Ask the Dentist: Waterpik vs. Flossing

November 16, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

The Differences Between Waterpik and Flossing

A healthy smile is important for more than just cosmetic reasons. Yes, it looks good but ensuring you keep good oral hygiene is important so you don’t develop cavities or gum disease. Gum disease has been linked to heart problems so oral hygiene is vital for your overall health.

Most people think that just brushing their teeth gets the job done. While it is good practice to brush your teeth twice a day, the process doesn’t completely remove all food particles from the mouth. Food particles and plaque build up in the little gap between your teeth and under the gum, a brush isn’t enough to target these areas. That is why all dentists in Sterling Heights, MI and the American Dental Association recommend flossing every day.

When it comes to flossing, you have two options either use a floss or Waterpik. But how can you decide without knowing the pros and cons of each? We have you covered, we have the insights from Sterling Heights dentists that will help you choose which is a better option for you.

Waterpik vs Flossing, Which is Better for You?

Waterpik

Waterpik uses water to rid plaque and food particle between teeth and under the gum. Also, known as oral irrigators or dental water, the process uses pressurized water stream to get the job done.

Who is Waterpik recommended for?

Flossing may be hard if individuals:

have braces
have crowns
have bridgework done
have dental implants

Waterpik may also be recommended for those individuals with arthritis or anyone that finds it difficult to use a string floss.

Benefits of Waterpik

Waterpik makes it easier to reach tightly packed spaces between your teeth. Spaces where you may have trouble squeezing in a floss. Flosses are thin but at times a lot of effort is needed to squeeze them in tighter spaces which results in the application of a lot of force. Due to the force, the floss may be jammed into your gum and it starts to bleed. With a water pick, the stream of water can easily maneuver through the tight space and clean it.

The process is much easier than flossing. It may take a little time for you to fiddle with the settings and get that right but the application of Waterpik is easy. You just need to make sure that you clean all sides of each tooth with it and do it slowly. There are no risks to using Waterpik.

Disadvantages of Waterpik

While the process is easy to use, it may not be as effective at getting plaque out as compared to flossing. It can loosen plaque but the pressure isn’t enough to completely get the plaque out. That is why some use a floss to get rid of loosened plaque after using a Waterpik. The technology is also a lot more expensive than dental floss.

Flossing

Dental floss has been a practice to clean teeth since prehistoric times while it wasn’t patented until the 1870s. Floss was initially made out of silk until the second World War when nylon replaced silk. You can find floss pre-cut, long strands, flavored, and in different varieties.

Who is floss recommended for?

Floss is recommended for everyone, it should be a part of your daily oral hygiene.

Benefits of floss

Floss is a great way to target food particle, plaque, and bacteria between the teeth. It allows you to target the plaque and get rid of it before it turns into tartar. Using a floss gives you more control over the cleaning process. You can exert more force and maneuver the floss in the direction that you want to get the right angle for cleaning.

Disadvantages of floss

It may be difficult at times to reach areas that are too tightly packed with the floss. If you go too far down in your gum with the floss it can result in your gums bleeding. So you need to be careful and do the process slowly.

Once you are done flossing, it is recommended that you rinse your mouth with water to get any loose particle of plaque out.

When it comes to picking between the two, it all depends on which of the two you are more comfortable with. Many find it easier to just floss their teeth after they brush, it requires a bit more effort but you have complete control over the process. Dr. Dhoon at Greeley Dental Care agrees that floss is also more effective at getting rid of plaque. If you are too lazy to floss on your and need something easier to use then Waterpik is the next best option. Either way, one of the two should be a part of your oral hygiene regimen to ensure your smile stays healthy.

Are Oral Health Issues Genetic?

October 3, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Are oral health issues genetic?

Should you thank (or blame) your parents for the state of your dental health? In other words, are oral health issues genetic?

Patterns and behaviors in the family, while you were growing up, can influence your dental health for life.

For one, studies have shown that children who were taught good dental hygiene early will most likely be diligent in their adulthood. As such, they get to enjoy stronger, better-looking teeth and gums than their peers who were not as meticulous about dental care.

