Dental Sealants for Kids

Since they were introduced in the late 1970s, dental sealants have evolved into one of modern dentistry's greatest technological advances. Although fluoride use among children makes a significant difference in the fight against cavities, it is not a cure-all. The use of sealants in conjunction with fluoride, flossing, regular brushing, and routine dental visits, provides maximum protection against tooth decay for kids.

Because teeth contain a variety of nooks and crannies, the application of a topical sealant works to prevent bacteria and food particles from entering those hard to brush areas. Sealants are so effective because they are made of a clear plastic material, which is applied directly to the surface of the teeth. With children, sealants can only be applied after the teeth have fully erupted. For most kids, that means between the ages of 5 and 8 years of age.

In a child's mouth, sealants can be applied to both permanent and primary teeth. The material is actually brushed on the chewing surfaces of the molars and along the grooves and depressions of the teeth. For kids, the craggy surfaces of molars are the most common places to develop cavities. For adults, it's sometimes tough to reach all of the spots between the teeth, even with flossing and an electric toothbrush. That is why it is so important for youngsters to receive sealant treatment. They are still learning how to properly take care of their teeth.

The sealant application process is easy, fast, and painless. The tooth is cleaned, dried, and then the sealant is painted on. A special heat light cures or dries the sealant coat and that's it! Sealants are invisible and in no way interfere with a child's day- to-day activities, including playing an instrument, singing, or smiling. They last for years and if they become rough or cracked, they may be reapplied.

Please remember that dental sealants are just one part of an effective dental hygiene routine. Additionally your child should also:

• Brush twice a day with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste
• Clean between the teeth daily with floss or another interdental cleaner
• Eat a balanced diet, with healthy snacks-avoid sugary, sticky foods and beverages 
• Refer to these Tips for Great Dental Hygiene
• Visit Dr. Melcher and his friendly staff on a regular basis!

Call our office to consult with Dr. Melcher regarding dental sealants for kids: 919-782-0548

Good Nutrition is Directly Tied to Good Dental Health

As a nation, Americans are finally waking up to the fact that diet is a direct link to overall health and well-being. The foods and beverages we eat and drink affects all of the physical systems that make up the human body. Poor nutrition can be linked to a variety of health problems such as obesity, cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and even arthritis. It should come as no surprise then that the foods we eat can either maintain and improve our dental health or destroy it.

Consider the process of eating and digesting food. Next, think of your mouth, teeth, tongue, and gums as the first stop along the "Digestion Highway." Just like a highway sees wear and tear from heavy equipment, eating unhealthy foods inundates your teeth and gums with substances that wear them down and cause decay and disease. In fact, when foods that are full of sugar, acid, salt, preservatives, and other artificial ingredients are consumed, your general health and dental health are likely to suffer.

In its campaign to promote better health for everyone, the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, which is an agency overseen by he U.S. Department of Agriculture, has created the website ChooseMyPlate.gov.

Here are a few suggestions from the site:

• Of all the food you eat daily, at least half should consist of fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains such as oatmeal, brown rice, and whole wheat bread is preferable over highly processed bleached, white flour and other grains that have been stripped of their nutritive qualities, including fiber
• Low-fat and fat-free dairy products are essential for the development of healthy teeth and bones
• Protein should be lean such as skinless poultry, fish, or lean cuts of beef and pork. Cook it without added fat by baking, grilling, or roasting. A serving of meat should be no larger than a deck of cards. Also try to have several meatless meals a week with non-animal protein sources such as legumes, soy and beans

Please consider what the American Dental Association says "If your nutrition is poor, the first signs often show up in your oral health."

Be sure to check in on your dental health regularly by scheduling appointments with Dr. Simon Melcher at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh every six months.  Request an appointment online or call us today at 919-782-0548.

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Concerns About Sensitive Teeth

A variety of factors may come into play when it comes to discovering why a patient is experiencing sensitivity in his or her teeth and gums. Sometimes the sensitivity is just minor. However, please keep in mind that although it may be bearable, it is likely a warning sign that something is wrong.

Sensitivity occurs in several ways, such as discomfort brought on by hot or cold foods or beverages, sugary foods, or even brushing and flossing. The cause of the problem is typically due to the fact that the teeth in question have worn fillings, damaged enamel, cracks, or decay. Overly aggressive brushing can also cause the gums to recede, which leaves a tiny portion of the roots of the teeth exposed - ouch!

