general - Edwards Family Dentistry

What Kinds of Foods Are Harmful for Teeth?

October 14, 2022 by Admin

Snacking is an activity we all do and what we choose to snack on is important. Snacks that are full ofsugar such as candy or cake may taste good, but are not good for our teeth. In addition to the sugarthesetypes of snacks contain large amounts of fat. Sugary snacks if eaten regularly can cause toothdecay. At our practice, we provide our patients with guidelines for healthy eating, and always promotehealthy choices to keep teeth free of harmful bacteria.

How Can Sugary Snacks Impact My Teeth?

Our mouths contain bacteria,and this bacteria forms a sticky material called plaque. The plaque stickson or in-between our teeth and this can cause decay. When sugary snacks are eaten the bacteria in themouth gravitates towards the sugar, and turns the sugarinto acids. This acid can damage the hardenamel that covers our teeth,and cause cavities to begin to develop. Staying away from snacksor foodsfilled with sugar can help keep the bacteria in your mouth from producing the acid that causes decay.

How Should I Choose A Healthy Snack?

When you have that urge to snack take a minute to ask yourself if the snack you chose contains sugar. Ifit does, you may want to choose another snack that would be healthier for yourteeth. Staying awayfrom gooey sweets or snacks that are very chewy is a good rule of thumb. These types of snacks canstick to the surface of your teeth and take longer to remove,exposing your teeth to sugar longer. If youdo choose to eat sweets, it maybe best to save that type of snack for after a main meal instead ofhaving that snack between meals.

We work to teach our pediatric and adult patients the benefits of healthy eating. Taking care of our oralhealth not only includes brushing or flossing,but it includes making healthy eating choices. Staying awayfrom snacks full of sugar can help prevent cavities, and keep your teeth looking and feeling great.Brushing your teeth after eating a sweet with a fluoride toothpaste can remove any harmful bacteriathat may cause cavities if left on our teeth.

What Types of Snacks Are a Good Choice?

There are many goodtastingand healthy shacks on the market today that are less harmful to our teethand body. Stickingto snacks that are lower in sugarcan help protect our teeth from decay or otherdiseases. Choosing foods like fruits or vegetables,andcrackers or bread are good choices. It may behelpful to make a healthy food list that you pick from when snacking or eating. This can help you makegood choices and stay away from those harmful sugary foods.

Examples of Smart Food Choices That Are Less Likely to Cause Tooth Decay

Fresh Vegetables of Fruits

Oranges
Bananas
Apples
Grapefruit
Broccoli
Carrots
Cucumbers
Tomatoes

Grains

Unsweetened cereals
Popcorn
Bread
Bagels
Pasta
Crackers

Milk and Dairy Products

Low or non-fat milk
Low or non-fat cheese
Low or non-fat yogurt

Meat, Nuts, Seeds

Chicken
Turkey
Nuts

Looking For a Dentist?

Many foods or snacks are harmful to our teeth and body. At our practice, we careabout the overallhealth of each patient, and always promotes healthy snacking and eating. Checking the label and sugarcontent can help you make the right decision for healthy snacking. Choosing a variety of foods from thebasic food groups can help you eat a balanced diet, and keep your teeth looking and feeling healthy.Brushing and flossing daily as well as attending your regular dental exams in our office can help keepyour oral health in check. Our team works diligently to not only care for your teeth, but care for youroverall health.

If you are looking for a dentist, our team is happy to help. To get more information or to schedule yourdental exam, contact us and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

Can Dental Cleanings Damage Enamel?

October 14, 2022 by Admin

Dental cleanings are integral part of our oral health, and are typically recommended twice a year.Keeping our teeth and gums free and clear of harmful bacteria is important. Our team is proud to offergeneral dentaltreatments like dental cleanings. We strive to provide quality services for our patients,and always make sure our patients are relaxed and comfortable during their visit.

However, some patients have asked us if having their teeth cleaned regularly can damage the enamel onour teeth. We hope that this article can help address this common concern.

Can Dental Cleanings Damage Enamel?

