Smiles of Memorial News

What You Need to Know About Periodontal Disease

September 25, 2021

Have you ever had sore or bleeding gums? Infection and inflammation of the gums, ligaments, and bones that surround your teeth create periodontal disease. You’re not alone if you’ve ever had irritated or bleeding gums. However, this does not imply that bleeding gums are normal or should be disregarded. Periodontal disease, if left untreated, can lead to major oral health issues. Understanding the causes of periodontal disease, what conditions or habits put you at risk, and how to prevent gum disease is a great first step toward having healthy and happy gums.

What is periodontitis?

Let us begin with an overview of periodontal disease. Periodontitis is a dangerous gum infection. Bacteria that have accumulated on your teeth and gums are to blame. Periodontitis, when it progresses, can cause bone and teeth damage. However, if periodontitis is treated early and proper dental hygiene practices are followed, the damage can be reversed.

What are the causes of Periodontal disease?

Our mouths are full of bacteria. These bacteria, combined with mucus and other particles, produce a sticky, colorless plaque on teeth all the time. Brushing and flossing aid in the removal of plaque. Plaque that is not removed can harden and produce tartar, which brushing will not remove. Tartar may only be eliminated by a dentist or dental hygienist during a professional cleaning.

There are several risk factors for gum disease, the most prominent of which is smoking. Smoking can also make gum disease therapy less effective. Diabetes, hormonal changes in girls and women, diabetes, drugs that reduce saliva flow, certain illnesses, such as AIDS, and accompanying medications, and hereditary vulnerability are all risk factors.

What are the symptoms of periodontitis?

The symptoms vary depending on the stage of the disease, however, they commonly include:

Gums that bleed when you brush or floss your teeth
Bad breath
Change in your teeth’s position or loose teeth
Receding gums
Gums that are red, sensitive, or swollen
Plaque or tartar buildup on your teeth
Chewing discomfort
Tooth loss
Foul taste in your mouth
The inflammatory response throughout your body

Treatment of Periodontal Disease

Find out more about periodontal or gum disease treatment. If you are diagnosed with periodontal disease, your treatment options will depend on the severity of your condition. Among these treatments are:

Root planing and scaling

Non-surgical treatments for gingivitis or the early stages of gum disease may be available to restore periodontal health. Scaling is a thorough cleaning process that eliminates plaque and tartar from your teeth both above and below the gumline. Root planing removes plaque and tartar from root surfaces, as well as rough regions that trap and retain bacteria. The gum tissue might begin to mend after the gums have been cleansed.

Gum surgery for periodontitis

If the periodontal pockets around your teeth get so deep that they are impossible to clean with normal at-home dental hygiene and a professional care routine, a pocket reduction operation may be a possibility. During this operation, the periodontist makes incisions in your gums to flap back the tissue, allowing wider access to the roots for more efficient scaling and root planing below the gum line and cleaning out the bacterial infection. This will allow the gum tissue to be reattached to the bone.

Gum graft surgery

If the periodontal disease worsens and the gums recede, the periodontist may prescribe surgery to restructure the gums or graft new tissue to cover exposed tooth roots. The periodontist uses gum tissue usually from the roof of your mouth to cover the root and protect your tooth from decay, bone loss, and more recession during this surgery.

We hope this blog has benefited you to know more about periodontal disease. Are you looking for the best periodontal treatment in Houston, TX? Contact Smiles Of Memorial to receive personalized dental care.

Top 4 Benefits of Dental Bridges

September 17, 2021

You are not alone if you have one or more missing teeth. Finding the correct replacement is essential for a confident smile, and dental bridges are one of the most popular options. A dental bridge is a fixed substitute that replaces one or more missing teeth in your mouth. Dental bridges are made to look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They are also custom-made for each patient. A dental bridge uses one or more artificial teeth to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth.

What is a dental bridge?

Before we proceed, here is an overview of dental bridges. If you have missing teeth, your dentist can use dental bridges to fix or bridge the gaps in your smile. A dental bridge is an artificial tooth that is kept in place by abutment teeth on either side of the gap. Pontic can be composed of a variety of materials, including gold, although they are commonly made of porcelain to blend in with your natural teeth.

