Dental Hygiene Month

dental hygiene month - Pinellas Park FL
  • Dental Hygiene Month

Celebrate Dental Hygiene Month!

National Dental Hygiene Month is celebrated in October each year as a reminder to the nation to follow everyday behaviors that support healthy teeth and gums. The month-long celebration is primarily aimed at children’s oral health, but it also serves to educate adults too. In this article, Dr. Wade, the best dentist in Pinellas Park, FL, shares how to celebrate Dental Hygiene Month with your family.

Main Essentials for Oral Health

National Dental Hygiene Month focuses on the important daily routines that promote healthy teeth and gums. So, Dr. Wade recommends incorporating the following into your daily routine.

  • Brushing. The ADHA suggests brushing your teeth twice a day, first in the morning after breakfast and again in the evening soon before going to bed, with a soft toothbrush and fluoride-containing toothpaste.
  • Flossing. This should be done once a day, preferably shortly before going to bed, when trapped food particles might do the most harm.
  • Well-balanced diet. A diet based on the government’s food pyramid enhances dental health by reducing sugar consumption while also contributing to general physical health. It includes whole grains and dairy products, vegetables, fruits, and nuts, as well as meat, fish, and sweets in moderation.
  • Mouthwash. This is an important part of your oral hygiene routine. Additionally, this helps get rid of bad breath and bacteria!
  • Chewing sugarless gum. Chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after eating helps to clean debris from teeth, improves saliva production, which helps to regulate acid accumulation, and provides vital minerals to the enamel of the teeth, according to Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA. 
  • Inspect the little one’s teeth. Additionally, parents should carefully inspect their children’s teeth once a month for signs of decay or infection, such as cavities and white spots on the gums. They should ensure that their children have frequent dental checkups.

Additionally, the ADHA also suggests that people thoroughly cleans all sides of their teeth. So, don’t forget the ones in the back!

Achieve a Healthy Smile for Life

Although healthy daily habits that lead to healthy teeth should be taught to children as soon as they are old enough to perform them on their own, adults, regardless of age or tooth condition, should adopt the behaviors recommended by this year’s National Dental Hygiene Month. Oral health is a crucial component of overall well-being. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, you will learn the skills necessary to become a trusted member of a dental health care team. Contact Park Boulevard Family Dentistry to get started on your oral health journey. Additionally, we offer patients in Pinellas Park, FL, our special dental savings plan!

Gum Care Month

gum care month - pinellas park fl
  • Gum Care Month

Celebrating Gum Care Month

September is National Gum Care Month! While good dental hygiene is essential all year, this monthly is a great time to bring more attention to oral health. Get your whole family involved to celebrate Gum Care Month! Below, your dentist in Pinellas Park, FL, shares more about gum care.

What Exactly Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is caused by harmful bacteria that cause inflammation in gums and teeth. While gum disease progresses slowly, if unchecked, it can cause severe bone loss. So, the impacted teeth may eventually need to be removed. Poor oral hygiene leads to plaque, which is the main cause of gum disease. Dr. Wade adds that gum disease is easily one of the most common dental problems. Furthermore, it affects more than half of all adults over the age of 30.

Signs of Gum Disease

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. Some symptoms of gum disease can be treated at your local dentist office:

  • Red, swollen gums
  • Sensitive gums
  • Receding gum line
  • Bad breath 

When gingivitis is left untreated, plaque hardens into tartar, causing gum tissue to pull away from the teeth. This eventually leads to the formation of pockets that accumulate additional tartar and germs, resulting in the degradation of the bone and ligaments that keep the teeth in place. Additionally, periodontitis is the term used to describe this severe stage of gum disease.

Working to Keep Your Gums Healthy

It’s not difficult to keep your gums strong, pink, and healthy, but it does require developing good oral health habits at home. The primary goal should be to reduce the amount of dangerous oral bacteria. So, here are a few basic methods to get started:

  • Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. 
  • Tooth brushes should be replaced on a regular basis because ragged bristles do not clean as well (and old brushes can harbor bacteria).
  • Flossing at least once a day is essential. Flossing at work after lunch is a wonderful habit to cultivate if you are too exhausted to do it at night or if you are too rushed in the morning.
  • Bacteria in the mouth can be reduced by rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash. Additionally, our friend, Dr. Ryan Helgerson, a dentist in Grand Junction, recommends using an ADA-approved alcohol-free mouth wash.
  • Dry mouth can be caused by a variety of conditions and drugs. To fight this condition, try sipping water throughout the day. Additionally, you can try chewing sugarless gum or sucking on sugarless lozenges.
  • Schedule routine dental cleanings and checkups as instructed by your dentist.
  • Tobacco usage raises the risk of gum disease and makes it more difficult for gum tissue to repair. Therefore, smokers and smokeless tobacco users should think about stopping.
  • Diabetics must be attentive in keeping their diabetes under control because excessive sugar levels increase the risk of gum disease.
  • Good nutrition and eating nutritious foods can help reduce the incidence of gum disease. Also, bacteria love sugar. So, make sure your company’s vending machines are supplied with plenty of water, milk, yogurt, apples, and other healthy options.

Contact Pinellas Park Dentist

Our team at Park Hills Boulevard Family Dentistry is happy to help you and your family achieve optimal oral health. As you can see, gum care is essential to happy and healthy teeth. So, contact our dental office today to schedule your next visit! We also offer our patients an incredible dental savings plan.  

Can You Reverse Gum Recession?

reverse gum recession - Pinellas Park FL
  • Can You Reverse Gum Recession?

Is it Possible to Reverse Gum Recession?

Teeth looking a little longer than usual? Your gums may be receding. Gum recession can occur due to several factors, including cleaning your teeth too hard, grinding your teeth, neglecting your dental hygiene, failing to treat misaligned teeth, and having an unhealthy lifestyle. Receding gums can lead to an even bigger problem if you’re not too careful. If your gums are sore, you’re probably wondering how to fix this problem. But can you reverse gum recession? Continue reading to find out, or contact your dentist in Pinellas Park, FL. 

Is It Normal for Gums to Recede?

When it comes to protecting your teeth, your gums perform two crucial responsibilities. For starters, your gums are what binds your teeth to the jawbones. It also protects your cheeks and interior gums. As your gums pull away from your teeth or wear out, it produces gaps that reveal and expose the tooth roots. In some cases, “pockets” form between the teeth and the gum line, and bacteria and food accumulate in these gaps. Gum recession raises your chances of acquiring tooth decay and, in the worst-case scenario, losing your teeth.

Is it Possible to Reverse Gum Recession?

So, is it possible to reverse gum recession? Receding gums, unfortunately, will not regrow on their own, explains Dr. Wade. When your gums recede, the lost tissue is gone for good. This is why you must maintain a healthy oral health practice, which includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting your Pinellas Park dentist on a regular basis. Concentrate on preventing gum recession rather than reversing it. Your gums may suffer irreparable damage if you neglect your oral health.

Treatment for Receding Gums

If your gums are receding substantially, your dentist or periodontist can discuss restorative dentistry treatment options with you. Gum recession can be treated using a variety of methods, including:

Tooth Scaling/Root Planing: 

If you have mild gum recession, your dentist or hygienist may do tooth scaling or root planing to deep clean the area. Plaque and tartar will be removed from the exposed area of the tooth as well as below the gum line. In addition, to discourage bacteria buildup, your dentist may carefully remove the gum line and smooth the exposed tooth root. Our friend Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, adds root scaling is one of the most effective ways to treat gum recession. 

Open Flap Dental Treatment: 

If calculus has accumulated deeply in pockets caused by gum recession, your dentist or periodontist may choose to fold back the afflicted gum tissue in an “open flap” treatment. Then, during a deep cleaning process, dangerous microorganisms are removed. To prevent the formation of pockets in the future, the jaw bone may be modified. The gum tissue is then fixed in place, close against the tooth, in order to remove or reduce the pockets.

Regeneration:

Has gum recession ruined your jaw bone? In this instance, your dentist or periodontist may recommend bone and gum tissue regeneration. First, your gum will be folded back to allow bacteria to be removed. The afflicted area will next be treated with a regenerative material (such as graft tissue or tissue-stimulating protein) to assist your body to spontaneously rebuild bone and tissue. The gum tissue will next be fastened against the teeth.

Gum Tissue Graft: 

During this surgical operation, your dentist or periodontist will remove gum tissue from one area of your mouth (such as the top) and transfer it to cover the exposed tooth roots. Before the new tissue is attached, your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned to remove bacteria and dirt. There are various types of gum graft operations available; your dentist or periodontist will be able to recommend the best one for you.

