Most people know that they should visit a dentist in Midland to get their teeth cleaned at least once a year. However, the vast majority of people do not know how exactly they are supposed to prepare for these teeth cleanings. That is why this article is here to provide the various tips that someone should follow when it comes to preparing for their next teeth cleaning.
Avoid Teeth Whitening Kits
Many people believe that they should make their teeth look as white as possible before heading into the family dentist in Midland. In an attempt to do so, some individuals may go purchase a quick teeth whitening kit and decide to use it before their visit. However, it is generally a good idea to avoid getting teeth whitened within 72 hours of a scheduled tooth cleaning procedure.

This is because many of these teeth whitening kits can result in a person's teeth becoming far more sensitive. While this increased sensitivity is only temporary, it lasts for more than a few hours, which is why it is not a good idea to get them done right before someone's appointment. Otherwise, it is going to make the teeth cleaning process a far more unpleasant experience for the patient.

There is nothing wrong with wanting to get teeth whiter but it is best to wait until after a procedure to get it done. In fact, if they have the doctor perform a teeth whitening procedure immediately after the cleaning has been finished, then it should give them the best results possible.

This is because a professional tooth cleaning will manage to get a person's teeth far cleaner than any amount of brushing or flossing ever could. Therefore, the cleaner that someone's teeth are, the more significant the effect will be from the whitening process.
Brush Like Normal
When it comes to brushing teeth before a scheduled tooth cleaning, there are essentially two groups of thought. There is one group of people who think that it is not a good idea to brush their teeth at all within a couple of hours before their appointment. On the other hand, there are also people who think that they need to brush twice as long and twice as hard immediately before they leave their house for their tooth cleaning appointment.

The truth is that while neither of these groups are exactly right, it is the first group of people who have the better idea. While someone is perfectly fine brushing their teeth right before they leave for their appointment, they should avoid trying to brush extra good. They might think that they are helping out by removing as much plaque and food bacteria as possible. However, what they are actually doing is covering up any potential issues that can be pointed out to them during their tooth cleaning.

This is essentially the same thing as someone eating super healthy food that they would normally never eat for the entire 24 hours before they go to get their blood tested. If the medical professional does not have an accurate picture of a person's normal habits, then there is no way that they can give them accurate advice that will help to prevent future issues.

Therefore, if someone is going to brush their teeth immediately before getting their teeth professionally cleaned, then they should make sure they are doing so as they normally would. This means using the same amount of pressure and the same overall techniques that they do on a daily basis.
Eat a Lot of Protein
The vast majority of people probably do not give a lot of thought to what they eat before they go get their teeth cleaned. However, the type of food they consume in the couple of hours before an appointment can actually have a fairly big impact on how the appointment goes. For example, someone who eats a meal that is very high in carbohydrates is going to find that they begin to get hungry again fairly quickly. This is because these carbs do not provide satisfaction that lasts for a long time, which can be an issue if they know that their appointment is going to last a while.

That is why anyone who is going in for either a teeth cleaning or dental implants in Midland should plan ahead by altering what they eat before the appointment. The best choice is to go with a meal that is very high in protein. This is because protein has been shown to keep someone feeling full much longer than other types of food. Therefore, if someone eats a lot of protein beforehand, then there is very little chance that they will begin to get weak or cranky as a result of hunger during their appointment.
Take Some Ibuprofen Beforehand If Needed
While some people find teeth cleaning to be a relatively easy and straightforward process, it is a much bigger ordeal for some other individuals. In fact, there are quite a few people out there who actually find teeth cleaning to be a somewhat painful process.

There are a variety of reasons someone might experience pain during their teeth cleaning procedure. However, regardless of what their reasoning behind it is, they are likely going to be interested in finding ways to prevent the pain from happening in the first place.

In most cases, the medical professional will be able to find a way to alter their cleaning process to reduce the amount of pain felt by the patient. However, the patient can always choose to get ahead of the pain as well by simply taking a couple of ibuprofen beforehand. If someone knows that they tend to experience pain while getting their teeth cleaned, then they can simply take a couple of ibuprofen 15 or 20 minutes before their appointment starts so that the pills have enough time to begin to take effect before the cleaning process begins.
 

Routines are important. They are so important that most human beings live their lives according to routines. What we choose to include in our routines will dramatically affect our lives, so choosing proactive and healthy activities and habits to include in our routines is of the utmost importance.

One often neglected aspect of far too many people’s routines is their oral hygiene. Many people do not take proper care of their teeth and have not made taking care of their mouth health a priority or part of their routine. There are numerous reasons why an individual may neglect the health of their mouth and teeth, but one of the most common reasons is ignorance of what is required for proper oral care.