Aside from family habits, genetics also play a key role in determining oral health.

Dental experts at Laurich Dentistry agree that you can be prone to certain teeth and gum conditions if these are in your genes. Add environmental risk factors in the mix, and you can most likely catch the dental problem that most of the people in your family also have.

The following are some of the dental conditions that have been associated with genetics:

Tooth decay

What to do: Go to your dentist for professional cleaning on a regular basis. Your dentist may also recommend dental sealants and fluoride treatment (especially for teens) and may prescribe the use of toothpaste and mouthwash with strong anti-cavity formulation.

Periodontal disease

What to do: If there is gum disease in your family, make sure to share the information with your dentist when talking about your medical history. This way, your dentist can focus on preventive measures and early detection. As such, regular dental checkups are a must.

Bad bite

What to do: Misaligned, crooked, crowded or missing teeth can cause a bad bite. If this is common in your family, tell your dentist about it for orthodontic checkup and treatment as early as possible.

Oral cancer

What to do: Know that oral cancer is largely associated with cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption. But genetics also play a role, especially if combined with those lifestyle risk factors.

Going to a trusted Sterling Heights dentist that offers oral cancer screening services is an important self-care procedure. Regular oral cancer screening is recommended even if you don’t have a family history of the condition.

Talk to your dentist

The best dentist in Sterling Heights, MI dentist in Sterling Heights, MI will not only treat your dental problems as they come. Instead, they will be proactive about knowing more about you, your dental health background and your goals about your dental health.

Go to a dentist who can provide the care and help that suits your unique needs. This way, you prevent serious dental problems – whether they’re genetic or not.

Do Adults Need Fluoride Treatments?

April 25, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Professional associations, like the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend the use of toothpaste with fluoride as soon as a child’s first tooth erupts.

Fluoride helps fortify the teeth of young children which can be vulnerable to tooth decay brought about by bacteria, acids and sugars in their teeth.

The use of this mineral can minimize damage on the teeth of children and even reverse some of the damage brought about by the onset of tooth decay.

But do adults need fluoride treatments?

What the pros say

According to Dr. Farhat, a trusted dentist in Sterling Heights, some adults can benefit from fluoride treatments.

Ideally, you should get your fluoride from a variety of sources, including your diet, your water, and dental products like toothpastes and rinses. However, your dentist may recommend products with stronger concentrations or a fluoride treatment, depending on your needs.

Who can benefit from fluoride treatments?

An example of people who can immensely benefit from fluoride treatments would be those who have a moderate to high risk of getting dental cavities.

You may also need to get a fluoride treatment if you are taking medications which alter the flow of saliva in your mouth. When the flow of saliva in your mouth is substantially reduced, your mouth becomes drier and puts you at a higher risk of getting cavities.

If you have not been taking good care of your teeth, getting a fluoride treatment can help undo some of the damage caused by poor oral hygiene practices like irregular toothbrushing and flossing.

Finally, if you are about to undergo radiation treatment for cancer, ask your Sterling Heights dentist about the benefits of fluoride treatments and whether they would be good for you. Radiation can wreak havoc on your salivary glands, adversely affecting the flow of saliva in your mouth.

If you are planning on getting braces or restorations like dental crowns, your dentist may also recommend that you undergo fluoride treatments. Fluoride can help strengthen your teeth, thus ensuring that you get more value out of the specific dental treatment you are planning on getting.

Patients suffering from gum recession should also seriously consider getting fluoride treatments. Gum recessions create gaps between the teeth and gum, exposing the teeth’s root surface. This can leave the teeth more vulnerable to decay.

Not sure if you need a fluoride treatment? Dr. Farhat will gladly answer your questions and determine if you need one.

To learn more interesting facts about your oral health, visit our blog.

What Happens During A Teeth Cleaning?

April 11, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Most people are afraid of teeth cleanings because of the strange noises, prodding, and occasional jaw discomfort. But despite this, a teeth cleaning process is painless and simple.

