 As adults, most of us understand the importance of looking after our teeth. After all, we only have one set to last our entire adult lives. However, even though your child's milk teeth only last until they are 12, it is still important to establish healthy brushing habits as soon as possible.
Teaching your children about tooth brushing can be a challenge. This is can quickly become a chore and is difficult to fit into a busy daily routine. Unfortunately, tooth decay is one of the most chronic diseases in children at the moment and this can have a big impact on their life. This can affect how your children eat, speak, and learn. To help you out we've put together some ways that you can inject a little fun into your morning and evening oral health routine! Let's take a look at some great ways that you can make tooth brushing for kids fun! 1. Brush Your Teeth Together Children love to learn socially so showing them that you brush your teeth can really help them. This also shows them that everyone has to brush their teeth to stay healthy. So they are more likely to associate it with being fun and grown-up. Try to carve out a time in your routine to brush your teeth altogether. This could be after breakfast in the morning and just after bathtime. Try to brush after each meal if possible. 2. Let Them Pick a Cool Toothbrush Letting your child choose their toothbrush is a great way to get them excited about brushing. It also gives them a sense of control and purpose over the activity. Of course, it's important that they have an age-appropriate brush. So try to narrow down their choices before you offer it to them! 3. Find a Song to Brush To For thorough cleaning, you and your kids should brush for at least two minutes twice a day. This can feel like a long time for a child, especially when their attention span is short. Finding fun ways to measure this time can really help. You might want to get a cool hourglass or stopwatch. Or you could find a song that they love to brush to. This is a great way of establishing a tooth brushing routine — simply put the song on and away you go! 4. Play Around With Tooth Brushing Technique Your children need to learn how best to brush their teeth so why not have some fun with this? You can try out different tooth brushing techniques when your kids get a new toothbrush. To start with, show them how you brush and then see if they can copy. This is a great way to teach them about circular brushing motions versus up and down brushing. You can also use this time to show them different parts of your mouth and how to clean them best. Make sure to show them the hard to reach areas that are most often missed. Around the very back molars in the mouth and the areas closest to the tongue. Your kids might want to look at their own mouths when they do this so make sure you have a mirror to hand. 5. Create a Star Chart You should always praise your kids whenever they clean their teeth. This is a good way of positively reinforcing their routine. But you can take this further by creating a rewards chart as well. Rewards charts are easy to make — all you need is some colored cards, some pens, and some stickers. Then you can add a sticker every time they brush their teeth properly. Over time you can create a rewards scheme so a certain number of stickers will result in a prize! This is a great way of incentivizing your kids to stick with their brushing. 6. Teach Them How to Brush on Their Toys Kids are often being told or shown what they need to do or having it done for them! This can leave them feeling like they don't have a lot of independence, which takes the fun out of things. So why not put them in charge and let them brush one of their toy's teeth at bedtime after they've done their own? Of course, you need to pick a toy that is easy to clean. Alternatively, you can let them try their technique out on you. This role reversal is sure to make them giggle — plus you can always try out your best 'aaah' sounds for comic effect! 7. Plan an Exciting Dentist Visit Kids won't always understand how brushing your teeth every day impacts your long-term health. Teaching them to associate dental care with family dentist visits can help them get their heads around this. It is a good idea to try and make visiting the dentist as fun as possible. This might involve planning a fun activity before or after a dentist visit. For example, they could go and collect their star-chart reward after seeing the dentist! Creating this positive association early on will make them more confident about seeing the dentist in the future. It will also help to reinforce the importance of their everyday teeth brushing routine. Keep These Tooth Brushing Tips in Mind As you can see, when it comes to encouraging your kids with their tooth brushing it's all about finding the fun! Making this a fun activity now will also help them establish a healthy tooth cleaning routine in the future. So it's worth putting the time in. We've got loads more great advice on looking after your dental hygiene. For more inspiration, check out our top tips for keeping your teeth clean between dental visits.
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 About 13% of children and 26% of adults have untreated dental caries. Meanwhile, only 86% of children and 65% of adults have visited a dentist in the past year. It's important to learn how to maintain your oral health between visits.
