Why do I need to floss my teeth?

Dental floss is able to reach areas between your teeth and below the gum line where the bristles of your toothbrush cannot. These are areas where bacteria exist which cause odor, inflammation, and bone loss. You should floss once a day along with brushing your teeth and tongue twice a day. In some people, other products that reach between the teeth (like a Waterpik) may actually be more effective than flossing. Check out these tips on how to properly floss your teeth.

What causes cavities?

Cavities are damage to the surface of the tooth caused by acids, which can come from certain bacteria or from foods and drinks that we consume. Sugar is a food source for these bacteria, which then produce acid. Proper home care is necessary to prevent decay, as is avoiding acidic and sugary foods and drinks (some candies and gums, citrus fruits, diet and regular soda, energy drinks, “sports” drinks, fruit juices, etc.). These types of products can be enjoyed occasionally and in moderation by most people, but care should be taken to clean the mouth after consumption. A dry mouth, caused by a variety of factors including many medications, can also be a risk factor for developing cavities.

How do you get rid of yellow teeth?

If you have yellow or discolored teeth, it could be due to a number of habits such as drinking coffee or tea, smoking, poor dental hygiene, or a sugary diet. For professional teeth whitening, we offer services that will brighten your smile and enhance your appearance. When you sign up for a consultation, Dr. Foote will examine your teeth and create a treatment plan that will give you the best results.

Why do my gums bleed?

Bleeding gums are typically associated with gingivitis, or gum disease, which is usually caused by certain bacteria. With inflammation, the gums will swell, be tender, and bleed when touched. Fortunately, this is usually easily reversible with a proper cleaning and home care. Untreated, it can lead to periodontal disease, which is loss of connective tissue and bone around the teeth. This is a common cause of tooth loss. There are other, more serious diseases which can also cause gums to bleed.

Do I need to use a mouth rinse?

Unless there is a specific therapeutic reason for a rinse (odor, surgery, dry mouth, high rate of decay), rinses are usually not beneficial. Many rinses are actually acidic and/or alcohol-containing, which can actually be detrimental to oral health.

Why are my teeth sensitive?

Tooth sensitivity can be caused by cavities, an acidic oral environment (due to certain foods and drinks or a dry mouth), clenching or grinding the teeth, loss of enamel, exposed root surface, use of whitening or tartar control toothpaste, orthodontic tooth movement, and other causes.

How much do dental implants cost?

The cost of dental implants varies depending on the patient's condition and the amount of work needed to replace lost teeth. Schedule a consultation or contact our office to receive an accurate estimate based on your needs.

Why should I visit the dentist if I’m considering taking a medication for osteoporosis?

Use of certain medications used to treat osteoporosis can result in significant problems with the jaw bone. It is important to have a thorough dental examination and healthy mouth prior to and during treatment with these medications.

What causes canker sores and cold sores?

Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) are painful sores in the mouth which can result from trauma, irritation, stress, allergies, medications, heartburn, acidic foods, ingredients in toothpaste, immune system problems, and other causes. They are not contagious and typically go away in 10-14 days. Other than treating the pain or perhaps using certain lozenges, there is not much that can be done to shorten the duration of the sore. In very serious cases, certain medications may be prescribed. Cold sores (herpes simplex virus) may appear similar to canker sores and usually go away in less than two weeks. Unlike canker sores, cold sores can be contagious. There can be common causes that the two share and medication can be used at the very beginning of a cold sore outbreak in order to prevent the sore. Once the sore is present, these medications typically do not significantly shorten the duration or severity of the sore.

Why do I need to get my wisdom teeth removed?

In many cases, there is simply not enough room for wisdom teeth to come in straight. If teeth are not straight or are impacted (trapped below gums and/or bone), they cannot be properly cleaned and can lead to infection, pain, swelling, and bone loss. They can also damage the roots of nearby teeth. In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth may lead to cyst or tumor formation.

How often do I need to have my teeth cleaned if I have gum disease?

People with gum disease typically require more care at home and at the dental office. This is not necessarily due to improper or ineffective cleaning or neglect, but rather to the type of bacteria, rate of plaque and tartar build-up, and differences in one's immune response. Once teeth are cleaned thoroughly in a dental office, those bacteria which cause a breakdown in connective tissue and bone have been shown to repopulate the mouth in eleven weeks; therefore, people with a periodontal disease should see their dentist every three months.

Why do I need x-rays?