Being aware of what happens during a teeth cleaning process will help ease your stress. Also, this will allow you to enjoy the results better.

Here’s is a step-by-step guide to the teeth cleaning process:

Step 1: A Physical Exam of the Mouth

Before the cleaning process begins, a dentist in Sterling Heights will perform a physical examination of your entire mouth. Your teeth and gums will be checked for any signs of potential concerns like gingivitis. Once a problem is detected, it will be evaluated to ensure that it is okay to proceed.

Step 2: Plaque and Tartar Removal

Your dentist will remove plaque and tartar between your teeth and around your gum line using a scaler. It is normal for you to hear scraping when this is being performed. If you have more tartar in your mouth, more time will be spent to scrape it all.

Remember that tartar can only be removed through professional teeth cleanings at the dental office. Thus, if this step is your least favorite part of this dental procedure, you need to brush and floss often to prevent the buildup of tartar.

Step 3: Gritty Toothpaste Cleaning

Once your teeth are tartar-free, it will be brushed with a high-powered electric brush. Although the grinding noise that this brush emits is scary, Dr. Farhat says that this is the best way to get a deep clean. Also, this will eradicate the remaining tartar.

The toothpaste your dentist uses is like your regular toothpaste, but this has a gritty consistency. When done by a professional, this teeth polishing procedure can be done safely for at least twice a year. Avoid brushing your teeth too harshly at home because it will wear down your enamel.

Step 4: Flossing

Flossing on a daily basis is highly recommended, but nothing beats a professional flossing session. A Sterling Heights dentist can get deep between your teeth and figure out any trouble spots where you may bleed at the gums. Also, this will remove any leftover plaque from earlier during the plaque and tartar removal step.

Step 5: Rinsing and Fluoride Treatment

Rinsing is important to remove any debris. So your dentist will give a rinse that has liquid fluoride.

After that, a protectant will be applied to your teeth to help fight against cavities. A foamy gel or a sticky paste will be placed in a mouthpiece that fits perfectly on your teeth, which will be left on your teeth for a minute. Apart from that, a fluoride varnish will also be painted on your teeth. This will harden once it comes in contact with your saliva so you can drink and eat immediately after.

Regular teeth cleanings are crucial to prevent any dental problem. By being aware of what is happening during this process, you will feel more relaxed and comfortable. In fact, this might even cause you to look forward to these dental appointments.

Drinking Tap Water May Help Your Teeth

December 22, 2017 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Drinking Tap Water May Help You At The Dentist

When tooth decay is left untreated, it can cause infections and pain that will hinder speaking, eating, learning, and playing.

With the controlled addition of fluoride compound to the public water supplies, a study published in the January/February 2010 issue of General Dentistry says that this is a cost-effective way to fight tooth decay and prevent cavities. Indeed, drinking tap water may help at the dentist.

Fluoride and Your Teeth

Fluoride will make your entire tooth surface more resistant to decay. Also, it promotes remineralization, which is crucial for repairing early decay. Water fluoridation is considered to be the best source of fluoride.

Tap water has been treated with fluoride in order to prevent cavities. Water fluoridation can prevent at least 25% of tooth decay both in children and adults. While teeth are erupting under the gums, the fluoride will strengthen tooth enamel. This way, it becomes stronger and more resistant to cavities. And when the teeth erupt, fluoride will rebuild weakened tooth enamel.

Also, it can reverse early signs of tooth decay. Whenever you use fluoride dental products, you are giving your mouth a topical benefit since the fluoride is directly applied to your teeth’s surface.

In the US, more than 144 million residents in over 10,000 communities are drinking fluoridated tap water. And this can provide an automatic defense against the unsafe ingredients causing preventable oral health disease.

Rather than drilling holes in order to fix cavities, dentists prefer educating the public about tips for preventing tooth decay. A Sterling Heights dentist further emphasized that drinking tap water is safe; it is the most effective way of receiving fluoride. Also, this is more affordable than going to your dentist for a filling.

Varnish is also an effective source of fluoride. Applied by your dentist, varnish is among the most concentrated products today. This product has sodium fluoride that will adhere to your tooth surfaces when there is saliva, thus giving an excellent fluoride treatment.

