Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry

Teeth whitening, also known as teeth bleaching, is an increasingly popular and prevalent dental procedure that takes an important place in cosmetic dentistry. With time, adult teeth experience changes in color because of changes in mineral structure, eating habits, tobacco, dark-colored beverages, and more. In addition to food choices, some medications can also cause tooth enamel to lose its brilliance, shine, and color. According to the Federation of Dental Association, bleaching whitens the teeth beyond the natural color.

While dental bleaching is often done professionally in the office of a dentist, several at-home remedies have emerged, making teeth whitening less harsh and less expensive.
Here are a few of the options for at-home tooth whitening.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is an excellent whitening agent that contains a variety of whitening properties making it an excellent dental bleaching agent. To attain the benefits of baking soda, just brush your teeth in a regular manner and get some toothpaste and baking soda on a cotton swab. Next, rub the mixture on your teeth and leave it for 5 minutes. Rinse and brush again in a regular manner. Repeating this on a regular basis can result in significant whitening and improved smoothness of teeth.

White Truffle Oil

Truffle oil has special properties within it to reduce yellowness present on the teeth, making them whiter and shiny. Similar to baking soda, all you need to do is just dip your toothbrush in white truffle oil and put some toothpaste on it. Brush your teeth in a regular manner. Repeat the process at least three times a day after meals. You will notice a considerable difference in the color of your teeth with less yellowness. Slowly and steadily, the yellowness disappears, resulting in white, shiny teeth.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide’s cleansing nature makes it an excellent agent to whiten teeth. Just dip your toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide and brush your teeth in a regular manner. Make sure you do not swallow the peroxide. Once done, rinse the mouth with warm water (another great tooth whitening agent). It is one of the most popular and commonly used methods to whiten teeth at home.

Olive Oil

Olive oil has been known to have properties to reduce stains on the teeth. It is especially beneficial for people who have developed stains on their teeth because of excessive smoking and tea or coffee. All you need to do is just put some olive oil on a washcloth and rub it on the stained teeth.

Sea Salt

Sea salt combined with water or cider vinegar can will brighten teeth a bit, but no more so than a commercial application. Just make a mixture and apply on teeth for 5 minutes or so. Make sure you do not use this method repeatedly as it may cause you to experience tooth damage through decay or increased sensitivity.

Raisins

Raisins can help to keep teeth white by stimulating the production of saliva, which naturally helps to rinse away plaque and impurities. Make sure you do not let raisins stick in between teeth as it can help the formation of cavities. Rinse your mouth immediately after having raisins.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits like oranges and pineapples can also stimulate the production of saliva, resulting in dissolving and rinsing plaque. These can be pretty useful in whitening teeth in the longer run. Rinsing teeth with 1:1 water and lemon juice solution once or twice a week can help. Remember, overdoing it can result in damage to the teeth.

So while you may not be able to afford a dental whitening, or are concerned with the health benefits associated with a strong chemical whitening, these tips can help you afford a gorgeous smile you will want to always be showing off.

For more information please contact Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry today!

It is important to help your child understand the importance of a consistent oral care routine. If a routine is established early on in their lives, it will be second nature for them for years to come. It isn’t always fun going to visit the dentist, but you and your child can have a much better time if you follow these easy tips!

Before your child even has teeth, you can get them in the habit of brushing. Silicone sleeves go over your finger that simulates brushing. Your child is already familiar with this since they use a bottle, but this reinforces the notion that brushing is a good thing. Scrubbing their gums will get them prepared for using a regular toothbrush when the time comes.

Next, it is important to set a time limit on brushing. Most adults are encouraged to brush for two to three minutes, so a song fits perfectly for children’s brushing. When your child gets old enough, you can have them select their favorite song and have them brush their teeth with it. Before then, choose something soothing that puts your child at ease while you get them ready for a lifetime of brushing.

