Why Daily Flossing is So Important

Dr. Melcher and his staff of dental hygienists have heard all of the excuses as to why patients don't floss. They range from, "I forget" to "It's a pain" to "I brush really well!"

Regardless of the reason, not flossing is inexcusable, because it is a vital part of maintaining the best dental health possible. The American Dental Association suggests that we floss at least once a day in order to keep teeth and gums healthy and bacteria free. If you think brushing alone is enough think again:

• Simply brushing, even combined with swishing with a dental rinse just can not remove all of the food particles and plaque that collects between the teeth.
• Flossing reaches the nooks and crannies that a toothbrush can not.
• Patients who fail to floss run the risk of allowing plaque to harden into even tougher to remove tartar, which then promotes tooth decay.
• Flossing prevents gum disease and cavities. It also helps condition the gums and keep them healthy and strong.
• Some people have teeth that are "food trappers". When flossing is not routine, food particles remain lodged between the teeth and cause the growth of bacteria and bad breath!

To make flossing a part of your daily routine, experiment with several different types of floss and flossers. There are flavored, waxed, and easy glide nylon dental flosses available. Disposable, plastic flossers are handy to keep in a purse, briefcase, or gym bag. Another product that some patients like is a wooden plaque remover, also known as an interdental cleaner. For teeth that are difficult to get in between, it may be necessary to use "threaders," that allow one to loop the floss and access tight spaces.

If flossing hurts, or your gums bleed, do not be concerned right away. Sometimes it takes a week or two for your gums to toughen up. If pain or discomfort persists beyond two weeks, schedule an appointment with Dr. Melcher.

Just like anything that becomes part of our routine, we may take shortcuts from time to time. However, with flossing, there are tried and true ways to receive the most benefits. That's why even if you have been flossing for years, it is a great idea to have one of our hygienists demonstrate the most effective flossing techniques.

Need more convincing? See our earlier post about The Importance of Flossing.

Remember that flossing is not just for adults. Young children need to learn the importance of flossing as well. A good rule of thumb is to discuss flossing and show them how when youngsters have two teeth that touch. Plastic flossers are usually easier for small children to use and these days come in enticing shapes and colors!

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call our Raleigh office at 919-782-0548.

Tips for Treating Sensitive Teeth

As we age, so do our teeth. A common complaint among many adults is that of discomfort when eating or drinking certain foods. Sometimes, hot or cold foods can trigger dental pain. Also, sweet foods, brushing, flossing and exposure to air, may result in an aggravating, uncomfortable sensation. This is referred to as dental sensitivity.

Teeth can become sensitive for a number of reasons. The explanation may be one or a combination of the following:

• Exposed tooth root
• Worn fillings
• Cracked teeth
• Tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Breakdown in tooth enamel

Again, any of the above or combinations of those conditions, can result in pain and discomfort. The good news is that Dr. Simon Melcher and his skilled team of dental professionals offer a variety of ways to treat this all too common condition.

The first matter of business will be to identify the cause. Next, depending on what factors are causing the sensitivity, one or more of the following may be in order:

• Dr. Melcher may feel the problem could be best remedied with a desensitizing toothpaste. This treatment involves the application of a special toothpaste that contains compounds that prohibit uncomfortable sensations such as heat or cold, from penetrating either or both the tooth enamel and root.
• Another effective solution is the in-office application of a fluoride gel. These products serve to strengthen the enamel, which in turn eliminates discomfort.
• When a tooth is sensitive due to a crack or decay, a crown or inlay bonding is the best choice to correct the problem.
• Sensitivity that is caused by compromised gums may be treated with a surgical gum graft. This is an effective treatment plan for patients who have lost gum tissue at the root level.
• For patients that have severe and persistent sensitivity that other methods can not cure, a root canal is often the best bet.

Please do not ignore dental issues. You do not have to live with pain or discomfort. Contact our office to make an appointment by calling: (919) 782-0548.

Take a Virtual Tour of Our Office in Raleigh

If you're a new patient or a potential new patient and have never been to our office in Raleigh before, then you may appreciate taking a virtual tour through the convenience of your computer screen.  Enjoy!

When Will My Child Lose His or Her Baby Teeth?

