Category Archive for ‘Dental Care’

Why choose dental implants over dentures?

rThe decision to choose dental implants over dentures can be a tough one. There are so many variables to consider when making the decision, it is important to do your due diligence to make a good decision. Both are quite capable for a solution to smile restoration, but more and more people are choosing dental implants over dentures due to a number of factors, including their improved comfort, better chewing ability, and a whole host of benefits.

Why should I choose dentures?

Dentures are the most traditional out of all your options for smile restoration. Dentures have been a staple of dentistry for a long time, and for one good reason: they are relatively inexpensive.  For some price is the most important part in their considerations.

How Dentures Work

Dentures work by using a mold of the teeth that are to be replaced, and then casting it in a durable and mouth-safe material. Next the dentures are affixed to the gum with an adhesive or cream.

Disadvantages of Dentures

  1. Dentures are not a long-term solution to tooth replacement. They wear down over time and will have to be replaced every few years. And if they don’t wear down they have to be adjusted to fit the changing shape of your jaw.
  2. That’s right, without teeth in the jawbone, the jawbone will begin to decay, and that will cause deterioration of the facial structure. Dentures will do nothing to keep your natural face shape.
  3. They often feel fake or unnatural in the mouth, and are prone to slip and move around. They can also cause much difficulty when chewing and speaking.
  4. Dentures will also likely need creams and adhesives that must be used to secure them in place. This will require you to reapply the adhesive every time that you wear dentures, a daily occurrence for most. You also will be restricted with what foods you can eat, due to the weaker chewing ability that the dentures impose.
  5. The dentures will have to be removed nightly in order to be cleaned. This can translate to misplaced dentures, and that means another replacement will need to be bought and developed.
When considering the cost of getting a set of dentures, be sure to factor the cost of the replacements in addition to the cost of initially getting the dentures. While this may not seem like a big expense now, the cost will eventually add up as every few years you are forced to replace them.

Why are dental implants so much better?

Dental implants offer a much simpler solution. They are also permanent, and can last a lifetime. They may seem like a greater investment up front, but they have long term benefits that are well worth the investment.

Benefits of Dental Implants

  1. The most dramatic benefit is the fact that they actually preserve the remaining jawbone which keeps you looking exactly like yourself. You don’t have to worry about bone loss at all, and can instead enjoy your natural smile.
  2. Dental implants also feel and function just like your natural teeth. You will hardly notice them, and they will be matched to your natural tooth color. Where in the past they may have looked translucent or noticeably different from your natural teeth, they are now made from much more detailed looking crown.
  3. There is also no need to mess with sticky creams, adhesives and the like. You can just take care of them just like your natural teeth – brushing two times a day and flossing at least once a day. Your life will likely be not very much different after getting the implant, after all it is fused directly into the jawbone.
  4. Dental implants are strong and stable, as they are anchored directly into the jawbone and they fit very comfortably in the mouth, just like your natural teeth. This means that you never have to worry about them slipping when eating, drinking and talking. You can even continue to eat the same foods you’ve always enjoyed, unlike a set of dentures.

Disadvantages of Dental Implants

  1. They can be very expensive, but that money is a life-long investment in not just your oral health, but your overall health. Your oral health impacts the rest of your life by allowing you to eat well and consume nutrients.
  2. They may also have to be replaced if you suffer from bone loss also know as Osteoporosis
If you are interested in exploring what a dental implant would look for you, give Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA a call at (909) 481-8990 to arrange an appointment with one of our dentists today.
Dental Implants Cost

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

Not all dental implants cost the same so it is important to do your research carefully when considering getting a dental implant. Dental implants are among the most popular tooth replacement options in America, for two major reasons: they look and function just like your natural teeth, and they are also designed to last a long time, and with good care and consistent check ups, possibly even a lifetime. If you have a tooth that is beyond repair or you lost a tooth in an accident or for any other reason, your dentist might recommend getting an implant to restore your beautiful smile. But the question remains: how much will the dental implant cost? The dental implant surgery is a very intense procedure that often takes months of recovery and the use of a skilled expert to perform the surgery correctly. To help with your research, here’s some facts about the dental implants that can give you an idea of what you can expect if you decide that dental implants are right for you.