Otherwise, your risk of tooth decay will only increase between appointments. Instead, follow these seven essential dental care tips. With these tips, you can keep your teeth clean between dental appointments. You'll have peace of mind knowing you're doing everything to improve the state of your teeth! Keep your teeth sparkling and clean with these seven simple tips today. 1. Make It Routine While it might seem like a simple tip, many adults and children neglect to brush twice a day. If you want to improve your dental care this year, make it a habit. Brushing after every meal would be ideal if possible. If you have younger children, consider brushing as a family. Younger children usually want to mimic their parents. If they see you brushing, they might get into the habit, too. Neglecting to brush your teeth two to three times a day will allow plaque to coat the surface of your teeth. Plaque can harden into tartar over time. You'll need to visit your dentist to clear tartar away with a professional cleaning. Otherwise, your risk of gum disease and tooth decay could increase. Instead, make sure to brush two to three times a day after meals. Brushing can keep plaque from building up. Make sure to brush every single tooth. Brush using circular motions and at the focus on the gumline where plaque accumulates. You don't have to go over the top to maintain your routine. Instead, brush after every meal for at least two minutes. Don't forget to floss every night at bedtime, too! Flossing will ensure food particles and plaque don't remain trapped between your teeth and under your gums. Otherwise, your gums could become infected and inflamed. If you're not flossing, you could develop gum disease. Signs of gum disease include sensitivity, changes in your bite, and swollen gums. Talk to your Upland dentist about your flossing technique to make sure you're thoroughly cleaning each tooth. 2. Cut Bad Habits Bad habits like smoking and consuming large amounts of sugar can wreak havoc on your teeth. Instead, use these dental care tips to improve the state of your teeth between appointments. First, try to avoid drinking soda regularly. The ingredients responsible for making soda fizz can eat away at your tooth enamel. Your enamel protects your teeth from potential decay. If the phosphoric and citric acid in soda breaks down your tooth enamel, it could increase your risk of cavities. Instead, try to drink more water. Water can wash away bacteria, acid and food particles that are clinging to the surface of your teeth. Try to limit how much sugar you have each day, too. Minimizing your sugar intake can keep your teeth healthy and clean between visits. Otherwise, sugar will feed and promote bacterial growth in your mouth. This bacteria released acid that damages enamel. Acidity and bacterial growth can also cause plaque. The bacteria growing in the plaque can increase your risk of tooth decay or gum disease. Don't worry; you don't have to cut out sugar completely. Instead, try to limit how much you consume. If you have something sweet, try to do it before you're planning to brush. If you want to improve your tooth health this year, consider cutting smoking out of your routine, too. Smoking can have a lasting impact on the state of teeth and gums. In fact, the nicotine and tar in cigarettes can start to eat away at your gums. Smoking can cause bacteria production to increase, too. As plaque forms, your risk of gum disease and tooth decay will continue to rise. Smoking could increase your risk of oral cancer and tooth loss as well. 3. Adjust Your Diet A few small changes to your diet can have a major positive impact on your dental care. Consider adding foods that will benefit your oral health to your routine. For example, you can start consuming more dairy. Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and milk are high in phosphates and calcium. These minerals can help strengthen your teeth. Consider adding in mints that contains xylitol. Xylitol can combat the bacteria that causes cavities. Mints with xylitol can keep your gums and teeth clean. In fact, they can also boost saliva production. Saliva can fight against cavities and gum disease. 4. Use the Right Technique Brushing your teeth twice a day is only part of the equation. How you brush your teeth matters as well. Take a moment to consider your technique. First, make sure to hold the brush at a 45-degree angle. Then, use circular, short motions. Make sure to point the brush toward your gum line, too. Then, brush each tooth between 10 and 15 times. Using the proper technique will ensure you clean every tooth thoroughly. If you're unsure about your current technique, talk to the best dentist in Upland! They can help make sure you're brushing properly. 5. Chew Gum Consider chewing on a stick of sugar-free gum after lunch. Gum can freshen your breath and remove excess food particles between brushings. Gum can also boost your saliva production. Your saliva contains natural antibacterial properties. It could prevent bacteria from feeding off of food particles in your mouth as a result. 6. Change Your Brush Make sure to switch out your toothbrush every three to four months. If the bristles look weak, they might not work as effectively. Instead, switch brushes each time you visit your dentist. 7. Schedule Checkups It's not enough to use these dental care tips, though. You also need to make sure you're visiting the dentist twice a year. They can help ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. They can also help you catch signs of decay or gum disease before the problem gets worse. Brush Up: 7 Dental Care Tips for Stunning, Healthy Teeth Don't let bacteria and plaque impact the state of your teeth between appointments. Instead, use these dental care tips to keep your teeth healthy and clean. With these tips, you can visit your dentist feeling confident in the state of your teeth. Want to discuss your dental care with the best dentist in Upland? We can't wait to see you. Contact us today to get started.  If you're searching for a confident smile, you may be worried that painful metal braces are the only option for you. But did you know that the Invisalign clear system can correct even severe dental issues?