When selecting a brush for your child, make sure to get an appropriately sized toothbrush. You don’t want to buy an adult toothbrush for your two-year-old. It will not work nearly as well as a children’s toothbrush. The sizing will make a huge difference in the comfort level of your child.

Brushing isn’t the only activity that will help take care of a child’s teeth. Flossing is important and is just as important as brushing. A toothbrush cannot get in between your teeth as floss can, and incorporating this into your child’s routine early on is critical. As soon as your child’s teeth begin to appear and touch one another, they need to start flossing. Flossing prevents cavities and other dental problems.

By starting early, you are reinforcing the idea that oral care is a fun and necessary activity to do each and every day. When your children are older, they will be thankful for the healthy habits you have taught them. If you have any questions regarding your child’s oral care routine, contact Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry today!

When it comes to dental care, there are so many different things to consider. Most of these decisions depend on what your situation is, what dental procedure you need and what would best take care of any dental issues you may have.

There are many services offered in the dental field, and the options available to you can be confusing. We wanted to break it down for you and make dental care less threatening and help you have the knowledge to make the appropriate decisions when it comes to dental care.

Here are some of the most common dental procedures and more information regarding them to help you make an informed and helpful decision:

Emergency Dental Care

There are several things that can happen that are classified as emergency dental care, here are a few of them and how to react in the best way possible. If your tooth becomes broken, chipped, or cracked; rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to your face. Go to the dentist right away. If the tooth was broken or chipped, bring the tooth fragment wrapped in wet gauze or a wet towel.

If your tooth becomes loose due to trauma, call your dentist. For a knocked-out tooth, gently insert the lost tooth back in its socket if possible, holding the tooth by the crown using a clean washcloth. (If the tooth is dirty, first rinse the root but do not scrub it or remove any attached tissues.) If reinsertion isn’t possible, hold the tooth under the tongue and go to the dentist immediately.

If your jaw is broken, first apply ice or a cold compress to the face. Seek emergency help immediately, for this situation a doctor may be your best emergency contact.
Clean the area with a wet cloth and place a cold compress on the area to reduce swelling if your tongue is bitten. If the bleeding persists or if it is excessive, go to your dentist or an emergency center.

Checkups

You should visit your dentist every six months for a cleaning and a checkup where the dentist will inspect your overall oral health, create a treatment plan, and help keep your teeth as healthy as possible.

Periodontal disease

Over 75% of Americans suffer from periodontal disease; most don’t even know it. Periodontal treatments depend on the type of gum disease and how severe it is. If the disease is caught early and no damage has been done to the supporting structures under the teeth, you may simply need professional cleaning. The dental team can give you a comprehensive plan for changing your dental routine and improving your daily oral hygiene.

Tooth extraction

Teeth often need to be removed due to decay, disease, or trauma. Having a tooth removed or “pulled” is called a tooth extraction. Before the extraction, you will be given an anesthetic to reduce your discomfort. There are many risks with tooth extraction, for more information visit this resource for a full explanation of potential issues:

Fillings

Most people need to have some kind of filling during their lifetime. Dental fillings are most commonly used to treat cavities, but they’re also used to repair cracked or broken teeth.

Most dental filling procedures go like the following steps:
1. A topical anesthetic is used to numb the area of treatment
2. Decay is removed from the affected teeth
3. Tooth restoration using a composite or other kinds of filling
4. Bite check to make sure your teeth align comfortably

With this knowledge, you can make the right decisions when it comes to your dental health, no matter what your dental needs are. For more information contact Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry today.

Our practice understands how much you want to care for your overall health. This also includes your teeth! Bad eating habits and poor oral hygiene can lead to cavities, tooth decay, and even overall health conditions. In between visits, at-home care is vital to reducing tooth decay.

We recommend the following tips to help keep you and your families’ smiles healthy for years to come!