Dental cleanings do not damage the enamel on your teeth!Cleanings safely remove the plaque andbacteria that builds up over time on the teeth and under the gums. If teeth are not cleaned regularlyinflammationcan occur,and this can lead to gum disease. Brushing at home is a great way to removebacteria from the teeth, but brushing cannot clean our teeth like a professionalcleaning.Our certifiedhygienists provide quality cleanings to keep your teeth and mouth healthy.

If teeth are cleaned improperly at home or by a non-professional, damage can occur to the enamel.Enamel is extremely durable,and it is hard to chip or damageduring cleaning exams. Enamel can wearoff if patients suffer from bruxism, or use harsh brushing strokes while brushing their teeth at home.Acidic foodsor drinkscan also cause erosion to enamel on our teeth.

If you have concerns about the condition of the enamel on yourteeth,please let our team know whenyou schedule your appointment.

What Should I Expect During my Cleaning Appointment?

Dental cleanings in our office typically take anywhere from 30-45 minutes. X-rays are taken if needed,and carefully reviewed during your exam to help our team to provide a customized treatment planforeach patient. Our skilled hygienists use special tools tocarefullyremove the hard layer of plaque from apatient’s teeth, and we ensure your mouth is free of any plaque or bacteria.Our staff will discuss thehealth of your teeth and gums,and will recommend further treatment if needed.

Your oral health is extremely important to us, and we encourage our patients to keep up with regularlyscheduled dental cleanings to keep their teeth looking and feeling great. Regular dental cleanings are agreat way to prevent future issues. Dental exams give us the opportunity to catch any potential issuesearly,and prevent serious issues from developing.

Looking for a quali ty dentist in for your next Dental Exam?

If you are looking for a friendly dentist, contact us for your next dental cleaning. Our goal is to provideexceptional service in a family friendly environment. Our staff is available to answer any questions youmay have, and we welcome all new patients to our office.

If you are interested in scheduling your next dental cleaning with us, please give us a call, and one of ourstaff members will be happy to assist you.

How Much Radiation is in a Dental X-ray?

January 30, 2022 by Admin

Dental x-rays are commonly used when you visit your dentist. Many patients wonder if dental x-rays are safe and if they should worry about radiation exposure. Expressing concerns about your health and safety is normal, and the good news is that dental x-rays are extremely safe. You may notice your hygienist covers you with protective equipment and leaves the room during the x-ray. This is to avoid repeated exposure because hygienists perform x-rays daily as part of their cleaning and exam routines. The protective equipment placed on the patient helps to further protect your body and organs that are more sensitive to radiation exposure.

Every day we are exposed to levels of radiation naturally in the environment, and dental x-rays only make up a small fraction of the average daily dose of radiation each day. Patients do not need to worry about exposure, as the amount is so low there is nothing to be concerned about.

Are Dental X-Ray’s Safe?

Dental x-rays do not require much radiation to produce images. With the new technology used today x-rays use 90% less radiation exposure and are safe for patients. Diagnostic imaging gives our team the ability to see inside your teeth and this allows the detection of decay, bone loss, or oral cancer. X-rays can help prevent future issues by diagnosing and treating anything we see promptly.

Benefits of Dental X-Ray’s

Detect decay, fillings, gum disease, and oral cancer.
Detect changes in soft or hard tissues.
Show jawbone development
Detect bone loss

Interested in Learning More About How Dental X-rays Can Benefit You?

If you are interested in learning how dental x-rays can benefit you, or you are due for your regular dental exam and cleaning, contact Edwards Family Dentistry. We provide the highest level of service and use the latest technology and equipment. Let our team help you care for your smile, and prevent unnecessary visits to the dentist. Our doctors have years of experience and love to help patients care for their teeth and gums. Oral health is extremely important and is directly linked to our overall health. Attending your regular dental visits can help to detect issues and keep your smile looking and feeling great.

To schedule an appointment with us contact Edwards Family Dentistry, and our staff will be happy to assist you.

Does Coke Ruin Teeth in General?