Many people may think that brushing their teeth is adequate to protect their mouths from harmful bacteria that cause tooth decay, but this is only one of several practices that a person must make a habit for them to experience proper oral hygiene. What treatments one’s mouth and teeth will require will differ from person to person, so how can one understand what they need to incorporate into their routines to keep their teeth looking their best and their breath smelling its freshest?

Because one’s health is always in flux, it is important to maintain healthy routines as sort of a benchmarking system for one’s wellbeing; by consistently maintaining one’s health, an individual will be more likely to detect irregularities in their health and be able to act more swiftly to remedy to problem than if they had detected it later. While many people may think that teeth brushing is the most important practice to make a habit when it comes to keeping healthy routines for one’s oral health, regularly visiting a dental is crucial for the upkeep of one’s oral hygiene. Making a routine of seeing the dentist in Midland—2-3 times a year—is a tremendously beneficial practice that can positively affect many aspects of a person’s mouth and teeth cleanliness habits. Here are some of the many positive effects of visiting a dentist regularly can have for an individual concerned about their oral health.

Get Advice

A routine is only as good as the action that is being repeated; what good is doing something over and over again if it isn’t making a positive difference in your life. How can a person know if their oral hygiene habits are making a difference for them if what they do each day to keep their mouth clean is adequate for their specific health requirements?

By visiting a family dentist in Midland part of your overall oral health routine, a person can make sure that what they are doing to keep their teeth clean is getting the job done by consulting a certified dental professional. A dentist can tell their patients what specific issues they may be facing, and suggest specific treatments to both remedy the problem and prevent future reoccurrences. They can also perform specialized procedures for those whose oral health warrants it, which can be tremendously important towards one’s overall health. By informing oneself about dental hygiene by speaking to a dental professional, a person can make sure that their every day oral health routine is properly structured to counteract the specific risks one’s mouth might be facing. Understanding the actual benefits of our habits makes them far easier to stick with, so get informed about your oral hygiene and make an appointment with a dentist today.

Prevent Malady

A dentist is more than just a sounding board for your questions and inquiries about oral hygiene. Their expertise allows them to detect things about the state of a person’s oral health that may be unknown to the individual. For example, many people do not know what the different stages of gum disease look like, and will not be able to identify its warning signs.

By consulting a dental professional every year, an individual can learn if they are experiencing the early stages of gum disease. Not only that, but dentists will be able to recommend treatments for getting the malady under control and suggestions for healthy lifestyle changes to prevent similar problems from occurring.

The knowledge one can learn from their dentist can be invaluable for their oral health and by extension their overall wellbeing. Many people neglect to floss their teeth, opting only to brush their teeth regularly. Most dentists will stress the importance of flossing, as tooth brushing alone is not adequate to rid one’s mouth of excess food particles, which are one of the primary causes of tooth decay. No one wants to have to get unnecessary dental implants in Midland because they did not consult a dentist about their teeth cleaning routine and remained ignorant of the warning signs of oncoming sickness. Don’t leave your health up to chance, ensure that visiting a dentist is part of your overall health regime, and take control of your wellbeing.

Emphasize Good Habits

In addition to gaining information that could benefit your oral hygiene and wellbeing overall, visiting the dentist three times a year or bi-annually is an effective way to cement taking care of one’s teeth as a priority of the same importance as any other. Because the ill effects of poor dental hygiene aren’t felt until much later into a person’s life, it can be difficult for the idea that keeping a clean mouth important for one’s health to be instilled in an individual. When a person visits the dentist regularly, they are likely to be reminded of their appointment in the interim multiple times; these small moments can remind a person of the importance of their oral health and help them rededicate themselves to good habits. Don’t take chances with your health, make visiting the dentist part of your health routine and enjoy the benefits later in life.
 

Understanding Gum Disease

When most people think of oral health, they think of the importance of maintaining strong healthy teeth and a happy smile. However, there is more to the picture than that, and if there is one area that is often forgotten when it comes to maintaining good oral health habits, it is the importance of the gums.

In fact, recent studies have found that up to a whopping 47 percent of Americans may suffer from some form of mild to moderate gum disease, which is formally referred to as periodontitis. This is a result of bacteria-riddled plaque building up along the gum line.

When this happens, the gums become prone to infection and a common condition called gingivitis that will cause the gums to become painful, swollen, or even start receding away from the tooth.

The damage caused by gum disease is not just limited to the gums either. In the more advanced stages of periodontitis, the gums will separate from the teeth to the extent that the root of the tooth is left vulnerable to invasion from harmful plaque and bacteria, and will often result in the need for a full tooth extraction or dental implants in Midland or elsewhere.

Some common symptoms of gum disease include:
 

• Loose or separating teeth
• Gums that bleed easily when brushed or flossed
• Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Inflamed, tender, or constantly irritated gums
• Gums that pull away at the point where they meet the teeth

If anybody notices that they are experiencing any of these common warning signs, they should book an appointment with their local family dentist in Midland. Gum disease can be notoriously difficult to detect in the early stages, and it is important to catch it as soon as possible to be able to reverse the effects or prevent further damage.

