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7 Ways to Maintain Your Dental Health this Fall

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Your dental health matters! This fall, there are many things you can do to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Your dentist in Sugar Land, TX, can help you with this. Below, we’ve listed seven ways to maintain healthy teeth and gums. If you have questions, contact your dentist at First Dental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. We’re here to help!

1. Time Your Toothbrushing

Did you know you’re supposed to brush your teeth for two minutes each time? You can time yourself by setting an alarm on your phone, or by using a 2-minute sand timer. Either way, avoid brushing for longer than two minutes, to protect your gums.

2. Upgrade Your Toothbrush

If you’re using a manual toothbrush, consider switching to an electric toothbrush. Many electric toothbrush models are more effective at removing plaque and tartar from the teeth. Many electric toothbrushes also shut off after two minutes, so you won’t accidentally brush for too long.

3. Get Rid of Sugar

Avoid keeping sugary snacks in your house. Stock up on sugar-free snacks like boiled eggs, cheese with crackers, and nuts. When you need to munch on something, grab the carrot sticks instead of the candy bar!

4. Consider When You Last Saw the Dentist

Make an appointment to see the dentist every six months. If it’s been longer than six months since you last saw the dentist, make your next appointment now.

5. Change the Way You Treat Your Teeth

Teeth can be damaged more easily than you think. Avoid chewing on non-food items like ice chips or your finger nails. Also, take care not to brush your teeth too hard. Brushing too hard can cause gum recession.

6. Avoid Hard and Sticky Candies

Hard candies and sticky candies (like caramel) are especially bad for your teeth. These sugary snacks are hard to remove from your teeth when brushing.

7. Watch for Signs of Dental Trouble

Are you noticing signs of a dental problem, like tooth pain or bad breath? Make an appointment for a dental checkup in Sugar Land, TX. Call First Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry today.

What Happens If You Don’t Floss Your Teeth?

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No one likes to floss their teeth. So why bother? Your dentist in Sugar Land, TX, will tell you why. And you’re not going to like it! Keep reading to learn what happens when you don’t floss.

If you choose not to floss your teeth regularly (or at all), you can expect one or more consequences.

Bleeding Gums

When you don’t floss, plaque will build up on your gums. This causes inflammation, which leads to bleeding gums. Then you will need to schedule a dental exam in Sugar Land, TX to fix them.

Bad Breath

When you don’t floss, food particles remain stuck between your teeth. That food is then broken down by bacteria. Your mouth will then produce sulfur compounds, leading to bad breath.

Loose Teeth

When you don’t floss, your mouth accumulates bacteria. That bacteria will cause inflammation. Then, that inflammation causes the collagen and fibers that hold your teeth together to break down. And that will eventually cause your teeth to become loose and/or fall out.

Chronic Health Problems

When you don’t floss, you risk oral bacteria spreading to other parts of your body. This could result in any number of chronic health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and even weight gain.

Pneumonia

If you don’t floss, bacteria and a buildup of pathogens occur between your teeth. Your mouth leads to your lungs. So, the buildup of bacteria and pathogens can cause pneumonia.

Pregnancy Issues

If you’re pregnant and don’t floss your teeth, the buildup of oral bacteria can spread to your developing baby. This is because that bacteria will be absorbed into your bloodstream and spread throughout your body.

Increased Chances of Getting HPV

Believe it or not, if you don’t floss your teeth, you up your chances of getting HPV. The CDC did a study that found people who don’t take care of their oral health are twice as likely to get HPV than those who do.

Looking for a Dentist in Sugar Land, TX?

Routine dental appointments are a must if you want to preserve your oral health. Please Contact First Dental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today to schedule an exam. You don’t want to risk losing your teeth! So take care of them now to avoid problems later.

4 Good Dental Habits to Work On In 2024  

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It’s important to maintain good dental habits so you can take good care of your teeth. There are many things that you can do to ensure that your teeth are in good condition. If you’re not taking the best care of your teeth, 2024 is the year to start. Work with your dentist in Sugarland, TX, to take better care of your teeth.

1. Brush Up Your Toothbrushing Technique

Using correct tooth-brushing techniques is important. Many people scrub their teeth too hard, use the wrong kind of toothbrush, or brush their teeth for too short a period of time. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to brush your teeth gently for two minutes each time. If you have an electric toothbrush, that’s even better. Electric toothbrushes are shown to be more effective at removing plaque.

