible spending account is an account that you can put money into to use for medical expenses, including dental care.

Receiving Dental Care Without Insurance

If you do not have dental insurance, there are still options available for receiving dental care. Many dentists offer discounts for cash-paying patients, so be sure to ask about this when you call to make an appointment.

You can also search for dental clinics that offer sliding-scale fees, which means that the cost of dental care is based on your income.

There are also several government-funded dental clinics available in many communities. These clinics offer low-cost or no-cost dental care for those who qualify.

Navigating dental insurance can be confusing, but it is an important part of maintaining good oral health. By understanding what dental insurance is, how to find a dentist in your insurance network, and how to receive dental care without insurance, you can ensure that you get the dental care you need.

Please contact our team for more information regarding your dental care benefits and how we can best treat your dental needs.

If you are like most people, you probably don’t think too much about your mouthwash. However, if you have periodontal disease, using the right mouthwash is critical to getting rid of the bacteria that is causing your infection.

In this blog post, we will discuss the best mouthwash for treating periodontal disease and what causes this condition. We will also talk about how mouthwash can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Finally, we will warn you about some of the signs of periodontal disease so that you can get treatment as soon as possible.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth. This plaque is made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. Over time, the plaque hardens and becomes tartar. Tartar is very difficult to remove with brushing and flossing alone.

If tartar is not removed, it can cause the gums to become inflamed and bleed easily. This condition is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis.

Types of Mouthwash to Use for Periodontal Disease

Two types of mouthwash can be effective in treating periodontal disease:

Antibacterial Mouthwash

This type of mouthwash contains ingredients that kill bacteria. These mouthwashes can help to reduce plaque and gingivitis. Examples of antibacterial mouthwash include:

• Listerine Total Care Anticavity Mouthwash
• Crest Pro-Health Advanced Deep Cleaning Rinse
• Scope Outlast Long Lasting Mint Mouthwash

Anti-Inflammatory Mouthwash

This type of mouthwash contains ingredients that reduce inflammation. These mouthwashes can help to reduce swelling and pain associated with periodontal disease. Examples of anti-inflammatory mouthwash include:

• Biotene Dry Mouth Oral Rinse
• Orajel Antiseptic Mouth Sore Rinse
• Colgate Peroxyl Oral Cleansing Rinse

 

If you think you may be suffering from periodontal disease, it is important to ask your dentist for mouthwash recommendations that are suitable for your unique situation.

How Mouthwash Can Help Periodontal Disease

Mouthwash can be a helpful tool in the treatment of periodontal disease. Mouthwashes that contain chlorhexidine or hydrogen peroxide can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

Mouthwashes that contain these ingredients should be used twice a day for best results. Be sure to follow the directions on the mouthwash bottle.

Can Mouthwash Cure Periodontal Disease?

Mouthwash can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, but it cannot cure periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a serious condition that requires professional treatment.

Warning Signs of Periodontal Disease

There are several warning signs of periodontal disease. If you notice any of the following, see your dentist right away:

• Swollen or red gums
• Gums that bleed easily
• Bad breath
• Receding gums
• Loose teeth

 

Periodontal disease is a serious condition, but treatment is possible. If you think you may have periodontitis, see your dentist as soon as possible. Early treatment can help prevent the progression of periodontal disease.

Treating Periodontal Disease

If you are suffering from periodontal disease or have recognized one or more of the common warning signs, it is important to call our team today! Scheduling an exam is the only true way to diagnose and treat periodontal disease before it becomes a much more serious issue.

Proper oral health is essential for your overall health, so don’t delay in getting the treatment you need. We are here to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment!

If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your gum health until there’s a problem. And by that time, it’s often too late.

Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems in the United States and can lead to several other serious health issues if left untreated.

In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of massaging your gum line and how to do it properly. We’ll also cover some other tips for keeping your gums healthy!

Why Massaging Your Gum Line is Important

Did you know that massaging your gum line can help improve your dental health? It’s true! There are several benefits to regular gum massage.

