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Should I Brush or Floss First?

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Family Dentistry

Creating an oral hygiene routine at home is important to help maintain your oral health and keep your teeth and gums feeling great. Brushing and flossing each day is extremely important, and the order in which you do these two items is a common question. Many wonder which way gives the most benefit.

Is Brushing First Better?

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is a key part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Brushing cleans your teeth and removes plaque, as well as prevents cavities from developing. Brushing is not the only thing you need to do to keep your oral hygiene in check. Flossing is another integral part of oral hygiene. The order in which you do these two items is a popular discussion.

Brushing does allow the toothpaste with fluoride to get in-between the teeth and help lift residual plaque when you floss after brushing. Studies show that flossing first is better, and is a more efficient way to keep up with your oral health. Flossing last also leaves particles in your mouth if you do not remember to rinse afterwards.

What About Flossing First?

Flossing first has many benefits, and recent studies now recommend that you should floss first before you brush. Flossing first helps to loosen that plaque buildup, as well as increase fluoride concentration between your teeth. When you brush after flossing the brushing then helps to remove those particles that are released from flossing. This helps to reduce plaque in your mouth, and lowers your risk of developing gum disease. Brushing after you floss helps the toothpaste to really do its job to protect your teeth from decay.

What About Flossing First?

Flossing first has many benefits, and recent studies now recommend that you should floss first before you brush. Flossing first helps to loosen that plaque buildup, as well as increase fluoride concentration between your teeth. When you brush after flossing the brushing then helps to remove those particles that are released from flossing. This helps to reduce plaque in your mouth, and lowers your risk of developing gum disease. Brushing after you floss helps the toothpaste to really do its job to protect your teeth from decay.

Benefits of Flossing and Brushing

  • Prevents gum disease that is caused by poor dental hygiene or not brushing and flossing properly. Routine dental cleanings in our office are important and we recommend dental cleanings at least twice a year.
  • Removes plaque that is the leading cause of gum disease. If you floss and brush your teeth regularly plaque does not have the chance to harden on your teeth.
  • Prevents decay and costly dental procedures. If you take care of your oral health you can avoid serious complications or dental procedures in the future.

Overall, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy by practicing good oral hygiene habits. Cavities and gum disease are preventable, and remembering to floss and brush each day will help keep your mouth feeling great. Visiting our office regularly for your cleaning and exam is another way to stay on top of your oral health.

During your dental exam our team will discuss any hygiene recommendations, and review how to keep up with your oral hygiene care at home. Taking care of your oral health is important, and your health is our priority.

If you are interested in finding out more about how to improve your oral hygiene routine at home, or to schedule your next dental exam, contact our office and our staff will be happy to assist you.

Are There any Differences Between Mouth Washes?

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Oral Health

Mouthwash is used to help rinse away bacteria or food particles after you brush and floss each day. Using mouthwash is an additional way to help protect your teeth and gums. Knowing the differences between mouthwashes can help you choose the right one to incorporate into your oral hygiene routine.

What Are The Different Types of Mouthwashes Available?

Mouthwash With Fluoride

Fluoride mouthwash contain sodium fluoride, and this helps to protect your teeth from decay and cavities. Fluoride is also found in toothpaste and is added to our tap water. Only using the required amount each day is important because too much fluoride can be harmful to your health. Reading the labels can help to ensure you are only using the appropriate amount that is recommended daily.

Antiseptic Mouthwash

Antiseptic mouthwash is the most common mouthwash used by most patients. This type of mouthwash contains alcohol and can help to stop bacteria in its tracks. Using an antiseptic mouthwash can help fight bad breath, and prevent infections. Patients must be careful using this type of mouthwash. Overuse can lead to stains or discoloration on your teeth. Following the recommended daily guidelines is important to keep your teeth and mouth healthy.

Cosmetic Mouthwash

This type of mouthwash is used to only freshen your breath. Cosmetic mouthwash does not do anything to help with your oral health. Using this type of mouthwash can help rinse food particles away, and is a temporary solution for bad breath.

Natural Mouthwash

Natural mouthwash is a common type of mouthwash that helps keep bacteria away and freshens your breath, but contains only natural ingredients. Natural mouthwash brands do not contain alcohol, and the ingredients are safer compared to other types of mouthwashes available.

During your routine cleaning it is important to discuss what products you are using at home including your mouthwash. Our team is available to access your dental health, and recommend the best mouthwash for you to use at home.

Interested in Finding Out More?