So, if you try any of these treatments, keep in mind that you have not solved the problem permanently. Did your gums recede as a result of brushing too hard, using a hard-bristled toothbrush, or ignoring your oral health? Was it crooked teeth or a smoking habit that caused the problem? Whatever the cause, you’ll need to address the underlying problem to keep your gums from receding again.

How to Prevent Further Damage

While it is upsetting that gum recession cannot be reversed, it is reassuring to know that you can prevent more harm. So, if your dentist mentions that your gums are receding, don’t waste any more time. Instead, concentrate on how you can protect and maintain the health of your gums. You don’t need to do anything unusual; simply follow these straightforward guidelines:

  • Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled brush twice a day. Don’t do it too hard.
  • Floss your teeth at least once a day.
  • Visit your dentist twice a year for dental cleanings
  • Address concerns such as tooth grinding and tooth misalignment.
  • Tobacco and smoking should be avoided.
  • Consume a well-balanced diet.

So, now that you know you can’t reverse gum recession, you can take the right steps to get back on track. Contact Park Boulevard Family Dentistry in Pinellas Park, FL, for information on our dental services.

Dentures FAQ

dentures faq - pinellas park fl
  • Dentures FAQ

Denture FAQ: From Dentist in Pinellas Park, FL

I’m Interested In Dentures. Where Do I Start?

If you have some or all missing teeth, visit your dentist in Pinellas Park, FL. They will be the best person to discuss any of your oral health needs with. Dr. Wade and her team will be happy to access your smile for a denture consultation. During this time, you will find out if dentures are the right restorative dentistry option for you. You can also ask any questions you have or continue reading our Denture FAQ.

What Types of Dentures Are Available?

Dentures are a solution to replace all teeth or some teeth. Complete dentures are dentures that replace all of the teeth. Attaching these dentures to dental implants improves their stability and retention. Partial dentures are dentures that replace some but not all of the teeth. They are attached to the remaining teeth and also cover and rest on the gums and bone where the teeth are gone. Partial dentures can also be restored and stabilized by dental implants.

How Do I Take Care Of My Dentures?

Whitening: Because dentures are constructed of plastic, they cannot be whitened like natural teeth. To reduce discoloration, Dr. Wade urges patients to clean their dentures on a daily basis. Brushing your dentures with a denture brush or a soft toothbrush can keep them from becoming permanently discolored and will keep your mouth healthy. Brush on every surface. Pro tip: Do not use regular toothpaste. This is extremely harmful to your dentures. There are several denture cleaner products available at your local stores. You can soak them in a water-based cleaning solution overnight. 

What Happens If My Denture Breaks?

The best approach is to go back to your emergency dentist in Pinellas Park, FL. You’ll want to get your dentures fixed right away. Otherwise, it can be difficult to eat or talk. Dr. Wade may also have to adjust your dentures after they’ve been fixed. 

Can I Sleep While Wearing Dentures?

Yes, you can wear your dentures at night. However, it is recommended that you remove them. You should take your dentures out at night to allow your gums and bone to rest from the strain of the denture during the day. If you must wear dentures for social reasons or to keep your jaws from shutting too tightly, you should make time during the day to properly clean your mouth and dentures. Avoid wearing your dentures 24 hours a day unless you practice good dental care. It never hurts to ask your local dentist what they recommend.

What Can and Can’t I Eat With Dentures?

Most patients must learn how to properly utilize dentures, and as a result, it takes some time to get acclimated to them. You should be able to eat normally after a while, but it may take a little longer to get used to harder or stickier meals. Using a small quantity of denture glue may assist in holding the dentures in place. You can continue eating normally for the most part. We recommend staying away from extremely sticky foods. 

Chewing gum: No matter whatever kind of chewing gum you try, dentures and chewing gum do not usually go well together. Our friend Dr. Dave Moghadam, a dentist in Easton, PA, explains that the gum often adheres to the acrylic part of the denture. Gum may break a seal on the dentures, causing them to loosen. Gum may become attached to the denture and harden and discolor over time.

Are Dentures Painful?

It is typical to suffer slight soreness when you initially get your new dentures. However, this will subside once your mouth adapts to them. The duration of the pain varies. It may take longer if you previously wore dentures and now have a new set. Similarly, if you had any natural teeth present that were extracted during the process of getting new dentures, the locations where the extractions were performed may be painful or uncomfortable for several weeks after the teeth were gone. It is essential that you see your dentist in Pinellas Park, FL, on a regular basis to adjust your dentures as you heal.

