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Smiles of Memorial News

Know The Prominent Benefits Of Using Mouth Guards

December 11, 2021

Mouthguards are protective coverings worn over the teeth that are frequently used to prevent teeth from harm caused by teeth grinding and when participating in sports.

What Are The Types Of Mouthguards Available?

Preformed and ready to wear, stock mouth protectors are available. They are reasonably priced and are available at most sporting goods and retail stores. However, little can be done to improve their fit; they are cumbersome, obstruct respiration and communication, and offer little or no protection. Boil and bite mouth protectors are also available at various sports goods retailers and may provide a more secure fit than standard mouth protectors. The thermoplastic material used to make the “boil and bite” mouthguard is abrasion-resistant. It is softened in hot water and then placed in the mouth, where it is molded around the teeth with finger and tongue pressure.

Custom-fitted mouthguards are created and manufactured individually in a dental office or a professional laboratory, following your dentist’s instructions. 

Who Requires the Use of a Mouth Guard?

Mouthguards should be worn by everyone, children or adults, who participate in contact sports such as football, boxing, soccer, ice hockey, basketball, lacrosse, or field hockey. Even people who participate in noncontact sports (such as gymnastics) or recreational activities (such as skateboarding or mountain biking) that offer a risk of mouth injury might benefit from wearing a protective mouthguard.

A nocturnal bite plate or bite splint should be developed to avoid tooth damage in adults and children who grind their teeth at night.

Why Should You Wear a Mouthguard While Participating in Sports?

Because accidents can occur during any physical activity, the benefit of wearing a mouthguard while participating in sports is that it can help reduce the chance of mouth-related injuries to the lips, tongue, and soft tissues of your mouth. Additionally, mouth guards prevent chipped or broken teeth, nerve damage to a tooth, and even tooth loss.

Is it permissible for me to use a mouthguard if I wear braces?

Yes. Because a facial injury may damage braces or other fixed appliances, a correctly fitted mouthguard may be essential for individuals who wear braces or have fixed bridgework. Your dentist or orthodontist can recommend the mouth guard that best protects your individual dental work. A critical reminder: avoid wearing orthodontic retainers or any other removable appliance when participating in contact sports or leisure activities that place your mouth at risk of harm. Invisalign trays are an exception, as they can frequently be worn during sports, sometimes in conjunction with mouth protection. If you are wearing Invisalign trays and participating in sports, consult your dentist to determine if you should wear them or not and how you should wear them.

Here Are A Few Benefits of Mouthguards 

Protect Teeth from Damage

Teeth grinding at night might result in severe dental problems. Additionally, teeth begin to deteriorate. The risk of root canal infection increases when enamel erodes. Further, this results in cavities, pain, and sensitive teeth. A sports guard saves teeth from injury by avoiding teeth clenching during sleeping. It quickly restores worn-down and chipped teeth. Assist in the prevention of tooth and jaw pain

Bruxism can also result in additional jaw pain, migraines, dental pain, and tooth wear and tear. Mouthguards are designed to be worn while sleeping to alleviate any discomfort.

Customized Guards

The dentist allows you to bite down on clay to create a facsimile of your teeth when making bespoke guards. They then submit the mold to a laboratory for analysis.

Additionally, the dentist can alter the thickness of the guard based on the severity of the bruxism. Additionally, doctors ensure that the procedure is comfortable.

Eliminate Headache

Clenching places a great deal of strain on the jaw. Users report varying degrees of jaw pain. This leads to migraines and headaches, making it difficult to continue with their daily routines. However, the use of night guards can help avoid it.

Encourage Sound Sleep

Wearing a guard enables you to sleep peacefully. It eliminates the clenching tension that occurs during sleep. While sleeping, this causes muscles to relax.

We hope that reading this blog has given you an idea about mouthguards. Call us today if you want the Mouth Guard Treatment in Houston, Texas.

Does Water Intake Really Affect Your Oral Health?

November 25, 2021

Most people often fail to realize that drinking an adequate amount of water on a regular basis is important for having a healthy smile. Now having a clear idea about this topic can not just invite dental problems but can also create a prominent barrier between you and an attractive smile. Keeping this in mind, we have come up with a blog that will discuss how water intake can be really good for your gums and teeth.