August 15, 2021 by Admin

Your diet can play a part in the health of your teeth. Drinking soda is common, and many people drink soda every day without even thinking of the effects on your teeth. Not only is soda bad for your teeth, it is associated with type 2 diabetes and weight gain. At Edwards Family Dentistry, we focus on prevention and recommend patients follow a healthy diet, and avoid foods and drinks with high sugar levels. Your teeth are important, and the choices you make can help prevent many unwanted visits to the dentist.

What Happens to My Teeth When I Drink Soda?

Breaks Down Enamel

When you drink soda the sugars in the soda mix with the bacteria in your mouth to form acid. This acid attacks your teeth and can wear down the tooth enamel. The acid breaks down the enamel on your teeth and softens it, making the enamel more prone to decay. Evan sugar free sodas can damage your enamel.

Cavities

When you drink soda, the acid can also reach the layer of dentin that is under the enamel. This can cause cavities to develop over time for people that drink Coke regularly. If you have composite fillings, the soda can also erode away your fillings.

What Can I Do To Prevent Coke From Damaging My Teeth?

If you have to have a soda once in a while, there are things you can do while enjoying your beverage that can help prevent damage to your teeth.

Use a straw to sip the soda. This will help keep the acid and sugar off of your teeth.
Drink soda only on occasion. Only drink soda for special occasions, or try and limit your intake to one soda per day.
Drink fast to lessen the time the soda has to interact with your teeth.
Rinse with water after you drink a soda. Rinsing after drinking soda can help wash the acids and sugars away from your teeth, and prevent damage.
Don’t brush right away after drinking a soda. Brushing right after drinking a soda can cause damage to your teeth. This is because the acid from the soda was just in contact with your teeth, and this makes your teeth more vulnerable to damage while brushing.
Attend regular cleanings and exams at your dentist. Regular visits will allow our doctors to identify problems before they become more serious.
Do not drink soda before bedtime. Drinking before bedtime just gives the acid and sugar all night to attack your teeth and cause damage.
Choose other beverages such as water or sparkling soda water that will not cause damage to your teeth.

Taking care of your oral health should be a priority, and this includes making good choices when it comes to your diet. Staying away from sugary foods and drinks can really help keep your enamel strong, and your teeth free of cavities. If you think you have damage from drinking soda and would like to come in for an exam, we welcome you to schedule an appointment with us. Our team can help get your oral health back on track, and give you recommendations on what to change in order to prevent future issues.

Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?

If you are due for your dental cleaning or exam, or have concerns about the enamel on your teeth and would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Edwards Family Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

What is The Main Cause of Crooked Teeth?

July 15, 2021 by Admin

Many patients long for that perfect straight smile. It seems everywhere you turn; you see people with beautiful smiles as a result of braces. If you have crooked teeth, you may feel isolated and your self confidence is lost. Not everyone is born with perfect teeth, and some people will need help in order to get that beautiful straight smile. The good thing is there are many orthodontic options to help correct crooked teeth, and get you the smile of your dreams. At Edwards Family Dentistry, our doctors have years of experience in orthodontics, and creating beautiful smiles is our passion.

What Are the Common Causes of Crooked Teeth?

Genetics

Genetics is the main cause of crooked teeth in many patients. Unfortunately, we do not have control over how our teeth will develop. If a patient has a smaller mouth, their risk for overcrowding increases. Other causes can be related to jaw issues such as overbites or underbites.

Habits

Many children suck their thumbs or use a pacifier. This can actually do more harm than good, and the damage is typically noticed years later. These types of habits can lead to crooked teeth. If you thrust your tongue or breath through your mouth, this can also cause crooked teeth. Orthodontic treatment is typically recommended to straighten teeth, and keep your teeth aligned.

Injury

If you suffered from an injury in the mouth or jaw this can cause crooked teeth. When teeth are loose or lost, this can cause your remaining teeth and jaw to shift, and cause your teeth to become crooked. Seeking help from an orthodontist is important to help repair your mouth, and get your teeth back in place.

Keeping Primary Teeth

Taking care of a child’s baby teeth is important. Primary teeth help the permanent teeth erupt into the right place. If a child loses their primary teeth too early due to decay or trauma, this can directly affect how their permanent teeth erupt. This can cause a child’s permanent teeth to come in crooked.

What Are My Treatment Options?