Simple, less painful, and almost impossible to see, Invisalign aligners are growing in popularity each year. But what exactly is Invisalign, and what are the benefits of this system? We're here to answer these questions and more in this guide to all your Invisalign FAQs, so don't go anywhere! Keep reading for information that could help you on your way to a brand new smile! How Do Invisalign Aligners Work? Traditional metal braces use brackets and wires to pull your teeth into their desired position and require painful tightening. Instead of metal and wire, Invisialgin users clear aligners to accomplish the same task. Your dentist will create a treatment plan based on a scan of your mouth and your dental goals. Based on this plan, they create clear aligners that will snap neatly over your teeth. As time goes on and your teeth gradually change positions, your aligners will be swapped out for new ones. The end result? A brand new smile that you can flash with confidence! Is Invisalign Painful? Traditional braces have a reputation for being painful, especially after they are tightened. And unlike Invisalign aligners, they cannot be removed at home if they are causing extreme discomfort. Invisalign is considered to be far more comfortable than metal braces, though soreness during treatment is still common. Most patients report that they experience mild pain during their first week that fades as time goes on. Eventually, you may not even remember that your wearing aligners! If at any point the pain seems more severe than usual or the aligners are not fitting correctly over your teeth, you should seek an appointment with your provider as soon as possible. How Long Does Invisalign Take? The length of your treatment will depend on your goals and the current placement of your teeth. Generally, the more severe the displacement the longer treatment will take. The average time of treatment is about 12 to 18 months, though it can be shorter or longer depending on several factors like age and dental health. The older teeth are the more effort it takes to move them, meaning that treatment in a teen will usually take less time than someone in their 30s. Compared to the average treatment time of metal braces, which is 18-24 months, Invisalign is often the quicker option. What Dental Problems Can Invisalign Treat? Some of the most common dental problems Invisalign is used to correct include:
Are Any Foods Off Limits With Invisalign? Many patients with metal braces are disappointed to find that several foods can't be eaten during treatment. Luckily, Invisalign has no such problems! Because you should be taking your aligners out every time you eat, you never need to worry about what food your eating. Instead, you just need to remember to remove, brush your teeth, and put your aligners back on after snacks or meals. How Much Does Invisalign Cost? For most patients, the cost of their Invisalign treatment is comparable to the cost of traditional braces. The total cost of Invisalign will depend on the severity of the teeth misalignment, the time treatment takes, and how well you follow the program instructions. Failing to follow your provider's guidance could result in a longer process, which in turn can up the cost of your treatment. Most insurance plans will cover Invisalign treatment the same way they would traditional metal braces. To find out more about what Invisalign could cost for you, speak with your dental provider. Is Invisalign Suitable For Children? Today, metal braces are no longer the first option for many parents. Simple, invisible, and less painful, the Invisalign system has many benefits over traditional braces that make it appealing to parents and kids alike. While teens typically do very well with Invisalign, younger children are not always ideal for this method of treatment. When deciding if Invisalign is right for your child, you should consider their maturity. Invisalign aligners should be in for at least 22 hours a day in order for treatment to progress properly. Because the aligners can be removed easily, you should make sure your child understands the commitment of Invisalign. If you feel your child will keep the aligners in the minimum amount of time and follow all dental provider instructions with your guidance. Invisalign could be a great option for them. Another great reason for choosing Invisalign is because it is so much easier to brush and floss your teeth during treatment. Since the aligners can be removed to brush and floss, it is easier to clean your teeth, and reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease. To learn more about what options may be best for your child, speak with them and their dental care provider. Beginner's Invisalign FAQ Guide If you or your child are interested in improving your smile and your dental health, you have more options than ever before. Today, Invisalign is one of the most popular alternatives to traditional braces and comes with several amazing benefits. Now that you know the answers to some of the most burning Invisalign FAQs, you're ready to take the next step on your dental journey! Looking for more information on Invisalign and other dental health topics? Reach out today to schedule a visit with our office and speak with our team of dental experts!  Finding a good family dentist might be more difficult than you think if you don't know what qualities to look for. There are several family dentists in the Rancho Cucamonga, CA area, but how can you be sure you choose the right one for you and your family? You can always conduct an online search for, "a family dentist near me," but this won't give you all the information you need to make the best selection possible.
