Diamons

Blog

Photography by Dr. Padval

Should You Use Mouthwash?

The Answer is... Maybe! Mouthwash, or mouth rinses, are primarily used to remove food debris after brushing and flossing. They provide a pleasant taste, freshen the breath, and (depending on the active ingredient) can also protect against plaque & bacteria, periodontal disease, and/or cavities. So should everyone use mouthwash? Not exactly. Some people who use it will see only marginal benefits over brushing and flossing alone. Furthermore, repeated use of alcohol-based mouthwash can irritate soft tissue, damage the mucous membrane, and contribute to dry [...]

By |2020-06-23T08:00:15-07:00June 23, 2020|Preventative Dentistry|

Does Gum Disease Hurt?

Periodontal Disease Can Be Painless One of the reasons gum disease is such a problem is that it progresses gradually, often with no pain during the initial stages. So how can you tell if you're affected? Have a look at some of the symptoms: Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing - No amount of bleeding is normal. Red, swollen, or tender gums - Redness can be a sign of irritation or infection. Gums should be a healthy shade of pink or coral. Bad [...]

By |2020-06-16T08:00:03-07:00June 16, 2020|Periodontal Dentistry|

Suffering with Dental Fear?

You can overcome it, and we'll help you do it! Can't bring yourself to schedule that next appointment? You may be busy, you may be a born procrastinator, or you may suffer from unwarranted dental fear. If so, you're not alone... millions stay away each year for just that reason. Everyone in our practice understands dental fear, and we're trained in forming good relationships with fearful patients. So if you're feeling apprehensive, speak up. We'll listen to your needs and work with you to [...]

By |2020-06-09T08:00:39-07:00June 9, 2020|Fear & Anxiety|

Developing Good Habits

To Protect Children's Teeth Food & Drink Eating and drinking habits are the biggest factors in preventing childhood cavities. But, just as important as what children eat, is when they eat it. To encourage positive eating habits and prevent cavities, limit eating time to 4 or 5 periods during the day (rather than continuous snacking). By reducing the amount of time that food directly contacts teeth, you help reduce the formation of bacteria and plaque. Additionally, avoid meals and snacks that have a large [...]

By |2020-06-02T08:00:39-07:00June 2, 2020|Children's Dentistry|

TMJ Symptoms

Know the Warning Signs! TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the connecting joint between the jawbone and skull. When muscles, jawbone, and teeth all operate properly, biting and chewing is coordinated to be smooth and pain-free. Sometimes, however, things can get "out of whack." When teeth don't line up properly in the upper or lower jaws, the extra muscular stress causes muscle and jaw pain. Symptoms range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain in the face, head, neck, and teeth, plus earaches [...]

By |2020-05-26T08:00:11-07:00May 26, 2020|Restorative Dentistry|

Brighten an Aging Smile

With Professional Teeth Whitening! Since it's natural for teeth to darken as we age, teeth whitening can be one of the most effective ways to recapture that youthful appearance. Contact us today and discover how we can safely and effectively lighten the color of your teeth, either with convenient in-office treatment or at-home whitening trays! Benefits of Teeth Whitening Improve appearance and confidence At-home or in-office options 5-7 shades lighter in one treatment! (Individual results may vary) Long-lasting results Keeping Teeth White After receiving [...]

By |2020-05-19T08:00:06-07:00May 19, 2020|Cosmetic Dentistry|

Seal the Deal…

...With Dental Sealants! Prevent Cavities & Tooth Decay Molars and premolars have large chewing surfaces where crevices naturally form. Here, bacteria thrive, and cavities occur. Dental sealant is a clear composite resin that is "painted" on back teeth to act as a physical barrier to decay-causing bacteria. For children and adolescents (who may not always practice proper oral hygiene) this helps prevent cavities and preserve dental health during these formative years. Applying this composite resin coating is simple, quick, painless, and yes, inexpensive. And, [...]

By |2020-05-12T08:00:57-07:00May 12, 2020|Children's Dentistry|

Be Careful with Toothpicks

Toothpicks Can Cause Dental Injury and More Toothpicks are quick and convenient when food debris is stuck between teeth, however, they're also a common cause of dental injury. Because they are so sharp, toothpicks can damage the gums and other soft tissue when used carelessly. They are somewhat ineffective, often pushing debris farther between teeth or below the gum line. If you do find yourself using a toothpick, use only minimal pressure and always keep the tip pointed away from your gums. Safe and [...]

By |2020-05-05T08:00:24-07:00May 5, 2020|Patient Education|

Time for a New Toothbrush?

If it's been a while since you replaced your toothbrush, it may be time to look for signs of aging. If it is badly worn or frayed, it may be doing more harm than good. If you are unsure about the state of your toothbrush, just bring it in at your next appointment and we can assess the damage, discuss the variety of options, and/or review proper brushing technique. Old Toothbrush Hazards Less Effective - A worn-out toothbrush is simply less effective at removing [...]

By |2020-04-28T08:00:05-07:00April 28, 2020|Patient Education|

Choosing Breakfast

For Better Nutrition and Dental Health! It's often said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and there's a lot of truth behind it. Though the links between eating, blood sugar levels, and performance aren't fully understood, the evidence suggests that eating breakfast boosts energy and attention span in the morning hours. But the benefits depend on the menu. From the standpoint of nutrition and dental health, the day's first meal can present a dilemma. You probably know that many cereals [...]

By |2020-04-21T08:00:56-07:00April 21, 2020|Nutrition|