Why Regular Visits to the Dentist are Important

Many adults, especially young adults, are under the impression that a visit to the dentist is only necessary when there is a problem. The assumption that regular self care, such as brushing and flossing, are all it takes to keep one's teeth and gums healthy. There are several reasons why visiting a dental professional a minimum of every six months is very important.

Having a thorough cleaning by a dental hygienist is a vital part of maintaining excellent dental health. Because a hygienist is able to examine areas of your mouth, that you simply can not see or reach, they are able to detect issues early. They are trained to take a critical look and may even be able to show you ways to improve your brushing or flossing techniques.

Professional cleanings and polishing are the best way to remove months of stains caused by food, beverages, and tobacco products. Failing to have plaque removed regularly at the dental office can lead to gum disease. When plaque hardens and adheres to the teeth, it is virtually impossible to remove with just brushing and flossing.

Dentists and their hygienists routinely discover problems that patients were unaware of. Tiny cracks, broken or loose teeth, damaged fillings, gum and tongue changes, plus spacing deviations between the teeth, are all pretty impossible to find on your own!

In addition to checking for tooth decay and gum disease, plus screening through the use of x-rays, dentists these days understand the importance of conducting detailed hands on examinations.  A variety of conditions, including oral cancers, diabetes, and vitamin deficiencies may be uncovered through an inspection of the patient's head, neck, throat, inner cheeks, bite, and jaw movement.

When you see your dentist on a regular basis and follow daily good oral hygiene practices at home, you are more likely to keep your teeth and gums healthy!

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

Benefits of Using Mouthwash

What's that? Rinsing with a mouthwash is not part of your daily dental routine? Think that's just for those faced with bad breath? If you are like many individuals, mouthwashes are purchased and used sporadically. Oftentimes, when the product runs out, restocking it is not a priority until the next perceived "bad breath" emergency. Along with a good toothbrush, toothpaste and floss, mouthwash is an essential part of an effective dental hygiene kit. Here are a few reasons why:

• The American Dental Association supports the regular use of a mouthwash
• Rinsing with a solution specifically for dental health improves the effects of brushing and flossing.
• In addition to improving the breath, mouthwashes help decrease bacteria and plaque.
• Mouthwashes or dental rinses that contain fluoride help reduce and prevent tooth decay.
• Because of its liquid state, a mouthwash is effective for getting to hard to reach spots, such as the back of the mouth, cheeks, and between gums.
• It helps fights gum disease.

If these benefits have your wheels turning, perhaps you're ready for a little more information?

What are the different types of mouthwashes?

There are two basic types-one is considered "cosmetic" and the other "therapeutic".

Cosmetic rinses only serve to freshen the breath. They do not contain any of the bacteria or cavity fighting ingredients necessary to promote better dental health. Therapeutic mouthwashes on the other hand are loaded with several ingredients such as fluoride and other anti-microbial agents that fight cavities, eliminate bacteria, plaque, and the germs that lead to gum disease, gingivitis, and bad breath.

When is the best time to use a dental rinse - before or after brushing or flossing?

In regard to this question, the jury still seems to be out! Those health care professionals that support the "before" school of thought say that using a mouthwash will help loosen particles and make brushing more effective.

Those on the other side of the fence who believe using a mouthwash "after" brushing note that doing so handles any particles or areas that were missed by brushing and flossing. Using a rinse last also leaves a bit of the product in the mouth, on the teeth and gums, so it likely continues to work longer.

Before choosing a mouthwash or dental rinse...

Please discuss with Dr. Simon Melcher and his staff which products will be most beneficial to you. Know that using mouthwashes or fluoridated dental rinses is never a substitute for brushing and flossing! Be aware that alcohol is often an ingredient and therefore any mouthwash containing it should not be used by children 6 and under. There is always a danger they may swallow it.

Get more tips on good dental hygiene and dental health here on our blog or directly from Dr. Simon Melcher at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh.  Call us today to schedule a consultation! 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

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.

Routine Teeth Cleaning and Dental Hygiene

One of the most basic and most important services we provide for our patients is routine teeth cleaning including dental hygiene, oral exams, and annual x-rays. We schedule routine cleanings every six months for each patient and do our utmost to stay on schedule. If an appointment cannot be kept, whether by our schedule or yours, we will find the next best available time slot for you to come in.

Routine cleanings help us not only provide the best care for your teeth, they also allow us to diagnose any problems and ideally take steps to manage those problems before they develop further.

Our routine teeth cleanings also allow us to help educate you about brushing and flossing best practices to ensure that you're taking optimal care of your teeth between visits. We can point out potential trouble spots with your teeth and gums so you know where to pay extra attention during your own dental care.

Please contact us or request an appointment for your routine teeth cleaning and we'll get you on your way to a healthy mouth! 919-782-0548