What brand of toothpaste is right for me?
The key ingredient recommended by the American Dental Association and River Valley Dental is Fluoride. Beyond that it is up to the consumer.
Why is Fluoride so important?
Fluoride is the only naturally occurring element that helps prevent decay by strengthening the enamel. Daily doses of fluoride in your toothpaste and fluoride mouth rinse can stop and reverse early stages of dental decay.
How can I prevent cold sensitivity?
- The most common causes of generalized cold sensitivity are vigorous brushing, recession, and use of abrasive toothpastes.
- It is important to always brush with a soft or extra-soft toothbrush and brush in a gentle circular motion. This allows you to keep the gum tissues clean without causing recession.
- The use of a toothpaste containing Potassium Nitrate, most notably "Sensodyne" can help block sensitivity due to root recession by providing a protective layer over the exposed root.
- Abrasive toothpastes include any of the brands that use the "buzz-words", Total, Complete, Extreme Clean, Tartar Control, or Extra Whitening.
- Cold sensitivity may be an indicator of a bigger problem. Always see your dentist if your symptoms do not improve or if they are localized to one area.
I brush twice daily and floss every day, why do I still have tartar build-up?
You could brush 10 times a day and you will still develop tartar. Tartar, also known as calculus, is formed by the combination of saliva and plaque. Your salivary glands are working 24 hours a day, releasing saliva, which calcifies soft plaque into hard tartar. The amount of tartar you develop is based on the individuals body chemistry. Some people develop tartar slowly while others develop enough to warrant a cleaning every 3 months. Brushing twice daily and flossing is still important because you are removing the "live" bacteria daily. It is the "live" bacteria that is responsible for decay and gum disease.
What toothbrush does my dentist use?
The staff at River Valley Dental, their significant others, and their families use the Sonicare toothbrush. It is the "Cadillac" of toothbrushes and it provides the best defense and protection against dental disease. Please see the section provided in our website to learn more about the Sonicare toothbrush.
Why do my gums bleed when I brush or floss?
Bleeding is a sign of gingivitis. Gingivitis is when the gum tissue becomes inflamed, red, puffy, and bleeds easily. Gingivitis is caused by plaque. When you see bleeding it is your gum tissues telling you that you need to do more, not less.
Why should I visit the dentist every 6 months?
A lot can change inside your mouth in 6 months. A 6 month cleaning allows us to clean you teeth with ease, making the visit as pleasant as possible. Having a check-up with the dentist every 6 months allows us to identify early decay. A small area of early decay can be remedied with a small, simple filling, or may even be stopped from development with Professional Fluoride Treatments and Oral Hygiene Instruction.