Periodontal disease is one more contributing factor that can result in painful teeth and gums. Still other explanations for dental sensitivity are the over use of mouthwashes and whitening products. The consumption of highly acidic foods such as citrus, tomatoes, pickles, or tea can lead to enamel erosion and make one's teeth and gums sensitive.

To alleviate and prevent the pain and discomfort caused by dental sensitivity, regular visits to the dentist are extremely important. Your dentist and hygienist can review proper brushing and flossing techniques and identify the real source of any problems. For example, you may be grinding your teeth and unaware of it. Your dentist could suggest having a mouth guard made which will protect your teeth in the long run. Some other things that may help are:

• Using a soft-bristled toothbrush which is easier on the gums
• Switching to a brand of toothpaste that is especially for sensitive teeth and gums
• Using fluoridated toothpastes and rinses which can also prevent the discomfort caused by sensitivity
• Being diligent about regular brushing and flossing
• Eating a well-balanced diet with plenty of natural teeth cleaners like apples, carrots, and celery

When you follow the guidelines suggested by your dentist and still have problems, please don't worry.  There are a few treatments that can help. Bonding can cover the exposed root tissue, and reduce pain. Applying a fluoride varnish or dentin sealer are also ways to tackle the issues of dental sensitivity.

If you are experiencing any discomfort and would like to have a thorough checkup conducted by Dr. Melcher or one of our highly skilled and professional dental hygienists, please request an appointment online or call us today to schedule an appointment: (919) 782-0548

Enjoy a Brighter Smile with Teeth Whitening

With the holidays fast approaching there will likely be an abundance of gatherings with friends, family, and co-workers. Will you be ready to smile and say "cheese" for all those photo-ops?

For adults, years of tobacco use, coffee and tea consumption plus the side effects of certain medications can make teeth look dull and stained. If your smile has lost its luster, you may have considered some of the new over-the-counter whitening products. Although drugstore whitening kits are ok, professional treatments are much better, for a variety of reasons. At Implant & General Dentistry in Raleigh, Dr. Simon Melcher and his staff can use professional teeth whitening treatments help make your smile its very best!

Since you only have one set of grown-up teeth, it's a good idea not to take any chances with your dental health. Before making any attempts to whiten the teeth, it is always advised to have a thorough check-up with a dental professional. Having a preliminary exam is important because should whitening agents be used when there are existing issues, such as cavities or cracks, other problems may arise. In other words, proceeding with a whitening regime before have a dental checkup is like putting the cart before the horse.

Another concern is that over-the-counter kits that claim to whiten the teeth can possibly damage your tooth enamel. This occurs when these types of over the counter products are used too often. Oxygen radicals in the stain removers can cause the pores of the teeth to open, which can jeopardize the health of the enamel.

Lots of whitening kits only address the front teeth and leave the back teeth out. Have you every seen anyone who has whitened just their front teeth? If they knew a line of demarcation was present, they would definitely allow their dentist to tackle the job! In addition to having better access to a patient's entire set of teeth, a dental professional is also able to employ the use of specialized lighting and magnification tools When you have the whitening done by a skilled professional, such as Dr. Melcher, your whites will match!

So, if your smile is not as brilliant as you would like, make your appointment early - the holidays will be here before we know it!  Call us today at 919-782-0548.

Reviews for Dr. Simon Melcher at Implant & General Dentistry

Raleigh Oral Surgeon, Simon Melcher Gives His Patients Plenty to Smile About!

If you are in need of a full-service dental office in the greater Raleigh area, please consider contacting the office of Dr. Simon Melcher of Implant and General Dentistry. From bridges to wisdom teeth, our team of dental professionals is skilled and experienced in the latest strategies and treatments for improving the dental health and hygiene of our clients.

In addition to traditional care, such as fillings, crowns, root canals, and bonding, we also take great pride in offering cosmetic procedures. Our office provides veneers, implants, inlays, and whitening. Of course we are also able to address the needs of those who may require dentures, partials, or bridges. See details about each of our dental treatments.