Orthodontic treatment can help patients with crooked teeth at any age. If you start early, you can get the best possible results. Today, there are many options for orthodontic treatment such as traditional braces or clear aligners. At Edwards Family Dentistry, we discuss all of the orthodontic options during our detailed consultation process. Depending on the severity of the correction and health of your teeth, we help our patients choose the option that best fits their lifestyle. Your oral health is our priority, and we love to help patients achieve the smile of their dreams.

Looking for a Dentist Near You?

If you are looking for a dentist near you that offers orthodontic treatment, Edwards Family Dentistry can help. Our doctors have years of experience in orthodontics, and we provide the highest level of service to all of our patients. Don’t live with crooked teeth, let our team help you get on the road to a beautiful smile. Correcting your smile can boost confidence, and allow you to feel great around others.

To schedule your orthodontic consultation with us, contact Edwards Family Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How to Find a Good Dental Insurance Plan?

July 2, 2021July 1, 2021 by Admin

Choosing the right dental insurance plan is important because dental work can be expensive. Even a simple filling can be costly. Knowing what to look for when choosing a dental insurance plan, and understanding what is covered can help you figure out what plan is best for you. Most dental plans will cover 100% or preventative care if you use in-network dentists. This includes exams, x-rays, and cleanings. Basic procedures are typically covered at 80%, and major procedures are usually covered at 50%.

What Should I Check for When Choosing My Dental Insurance?

Group Coverage

Check to see if your insurance company provides group coverage through your employer or programs such as Medicaid. These types of plans can be less expensive and have better benefits.

Check Individual Policies

Individual policies are always more expensive compared to a group policy. Most come with limited benefits, and patients should plan ahead if they need a large procedure. Many insurance companies require a waiting period before you can use the insurance coverage. If you wish to avoid the waiting period there are other plans that do not require you to wait before coverage is available.

Check for Dentists in Your Network

If you know a dentist in your area that you like, ask what insurance plans they accept. Certain policies allow you to go to the dentist of your choice. Other plans such as PPO or HMO require you to use a dentist in their network.

Understand Your Coverage

Dental insurance can be confusing, and it is important to really understand what is covered, and what your expenses will be. Research what procedures are covered and what is not so you are prepared. Some plans have benefits that are limited, and they also have waiting periods before coverage can begin. Knowing how your insurance coverage works can help avoid headaches, and help you choose the best plan available.

Most insurance coverage is great for preventative care such as exams, cleanings and x-rays. Visiting the dentist is important, and choosing the coverage that is best for you can help you pay for those expensive procedures you may need in the future. Talk to your insurance provider to really help you understand the different plans, so you can choose the plan that best works for you.

Do You Have Questions for Our Team?

At Edwards Family Dentistry, we accept many insurance plans and offer alternative in house payment options for those patients that may not have dental coverage. Our goal is to ensure all of our patients can receive the treatment they need. Our staff is always available to answer any questions you may have regarding insurance or financial options.

We care about our patients, and want you to have the best experience when you visit our office. Taking care of your oral health is important, and knowing what coverage you have can help reduce stress, and make your appointments go smoothly.

Ready to Schedule an Appointment?

If you are ready to schedule an appointment with us, please contact Edwards Family Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Is Tooth Sensitivity Permanently Curable?

June 2, 2021June 1, 2021 by Admin

Tooth sensitivity is a common problem, and many patients encounter pain or discomfort when they eat certain foods that are hot or cold. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, around 40 million adults suffer from sensitivity. Usually, the pain is temporary and can be treated to improve, but not cure the condition.

At Edwards Family Dentistry, we provide many general dentistry services including treatment for patients that suffer from sensitivity. We strive to provide quality dental care in a caring and friendly environment, where patients can relax during their treatment. We welcome new patients to our practice, and look forward to you joining our dental family.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can happen suddenly, and to anyone. Typically, symptoms of sensitivity include a sudden sharp pain when your teeth are exposed to cold, hot, or acidic foods. Tooth sensitivity can also come after you brush or floss your teeth. Teeth whitening can cause sensitivity after treatment, so patients should consider this when they are deciding to start a whitening regimen.