Who requires a dental bridge?

Dental bridges might help if you have missing multiple teeth. The most common reasons for tooth loss include tooth decay, gum disease, and injury. You could have possibly been born with missing teeth due to a congenital condition. To get a dental bridge, you must have healthy teeth on both sides of the missing ones. If you’re searching for the best dental services in Houston, TX, visit Smiles Of Memorial.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Restore your smile:

You can’t place a price tag on a beautiful and healthy smile. Many patients experience feeling more confident following dental bridge operations. Have you ever felt self-conscious about your smile? By restoring your smile, dental bridges can improve your quality of life.

Improved chewing:

You may have difficulty or even pain eating your favorite meals after tooth loss. Pain might be produced by neighboring teeth moving into the open space. Food particles might also gather in the empty socket where your tooth once was and cause gum damage. We propose investing in dental bridge treatment to permanently relieve pain when eating.

Improve speaking:

You may have difficulties pronouncing some words or speak with a lisp if you have lost several teeth. To remedy these concerns, you must first address the tooth loss that caused your speech to deteriorate in the first place. Dental bridges aid in the resolution of speech problems caused by tooth loss.

Maintain the natural shape of your face:

Did you know that when you lose a tooth, your jawbone begins to degrade? The bone cells in your jawbone are stimulated by the roots of your teeth. Your jawbone begins to deteriorate if you do not receive this stimulation. Severe jawbone degradation can cause additional tooth loss and facial collapse, both of which impair the form of your face.

We hope our blog has helped you understand what dental bridges are and how they can benefit you. If you are looking for the best dental bridge service in Houston, TX, then book an appointment with Smiles Of Memorial today.

6 Types Of Dental Implants

August 16, 2021

Dental implants can be an effective solution to the problem of missing teeth. These implants are a result of the innovations in the field of modern dentistry. People choose to get implants over other teeth replacements due to the benefits offered. You might be surprised to know that this can also have a negative impact on your self-esteem and also make you feel awkward. There is nothing to worry about as you can solve such issues by just booking an appointment at a trusted dental clinic.

In this blog, our dentists at Smiles Of Memorial are going to talk about the different types of dental implants available. Special emphasis will be talking about the factors to consider when choosing a dental implant. So, go through the sections below to gain a clear understanding of dental implants and draw an end to all questions related to the topic.

What Are Dental Implants?

Before we get into the specifics of dental implants, we need to understand what they are. These implants look like natural tooth roots and can replace your teeth’ full root structure. Your dentist in Houston will attach them to your jawbone with a simple dental procedure. On top of that, the crowns are placed. Your dental implants will gradually integrate and become a part of your natural dental anatomy.

Different Types of Dental Implants

Dental implants can be of different types. You should always go for the one that meets your requirements. Implants can be categorized under two broad headings. They are:

Endosteal Implant

This is the most common type of dental implant used for treatment. The endosteal implant can be an alternative option for both removable dentures and bridges. Getting this kind of implant is absolutely safe and can yield excellent results.

Subperiosteal Implant

The process of the subperiosteal implant can be successfully completed within two appointments at a dental clinic. Subperiosteal implants are rarely used in today’s time. Their primary function is to hold dentures in place in patients with insufficient bone height.

Well, the types of dental implants can be also differentiated on the basis of the methods of the treatment. We have provided the types in the pointers below.

All-on-4 Dental Implants

Going for this kind of implant is applicable for people who have lost a number of teeth due to tooth decay. If this is the case with you, do consult your Houston dentist immediately.

Immediate Load Dental Implants

Going for immediate load dental implants can help you to walk out of the dental office with a new set of false teeth. So, you will never have to face the issues related to missing teeth anymore. What are you waiting for? Visit your dentist in Houston today!

Multiple Implants

You might think that the loss of numerous teeth might need full mouth replacement. But, getting multiple implants can resolve this problem with ease.