Keep Your Gums Healthy

By massaging your gum line, you can help keep your gums healthy and free from disease. Massage helps to improve blood circulation in the gums, which can help them stay healthy and strong.

Prevent Gum Disease

Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems and can lead to several other serious health issues if left untreated. Massaging your gum line can help prevent gum disease from developing.

Remove Plaque and Tartar

Plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth and gums over time, leading to gum disease and other dental problems. Massaging your gum line can help remove plaque and tartar from your gums, helping to keep them healthy.

Reduce Inflammation

Massaging also helps to reduce inflammation, which can be helpful if you are already experiencing gum problems.

How to Massage Your Gum Line

Now that you know the importance of massaging your gum line, let’s learn how to do it properly. Here are a few tips:

• Use gentle pressure when massaging. You don’t need to use a lot of force!
• Massage for at least two minutes each day.
• Use a circular motion, moving from the inside of your gum line to the outside.
• Be sure to massage all areas of your gum line, including the front, back, and top.

Best Methods for Massaging Your Gum Line

There are a few different ways to massage your gum line. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Use your thumb and index finger to make circular motions around the gum line.
• Massage each tooth individually, using circular motions with your thumb and index finger.
• Use a toothbrush to massage your gum line, making gentle back-and-forth motions.

How Often Should You Massage Your Gum Line?

We recommend massaging your gum line at least once a day. However, if you are experiencing any problems with your gums, you may need to do it more often. Talk to your dentist during your next visit for specific instructions.

Is There Anyone Who Shouldn’t Massage Their Gum Line?

There are a few people who shouldn’t massage their gum line. If you are pregnant, have diabetes, or are on blood thinners, talk to your dentist before starting a gum massage routine.

Other Tips for Optimal Gum Health

In addition to massaging your gum line, there are a few other things you can do to keep them healthy:

• Avoid smoking or chewing tobacco products.
• Avoid eating sugary foods and drinks.
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day.
• See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Prioritize Your Gum Health

We are passionate about providing our patients with comprehensive knowledge of maintaining their oral health. If you have any questions about massaging your gum line or how to keep your gums healthy, please don’t hesitate to ask our team during your next visit!

If you’re like most people, you enjoy a cold can of soda now and then. But what you may not know is that drinking soda has some serious long-term effects on your teeth.

In this month’s blog post, we will discuss the dangers of drinking soda and how it can damage your teeth over time. We’ll also provide some tips for keeping your teeth healthy and free from the harmful effects of soda!

How Soda Affects Your Teeth Over Time

Soda is one of the most popular drinks in the world, but it’s also one of the worst for your teeth. Here’s why:

 

• Soda is high in sugar and acid, which can damage your teeth over time.
• The artificial sweeteners in soda can also cause tooth decay.
• Soda is a major contributor to tooth erosion.
• Drinking soda regularly can increase your risk of developing cavities and other dental problems.

 

Let’s take a closer look at some of the long-term risks of drinking soda frequently:

Soda Can Lead to Cavities

One of the biggest dangers of drinking soda is that it can lead to cavities. The sugar and acid in soda can wear down your tooth’s enamel, making them more susceptible to cavities. 

Over time, drinking soda can lead to several dental problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and even loss of teeth.

Soda Can Cause Gum Disease

Another danger of drinking soda is that it can cause gum disease. The sugar and acid in soda can irritate your gums, leading to inflammation and eventually gum disease. Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss and even heart disease.

Soda Can Cause Tooth Decay

Lastly, the most well-known danger of drinking soda is that it can cause tooth decay. The sugar and acid in soda create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow, leading to plaque build-up and tooth decay. 

If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to serious dental problems such as cavities and even tooth loss.

Protecting Your Teeth From Soda

So, what can you do to protect your teeth from the dangers of soda? Here are a few tips:

 

• Drink water instead of soda. Water is healthy for your teeth and won’t damage them like soda does.
• Avoid sipping on soda throughout the day. The sugar and acid in soda will have a greater impact on your teeth if you drink it slowly over time. Drink it all at once or not at all!
• Brush your teeth after drinking soda. Brushing your teeth helps remove the sugar and acid that can cause damage to your teeth.
• See your dentist regularly. A professional dental cleaning can help remove plaque build-up caused by drinking soda.