By keeping fluoride in your mouth, its ability to prevent demineralization will be enhanced. Varnishes are better choices for this purpose as opposed to fluoridated toothpaste or drinking water. Typically, fluoridated varnishes are for those who do not receive sufficient fluoride from tap water, toothpaste, and other sources.

Fluoride can be found in salt products, specialty milk, gum, mouthwash, and toothpaste. However, the fluoride that the fluoridated water and varnish methods have can help reduce cavities by over 30%. If you suspect that you have a cavity, you need to visit your dentist now to prevent further damage to your teeth and mouth.

What Happens After A Tooth Dies?

September 21, 2017 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Healthy, normal teeth have living tissues inside the pulp and they play important roles in the development of a tooth. They also cause you to feel pain and discomfort when you have a toothache or whenever you eat or drink something really cold or hot. When these nerves and other living tissues die or are removed (under a root canal treatment), they will cause the tooth to die.

What Causes a Tooth to Die?

According to Sterling Heights dentist, Dr. Farhat, dental trauma and decay are the two main culprits which can cause a tooth to die.

Dental trauma caused by sports injuries, assault, or a huge fall or slip can cause the blood supply to the tip of the root to be severed, resulting in the pulp and tooth dying off. In cases of severe tooth decay, bacteria will get too near the nerve or pulp. The pulp will try to get rid of the bacteria, but without proper treatment, all it can do is to choke the blood vessels by raising the internal pressure. Unfortunately, this will cause the blood supply to be cut off and the pulp will eventually die.

In some cases, gum disease and excessive clenching can also cause the death of a tooth.

Signs and Symptoms of a dead tooth

You will know if a tooth is dying or is already dead if you see or experience these signs and symptoms:

Tooth discoloration or darkening. It can turn into a shade of yellow, gray, or black.
Pain or discomfort. It can vary from mild to severe, especially at the time when the nerve is dying or there is already an abscess in the tooth.
Some swelling, a bad taste, odor, and a “pimple” on the gum which may be caused by an infection or pus.

Treatment for a dead tooth

So what happens after a tooth dies? Once the nerve is dead, you won’t feel any pain or discomfort when eating and drinking something that is too hot or cold. However, you still need to see your dentist since you have a tooth with a dead nerve inside it which will begin to rot soon.

Root canal treatment may be recommended if you don’t want to lose the dead tooth. This procedure will effectively deal with the bacterial infection and remove the decayed section of the pulp, thereby preserving the dead tooth. The discoloration can be addressed through teeth whitening or the application of a veneer if the dead tooth is in front.

Extraction is the recommended procedure if the tooth is already severely decayed and is beyond repair. However, the extracted tooth has to be replaced with a dental implant or crown to replace the missing bone tissue and to allow the patient to have a complete, functional set of teeth again.

National Gum Care Month: 5 Tips To Prevent Gum Disease

September 19, 2017 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

September is the National Gum Care Month!

Now is the time to educate yourself about the early signs of gum disease and review the different habits that can help keep your mouth clean and healthy.

Early Signs of Gum Disease

Gums are swollen and red in certain places
Gums bleed easily when brushing
Gums feel tender
Gums have begun to pull away from the edges of the teeth

Gingivitis is initially painless. It takes time to develop into a noticeable problem. You can prevent gum disease with basic and simple oral hygiene measures.

5 Ways to Prevent Gum Disease

1. Brush at least twice a day

The sticky plaque will build up on your teeth continuously. If it is left there for hours, it will develop into tartar. Both plaque and tartar can contribute to gum disease.

2. Don’t forget to floss

Floss every day. Although brushing can prevent plaque from building up on your teeth, flossing will keep the area below the gum line clean and healthy.

You can use a water irrigator or a dental water jet. This is a device that can shoot streams of water between your teeth in order to completely remove bacteria and plaque.

3. Use mouthwash

Mouthwash should not be a substitute for brushing and flossing. However, if this is used along with other healthy oral care habits, it can eliminate bacteria. Also, it can keep your breath fresh and your teeth strong.