Factors that Play into Cost

It is important to realize that your individual case is possibly to be far from the average. There are a number of factors influencing cost, from the extent of the work needed, to other factors, such as how much your insurance covers, to the cost of living of your area. The below factors will deal with the usual cost of a dental implant. Where you are located can have an influence on the cost of the implant. This may surprise you, but in regions in which the rent is higher, the dentist may require to charge higher rates to cover their overhead. If your dentist purchases dental implants from a supplier that charges higher prices, the cost of that may pass on to you too. Another factor is how many dental implants you will need. The more, the higher the price. In such cases, your dentist may suggest a bridge which can be an economical and better solution for those who need to replace multiple of their teeth. Your dentist can also opt to use an implant that uses high quality materials like a zirconium crown or a titanium implant. These materials, and the materials used in the other parts of the implant, will have an influence on the price. Be sure to talk to your dentist about the pros and cons of the various materials that can be used in your implant so that you are able to find the best option for quality and for price. Any preparation your dentist may need to do will influence the final cost of the procedure. For example, if you need a tooth extracted or a bone graft, this will have an influence on the cost.  Additionally, the dentist’s level of expertise might influence how much they charges. Your choice in dentist may play a role in the size of your bill.

What then can you expect to pay?

There are many factors that will influence the cost of the dental implant, but the average cost generally ranges between $1000 to $3000 for just one implant. But there is more, as you still need to add the cost of the abutment and the crown, which can cost between $500 to $3000. That means that your implant can range between $1,500 to $6,000. That is a big range to have to consider. If you need more than one dental implant the cost can range between $3000 to $30,000. And if you want to avoid a full set of dentures, then you are looking to be paying the top end of htt range, or even up to $90,000. So in one example, if you need just one implant you could spend $2000 for the implant to be placed, plus possibly $400 for the abutment, and another $2,000 for the crown, bringing the total cost up to $4,400. The need for x-rays, extractions, bone grafts, and other extras, can increase that total significantly.

Why such a high cost?

Why is it that dental implants cost so much? You must remember that this is a surgical procedure, so it is best to see a dentist who has received the proper training. A dentist with this speciality, known as implantology, a prosthodontist, or an oral surgeon are a few of the specialists that you would want to see to be sure that the implant is installed properly. You also should expect to see the expert for a number of times. Here is a basic outline of what the steps of getting an implant is:
  • Initial Consultation: The dentist will check your mouth, get some x-rays, and give you a diagnoses of the condition of your jaw to determine if you are a good candidate to receive an implant.
  • Insertion of the Implant: During the appointment, the dentist will drill into your jawbone and insert the implant. You may get a temporary tooth during the procedure.
  • Placement of the Abutment: After your gum has healed from the implant placement, it’s time for your dentist to screw the abutment in your implant. The abutment connects the implant to the crown.
  • Placement of the Crown: Lastly, the dentist will be able to remove the temporary crown and then replace it with a permanent crown.
The right dental insurance will often help with the cost of these procedures. Be sure to check with your insurance to see what they cover and what options are open to you. If you are interested in learning more about the process and cost of getting a dental implant, give Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA a call at (909) 481-8990 to schedule a free dental implant consultation today.
dental implants cost

How Dental Implants Work

Dental Implants are among the most popular options for full tooth replacement. They have many advantages over traditional dentures. This article will explain some of the features and benefits of having a dental implant. First, let’s examine what exactly a dental implant is.

