Talk to any family dentist, such as Wayzata Dental & SmileSpa, and they will tell you it’s important to brush with fluoride toothpaste to carefully remove any food that may have gotten stuck in your braces and your retainer too. Without brushing daily, food and plaque can stain your teeth. A fluoride mouthwash maybe recommended, which can get into places in your mouth that a toothbrush can’t.

Caring for Retainers
Braces get quite a bit of attention when it comes to general maintenance. But retainers are just as important to brush — leaving your entire mouth feeling fresh.

A retainer in your mouth can collect food particles, saliva and other items that may carry or breed germs. Within time it will leave a bad odor in your mouth and cause bad breath. Surprisingly, a dirty retainer also can cause yeast infections, bacterial endocarditis, upper respiratory tract infections, wound infections, meningitis and gastrointestinal infections. All these problems can occur because of an unclean retainer.

Here are some basic steps in cleaning your retainer:

• Every time you brush your teeth, brush your retainer as well. Make sure you inspect it too.
• Once a day or at least once a week, you need to disinfect your retainer by soaking it in a denture cleanser, such as Efferdent or other brand name solutions. Add the cleanser to a cup full of warm – but never hot – water. Ask your dentist for recommendations on a dental product.
• Thoroughly rinse the retainer with plain water before placing it back in your mouth.
• Make sure you take your retainer to the dentist for a professional cleaning if you are unable to remove all the plaque. You may need a replacement.

If you have questions about cleaning your teeth, braces or retainers, contact our office. We are a Plymouth family dentistry that works with patients of all ages. Visit our office online or stop in and take a peek at our family-friendly office and meet our great staff.

What is an Oral Irrigator?

An oral irrigator, water piks or water flossers are devices that use a stream of pulsating water to remove plaque and food debris between teeth and below the gum line and improve gum health. These devices have been around for close to 50 years and was developed by a dentist and an engineer. Since that time, the water flossers have been evaluated in many studies which have shown effective on people in periodontal maintenance, and those with gingivitis, diabetes, orthodontic appliances, crowns, and implants. In fact, studies have demonstrated that it is superior to dental floss in reducing bleeding and as effective in reducing plaque.

How to Use a Water Flosser/Oral Irrigator

Most dentists will recommend beginners using a home dental irrigation to start on a lower power setting and then gradually increase the power as comfortable to at least the medium setting. Also, you should direct the water at a 90 percent angle to the teeth.

When you use this tool, you need to concentrate on the hidden areas between the teeth. Make sure you keep increasing the pressure higher and higher over time until you can comfortably use it at full power. It is most effective used at full power.

If you have questions about this type of treatment or whether you can benefit from it, you should consult your family dentist, like Wayzata Dental and SmileSpa. Come in for a consultation with our staff including our dentist, Dr. Jason McDowell. We are a Plymouth family dentistry that will make your dental check-ups and cleanings something you will actually look forward to.

Here are some things to think about:

Cost:
Although there are affordable powered toothbrush options, electric toothbrushes generally cost many times more than manual ones. You also need to remember that you will also need to replace the removable toothbrush head as often as you replace your regular toothbrush. Of course, if your family dentist is testifying that your teeth are cleaner than ever and “no cavities in sight,” than you will be making up for the expense with a reduction in dental bills.

Comfort:
Not all people like the feel of the vibrations on teeth or gums. Going to the hygienist may be all that you can withstand let alone using a toothbrush that reminds you of your checkups. When it comes down to it, the best toothbrush for you is going to be the one you’re most likely to use — and use well. Some people will love it — especially true for people with conditions that limit mobility, such as painful arthritis. Children will be able to clean their teeth easier as well.

Effectiveness:
Studies have been conducted to investigate whether manual or powered toothbrushes are more effective at reducing gum disease and eliminating plaque. However, there has not been a significant difference between electric and manual toothbrushes in their ability to remove plaque and prevent gum disease.

Safety:
If you are the type that tends to brush too vigorously, which can damage your gums and teeth, a powered toothbrush may make it easier for you to be gentle on your gums and teeth when cleaning. There are some research that says using an electric toothbrush may increase the amount of bacteria in the bloodstream rather than a manual type. For people with heart conditions, this could increase the likelihood of dangerous infection in the heart.

Regardless of whether you like manual or powered toothbrushes, you should discuss it with your family dentist. Wayzata Dental and SmileSpa is a Plymouth family dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. We can answer any of your dental care and dental hygiene questions. We specialize in making sure you always have a healthy, beautiful smile.