Our friendly staff of dental hygienists goes the extra mile with each of our patients. Everyone can use a refresher now and then about the right way to brush and floss, which is why we're dedicated to hands on help. No wonder our clients leave smiling! Here's what a few of them have had to say lately:

"I really appreciate the quality of service this practice offers to me. Friendly staff, great dental education, plus thorough 6-month check-ups. Also, excellent care when dental treatment is required. Everyone is great!"
 - by Carolyn Sexton on 09/03/2013 (5 stars)

"Wonderful office, with friendly, knowledgeable staff and great doctors. This office is always welcoming and ready to help patients solve any problems, then calling to follow up with patients afterward. They all go above and beyond. I would recommend this office to anyone looking for a caring dentist. Thank you for taking such good care of me!"
 - by Paula Brantley on 08/28/2013 (5 stars)

"Would recommend this practice to any of my friends!"
 - by Anne McKee on 08/13/2013 (5 stars)

"I had a filling replaced, and it was a painless experience. I would highly recommend Dr. Melcher."
 - by BJ on 08/01/2013 (5 stars)

"The whole team is EXCELLENT! Thank you for thinking outside the box rather than taking my money for something i didn't need. The Skidmore's love your team and will be back!"
 - by Rivka Skidmore on 07/25/2013 (4 stars)

Thank you so much to our patients who take the time to provide feedback.  We value all your comments and appreciate your business.  We invite you to read more reviews and testimonials on our website and to contact us directly to schedule a consultation: 919-782-0548.

Premium Smile Makeover from Implant & General Dentistry in Raleigh

Sometimes, making the first step towards change is the most difficult of all. At the office of Raleigh dentist, Dr. Simon Melcher, we also appreciate that busy schedules plus work, school, and family commitments often keep us from taking care of ourselves. Just as you would enlist the help of a professional for assistance with a legal matter, home improvement project, or auto repair, your family dentist is the one who can provide experience, skill, and know-how when it comes to improving the appearance of your smile.

In addition to routine general dentistry, our office also offers a variety of treatments for making your smile the best it can be.

As the saying goes, "a picture is worth a thousand words," so please have a look at our smile gallery to a few of our smile makeovers for happy patients.

Learn more by giving us a call to schedule an appointment: 919-782-0548. Our office is located at 3340 Six Forks Road in Raleigh, NC.  See details at www.theraleighdentists.com.

Dental Hygiene Begins at Home

At the Raleigh, N.C. office of Dr. Simon Melcher - Implants and General Dentistry - we believe that excellent dental care begins at home. Dr. Melcher and his team of experienced dental hygienists, work with each patient on the basic requirements for taking care of their teeth and gums. Our goal in doing so is to ensure that between their regular visits, patients are diligent and confident in establishing their own "at-home" regiment. Please use our handy checklist to make sure that your dental health is the best that it can possibly be!

• Create your dental tool kit - As with any routine task; having the proper tools is essential. Having these items on hand will make it easy to take great care of your teeth and gums:
• Soft-bristled toothbrush-manual or battery-powered*
• Fluoridated toothpaste
• Floss-waxed, nylon, or flavored 
• Dental rinse that contain fluoride
• Tongue scraper
• Egg timer
• * The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. Also, rinse well after each use and allow it to air dry to prevent the growth of bacteria
• Brush at least twice a day - It is ideal to brush after every meal and snack. If that is not possible, then brush twice each day and always before bedtime. Make sure to use small, gentle circular strokes to also keep the gums healthy. Pay close attention to the hard to reach spots and take the time to brush back molars, inside the upper and lower rows of teeth, tongue, and inner cheeks.
• Brush for 2 minutes each time - This is why you'll want to have an egg timer in your tool kit!
• Floss - This activity cleans the sides of your teeth and hard to reach places that are impossible for your toothbrush to reach. Flossing also stimulates circulation and conditions the gums. Did you know that each tooth has 5 sides? That is why brushing alone is just not enough.
• Scrape your tongue - Using this simple tool helps keep your breath fresher. Tongue scrapers are especially valuable in reducing bad breath because they enable the user to remove decaying bacteria that produces volatile sulphur compounds or VSCs.
• Rinse and swish - Complete your routine by swishing and rinsing with a fluoridated dental rinse or mouth wash. That adds a little extra oomph and a rinse can reach spots that brushing and flossing missed!
• Keep healthy snacks on hand and avoid sugar - Drinks and snacks loaded with sugar are harmful, cause the buildup of plaque and promote decay. Snack on fresh fruits and veggies and drink water!

Having a spare "tool-kit" to use at school or the office will also help you establish regular good habits.

Our team at Implant and General Dentistry are at your service if you have any questions, concerns, or just need a refresher on how to floss or brush correctly.  Please contact our office to schedule an appointment: 919-782-0548