We recognize how vital hydration is for a healthy mouth at Smiles Of Memorial. Water is always beneficial to your teeth and gums. Drinking water, along with brushing and flossing, is one of the most effective strategies to avoid cavities and gum disease. Simply by drinking water throughout the day, you may prevent plaque formation and protect your tooth enamel. Go through the sections below to know more about it in detail. 

Water helps to keep your mouth clean

Drinking water helps to prevent cavities and gum disease by washing away dangerous germs and food debris. Water is beneficial to your teeth because it keeps your mouth clean. Plaque cannot form in a mouth that is clean and moisturized. Plaque, food, and beverages contain acids that can erode your tooth enamel, but drinking water dilutes acids and helps to protect your teeth. A simple glass of water can remove stain-causing residue, eliminate bacteria that cause foul breath, and protect your teeth’ enamel. You’ll have a brighter smile if you drink more water.

Drinking-Water Can Help You Avoid Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition in which plaque builds up due to a lack of saliva production in the mouth. Saliva plays a critical role in protecting your teeth and gums. Saliva, like water, sweeps away food particles and kills bacteria that cause cavities. Plaque acid harms teeth and produces lesions that can lead to cavities, yet saliva protects teeth from plaque acid attacks. Minerals in your saliva also help to strengthen and regenerate tooth enamel; your teeth are more vulnerable to damage if you don’t have enough saliva. Keeping your mouth hydrated and stimulating saliva production are two benefits of drinking water.

Water Aids in the Restoration of Tooth Enamel

Another reason that drinking water is helpful for your teeth is that it remineralizes them. The mineral concentration of your tooth enamel is significantly higher than that of your bones. Water enriched with trace minerals and fluoride aids in the restoration and strengthening of your enamel. Minerals and fluoride, on the other hand, are usually exclusively found in tap and mineral water. Filtered and bottled water are frequently deficient in important minerals, whereas distilled and reverse osmosis water are devoid of minerals and fluoride. Ask about scheduling a series of fluoride treatments at your next appointment with Smiles Of Memorial if you prefer filtered or distilled water for its purity.

We hope that you have now understood why drinking an adequate amount of water is necessary for your oral health along with brushing your teeth and executing other steps related to oral hygiene. 

In case you are looking for the best dentist in Houston, TX, book an appointment with Smiles Of Memorial. We are here to provide you with handcrafted treatment plans that will specifically suit your needs.

Oral Health and Root Canal Treatment

November 15, 2021

The root canal treatment is a dental procedure that is used to treat and save teeth that have become diseased or decaying. Your dentist will remove the pulp and nerve from your tooth during the root canal operation. After that, the interior component will be cleaned and sealed. If the therapy is not completed, the surrounding tissue around your tooth will become infected, which can lead to the creation of an abscess.

Why is it necessary to remove tooth pulp?

When your tooth’s pulp, or nerve tissue, is destroyed, it rots, allowing germs to develop inside the pulp hollow. Abscessed teeth or infections can be caused by these germs, as well as other decaying fragments. An abscess is a pus-filled pocket that generally appears on the skin. It occurs when an infection spreads beyond the base of a tooth.

Aside from abscess, a tooth’s root infection can cause swelling in other areas of the face, head, and neck. It can also induce bone loss at the root’s tip, which might harm your oral health. Furthermore, the infection may cause drainage problems when it ultimately reaches the surface from the root.

What Damages the Nerve and Pulp of a Tooth?

Acute decay, big fillings, numerous dental procedures on a particular tooth, significant physical discomfort to the face, to name a few causes, can infect, inflame, or irritate the tooth’s nerve and pulp.

What happens during a root canal procedure?

The root canal can be performed by a dentist or an endodontist. An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases or injuries related to the dental pulp and tooth pulp. The degree of difficulty faced in performing the procedure will determine the type of dentist who will perform it. Your dentist will go over everything with you in detail before the onset of the root canal treatment process.

The first step of the root canal is an examination of your mouth. An X-ray will be obtained to adequately assess the root canal’s morphology. If there is an infection in the jawbone, the analysis will reveal it. Because the nerve is already dead, a local anesthetic may be given to deaden the area to be treated, although it is not required. However, many dentists still employ anesthetics to put their patients at ease throughout the procedure. After that, a rubber dam will be placed entirely around the tooth to keep it dry during the surgery.