So how are you to determine what kind of toothbrush to get?

Here are two main characteristics you should look for:

• Size: For most adults, a toothbrush heads a half-inch wide and one-inch tall will be the easiest the most effective. Though there are larger toothbrush heads available, you may have a hard time reaching your molars and some tight spaces. The handle should be long enough for you to get a good grip.
• Bristle: Soft, medium, or hard nylon bristles are usually the choice. For the majority of people, a soft-bristled toothbrush is highly recommended. Most people brush pretty vigorously, and if a medium or hard bristle is use, it could damage your gums, roots and enamel.

As always, you should follow the advice of a family dentist such as Wayzata Dental and SmileSpa. We are a Plymouth family dentistry that focuses on the dental health of the entire family. We also specialize in cosmetic dentistry and whitening. You can make an appointment online or give us a call. You’ll enjoy the comforts of our office and the many benefits of being our patient. Come take a tour and meet us!

Braces, wires, springs, rubber bands, and other appliances on teeth can attract food and plaque, which can stain your teeth if not brushed away. Orthodontists and dentists recommend brushing after every meal or snack with fluoride toothpaste and carefully, with special tools, removing food stuck in your braces.

But you may say, “It’s hard to brush and especially floss while you are wearing braces!” It’s true. There are challenges in making sure you clean your teeth properly.

Here are some flossing and brushing tips for those of you with braces:

1. Feed the short end of the floss through the space between the main arch wire and the upper portion of the tooth closest to the gum. By using a gentle sawing motion, work the floss on each side of the two teeth the floss is between. Watch out! Be careful not to pull with too much force around the arch wire.
2. Brush your teeth by using a soft toothbrush. Brush down from the top and then up from the bottom on each tooth with braces. Next, brush your teeth with a proxabrush, which has the shape of a Christmas Tree. This brush is designed to get between two braces. Insert the brush down from the top and then up from the bottom between two braces.

Taking care of your teeth while wearing braces is extremely important. If you get cavities, there is a chance your orthodonist may have to remove a part of your braces for your dentist to take care of the decay. This is an extra financial cost as well as additional pain for you. Talk with your family dentist about the best way to clean your teeth with braces. The lesson is to take extra steps in maintaining your teeth while wearing braces. If you do, your teeth will be straight, healthy and shiny.

Yes, there is.

For the number one way to prevent tooth decay, proper brushing is absolutely important. Most people don’t realize that brushing should take at least two minutes. Most people feel a few seconds of quick brushing is good enough and won’t devote extra time. To get a good idea of how much time you spend taking care of your teeth, use a timer or a bathroom clock. Two minutes isn’t really that long.

How do you brush?
Do you know the actual technique to brushing your teeth? Most people don’t. Children should get into the habit of doing it correctly so they’ll develop the right techniques as adults. To properly brush your teeth, you need to use short and gentle strokes and pay extra attention to the gum line. Other areas that need attention are hard-to-reach teeth, areas around fillings, crowns or other areas with restoration.

Here are the basic steps to use:
• Start with the outer surfaces of your upper teeth, then move to the lower teeth
• Next, move to the inner surfaces of your upper teeth, then on to your lower teeth
• Then, move to cleaning the chewing surfaces
• Don’t forget about brushing your tongue for fresher breath.

When it comes to using toothbrushes, a soft-bristled brush is best for removing plaque. The tool that seems to make a difference for adults and children are powered toothbrushes — helping those who may have some problems with dexterity. Talk to you family dentist about other tools or ways to help maintain your teeth.

So, next time you pull your toothbrush out, remember that you should spend about 120 seconds on brushing. We all know that time goes by fast. Spending just a few minutes a day to take care of your own teeth may give you a lifetime of smiles.

It is highly recommended by all dentists to brush and floss regularly to keep plaque at bay. But, there are habits — or sins — you may have that hinder your battle against this enemy of the teeth.

Sin #1: Not Brushing
You are too tired to brush your teeth. Plus,who would know if you skipped tonight, right? Remember, it’s your teeth . . . the plaque will know and soon you will too.

Brushing your teeth gently twice a day, using a fluoride-containing toothpaste, is an easy solution.

Sin #2: Not Flossing
For the people who remember to brush, some may decide to skip the flossing. Too much work. But brushing doesn’t reach the spaces between teeth, but plaque does. Daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause problems later.

Flossing cleans plaque at the gum line. If you don’t floss, plaque may lead to periodontal disease..