Helpful Tips to Prevent Gum Disease

When it comes to warding off gum disease, the best strategy is to take a preventative approach. Listed below is some helpful advice that people can apply to help ensure that their gums stay strong and healthy.

Floss Regularly

While many people understand the importance of brushing regularly, they still neglect to floss their teeth on a daily basis. In fact, flossing performs double duty in that it not only provides an extra line of defense against plaque buildup on the teeth, but it is also a particularly helpful way to protect the gums.

This is because dental floss is designed to get into that area between the gum line and teeth that brushing can’t reach and as such is one of the best ways to prevent gum disease from getting a stronghold.

As such, anybody who doesn’t have a habit of flossing at least once a day should seriously consider changing their ways. A local dentist in Midland will be happy to provide a demo as to proper flossing techniques for those who aren’t familiar with the practice.

Ditch the Cigarettes

There is a strong association between gum disease and smoking, and this is just one of the many reasons smokers might finally want to start thinking about finally calling it quits on the cigarettes for good.

In addition to increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, cancer, and a variety of other serious health problems, smoking also weakens the immune system, which in turn makes it difficult for the gums to fight off infection when they come into contact with bacteria in the mouth and on the teeth. Not only this, but smoking will also slow down the healing process if and when gingivitis or periodontitis is detected.

Brush the Teeth at Least Two Times a Day

Everybody should be brushing their teeth at minimum at least two times a day, both in the morning and before bed to prevent the onset of not only tooth decay, but also gum disease.

After all, brushing is one of the most effective ways to prevent and remove plaque and bacteria build-up that causes gum disease in the first place. As such, it is important to brush not only the teeth themselves, but also along the gum-line where gum disease starts. The tongue can also be another major zone that harbors bacteria, so don’t forget to give it a good scrub down as well.

However, brushing too aggressively can also wreak havoc on the gums, so it is usually best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush or whatever is recommended by a local family dentist in the Midland region. Those who would like to speed up the process might want to seriously consider investing in an electric toothbrush as well.

Use Mouthwash

While it is certainly no substitute for brushing and flossing, using over the counter therapeutic mouthwash on a daily basis can work in conjunction with other strong oral health habits to help slow tartar buildup along the gumline while safely washing away any loose bacteria in the mouth so it doesn’t have a chance to establish a foothold.

Visit a Professional Dentist in Midland Regularly

By far and away, the best way to prevent the harm caused by advanced gum disease is to detect it early, and in this respect, only a professional dentist in the Midland region has the tools and advanced knowledge needed to really make the call. So essentially, when it comes to preventing gum disease, regular check-ups are an absolute must.

In addition, the professional level tooth cleaning that comes standard with a check-up will remove plaque and tartar build-up in a much more thorough fashion than regular at-home cleaning and flossing can do, and this will help prevent gum disease from developing between regular visits.

The Takeaway

When it comes to comprehensive oral health, clean teeth and regular brushing are really only one part of the equation. The gums are an integral and often underestimated component of a healthy mouth, and this helps explain why gum disease is such a prevalent problem among the American population.

For more helpful tips as to how to ward off gum disease and keep those gums healthy for life, don’t hesitate to reach out to a local dentist in the Midland region to find out more.
 

Dentist visits have always been synonymous with having cavities. It’s always been the scare tactics that parents use to keep children from over-indulging in sweets. This could be the reason why dentist visits are often overlooked or avoided!

However, keeping up with your regular visits to the dentist in Midland is important — skipping out on these visits could save you some money right now, but it could lead to costly “fixes” in the future. If you’re still not convinced, here are some reasons why these visits should be a priority:

1. Plaque, Tartar, and Cavities
While brushing and flossing diligently can help you evade cavities, for the most part, there will still be areas that you miss (such as at the back of your mouth, where your wisdom teeth are). As a result, plaque will still build up in these hard-to-reach areas and can’t be removed easily and will eventually solidify to form tartar. Tartar can erode your teeth and create small holes that lead to cavities. When tartar forms, it is even more difficult to remove without visiting your family dentist in Midland.

Keeping up with your regular dental visits will prevent the build-up of tartar and lower the risk of cavities. By the time you feel at toothache, it’s already too late to take preventative measures and you’ll need to get it cleaned and filled.

Instead of paying for costly fillings, this situation can be avoided with regular dental cleaning appointments that can help you remove any plaque/tartar buildup.


2. Early Detection of Gum Disease
Plaque and tartar can cause a lot of damage to your oral health if left untreated. On top of cavities, a buildup of tartar can cause gingivitis, a gum infection that erodes the gum tissues and causes the gums to pull away from the teeth.