Single Tooth Implants

Loss of teeth can be caused due to various reasons. As the name suggests, this kind of implant is perfect for the ones who have lost a single tooth.

Now that you have gained a better understanding of the various types of implants, we hope that picking a particular option will not be a difficult task. Consult Smiles Of Memorial if you are looking for the best dental implants service in Houston TX. We can guide you through the process of selecting an ideal option that will meet your needs.

How To Brush Properly?

August 7, 2021

A good oral care routine is a sign of a healthy smile. We’re all aware that brushing and flossing on a regular basis is an essential part of such a routine. It should also be supplemented with regular dental cleanings. Brushing twice a day, however, will not protect you from decay if you do not know the proper brushing technique. Our dentists at Smiles Of Memorial have listed below the steps to master the art. Your Houston dentist has got your back!

The Different Stages of Brushing

Along with brushing, you must also know how to floss properly. Consult your Houston dentist to find out how! This will take your oral care game up a notch and you can enjoy the benefits throughout your life.

Choosing The Ideal Equipment

The right tool is essential for effective cleaning. In the case of a manual brush, you must seek the advice of a dentist. To get better access, choose a brush with soft bristles and a small head. Replace them every three months if the bristles begin to fray. Electric toothbrushes are the best option for people who suffer from limited dexterity and have difficulty brushing their teeth. You must also be mindful of the toothpaste you use. Choose one with fluoride for the best results.

The Outermost Exterior

Begin with the outermost surface of your teeth. Brushing should be done slowly and with great care. Use slow, circular movements to ensure you don’t miss any spots.

Correct Angle

While brushing, tilt the toothbrush at a forty-five-degree angle. Guide it around the gum line to ensure the elimination of plaque and tartar.

The Inner Surface

The inner surface is difficult to reach and is often overlooked when brushing. Plaque is most likely to pile up in these areas as well. Brush the internal surfaces back and forth while tilting your brush at the previously stated angle.

Chewing Surface

Don’t overlook your chewing surfaces. This is the most prone to plaque and tartar accumulation. Brush back and forth with slight pressure while holding the brush flat.

Brush Your Tongue

Don’t forget to brush your tongue as well. Your tongue can serve as a hotbed for harmful bacteria, making you prone to oral infections. It will also aid in the elimination of bad odors and help you to achieve a fresh breath. You can consult your dentist in Houston before choosing a mouthwash for yourself.

Rinse Your Mouth

Wait for a few moments after you’ve completed the entire process. Then, carefully rinse your mouth with water and spit out any excess toothpaste. You can also substitute mouthwash for the water. It is best to wait for a few minutes or the fluoride that you just used could also get washed away.

Twice A Day For Two Minutes

You can control the brushing process by using a timer. For a good maintenance, brush each surface for at least thirty seconds. Do this after you get out of bed in the morning and before you go to bed. We hope that these steps have helped you understand how to properly brush your teeth.

We hope this blog has helped you to understand the proper steps when it comes to brushing. Share this with your family and friends. Get in touch with us at Smiles of Memorial if you are looking for the best dental care services in Houston, TX.

What Happens Due To Missing Teeth?

July 25, 2021

Are you suffering from missing teeth? This is a very common condition and you could lose your teeth due to several reasons. However, missing teeth come with their own set of troubles. They can lower your self-confidence and also negatively impact your speech and diction. Thus it is essential to replace your missing teeth. Our dentists at Smiles of Memorial have provided you with a list of issues you could be suffering from due to teeth loss. If you face any of these then you must consult your Houston dentist without any delay.

What Dental Issues Can You Face Due To Missing Teeth?

You could suffer from tooth loss due to several reasons. It could be due to a lack of good oral hygiene or sustained injuries during an accident. Wondering what to do after suffering from missing teeth? Just get in touch with your dentist in Houston and figure out the dental issues you could be facing.

