There are several different types of dental bites, also known as occlusion. Here are some common types:
Overbite: When the upper front teeth overlap significantly with the lower front teeth.
Underbite: When the lower front teeth overlap significantly with the upper front teeth.
Crossbite: When the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, instead of outside them.
Open bite: When the upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed.
Deep bite: When the upper front teeth cover the majority of the lower front teeth when the mouth is closed.
Crowding: When there is not enough space in the mouth for all the teeth, causing them to overlap or twist.
Spacing: When there are gaps between the teeth, usually caused by missing teeth or small teeth.
It’s important to note that many people have variations of these bites that are considered normal and may not require treatment. However, severe cases of dental bites can cause problems with chewing, speech, and overall oral health, and may require orthodontic treatment to correct.
How to perfect your bite?
The treatment for dental bites or occlusion depends on the type and severity of the problem. Here are some common methods used to fix dental bites:
Braces: Braces are the most common treatment for fixing dental bites. They use brackets and wires to apply pressure to the teeth and move them into the correct position.
Aligners: Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, can also be used to fix dental bites. They work similarly to braces, but are more discreet and removable.
Jaw surgery: In cases where the problem is caused by a misaligned jaw, surgery may be necessary to correct the issue.
Tooth extraction: In some cases, removing one or more teeth may be necessary to create enough space in the mouth to correct a bite problem.
Retainers: After braces or aligners, a retainer may be necessary to maintain the corrected position of the teeth.
It’s important to consult with a qualified orthodontist or dentist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific dental bite problem.
How long is the treatment for fixing dental bites?
The duration of orthodontic treatment for fixing dental bites depends on the severity of the problem, the type of treatment used, and the individual patient’s response to treatment. In general, the length of treatment can range from several months to several years.
For mild to moderate cases, treatment with braces or aligners may take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. In more severe cases, treatment may take longer, up to 3 years or more.
It’s important to note that orthodontic treatment requires consistent and careful follow-up to achieve the desired results. This includes regular adjustments to braces or aligners, maintaining good oral hygiene, and wearing retainers as prescribed after the braces or aligners are removed.
Your dentist will be able to give you a more accurate estimate of how long your treatment will take after evaluating your specific case.
Receding gums, also known as gingival recession, is a condition where the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth roots. This can lead to sensitivity, pain, and, in severe cases, tooth loss.
What causes Receding gums?
Gingival recession can be caused by several factors, including:
Periodontal disease: This is a bacterial infection that affects the gum tissue and bone that supports the teeth. As the infection progresses, it can cause the gums to recede.
Aggressive brushing: Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can cause the gum tissue to wear away.
Genetics: Some people may be more prone to gingival recession due to their genetic makeup.
Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly can lead to a buildup of plaque, which can cause the gums to recede.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can make the gums more sensitive and prone to recession.
Tobacco use: Smoking or using other tobacco products can cause the gum tissue to shrink away from the teeth
Solutions for Receding Gums
The treatment for receding gums will depend on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Here are some steps that you can take to fix receding gums:
Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss daily. This will help to remove plaque and prevent further gum recession.
Use a desensitizing toothpaste: This type of toothpaste can help to block the sensation of pain in the exposed tooth roots.
Address any underlying dental problems: Gum disease or tooth decay can contribute to receding gums. Work with your dentist to address these issues.
Change your brushing technique: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can cause the gum tissue to wear away. Brush gently in circular motions with a soft-bristled brush.
Get a gum graft: In more severe cases of receding gums, a gum graft may be recommended. This involves taking tissue from another area of your mouth and attaching it to the area where the gums have receded.
Consider pinhole surgical technique: This is a minimally invasive procedure where a small hole is made in the gum tissue and then the tissue is moved to cover the exposed tooth roots.
How can your dentist help?
If you have receding gums, it’s important to talk to your dentist. Treatment options may include scaling and root planing, gum graft surgery, or other procedures to restore the gum tissue and prevent further recession. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as improved oral hygiene or quitting tobacco use may be recommended.
It’s important to talk to your dentist about any gum recession you are experiencing, as they can help you determine the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment. Additionally, practicing good oral hygiene and making lifestyle changes can help prevent gum recession from occurring in the first place.