 

Soda is a popular drink, but it’s important to be aware of the dangers it can pose to your teeth. Does this mean you can never enjoy a bubbly beverage? No!  Just be sure to drink soda in moderation and take steps to protect your teeth from the damage it can cause.

By following the tips shared in this post, you can protect your teeth from the harmful effects of soda and keep them healthy for years to come!

 

If you have tooth sensitivity, it can be difficult to eat well and enjoy the foods that you love. It is important to know how to combat tooth sensitivity so that your teeth won’t bother you when eating any food.

In this blog post, we are going to share 6 tips for combating tooth sensitivity so that your teeth don’t get in the way of enjoying all types of food!

1. Use Toothpaste to Your Advantage

If you have tooth sensitivity, try using toothpaste that is made for sensitive teeth. It will help form a barrier around the tooth that protects it from things like hot or cold food. You can also opt for a mouthwash that contains fluoride and potassium nitrate if you are experiencing tooth sensitivity.

2. Consume Tooth-Friendly Foods

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, try to avoid eating too many acidic or sugary foods because they can irritate your teeth even more! Foods like fruits and vegetables will help strengthen the enamel on your teeth which helps them stay strong against tooth sensitivity.

Be careful about what types of beverages that you drink too since they can cause tooth sensitivity as well. Try to stick with water, milk, or tea when you are experiencing tooth sensitivity.

3. Use a Straw

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, try to drink your beverages with a straw instead of taking sips directly from the cup. This will help keep your teeth safe since it keeps them away from hot or cold drinks!

Additionally, by using a straw you can decrease staining to your teeth caused by dark beverages like coffee or tea.

4. Use Mouthwash

Using mouthwash can help combat tooth sensitivity by removing plaque and debris from your teeth. It will also leave the tooth with a fresh, clean feeling which is awesome! Make sure that you are using mouthwash twice daily to get the best results for tooth brushing.

5. Rinse with Salt Water

You can rinse your toothbrush with saltwater before brushing to help combat tooth sensitivity. The high concentration of salt will act as an antiseptic that kills the bacteria that may be causing tooth sensitivity! Make sure to spit out this mixture after rinsing and don’t swallow it since you do not want too much salt in your body.

You can also rinse with a mixture that has warm water and baking soda, but make sure to brush after since toothpaste needs toothbrush bristles to get the best results!

6. Consult a Dental Expert

One of the best ways to combat tooth sensitivity is to consult a dental expert. In some cases, tooth sensitivity can be caused by tooth decay or tooth damage which a dental expert can help fix! Make sure to visit your dentist once every six months for checkups and cleanings.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, make sure to combat it with the tips mentioned above so that your teeth don’t get in the way of eating all types of food again! If tooth sensitivity persists, you should also make an appointment to see one of our dental experts to figure out the root cause of tooth sensitivity.

Dental implants are a great option for those who need tooth replacement. They can be used to replace one or more teeth and they offer many benefits over other methods of treatment. Learn about the basics of dental implants, what they’re made from, and how long it takes to get them installed in this blog post!

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are tiny titanium posts that can be surgically placed into the jawbone. When an implant is in place, it forms its own connection to tooth roots inside of your mouth and bone tissue around them within months.

Once this process has begun, a crown or bridge made from porcelain fused with metal may then be attached to the implant creating a new replacement tooth. This dental restoration will look like natural teeth and feel like real ones too!

Candidates for Dental Implants

Dental implants can benefit a variety of people! Generally, dental implants are used to replace one or more teeth. This is usually done when the tooth root has been destroyed due to decay and other factors such as periodontal disease. The loss of natural tooth roots will mean that your mouth cannot support a single replacement tooth without help from an implant post.