After finding several dentists in your area, you should then begin to conduct further research. There are a few different qualities that make a great family dentist. What's most important is knowing what factors to look for to help you find the best family dentist for you. Not sure where to begin? There's no need to worry! In the guide below, you'll find several key factors to take into consideration when choosing dental care for the entire family. Continue reading below to get started! Your Insurance Network A great starting place when on the hunt for the best family dentist is your insurance network. It's not a secret that dental work without insurance coverage can get expensive. This is why it might be best to find a family dentist who's covered under your insurance. Keep in mind that not all dentists accept the same insurance and not all dentists accept young children. You'll need to contact the dentist directly and ensure they not only accept your insurance but accept young children as well. You can also contact your insurance and ask for a list of dentists in your area that accept it. Both are great options. If you do find a dentist that doesn't accept your insurance, but you want to see them, then you can also inquire about financing options. Many dentists will offer financing options such as payment plans if needed. The Type of Services Offered The next factor to consider is the type of services offered. Do you have specific dental needs? Are there specific services you want the dentist to provide? For example, will you need dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, Invisalign or something else? You should make sure that the dentist can provide you with the type of dental services you need before choosing them as your family dentist. You can contact the dentist and ask them about the different types of services they provide. You may also be able to find more information about services offered by checking their website. Reviews and Reputation Once you find a dentist who can provide you with the dental services you require, the next step is looking up reviews and learning more about the dentist's reputation. You can find reviews on dentists' websites and social media pages, but you can also find reviews on review sites. Take the time to read through several reviews before making a final decision. You can also consider contacting the dentist and asking for a couple of references. If you're given a reference or two, then do make sure to call each one. Ask these past patients about their own experience with that specific dentist. What did they enjoy about visiting the dentist and what didn't they enjoy? Don't hesitate to speak with friends and family as well. If they have a good family dentist they would recommend, then be sure to look into that dentist also. The Proper License and Certification A reputable dentist will have a proper license and certification to perform dental procedures on patients. Never hesitate to ask each dentist to show proof of their license and certifications. You should be able to search their license online to ensure it's up to date and legitimate. If a dentist refuses to show you proof of their license, then you may want to continue your search. A reputable and licensed dentist should have no problem showing you proof of their license and all dental certifications as well. The Location and Hours Now you'll want to take the location and hours into consideration. Although driving a few more miles for a great dentist is definitely worth the drive and time, do keep convenience in mind. Try to find a dentist located in your area that you can easily get to after work or school. Be sure to look up the hours as well. If you want to schedule an appointment when your children get out of school or when you get off work, will you be able to do so? Can you make it there on time? A dentist with a convenient location and hours for you is a wonderful choice, but don't hesitate to drive a bit further if that's where the dentist you like is located. A Tour of the Office After narrowing down your search to a few great dentists in your area, you can then contact each one and request a tour of the office. An office tour is a great way to get a better feel for the dentist, the staff, and the office environment. Is the office friendly and welcoming? Does your child feel safe and comfortable? How does the staff treat you and your family? Keep these key questions in mind while touring the office. Have You Found the Right Family Dentist for You? Are you still on the hunt for an awesome family dentist in Chino, CA? After reading through this guide, we hope you're able to make a well-informed decision. Use the information listed above to help navigate you through the process of finding the best family dentist for you and your little ones. At Upland Dental Implant and Orthodontics, we're excited to bring smiles to all our patients no matter what their age. Schedule an appointment today to see how we can help you.  Toothaches, discomfort, and a self-conscious smile — all these are the result of crooked teeth and bad oral health.
If you're here, you already know that. In fact, clicking on this post at all means that you're interested in the potential of adult braces. They're a great option, though underestimated by many. But while they don't look too glamorous, they can still look neutral against many users and come with plenty of aesthetic and health benefits! So keep reading to understand seven reasons why you should get braces as an adult. Whatever your short-term hesitations are, they don't compare to how permanently beneficial adult braces are. 1. Jaw Realignment Braces do more than straighten out your teeth. They can even correct jaw misalignment, which can result in a significant change in facial structure for some. Anyone dealing with an intense underbite or overbite will experience long-term, permanent changes in jaw positioning through adult braces. Braces ensure that your upper and lower teeth meet. To do that, braces will slowly realign your jaw so that your teeth are aligned as needed. But this benefit isn't only good for aesthetic reasons. Jaw misalignment can also complicate chewing and cause certain people to unevenly wear down their teeth. By going to an orthodontist for braces, patients can enjoy meals and relax with a little more peace. 