Just after the excitement has worn off about them all coming in, your child will begin to lose their baby teeth between the ages of 5 and 6. It’s a funny thing that the first teeth that come out are typically the ones that came in first. So, watch out for loose front teeth along the upper and lower rows. Following those first four top and bottom teeth, the ones that usually follow are the lateral incisors, first molars, canines, and the second molars.

Children can also lose teeth due to injury or tooth decay. When a tooth comes out before it should, crowding can occur and could force other permanent teeth to come in crooked. This is why it is oh so important to take very good care of the baby teeth. The dental hygiene habits and overall dental health established at an early age sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums, or not! As a parent, it is your responsibility to make sure that:

• Your child brushes twice each day-this activity should be supervised by you. To make it easier and more fun, consider using an hourglass egg timer, a cool toothbrush and learning a few songs or poems about brushing, like this:
• Your teeth are important - they help you to chew,
• They help you to smile and say, "How do you do?"
• Be sure to take care of them morning and night
• By brushing and flossing, you'll keep your teeth bright.
• Make sure your child flosses each night before going to bed.
• Limit in-between meal snacks and do not allow your child to have sugary drinks, candy, or an excessive amount of sweets and processed foods. Think of healthy fruit, vegetable and whole grain options. You will be setting them up for success if you do this simple thing!
• Schedule regular trips to the dentist and discuss with your doctor or hygienist the choices of fluoride treatments and sealants.

When those first baby teeth become loose, they are the focus of all of your child’s attention. It can be an exciting time since this milestone usually means a visit from the “Tooth Fairy”. However, it can also cause a child anxiety as they worry about the pain they could experience when the tooth comes out. If your child begs you to help them pull a loose tooth, follow this procedure:

• Wash your hands thoroughly.
• Have your child take a seat, and you get down to their level.
• Hold plain tissue or gauze between your thumb and index finger so you can firmly grasp the tooth-Warn your child not to be afraid and that a little blood is no problem.
• A quick twist should do it!
• For teeth that are resistant, tell your child it is not time. Keep an eye on it, and schedule a visit to the dentist if it does not come out on its own.

As you wait to hear, “I’ve got a loose tooth!”, be aware that little girls usually lose their teeth before boys their age. Overall, the last baby tooth should have fallen out by the time your child is 13 years old.

For more ways to make brushing fun, check out these resources:

• Songs to help teach kids proper tooth brushing techniques 
• Brush My Teeth Kids Song

If you have questions about your child's baby teeth, contact Dr. Simon Melcher, visit his website or call us at 919-782-0548.

When is the Best Time to Remove Wisdom Teeth?

Most dentists agree that wisdom teeth should be taken out when the dental roots are 2/3 developed. This usually coincides with the adolescent years when there is less risk of nerve damage and young patients also tend to heal faster. Another reason this is an excellent time is because removing the wisdom teeth will also clear the way for any future orthodontic procedures.
The teeth found in the very back of the mouth on both sides, in the upper and lower rows, are the molars. The first ones come in around age 6, and the next ones are present around age 12. The third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, are usually ready to emerge between the ages of 16 and 21. Unfortunately, even though the third set of molars are fully functioning teeth, when they are ready to appear, there may no longer be room for them.

Some people have room for the third set of molars and they cause no problems. However, for many, it is necessary to remove them.

• When the wisdom teeth begin to poke through the gums, they should come out. Even though surprisingly, in some cases, this may not be causing the patient pain, it increases the risk of bacterial infection.
• Removing them is also necessary when they are expected to grow in and crowd the existing teeth, which will cause them to shift.
• Sometimes, a wisdom tooth becomes inflamed and a fluid-filled sac will surround it. This causes swelling and the surrounding tissue and bone matter may be affected.
• Even when the other two sets of molars and the permanent teeth are in place, wisdom teeth that show no signs of coming in should still be removed before they become impacted or trapped in the jaw.
• Wisdom teeth that have come in but prevent the patient from being able to brush and floss properly should be extracted.

If you have questions or concerns about wisdom teeth, it is best to visit your dentist for a thorough evaluation. Call Dr. Simon Melcher at 919-782-0548 or visit his website. You can also learn more here: Dental Treatments - Wisdom Teeth

What are Dental Implants and How do they Work?

Anyone who has lost a tooth or teeth due to injury or periodontal disease may be an ideal candidate for dental implants. Dental implants are permanent devices implanted into a patient's jaw in order to substitute a natural tooth root. They can be used to hold a replacement tooth or bridge in place and they rely on the jawbone for support.