X-rays (or radiographs) are essential in evaluating the oral condition, including the jaws, teeth, and the bone that supports them. Although “check-up” x-rays every year are usually adequate in order to diagnose disease in a timely manner (resulting in more conservative treatment), some people may not need them as frequently. A panoramic or other x-rays may be used less frequently in order to view a bigger area and diagnose other problems. Dental x-rays result in negligible exposure to radiation, and in offices which utilize digital x-rays, it’s much less.

Why are my dentures loose?

Loose dentures can be due to a lack or loss of bone over time, wearing down of the biting surfaces of the teeth, or changes in forces applied to the teeth. Relining or remaking dentures may be necessary, and utilizing implants to help hold dentures in place is also very useful and predictable.

Why do I need a crown?

A dental crown is typically used in order to protect and rebuild a tooth when it has sustained significant damage due to decay, fracture or a crack. Some teeth with root canals may also require crowns in order to reinforce them. There are a variety of materials that can be successfully used to make crowns. While smaller restorations (fillings) are also commonly used to restore teeth, they cannot always be used to recreate ideal form or to protect a tooth from normal forces over time.

Why do I need a root canal?

A root canal is typically used to treat infections inside the tooth (the pulp). These infections (or death of the pulp) can result from deep decay, trauma, and cracks. It is a process of cleaning, shaping, disinfecting, and sealing the inside (the chamber and canals) of the tooth. The tooth must be then restored with a filling or crown after this procedure in order to prevent leakage or breakage.

Why is CariFree’s CTx3 rinse more beneficial than an over-the-counter option?

The CTx3 rinse contains a perscription level of fluoride, anti-cavity, and an alkaline pH that helps to buffer acidity that causes decay. Over-the-counter rinses to do not have the same level of fluoride and are often acidic. Also, the may contain alcohol, which can irritate soft tissues and dry the mouth.

Who is the CariFree CTx2 spray beneficial for?

The CariFree CTx2 spray is beneficial for those with a dry mouth due to age, medications, or other reasons. The spray provides comfort, stimulates salivary flow, and has xylitol.

What toothpastes do you carry?

We carry Clinpro, a toothpaste made by 3M with a prescription level of fluoride and has a low relative dental abrasivity (RDA). We also carry Flouridex, a toothpaste free of SLS.

Are the Sonicare electric toothbrushes more effective than manual toothbrushes?

Our Sonicare electric toothbrushes tend to be more effective in removing plaque than a manual counterpart.

What are the benefits of Waterpiks?

Waterpiks are extremely effective in removing plaque and debris from in between teeth and below the gum line. Waterpiks often go beyond what floss can do. Click here to learn more about the products we carry

Do I need my wisdom teeth removed?

If your teeth come in straight and you can easily clean them regularly, then you may keep your wisdom teeth. However, wisdom teeth removal is common due to complications such as limited jaw space, impacted teeth, cyst or tumor formation, and more. Read more to learn whether wisdom teeth removal is the right treatment for you.

Why do people have to get their wisdom teeth removed?

People usually have to have their wisdom teeth removed because their isn’t enough space on the jaws to keep them, or if the teeth are impacted or angled in a way that makes them too difficult to clean.

Does everyone have to have their wisdom teeth removed?

No, If there is enough space on the jaw, and the teeth come in straight, an individual may not have to remove their wisdom teeth.

When should wisdom teeth be removed?

In removing wisdom teeth around the ages of 16-22, one can generally avoid structural damage and has the best chance of healing without problems. Click here to learn more about your wisdom teeth

How does dental insurance differ from health insurance?

Usually, after a required deductible is met for that year, the plan will cover a certain percentage of allowed procedures up to a yearly maximum. The rate of coverage is an agreement between you (or your employer), and the insurance company. Click here to learn more about dental insurance

How severe of a problem are cracked teeth?

Cracked teeth can range from being superficial with little to no symptoms, to being so extensive that removal of the tooth is required. Generally speaking, cracks always worsen, but the rate of this progression can vary.

How are cracked teeth caused?

Large fillings, unrestored and unworn teeth, and habits such as a strong bite, ice chewing, and repeated cycling of hot and cold over the years can all lead to the cracking of a tooth.

Will I need a crown or onlay if I have a cracked tooth?

A crown or onlay may be required if we are unable to completely remove a crack and place a filling.

Will I need a root canal if I have a cracked tooth?

If we are unable to fill a crack, and a tooth has become symptomatic to temperatures or pressures, a root canal may be required. If a crack extends below the bone and causes bone loss or inflammation, a tooth removal and replacement option such as an implant, bridge, or partial denture may be necessary. Click here to learn more about cracked teeth

Why are my teeth sensitive?

Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common complaints that I hear about. The causes are many: decay, wear, heavy plaque, tooth grinding, unstable bite and root exposure are a few. It is important to diagnose the cause of the sensitivity in order to make sure that the cause of the symptom doesn’t get worse and to make sure that you can achieve comfort. A common cause for tooth sensitivity is abrasive toothpastes. A low-abrasive toothpaste is good to use so that you can keep your teeth comfortable and not wear away tooth structure. Here is a list of various toothpastes based on their relative dentin abrasivity (RDA): Very Low Abrasive 04 Toothbrush with plain water 07 Straight baking soda 08 Arm & Hammer Tooth Powder 15 Weleda Salt Toothpaste 18 CTx4 Gel 30 Elmex Sensitive Plus 30 Weleda Plant Tooth Gel 35 Arm & Hammer Dental Care 37 Sensodyne ProNamel Low Abrasive 40 Weleda Children’s Tooth Gel 42 Arm and Hammer Metadent Advanced Whitening 42 Arm and Hammer Peroxicare 45 Weleda Calendula Toothpaste 45 Oxyfresh 48 Arm & Hammer Dental Care Sensitive 49 Arm & Hammer Peroxicare Tartar Control 49 Tom’s of Maine Sensitive 52 Arm & Hammer Peroxicare Regular 53 Rembrant Original 54 Arm & Hammer Sensitive Whitening 54 Arm & Hammer Sensitive Freshening 54 Arm & Hammer Sensitive Multi-Protection 54 Arm & Hammer Complete Care Stain Defense 57 Tom’s of Maine Children’s 62 Super Smile 63 Rembrant Mint 65 Arm & Hammer Complete Care Plus Enamel Strengthening 68 Colgate Regular 70 Colgate Total 70 Arm & Hammer Advance White Sensitive 70 Colgate 2-in-1 Fresh Mint Medium Abrasive 78 Biotene Gentle Dry Mouth 79 Sensodyne 80 Aim 83 Colgate Sensitive Maximum Strength 91 Aquafresh Sensitive 93 Tom’s of Maine Regular 94 Rembrant Plus 95 Crest Regular 95 Oxyfresh with Fluoride 97 Oxyfresh Powder High Abrasive 100 Colgate Optic White 101 Natural White 103 Mentadent 103 Arm & Hammer Sensation 104 Sensodyne Extra Whitening 106 Colgate Platinum 106 Arm & Hammer Advance White Paste 107 Crest Sensitivity Protection 110 Closeup Paste/Gel 110 Colgate Herbal 113 Aquafresh Whitening 117 Arm & Hammer Advance White Gel 117 Arm & Hammer Sensation Tartar Control 120 Close-Up with Baking Soda 120 Colgate Baking Soda Paste 124 Colgate Whitening 125 Colgate Sensitive Pro Relief, Enamel Repair 130 Crest Pro Health 130 Crest Extra Whitening 133 Ultrabrite 144 Crest MultiCare Whitening 145 Ultra Brite Advanced Whitening Formula 145 Colgate Baking Soda & Peroxide Whitening Harmfully Abrasive 150 Pepsodent 165 Colgate Tartar Control 168 Arm & Hammer Dental Care PM Fresh Mint 176 Nature’s Gate Paste 200 Colgate 2-in-1 Tartar Control/ Whitening or Icy Blast/Whitening 200 Crest White Vivid 260 Ultrabrite Advanced Whitening

Some form of false teeth has been in existence for centuries. Still, thanks to advances in dental hygiene and dentistry, far more people can keep their original teeth much longer. If you require dentures, you will be happy to know they have vastly improved. Conventional complete dentures are removable prostheses made of acrylic resin. They can replace all of the upper and/or lower teeth. Conventional partial dentures are removable prostheses made of acrylic resin and metal, which replace upper and/or lower teeth segments.

Why Do People Need Dentures?

Obviously, without proper dental hygiene and regular dentist visits, your teeth and gums will not remain healthy. In fact, gum disease, if left untreated, can be one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Tooth decay due to cavities is another reason people lose teeth. Teeth are necessary for chewing and breaking down food. Without teeth, everyday activities such as talking, smiling, eating, and drinking would be problematic. As a result, when a person loses teeth, they lose the ability to live a normal life. To have a better appearance, digest food properly, and speak clearly, dentures are necessary.

What Are Alternatives To Conventional Removable Dentures?

