Schedule a Checkup This Spring

The Easter bunny is well on his way, and if you have kids, or like to indulge yourself, make sure that you schedule an appointment with your dentist before or after Easter to make sure that your teeth and gums have not been affected.

Your dentist explains that regular checkups can prevent tooth decay and determine if you and your kids are brushing the right way.

The American Dental Association explains that you should have your teeth and gums examined every six to twelve months, even more so if you or a member of your family has a history of gum disease. Gingivitis and periodontal disease can easily reoccur if it is not kept in check.

During your dental checkup, your dentist will start by cleaning your teeth while checking for gum disease and dental caries. If either is detected your dentist will explain what needs to be done to fill the cavities or take care of your gingivitis or periodontal disease. Your dentist will also take digital images and possible x-rays along with additional diagnostic procedures.

One of the most important parts of your dental examination is an oral cancer screening. In the United States alone, oral cancer is the most dangerous form or cancer killing more people than cervical or skin cancer combined every year.

During your oral cancer screening, your dentist will visually inspect your tongue, the inside of your cheeks and your gums to make sure there are no signs of lumps, bumps, or lesions. Your dentist will also perform a manual palpation along with utilizing the latest in oral cancer detection that could include advanced oral cancer screening systems that actually visualize any abnormalities in the tissues of your upper throat, mouth, tongue, and lips. To make sure that you are as healthy as possible be sure and request an oral cancer screening during your next dental checkup.   

After your oral cancer screening and dental checkup is complete, your dentist will discuss your oral hygiene habits including your diet. If needed, proper brushing and flossing techniques may also be demonstrated. Your dentist will also talk about other lifestyle factors that may affect your overall oral health.

This spring take care of your teeth and gums and schedule a comprehensive dental checkup with your dentist as the Easter Bunny may well bring more than a basket of sweets. Call or click now. 

What To Do in a Dental Emergency

When it comes to sports, whether recreational or professional one of the biggest things players have to deal with are tooth and mouth accidents and now that spring is just around the corner, anyone who plays an individual or competitive sport could be at risk.

Your dentist explains that over 50 percent of all children under the age of 12 in the United States will have some sort of head or tooth injury. The majority of those injuries will occur from a fall, a fight, or a sporting injury. Most head and tooth injuries could have been prevented with a custom made sports mouthguard. According to the American Dental Association, the three types of mouthguards available, stock, boil and bite and custom made will all do the best they can at protecting your mouth and teeth, but because the mouthguards made by your dentist are molded to your teeth and gums they will offer better protection.

If happens, there are some things you can do before you get to the dentist’s office.

If you knock out a tooth, keep the tooth moist and try to stop the bleeding. If you can, try and push the tooth back in. If this is impossible, place the teeth between your cheek and your gums or in a bowl of milk. If the tooth is intact, it is quite possible that it can be saved. You can also purchase a tooth preservation product that carries the American DentalAssociation Seal of Acceptance.

If you have cracked your tooth, rinse immediately with a warm water rinse before placing cold compresses on your face to keep the swelling down.

Clean the area with water if you have bitten your lip or tongue or if it was accidently bitten on the playing feel. Apply a cold compress and see your doctor as quickly as possible.

Toothaches can be helped by rinsing the area with warm water to keep it free from bacteria and food particles. Use dental floss and a drop or two of oil of cloves to help deaden the pain. Never put aspirin on your gums or your teeth.

For more information regarding dental emergencies, call or click and schedule an appointment with your dentist today.