There are two types of dental implants: Endosteal (which are inserted into the jaw bone) and Subperiosteal (placed on top of the jaw bone). Endosteal is the most commonly used type of dental implant and can be a great alternative to dentures. Subperiosteal implants are generally used in patients who are unable to wear conventional dentures or those who have minimal bone height.

While dentures are less costly, many patients are choosing implants instead of dentures due to their more natural appearance. Because dentures are removable, patients who use them also have to deal with applying fixatives, which don't always create a secure bond, causing discomfort and embarrassment if the dentures should come loose while eating or speaking.

Depending on your situation, your dentist may advise dental implants, but an ideal candidate should have the following qualifications:

• Good general and dental health.
• Adequate bone in their jaw.
• Have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease.

If you would like to learn if dental implants are the right choice for you, contact Dr. Melcher at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh: 919-782-0548

Related Posts:

Dental Implants in Raleigh NC

What are Dental X-Rays Used For?

Periodically, Dr. Simon Melcher and the dental staff at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh will want to take X-rays of your teeth in order to catch any possible issues that may be hiding under the surface. Radiographs (X-rays) help your dentist determine the presence of a number of dental problems. Some of these problems include periodontal disease, abbesses and abnormal growths such as tumors or cysts.

In addition to uncovering the issues mentioned above, X-rays will allow your dentist to pinpoint the location of cavities and other conditions that may be too subtle to see during a visual exam. Without periodic X-rays, patients are more likely to experience serious dental problems. This is because early detection is the key to preventing a more serious issue later on.

Some patients are nervous about getting X-rays, due to radiation exposure. Although radiation can be harmful if a person is exposed to it in high levels, rest assured that our team is trained to follow all safety precautions when taking X-rays. By using state-of-the-art technology, such as digital radiography, and by staying knowledgeable about recent advances, we are aware of which techniques, procedures and X-ray films can minimize your exposure to radiation.

To learn more about dental X-rays or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Melcher, please visit our website at www.TheRaleighDentists.com or call us at 919-782-0548.

Is Fluoride Harmful to My Health?

Last year, new research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) prompted many Americans to question the health benefits of fluoride. Despite raising a few eyebrows, the research did not uncover anything that would link significant health risks to fluoride.

It seems the CDC concluded that 2 out of 5 adolescents developed streaks or spottiness on their teeth, caused by ingesting too much fluoride. In rare, extreme cases, some young teens even experienced pitting on their tooth surface, but these cases were so mild that they were only detectable by a dentist. This most likely occurred not from routine dental procedures, but by ingesting fluoride from other sources - namely, drinking water. Most water supplies in the U.S. are fluoridated, which means they are purposefully treated with fluoride.

Fluoride is a compound of the element fluorine, which is found universally throughout nature. You won't just find it in water; it's also in soil, air and in most foods. Fluoride is absorbed easily into the tooth enamel, especially in children's growing teeth. Once the child's teeth are developed, fluoride makes the entire tooth structure more resistant to decay and promotes re-mineralization, which aids in repairing early decay before the damage is visible.

While ingesting too much of anything can cause adverse reactions, it is extremely rare to experience any health issues related to fluoride. Dental fluorosis is the most common affliction associated with excessive fluoride intake (note the keyword here is EXCESSIVE). Dental fluorosis is characterized by mottled, chalky white or brown appearance on the teeth.

It has been theorized that, over many years, too much fluoride can lead to other health problems, but many of these reports are unfounded. The highly reputable organizations in our country such as the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry continue to recommend fluoride, especially for children.

If you take it upon yourself to research this topic, make sure you are careful about where you get your information. Your best resource is to ask Dr. Melcher at Implant and General Dentistry.  Give us a call today to learn more or to schedule an appointment: 919-782-0548

News Sources:

MSN Healthy Living - A Little Fluoride Goes a Long Way
CBS News- Fluoride is Good For You, We Mean Bad for You

Related Post:

Does Bottled Water Contain Fluoride?

Are Silver Fillings a Danger to My Health?

When you get a cavity, which is essentially a small hole in your tooth caused by decay, dentists use special materials to fill it. The material used in dental fillings has advanced over the years, but silver fillings have been a common choice for dentists for a long time.