The Procedure

After that, your dentist will drill a hole in the tooth to function as an access point. Your tooth’s pulp, which contains bacteria and decaying debris, will subsequently be removed. The sides of the canals will subsequently be scraped with root canal files. The fragments are washed away with sodium hypochlorite or water regularly.

Your dentist will seal the tooth as soon as it has been thoroughly cleaned. In some circumstances, especially when there is an infection, the sealing may not be completed right away. If your root canal is not finished the same day, a temporary filling may be given to the external hole to prevent infection until your next appointment.

The interior section of the tooth will be filled during your next appointment. The filler will consist of gutta-percha, a rubber compound, and a sealer paste. A dental filling will subsequently be used to fill the exterior hole. The placing of restoration is the final stage. This can take the form of a crown or a post to appropriately safeguard the tooth. It will also prevent the tooth from fracturing and restore its full function. If you need additional dental procedures, your dentist will talk to you about them.

Does Root Canal Cause Pain?

The Root Canal procedures don’t make people do through immense pain or discomfort. . Anesthesia is used to make the site of treatment numb so that you do not feel pain.

What To Expect After Root Canal?

Once the surgery is done, you may have some sensitivity for a few days. This is due to the possibility of natural tissue redness, especially if there was illness or pain before your therapy. Your dentist will prescribe drugs to alleviate the pain and sensitivity. If the operation isn’t finished yet, avoid chewing with the restored teeth to avoid recontamination and injury to the delicate tooth.

Are Root Canals Successful?

According to the research, root canal procedures are exceedingly successful with a 90 percent success rate. Teeth that have been repaired with this technique can last a lifetime. To add on, because a repair like a filling or crown will be applied, it will not be visible to bystanders.

Are There Any Root Canal Complications?

A root canal is no exception to the rule that most medical treatments include some level of risk. After your tooth has been cleaned and cemented, there is a chance that new infections will develop. Many things can cause this, including an undiagnosed crack in the tooth’s root, a poor restoration, or the disintegration of the inner sealing substance, to name a few.

What Are The Complications With Root Canal?

Most dental treatment procedures involve some complications, the root canal is no exception. After your tooth has been cleaned and cemented, there is a probability of new infections getting developed. Some of the major causes of this problem include an undiagnosed crack in the tooth’s root, a poor restoration, or the disintegration of the inner sealing substance, etc.

Alternatives of Root Canal

The best alternative is to take proper care of your God-given teeth (if this is possible). Your natural teeth will allow you to eat without restriction, letting you consume the proper nutrition. Another important option is to replace your missing teeth with implants, partial dentures, or bridges to restore chewing function.

Root Canal Prevention

The nerve of your tooth or the pulp can get infected due to various reasons, severe tooth decay is the most prominent one. To keep them protected, you must maintain adequate oral hygiene. Regular dental appointments are also critical since they can help avoid a variety of problems. If you suffer from damage as a result of a sports-related injury, you can also use a mouthguard.

Final Thoughts

We hope that giving this blog a thorough read has helped to get a better understanding of root canal treatment. Call us if you are looking for the best root canal treatment in Houston, TX, and nearby, book an appointment at Smiles Of Memorial. Always remember that our dentist and a team of other dental professionals are here to help you in every possible way. Give us a call today.

6 Tips For A Healthy Smile

October 18, 2021

A healthy smile is the first thing that people notice about others. Hence it is essential to follow a good oral care routine to keep your teeth in good condition. Our dentists at Smiles Of Memorial have provided a checklist that can help you to maintain good dental health. Follow these tips if you want to enjoy a beautiful smile for the rest of your life.

 A Good Oral Care Routine

It is important to maintain a good dental routine on a regular basis.  To begin, brush your teeth twice a day.  Brush your teeth gently, and don’t forget to brush your tongue. Remember to floss once every day. You can also switch it up with antibacterial mouthwashes. You can consult your Houston dentist if you have more questions about brushing or flossing.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is important for maintaining a healthy body and mind. Drink a lot of water to get rid of harmful toxins from your body.  Water also cleans your teeth, lowering your risk of tooth decay. Drink plenty of water if you want to enjoy good oral health.