Difficulty In Eating

Our teeth assist us in properly chewing our food and ensuring proper digestion. Now when we lose our teeth, it affects our ability to chew properly due to which we can face nutritional deficiencies. Chewing becomes extremely difficult depending on the type of missing tooth. You might have to give up on your favorite food items to munch on. Additionally, chewing on hard food items could cause damage to the empty area. If you are facing such issues then you should get in touch with your Houston dentist immediately.

Decline In Confidence

Missing teeth can drastically alter your appearance. Most people tend to shy away from social gatherings and avoid smiling in public. Missing teeth cause your facial muscles to sag and makes you appear older than you normally are. This leads to low self-confidence and affects your relationships in your life.

Issues With Speech

Are you surprised to learn that losing a tooth can affect your ability to speak? Yes, our teeth play a huge role in our speech and diction. When you lose teeth, you may notice that certain words sound odd when you pronounce them. It may cause slurring and produce extra saliva which could lead to spitting during a conversation. This could create a dent in your self-confidence and lower your self-esteem.

Crooked Teeth

Teeth shifting can occur as a result of the gap left by tooth loss. The adjacent teeth may shift to space, beginning a cycle of teeth shifting. When one tooth begins to shift, the others follow suit. This results in a crowded mouth, which eventually results in a crooked smile. This can have a significant impact on your speech and eating habits. It also has an impact on your physical appearance and can alter your appearance. Overcrowding can also make it difficult to brush and floss regularly. This eventually leads to plaque buildup and harms your oral health. If you are having such problems, then you should visit your Houston dentist without any delay.

Decreased Bone Density

Your teeth help to protect and strengthen your jawbone. When you chew your food, you apply some pressure to it. This pressure helps in the maintenance of your bone density. Teeth loss causes atrophy, which ultimately reduces bone density. This could lead to other oral health complications. There are many treatment options for missing teeth and you can consult your dentist in Houston

We hope this blog helps to fix your issue of missing teeth. For the best missing teeth replacement options in Houston, TX, consult our dentists at Smiles of Memorial and enjoy the best dental care.

Why You Should Choose Dental Crowns?

July 8, 2021

Dental crowns also referred to as dental caps, are outer coverings that are placed over your teeth and act as a protective barrier. Your Houston dentist will ask you to use this appliance if you are suffering from a damaged tooth. They act as armor, shielding your fragile teeth from further damage. Our dentists at Smiles Of Memorial will tell you the reasons to opt for these dental caps.

What are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are a type of restorative dental device that is used to cover a destroyed or weak tooth. It acts as a cap, giving it the security it needs to regain its strength. It looks like your original teeth and conceals the damaged tooth to enhance your looks. They could be made of a variety of materials, including porcelain and even metal. Visit us at Smiles of Memorial if you are looking for the best dental crowns in Houston, TX.

Why Should You Choose Dental Crowns?

Now that we know what are dental crowns, let us find out why we should opt for these devices. Your favorite dentist in Houston has listed the reasons below for your understanding.

Large Fillings

Dental fillings are often used when there is a tiny cavity or the damaged area is comparatively smaller. The bigger the filling, the weaker your tooth structure becomes. This is due to the fact that the material used in dental fillings is not strong enough, and they may eventually break apart. In case of huge damage, it is best to use a series of dental crowns. Along with improving your looks, it will reduce the chances of further breakage. For more details, you can consult your Houston dentist.

Fractured Or Broken Tooth

If you have severely damaged teeth, you should consider dental crowns. It helps to keep the broken teeth safe until their condition improves. Dental crowns are also very strong and can withstand anything you bite into. They technically restore your chewing ability while also preventing additional pain and discomfort.

To Improve The Aesthetics

Many people suffer from low self-esteem as a result of the look of their teeth. Want to show off your smile again? Dental crowns will be your best friend. These crowns can hide any flaws you wish to conceal and completely transform the appearance of your mouth. They can be customized to your specifications, and the color can also be changed. You just need to discuss with your dentist in Houston and you are good to go.

Enamel Erosion

Even our tooth enamel is not immune to harmful bacteria. The acid produced by these harmful bacteria can corrode the enamel. This exposes your gums and dentin. This is the perfect condition for periodontal disease and other oral infections. A dental crown will help to remineralize your teeth without any further disruptions.