During your routine cleaning it is important to discuss what products you are using at home including your mouthwash. Our team is available to access your dental health, and recommend the best mouthwash for you to use at home.

If you are interested in finding out more about what mouthwash may be best for you, or to schedule your next exam, contact our office and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How Can I Reduce My Costs for Dental Care?

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Family Dentistry

Dental care can be costly, and simple procedures can even run up your bill. Caring for your teeth is necessary to keep your oral and general health in check. Many people have no dental benefits at all, or if they retire their benefits are lost.

Skipping dental care is not an option, and can lead to other more serious health issues such as diabetes, or heart conditions. There are ways you can reduce your dental care costs, and help pay for those costly procedures that are necessary to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Ask Your Dentist if They Offer an In-House Membership Plan

Many dental practices today offer their own dental membership for patients. These plans act like an insurance plan, and give patients discounts on procedures that are done in their office. If a patient does not have insurance it is wise to inquire about an in-house plan to help keep costs down.

Sign Up for a Dental Plan Through Your Employer

Many companies offer both medical and dental insurance plans. Most plans pay for at least half of the cost, and preventative services are typically covered 100 percent. Routine procedures are usually covered around 80 percent, and larger more involved procedures such as crowns are usually covered at 50 percent. Using in-network providers can help you save money, and allow you to get the dental work you need.

Dental Savings Plan

Dental savings plans are available to participants who pay a fee to join. The fee is typically annual, and allows you to choose from a network of dentists that offer discounts for members. Dental savings plans allow patients to get the work done that they need at a discounted price without insurance.

Affordable Care Act

Patients can apply for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act. Logging on to their website can let you know if you qualify to purchase dental coverage.

Dental HMO Plan

A dental HMO plan may be available in your state. Typically cleanings and exams twice a year are covered, and procedures are at a discount. Many dentists participate and accept HMO plans, and this is a good way to help save on dental care.

Veterans Benefits

If you are a veteran you qualify to receive insurance at a reduced rate. Disabled veterans are also eligible for free dental care through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Do Your Research

If you are required to have a costly procedure, research the average price of that procedure. Ask your dentist for a discount, and most likely they will work with you, and help find a price and payment plan that fits your needs.

Create an Emergency Dental Fund

Setting aside money each month for dental care can help cover procedures or emergencies that are unpredictable.  Knowing you have a savings account will put you at ease if an emergency arises and you need dental care.

Looking for an Affordable Dentist Near You?

Taking care of your oral health is a great way to prevent costly dental procedures. Brushing and flossing each day, and staying away from foods and drinks that contain sugar can help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Visiting our office regularly for exams and cleanings is extremely important to maintain your oral health. Regular visits allow our team to get in front of issues before they become urgent, and we can help you keep your teeth and mouth looking and feeling great.

We care about our patients, and our team is here to help take care of your oral health. Ask our team if you have questions on coverage or payment plans, and we will work with you to ensure you can receive the very best care.

To find out more about dental programs we offer, or to schedule your next dental exam, contact our office and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

What are the Most Frequent Dental Diseases in Children?

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There is a belief that children do not need to go to the dentist until their final teeth come out. Traditionally, the dentition of milk has not been given much importance, because it is thought that since it is not definitive teeth, the problems that it suffers should not be treated. It’s a mistake. There are dental diseases in children that can affect from an early age and must be treated. This is responsible for child dentistry, also called pediatric dentistry. Specialists in dental treatments for children.

What Are the Most Common Childhood Dental Ailments?

The child’s dental health has an impact on his general health and also conditions the health and condition of the final denture. A bad mouth can have a negative influence on how to chew food, causing the child to suffer digestive and even nutritional problems. Oral health also affects the child’s immune system. These are the most frequent diseases in the infant mouth:

Gingivitis

A disease that can become serious if left untreated. It is caused primarily by poor oral hygiene. It is important not only to treat it, but to correct it as soon as possible, instilling in the child good dental cleaning habits. Gingivitis can lead to loss of tooth support, bone loss and tooth decay due to poor gum conditions, which fail to hold them.

Stomatitis

Also called the disease of canker sores, it causes the appearance of very painful ulcers in the mouth, including lips and tongue. Burning becomes unbearable and feeding difficult due to pain. This disease usually affects girls more than boys. The causes are unknown, although it points to stress, systemic diseases and some immunological factors. These ulcers also appear by friction or by introducing irritating substances into the mouth, such as acidic foods. Occasionally, the appearance of mouth ulcers is indicative of an important disease.