4. Eat nutritious meals

A healthy and balanced diet that is rich in nutrients and vitamins but low in sugar will boost your immune system. Also, this will help your body fight against harmful bacteria, infection, and inflammation. Eat greens to keep your teeth white.

5. Visit your dentist regularly

You must see your dentist twice a year for a good cleaning. During your visit, your dentist will also assess the health of your gums and teeth. If you are experiencing any problems, he will refer you to a reputable periodontist.

Early prevention and treatment of gum disease are crucial. When left unchecked and untreated, it can destroy your gums, teeth, connective tissues, and bones. Most importantly, this can greatly contribute to various health problems. So make sure to keep all of these activities as part of your day-to-day oral care regimen to keep gum diseases at bay.

If you are concerned about your oral health, schedule an appointment with a reputable Sterling Heights dentist now.

Dental Care Over 50

September 14, 2017 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Dental Care Over 50: Common Dental Problems And Tips For Avoiding Them

Prioritizing good oral hygiene is something that you should never stop doing, regardless of your age. Whether you still have a complete set of teeth or most of them are artificial, proper oral care is still important to retain the good health of your teeth and to avoid possible dental problems.

Top Dental Issues for People Over 50 and How to Avoid Them

Dental care over 50 is pretty much the same as with any age; practicing good oral hygiene and paying regular visits to your dentist are crucial. However, once you reach the age of 50, you have to be wary of these usual dental problems:

Tooth decay

If you’re over 50, you can get dental caries and decay on the surfaces of your teeth that have never been a problem before. They can also develop around old fillings, crowns, and bridgework, and at the root of your tooth. This is because as you age, the root of your tooth becomes softer and more exposed.

To minimize or avoid tooth decay, you can try fluoride gels or toothpaste and rinses. You would also do well to start having a well-balanced, mineral-rich diet and getting plenty of vitamin D. Your dentist can also prescribe specialized dental gels or varnishes that you can apply to your roots and teeth to prevent the start of tooth decay.

Dry mouth or Xerostomia

The normal process of aging slows down the production of saliva in the mouth. Certain medications, smoking, and other health problems can further expedite this condition. Saliva contains the minerals calcium and phosphate which prevent demineralization in the teeth and thwart the growth of cavities. If you have dry mouth, you are more at risk of developing tooth decay.

Common symptoms of dry mouth include difficulties swallowing, a sticky feeling in your mouth, dry throat, and having dry, cracked lips.

If you have dry mouth, you have to stimulate saliva production. This means staying fully hydrated by sipping water all day. Chewing sugar-free xylitol gum can also help. You can also ask your dentist to prescribe a saliva substitute or recommend an over-the-counter formulation that can help you get the saliva and moisture flowing again.

Gum or periodontal disease

As you get older, your risk for gum disease becomes higher, especially if you smoke, have poor dental hygiene habits, crowded teeth, and dry mouth. If you already have gingivitis (an early form of gum disease) and you leave this issue untreated, it can progress into periodontitis. Periodontitis is a serious dental problem wherein the gum pulls away from the tooth and creates pockets which can become infected. Serious cases of this dental condition can also cause the loss of bones in the jaw and teeth loss, even of healthy ones, since your teeth get so loose they simply fall out.

Regular visits to your dentist can help prevent the start of gum diseases. It is important that your dentist checks your gums at least twice a year to look for signs of infections or inflammations and provide treatment as early as possible.

People over 50 also have to be wary of oral cancer and tooth crowding. A Sterling Heights dentist will be able to diagnose various dental problems early before they can become serious and educate you about taking better care of your teeth.

Do I Really Need To See The Dentist Every Six Months?

September 12, 2017 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Why Do I Need To See The Dentist Every Six Months?

Most people ask: Do I really need to see the dentist every six months? Well, most dental professionals answer yes, and this applies to everyone. Of course, people with lots of problems must visit their dentist more often.