As the infection progresses, it becomes a disease with swelling, bleeding or soreness in the mouth. In severe cases, the bone holding your teeth will also breakdown and cause the teeth to become loose.

At this point, you would need a dental specialist to help fix this problem. However, there is no quick-fix, as you could need surgery, an extreme deep-cleanse, and medication. Recovery would take a lot of time and money. To avoid this altogether, you should visit your dentist regularly.


3. Detect Damage From Bad Habits
Many people have bad habits that can affect their oral health, regardless of whether they realize it or not. Some of these habits might even sound familiar to you because you do it too: biting nails, jaw-clenching, chewing ice, eating hard or sticky sweets, brushing your teeth with too much pressure, teeth-grinding, drinking coffee, red wine and pop, smoking, etc. The list of factors impacting your teeth can go on and on.

Going to regular checkups allows the dentist to check your teeth for any damages from these habits and fix any issues before they become worse. For example, if you grind your teeth at night, you could wear down your molars. If left undetected, you could crack your teeth over time. Depending on the severity, you may need to get dental implants from your Midland dentist in order to repair it. This is extremely costly and is something you could avoid just by going to your dental appointments.

If discovered early enough, you may be presented with solutions that can prevent further damage. For example, you could get a custom-fit mouthguard to use at night while you’re sleeping to alleviate the effects of teeth-grinding.


4. Checking For Unseen Problems
Dental-related problems don’t all occur on the surface — some problems can’t be seen until you visit a dentist. By going to your appointments regularly, you’ll get X-rayed to monitor your teeth and jaw bone health. The X-rays will reveal if there are any issues such as impacted teeth caused by wisdom teeth growing in the wrong orientation. You’ll also be able to find out if you have any jawbone-related issues such as swelling, cysts or tumors.

Discovering these problems early on is important so that you can get treated as soon as possible to minimize the damage.


5. Detection of Oral Cancer and Other Issues
Oral cancer is often not diagnosed early enough as people aren’t diligent with their dental checkups. It can be a serious disease that can become life-threatening if not discovered before it’s too late. Dentists are highly trained to recognize signs and symptoms of oral cancer, so they will be able to catch them during the early stages if you see him or her regularly.

Your dentist will also examine your jaw, neck, and lymph nodes for any unusual swelling, lumps or abnormalities so that you can be referred to the appropriate medical professional if needed.


6. Improve Your Smile
Sometimes you can feel self-conscious about smiling with teeth if you haven’t had a dental-cleaning session in a while. Keeping up with teeth cleaning not only maintains your oral health, but it also boosts your confidence — especially if you ask to do a whitening treatment as well. When your teeth are a few shades whiter, you’ll feel more than happy to smile wider!

For those who are concerned about their teeth alignment, this is also a good time to ask your dentist for options to straighten your smile.

The next time you plan to skip a dental examination, think about how much money you would be saving by going now to fix any potential issues rather than having to spend an excessive amount of money later on when the problem becomes serious.
 

Everyone strives for a healthier smile. A smile can be one of the most attractive features of a person who is confident in themselves. You feel more connected to someone who can communicate in this simple way. To help maintain a healthy smile, try completing these five tips as often as you can, and you too can have a smile that leaves a lasting impact.

1. Frequent Trips to the Dentist

Visiting the dentist frequently is one of the easiest ways to maintain a healthy smile. On top of getting your teeth cleaned by a professional, you’ll have a dentist give you their own tips on how you can prevent cavities, gingivitis, and plaque buildup. Adults tend to believe that you only have to visit the dentist every six months to maintain dental hygiene. For the most part, this isn’t enough and most adults will experience some type of teeth problem as they get older.

Most dental professionals recommend you visit the dentist in Midland every three months. This is due in part to the bacteria that was cleaned off during your last visit will begin to come back. It can seem like a waste of money, but if you’re set on having an incredibly healthy smile, this is something you will want to splurge on. Insurance often only pays for two trips a year, which is why a lot of people will only visit the dentist every six months. For a perfect smile, you’ll have to pay out of pocket for the rest.

2. Regular Brushing

Regular brushing is a crucial factor that will determine your oral hygiene. It’s important to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes at a time. If you’re comfortable enough, try brushing after every meal to better maintain your oral health. Soft-bristled toothbrushes are great for those who are avid about brushing their teeth. After a while, using a regular toothbrush can actually damage your enamel and gums. If you find your teeth are suffering, instead of brushing after every meal try using mouthwash. It will still protect your teeth and gums by killing any harmful bacteria. Rinse your mouth at least once a day for 30 to 60 seconds.

3. A Healthy Diet

Anything high in sugar or acidic food can have a severe effect on your teeth. You are more likely going to develop cavities or experience other problems if you constantly eat poorly. Eating foods that protect your enamel and control the population of bacteria in your mouth. These can include chicken, cheese, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and milk. If you’re looking for a more specific list, try speaking to your family dentist in Midland about creating a diet that will promote better oral health.