If you have any further questions not covered in this denture FAQ, please contact Park Boulevard Family Dentistry.

About Zoom Teeth Whitening

zoom teeth whitening - Pinellas Park FL
  • About Zoom Teeth Whitening

About Zoom Teeth Whitening

At Park Bouldevard Family Dentistry, we use Zoom Teeth Whitening to give patients a brighter and more confident smile. Zoom is commonly used throughout the United States. Smiles tend to fade, especially if you drink coffee, tea on a regular basis. The aging process may also cause your teeth to stain and darken. The Zoom in-office tooth whitening treatments have about 25% of hydrogen peroxide, which helps speed up the teeth whitening process. In today’s blog, your favorite dentist in Pinellas Park, FL, Dr. Wade, talks about Zoom Teeth Whitening.

Treatment Planning and Consultation

Before determining if Zoom Teeth Whitening is the best cosmetic dentistry treatment for you, Dr. Wade will need to see you for a consultation. It’s standard practice for most dentists to review their teeth and gums. This will ensure that the treatment will be effective with your smile. We’ll also be able to see if your smile goals are achievable with Zoom. Whitening may not be the best choice depending on the appearance of your smile.

The Zoom Method

One of the best parts of getting professional teeth whitening is that the results are instant. The entire process takes less than an hour, but prior to the Zoom teeth whitening session, a professional teeth cleaning is recommended. The procedure starts with a brief preparation in which the lips and gums are covered, leaving the teeth visible. The whitening gel is then applied by our team, which acts in tandem with the Zoom light. This is used to penetrate the teeth and break up stains. While the light is turned on, the gel stays in place for 15 minutes. During your treatment, we encourage patients to relax, watch Netflix, or listen to music during this period.

For a total treatment period of 45 minutes, the gel is applied for three 15-minute sessions of light activation. Individuals who have a powerful gag reflex or have dental anxiety can make the teeth whitening process difficult. 

After Professional Teeth Whitening

After your visit to Park Boulevard Family Dentistry, you will be sent a Zoom at-home touch-up kit with custom-fitted whitening trays. Where and how to use this touch-up kit, follow Dr. Wade’s instructions.

To help preserve the whitening effects of your procedure, your dentist Pinellas Park is likely to encourage you to avoid certain foods and beverages such as tea, coffee, red wine, and tobacco. It’s okay to have this in moderation. 

One of the most effective ways to keep your smile bright is maintaining a good oral health regimen, says our friend Dr. Ryan Helgerson, a dentist in Grand Junction. There are toothpastes with whitening agents. Ask Dr. Wade what she recommends. 

Some Considerations

The Zoom light emits very little heat, which can cause sensitivity during treatment. Minor tingling is still felt immediately after the cosmetic treatment, but it will likely go away. To reduce sensitivity, ask Dr. Wade for an anti-sensitivity toothpaste prior to treatment.

Zoom, like other whitening items, is not approved for children under the age of 13, as well as pregnant or lactating mothers. Also, keep in mind that whitening treatments might not be as successful for some people as they are for others. If you have any questions regarding your Zoom Teeth Whitening, contact Park Boulevard Family Dentistry.

Signs You Need a Root Canal

signs you need a root canal - Pienllas Park Dentist
  • Signs You Need a Root Canal

Signs You Need a Root Canal

Root canal therapy is a restorative dentistry treatment that has been used to treat infected or decayed. It can be challenging to determine whether you need a root canal, especially if you have several symptoms. Physical symptoms usually do not appear until the problem has progressed, which is why we recommend seeing your dentist in Pinellas Park, FL, as soon as possible. Read the following to learn about the signs you need a root canal from Dr. Wade.

1. Tooth & Gum Discomfort

So, when should you get a root canal? One of the most obvious signs that something is wrong with your tooth is pain. Although tooth and gum pain does not always indicate the need for a root canal, most infected teeth do cause discomfort. Normal activities like brushing and chewing may cause unusual discomfort. 

2. Inflammation & Swelling

Root canal patients may experience dental swelling and inflammation in addition to pain. You may notice a slightly raised or tender spot along your gumline, as well as swelling throughout your face and neck. While swelling may resolve on its own or with over-the-counter medications, this does not address the underlying issue, says our friend Dr. O’Grady, an emergency dentist in Denver. Consult with your local Pinellas Park dentist to determine the source of the issue.