2. Reduction in Pain/Discomfort Teeth have nerve endings too, and having them out of place can have pretty painful consequences. Namely, crooked teeth can cause pain and/or discomfort by placing pressure against each other and on the gums. They'll also become more sensitive when they're constantly put under pressure. Fixing a toothache around a crooked tooth will ease the discomfort for a short while. But most likely, your family dentist will then recommend you get braces since this will probably happen again in the future. 3. Disease Prevention Misaligned teeth can also impact your health by attracting gum disease and activities. That's because it's so much harder to clean them when they are misaligned. The bristles from your toothbrush won't reach these tooth gaps so easily, and it'll be harder be floss. Your last resort will be a professional cleaning to remove all the debris and food from your mouth. When this debris and food stays in your mouth, it can cause painful and foul-smelling problems. Whatever's left behind can then fester, which leads to issues like cavities and gingivitis (gum infection). Bad oral health can also make your breath smell worse, causing social discomfort on top of physical discomfort. 4. Braces Options These days, there's plenty of braces options for adults. But first, we'd advise you not to be self-conscious about braces. There are plenty of neutral color and barely visible options that you can choose from, and many clients venture out with their braces with confidence. But if that won't convince you, you can consider an option like Invisalign or lingual braces, braces on the inside of your teeth. While they are pricier than their metal counterparts, Invisalign aligners are less invasive and aren't visible to any casual onlookers. Users don't have the food restrictions like they do with braces and can clean their teeth much more easily. 5. Affordability Braces are an investment, but there financial plans that can make them affordable and always ask for different options. Are there any 0% interest payment plan options? Are there cash payoff discounts? Talk to your office financial coordinator about the best payment options for you. There's also plenty of options if you have dental insurance. While dental insurance coverage depends on the plan, many will offer benefits with orthodontic plans to cover teeth realignment treatments. In terms of cost, preventing bad oral health also means preventing future costs fixing it. So think of adult braces as an investment — otherwise, you might face worse problems later on. 6. It's Temporary If all this can't convince you yet, remember that braces are temporary but the satisfaction that follows is lifelong. Though you may hesitate to get braces now, adults that do rarely regret their choice to do so. After all, you should be able to spend the rest of your adult life with the smile you prefer! Think about the big picture while you make your final decision. 7. Long-Term Confidence Boost Unless you already had relatively straight teeth, braces will make a big difference to your smile and the confidence behind it. Other people will notice the difference too, which will make you feel even better about your decision. But of course, your happiness with your decision shouldn't depend on others' validation. Just imagine the satisfaction you'll feel when those braces come off. It might be enough motivation to get you to call your local dental office. Invest in a Bright Smile With Adult Braces! If you've been dealing with a self-conscious smile your whole life, it's time to be proactive about it. Even if you hesitate to get adult braces, don't think of it as "adult braces" — think of it as your transition to the next part of your life. A chapter where when you smile, you smile with 100% confidence. Whether you need a dentist in Rancho Cucamonga, a dentist from Chino, a dentist from Wildomar, or a dentist from Upland — when you're ready to book an appointment, we'll be waiting here at Upland Dental Implant and Orthodontics!  Do you have an infected, painful, or missing tooth? Has a dentist recommended that you have a root canal or dental implant surgery?
Don't fear! Dental implants are 98% successful and can help fix many dental issues. Continue reading to learn about dental implants and the seven different reasons you may need them. What Are Dental Implants? Three components make up dental implants: the titanium implant, abutment, and crown. Not only do dental implants replace the tooth, but they replace the root as well. Your family dentist uses these parts to create a natural-looking and long-lasting dental implant. Do You Need Dental Implants? Dental implants are a common and popular tooth replacement option that many dentists choose. It is important that you stay informed when it comes to your dental health. Here are seven specific reasons you may benefit from dental implant surgery. 1. You Have an Infected Tooth A tooth infection can be caused by an injury that never healed, tooth decay caused by an untreated cavity, or previous dental work. An infected tooth can cause unbearable pain, and a dentist should treat it immediately. A root canal procedure can save some infected teeth. However, if the infection is bad enough, your dentist may recommend a dental implant. Your dentist would pull the infected tooth. Then they will replace the infected tooth with a dental implant that is as strong as your natural teeth and will last decades. 2. You Do Not Want Dentures Dentures are a prevalent way to replace teeth, but they can be annoying and cause you to feel self-conscious. Unlike dentures, dental implants are able to adjust as your gums and facial structure changes through time. Dental implants are also easier for you to take care of than complete or partial dentures. To properly clean dentures, you must remove, soak, and brush them at least once a day, if not more. Cleaning dental implants is the same process as your normal oral hygiene routine. You brush and floss your dental implants like the rest of your natural teeth. When you get dental implants, you also do not have to deal with the sticky, messy adhesive that dentures require. 