What is a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are, to put it simply, an artificial tooth, similar in shape to a small screw. The implants are placed in the jawbone where they bond with the bone. This leads to a sturdy and stable base that supports one or more artificial teeth, called crowns. This also meant that unlike traditional dentures, dental implants help preserve the bone and so preserve your natural face shape. An abutment is placed on top of the implant. This is a connector between the implant and the crown. This is here to hold and support the crown. The crowns are then custom made to match your natural teeth and fit your mouth. Modern implants have a long 30 year history of success, and they are the strongest device to support replacement teeth. What makes them even more spectacular is that they allow these new teeth to feel, look and function naturally. The dental implant surgery is one of the most safe and predictable procedures in dentistry when performed by a trained and experienced dental implant dentist.

The Process of Getting a Dental Implant

Getting a dental implant begins by a consultation with your dentist. They assess if you have enough bone in your jaw to support the implant. Sometimes a bone graft is needed in order to allow for a strong base of support for the implant. This process may take a number of months of healing and recovery, but once complete, the dentist will generally perform the surgery in one or two sittings, beginning with placing the implant. Then, after some time as passed to allow for some healing, the crown is fitted. The healing process can be lengthy and while it may require some months of discomfort, you are effectively getting your tooth back. Isn’t getting your natural smile restored worth some discomfort?

Top Five Facts about Dental Implants:

  1. Dental implants have been used for over a thousand years, with the earliest archaeological record being a tooth-like piece of shell that had been hammered into the jaw of a Mayan woman. Luckily, dental implants have come a long way since then.
  2. Dental implants are the only type of dental restoration that actually preserves the natural bone of your jaw! And, it even stimulates bone growth
  3. In 1951, the AAID – American Academy of Implant Dentistry was founded by a group of dentists who were very successful at placing dental implants. Their mission was to share their knowledge and practice of implantology. The AAID is the first professional organization dedicated to advancing implant dentistry
  4. Not long after the founding of the AAID, in 1952, a Swedish orthopedic surgeon, named P.I. Branemark found that titanium actually fuses with bone, leading to its adoption as the go-to metal for metals from knee and hip replacements to dental implants
  5. An amazing 3 million people in the United States have implants and that number grows each year by about 500,000.
  If you are interested in getting your own dental implant and live in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, give Golden Smiles Dental a call at (909) 481-8990. You can arrange a free dental implant consultation with one of our dentists to see if a dental implant is the right choice for you.
dental implants

Top 10 Reasons Why Dental Implants Are a Smart Investment

Dental Implants are the latest innovation in the replacement of missing teeth.  You are probably familiar with traditional full dentures, which is the most common restoration used for patients missing all or most of their natural teeth. The image of dentures soaking in a cup of water each night is a common one, but it doesn’t have to be like that. Here are ten reasons that prove that tooth replacement doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or inconvenient. If you are interested in seeing if Dental Implants are the best option for you, give us at Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA a call (909) 481-8990 to book your appointment today.
  1. Boost your look Dental implants can dramatically improve your appearance by offering a more natural and attractive looking option than removable dentures. What is amazing is that they look and feel just like your natural teeth! Even better, the implants will fuse to the jawbone, so that they are just as permanent as your natural teeth. Worries about slippage, or irritating the gums are gone!
  2. Improve your confidence Traditional removable dentures can become loose and rock causing embarrassment and difficulty speaking and eating. With dental implants you can enjoy food, chat as much as you’d like, and do all your normal regular activities with confidence and without any sort of fear of embarrassment.
  3. Experience greater comfort and convenience Removable dentures can cause sore spots by rubbing on the gum beneath them. This is not the case for dental implants. Dental implant supported prostheses do not rub because they are fixed into the jaw, and there is no risk of slippage. Removable dentures must be removed at night and cleaned, and they may need messy adhesives, unlike dental implants which can be brushed like natural teeth, and need no application of adhesives
  4. Dental implants are durable Dental implants have a high rate of success and are much more durable than dentures. They can last years, or even decades with the right care. If kept clean and well-maintained, they can last a lifetime – just like natural teeth.
  5. You can improve your ability to eat the foods you used to love Removable dentures slide around, clicking when speaking and slipping when speaking. This can cause once pleasurable activities overly complicated and cause extreme unhappiness. The ability to chew foods improves dramatically when someone has dental implants. Removable dentures are only 20-25% as efficient as natural teeth, whereas dental implants are 80% as efficient as your natural teeth.
  6. Improve the taste of your foods When you are fitted with a full upper removable denture it covers the roof of the mouth, which makes food more difficult to taste and to enjoy. However, a implant supported prosthesis allow you to enjoy the full flavor and texture of your food without compromise.
  7. Improve your health and nutrition Food forms the foundation of health, and having an impaired ability to chew and enjoy food, can damage your health. Because you are unable to eat as many foods your health can be severely impacted. Traditional removable dentures can prevent you from eating certain foods, which are required to have a healthy and varied nutrient-filled diet. Chewy, crunchy foods, like vegetables and fruits can become very difficult to eat with a removable dentures. Dental implants make eating them about as easy as with natural teeth.
  8. You can regain your natural speaking ability Removable dental prosthesis can impede your ability to speak clearly and effectively, negatively impacting all aspects of your life. This can dramatically impact your quality of life in almost every area. A dental implant can help you speak clearly without difficulty and any slippage or popping.
  9. Lower the chance of losing your dental prostheses Because a dental implant cannot be removed you never even have to worry about losing it. Traditional dentures can become misplaced or lost very easily. You never have to worry about going without the ability to chew or speak clearly and effectively.
  10. Strengthen the Jaw Bone Your jaw bone will grow around the implants, preserving your natural jaw shape. When a tooth is absent from the jaw the jaw bone will degrade, dramatically altering your natural face. You can keep your natural smile, your natural face – something that removable dentures cannot do for you.
root canal