Recommended With Root Canals

Patients require a root canal for many reasons. Your Houston dentist typically performs it if there is no chance to save your tooth pulp. After a root canal, your tooth may become extremely vulnerable and require special care. This is why root canal procedures are usually followed by dental crown treatments, allowing your teeth to become stronger and more efficient.

We hope you have understood the reasons behind choosing dental crowns. Looking for the best dental crown treatments in Houston, TX? Then contact Smiles of Memorial to book an appointment with the best dentist in Houston.

Professional Dental Cleaning: Procedure, Cost & Benefits

June 18, 2021

A good oral care routine plays an important role in protecting your teeth from damage and decay. But is it enough? Well, regular brushing and flossing are extremely important for your oral health. But they are not effective against stubborn plaque and tartar. This is why professional dental cleanings are a must. Your dental care professional can reach areas where your regular toothbrush cannot reach.

What Happens In A Professional Dental Cleaning?

A professional dental cleaning service is very different from a teeth whitening service. Teeth whitening targets your tooth discoloration. Dental cleaning targets stubborn plaque and tartar accumulation in your oral cavity. This procedure has several steps. Dental cleaning usually starts with a thorough physical examination of your mouth and ends with a fluoride treatment.

How Much Is A Dental Cleaning?

Wondering how much is a dental cleaning? Well, dental cleaning cost usually depends on the condition of your oral cavity, your area of residence, and how much treatment you require. During your visits to the dental clinic, your mouth is considered in quadrants. Taking the factors mentioned into consideration, you might have to pay $100 or more for each quadrant. However, it is recommended to not worry about dental cleaning costs. Several dental insurance companies cover these cleaning procedures. Forget your worries about how much dental cleaning is and do not allow it to be a hindrance.

Why Are Professional Dental Cleanings Important?

Our dentists at Smiles Of Memorial have compiled a list to provide you with some clarity regarding the importance of professional dental cleaning procedures. Let us take a look at them.

Timely Diagnosis & Treatment

A cleaning procedure has several steps and phases. Initially, your Houston dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth physically. This step is followed by an X-Ray to ensure that nothing is missed out. These steps help to detect any abnormal outgrowths in your oral cavity. For instance, your dental care professional might find cysts or tumors that could be an early indication of oral cancer. Hence, these cleaning procedures help in the early diagnosis of oral health conditions that can save your life.

Acts As An Effective Preventive Measure

Plaque and tartar buildup can worsen the condition of your oral health. Occasional dental cleanings and dental check-ups can act as an effective preventive measure in such cases. Cleaning out your stubborn plaque can prevent the onset of bacterial infections and stop damage and decay.

Can Combat Periodontal disease

A thorough dental cleaning can reverse your gingivitis and prevent your periodontal disease from advancing. Poor oral hygiene is the leading cause of this disease. Hence, dental cleaning by your Houston dentist is important and should be incorporated into your oral care routine.

No More Halitosis

Stubborn plaque can lead to bad breath. Professional cleaning by your Houston Dentist can remove the plaque and give you a squeaky clean mouth in a jiffy. However, if your bad breath does not seem to go then you must consult a dental hygienist. It could be the sign of some underlying medical condition and might require immediate attention.

An Economical Alternative

Professional teeth cleaning can prove to be a viable economical alternative in the long run. Regular cleaning can act as a preventive measure and reduce your chances of suffering from teeth damage. Skipping your cleaning appointments might lead to dental complications where you might have to opt for expensive procedures and surgeries. Do not skip your cleaning appointments and you can save a few bucks!

Now that you know the importance of professional teeth cleaning, do not skip your cleaning appointments. Looking for the best dental cleaning service in Houston, TX? Book an appointment with us at Smiles Of Memorial and make the most of our dental care services today!

How To Floss Your Teeth Properly?