Here are 8 Tips for a Healthy Mouth:

1. Brush twice a day.

When brushing your teeth, it is important to brush back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes. Tilt the brush vertically and make numerous up-and-down strokes to clean the inside surfaces of their front teeth. Ensure you are also brushing your tongue – this can eliminate bacteria and keep your breath fresh.

2. Replace your toothbrush at least every three months.

You should replace your toothbrush every three months to prevent the spread of bacteria.

3. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush that feels comfortable in your mouth.

Select a toothbrush with soft bristles that is an appropriate size for your smile; brushing too hard might wear down the enamel on your teeth or induce gum recession!

4. Rinse with water after brushing

After brushing, rinse with water to remove any loose bacteria or food!

5. Eat a balanced diet to promote good oral health

Reduce your intake of sugary foods and beverages since they can cause tooth decay — especially if you enjoy snacking!

6. Floss regularly.

Flossing helps prevent cavities and gum disease by removing plaque between teeth. Creating nightly dental routines at an early age!

7. If you have diabetes, maintain tight control over it through diet and exercise and see your doctor when you notice changes in how your mouth feels or looks.

Consuming nutritious foods provides your body with the vitamins and minerals it requires to maintain the health of all of its parts, including your mouth, teeth, and gums.

8. Get regular cleanings from a dentist

Routine dental visits can allow our team to keep an accurate benchmark on your overall oral health.

Your oral health is critical, and it needs considerable care. If you’re unclear about the best way to care for your oral health, contact Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry today to book an appointment. Our team can offer guidance and make product recommendations for your unique smile.

It is estimated that there are 50,000 new cases of oral cancer diagnosed every year within the United States. As dentists, we believe that raising awareness about oral cancer and associated symptoms can help you be prepared, and act quickly should you notice any of the signs. Early detection allows for more successful treatment rates.

What is Oral Cancer

Oral cancer, also known as oral cavity cancer or mouth cancer, is cancer that develops on the lips, inside the mouth, throat, and esophagus.

Oral cancer is divided into two groups: cancer that forms in the oral cavity or cancer that forms in the oropharynx. The oral cavity consists of the lips, cheek, the inside of the mouth, teeth, gums, tongue, and the floor and roof of the mouth. The oropharynx refers to the middle region of the throat and includes your tonsils and the base of the tongue.

Although an individual’s cause of cancer can be unclear, certain lifestyle factors can increase your risk of developing oral cancer. These lifestyle choices include tobacco usage, alcohol consumption, sun exposure, and protection against certain diseases such as HPV, or human papillomavirus. Other risks factors can include age, sex, and genetics.

Signs of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can occur anywhere in the mouth including the salivary glands, pharynx, larynx, and throat making it difficult to check on your own. However, common signs of oral cancer can include the following:

• Abnormal changes in your voice
• Chronic ear pain
• Chronic sore throat
• Difficulty chewing, talking, swallowing, or moving the tongue
• Feeling as though something is caught in your throat
• Flat patches of tissue that appear velvety in texture (may be different colors such as red or white)
• Numbness in the oral cavity
• Pain or tenderness in the mouth or lips
• Soft tissue that appears to be rough, thickening, or crusty
• Sores that do not heal
• Swelling in your mouth, throat, jaw, or lips
• Unusual lumps

These symptoms can apply to a variety of oral health conditions aside from oral cancer, so it is important to mention these symptoms to your dentist should you notice them. If these symptoms do not disappear within 7 to 14 days, seek immediate attention.

How Your Dentist Can Help

It can be difficult to self-examine your mouth and throat, fortunately, your dental team is trained to spot subtle signs of potential concerning conditions. During your routine appointments, your dentist conducts an oral cancer screening. These examinations are painless and quick but vital to ensuring your oral health.

Oral cancer screenings consist of checking the oral cavity–lips, cheek, lining, gums, tongue, and the floor of the mouth and roof of the mouth. We also examine the back section of the tongue, where the tongue attaches to the mouth, tonsils, and soft tissue of the throat. The last part of the screening involves feeling the jaw and neck for any abnormalities. We may also use dental x-rays to identify any risk of cancer.