Everything you need to know about a Root Canal

The Root Canal is perhaps the most misunderstand procedure, and while in the past it was often accompanied by a painful experience, that is not the case now. Modern root canals are relatively pain free. This guide will show you everything you need to know before your visit to the dentist. If you have more questions, give us at Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA a call to speak with a dentist. Call us at (909) 481-8990 to arrange an appointment today.

Root Canal Basics

A root canal is a procedure mean to preserve a dead tooth. In most cases, the tooth has become infected and in order for the functionality of the tooth to be preserved, the infected tissue is removed and then the shell is filled, saving it so that no future infection can happen. A root canal is a fantastic alternative to the removal of a tooth. Pulling the tooth will often require a replacement, such as an implant or a prosthetic, to fill the hole in the jaw. This is important not only for the aesthetic quality of the tooth, but to preserve the jaw bone. The jaw bone will decay at the missing tooth site, dramatically changing the shape of your face. The procedure removes infected tissue and leaves behind a brittle tooth prone to fracture. Once completed, the root canal is quickly followed by the creation of a crown. The crown is often made of metal and serves as a strong protection to preserve the integrity of the tooth and prevent further damage.

Why should I get a root canal?

A root canal will mean that you will not have to extract the tooth. This can save you thousands of dollars on implants or prosthetic. You are able to keep your tooth and the crown keeps the natural strength of the tooth in tact. You also preserve your jaw bone around the tooth, and so your face will retain its natural shape. However, no root canal can fully clean out the infection. It can also be very difficult to sit for the required hours to clean out the infection with your mouth open the whole time

How does the procedure go?

The hardest part of the procedure is having to sit in the dentist chair for a few hours with your mouth open the whole time. If you can do that, you can easily complete the procedure. During the procedure, the dentist will begin by removing the infected or inflamed pulp, carefully cleaning out the tooth, and then filling and sealing the space to prevent reinfection. There is often a deep, full local anesthesia administered, and this is generally more than is often required for a filling. This is because the density will be removing the nerve present in the pulp. Multiple x-rays are needed to ensure the instruments are in the correct position to remove the infected pulp. The dentist may put a rubber dam over your mouth to keep bacteria out of your mouth, and to prevent you from swallowing medications. It essentially isolates the tooth from the mouth so that the dentists can complete the root canal. Then there will be a follow up visit that will involve placing the crown which will allow you to chew and use the tooth just like normal