However, if you have any remaining healthy jawbone tissue you can be a candidate for this type of treatment option! It may also be necessary in some cases if there isn’t enough bone left around the empty socket because after time even gum tissues start wearing out too. In these situations, your dentist might recommend multiple implants to support a bridge or full arch replacement.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer many benefits over other types of tooth replacement. Implant-supported crowns are guaranteed to be permanent, unlike removable dentures that can become loose and slip around your mouth as time goes by.

If you suffer from TMJ or have sensitive teeth, implants will eliminate this problem because there is no need for a metal bar between the jaw and gums like with traditional bridges.

Some of the benefits of dental implants include:

 

• Improved chewing function
• A more attractive smile
• Ability to enjoy favorite foods again
• Improved self-confidence
• No need for adhesive denture adhesives

 

For many of our patients, dental implants not only benefit the health of their smile but also their overall happiness and wellbeing.

Alternatives to Dental Implants

There are several alternatives to dental implants available. They don’t, however, offer the same level of benefits. Teeth can be replaced using bridges that need metal teeth on either side for support or veneers which cover natural teeth with a thin layer of porcelain.

These options may not last as long and will often cause problems in the jaw joint over time due to their inability to fuse directly into your bone tissue like implants.

As you can see, there are many reasons why dental implant treatment is superior when compared to other tooth-replacement methods. Call us today to schedule an appointment to discuss how dental implants can improve your smile!

As one of the most common oral health concerns, there is great confusion surrounding the topic of tooth cavities. What causes cavities? Are some people just more prone to this problem than others? The answers to these questions may surprise you! 

So, what is a cavity? A cavity is a form of tooth decay. The bacteria that is found in the mouth is highly acidic and interacts with plaque to eat away at your tooth’s enamel. Over time, this results in a hole in your tooth that will continue to grow deeper if you don’t receive professional care.

While cavities in their early stages are invisible to the untrained eye, they will begin to cause a toothache or pain once reaching the inside of the tooth. Fortunately, cavities are easily treatable through a process called a dental filling. Now that we know more about what a cavity really is, let’s take a look at some of the most common myths about tooth cavities.

Myth: Only Kids Get Cavities

A cavity is often the first type of oral health problem a child experiences. Because of this, many people are under the impression that only kids get cavities. However, this is simply a myth! 

Patients of every age are susceptible to tooth cavities. In fact, due to advancements in dentistry over the past 20 years, children are now at a lower risk for developing cavities than their older family members. 

Myth: Sugar is The Only Thing That Causes Cavities

This is where things get tricky. While this is mostly a myth, there is some truth behind it! The primary culprit in causing cavities is bacteria in the mouth. This bacteria is responsible for the production of the destructive acid that begins to eat through the enamel of your teeth. 

Where does this bacteria come from? The primary food groups that cause cavities are carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are naturally occurring sugars and are exist in a variety of foods including bread, rice, potatoes, and more.

So while that sugary treat certainly doesn’t do your teeth any favors, it is not the only thing that increases your chances of developing a cavity.

Myth: There is No True Way to Prevent Cavities

Unfortunately, some people are more prone to cavities than others. Some individuals are more prone to developing cavity-causing bacteria than others. Others simply have gaps in their smiles that provide more opportunities for decay. However, even for individuals with these pre-existing conditions, there are always ways to prevent cavities! 

Patients of every age can take steps towards preventing cavities by brushing their teeth thoroughly twice each day and flossing daily. However, the most effective way to prevent cavities is to visit your dentist for bi-annual dental cleanings and exams.

As we discussed previously, cavities are caused when the bacteria interacts with the plaque that accumulates on the surface of your teeth. While daily oral hygiene tasks keep this plaque at bay, the only true way to achieve a clean smile is through a professional dental cleaning! 

We often discuss the foods that are not good for our teeth. But did you know that certain foods can benefit the health of both your teeth and your gums? By adding these foods into your diet, you can brighten your smile, strengthen your teeth, and work towards a healthier, happier smile. 

Here are 8 of the best foods to eat for your oral health:

1. Apples

Apples serve many purposes. While it is wise to minimize your intake of sweets, an apple can curb your sweet tooth while also contributing to your oral health! Eating an apple encourages increased saliva production, something that helps to rinse away bacteria and food particles sticking around after your meal. The texture of the apple also helps to stimulate your gums and leaves your teeth feeling fresh! 