Sensitive teeth refers to a condition where the teeth experience discomfort or pain in response to certain stimuli, such as cold or hot temperatures, sweet or sour foods, or pressure from biting or chewing. This sensitivity is typically caused by the exposure of the tooth’s underlying dentin layer, which contains tiny tubules that lead to the nerves in the tooth. When the dentin is exposed, stimuli can trigger pain or discomfort in the tooth.
What causes sensitive teeth?
Sensitive teeth can be caused by a variety of factors, including tooth decay, gum disease, teeth grinding or clenching, a cracked or chipped tooth, acidic foods or drinks, and overzealous brushing or brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush. Treatment for sensitive teeth may include using desensitizing toothpaste, applying fluoride varnish, using a mouthguard to protect teeth from grinding, or addressing underlying dental problems with restorative treatments such as fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy.
How to fix sensitive teeth?
The treatment for sensitive teeth will depend on the underlying cause of the sensitivity. Here are some steps that you can take to fix sensitive teeth:
Use desensitizing toothpaste: This type of toothpaste contains compounds that help to block the sensation of pain in the tooth. Use it as directed by your dentist or on the product packaging.
Change your brushing habits: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can contribute to tooth sensitivity. Switch to a soft-bristled brush and brush gently in circular motions.
Avoid acidic foods and drinks: Foods and drinks that are high in acid, such as citrus fruits and sodas, can erode tooth enamel and contribute to sensitivity. Limit your consumption of these items.
Address dental problems: Tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth grinding can all contribute to tooth sensitivity. If you have any of these conditions, work with your dentist to address them.
Consider fluoride treatment: Your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment to help strengthen tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity.
Use a mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard can help to protect your teeth and reduce sensitivity.
How can your Dentist help?
It’s important to talk to your dentist about any tooth sensitivity you are experiencing, as they can help you determine the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment. Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Xavier at Texan Smile today to learn more.
Quip is electric, elegant, easy-to-use, beautiful, and most importantly, great at what it is supposed to do.
The toothbrush is the primary tool when it comes to oral health. And as you are probably aware, there is no shortage of options out in the market when it comes to what is available. There are all kinds and shapes and colors to choose from for a toothbrush. There is the good ol’ no-frill regular toothbrush that we have all used in the past to the luxury titanium toothbrushes ( yes, they do exist ! ). In the middle of all these gadgets and marketing frenzy, there is Quip. Quip is electric, elegant, easy-to-use, beautiful, and most importantly, great at what it is supposed to do.
So what makes Quip so good?
Quip Design. It is simple, stylish, and easy to use. No frills, no cables, no gimmicks – only one button setting to turn it on or off. The Quip brush head uses soft silicone fibers for deeper cleaning. Quip uses 2 AAA batteries that will last for six months if you use them for the recommended 2 x 2 brushing routine. The product is very minimalist and makes it a perfect companion if you want to take it with you to your work or when you travel.
The two brush heads that come with the Quip pack are the same in size and softness. Quip also comes with a simple holder that helps you stick the brush to your bathroom mirror if you prefer. Like any brush, it has a tongue scraper on the back. Quip is extremely quiet and only produces subtle pulses. And the colors, Quip comes in a wide array of colors, and all of them are beautiful.
Quip Features
Best and most innovative Quip feature of all, the timer-based vibration. As per ADA recommendations, for good oral hygiene, everyone should, at the minimum, brush their teeth two times a day for 2 mins each. If you own a Quip, the brush makes it easy for you. Quip produces 30-second pulses for 2 minutes. The brush comes with an inbuilt timer that starts when you press a button, and the vibrations stop every 30 seconds. This routine helps the user focus on the four quarters of the mouth and ensures each part got the required attention. And, as a result, all teeth will be cleaned, and none skipped.
Quip Subscription service. Quip offers subscription services that allow getting replacement parts – like the brush head – at a discounted rate at scheduled times. Most people don’t realize that the bristles wear down with continued use over time and lose their efficiency to clean the teeth effectively. Quip subscription service alleviates this problem by sending you a new replacement brush head every three months. Quip subscription service comes at an extra charge.