Although unhealthy food is oftentimes more convenient to consume, an excessive amount is too much for any regular person. If you do find your teeth are suffering because of your diet, limit the amount of soda and coffee you consume on a daily basis.

4. Flossing

For some people, flossing can seem like a chore, but it is an important aspect of maintaining a healthy smile. A person who regularly flosses has a lower chance of developing cavities. Flossing reaches all the small areas in between your teeth that food normally gets stuck in. This can cause your gums to swell, and obviously cavities to grow. Flossing also prevents bad breath while keeping your teeth looking at the top of their game.

If you choose to ignore flossing, your teeth will suffer. Bacteria have an easy time hiding in between the teeth, that can expand if constantly missed. Brushing can help get rid of some of these germs, but flossing is meant to work in unison with brushing. Despite your best efforts at brushing, flossing is the only way to get rid of all types of bacteria.

5. Avoid Smoking

Avoiding smoking is easier said than done for a lot of people. Not only is it bad for your internal organs, but smoking can be extremely bad for your oral hygiene. Smoking can result in bad breath, teeth discoloration, and an increased buildup of plaque and tartar. Your teeth and gums can become severely damaged because of this activity. Some people even need dental implants in Midland because their teeth become so bad.

It’s important to note that smoking tobacco directly isn’t the only way you can damage your teeth. The consumption of smokeless tobacco can also result in tooth decay. The nicotine and tar can also turn your teeth yellow, erode your gums, and lead to complete tooth loss. If you want to achieve a stunning smile, avoid smoking at all costs, or try quitting if you’ve already started.

A beautiful smile is a goal that most people wish to achieve. Everyone is conscious of the way they look, which is why something as small as a smile is known for being something everyone can be confident in. We already spend thousands of dollars each year on other cosmetic enhancement treatments for our hair and face, so why not spend a little extra on your teeth?

Regular trips to the dentist, brushing multiple times a day, switching to a healthier diet by limiting sweets, flossing daily, and avoiding smoking all will have significant effects on your oral health. Each of these is something that can be easily incorporated into your everyday life. It may seem like a lot of money, but you’ll want to spend a little extra to keep your teeth so beautiful. These five tips will have you on your way to maintaining a healthier smile.
 

Stepping into the dentist office in Midland can be frightening. It may have been several years since you have last kept an appointment, you may be walking in for extensive treatments, or you may not know what to expect with this particular professional. Before you spend all of your time worrying, here are six things you should know before visiting this health professional.

1. Dental Anxiety is Real

If you feel anxious, worried, and scared before each of your visits or it has kept you away from receiving a proper exam, you may be suffering from anxiety. This is a real condition that occurs in thousands of individuals. In fact, it is the reason many individuals stay away and do not receive the proper oral care that they need.

If you suffer from dental anxiety, there are several things you can do to feel calm and relaxed each time you sit in the exam chair. Here are a few of them.
 

• Find a health professional who offers oral sedation. This keeps you calm and relaxed without making you unconscious. This is generally safe and can be administered in several different ways such as a pill, IV, etc. Talk to your family dentist in Midland about the different options he or she provides to keep you calm.
• Focus on your breathing. When you become anxious and worried, you may hold in your breath. This decreases your oxygen levels, making you feel even more panicked and worried. If you begin to feel anxious, spend time focusing on each individual breath.
• Use headphones. Listen to music, a podcast, audiobook, etc., while you sit in the exam chair. This will not only keep your mind thinking about other things but it will help to drown out the sounds of the tools in your mouth.

2. There are Different Types

Not all health professionals are the same. You want to make sure that you are choosing the right individual for your specific needs. For example, if you have young children, you may consider a pediatric professional. This individual has specialized training and experience working with these smaller children. Additionally, if you desire treatments to improve the look of your smile such as teeth whitening, veneers, etc., you want a professional who specializes in cosmetic dentistry.

As you choose your oral health professional, do your research. The more qualified he or she is to help with your specific needs, the better results you will receive.

3. You Should Visit Every Six Months

When was the last time you had your teeth professionally cleaned? It is recommended that you receive a professional teeth cleaning, as well as a full exam, at least once every six months. This will help to identify any potential problems in your mouth before they become too severe. It will also remove plaque build-up before it becomes out of control and causes extensive tooth decay. However, keep in mind that some oral health professionals may not need to see you every six months while others may request to see you more often. Children should also see the dentist in Midland at least once every six months as well.