3. You Are Missing Teeth Missing teeth can result from several causes like diabetes, the use of tobacco productions, genetic issues, and a poor diet. Having missing teeth can affect how you chew, smile, and talk. Dental implants are a good option if you are missing a tooth or even multiple teeth. When several of your teeth are missing your jawbone will atrophy, thus causing bone loss in your jaw. This process can cause you to lose even more teeth. By replacing the missing teeth, you can prevent bone resorption from occurring and protect yourself from facial structure collapse. Replacing missing teeth with custom dental implants offers a natural-looking replacement that is durable and needs no special care. 4. Your Teeth Are Cracked or Broken Severe tooth cracks on teeth that cannot be saved need to be replaced with dental implants. An example of a type of cracks that cannot be saved by a root canal or other procedures is a split tooth. Extreme cracks in teeth are vertical, and they start at the enamel and go into the nerve center, or pulp, of the broken tooth. If not replaced, cracked and broken teeth can cause severe pain, inflammation, and infection. Eventually, untreated cracks will result in the loss of the whole tooth. 5. You Want a More Natural-Looking Smile Dental implants offer a more natural-looking tooth than other replacement options. Because of advancements in dental care, the materials that make up the crown of the implant can match your natural teeth perfectly. Also, the dental implant is placed below the gum, so your gum tissue also looks natural. Meanwhile, dentures use acrylic to replicate your gum line, and it looks fake. If you have a dental implant, no one will even know! When you have a beautiful, natural-looking smile can boost your confidence. You will never feel the need to cover up your smile again. 6. Your Dentures Do Not Fit Correctly One issue that many people have with dentures is that they sit awkwardly in your mouth. This can cause people to have issues speaking and excessive salivation. Dentures can also shift and not stay in place, but dental implants are permanently screwed into your mouth and will not shift. Because dental implants are created to replicate your natural teeth, they fit in your mouth the same way your natural teeth do. 7. You Want a Permanent Fix for Your Dental Issues Unlike the other tooth replacement options like a root canal procedure or dentures, dental implants are a permanent solution to your problems. Root canal failure is painful, costly, and time-consuming. When a root canal fails, the typical solution is to completely replace the tooth. Instead of risking that trouble, you can begin with a dental implant for a long-lasting result. Dentures also need to be replaced when they become stained, when they break, or if you misplace them. With the use of dental implants, you will not have to worry as much about these issues. Want to Know More? Are you looking for the best dentist near you? At Upland Dental, we have dentists in Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Chino, and Wildomar that are ready to serve your dental needs. Please contact us for more information about dental implants or to learn about or other services.  The benefits of Invisalign go way beyond straight teeth. In fact, Invisalign can also boost your confidence.
Many patients don't think to ask their dentist at Upland Dental about Invisalign because they don't understand all of the benefits they have to offer. However, as your trusted family dentist, we're here to help. In this article, we discuss the benefits of Invisalign including easier visits to the orthodontist, better hygiene than braces, and more. Continue reading to find out if Invisalign is right for you. What Is Invisalign? Invisalign is a newer alternative to traditional braces that are made out of medical-grade resin. The resin is clear, making it practically invisible to those around you. Each set of these invisible aligners are custom-made to help shift your teeth to where they need to be. Your dentist in Upland does this by taking scans of your teeth. Once ready, your orthodontist performs a fitting to makes sure everything is where it needs to be. They will then instruct you to wear these at least 22 hours a day and between meals. While 22 hours a day seems like a lot, it's necessary to get the beautifully straight teeth you want. Whether you're looking for a dentist in Wildomar, Rancho Cucamonga, Chino, or Upland, our team can get you quickly on your way to enjoying the benefits listed below. What Are the Benefits of Invisalign? If you have a dentist in Rancho Cucamonga who is part of our Upland Dental team, you are well on your way to enjoying the many benefits Invisalign has to offer. That's because we have plenty of experience working with these invisible aligners and can answer any questions you have. Straighter Teeth As our dentist in Chino will tell you, Invisalign has a lot to offer including straighter teeth. Crooked teeth can lead to a variety of other health issues including gum disease, bad breath, and cavities. Instead of waiting for these problems to occur and correcting them with painful procedures such as a root canal or a dental implant, it's easier to prevent them. This includes issues with overbites and underbites. These issues can result in jaw pain that can make chewing difficult. Over time, jaw pain can worsen or teeth grinding can occur. Invisalign will help bring your jaw back into alignment and alleviate these issues. Comfortable One of the top complaints we hear about traditional metal braces has to do with discomfort. The sharp edges of the metal are uncomfortable and can cut into your lips and inner cheeks. Invisalign has smooth edges that don't rub or dig into your skin. Plus, our skilled dentist in Wildomar is great at making you as comfortable as possible when it comes to all dental procedures. This includes a visit to our orthodontist. Our years of experience make sure you get the most comfortable, custom fit with Invisalign. Better Hygiene Unlike traditional braces or dental implants, Invisalign can be cleaned at any time. The fact that they are removable is one of the biggest benefits of Invisalign. Bits of food or plaque that build up along your gums with traditional braces can lead to bad breath, gum disease, and/or tooth decay. Once removed, you are free to brush and floss your teeth as you would normally. Plus, there's no need for any special equipment. Our dentist in Wildomar also recommends making sure to clean the inside of your aligners and case. Make sure to do this daily to avoid any bacteria buildup. Brushing the aligners after every meal and do a 30 minute hydrogen peroxide soak daily will help keep them clean. Easy Fitting If you or someone you know has had braces, you understand the extensive process involved with fittings. Fortunately, as our dentist in Rancho Cucamonga will tell you, this isn't necessary with Invisalign. Advancements in our technology mean that we can collect 3D prints of your teeth without goopy impressions. Increase