What is Included. If you get a Quip starter package, check out what it may include according to your order:
• One toothbrush including battery
• One toothpaste usable for 3 months
• One base to keep the brush stand easily
• A tube to attach the brush with mirror or wall
• Product usage instruction and oral hygiene manual
Quip also comes in both adult and kid sizes. While this might not stand out as an innovative feature, it does provide a great tool to get the younger ones interested in oral hygiene. Overall, Quip is a well-designed product with the user in mind. Quip delivered successfully on the core function rather than trying to fit in all the bells and whistles—a must-required tool for anyone fighting the good fight to keep their smile healthy.
A dentist is your main ally in your fight to complete oral health and a perfect smile, but you have the power to take the first and most crucial step – and that is to commit to a good oral hygiene care routine. Texan Smile, a premier Family and Cosmetic Dentist in Sugar Land, features cutting-edge technology, a modern and convenient facility, friendly staff, and offers the best dental care for you and your family. Located near the Riverstone neighborhood in Sugar Land, we are easily accessible for all Sugar Land residents. In addition, we offer a wide array of services for you and your family. So, come in to see us, and don’t forget to check out our exclusive promotions.
Dental hygiene is a crucial component of your overall health and helps you to keep your mouth, gums, and teeth clean and healthy.
Dental hygiene is a crucial component of your overall health and helps you to keep your mouth, gums, and teeth clean and healthy. Oral hygiene is critical to avoid dental health issues such as gingivitis, periodontitis, and cavities. In addition, good dental hygiene practices help avoid common oral health problems such as halitosis ( bad breath ) and keep your smile beautiful. Oral health issues can affect your everyday life by impacting fundamental functions like talking, eating, smiling, and even could lead to broader health issues.
Lack of basic oral hygiene leads to the accumulation of bacterial plaque on the teeth’ surface, which transforms into a hard layer of sugar and bacteria. Plaque can impact oral health and lead to gum inflammation, cavity, tartar, and periodontal or periodontitis disease.
So how do we get to get to good oral hygiene?
Simple – 2 minutes, two times a day. Brushing your teeth at least two times a day for two minutes is the minimum requirement for daily oral hygiene.
A popular recommendation is to brush your teeth, if possible, after each meal. While this may not be possible for everyone, even drinking a glass of water after each meal and washing your mouth thoroughly after each meal will help to remove any food that remains leftover in the mouth after the meal.
A toothbrush can only reach the exposed surfaces of a tooth. Food can get stuck between teeth or between teeth and gum. So, Flossing is vital for maintaining oral hygiene. If left uncleaned, these food particles can cause bad breath and gum diseases. Flossing, when done correctly, removes these food particles that brushing cannot. Make sure to include Flossing in your daily oral care routine.
From a very young age, kids need to learn about oral hygiene practices. As soon as the child starts to have the required skill, the parents should encourage them to brush their teeth. However, parents should follow up and ensure that children correctly did the brushing. Regular follow-ups will promote healthy habits and instill the importance of oral health in young minds. Until the age of seven, the child can have flaws in the brushing process.
Health diet and habits contribute to oral health and hygiene. Having a balanced diet and avoiding too many sugary foods can help with your oral health and overall health. Soda and other high-sugar foods create a more favorable environment for bacteria to thrive. In addition, habits like smoking and chewing tobacco, while creates grave health issues, also impact your oral health and is one of the leading causes of oral cancer.
Routine visits to the dentist help to ensure your oral health is good. Through exams and x-rays ( if needed ), a dentist can examine your oral health and recommend if any treatment is required. Your dentist will advise on how often you need to visit them for routine checkups as it may vary for individuals.
Oral health issues and tooth loss affects everyday life by impacting one’s ability to chew food or talk. Even though medicine and technology have made far too many advancements, every dentist would agree that practicing better oral health care is the most fundamental step in preserving your natural teeth. In addition, better oral hygiene will help you avoid painful dental health issues and time-consuming treatments at your dentist.
A dentist is your key ally in your fight to complete oral health and a perfect smile, but you have the power to take the first and most crucial step – and that is to commit to a good oral hygiene care routine. Texan Smile, a premier Family and Cosmetic Dentist in Sugar Land, features cutting-edge technology, a modern and convenient facility, friendly staff, and offers the best dental care for you and your family. Located near the Riverstone neighborhood in Sugar Land, we are easily accessible for all Sugar Land residents. In addition, we offer a wide array of services for you and your family. So come in to see us, and don’t forget to check out our exclusive promotions.