2. Yogurt

Yogurt is likely not the first thing that comes to mind as you consider oral health. However, there are many ways that this tasty treat is beneficial to your smile! Yogurt is high in both protein and calcium, two things that help to strengthen your teeth. Additionally, the probiotics found in yogurt help to counteract the bad bacteria that is responsible for forming cavities. 

Not all yogurt is created equal. It is important to look for yogurt with minimal sugars or opt for plain yogurt and add fruit for a bit of sweetness.

3. Cheese

Cheese, like yogurt and other dairy products, is high in calcium and protein. Additionally, studies have suggested that cheese raises the pH of the mouth, lowering the risk of tooth decay! 

4. Leafy Greens

You are likely not surprised that leafy greens found a spot on this list. Greens such as spinach and kale contain plenty of vitamins and minerals that promote optimal health. While greens may not be your snack of choice, they make a perfect addition to a salad, smoothie, or even pizza.

5. Carrots

Carrots are quite similar to apples, encouraging the production of saliva that fends of cavities. This tasty treat also contains high amounts of fiber and vitamin A, both of which benefit your smile!

6. Celery

Celery is by far one of the least popular vegetables. However, it contains antioxidants such as vitamins A and C that benefit your gum health. Additionally, celery gently cleans bacteria and food particles from the surface of your teeth. Not a fan of the taste? Add a bit of cream cheese or peanut butter for a tasty treat!

7. Raisins

Perhaps one of the most surprising foods on this list is raisins! Raisins contain phytochemicals that could help fight cavity-causing bacteria and minimize the risk of gum disease. 

8. Strawberries

As if we needed another reason to love this sweet treat, strawberries contain a variety of nutrients including fiber, folate, manganese, and vitamin C. The malic acid found in many fruits, including strawberries, has even been said to naturally whiten your teeth. We consider that a win! 

Next time you head to the kitchen for a snack, consider one of these healthy (yet delicious) options. By eating right, you can achieve a smile that is both healthy and bright!

For a lot of people, even the thought of visiting the dentist causes fear and anxiety.

This can be due to past trauma, a fear of the unknown, lack of communication, or simply from embarrassment. You don’t have to suffer in pain. We have 4 helpful tips to help you overcome your fear of the dentist.

 

Be Prepared

Research the dental office you’ll be visiting and learn more about the office and people. For extra peace of mind, find out if they are specialized in your procedure.

Read online reviews. See what others have to say about their experiences. Many people leave reviews on their entire appointment, from start to finish. Seek those reviews out to get a good understanding of how you can expect your visit to go.

For children, explain their dental procedure in terms that they can understand and will help ease their anxiety. Let them know that the dentist isn’t a scary place!

 

Ask Questions

Research the dental procedure you’re going to have. Make a list of any questions you want to have answered before you schedule your appointment.

Once you’re there, ask the dental assistant and dentist to keep you informed of what they are doing, as they do it.

Don’t be afraid to make pre or post-procedure calls regarding aftercare, concerns, or any questions you have.

 

Distract and Relax

Have someone you trust to go along with you. This can be a parent, spouse, sibling, or friend. They can encourage and talk to you while you wait to help keep your anxiety down.

For children, bring along their favorite stuffed animal or blanket. These familiar objects can help calm their nerves.

Focus on your breathing. If you truly concentrate only on steady breathing, you might be surprised how hard it is to think about anything else!

Listen to music or a podcast with your earphones. For children, listening to their favorite songs or storybooks is a great way to help keep their minds busy.

Ask about sedation. Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you relax for a better dental care experience. You will still be able to ask questions, but you will be calmer throughout treatment.

 

Talk It Out

Sometimes the fear can be overwhelming. You can seek counseling to get the root cause of your dental fear. Professional assistance may help you succeed in overcoming it. Your dental health is worth it!

If you have any questions or want to learn how we can help you put your best smile forward, please don’t hesitate to contact us!