June 8, 2021

We are all aware of how important brushing and flossing are for our oral health. However, not knowing the correct technique can do more harm than good. Don’t worry because our dentists at Smile of Memorial have got your back! Your favorite Houston dentist has given you a step-by-step guide to help you learn the art of flossing.

What is flossing?

Did you know that food can also get stuck between your teeth? This is why flossing becomes important. Your toothbrush is not equipped to access those areas. Only dental floss can help to get rid of the debris. The process of removal of these remnants stuck between your teeth is known as flossing. Flossing regularly can reduce the chances of cavities and keep your pearly white smile intact!

Do You Floss Before Or After Brushing?

Trying to figure out the correct order of your oral care routine? Well, the order does not really matter according to the ADA. As long as you brush and floss your teeth regularly, you are good to go. However, many people tend to floss before brushing as it helps to loosen the food particles stuck in between the teeth.

How Often Should You Floss?

Several people are confused about how often you should floss. Well, flossing once every day is usually enough. However, some people are not satisfied with that. Consult your Houston Dentist to figure out the exact number of times you should floss in a day. If the problem persists then you can avail their wide range of services to fix the issue.

How To Floss?

Now that we have a brief overview of the definition and procedure of flossing, let us learn how to floss properly.

Pick The Correct Floss

Before performing the procedure you must choose the correct floss. You can opt for either a multifilament floss or a single filament floss. A multifilament cord is made of nylon. They break easily for people whose teeth are tightly packed. Monofilament cords, on the other hand, do not shed that easily and are ideal for tightly packed teeth. If you are facing issues with your regular dental floss, then you can try floss picks, water flossing, and other flossing appliances. Consult your Houston dentist to choose a device that is ideal for you.

Get The Length Right

You must get the correct length for a better grip. It is best to use a strand that is between eighteen to twenty-four inches. This will help you to achieve a squeaky clean mouth. But you must not worry if you have broken off a shorter piece. Just break more whenever required.

Wind The Strand

Wind the filament around the middle finger of one hand. Now you must wrap the rest around the middle finger of the opposite hand. You will be rolling up the used filament with this finger.

Rub the floss in between your Teeth

Hold the strands in a flexed manner and start rubbing them between your teeth. Remember to be extremely gentle throughout. Excessive pressure can damage the tissues and pave the way for tooth decay. Push the filament back and forth and avoid snapping it into the gum line.

Maintain The Correct Angle

It is very important to maintain the correct angle while flossing. As soon as the filament reaches the gum line, make a “C” shape. Gently push back and forth in between your gum and teeth. Repeat the process in the opposite direction as well.

Roll Up The Used Strand

Using your thumb, unroll a new portion of the dental floss. Roll up the used strand from one hand to the other before moving on to other areas of your mouth. Do not ignore the sides and the back of your teeth. This gives the best results and prevents bacterial infections.

Discard the used floss

Never reuse your old floss. Throw it away whenever you are done. An old and used strand harbors several harmful microbes and reusing them will cause bacterial infections. Just use a new dental filament whenever you are brushing the next day.

We hope this checklist has helped you to understand how to floss. Looking for the best dental care services in Houston, TX? Contact us today at Smiles Of Memorial and go for our top-notch dental care services.

Sedation Dentistry: A Brief Overview

May 27, 2021

The thought of visiting the dentist makes some people anxious and fearful. This is one of the many reasons cited for skipping dental appointments. However, this habit can do more harm than good and lead you to serious dental complications in the future. With the advancements in the world of dentistry, it has been possible to put patients at ease and provide them with a comfortable experience. Sedation dentistry has been a savior for many and helped patients get rid of their fears. It has become extremely popular and is used by dentists everywhere.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation Dentistry is associated with the usage of sedatives for patients during dental procedures. This helps them to have a relaxed experience in the dentist’s chair. It could be used for simple as well as invasive procedures. The intensity of sedation ranges between mild, moderate, and deep. It usually depends on the procedure that is being performed and also on the amount of dental anxiety experienced by the client.

What Are The Types Of Sedation Dentistry?