This article will help you pick out your dentist and point you to the questions and information you need to have handy before making that choice.
A visit to the dentist can be perplexing and sometimes a bit confusing. You might even come across a few unfamiliar terms. In the midst of all that, you might end up forgetting questions you wanted to ask. This article collects information that might help you pick out your dentist and the questions/information you need to have handy before making that choice. Here are a few basic questions that everyone can benefit from before scheduling your appointment with your dentist
What services does the provider offer?
When selecting a dental provider, ensure they provide e is a full-service family and cosmetic dental practice. It will be efficient and a great timesaver to pick a dentist that can serve the whole family.
Do I need x- rays?
During your first visit, your provider will do a consultation to understand your dental needs. Based on your dental history and this consultation, it can be determined if x-rays are required or not. In addition, the dentist will inform you of the number of x-rays needed.
Does the provider offer a free consultation?
The free consultation is for you if you only need to talk to a dentist, discuss oral health concerns, or discuss a potential procedure or treatment. Some providers may or may not offer this service. Please note that since there is no exam or x-rays included in free consultations, your provider will be limited to the advice or guidance they can offer. Above all, consultation allows you to meet the provider, see the facility and make sure you feel welcome and comfortable without the risk of commitment.
We do offer Free Consultations at Texan Smile.
Does the provider accept dental insurance?
Make sure your provider accepts your insurance and selected coverage. Each insurance company offers multiple programs with various levels of coverage.
What will be the out-of-pocket expense?
Even with insurance, there could be out-of-pocket expenses depending on the coverage and plan. Once you provide your insurance details to your provider, they will look up your insurance benefits and help you understand your benefits and coverage.
What is In-Network vs. Out of Network coverage?
While most providers work with various insurances, the plans and coverage could vary, and your benefits will depend on that factor. If your provider is “In-network” with your insurance, you will have access to better discounts, and your out-of-pocket expenses will be less. If the provider is “Out-of-network,” then the providers do not have any agreements with the insurance, and you will not have access to the discounted rates. Thus, you will pay a higher fee.
Please note that specific insurances will allow you to see “Out-of-network” providers with similar benefits or discounts as an “In-network” provider. Your dentist should be able to clarify these details for you.
At Texan Smile, we make every effort to educate our patients on their insurance benefits, coverage, and out-of-pocket expenses and make sure to answer any questions our guests have.
What is the difference between PPO vs. HMO insurances?
Each insurance company has a network of providers. With a PPO plan, you can see any provider who is within the insurance company’s network. For HMO plans, your plan will let you choose a single provider who accepts HMO plans.
What payment types are accepted?
Understand the different payment types accepted at your dentist, including your preferred mode of payment.
Are any payment plans offered?
Most dental clinics offer Care Credit, and some offer in-house payment plans. For example, at Texan Smile, we offer 6 and 12 months interest-free payment plans through Care Credit. In addition, we also provide a custom in-house payment plan for our patients.
What are my options if I do not have dental insurance?
Dental insurances allow for lightening the cost of dental treatment and care. And not having dental insurance can cause a financial burden. At Texan Smile, we offer a Gold Package payment plan with additional discounts and convenient Texan Smile EasyPay payment plans for our patients to get the care they need.
If I work late or have a busy schedule, when can I get a dental appointment?
It would help if you chose a provider that offers flexible or late/weekend hours. For example, at Texan Smile, we offer late hours on Thursday – till 7 PM – and open on Saturdays to accommodate even the most demanding schedules.
How can I schedule an emergency dental visit?
Life can be unexpected, and it will be good to know if your provider accommodates emergency appointments. For example, if you are in pain or experience any dental emergency, you should see your provider. At Texan Smile, we will always try to accommodate emergency patients even when we have a busy schedule.
Are walk-in dental appointments available?
Yes. We do accept walk-ins. There might be a delay if there are scheduled patients at the same time. But we will inform you of the wait time.
Can I get the treatment started the same day?
Some providers do allow to start same-day treatment. Your time is valuable, and most of the patients get their treatment stated on the same day at Texan Smile.
Can I move to a different provider mid-treatment?