Although there are alternatives available, silver fillings are not harmful to a patients health.

The silver filling material is a mixture of mercury, a silver alloy, tin and copper. Known as dental amalgam, the use of this mixture has been a controversial topic, namely due to the fact that it contains mercury, which can be toxic when ingested in significant amounts. Although scientists speculate that it is possible for mercury to leech into the mouth from a silver filling, several studies have concluded that the amount that could be released is not enough to pose a significant health risk. In fact, the release of mercury in silver fillings is so small that it is much less than what patients are exposed to in food, air and water.

Nevertheless, many patients are turning to alternative restoration materials. These include gold, porcelain, and composite resins. Dental composite resins are probably the most popular type of restoration material available today, due to their more natural look. Some dentists favor composite resins because they are more easy to manipulate, are insoluble and are insensitive to dehydration. Also, composite resins are fairly inexpensive when compared to other materials.

If you have concerns or questions regarding your fillings, feel free to contact Dr. Simon Melcher at Implant & General Dentistry today. Call 919-782-0548.

Our hours are Mon-Fri, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Dental Insurance at Implant and General Dentistry of Raleigh NC

At Implant and General Dentistry of Raleigh, we want to do whatever we can to make your billing experience as hassle-free as possible.

To ensure this, we do our best to inform our patients of their financial responsibilities up front. We are happy to file insurance claims as a courtesy to our patients, but we ask that they pay for services at the time of treatment.

Due to the changing and developing nature of your teeth and gums, it can be helpful to have dental insurance to help offset costs of treatments necessary to maintain your dental health. Dental insurance will usually cover a certain percentage of most treatments, but depending on your plan, some preventive care services, such as routine teeth cleaning, may be fully covered. Speak with your insurance provider or someone in our billing department for more information.

To learn more, please visit the Dental Insurance page of our website or call us directly at 919-782-0548.

Your Diet and Your Dental Health

Did you know that your dental health is greatly affected by what you eat and drink? Most people are aware that too much sugar can be bad for teeth and that substances like coffee or wine will cause discoloration, but a lot of folks might be surprised to know that diets high in carbohydrates or acidic substances can also contribute to dental problems.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), tooth decay happens when plaque come into contact with sugar in the mouth, causing acid to attack the teeth. The ADA recommends avoiding the consumption of foods and drinks that are high in sugar such as soft drinks and candy. Additionally, snack foods that are very starchy or high in carbs can also contribute to tooth decay.

Giving up these things completely would be great for your dental health, but for most people, this is unrealistic. A soda every once in a while or some candy here and there probably won't be detrimental to your teeth. Just remember that moderation along with regular, effective dental hygiene practices can help you maintain a healthy smile.

Here are a few tips for making your diet tooth-and-gum-friendly:

• Drink plenty of water (limit soda and juices)
• Eat a variety of foods from each of the five major food groups, including: whole grains fruits vegetables lean sources of protein such as lean beef, skinless poultry and fish; dry beans, peas and other legumes low-fat and fat-free dairy foods.
• Limit the number of snacks you eat. If you do snack, choose healthier options like fresh fruit or a piece of cheese.

The ADA says that foods eaten as part of a meal cause less harm to teeth than eating lots of snacks throughout the day. This is because more saliva is released during a meal. Saliva helps wash foods from the mouth and lessens the effects of acids, which can harm teeth and cause cavities.

We hope you learned something today!  Thanks for visiting our blog and please remember to call Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh, NC to schedule your next appointment: 919-782-0548

Proper Tooth Brushing Technique

Brushing your teeth is one of the most important daily habits to maintain a healthy smile. Unfortunately, many people don't realize they aren't bushing effectively. Improper brushing can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and expensive dental bills. How frustrating it would be to continue to have dental problems, even though you're brushing regularly!

Here's a quick look at the most effective way to brush your teeth. These recommendations come straight from the American Dental Association (ADA).  You can learn more at MouthHealthy.org.

First, a few tips... Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Replace your toothbrush every three or four months. (Sooner if the bristles become frayed or bent). Use an ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste. (Or ask your dentist to recommend one for your specific condition).

Now, for the technique... Place your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to the gums. Move the brush back and forth gently in short, tooth-wide strokes. Be sure to brush the outer surfaces, inner surfaces and chewing surfaces of the teeth. To clean the inner surfaces of your front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes. Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.