Our teeth are protected by enamel, and underneath the enamel is a layer of dentin. Dentin is soft, and if the enamel on your teeth is worn down, or your gums have receded the dentin can become exposed. Dentin can be exposed from cavities or cracks in your teeth. The dentin is connected to the nerve area, and this is what can cause pain or sensitive teeth.

Other Actions That Can Cause Sensitivity

Brushing too vigorously
Gum recession from periodontal disease
Gingivitis
Teeth grinding or clenching
Cracked or injured teeth
Plaque
Acidic foods or drinks
Dental procedures such as sensitivity after a filling
Teeth Whitening treatments

What Treatments Are Available for Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can never completely go away, but there are treatments available that can help alleviate the sensitivity you experience. If you are experiencing any sensitivity, we recommend you make an appointment for an exam in our office. We can treat sensitivity easier if we know that is what is causing you pain. Never leave pain untreated as this could lead to more serious issues in the future.

Sensitivity Treatments

Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
Changing to a soft bristled tooth brush.
Use a mouthwash that contains fluoride.
Avoid acidic foods or drinks.
Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth.
Inlays or bonding can help fix a tooth and decrease sensitivity.
Gum grafts can help protect the root area of the tooth.
Fluoride gel or varnish treatment can help protect your teeth from wear and tear.
Root Canal therapy if needed can help with severe tooth sensitivity, but this is typically the last resort.

Taking care of your teeth and knowing when to call your dentist is important. Patients should never have prolonged pain or sensitivity to hot or cold. It is always important to take care of your oral health, and practice good habits at home. At Edwards Family Dentistry, your oral health is our priority, and we strive to provide our patients with quality and affordable dental services. Let our team help you take charge of your dental health.

Ready To Schedule Your Appointment?

If you are interested in finding out more about treatments for tooth sensitivity, contact Edwards Family Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

What Types of Treatments Do General Dentists Provide?

May 15, 2021 by Admin

General Dentists provide services to diagnose, treat, and maintain your oral health. Our office specializes in general dentistry, and this includes preventative, corrective, and restorative treatment for patients. Our general dental care services allow us to remove any decay or disease from your teeth and gums. We preserve your natural teeth and keep you looking and feeling great.

Visiting our office regularly to maintain your oral health is important. Starting out good habits at an early age can create a good foundation for taking care of your teeth. Preventative treatment helps to keep teeth and gums healthy, and stop decay. During your exam in our office, we will evaluate your teeth and mouth, and develop a customized treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.

What Treatments Are Included in General Dentistry?

Our office has many general dental services to help keep you looking and feeling great. We provide consultations to discuss any concerns you have with your smile. Our consultation includes a detailed exam to determine what procedure is needed.

General Dentistry Services

Cleanings
Oral Exams
Fillings
Oral Cancer Screenings
Dental Implants
Extractions
Root Canals
X-rays
Fixed Bridges and Crowns

What Can I Expect During a General Dentistry Appointment?

Our general dentistry appointments begin with a visual exam of your teeth and mouth. If needed, x-rays are taken so we can take a closer look at the health of your teeth, gums, and jaw. We will discuss any prior health history, and review any prior x-rays if the patients had them sent over to our office.

Next, our team will perform a thorough dental cleaning. This removes plaque from the teeth and gums and polishes the teeth. We also check any existing restorations to ensure they are all stable and in great condition. This includes fillings, implant, bridges, and crowns. Our team will also do an oral cancer screening of the mouth and tongue.

If there are any areas of concern, we will discuss those details with you and create a customized treatment plan. Our staff will discuss next steps if you require further treatment. Patients may have to return to our office for another appointment depending on what is required.

Interested in Scheduling an Appointment?

Attending your regular exams twice a year in our office is an essential part to our oral health. We can help maintain your teeth and gums and keep them looking and feeling great. Exams allow our team to get in front of any potential complications or decay, and prevent serious complications. Let us help you take charge of your oral health, and call our office today!

If you are interested in scheduling your cleaning and exam with us, please contact Edwards Family Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

Can Small Cavities Heal By Themselves?