While not recommended, if you have reasons to move to another provider, you may do so. However, you will need to work with your current provider to transfer your patient history and treatment details to the new provider.
The Texan Smile Advantage
At Texan Smile, we answer all your questions and ensure the treatment plan we recommend for you will guarantee a better oral health outcome. Being a privately owned practice, we can put you and your well-being in focus rather than adhering to a corporate sales model or goals. At Texan Smile, everyone is family. We are honest and direct with our patients and take the time to answer all the questions and provide the ideal options for treatment.
Welcome to Texan Smile, where every smile counts. We combine our experience and in-depth understanding of oral health to identify our patients’ goals – whether it is achieving complete oral health or perfecting a smile – and set them on a path to achieve their goals. We have hired the most qualified staff at our clinic to ensure our patients receive the best care possible. In addition, our office uses new and emerging technologies that put customer comfort and health at the forefront.
How much of an impact does your dietary choices and lifestyle have on your oral and overall health. Read more to find out
What does it take to have a great and healthy smile? Yes, good oral hygiene habits and routine dentist visits will take you a long way. But your dietary choices and lifestyle can also have a significant impact on your overall health.
So let us take a deeper look. It is also essential to understand that oral issues can propagate to the rest of the body and affect your overall health and vice versa.
Healthier smiles for a happier you
Oral health is a critical component of your health, and oral health issues can affect your overall well-being. While a good oral care routine is the most fundamental step in achieving complete oral health, other aspects of your life, like your diet and habits, also play significant roles.
As a result, deteriorating oral health can affect even essential functions such as eating, speaking, smiling, and even impact overall health.
Diet
For most, the day starts with a cup of coffee. But, coffee contains tannins which cause color compounds that can discolor the teeth’ enamel. And, tea and wine also have tannins. So, over time, drinking coffee, tea and wine can stain your teeth with a yellow tint.
Our mouth has about 1000 kinds of bacteria and millions of them. Not all of these bacteria are bad and cause issues. The good bacteria helps to fight off the bad ones that cause bad breath, cavities, and other oral health issues. Your diet plays a significant role in forming the balance between good and bad bacteria. The harmful bacteria can consume the sugar from your diet and generate lactic acid, damaging the tooth enamel and cause caries. Now keep in mind that not every type of sugar is the same. Sugar from fruits and other natural sources is complex and not as sticky or has high concentration as the simple sugar found in candy or soda.
Fruits are a healthy option for your diet
A healthier alternative and an excellent option to fight off sugar cravings would be some fresh fruits. Fresh fruits provide additional overall health benefits. More of these stickier, simpler sugars that you consume, higher are the chances for these sugars to remain on your teeth. So make sure to reduce the consumption of simple sugars and brush your teeth regularly once you eat.
Using tobacco
Smoking or chewing tobacco can cause a lot of health issues, including oral health. According to American Cancer Association, smoking is the cause of ~80% of all lung cancer cases in the US. In addition, smoking hinders your body’s ability to fight gum diseases and reduces the treatment effectiveness. Severe gum diseases or Gingivitis can cause tooth loss.
Genetics
Another significant factor that could determine your oral health is your genetics. If there is a history of oral or gum health issues in the family, you have a higher chance of encountering similar oral health issues.
Therefore, if you are aware of oral health issues in your family, you will need to take extra precautions and follow a stricter oral care routine to avoid similar problems.
Visiting your dentist
Your dentist can provide you with professional help and guidance in your journey to achieve complete oral health. A Dentist is your only ally when it comes to diagnosing and treating any oral health issues. Once your dentist has learned about you and your oral health conditions, they can advise and provide short and long-term treatment plans for you.
Dentists can also help with routine regular and deep cleaning procedures to remove any plaque build-up, thus mitigating gum diseases or caries risks.
Texan Smile, a premier Family and Cosmetic Dentist in Sugar Land, features cutting-edge technology, a modern and convenient facility, friendly staff, and offers the best dental care for you and your family. We are conveniently located near the University Boulevard and LJ Parkway intersection and are easily accessible for all Sugar Land residents.
We offer a wide array of services for you and your family. We combine our experience and in-depth understanding of oral health to identify our patients’ goals – whether it is achieving complete oral health or perfecting a smile – and set them on a path to achieve their goals. We have hired the most qualified staff at our clinic to ensure our patients receive the best care possible. In addition, our office has new technologies and tools that put customer comfort and health at the forefront.