In 2000, more than half of dentists surveyed in New York recommended six monthly check-ups, even though there were no studies indicating whether the frequency of visits made a significant difference to patients at low risk of gum disease or tooth decay. Today, plenty of organizations like the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend six monthly check-ups.

Permanent teeth are most susceptible to decay after they have erupted. So as soon as the first permanent tooth comes through, regular check-ups are recommended. For teens, their teeth are less vulnerable until their wisdom teeth erupt. Dental risks vary at different ages.

Plaque and tartar can form in the mouth at alarming rates. Some can have tartar in their teeth two weeks after a cleaning visit. If dentists polish the teeth, the skin of the tooth (known as pellicle) is removed. However, this will reappear in three days. The plaque will then stick to it.

Therefore, home care is important. Gum disease is 100% preventable, but it is not 100% curable. So you need to arm yourself with tips and methods that will properly address this degree of infection.

Tips on Preventing Gum Disease

Brush twice a day

Brushing your teeth after every meal will help remove plaque and food debris that were trapped between your teeth and gums. Brush your tongue as well because bacteria love to hide there.

Floss every day

Flossing is the only way you can remove the food debris and plaque below the gum line. Your braces should not hinder you from flossing. A water flosser can be of great help. This device shoots up water between your teeth to dislodge food particles and remove plaque. This is also beneficial to people with arthritis and dexterity problems.

Swish with mouthwash

A mouthwash can help minimize plaque build-up. It can also remove food debris that flossing and brushing missed.

Know your Family Dental History

Genetics, diet, smoking, and age can increase your risk of developing gum disease. Be sure to speak with your dental professional if you are at increased risk. Sterling Heights dentist, Dr. Fadi Farhat can teach you what food should be included in your diet to keep your teeth clean and strong.

Periodontal Exam

An annual comprehensive periodontal evaluation or CPE is important. This will assess the condition of your teeth, gums, bite, bone structure, and plaque level. Identifying the early signs and symptoms of gum disease early is the key to keeping your teeth and gums clean and healthy.

8 Fun Facts About Digital Dental X Rays

September 11, 2017 by sterlingheightsdentalcare 1 Comment

8 Fun Facts About the History of Digital Dental X Rays

Growing up, you may have been taught that exposure to any form of radiation is harmful for human beings. In history books and on the news, you have likely seen its horrifying effects on people. Radiation can affect the body in a number of ways, but this also depends on the amount you are exposed to. In small doses, radiation has been used in medicine to detect and treat a host of ailments, from hyperthyroidism to cancer.

Radiation can be found in a wide range of medical and dental tools, and X-rays are one of them. Learn more about x-rays and the good side of radiation with these interesting facts about digital dental x rays.

Radiation can be found all us — in the air we breathe as well as on the walls, floors and ceilings made of cement, stone or bricks. It is also emitted by a number of devices including watches, TV sets and computers. Human beings have been exposed to radiation since before they were born. When talking about exposure, the amount of radiation should also be considered.
People are exposed to radiation on a daily basis. Even the amount of radiation you are exposed to when going about your day is several times higher than what you would get during a typical x-ray session. To put it into perspective, the amount of radiation a person is exposed to on a daily basis is the equivalent of taking 950 digital x-rays.
Using natural gas to cook food produces more radiation than making a dental x-ray.
X-rays have been around for more than a century. They were first discovered in 1895, the same year the first dental x-ray images were produced.
Machines have evolved over the years. Today’s machines are smaller, faster, more efficient and safer to use. Newer sensor-based machines use about a tenth the amount of radiation that the traditional film-based machines did.
X-ray images show what your teeth, bone and supporting tissues look like on the inside. Dentists use them to find cavities, look at the roots of each tooth, and see if you have any oral health issues.
Radiation safety measures emphasize the importance of using ALARA — As Low As Reasonably Achievable levels when taking dental x-rays.
Because images are now in digital form, it has become easier for medical and dental personnel to share images and collaborate on what treatment to use.

You can learn more about radiation and its benefits from your Sterling Heights dentist.

Call us today to schedule an appointment with one of our dentists.