Questions to ask your dentist

Before you agree to a root canal, be sure to ask your dentist any questions you have. Here are some to help you get started.
  • Is the procedure truly necessary?
  • Is there a possibility the tooth will recover?
  • What is the reason for the pulp’s death?
  • What are all my options?
  • What will happen if I don’t go through with the procedure?
  • Should I just install an implant?
  • How predictable is the treatment?
  • Do I need to see a specialist?
If you want to ask these or any other questions, give us a call at (909) 481-8990 to speak with a dentist at Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA.
Tooth Implant

Five Reasons to Get Dental Implants

There are several treatment options for a missing or damaged tooth or teeth, like veneers and crowns. However, dental implants provide a number of benefits that make for a better long-term investment overall.  Here are some great reasons why you should consider dental implants if you need to replace a damaged or missing tooth.
  1. Get permanent results Other alternatives, such as dentures or crowns, will deteriorate and even break. Because dental implants are anchored directly to the jawbone, proving greater stability and they can last an entire lifetime as long as you provide them with proper care.
  2. Prevent getting deeper oral health problems Missing teeth can create opportunities for your teeth to shift and these new spaces become a breeding ground for bacteria and cause tooth decay and gum disease. Dental implants eliminate such gaps and hold the surrounding teeth in place. This means you can keep your jaw from shifting and potentially changing your jaw shape.
  3. More effective oral function Implants hold in place very firmly and this is because they actually fuse to your bone over time, just like as if they are real teeth. The stability provides better functionality than other alternative because you won’t have to worry about changes in speech or an appliance falling out.
  4. Get back your natural smile An implant can give you back your natural smile without sacrificing the aesthetic quality of your smile. They can also match the color of the implant to the specific color of your teeth, giving you a more natural smile. This allows them to blends seamlessly with your existing teeth.
  5. A more convenient option Dental implants provide a more permanent solution so you can care for them like your natural teeth. Healthy oral healthy hygiene habits like regular brushing and flossing after meals to remove lingering food particles can let your implants last a lifetime and lessen your daily worries.
If you live in Rancho Cucamonga, CA give Golden Smiles Dental a call and any one can help you with any questions about dental implants. Call us at (909) 481-8990 to schedule an appointment today.
teeth whitening

What you need to know about Dental Implants

Many patients face the decision of whether or not to get a dental implant with a certain amount of fear or confusion.  What exactly does that procedure entail?  What might you expect?  This article will discuss some of the basics about dental implants.  If you are left with more questions after the article, give Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA a call to speak with a dentist who can answer your questions. Call us at (909) 481-8990 to set up an appointment today. The truth about dental implants is that they provide you with much more than a great smile. They can play an integral role in maintaining your oral health. When a tooth is missing, due to decay or loss, dental implants preserve facial structure and prevent the jaw bone from deteriorating. After the loss of a tooth, adjacent teeth can shift and create a gap that becomes a potential breeding ground for bacteria, leading to more infection. Another option to consider is the cost. While the procedure is usually more expensive than a bridge or a crown, however the results are permanent and do not require much maintenance. The implants are anchored directly into the jaw bone, creating a strong foundation for the artificial teeth.  This means that the implant will not require additional maintenance or replacement. Other factors to consider is that the fear surrounding getting an implant is the biggest obstacle for many. Really, the procedure is a simple one, with the dentist using an anesthetic during the procedure and most patients feel little to no discomfort. Most patients can use over-the counter medications to manage pain following the procedure. This means that dental implants are not as painful as you might expect. A winning smile may be worth the pain. If a dental implant sounds like a good fit to you, call Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA at (909) 481-8990 a call to speak with a dentist who can answer your questions.
Crowns & Bridges

How does Pregnancy affect your Oral Health?