4. Emergency Dental Services are Often Available

Injuries and accidents can happen at any time. Some of these injuries may require immediate medical attention. Rather than wait to see a medical professional during normal business hours or to spend hundreds of dollars at the local emergency room, emergency dental services are often available. This is when an oral health professional will see you outside of normal business hours and provide immediate treatment. Some injuries that can require emergency services include:
 

• Missing or lost teeth
• Cracked or chipped teeth that are causing excruciating pain
• A toothache that is affecting your daily activities such as eating or sleeping
• An abscess
• Excessive swelling or bleeding that is overwhelmingly painful

5. You Can Have that Smile You Love

There is no reason you can’t have a smile that you love and are proud to show off. Whether you have stained and discolored teeth, are missing a tooth, etc., treatment options are available to improve your smile. For example, if you are missing a tooth or several teeth, you can receive dental implants from a professional in Midland. This will give you a complete smile that you desperately deserve. If you have excessive staining on your teeth, a professional teeth cleaning and teeth whitening treatment may be all you need to have a pearly white smile.

If you are interested in improving the look of your smile, schedule a consultation today. Some treatments and procedures can take several weeks and even months to complete and there is no reason you should delay. However, there are other treatments that can be completed in a few hours. Talk to a medical professional about the various options available and which one is best for your specific oral needs and desired outcome.

6. Preventative Care is Critical

While getting your teeth cleaned, taking x-rays, and receiving a full exam may not be a top priority, it is critical. Your oral health affects all aspects of your body and has a direct connection to your physical health. This means that when you let your oral health suffer, other aspects of your health will suffer as well. Preventative care is critical because it will help catch many problems before they become extensive and expensive to repair.

If you have not visited a health professional regarding your oral health recently, schedule an appointment today. You not only deserve a smile that you love but you need teeth that are healthy and well maintained. You will find that caring for this area of your body will help you feel and look great for years to come.
 

Trying to figure out what the cause is of pain in someone's mouth is something that is incredibly hard to do. That is why it is always a smart idea to visit a dentist in Midland as soon as someone experiences any sort of unusual discomfort in their mouth. If the pain is something that feels intense and sharp but quickly disappears, then this may be the result of a hairline tooth fracture.

If someone does develop a hairline tooth fracture, then they need to understand how this is going to impact their oral health and what they can do in order to fix the situation. Thankfully, all of that information and more can be found below in this helpful article.
What Causes Hairline Tooth Fractures?
There can be a variety of reasons why someone develops a hairline tooth fracture. Knowing the things that cause these to occur can be very beneficial because it can help individuals do everything in their power to avoid becoming a victim of these various situations.

The first possible cause of developing a hairline fracture in someone's tooth is if they have a tendency to clench their jaw or grind their teeth together. The intensive pressure of their teeth pushing up against each other when they do this can sometimes result in hairline fractures developing over time.

Another possible cause is from trying to eat something that is incredibly hard. This usually comes in the form of chewing on something like an ice cube or a hard sugary object like a jawbreaker. Using a lot of pressure to try and chew through one of these objects can often lead to damage being formed on the teeth, which can show up as a hairline fracture.

Something that is not entirely the person's fault is when they get involved in some kind of accident. For example, being a victim of a brutal hit in sports or accidentally slipping on a patch of ice and hitting their face off of something, are both things that are likely to cause a hairline tooth fracture to occur.

If the individual does not choose a great dentist in Midland, then their hairline tooth fracture could also be a result of something that they messed up on. For example, if an improperly sized filling is used, then it may be too large for the tooth that it is installed in and cause the structural integrity of the tooth to become significantly weakened and eventually crack.

As someone gets older, all of these potential causes and more all become much more likely to cause a hairline fracture to occur. This is due to the fact that teeth naturally become much weaker as someone gets older. That is why individuals who are over 50 years old are at a much greater risk of developing hairline tooth fractures.
Various Types of Hairline Tooth Fractures
In order to determine exactly how a hairline tooth fracture will affect a person's oral health and what steps need to be taken in order to solve the situation, the family dentist in Midland first needs to determine what type of hairline tooth fracture it is that they are dealing with. Despite what some people think, not all tooth fractures are the same. In fact, there are generally four different types of hairline tooth fractures that can occur.

The first type is something that is called a vertical crack. As the name suggests, this means that the fracture line runs north and south on the tooth in a vertical fashion. The severity of this fracture depends on how close the crack is to reaching the gum line. If it only extends about halfway up the tooth, then it is likely that a variety of steps can be taken to safely repair the tooth. However, if the crack clearly reaches the gum line, then this will result in the tooth having to likely be extracted and possibly be replaced with some dental implants in Midland.

Another type of hairline tooth fracture is something called craze lines. These types of fractures are by far the least serious out of all the possible types. In fact, craze lines do not even cause any sort of pain for the person and are often left alone without any treatments to fix them. Spotting craze lines will require looking closely at the enamel of the teeth and looking for a series of what appears to be extremely small cracks formed on the enamel.