2. Make a Commitment to Remembering Both Dental Appointments

Most dentists recommend that their patients come for dental checkups twice per year. If you have a hard time remembering to make those dental appointments twice yearly, take steps to remind yourself when the time comes to make another appointment. Some suggestions:

  • Mark your calendar when it’s time to call the dentist.
  • Download a task/organizer app that will help you remember to make your dental appointments.

Don’t wait to make your two dental appointments in 2024. Stretching out the time between dental appointments just leads to more dental calculus buildup on your teeth and can lead to more problems down the road.

3. Eat Less Sugar

Sugar is bad for your teeth and can lead to problems like dental decay, cavities, and infection. Make a commitment to eat less sugar by eating more sugarless treats. This may mean buying sugar-free candies, or it could mean eating more foods like nuts.

4. Consume More Crunchy Fruits and Veggies

There are many foods that are good for your teeth, and that’s especially true of crunchy fruits and vegetables. Crunchy fruits and vegetables stimulate saliva production and stimulate your gums, which helps keep your teeth clean and healthy. In addition, fruits and vegetables contain vitamins that are good for your tooth enamel.

Want more information about how you can keep your teeth clean? Make a dental checkup in Sugarland, TX, with First Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. Call today.

 

Why Your Dentist May Recommend a Tooth Extraction  

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While nobody wants to have a tooth pulled, sometimes extraction is the best solution. This may be true if you’ve recently suffered dental trauma or if you have a tooth that is too damaged for your dentist to repair. The pain and discomfort caused by damaged teeth can feel unbearable, and your dentist will always try to save your natural tooth. There may be instances, however, when your dentist in Sugar Land, TX, recommends extraction. There are several reasons why.

Your Tooth Is Impacted

An impacted tooth is one that is “stuck” beneath the gumline. For some reason, it’s unable to erupt. Usually, this is because it’s positioned wrong, causing it to bump up against an existing tooth. In this instance, extracting the impacted tooth may be the best solution. This is often the case when wisdom teeth are involved. Pulling the impacted tooth relieves pain and prevents damage to the tooth that is already through.

Your Teeth Are Crowded

If you have a small jaw, if you have one or more teeth that are unusually large, or if you have extra teeth, your smile may appear crowded. When this happens, teeth may push together in odd ways, causing them to twist or overlap. If you have crowded teeth, your dentist may recommend having one or more extracted to allow the others more room to spread out in an even pattern.

Your Damaged Tooth Can’t Be Saved

Trauma, dental caries, and gum disease may cause teeth to be too loose or too damaged to be saved. While many damaged teeth can be stabilized by adding crowns or cleaning of infection by a root canal, sometimes these procedures aren’t enough to save the tooth. In this situation, your dentist may recommend extracting and replacing the affected tooth with a bridge or dental implant.

If you need more information on tooth extraction in Sugar Land, TX, call First Dental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today. When you call First Dental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry to schedule a consultation or exam, you’ll speak with our friendly and knowledgeable team member. We’re happy to set up a convenient time for you to come in, and we’re always happy to answer any questions you may have regarding your family’s dental health. Contact us today to learn more.

How Can I Tell If My Tooth Is Cracked?

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A cracked tooth can be a serious problem, so catching it in the early stages is important. If you have a cracked tooth, seeing the dentist in Castle Rock, CO can help you get the treatment you need as soon as possible. Your dentist can help repair your tooth and determine whether you need intensive intervention to keep your teeth healthy.

Signs of a Cracked Tooth

If you have a cracked tooth, you’ll notice some of the following problems:

  • Intermittent pain, especially when biting down
  • Sensitivity to extreme temperatures
  • Sensitivity to sweet foods

You may also notice an actual crack in your tooth enamel. Some cracks are easily visible, and some cracks are not visible at all. Keep in mind that just because you don’t see a crack in your tooth, this doesn’t mean that a crack is not there. Your dentist can help you determine whether your problem is a cracked tooth or something with similar symptoms.

What Does It Mean if You Have a Cracked Tooth?

If you have a cracked tooth, you could be at risk for a problem like an infection. Bacteria that gets into your tooth via the crack can cause the pulp in the tooth to become infected. When this happens, this can create a dental emergency. An infected tooth is a very painful condition that can lead to a tooth extraction or loss of a permanent tooth if the problem is not resolved.

This is why it’s very important to see the dentist as soon as a crack in the tooth enamel has been identified. Even if you have not seen a crack in the tooth enamel, it’s important to visit the dentist if you have the symptoms. Your dentist can diagnose your condition and recommend treatment.

What Should You Do About Your Cracked Tooth?

A cracked tooth can be a serious problem. It needs attention right away to avoid a painful infection. If you have a cracked tooth, you may need dental bonding in Castle Rock, CO. Call First Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry today to make an appointment.