At Texan Smile Sugar Land, a privately owned dental practice, you can choose from a wide range of preventive care and cosmetic services to help you achieve your perfect smile. We strive and aspire to be your trusted partner and empower you to achieve complete oral health and cosmetic perfection through our quality services.
We promise to treat everyone equally and provide the best possible care. Our success is proportional to your satisfaction. Each of you offers an opportunity for us to hold up our promises and values, write a new success story and add another happy member to our growing Texan Smile family.
Whether you are looking for a routine dental check or perfecting your smile, or trying to take care of a nagging toothache, you are always welcome at Texan Smile to come in for a free consultation. So come in to see us, and don’t forget to check out our exclusive promotions.
This year, Texan Smile is putting a list together that you will actually want to keep.
It is that time of the year again and as every year we start thinking of making new resolutions for the new year. We have all done it with varying degrees of success . This year, Texan Smile is putting a list together that you will actually want to keep. In case you are wondering why would we publish a new year resolution before thanksgiving, you guessed right – there is no need to wait to start practicing better oral health care. Keep that smile pretty and happy !
Oral hygiene is important for the overall well being and oral health issues could affect your overall health. And obviously, good oral hygiene is only possible through a good care routine. The list we have put together outlines 10 key changes you can make to your daily oral care routine and reap big rewards. If you are already following them, kudos !. If you are not , start ‘em now.
Smile Resolution #1: Brush regularly
While everyone knows the importance of brushing your teeth , understanding when ,how often and how long do your brush is important. If possible, brush your teeth after every meal.
If it is not possible to brush your teeth after each meal, make sure to thoroughly rinse your mouth so that there are no food particles left in your mouth. The left over food particles allow bacteria to grow leading to bad breath and other oral health issues including cavities. Another aspect of brushing is how long do your brush for. important aspect most overlook when brushing is how you brush and how long do you brush for .When you brush, don’t hurry through the process, but make sure you spend at least around 2 minutes to complete.
When brushing, make sure all surfaces of the teeth are covered and cleaned and you spend equal amount of time for all surfaces. If there are hard to reach areas, make sure you spend some extra time cleaning those areas. One helpful tip is to start using a timer when you brush to make sure you stick to the ~2 minute duration. Once it becomes a part of your routine, timer wont be necessary anymore.
Smile Resolution #2: Use the right products
We all are familiar with the different types, kinds and colors of toothpaste that is available. Most of them also have that one ingredient that makes it special than others. Same goes for toothbrushes as well. There are all sizes and kinds that are available – electric, battery operated, disposable, natural etc . Now the challenge is to find what you require – one that will fit your oral hygiene requirements. While it is safe to say that most of what is available in the market will work for you, talking with your dentist can help. Your dentist understands your oral health status and can recommend a solution what would be the most ideal for your oral care.
Smile Resolution #3: Your diet matters
Your diet can impact your oral health and plays an important role in keeping your teeth healthy and your smile looking good. Certain foods can damage your teeth’s enamel and encourage cavities. Foods with high sugar content increase the chances for new cavities and worsens existing cavities. Drinks like carbonated soda can also affect your oral health. While drinks like coffee and tea can affect the shade of your teeth and make it look more less bright. It is interesting to note that some of these foods could also have other negative health impacts. While we wont suggest you to avoid these food items completely, moderating these items will have long term health benefits
Smile Resolution #4: Healthy habits help in long run
Certain habits can impact your oral health and your overall health negatively. Smoking and chewing tobacco is one of the leading causes of oral cancer. As you are probably aware, these habits can cause other health issues as well. As any medical professional would advise , stay clear of any tobacco or smoking products. One of the lesser harmful effects of these habits is the staining of the teeth. With the advancement in teeth whitening options like Zoom, these stains can be cleared and the brightness of your smile restored.
Smile Resolution #5: Floss like you care
Toothbrush helps you to clean the surface of your teeth. According to American Dental Association (ADA), floss is a key tool to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Cleaning between teeth removes plaque that can lead to cavities or gum disease from the areas where a toothbrush can’t reach. The food particles that are stuck between the teeth and the gums cannot be cleaned using a toothbrush. That is where floss comes to the rescue.