Pregnancy comes with a whole host of changes to a woman’s body, ranging from hormonal changes to physical ones. Unlike the obvious changes, like the development of a baby bump, pregnancy can cause changes to your body that may go unnoticed. Some of those changes can have a dramatic impact on your oral health. Hormonal changes in the body can have a direct impact on its normal behavior. This is why it is important for women to take excellent care of their teeth while pregnant. The hormonal changes increase the risk of developing gum disease because it makes your gums more sensitive, which makes it easier for gingivitis to develop, and that can have a big impact on the health of the unborn baby. It is not uncommon for pregnant women to experience pregnancy gingivitis, which can be identified by swelling, bleeding, redness or softness of the gum tissue. Periodontal disease, a more advanced oral health condition can also affect the health of your baby. Research has shown that an expectant mother who suffers from periodontal disease may deliver a premature, low birth weight baby. These mothers are actually seven times more likely to have a baby that is born earlier and smaller than the usual baby, which increases the risk of future health problems and disabilities. There is hope, however, if you are diagnosed with periodontal disease and you are pregnant, our expert dentists will recommend a very common, non-surgical procedure called scaling and root planning. This simple procedure cleans the root of the teeth and the teeth themselves to remove plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins. This can reduce the risk of having a premature or low weight birth. Additionally, this can reduce many of the symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis. Follow these tips for optimal oral health during pregnancy:
  • Avoid sweets, as sweets provide a excellent food source for harmful bacteria.
  • As a precaution, avoid dental treatments during the first trimester and the second half of the third trimester. Let your dentist know you are pregnant.
  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Your baby’s teeth develop in the third month of pregnancy, so you want to be sure to be eating plenty of good nutrients to feed the growing baby.
  • Pay special attention to your gums, and if you see any changes call your dentist at Golden Smiles Dental (909) 481-8990 right away.
  • Maintain good oral hygiene, brushing at least twice a day, and flossing at least once a day.
  • Try a softer toothbrush if you cannot stand brushing your teeth due to morning sickness.
Finally, never skip routine dental checkups, as these are vital to keeping track of your dental health. Taking care of yourself is the beginning of good health for your baby. Call Golden Smiles Dental today to schedule your appointment: (909) 481-8990.
Wisdom Teeth

When should I get my Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Many young adults go through a routine procedure to get their wisdom teeth removed, with an estimated 10 million wisdom teeth removed from 5 million people a year. Sometimes, though, surgery is not necessary. You can trust Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA to be able to provide you with the expertise and the care to help you decide if getting your wisdom teeth removed is the next best step for you and your oral care.

What makes Wisdom Teeth Wise?

Wisdom teeth are your third and final set of molars that typically emerge in the late teens and early twenties. If they can be properly aligned and healthy, these teeth can be a valuable addition to your mouth. However, it is more common for these teeth to not be aligned, and this can have disastrous effects for the rest of your mouth. They can come in horizontally, angled inward or outward, or tilted toward or away from your second molars. Any misalignment can cause crowding and even damage to adjacent teeth, your jawbone, or your nerves. Additionally, there stems another potential issue from when the wisdom teeth come in impacted or enclosed within the jawbone or the soft tissue in a way that only partially breaks through the gum line. This partial eruption creates a perfect venue for infectious bacteria to enter your teeth and grow, causing an infection. Because these partially-erupted teeth are hard to reach and hard to clean, they become the perfect avenue for future tooth decay to take hold.

Why should you get your wisdom teeth removed?