During these appointments, if you’ve noticed any changes in your medical history or unusual symptoms related to your oral health, please bring them to the attention of the dentist.

Treatment

If your dentist notices anything, further testing will be done which may include imaging tests, endoscopy, and biopsy to analyze for cancerous cells. After a diagnosis is made, your dentist will work with the rest of your healthcare team to determine the best treatment options for your needs.

Treatment will depend on the location and stage of cancer as well as your overall health and personal preferences. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation treatment, and chemotherapy.

Lower Your Risk

Unfortunately, there are no proven ways to prevent cancer. However, by educating yourself on oral cancer and its warning signs you can make informed decisions on how to lower your risk of developing oral cancer.

Continue to see your dentist regularly to ensure you have the best oral health possible. We recommend patients visit the dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and check-up. Your dentist will conduct an oral cancer screening at each appointment. If you’ve noticed anything unusual since your last visit, be sure to mention it to your dentist

If you use tobacco, stop. If you don’t use tobacco, don’t start as using tobacco can expose your mouth to dangerous cancer-causing chemicals.

Maintain a good oral hygiene routine by brushing twice a day for at least two minutes a session and remembering to floss daily. Strengthen your oral health by eating a well-balanced diet full of colorful vegetables and fruits and limiting sweets.

Limit your alcohol consumption or stop drinking alcohol if possible. Excessive alcohol can irritate the cells in your mouth increasing your risk of developing mouth cancer. If you choose to drink, limit yourself to one drink a day.

Protect your lips by using a sunscreen lip balm and remembering to stand in the shade or use a wide-brimmed hat to protect you from the sun’s rays.

Studies show that certain strains of HPV, or the Human Papillomavirus, can increase your risk of developing oral cancer. Protect yourself by getting vaccinated.

As dentists, we pride ourselves on our ability to identify and treat areas of concern in your oral health, oral cancer included. Should anything be found, you can rest assured we will work with your entire healthcare team to determine the best course of treatment. By following these tips, you can lower your risk of developing oral cancer. For more information on oral cancer or to schedule an appointment, contact Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry today.

If you look under your tongue in the mirror, you’ll notice a small piece of tissue that connects your tongue to the bottom of your mouth–the frenulum. Around 10% of babies are born with a condition commonly known as tongue-tie, where the frenulum is shorter or thicker than average, limiting the motion of their tongue. If severe, this condition can interfere with a child’s ability to eat and speak as well as impact their oral health.

Tongue-Tie

Tongue-tie is a congenital condition, known as ankyloglossia, in which the lingual frenulum connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth may be shorter, thicker, or tighter than normal restricting the motion of the tongue.

In mild cases, treatment may not be necessary, however, it is possible for the condition to present difficulties later in the child’s life as they continue to grow and develop.

Signs & Symptoms

In mild cases, symptoms may not interfere with day-to-day activities but can worsen with age.

Mothers may notice their infant having difficulty latching or pain during nursing as the tongue-tie can prevent an adequate seal while breastfeeding causing the child to use their gums to feed. Other signs in infants may include breastfeeding for long periods, constant hunger, trouble gaining weight, or a clicking sound while feeding.

If the condition is not treated in childhood, the patient will adapt to living with the condition. Limited tongue mobility can lead to the following symptoms:

• Difficulty eating certain foods
• Mouth breathing
• Problems moving your tongue past your lower teeth
• Speech impediments

Conditions Associated with Tongue-Tie
Poor Oral Hygiene

Tongue-tie limits the tongue’s movement which can impact the way a person eats and swallows. This can affect the amount of saliva in the mouth which is crucial to helping wash away debris, oral bacteria, and plaque. In severe cases, tongue-tie can increase a patient’s risk for gum disease, tooth decay, and cavities.