If food particles remain between teeth, it can lead to gum inflammation and if left untreated it could end up in losing the impacted tooth.
Flossing is as important as brushing your teeth when it comes to keeping your teeth and gum healthy.
Food particles stuck between the teeth can help the growth of bacteria leading to gum diseases , plaque buildup and bad breath. There should not be any doubt when it comes to flossing. Flossing helps you to make sure your teeth and gums stay healthy. And your smile stays fresh.
Smile Resolution #6: Add mouthwash to your routine
A good addition to the daily brushing routine will be mouthwash. There are a lot of different variations that are available in the market and your dentist can help you choose one that will work the best for you given your oral health status. Mouthwash helps you to freshen your smile and also helps to kill bacteria that could cause bad breath. Mouthwash can reach every nook and corner of the mouth and flush out any remaining food particles to keep your mouth clean and give you a fresh feeling.
Smile Resolution #7: Hydrate
Drinking water to keep the body hydrated has multi faceted heath benefits . Keeping your body hydrated helps you with skin health, flushing body waste, keeping your body cool , better digestion and the list goes on and on.. When it comes to oral health, drinking water helps to form saliva and also helps to clear out the food particles in your mouth after a meal.
Drinking water regularly helps you to avoid craving for unhealthier alternatives like soda or other unhealthy snacks. Overall, keeping yourself hydrated makes you feel and look better.
Smile Resolution #8: Routine cleaning
Having your teeth cleaned regularly can help avoid dental health issues and stop any existing dental health issues from building up or spreading. Treating any oral health issue at the beginning will be a much more less painful, shorter and less expensive experience. As oral health issues spread and expand, it could lead to a more painful experience and even end up in loss of permanent tooth structure. Even with a good daily oral care routine, getting your teeth cleaned regularly by a professional helps to keep your teeth healthy and bright as it should be. While the required number of visits in a year will differ for every individual, your dentist can work with you to identify the right frequency.
Smile Resolution #9: You know you best
Having a good understanding of your oral health status is a very smart thing to do. As you go through your daily health care routine, examine your mouth regularly and if you see anything odd, consult with your dentist.
Smile Resolution #10: Don’t skip your date with your dentist
How often to visit the dentists depends on one’s oral health and overall health history. Once your dentist is familiar with your oral health statusand oral care requirements, he or she will be able to recommend how many number of visits per year would be ideal. And take advantage of these visits and learn about your oral health. Ask questions and your dentist will be happy to address any of your questions or concerns.
Dr. Xavier at Texan Smile is dedicated to using her education and expertise to provide the best health care possible to her patients and actively educate and promote the importance of developing healthy dental habits. We combine our experience and in-depth understanding of oral health to identify our patients goals and set them on a path to achieve their goal.
Texan Smile clinic is equipped with the latest equipment that puts customer comfort and health at the forefront while enabling our team to identify and provide the best care possible.
Why Texan Smile ?
Welcome to Texan Smile, where every smile counts. We are a new family and cosmetic dentistry in Sugar Land featuring a professional team, cutting-edge technology, a modern and convenient facility, and all the dental care you and your family will need. Located in Sugar Land, near the intersection of University Blvd. and LJ Parkway, we are easily accessible for all Sugar Land residents. We take a personalized approach by giving our patients attentive service in a serene and relaxed environment. At Texan Smile, we are honored to have the opportunity to be a part of your dental health journey.
We ensure all your questions are answered and the treatment plan we recommend for you will guarantee a better oral health outcome. Being a privately owned practice, we are able to put you and your well being in the focus rather than adhering to a corporate sales model or goals.We strive and aspire to be your trusted partner and to empower you to achieve complete oral health and cosmetic perfection through our quality services. If you are in search for a dentist who can provide you quality dental care and treat you like family, then Texan Smile is the perfect choice for you. We take pride in the quality of our service and we stand behind our name.
Whether you are looking for a routine dental check or perfecting your smile or trying to take care of a nagging tooth ache, you are always welcome at Texan Smile to come in for a free consultation. We offer a wide array of services to cater to all your oral health care and cosmetic requirements.
Understand the key differences between basic cleaning vs deep cleaning and what is ideal for you.