A patient could also have a split tooth, which is where a crack is significant enough to totally separate the tooth into multiple segments. Once again, the steps that need to be taken in order to solve the situation all depend on the size of the damage. If the crack has reached a certain size, then being able to save the tooth becomes much more unlikely.

The last possible type of hairline tooth fracture that can occur is a fractured cusp. These tend to happen on any tooth where a dental filling has occurred. Luckily, fractured cusps very rarely ever reach the pulp of the tooth, meaning that the person should experience very little pain, if any at all. Once the dentist has gone ahead and determined the type of hairline tooth fracture that the patient has, then they can go ahead with recommending the best method of treatment.
How to Fix Hairline Tooth Fractures
As previously mentioned, there is no guaranteed best treatment since the recommended solution will depend on the extent and type of damage that the tooth has developed. If a crack is still relatively small, then the dentist might choose to use a bonding agent in order to fill the cracks with plastic resin and solidify the tooth once again.

Another option that is sometimes used is to place a porcelain or ceramic prosthetic over top of the tooth in order to keep the damage from being exposed. If the tooth is damaged to the point where it has begun to affect the tooth’s pulp, then a root canal might be necessary in order to improve the structural integrity of the tooth by getting rid of any damaged pulp. The last possible method is to simply extract a tooth when the damage has become so severe that even the nerves are drastically affected.
 

From toddlers to teens to adults, everybody needs to see a professional to get their teeth cleaned and go for checkups as these are key to maintaining good dental hygiene and a healthy smile. And when you’re searching for a dentist in Midland, why not find one who will take care of the whole family? There are many benefits to choosing a family dentist over a general dentist. But before you read about these benefits, it’s important to understand what the differences are between the two types of practitioners.

General Dentist vs. Family Dentist
General and family dentists both go through extensive training, which requires an undergraduate program in addition to dental school. They also provide similar services to patients, including checkups, treatments, and cleaning services. So what are the major differences between the two?

The main difference between the two practitioners is that a family dentist treats patients of all ages, while a general dentist is usually more specialized with a specific age group. Family dentists also take the time to properly educate patients on proper cleaning techniques and the importance of good dental hygiene. Because they treat patients of all age groups, they should also provide a wider range of services as different age groups will require different types of checkups or treatments.

Keep reading to learn about the advantages of seeing a family dentist, and find out how doing so will benefit the whole family.

Convenience
Convenience is one of the more obvious factors. When you see the same dentist as your kids, you can schedule checkup appointments back to back so you don’t have to drive up and down to drop off or attend appointments with each family member. By having everyone go together you can save a lot of driving time and make it a family trip, setting a designated day to visit the dentist. You should try to find a dentist in Midland who’s close to you so you don’t need to drive across town for your appointments.

Familiarity and Trust
When you deal with the same dentist that your kids see when you take them to get their teeth cleaned, you’ll be familiar with the dentist. This will make the experience more personal, more familiar, and comfortable as knowing that your children are in good hands will ease your anxiety and lighten up the experience. It will also make them feel a lot more comfortable when they know who they’re dealing with.

Knowledge of Your Family History
Some dental issues are genetic and run in the family. By knowing your medical history your dentist will know what to look out for and will watch out for these symptoms when doing check-ups for your kids. WIth a family dentist, you won’t need to go through the hassle of explaining your family’s medical history to different practitioners all the time.

They Will Educate You
When you’re seeing the same dentist to treat the whole family, they’ll feel committed to your family as they’re responsible for everyone’s professional oral health care. They will educate you and your kids about proper cleaning, types of toothbrushes and dental care essentials, and the best diet for healthy teeth. Everyone will know what foods they should avoid and how to brush their teeth well, and your kids will learn proper brushing and flossing tips and techniques.

Tips When Choosing a Family Dentist
When choosing a family dentist, it can be helpful to follow these tips:
 

• Training and Qualifications - Evaluate the training, qualifications, and experience of the family dentist in Midland. You can find a lot of this information on the website or even by stopping by the clinic. You want to make sure you feel comfortable, knowing that you’re in good hands. 
• Ages - Check to make sure they have experience dealing with patients of all ages, so they’re suitable for everyone in your family. You want them to be patient and understanding enough to make your kids feel safe and comfortable in the dental office.
• Atmosphere - Part of making your kids feel safe and comfortable at the dentist is finding a family-friendly environment with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where the dental experts are both friendly and professional. The better the overall experience, the less your kids will dread going to the dentist. It’s especially important for them to have a good experience while they’re still young, so they don’t grow up with a negative mindset towards the experience and become reluctant to go.
• Services - Whether you’re looking for regular cleaning services, wisdom teeth extraction, or dental implants in Midland, being able to get all of these services done in one place with a trusted professional would be a huge advantage. Find a family dentist who offers all of the dental services you’re looking for.
• Location - Make sure the location is accessible for you, and convenient enough that you’ll actually see the dentist regularly and won’t skip checkups.
• Expenses - Are you able to afford regular checkups to see this dentist and any cases that might come up - for the whole family?