Now that we have a clear understanding of dental sedation, let us take a look at the various types of sedatives offered by dentists. This will help us to make more informed choices regarding this particular dental service.

Oral Sedation- It is a pill that you must consume an hour before the procedure. This is a form of conscious sedation that will enable you to answer your dentist’s questions with ease. On the other hand, you will feel no pain.
Laughing Gas- Nitrous oxide or laughing gas is administered through a mask placed over your nose. The intensity can be easily regulated by your dental care professional and the effects wear off as soon as the mask is removed.
Oraverse- It is an anesthesia reversal agent that helps to remove the effects of the sedative faster than usual. It helps to get rid of the numbness and you can go back to your daily activities in the blink of an eye.

Advantages Of Dental Sedation

There are several benefits associated with this field of dentistry, some of which have been listed below.

Say Goodbye To Dental Anxiety

Dental sedatives are a holy grail for nervous clients. Fear and paranoia stop several patients from receiving the care they need. Well, with dental sedation you can bid goodbye to your dental anxieties. Relax and have a peaceful experience in the dentist’s chair.

No More Gagging

Sometimes dental hygienists have to probe deep within the oral cavity. This usually results in a gag reflex and hinders the smooth flow of dental work. It can also cause a lot of damage to the client. Sedation can solve the problem of gag reflex and dentists can work with ease.

Painless Procedures

The desire for a pain-free dental experience gave birth to sedation dentistry. Some people are scared of dental tools and stay far away from dental clinics. The brain does not register any pain stimuli while on sedation. Hence, procedures are practically painless and hassle-free.

Faster Dental Procedures

Sedation dentistry comes in handy for dental hygienists as well. Putting the patient at ease results in fewer disruptions. Hence, the procedure can be performed faster and chances of any complications are greatly reduced. The patient won’t move around in the chair which also results in highly efficient dental work.

We hope this blog will help you conquer all your fears from this moment onwards. Do not let your anxiety stop you from attending to your dental concerns. If you are looking for the best quality dental care services in Houston, TX then book an appointment with us at Smiles Of Memorial today!

Do I Really Need a Dental Filling? (Part 2)

May 17, 2021

Last month, we wrote a blog post about fillings. More specifically, about do you really need to get a dental filling. If you missed it, go back and read part one. This week we will cover the hidden causes of tooth decay.

So, What Are The Hidden Causes of Tooth Decay?

Could you be putting your smile at risk of getting cavities without even knowing it? Even if you brush daily, floss often, and go to your regularly scheduled appointments, you could be a ticking time bomb. Here are a few risk factors that you may need to talk about at your next appointment!

Tooth Decay and Sports Drink or Diet Soda

Do you work out regularly and eat like a health nut? Be sure you are hydrating the right way. Sports drinks and diet sodas contain hidden sugars and sweeteners that coat your teeth every time you drink them. When consumed regularly, they can lead to extensive decay no matter how good your oral hygiene is.

Tooth Decay and Chewing Gum

“Sugar-free” gum isn’t necessarily good for your teeth. Unless it contains Xylitol, an ingredient that can help your teeth rel plaque, other sugar alternatives may pose a risk to your smile. Bubble gum is especially dangerous, and should only be given to children in very limited quantities.

Tooth Decay and Bottled Water

Did you know that most bottled waters don’t contain appropriate levels of fluoride? Tap water does. If you find that you’re only drinking water that comes in a bottle off the shelf, it’s time to do a bit of detective work. You might be depriving your smile (and bones) of essential fluoride minerals that they need to start strong.

Tooth Decay and Xerostomia (aka Dry Mouth)

Whether it’s caused by allergies, cancer treatment, or prescription medication, dry mouth is a huge risk factor for developing cavities. Why? Because there isn’t saliva to naturally cleanse or wash your teeth throughout the day. Instead, acids or bacteria hang out over the surface of your enamel without being disturbed…allowing them to work against your teeth even longer.

Do any of these sources hit close to home? If so, schedule an exam with us here at Smiles of Memorial in Houston, TX and we will make sure you’re cavity-free!