Sin #3: Avoiding Dental Visits
You make the appointment and then reschedule it. That date comes, and then you cancel it again. Face it, you are avoiding the dentist. Even if you are excellent at taking care of your teeth, you’ll miss some plaque. Plaque will turn into tartar, which can only be treated professionally.

If you avoid visiting the dentist, you risk losing your teeth. Once a year teeth cleanings are considered the minimum, but dentists will tell you that you need to come twice a year to really take charge of your teeth.

Sin #4: Neglecting How Nature Can Help
A vet will tell you to give your dog a bone to clean its teeth. And, it’s true. Eating crunchy vegetables or fruit with can actually help to brush off plaque. Remember the saying, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away?” It meant the dentists too.

Sin #5: Too Many Sweets!
Too much sugar in any form will ruin your teeth because bacteria love simple carbohydrates. Too much candy and soda will damage teeth pretty quickly. Soft and sticky candy is especially a big no-no.

Life is busy. We all have things to do. But avoiding these habits and visiting your family dentist often can help you keep your teeth healthier and smiling more often.

The good news is that many of us are keeping our own teeth unlike our distant ancestors, who consistently lost a tooth here and there . . . . However, adults who are fortunate to have their own teeth (from previous good habits), are less likely to seek dental care as they grow older.

Here are some common explanations for this reluctance.

Dental anxiety and fear of pain. No one likes pain, including seniors. In a time of life where physical pain is common, the elderly are afraid of dental visits thinking that they will endure more pain.

Too old to worry about improving teeth. Many seniors feel that taking care of teeth is a cosmetic improvement and part of normal health care. The idea that “I’m too old to worry about my teeth” keeps them from attending preventative dental visits or even regular brushing.

Cost. Many seniors, because of their low fixed income, feel that they cannot afford dental care. Although there are affordable dental insurance that curbs the cost, some seniors will avoid it all together. What they don’t realize is that improper dental care can lead to other problems such as a stroke or a heart attack and possibly increased expenses.

Seniors have more issues with their teeth than children. Because of this, older adults may need to be reminded by their caretakers to use preventative measures like visiting their dentist and brushing regularly.

Do you have a family member who needs to make a dental visit and is reluctant? If so, Wayzata Dental is available to answer your questions. Call our office at 952-473-4900 or go online to request an appointment.

Getting old is a drab. But, no matter what stage of life you are in, dental care should always be a priority.

In order to find a permanent fix for sensitive teeth, you need to understand the causes. Unfortunately, while you think you are looking after your teeth, you could be the cause of those sensitive teeth. If you brush rigorously with a hard toothbrush, there is the risk of pushing the gums up. This exposes more of the tooth, and the portion of the tooth that is under the gums is more porous. Hot and cold will travel through this part of the tooth and effect the nerves in the tooth – hence the pain. Step one is to check your tooth brushing habits, and to switch to a softer toothbrush.

A good toothpaste can help to build a layer over these porous areas, however, once again, harsh brushing can also serve to remove that protective layer. Your dentist also has access to products that can be placed on your tooth to seal those sensitive areas. Fluoride is also useful for helping to build up a protective layer.

The bottom line is simple – harsh brushing generally leads to sensitive teeth. Change your brushing habits, see your dentist, and perhaps use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Over time, if you can modify your brushing, you can develop a seal over the sensitive parts of your teeth, and you will be able to eat and drink hot and cold foods.

Some teeth can be saved, however, the process may not be simple, or inexpensive. A front tooth that has significant decay could be a candidate for a crown. However, in preparing that tooth for a crown, the dentist may need to drill down into the root canal. This is in order to hold a post that would then support the crown. This can be expensive, and while the procedure itself could be successful, if you are not going to maintain good dental hygiene, there is a risk of infection, and a risk that, three or four years down the track, that tooth will be decayed again. Crowns don’t prevent decay from attacking any tooth that is still left in place.

When pulling a tooth, your dentist may recommend a bridge, a dental implant, or a partial denture to fill in the gap following the tooth’s extraction. You could have the tooth extracted and not do anything about the gap as well. These are all decisions that you will have to choose from.

Dentists cannot perform any procedure unless they have your specific permission to do so. Many years ago, a dentist would simply state, “this tooth needs extracting” or “this tooth needs filling”, and you would be expected to let them follow that recommendation – now, a dentist will discuss the range of options available to you, then act on your decision, and that includes if and when you have a tooth extracted.