5 Ways to Calm Your Nerves About Going to the Dentist

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Are you nervous about seeing the dentist in Sugar Land, TX? You’re not alone. Some patients just don’t feel comfortable in the dentist chair. It’s still important to see the dentist, but you can make the experience better overall by working with your dental professional and by following these tips below.

1. Bring a podcast or music to listen to.

One way to take your mind off your anxieties about seeing the dentist is to give yourself something else to think about while your dentist is cleaning your teeth. Bring favorite music or a favorite podcast, so you can listen to the rhythm or the interesting topic of the day, and hopefully your dental appointment will be over before you know it.

2. Tell your dentist about how you feel.

Many dentists have strategies they use when they’re seeing a patient that has dental anxiety. Telling your dentist how you feel is the first step to learning more about these strategies. Help your dentist help you by telling your dentist about your concerns. What are you afraid of? Tell your dentist up front and see what your dentist suggests for future visits.

3. Try deep breathing and meditation.

Deep breathing and meditation can help calm your nerves and take your mind off your concerns about seeing the dentist. If you’ve never tried deep breathing and meditation before, try guided meditation to help you get started.

4. Listen to guided imagery.

Guided imagery helps you form pictures in your mind. Like the podcast or music, guided imagery can help you take your mind off your concerns, which in turn can help you feel calmer while you’re in the dentist chair.

5. Signal when you need a break.

Taking a break can help you feel better when your anxiety is peaking. Set up a signal with your dentist that indicates you need a break.

At First Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re happy to help patients who feel some dental anxiety. We’re here for you! To find out more about how we help patients who feel anxious about seeing the dentist during routine dental appointments in Sugar Land, TX, call today.

 

5 Ways to Maintain Good Dental Health this Summer

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Do you want to take good care of your teeth this summer? There are many things you can do to make this happen. From seeing the dentist in Sugarland, TX to working hard on your oral health at home, you can go the extra mile to maintain clean, healthy teeth all summer long. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Maintain Good Oral Health At Home

The oral hygiene routine you maintain at home plays an important role in your overall oral health and wellness.

  • Brush your teeth twice daily. Brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes at a time. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles, and don’t push too hard when you’re brushing.
  • Floss once daily. Flossing once daily can help keep the bacteria out of the spaces between your teeth, and can help improve your gum health.

2. Brush Your Teeth With An Electric Toothbrush

Switch out your manual toothbrush for an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes have been shown to promote better oral health for users. In fact, people who use an electric toothbrush have been shown to keep their teeth for longer. Why?

Most electric toothbrushes have an oscillating head that just cleans teeth better. Electric toothbrushes also come with features that help you clean your teeth better, like a timer that ensures your tooth brushing stops after two minutes.

3. See the Dentist for a Dental Cleaning

If you haven’t been to the dentist yet in the last 6 months, go! Going to the dentist two times per year helps keep your teeth clean and prevents plaque from building up on your teeth. Going to the dentist two times per year also helps catch oral health problems in their early stages, so they can be fixed before they become a bigger problem.

4. Get a Brushing and Flossing Tutorial from Your Dentist

When you go to the dentist for your cleaning, ask your dentist to show you how to brush and floss properly. Getting a tutorial will help you build up your oral hygiene skills and take better care of your teeth.

5. Eat Foods That Are Good for Your Teeth

Want to know more about maintaining good oral hygiene in Sugarland, TX? Contact First Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. We can answer your questions and give you advice at your next appointment.

Is Your Baby Teething? What to Know

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Do you have a new baby in the house? Not long from now, your baby will start teething. While it can be an exciting time to know that your baby will soon grow new teeth, it can also be an uncomfortable time for your baby. As a parent, there are many things you can do to alleviate your baby’s discomfort, if you recognize the signs of teething. Here’s what you need to know.

Signs Your Baby Is Teething

Babies react to teething in many ways, with some displaying all or some of the symptoms below. Some babies have no noticeable symptoms while teething.

  • Red, swollen gums
  • One cheek is flushed
  • Rash on the face, around the chin
  • Excessive drool
  • Gnawing and chewing on everything
  • Rubbing their ear
  • Mild fever

While teething, your baby will likely be fussier than usual and may have a hard time sleeping. Luckily, teething only lasts a few days for most kids!

When Do Babies Get Their First Teeth?

Babies tend to get their first teeth between ages 5 and 7 months. Most babies get their bottom incisors first, followed by their upper incisors.

How Can You Alleviate Discomfort?