For a helpful visual guide, download the How to Brush PDF from the ADA.

Remember, brushing is only one part of maintaining dental health. Flossing and regular cleanings are also recommended to keep your smile healthy!  Be sure to schedule your next appointment with Dr, Simon Melcher at Implant and General Dentistry: 919-782-0548.

The Importance of Flossing

Brushing and flossing typically go hand-in-hand when it comes to healthy dental habits. Unfortunately, many people neglect to floss, despite regular brushing. While it may not seem like a big deal, The American Dental Association warns that people who avoid the floss will likely have serious dental issues in the future.

Flossing is important because it helps remove plaque from between your teeth. Plaque is that sticky yellowish coating that builds up along the gumline. It's full of nasty bacteria that excrete acidic matter, causing damage to your teeth and gums. If plaque continues to build up and is left untreated, it could lead to gum disease, tooth decay and even tooth loss.

Most toothbrushes cannot effectively clean the areas between your teeth, so even if you're a die-hard brusher, you'll still need the aid of dental floss to clean those hard-to-reach places. This may be a hassle for people who have difficulty handling dental floss, but it is a very worthwhile hassle. If you need some help, your dentist will probably be more than happy to give you a quick lesson on how to floss during your next visit. You can also download a How To Floss PDF from MouthHealthy.org, a website from the ADA.

Remember, flossing is just one part of maintaining oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth after meals (or at least twice a day) and visiting your dentist for regular cleanings are also essential for keeping your smile bright and healthy.

Contact Dr. Simon Melcher at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh today to schedule your next routine checkup: 919-782-0548

Family Dental Care in Raleigh NC

Dr. Simon Melcher of Implant & General Dentistry offers complete dental care for you and your family. From routine teeth cleaning to emergency dental services, Dr. Melcher and his associates proudly serve as a leading family dentist in Raleigh, NC.

In addition to preventive care, Dr. Melcher and his associates are highly skilled at restorative dental procedures including crowns, bridges, inlays, implants and more. Whether you need a periodontal evaluation or just a routine check up, Dr. Melcher and his staff are happy to offer quality dental care to you and your family.

At Implant & General Dentistry, Dr. Melcher and his associates strive to offer comprehensive dental care for people of all ages. Many patients start out as younger clients but continue to come to the office well into adulthood. As a multigenerational business, Implant & General Dentistry is pleased to see such return business.

If you're ready to come see what Dr. Melcher and his associates have to offer, call 919-782-0548 for an appointment.

Teeth Whitening Treatments in Raleigh NC

Everyone wants a bright, white smile. Unfortunately it can be tough to keep your pearly whites from getting dingy, dull or yellowed.

Even with proper dental hygiene, many factors can affect the color of your teeth. Drinking coffees and sodas, smoking and even some medications can cause tooth discoloration.

By avoiding tobacco use, cutting back on food or drinks that stain your teeth and maintaining a healthy dental hygiene routine, you can avoid further discoloration. Keep in mind, however, that these practices alone won't necessarily give you the ultra white smile you so often see in magazines or television. If that's what you're looking for, you may need to consult your dentist about teeth whitening agents.

At our Raleigh NC office, we offer simple in-house teeth whitening treatments that are fast and effective. We also offer a range of over the counter products that can be used at home; however these methods will not work as quickly or dramatically as the procedures done in our office.

To learn more about teeth whitening in Raleigh NC, visit TheRaleighDentists.com or call us today at (919) 782-0548.

Dental Bridges in Raleigh NC to Repair Spacing or Missing Teeth

If you're tired of going through life with missing teeth or you feel embarrassed because of significant spacing, talk to Implant & General Dentistry of Raleigh NC about dental bridges. We prescribe bridges when one or more teeth are missing and there are healthy teeth on both sides of the open space. As the name implies, a dental bridge closes the gap between two teeth. This will greatly improve the look of your smile and will help you maintain a healthy bite.

The process involved preparing the damaged teeth by eliminating the tooth structure, fabricating the bridge and then cementing it to the prepared teeth. Bridges can be made from three types of material, solid gold for reliable long wear, porcelain fused to a gold base for strength and beauty, and high-strength metal-free porcelain for optimum cosmetic results. With proper care, your new bridge will increase your overall health and instill confidence for years to come.