Deep Cleaning is a key tool in fighting and treating gum diseases. Periodontal disease or gum disease affects 50% US population older than 30. Aside from oral health, gum diseases can affect overall health. Research shows the direct link between gum disease and many systemic diseases like diabetes, heart disease etc. Research also suggests that treating gum disease can improve blood sugar control in diabetic patients.
When gum disease is left untreated, it will destroy the supporting structures of the teeth. The damages due to gum disease are permanent and in certain severe cases of gum disease, it could lead to loss of teeth. Diagnosing gum disease in the early stages and treating the condition to prevent the progression is critical to both oral and overall health.
Symptoms
Main symptoms of gum disease are bleeding gums, reddish swollen gums, bad breath, shifting teeth and mobility of teeth. It is worth noting that warning signs are not always present or can go unnoticed by patients.
Regular Vs. Deep Cleaning
During the routine dental visits, dentist can evaluate the periodontal status clinically and radiographically and determine if the patient is a candidate for basic cleaning or deep cleaning. For patients with deep periodontal pockets, inflamed gums, bone loss and tartar (calculus) below the gum line are candidates for deep cleaning (scaling and root planing).
Deep cleaning also known as Scaling and Root planing. It is recommended for patient with gum disease / periodontal disease. Scaling part involves removal of calculus, plaque and bacteria under the gum line with special instruments. Root planing helps to smoothen the rough surfaces of roots to prevent bacterial growth and plaque accumulation. This will promote reattachment of gum tissue to the root surface.
With only basic cleaning, such patients with gum disease will leave the gum disease untreated leading to additional complications and issues. If the patients continue to choose to under treat the periodontal disease, it will lead to the progression of the gum disease leading to severe damages to the natural tooth structure.
Cost
Due to insurance limitations, deep cleaning will incur more out of pocket charges than a basic cleaning. But in the long run, taking care of the gum diseases through deep cleaning will prove beneficial to maintain better oral health and avoid health complications and additional treatment costs in the future.
Do I need a Deep Cleaning?
Make sure you do not miss your routine visits to your dentist to ensure any oral health issues are diagnosed at the onset before it progresses.Schedule an appointment with Dr. Xavier at Texan Smile to complete an exam and diagnosis today.
Key to getting rid of bad breath is to understand the root cause for the problem.
Over the years of my practice, I have heard many patients asking how to get rid of bad breath. The key to tackling bad breath is to understand the root cause for the problem. Bad breath can be caused by a variety of reasons including poor oral hygiene, inadequate brushing and flossing, cavities, gum disease, dry mouth, smoking, consuming odor causing food and some systemic conditions.
Poor oral hygiene is one of most common causes of bad breath. Without regular brushing and flossing, the bacteria in your mouth increases which break down food, producing the smelly volatile sulfur compounds. After you have your meal or snacks, food particles that get lodged between your teeth can contribute to this and cause bad breath. If you don’t brush and floss after your meals, bacteria can work on these food remains and causes bad mouth odor. So brushing and flossing at least twice a day is recommended.
Irregularities on your tongue makes it easier for debris to collect and bacteria to thrive releasing sulfur compounds. Cleaning your tongue should be a part of your routine oral hygiene measure. You can use a tongue scraper or use your tooth brush itself to clean your tongue
Untreated cavities, gingivitis, deep pockets caused by gum disease, broken fillings, partially erupted wisdom teeth lodging food debris etc. are additional factors that can contribute to bad breath
Saliva aids in washing the bacteria away and has many antibacterial qualities too. It is important to maintain good salivary flow to flush the bacteria away and for a healthy mouth. Various reasons can cause dry mouth including certain medication. You can always ask your physician if there is a alternate medication to eliminate such side effects. Other options could be to sip water frequently or chew sugar free gum to stimulate salivation. There are prescriptions your dentist can provide to improve salivary flow. Keeping yourself well hydrated would also help to reduce the mouth odor.
Smoking is another major factor that causes bad mouth odor. Along with causing major health problems and periodontal diseases, smoking can also cause bad breath.
Dentists can help you identify the root cause of bad breath and offer recommendations and treatment to get rid of the bad breath for good. Make your appointment with Dr. Xavier at Texan Smile today to discuss more.