Gone are the days when Grandpa took out his “teeth” and set them in a glass on the sink. Today, if you are missing all of your teeth, dental implants can be used to anchor a prosthesis temporarily or permanently. If you are missing some of your teeth, dental implants or existing teeth can be used to support a permanent bridge. Dental implants replace teeth, providing a healthy foundation for permanent or removable restorations. If cared for properly, dental implants will serve as a permanent solution for missing teeth.

What Are The Advantages of Permanent vs. Removable Options?

There are several advantages to choosing dental implants as alternatives to dentures. Permanent, or fixed options, allow you to chew more efficiently. In turn, chewing more effectively aids your digestive system. People want an attractive, confident smile. By having permanent dentures, you have the security of knowing the prosthesis won’t slip or come out unexpectedly. A permanent solution gives you self-assurance when smiling, laughing, and talking. Plus, you won’t have to use messy adhesives to keep your dentures in place! Furthermore, keeping some teeth or placing dental implants helps to maintain bone and prevent jaw shrinkage. The shape of your mouth and smile look natural.

Where Do You Find Permanent Dentures?

Start by talking with Dr. Foote about your need for dentures. Learn about dental implant procedures and the benefit of choosing a permanent solution.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants replace tooth roots with metal, screwlike posts, and missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and function like real ones. The “roots” are made out of titanium much like hip or knee implants. Like a crown, the prosthetic tooth is created specifically for you out of natural-looking porcelain. Once the implants are surgically placed in your jawbone, the bone will grow around the implant to fuse together. Unlike dentures, implants keep your teeth stable and you don’t have to remove them for nightly cleaning. They can be used in both the upper and lower jaws, and will never decay like regular teeth.

Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?

Patients of all ages have chosen implants to replace one tooth or more. Generally, if you’re healthy enough to go through oral surgery, you are a good candidate for implants. By consistently taking care of your dental hygiene, your jaw and remaining teeth should also be strong enough. Some of the issues that might prevent you from getting implants are: A small jawbone structure that won’t allow room for the implant Smoking You’re not willing to give the time it takes to put implants in place You have a health condition that doesn’t allow your bones to heal properly Your teeth and gums are in poor condition due to improper oral hygiene

What is the process to get implants?

Getting implants is a longer process than having dentures made. To begin with, the dentist surgically places the implant in your jaw. For the implant and jaw to fuse together, it’s essential to wait anywhere from 3 to 6 months before completing the process. In the second step, a post is added to the implant. Before the final step of attaching the dental crown, the gum tissue around the post needs time to heal. Once healed, the dentist will create a crown that matches the size, shape, and color of the original tooth. The final step is to attach it to the implant.

What Are The Benefits of TMJ Treatment?

ALLEVIATES PAIN Chronic pain causes fatigue leading to sleep disorders. The pain impacts your entire physical and emotional well-being. Left untreated, TMD can lead to migraines, dizziness, and fibromyalgia. ENJOY EATING AGAIN Obviously, constant pain in your jaw joints and muscles affects your eating habits. You might avoid certain foods that are hard or chewy or begin experiencing irritable bowel syndrome due to a different diet. PROTECT YOUR DENTAL HEALTH Stress, anxiety, and tension often make TMD and chronic teeth grinding appear together. Grinding your teeth can wear down tooth enamel and lead to cracked or fractured teeth which require repair. REDUCE HEARING COMPLICATIONS Joint inflammation can damage the auditory nerves possibly causing hearing loss. Plus, TMD can lead to tinnitus or constant ringing in your ears, numbness, and earaches. IMPROVE YOUR OVERALL MENTAL HEALTH Chronic pain, fatigue, headaches, and the inability to eat certain foods can all lead to emotional exhaustion. As these and other symptoms continue, you can begin a downward spiral into depression.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants replace tooth roots with metal, screwlike posts, and missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and function like real ones. The “roots” are made out of titanium much like hip or knee implants. Like a crown, the prosthetic tooth is created specifically for you out of natural-looking porcelain. Once the implants are surgically placed in your jawbone, the bone will grow around the implant to fuse together. Unlike dentures, implants keep your teeth stable and you don’t have to remove them for nightly cleaning. They can be used in both the upper and lower jaws, and will never decay like regular teeth.

Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?