Speech Impediments

As the child grows, speech impediments may occur as the restriction of the tongue can prevent proper articulation and may develop a lisp. Certain sounds such as “T”, “D”, “S”, “Z”, “Th”, “N”, “L” can be difficult to enunciate.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition in which the body stops breathing repeatedly during sleep. One of the causes of sleep apnea can be an underdeveloped palate commonly associated with patients with tongue-tie. Patients with tongue-tie can be at an increased risk of sleep apnea. Signs of sleep apnea include daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating.

TMJ Dysfunctions

If the movement of the tongue is restricted, the mouth will adapt to accommodate the limited range of motion. This can lead to improper development of the jaw, mouth, and palate which may impact tooth alignment. If these bones are narrower or smaller than average, you may be at risk of temporomandibular joint pain and dysfunctions which can include severe jaw and neck pain, headaches, popping sound when moving your jaw, and difficulty opening and closing your jaw.

Treatment

Although treatment is preferred as soon as possible during childhood, adults can still seek treatment to increase their quality of life. In mild cases, myofunctional therapy may be recommended which includes exercises to help improve control and strength of the tongue.

Surgical treatment is often used to treat tongue-tie. The procedure is known as frenotomy and is a quick and simple surgery. During the procedure, the area is numbed with a local anesthetic and the lingual frenulum is cut, freeing the tongue.

Complications are rare but can include bleeding, infection, scarring, and damaged salivary glands.

Following treatment, your doctor may recommend certain exercises that involve moving or holding your tongue in certain positions to strengthen the muscle.

If you believe you or a loved one may have a tongue-tie, we strongly encourage you to seek treatment if you struggle with the symptoms described above. For more information on tongue-tie and your treatment options or to schedule an appointment, contact Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry today.

When you start to have a toothache that won’t go away, it can make you feel lousy and miserable. This may be a sign of an infection or cavity. Tooth pain is not normal and should be evaluated by your dentist immediately. Left untreated, the infection may spread and lead to serious dental consequences.

What is an Abscessed Tooth?

An abscessed tooth, also known as a dental abscess, is a collection of pus that has formed around the tooth due to a bacterial infection. There are different types of abscesses depending on their location.

Types

A periapical abscess develops at the root of your tooth often from an infected cavity or fractured tooth. A periodontal abscess results from gum disease affecting the bone and soft tissues surrounding the tooth and develops in the gum pockets. Gingival abscesses develop on the gums but do not affect the surrounding soft tissue or tooth.

Causes

An abscessed tooth is caused by a bacterial infection. If an opening develops in your tooth or the surrounding tissues, the bacteria can enter the body and lead to infection. Severe tooth decay, cavities, fractured teeth, gum disease, and trauma to the gums and teeth can all increase your risk of developing a bacterial infection that can lead to an abscessed tooth.

Signs You May Have an Abscessed Tooth

The most visible sign is a swollen area or growth along the gums or tooth accompanied by a throbbing or sharp-shooting sensation of pain. Other symptoms of an abscessed tooth may include:

• Bad breath
• Bitter taste in the mouth
• Difficulty chewing, talking or opening your mouth
• Pain that spreads from the tooth, gums, jaw, ear, and neck
• Swollen or redness in gums
• Tender, discolored, or loose teeth
• Tooth sensitivity

In severe cases or if the infection spreads, you may also experience headaches, swollen lymph nodes, achiness, and fever.

Treatment Options

Treatment for an abscessed tooth focuses on relieving symptoms, eliminating the infection, and treating the cause.

It is important to seek treatment as dental abscesses do not disappear on their own, even if the abscess ruptures and the pus is drained, the infection can remain. The bacteria will continue to spread and destroy surrounding tissue.

Your dentist may recommend using a diagnostic imaging test to confirm your diagnosis such as an X-ray or CT scan. These tests can identify the location of the infection and possible cause as well as show any other areas that may be affected.