Rubber teething toys may provide some relief to your child. You can also help your baby by rubbing their gums with your finger, or by allowing them to chew on your finger. Wash your hands!

Some doctors recommend infant acetaminophen for teething. Talk to your child’s doctor before giving this to your child.

When Should Your Baby See the Dentist?

Bring your baby to see the dentist in Sugar Land, TX when their first tooth erupts, or when they turn one year old, whichever comes first. Bringing your baby to see the dentist can help set your child up for a lifetime of good oral hygiene.

When you bring your baby in to the dentist, we’ll examine your child’s tooth and give you information about what you can do to keep your baby’s teeth clean. We’ll show you how to brush their teeth and give other tips.

At First Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re proud to provide pediatric dental care in Sugar Land, TX. Call today to make an appointment.

Does Your Child Need Dental Sealants?

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Even the most conscientious parent can’t watch over their child every minute of the day. And even if you’ve taught your little ones to brush and floss regularly, there may still be those times when they forget. Fortunately, your dentist in Sugar Land, TX, has a backup plan — at least for those hard-to-reach back molars. Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings that help guard against decay when your child forgets to brush. As a parent, there are things you need to know about dental sealants.

Dental Sealants Reduce the Risk of Cavities

Dental sealants can reduce the risk of tooth decay by as much as 80 percent, says the American Dental Association. In fact, school-age children who don’t have dental sealants have roughly three times more instances of cavities than children who do have them. That’s an impressive number. And because tooth decay can lead to painful toothaches, chronic bad breath, and other negative outcomes, you’ll want to help your child avoid it as much as possible. That’s where dental sealants can help.

Dental Sealants Are Made of Medical-Grade Resin

Dental sealants are made of medical-grade resin. This is similar to the material your dentist uses to fill your tooth. They’re applied using a brush and then hardened off using an LED blue light. Once cured, they protect the delicate enamel of teeth from damage and decay for several years. Your child will still need to brush and floss regularly, and you’ll want to keep regular appointments with your pediatric dentist. But the sealants add an extra layer of protection for those lumpy and bumpy back molars that are so hard to clean.

Dental Sealants Are Safe

Dental sealants are safe for use in children and adults. Modern versions are BPA-free, and they’re applied in such a way that the liquid runs into little cracks and crevices in your child’s molars. This effectively ‘seals’ them from the food debris that causes tooth decay.

If you’d like more information on the many benefits of dental sealants in Sugar Land, TX, call First Dental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today. Our friendly and experienced team will be happy to schedule a time that’s convenient for you.

 

The 5 Most Common Causes of Tooth Enamel Loss

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Are you wondering how you can prevent tooth enamel loss in Sugar Land, TX? We are here to give you the most common causes of tooth enamel loss and what you can do to prevent it.

Here are five of the most common causes of tooth enamel loss and what you can do to prevent it.

1. Poor Dental Hygiene

Your mouth contains about 700 species of bacteria. Most are harmless and others help with digestion. However, there are some that cause tooth decay and gum disease. Therefore, you need to brush and floss at least twice a day or this bad bacteria will erode your tooth enamel.

2. Food and Diet

Your dentist in Sugar Land, TX will tell you that one of the main culprits of tooth enamel loss comes from your diet and the acids in the foods and drinks you consume. Your saliva is designed to neutralize the acid in your mouth which, in turn, helps protect your teeth. However, if you consume too many acidic foods and drinks, then you don’t brush your teeth correctly, the exterior layer of enamel on your teeth will degrade over time.

Here are the most common items that cause tooth enamel loss when consumed.

  • Sugary foods like candy, ice cream, syrups, etc.
  • Starchy foods like bread.
  • Carbonated sodas, in addition to the sugar it has in them, also contain citric acid and phosphoric acid as well.
  • Citrus fruits and excessive vitamin C.
  • Fruit juices and other fruity drinks.

3. Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding is another major cause of tooth enamel loss. Talk with your dentist in Sugar Land, TX for information about how to prevent teeth grinding.

4. Acid Reflux

Acid reflux disease or gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) is a condition where your stomach acids back up into your mouth throughout the day. This constant gastric acid can cause the loss of your tooth enamel.

5. Using the Wrong Mouthwash

The mouthwash ingredient chlorhexidine gluconate is used in germicidal mouthwashes as a disinfectant and antiseptic. And while it works quite well for that, it is also known to increase the formation of tarter on your teeth which could affect your tooth enamel.

What’s Next?

If you want more information about how to prevent tooth enamel loss, please Contact First Dental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today. We have been bringing healthy, beautiful smiles to Texas since 1997 and we look forward to serving you too!