3. Sensitivity to Hot & Cold

There could be a variety of causes for dental hypersensitivity. Although some temperature sensitivity is normal, such as when eating an ice cream cone, extreme sensitivity indicates that something is wrong. Your dentist in Pinellas Park, FL can determine the source of your pain and whether you require root canal therapy.

4. Tooth Discoloration

 Discoloration, on the other hand, is a sign of tooth decay. Contact Park Boulevard Family Dentistry for a root canal examination if a single tooth begins to darken, or a concerning dark spot appears on one of your teeth.

5. Tooth Abscess

Patients who have a badly infected tooth may develop a tooth abscess as a result of an infection. Swollen gums and discomfort are all symptoms of an abscess. It is critical to seek dental care as soon as possible because an untreated abscess can make it difficult to breathe or swallow. 

When Should You Get a Root Canal?

When these signs and symptoms are combined, they may indicate a serious infection or decay. Allow Dr. Wade to treat the area as soon as possible rather than waiting for the problem to worsen. Park Boulevard Family Dentistry understands that some patients are nervous or fearful of root canal therapy, which is why our team will do everything to make you feel comfortable. To complete treatment with precision and accuracy, we employ cutting-edge technology and techniques.

Contact Park Boulevard Family Dentistry

Root canal therapy can be a quick and painless way to treat an infected tooth. Park Boulevard Family Dentistry root canal treatment can relieve tooth and gum pain, sensitivity, and other symptoms. If you live in Grand Junction, CO, and need emergency dental care, give us a call today! 

What To Expect During a Dental Cleaning

what happens during a dental cleaning - Pinellas Park FL
  • What To Expect During a Dental Cleaning

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning

Many people dread having their teeth cleaned at their dental office. At Park Boulevard Family Dentistry, we understand that the strange noises and prodding can be a bit scary. For most people, a professional dental cleaning is simple and painless. To help ease your mind, Dr. Wade, your dentist in Pinellas Park, FL, shares what happens during a dental cleaning in the following article.

Full Mouth Examination

A dental hygienist performs the majority of teeth cleanings. They begin the cleaning process with a physical examination of your entire mouth. When you visit our dental office, your dental hygienist will examine your teeth and gums, looking for signs of dental problems. Some common dental problems include cavities, gingivitis, and tooth decay. If major issues are discovered, Dr. Wade will further examine the problem area at the end of the appointment and work with you to find a solution.

Plaque & Tartar Removal

The dental hygienist uses a scaler to remove plaque and tartar at the base of your teeth/gum line. We asked our friend Dr. Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, about plaque removal. Dr. Kim agrees the scraping is completely normal. Most patients don’t like this part of their dental cleaning because of the noise. Many offices use headphones to help eliminate the sound. 

Brushing and flossing daily prevent plaque from accumulating and transforming into tartar. After tartar has formed, it can only be removed at the dentist.

Brushing

After your teeth have been thoroughly cleaned, the hygienist will brush them with a high-powered electric brush. We use a special toothpaste that helps eliminate stains and strengthen enamel. It does, however, have a gritty texture. This tooth polishing is considered safe to do twice a year if done by a professional. However, don’t be as rough on your teeth at home, as this will wear down the enamel.

Flossing

Whether you floss at home or not, nothing beats a professional flossing session. Your dental hygienist can reach deep between your teeth and identify any potential problem areas where you may bleed at the gums. Not to mention they can fully see your teeth. Nothing beats professional flossing! 

Rinse + Fluoride Treatment

After that, we will rinse your mouth of any debris. Depending on the patient, we may rinse with fluoride. Of course, we will be rinsing your mouth in between each step to ensure that you can relax without toothpaste or tartar in your mouth. 

A fluoride treatment is the final step in the cleaning process. For several months, this treatment is used as a preventative measure for your teeth to help fight cavities. Both children and adults can benefit from fluoride treatments, says Dr. Wade. 

Your dental hygienist may inquire as to which flavor you prefer. This foamy gel will be applied to your teeth. It is typically takes one minute. Fluoride varnish is also applied to the teeth with a small brush in addition to the foamy gel. Because fluoride varnish hardens when it comes into contact with saliva, you can eat and drink right away.

Contact a Dentist Near Me

Whether you’re visiting our dental office in Pinellas Park for a dental cleaning or other dental services, we’re here to help. Hopefully, you feel a little more comfortable visiting your dentist now that you know what happens during a dental cleaning. If you have any questions or concerns or would like to schedule an appointment, contact Park Boulevard Family Dental today!