Your treatment options will depend on the location and severity of the infection. Possible treatment options can include:

• Incision and drainage – Your dentist will make an incision on the abscess to drain the pus. This will allow for immediate relief of symptoms. Medication will be used to treat the infection.
• Root canal – If your tooth’s inner pulp becomes infected, a root canal may be performed to remove the infected pulp and your tooth restored using a crown.
• Tooth extraction – If your tooth is too damaged from the infection, your dentist may remove it and replace it with an implant, fixed bridge, or denture.
• Antibiotics –Antibiotics will be used to help your body fight off the infection once your abscess has been drained.
• Removal of foreign body – If your abscess was caused by a foreign body wedge in your gums or between your teeth, your dentist will remove the object and disinfect the area.

You can reduce your risk of developing an abscessed tooth by attending routine cleanings and check-ups by your dentist. If you notice any tooth pain or if you damage your tooth, see your dentist. For more information on dental abscesses or to schedule an appointment, contact Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry today.

October is the start of fall and holiday season for many of our patients and can be full of fun activities and events. From costume parties, get-togethers, trick-or-treating, and parades, there is tons of fun to be had–but we also want you to be healthy and safe! This month we want to do our part in making sure you keep your smile cavity-free this October with our dental tips!

Cavities and Candy

Do dentists hate candy? Of course not! In fact, studies show that over 76% of dental offices hand out candy every year during the month of October–but we also put a toothbrush and toothpaste in the bag! We know it is an uphill battle to tell our patients to not eat candy. However, as professionals in oral health we know that the October sugar rush can easily impact your oral health.

Is candy really that bad for your health? No, candy can be okay in moderation, but it can quickly become a sticky situation! The bacteria in your mouth love sweets as much as you and while you eat, they feed on the sugar in food and turn it into acid. Eating a lot of candy at once increases the amount of acid being made in your mouth, and this acid attacks and breaks down the protective enamel layer of your teeth raising your risk of tooth decay. The longer the sugar is in your mouth, the more acid is produced, and the longer your teeth are exposed the higher your chance of cavities!

Cavities that are left untreated can reach deep within the tooth, cause infection, and eventually kill your teeth. This will cause the infected tooth to rot, fall out, and often need to be removed to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria or infection.

Our October Tips

This October, you might come across a lot of tempting treats, and here are a few tips to help have a healthy and happy fall.

Sort Your Candy

If you have a lot of candy on your hands, sort it into two groups. One group should contain all the sticky, chewy, hard, and sour candies. Put everything else in the second group. The sticky, chewy, hard, and sour candies will lead to more acidity in your mouth if you eat a lot of them at once. Be sure to balance it out and choose your candy wisely.

Candy Check-In

Candy is safe when eaten in moderation. Limit yourself to 8-10 small pieces a sitting and keep the wrappers in front of you so you know how many you’ve had. We recommend eating candy after a full meal or as an afternoon snack so you aren’t filling up sugar. Always follow your candy time with a glass of water to rinse away excess sugar.

Don’t Forget to Brush

After eating all those sweets, don’t forget to brush your teeth. If you can’t brush, make sure to drink plenty of water. Once you are home though, brush for at least two minutes with ADA-approved toothpaste. Floss between your teeth in hard-to-reach places to make sure there is no candy or food stuck anywhere.

With the holidays approaching, we hope these tips keep you cavity-free this October. Finish the year off right by contacting our office to learn how to stay cavity clear or to schedule your next appointment. Happy Fall from Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry!

Did you know that over 60 million Americans struggle with gum disease annually? September is National Gum Care Month! Good oral health care is important every month of the year, but during September we focus on educating patients about the importance of your gum’s health and preventing gum disease.

Why is Gum Care Important?

When imagining dental health, teeth seem to be the primary focus– but your gums are equally important! Gums protect your teeth by securing the roots of your teeth which allows your teeth to function optimally. Improper gum care can damage your teeth and put you at risk of developing gum disease. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is the infection and irritation of gums and soft tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is classified into two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and is often painless and occurs when plaque is not removed consistently from your teeth. Fortunately, this stage can be revisable with proper dental cleanings and better oral hygiene habits.

Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gum disease and occurs when toxins from the bacterial plaque begin to spread not only into the gums but bones and ligaments that support your teeth. Over time it can lead to the loss of tissue and bone, causing your teeth to loosen and begin shifting. This stage of gum disease is not reversible and can only be managed through professional dental treatment which may involve surgery if severe.

Signs of Gum Disease

• Bad breath or taste in the mouth
• Changes in how your upper and lower teeth fit together
• Gaps or pockets along your gum line near your teeth
• Gums that bleed easily
• Gums that have recessed or pulled away from teeth, exposing roots
• Permanent teeth that begin to separate or become loose
• Red, swollen, or tender gums

See your dentist if you suspect you may be developing gum disease. The sooner you are
diagnosed and begin treatment, the higher your chance of successful treatment and recovery.

Lower Your Risk

Follow these dental recommendations to lower your risk of developing gum disease:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes. Remember to brush at an angle on every surface of your teeth as well as along and around your gum line.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3 months or once the bristles become worn
• Floss once a day to remove bacteria, plaque, and food debris that your toothbrush can’t reach
• Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to remove unwanted bacteria
• Schedule and attend routine dental exams and cleanings to monitor your oral health
• Eat a well-balanced diet
• Drink plenty of water daily

If you have an underlying medical condition such as diabetes, speak with your dentist about how your condition can be affected by your oral health and ways to lower your risk of gum disease.

For more information on caring for your gums and how we can help or to schedule an appointment, contact Viet Ho Prothodontics and Implant Dentistry today.

As summer ends, we want to remind you to schedule a dental exam! Though you know brushing and flossing are essential, so are regular and routine dental exams. During your exam, we do more than clean your teeth… We also make sure your oral health is in check! You may wonder, if you brush and floss regularly, why do you need to visit the dentist every six months?

Dental Exams

During your dental exam, we examine the health of your gums and search for any indications of oral cancer, bad breath, plaque, tartar, gum disease, or cavities. We may also ask you to bite down so we can see your bite and the movement of your jaw. Your dentist will also check for signs of gum disease, loose or damaged teeth, fillings, and any dental appliances you may have.

We may recommend x-rays depending on your age, risks of disease, or symptoms. X-rays help us to diagnose problems that we can’t see on the surface such as impacted teeth, cysts, bone decay, and swelling. Our x-ray machines emit virtually no radiation, but as a precaution, we continue to insist patients wear lead aprons when necessary. Panoramic x-rays can capture a complete view of your upper and lower jaw within a single image.

The last stage of your dental exam is professional cleaning. Using specialized tools, we will remove plaque and tartar buildup. Even if you brush twice a day and floss daily, the buildup can occur where your cleaning can’t reach and be tougher to remove than your brushes and floss can handle. If the plaque isn’t removed, it can develop into tartar which can increase your risk of gum disease and tooth decay. After removing any build-up and plaque, we may polish your teeth using a dental paste that gently removes surface stains from your teeth.

After your exam, we will go over your oral hygiene habits to ensure you maintain a happy and healthy smile. If any treatment is needed, we will discuss your options and schedule them for a later date. Between each visit it is important that you continue to practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using a mouthwash.

Why should I visit every six months?

We recommend patients visit the dentist’s office every six months so that we can monitor your oral health regularly. If untreated, these conditions can worsen and may develop into more serious conditions.

If you are experiencing any pain, signs of bleeding, dry mouth, or notice unusual symptoms such as spots or sores in your mouth, please contact our office right away.

We encourage dental exams every six months to allow us to diagnose and treat any problems early before they become serious. Keeping a dental appointment may not seem important if you aren’t experiencing any pain, but you don’t want to skip an appointment as it can greatly affect your oral health. For more information on dental exams or to schedule an appointment, contact Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry today.