Dentists will make the decision to remove wisdom teeth when they begin to impact teeth around them, causing problems, or when an X-ray shows that there may be problems down the line. They will also consider other factors, such as age, position of the teeth, and shape of your mouth to project any potential issues. Many dentists will remove teeth that appear healthy now but may pose a threat to your oral health in the future. The longer you wait, the more difficult it becomes to remove a tooth. Despite current pain, consult with your dentist to see if removing your wisdom teeth is the right move for you. Other symptoms that could indicate the need to remove your wisdom teeth include:
  • Damage to the jaw. Cysts can form around the new wisdom teeth, and if left untreated for too long, can cause damage to the surrounding nerves and hollow out your jaw.
  • Inflammation of the Gums. The gum tissue surrounding the wisdom teeth can become sensitive and swell, which can to pain and a more difficult mouth to clean.
  • Sinus issues. Sinus pain, pressure and congestion can all arise as a result of the inflammation in the gums.
  • The real danger of unremoved wisdom teeth. The swelling caused by inflammation can create pockets in which bacteria can hide and create cavities.
Regular check ups can keep you one step ahead of tooth decay, and your dentist will be able to tell you if you need wisdom teeth removed. Make sure you keep to your schedule of routine check ups. Call (909) 481-8990 today to arrange your appointment at Golden Smiles Dental, in Rancho Cucamonga.
Flossing Teeth

Five Reasons Why Flossing is Fundamental

Flossing may have a bad reputation, but its benefits are numerous and its role in your oral health is key. Simply brushing your teeth leaves two sides completely untouched, but flossing allows you to reach those sides and keep plaque build up from happening in some of the hardest to reach places.

Flossing Keeps Plaque Out

Flossing is the best way to prevent plaque build-up from happening between your teeth. Plaque is a kind of residue created by bacteria in your mouth after they consume bits of food and drink that are left behind after you eat. It is a soft film that builds up on your teeth, that is home to many harmful bacteria. The plaque will eventually harden into tartar if left to sit on the teeth. Plaque can be removed by daily brushing and flossing but if it is left to harden into tartar it can only be removed by a dental professional, costing you time and money and a trip to the dentist’s office. The plaque is especially harmful as it is acidic and will eat away at the surface of your teeth, causing cavities to form. When left untreated for a long period of time, the cavities can worsen, resulting in major tooth pain and may even necessitate the tooth be removed!

Flossing Covers Where Your Toothbrush Can’t

Toothbrushes are fantastic at removing plaque from three of the five sides of your tooth, the front, back, and chewing surface. That leaves two surfaces that are yet to be cleaned – this is where floss comes in. Flossing should become a major part of your daily routine. Flossing often seems tedious and time-consuming, but with tools like a dental floss holder or even a dental pick, the process becomes incredibly easy. You no longer have to figure out how much dental floss or dental tape to use, just pick up and go! These tools allow you to simply begin flossing, going through your entire mouth start to finish without worrying about the floss slipping or how to get in weird angles.

Not flossing can cost you big time

If you leave the plaque hidden between your teeth it is only a matter of time before it sinks below the gums. Gingivitis is a form of gum disease that creates inflammation and redness in your gums right around the teeth. Gingivitis, thankfully, is easily prevented simply by maintaining good oral hygiene. Brush at least twice a day, and floss daily. This can help you prevent, and with your dentist‘s help, maybe even reverse gingivitis. When left untreated, gingivitis evolves into a more serious form of gum disease: periodontal disease. This disease is often referred to as gum disease. It causes the inner layer of the gums and bone to pull away from the teeth and form pockets. These small pockets can get small bits of food stuck in them, and become infected with bacteria. The bacteria and the toxins the bacteria produce can enter your bloodstream causing all kinds of havoc throughout your body. It can also destabilize the jaw bone and you can actually lose a tooth all because of not flossing! According to the ADA (American Dental Association), gingivitis and periodontal disease are the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Flossing each day will not only save you your teeth but save you money too!

Flossing helps you look younger!

Gum disease and the associated bone loss and potential tooth loss associated with it, will change how your face is shaped and give you an older appearance. Keeping your teeth clean and healthy will give you a youthful smile and face shape. Floss at least once a day and you will not only look younger but you will be able to keep your smile for a long time. Flossing should be a fundamental part of your daily routine. The benefits of flossing once a day are well worth the few minutes it takes to clean your teeth. Flossing helps you fight against plaque build up and keeps your teeth and mouth healthy and happy. For more information or for tips on how to floss, speak with your dentist at your next visit and they will be happy to show you proper flossing and brushing technique.