Herpangina

They leave ulcers in soft areas of the mouth, such as the palate, tonsils or pharynx. They are caused by a virus and more frequent in school age. They usually cause epidemics and run with fever.

Hand-foot-mouth disease

It is due to Coxsackie A 16 virus. It is manifested by vesicles in the hands, feet and mouth.

Oral candidiasis

Produces typical whitish and cottony pseudo membranes that break off easily, leaving the gum red and inflamed.

Mucocele

It usually comes out in the lower lip but it can also be done in other areas of the oral mucosa with salivary content. Sometimes cysts form that must be surgically removed.

Contact Graceful Smiles Dentistry

At Graceful Smiles, we provide exceptional dental care for patients of all ages. We take care of our families, and ensure that each appointment is a positive experience for everyone.

If you are interested in scheduling an appointment with Dr. Elsa Mammen, please contact our dental office in Richmond, TX today! 

What Age Should a Child Go to the Dentist?

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Many parents wonder what age is the right age to bring their child to the dentist. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD) recommends that parents seek out a dentist for their child by age of one, or when they notice the first tooth erupting. Typically primary teeth erupt around six months of age.

In many cases, parents feel their child is too young to see a dentist, or that they don’t have enough teeth to warrant a visit. Visiting a dentist at this early age helps to ensure baby teeth are coming in properly, and allows the dentist to determine if they see any issues early on. It is important that children keep their primary teeth in place until they are lost naturally.

What Are The Benefits of Primary Teeth?

Some of the benefits of getting primary teeth include:

  • They help children to chew their food properly
  • They help with speech development
  • Primary teeth promote a healthy smile, and they give children confidence about their appearance.
  • Primary teeth save space for future adult teeth

Starting your child out right with proper dental care helps build good oral hygiene habits. If you establish a good relationship with your dentist, this helps your child to understand how important it is to take care of your teeth.

Contact Graceful Smiles Dentistry

Our team will check for any issues as your child grows older, and ensure your child’s teeth are looking and feeling great during each visit.

At Graceful Smiles, we provide exceptional dental care for patients of all ages. We take care of our families, and ensure that each appointment is a positive experience for everyone.

If you are interested in scheduling your child’s first appointment with Dr. Elsa Mammen, please contact our dental office in Richmond, TX today! Graceful Smiles today!

Tips to Improve Dental Hygiene for Children

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Tips to Improve Dental Hygiene for Children

You need to be in charge of teaching your children better brushing habits.

Children need to see the dentist twice a year to keep their teeth healthy and clean. Unfortunately, many children do not take good care of their teeth at home, which means they may develop cavities and other dental problems that cause more work to be needed at their checkup visits. By adopting healthier habits at home, you’ll find that your child’s checkup visits are easier and quicker.

Choose the Right Tools

The right tools will make all the difference for your child when brushing and flossing their teeth at home. While manual brushes are fine, powered toothbrushes help to brush away plaque, bacteria and debris quicker than any manual would be able to accomplish. Choosing a kid-friendly flossing tool can help in creating healthier and stronger teeth and gums. Remember to always use a toothpaste meant for children that contains fluoride, as this helps to prevent cavities.

My wife adviced to try graceful smiles after her visit. Looks like she was right again. This is now the dentistry for me, my wife and our two little kids.

Eleghosa Obasohan

Teach Good Brushing Habits

You need to be in charge of teaching your children better brushing habits. You can do this by either showing them or by brushing your teeth in front of them so that they can follow in your footsteps. When you take the time to care for and appreciate your own smile, you’ll find that your children do the same and put more effort into their oral hygiene.

Get Involved

In most cases, you’ll need to brush your child’s teeth for them until they’re about five to six years old. Younger children may not have the dexterity to hold the brush and hit every tooth’s surface. By brushing your child’s teeth for them, you can be sure that they’re being cleaned properly twice a day. However, once your child is old enough, they need to learn how to care for their own teeth.

Adopt Healthier Eating Habits

Eating healthier foods can have a serious impact on the health of your child’s smile. Sugary snacks and drinks can cause tooth decay and deep stains. By teaching your child to eat better and make healthier choices, they’re less likely to go for sugary sweets and candies that could ruin their beautiful smile.

As with all patients, routine trips to the dentist help to keep smiles healthy and bright for life. If you have a child who needs to see a dentist, call our office today and we will work to get them in for an appointment.

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