Patients of all ages have chosen implants to replace one tooth or more. Generally, if you’re healthy enough to go through oral surgery, you are a good candidate for implants. By consistently taking care of your dental hygiene, your jaw and remaining teeth should also be strong enough. Some of the issues that might prevent you from getting implants are: A small jawbone structure that won’t allow room for the implant Smoking You’re not willing to give the time it takes to put implants in place You have a health condition that doesn’t allow your bones to heal properly Your teeth and gums are in poor condition due to improper oral hygiene

How Is Gingivitis Treated?

Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss? If so, you might have a common form of periodontal disease known as gingivitis. It’s caused by plaque and tartar that have accumulated on your teeth, causing inflamed or bleeding gums.

What Are Dental Implants?

If you have damaged or missing teeth, dental implant surgery can be used to replace tooth roots with metal, screwlike posts, and prosthetic teeth. To have implant surgery, your jawbone must be fully developed and stable. Sometimes it’s necessary to have a bone graft if your jawbone cannot hold the implant. Once your jaw is stabilized, the implant is added. It takes time for the bone to heal and grow around the implant so they can fuse together. When healing is complete, an abutment (the connector) is added and a natural-looking porcelain prosthetic tooth is placed over the top. If done properly, the entire process can take a few months from start to finish.

Because implants are made of metal and porcelain, they will never decay. You also won’t feel any sensation at the “roots” such as hot or cold because an implant doesn’t have nerves. Although implant surgery requires either local anesthesia, general anesthesia, or sedation, the effects aren’t long-lasting. You may experience swelling of your gums or face, pain at the implant site, or minor bleeding immediately after surgery.

Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Teeth?

We all want those pearly whites, and for good reason! A smile is often the first thing we notice about someone new. With certain foods/drinks, age, or other reasons - your teeth may need a bit of help when it comes to staying white and fresh. That’s very normal! You may have experimented with multiple whitening methods and seen improvements in your smile - but wonder if any forms of teeth whitening cause damage? There is a downside to certain types of whitening methods. Keep reading to learn which ones!

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

There are two main types of stains: extrinsic and intrinsic teeth stains. Extrinsic stains are on the surface of your teeth while intrinsic stains reside within and beneath the tooth enamel, which is commonly caused by… Aging Defects within the tooth Use of certain antibiotics during tooth development Smoking The right kind of teeth whitening works to restore discolored or stained teeth to or beyond their natural shade. While many over-the-counter products are popular and work to some extent, professional whitening is way more effective and a quicker method. A professional teeth whitening procedure is the most commonly requested type of cosmetic dentistry with a fairly simple process. It will greatly improve the whiteness of your smile and boost your confidence!

What are the Different Teeth Whitening Options?

Everyone wants a whiter smile, no matter who you are. Whether you want to go one shade whiter or many shades, there are a plethora of different types of teeth whitening options out there. So which one should you choose? For the best advice, talk to Dr. Foote or your hygienist about options for enhancing your smile.

Dental implants: WHAT ARE THEY?

Dental implants can provide a better alternative to dentures or bridges. An implant is essentially a titanium screw that is surgically implanted into the bone underneath your gums. Once the implant has healed, it becomes an anchor for a replacement tooth or other prosthesis, providing a secure and permanent solution for tooth loss. An implant fuses with the bone and acts as a foundation to provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth. Unlike dentures or bridgework, dental implants become a part of you just like your original teeth.

Why Dental Implants?

Because of the permanent and secure nature of implants, they can provide many advantages over dentures or bridges.

A Better Fit for You

First, because implants can be utilized on a tooth-by-tooth basis, it allows you to maintain better oral health by not disturbing healthy teeth. Implants also allow the replacement tooth or teeth to match your existing teeth, creating a more natural look and feel.

Peace of Mind

The permanent nature of implants also gives you more confidence and ease of overall care compared to dentures or bridges. Dentures can slide around or become loose, creating irritation and making you lose confidence in your eating habits, and even affecting your normal speech pattern. Additionally, dentures require more care, including daily removal and applying adhesives.

Bridgework can require less care than dentures but relies on surrounding teeth for structural support, putting greater stress on existing teeth. Implants on the other hand, when properly cared for, can be a permanent solution to tooth loss, restoring your confidence in your smile, and allowing you to continue to enjoy your favorite foods.

Long-Term Benefits of Dental Implants

While the success of implant surgery can vary depending on the location of the implant and your overall oral health, the average rate of successful implant procedures is 98%. In order to allow for proper healing, the process for dental implants can involve multiple appointments over a span of several months, but the result is replacement teeth that can bring you confidence and oral health for years to come.

Contact Us to Schedule

Ready to learn more about how dental implants could improve your smile? Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.