Self-Confidence Your family dentist at Upland Dental will be the first to tell you how Invisalign will give you a huge boost in your self-confidence. Feeling confident in your smile is a great step toward feeling confident in all aspects of your life. Not only will you enjoy the benefits of straighter teeth, but you can do so without uncomfortable and less attractive metal braces. No one will know you are wearing Invisalign aligners if you don't tell them or show them. No Food or Drink Limitations It's likely that you or a friend has heard their orthodontist say "you can't eat ______ with braces." One of the benefits of Invisalign is that there are no food or drink restrictions. This is because you can remove your aligners while you eat and then put your aligners back in. However, before putting them back in, our dentist in Chino recommends brushing your teeth. Talk with Your Dentist at Upland Dental About Invisalign We strongly believe in meeting our patient's needs with the best technology available. That's why our dentists at all of our locations recommend Invisalign. Talk with your family dentist at Upland Dental to learn all about the benefits of Invisalign. If you love the idea of a boost in your self-confidence, no food restrictions, easy fittings, and straighter teeth, it's worth starting the discussion. To find out more about Invisalign or to schedule an appointment, contact us today. We're happy to help!  26% of adults in the United States have tooth decay that isn't being treated. Dental concerns and oral health problems are probably more common than you think!
One dental problem that you might be dealing with is gray teeth. Are you dealing with gray teeth that make you uncomfortable? Do you have discoloration that causes you to hide your teeth or smile less? If you have gray teeth, and you don't know why it's happened, keep reading to learn more about the issue and what you can do to make it go away. Why Do You Have Gray Teeth? The causes of your gray teeth can be attributed to a lot of different factors. Unfortunately, there are some people that may have gray teeth due to factors out of their control. Dealing with gray teeth can be stressful and uncomfortable for anyone. This is especially true if they make the person self-conscious. Knowing the reason that you have the gray teeth can help you accept them and move forward! Some of the reasons that you might have gray teeth are:
Some people have teeth that have gray spots instead of the whole tooth being gray. Others have one or more teeth that are completely gray all the way through. If you have gray lines on teeth, gray stains on teeth, or discolored teeth that appear gray, you may be dealing with one of these issues. What Can You Do to Fix Gray Teeth? When your teeth are gray, the best thing to do when you want to make them white is apply a whitening agent. This is what will help your teeth return to a more healthy color. Seeking the help of a professional, like the dental professionals at Upland Dental, should be the first step. A professional will look at your teeth to determine if any other treatments are needed. If you have tooth trauma or are dealing with a disorder that is causing grayness, you may need more work done so the teeth will remain white after treatment. Otherwise, your teeth may turn gray again, and you'll have to get the whitening repeated over and over. Meeting with a dental professional for an appointment is a good way to improve the look of your teeth and create a healthy environment for your mouth overall. Can You Whiten Gray Teeth? If your teeth are gray, the first thing that you want to do is reach for the whitening products. You may want to hold off until you speak with your dentist first. You can whiten gray teeth with different techniques, but you have to use the right methods to make sure it is done correctly. It's possible to have do-it-yourself whitening methods done at home, but it's a good idea to talk with your dentist first to make sure that the chosen method is safe. Some simple ways to whiten teeth include:
It's important to note that not all teeth will respond to whiteners on the first try. In addition to that, if your tooth is dead or has turned gray because it is dying, your dentist may want to discuss alternative treatment options with you other than whitening. What if Whitening Doesn't Work? If whitening your teeth doesn't seem to have any effect on the gray color, you do have some other options to cover it up. One thing you could talk to your dental professional about is porcelain veneers. These are applied by removing some of the natural enamel on your tooth and then adding a coat of porcelain. They aren't recommended for all patients but may work if you are a good candidate. Usually, it takes two visits to the dentist for this procedure to be completed (consultation appointment and procedure appointment). If your gray teeth are caused by serious damage or decay, a crown is another option to consider. Crowns today are able to match the rest of your teeth very naturally. They may be covered by your health insurance depending on the plan you have and the main reason for needing the crown. What About When Baby Teeth Are Discolored Gray? Some of the same issues that impact adult teeth can impact baby teeth as well. Things like not brushing well, tooth injury or trauma, illness, or certain medications can all cause your child's baby teeth to appear discolored. You can fix a lot of these issues at home, especially if having too many sugary drinks or not brushing the teeth is the cause of the gray teeth. However, if your child has gray teeth and you're not sure why, they should see the dentist and have the root of the issue diagnosed. Depending on the reason that the teeth are grey, there are likely different treatment options available. If it is a cosmetic issue alone, talk to the dentist to see if whitening the teeth is a good idea before making any decisions. We Can Help Fix Your Gray Teeth No one wants to have gray teeth, but rest assured that there are treatments available! If you're dealing with gray teeth and want to get some answers, we are here for you. Contact us today to discuss your concerns and make an appointment with one of our dental professionals. Despite their fun and endearing name, wisdom teeth can end up causing a lot of problems when they grow in. Because of this, you might need to undergo surgery in order to have the wisdom teeth removed. If you don't get them removed, then they could end up crowding and damaging neighboring teeth.