Avoid Tobacco

Smoking is harmful to both your mouth and your body. It weakens your immune system and increases the chances of falling sick.  Smoking can also stain your teeth. A quick teeth whitening procedure by your dentist in Houston can get rid of the stains. But if they get permanently bonded to your teeth, then getting rid of them might be difficult. Smoking can also increase your chances of suffering from periodontal disease.

Avoid Beverages That Can Stain

Tea and coffee, which are high in caffeine, can cause tooth discoloration. Similarly, red wine can also stain your teeth. Reduce their consumption if you want to enjoy a sparkling and shiny smile. You can discuss with your Houston dentist about other alternatives.

Balanced Diet

Want a healthy smile? You must maintain a healthy diet. Consume protein and calcium-rich foods. This is one of the simplest methods for improving your smile. Fruits with high acidities, such as oranges and pineapples, should be avoided because they can weaken your teeth’ enamel. Consume fish, yogurt, green vegetables, and other dairy products to keep your teeth healthy for the rest of your life. You can also consult your dentist in Houston for more information regarding a healthy diet.

Regular Dental Checkups

It is important to visit our dental office regularly to make sure your teeth are in good condition. These routine checkups help to detect early signs of several dental issues and act as a good preventive measure. This will also ensure that your disorder is treated on time and help protect you from further oral health complications.

We hope this blog has helped you to understand how to achieve a healthy smile. Get in touch with us at Smiles Of Memorial and enjoy the best dental care services in Houston, TX.

Find Out The Risk Factors For Oral Cancer

October 9, 2021

Oral Cancer is a serious disease and it is important to identify it in the early stages. Understanding the risk factors could help in proper diagnosis and timely treatment. Our dentists at Smiles of Memorial have provided a list of the most common risk factors of oral cancer. This will help you in the early detection of the disease and lead to effective treatment.

What Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer just as the name suggests is a disease of the oral cavity.  It usually shows up on the tongue, the rear of your mouth, or the gum tissue linings. Most of us tend to overlook the symptoms initially since they are painless.  However, as it progresses, there are multiple warning signs, such as mouth ulcers or abnormal outgrowths. If you discover any of these symptoms, you should schedule an oral cancer screening with your Houston dentist without wasting a single moment.

What Are The Risk Factors Of Oral Cancer?

Let’s look at the risk factors now that we have established what oral cancer is. It is important to highlight, however, that risk factors do not guarantee that you will suffer from the condition. It indicates that you are at risk of contracting the disease. Let’s take a closer look at a few of the risk factors mentioned below by your favorite dentist in Houston.

Obesity

Cancer of the larynx and oropharynx can be caused by poor diet and obesity. Fruits and non-starchy vegetables can help people lose weight and keep their obesity under control. This will also decrease the chances of developing oral cancer.

Tobacco

Intake of tobacco, such as smoking and chewing tobacco products, can increase your risk of developing cancer. It is also possible to get cancer in different areas of the body along with oral cancer. You may detect white or red blotches, that you should not disregard. Check them out with your dentist in Houston to see whether they’re cancerous. Early detection is critical for effective treatment, so don’t overlook these indicators of oral cancer.

Alcohol

Heavy drinkers have a higher risk of developing oral cancer. When tobacco and alcohol are combined, you are more likely to suffer from several issues, including mouth cancer. Controlling your drinking and smoking will improve your life in the long run.

Lack Of Dental Checkups On A Regular Basis

There could be many factors that could raise your risk of developing cancer, and you may not even be aware of it at first. Only a trained Houston dentist can discover it while considering all of your dental health issues. Your dental care professional will look for strange lumps and abnormal overgrowths during your routine appointments. This will help in prompt diagnosis and safeguard you against further complications.

Your Age & Gender

According to studies, men are more prone to develop cancer than women. This is because men are more likely to smoke and drink. As a result, males have a higher risk of contracting this disease than females. People over the age of fifty are more prone to suffer from it if you want to consider the age factor.  However, if a young man is infected with HPV, he can also develop the condition.

We hope this information helps you to protect yourself from oral cancer. Book an appointment with us at Smiles Of Memorial if you are looking for oral cancer screening services in Houston, TX.

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.