May 13, 2021May 1, 2021 by Admin

If you have a cavity and are reluctant to call your dentist, you may be hoping the cavity will just heal itself. A cavity is tooth decay that causes a hole in the tooth. If cavities are not treated more serious issues can develop. At Edwards Family Dentistry, it is important to take care of your oral health and practice good habits at home. Attending your regular cleanings and exams in our office can identify if you have any cavities, and make sure they are addressed promptly.

How Will My Small Cavity Be Treated?

If you have a large cavity, you will most likely need a filling. If the cavity is small and is causing you no pain or discomfort, we may be able to watch the cavity by comparing x-rays to determine if the cavity is active or arrested. Small cavities that are caught early on can be stopped with good oral hygiene. Taking care of your teeth with brushing, flossing, and using fluoride can help strengthen the enamel, and stop a cavity in its tracks.

Treatments for a Cavity

Fillings
Inlays or Onlays
Crowns
Root Canals
Extractions

What Can I Do To Reverse Decay and Prevent Cavities?

Brush and floss at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste.
Increase your fluoride intake to help stop the cavity from further decay. Our office provides fluoride treatments, and fluoride can be found in toothpaste or mouthwashes.
Sealants can be applied to molars to prevent cavities from forming. This is a clear plastic protective coat that can help halt or reverse current decay on a tooth if the cavity is small enough and in the early stages.
Limit eating and drinking foods that have a high sugar content. These types of foods and drinks contribute to tooth decay. If you do consume these foods, make sure to brush right afterwards.
Visit our office twice a year for your regular cleaning and exam.

Interested in Scheduling an Appointment?

If you have a cavity that needs to be filled, or is causing your issues please do not hesitate to call our office. Leaving a cavity untreated can cause more serious issues if the cavity is not addressed promptly. Our flexible hours and schedule allow you to be seen right away. Your health is our priority and we welcome new patients to our office.

To schedule your dental exam or cleaning contact Edwards Family Dentistry, and our staff will be happy to assist you!

How Can I Fix a Gummy Smile?

April 15, 2021 by Admin

Do you notice when you smile you see gum tissue more than your teeth? This is known as a gummy smile, and many patients are bothered by how their smile looks. There are treatment options to correct a gummy smile, and we are here to help you find a treatment that works best.

What Can Cause a Gummy Smile?

Your Bite

Your bite can be genetic and your top jaw may not align properly with your bottom jaw. If your bite causes the upper jaw to protrude this can cause a gummy look.

Hyperactive Upper Lip

If your lip raises up too high gum tissue may be exposed, and this results in a gummy smile.

Excess Gum Tissue

The most common cause of a gummy smile is having too much gum tissue. In many cases gum tissue can over grow when permanent teeth erupt in the mouth.

What Are My Treatment Options?

Crown Lengthening

Crown Lengthening helps to reshape the gum tissue around the tooth and correct a gummy smile. This procedure exposes more of the patient’s natural tooth and make the teeth look longer.

Gum Contouring

Gum contouring can help change the shape of your gum, and this can be done if you have excess gum tissue. This procedure also helps if the gum line is uneven. Gum contouring removes the excess gum tissue and exposes more of your teeth. This helps to give patients a beautiful even looking smile.

Scaling and Root Planing

If a gummy smile is caused by inflamed gums a deep cleaning treatment may be recommended. Scaling and root planing reach down deep into the gum pockets to remove bacteria. This can help the gummy appearance subside.

Lip Lowering

This procedure involves removing a section of gum tissue to reveal a shorter looking lip. This keeps the upper lip from rising too high and exposing your gum tissue.

Orthodontics

If you have an issue with your bite orthodontics may help correct your gummy smile. Orthodontic treatment can help adjust your bite to avoid gum tissue showing when you smile.

Looking To Take the Next Step to a Beautiful Smile?

If you are looking to correct your smile we encourage you take the first step and schedule a consultation in our office. This will give our team the opportunity to evaluate your concerns, and discuss possible treatment options that work for you. We want you to be proud of your smile, and we are here to help you get the smile you have always wanted.

If you are interested in scheduling a cosmetic consultation, contact our office and we will be happy to assist you.