After you get your wisdom teeth taken out, it is very important that you get the right nutrition. This will help you aid the wound-healing process, receive nourishment, reduce swelling, and minimize the chances of complications occurring. But what are the right foods to eat after wisdom teeth removal? We're glad you asked. You should eat foods that are soft and easy to eat. They should have plenty of protein, energy, minerals, and vitamins too. So keep on reading and we will take you through the top foods that you should eat after getting your wisdom teeth removed. 1. Blended Soups A blended soup, like pumpkin or tomato soup, is great to eat after you have had your wisdom teeth taken out. These soups are easy to consume and they don't contain pieces that could irritate the sensitive areas of your mouth. Also, soups tend to be rich in minerals and vitamins. This can help make sure that you get your daily nutrition recommendations when you can't eat a lot of whole vegetables and fruits. Blended soups can also help make sure that you stay hydrated, which is very important after undergoing surgery. It's a good idea to have a soup that is either cold or lukewarm. This is because hot foods can cause irritation. Also, make sure that you blend vegetable soups to be as smooth as possible so that there aren't any chunks. 2. Broths Similar to blended soups, broths are another great source of nourishment after surgery. They are delicious and also contain lots of minerals and vitamins. Also, broths are a great way to stay hydrated if you are having problems drinking enough water. Bone broth comes with many health benefits. It is a nutritious stock that's made by simmering animal tissue and bones. 3. Greek Yogurt Greek yogurt has a creamy and smooth texture that is soothing and can help numb the mouth. Greek yogurt contains a high amount of protein. It also has plenty of vitamins and minerals, including zinc and calcium. Foods that are high in protein can help speed up the recovery process. Also, consuming a lot of zinc can help with wound healing. Many foods that are rich in zinc, like steak, are too difficult to eat after dental surgery. So Greek yogurt is a great alternative. 4. Mashed Potatoes Potatoes are a root vegetable that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Mashed potatoes can be a comforting dish that is easy to eat after having your wisdom teeth taken out. They are rich in nutrients and calories, which are helpful when you're recovering. People who are recovering from surgery tend to have slightly higher energy requirements. Mashed potatoes also let you get a lot of energy and nutrients with only a few bites. Just make sure that your mashed potatoes aren't too hot. 5. Scrambled Eggs One of the best foods you can eat in general is eggs. And that is doubly true when it comes to people who are recovering from wisdom teeth surgery. Eggs are a great source of protein and they contain plenty of minerals and vitamins. Try to find pasteurized eggs or eggs that are omega-3-enriched. Scrambled eggs are easier to chew when compared to other kinds of egg dishes. 6. Applesauce If you know anyone who ever had their tonsils taken out as a kid, then you probably saw them slurping down applesauce at some point. If you've recently had your wisdom teeth taken out, then eating a crunchy and hard apple is out of the question. However, you can easily consume some applesauce without any issues. It should be noted that most applesauce products are made from puréed apples, and those apples have usually been cored and peeled. This can reduce the nutritional value of the food. An apple's skin contains a lot of fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Nevertheless, apple sauce can be a good way to get some vitamin C in. 9. Avocados Avocados seem to be all over the place nowadays. While most fruits tend to be high in carbs, avocados are very low in carbs but high in healthy fats. Their creamy and smooth texture makes them great for people who are recovering from dental surgery. These fruits are also very nutritious and a rich source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin K. To make them even easier to eat, consider eating mashed or whipped avocados. The Importance of Knowing What Foods to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal to Reduce Pain Hopefully, after reading the above article, you now have a better idea of what the best foods to eat after wisdom teeth removal are. As we can see, you should mainly stick to creamy and cold or lukewarm foods in order to avoid irritation while getting in all of your essential nutrients. Because creamy foods tend to contain a lot of sugar, you should stay vigilant and make sure that you check all nutrition labels. Are you looking for a reliable and experienced dentist in Rancho Cucamonga? If you are, then contact us today and see what we can do for you! |
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