Learn more and see visual interpretations of dental bridge work at Dental Bridge Treatment Info.

We invite you to contact Implant & General Dentistry of Raleigh NC to schedule your appointment today: 919-782-0548.

Dental Inlays and Onlays for Tooth Restoration in Raleigh NC

Dental inlays or onlays are strong, lifelike dental restorations that are used to help restore strength and health to teeth. These treatments are very similar to cavity fillings, but are usually used to treat teeth with significant levels of decay.

The difference between inlays and onlays lies in the area that is being restored. Inlays generally are used to restore decayed areas that are concave and do not reach the outer borders of the tooth. Onlays are typically used to restore decay found on the outer cusp of the tooth. Both inlays and onlays are utilized in the same manner.

After your mouth has been anesthetized, the decayed portion of your tooth or teeth is removed from the sound tooth structure. An impression of the affected area is then taken and sent to a dental lab. In the meantime, you will most likely have to wear a temporary filling while your permanent inlay or onlay is being fabricated.

In most cases, the inlay or onlay will blend seamlessly to the tooth structure, giving the look of healthy, natural teeth. To learn more, contact us at Implant and General Dentistry today or visit our website at TheRaleighDentists.com: (910) 782-0548.

Crowns for Damaged, Decayed or Broken Teeth

Our teeth can become damaged by physical trauma, lack of hygiene and even our overall physical health. When a tooth becomes too damaged or decayed to be restored by fillings, crowns are usually prescribed.

Unlike veneers, which only cover the visible portion of a tooth, crowns are used to cover (or, in some instances, replace) an entire tooth. Most people who have had root canals will need a crown for the affected tooth. Others who may need crowns are people who have badly chipped or broken teeth due to physical trauma, or people who have neglected their dental hygiene to the point where they are losing their teeth.

Fortunately, crowns can greatly improve the health and appearance of a person's smile - but they do require care and upkeep. We'll go over everything you need to know about your dental crowns, but it is up to you to continue with proper care.

Call us today to schedule your consultation: 919-782-0548

Need Cavity Fillings in Raleigh NC?

Cavities are small holes or depressions in a tooth caused by decay. Tooth decay can affect both the enamel of a tooth (the first, outer layer) and the dentin (the second, inner layer), making it pretty dangerous to your dental health if left untreated.

In order to treat a cavity, your dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the space with one of several types of materials. Cavity fillings can be created from gold, porcelain, silver amalgam, or composite resin. Each material has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Modernly, porcelain and tooth-colored composite materials are the preferred materials, as they mimic the look and texture of natural teeth.

Getting a cavity filled may be a commonly dreaded procedure, but it is relatively easy on the patient. Before beginning the filling procedure, patients are given a numbing local anesthetic to the affected area. You may feel some pressure or slight discomfort from the procedure, but you shouldn't feel any pain. Afterward, some soreness or sensitivity could occur, but every individual is different - we'll talk to you personally about what you can expect during and after your visit.

Remember, cavities aren't fun, they can be avoided by maintaining a proactive dental hygiene regimen and keeping regularly scheduled dental check-ups.

If you're a Raleigh resident who has questions or concerns about tooth fillings, contact us today and we will be happy to give you additional information: 919-782-0548 

Tips for Great Dental Hygiene

Dr. Simon Melcher and his staff at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh NC promote healthy dental hygiene for their patients of all ages.  The basis for this hygiene is twice-daily brushing and flossing using proper techniques.  Here are some tips for great dental hygiene and even better trips to the dentist:

• Brush two times a day using fluoride toothpaste
• Hold the brush at a slight angle towards the gums when brushing along the gum line
• Brush the tongue and roof of your mouth
• Replace worn toothbrushes often
• In addition to brushing, be sure to clean between the teeth daily using floss
• Floss along each side of every tooth to clean between teeth and under the gumline
• Eat a balanced diet and limit between meal snacks
• Avoid hard or chewy sugary candies that linger in the mouth and may get stuck in the teeth
• Be sure to tell your dentist if something in your mouth does not look or feel right

We invite you to consult with Dr. Melcher to learn about recommended products to get the most out of your daily dental hygiene.  He and his staff can also provide customized cleanings and treatments on the basis of your periodontal (gums and bone) health.

Contact Implant and General Dentistry, your Dentists in Raleigh NC, today: 919-782-0548.