Whether you’re going for regular dental checkups, cleaning, treatments, or dental implants in Midland, find a family dentist who will cover all of your family’s needs. Not only will it be more convenient taking everyone to one place, but both you and your kids will feel more comfortable and at ease in the hands of a trusted expert, your family will learn more about proper brushing techniques and develop good hygiene habits, and your dentist will know what to look for when working with the whole family. Finding a family dentist is an initiative that’s well worth taking.

It should be no surprise that a person's teeth have different needs at different points in their life. The things that a young child needs to be doing for their oral health is different than what their parents need to be doing for their oral health.

Many people choose to have their entire household to go to one family dentist in Midland, which is the perfect opportunity for parents to lead by example and show their children how to keep their teeth healthy. In an effort to help support this, here is a list of the key dental tips that people from each age group should be following.

Young Children

This is perhaps one of the most vital points in a person's life when it comes to oral health since this is when their opinions and routines are formed around things like oral health. If they are taught to take their oral health seriously at a young age, then they will take that belief with them even as they get older and be much more likely to have healthy teeth their entire life.

However, before the parents can just hand their child a toothbrush and send them off to the bathroom to do their oral health routine, they first need to be taught. The parents should start off their child’s oral health routine by using a soft bristle brush, so as not to accidentally do damage to their teeth or gums. They should also brush the teeth more slowly than usual so that the child may follow along, see what they are doing, and learn the proper technique.

As previously mentioned, routine is everything when it comes to oral health, which is why young children should be instructed to brush their teeth at the same time every morning and every night. This way it will help to ingrain the routine into their brain and make them more likely to follow it.

Something that many parents do not think to do is monitor how often their child is sucking their thumb. While this might seem like a harmless soothing technique, it has actually been shown to lead to dental issues later on in life. Therefore, parents should be encouraging their children to stop sucking their thumb as early as possible.

The last thing that young children need to ensure that they are doing is limiting their sugar intake. This can benefit them in many different ways, one of which is that it will significantly reduce the amount of tooth decay that occurs. Even though the teeth that they have in their mouths are going to fall out in a few years anyways, excessive consumption of sugar can lead to damage to the nerves and gums in the mouth as well, which are parts that do not get replaced with age.

Teenagers

As the kids get older and they finally have their full set of adult teeth developed, they need to start doing some additional things to ensure that their oral health stays on track. One of these things is to be aware of their reactions to extreme stress. The teen years are a very stressful point in a person's life, so if they tend to be someone who bites their nails are grinds their teeth when they get stressed out, it could end up causing dental damage.

Teenagers should also ensure that they are wearing mouthguards whenever playing intensive school sports such as football or hockey. These sports are well known for including significant physical altercations and risks of getting hit in the face with a ball. If this happens and the teenager is not wearing a mouthguard, then they may need to get dental implants done at the Midland dentist to replace the teeth that they have permanently lost.

A basic of oral health that all teenagers should continue to follow is having a good diet. This means eating foods that are not hard on the teeth and cutting way back on sugar, which as previously mentioned, causes tooth decay.

Adults

In many ways, this is the easy part of life when it comes to oral health. If the person has done everything that they are supposed to do in their younger years, then they should go into adulthood with very healthy teeth.

For most of life as an adult, oral health is just a matter of maintenance rather than improvement. This means that they need to maintain their daily routine of brushing twice and flossing. They should also make sure that they are visiting their dentist in Midland at least once every six months in order to get their regular cleanings and checkups done.

One thing that is unique to adults when it comes to oral health is the threat of dry mouth. This almost never occurs in children or teenagers, but as a person gets older they become more at risk to experience this. So they should be purchasing and using products that are designed to help prevent dry mouth from occurring.

Elderly Adults

As a person gets even further into their adult years, their body becomes susceptible to damage in all new ways, including their oral health. After several decades, even the smallest infractions when it comes to oral health can add up over time and lead to significant issues. That is why regular dental visits become so crucial during the elderly years of someone's life.

Whereas dentures used to be a necessary part of almost every elderly individuals life, this is no longer the case. With the proper oral care during the elderly years, many people can avoid ever having the need for dentures.

One of the things that elderly individuals should be doing is increasing the amount of fluoride in the toothpaste that they use, which will help to fight off gum disease. The older than individual gets, the more at risk they become for gum disease, which is why they should be doing everything that they can to prevent it. They should also consider using an antibacterial mouthwash everyday. This will help to prevent plaque from building up within the mouth, which is a common reason for many oral health problems.
 

Dealing with pain in the mouth can be challenging. It can have an impact on how a person talks and eats, as well as how they feel throughout the day. It may seem like the best option is to have the tooth removed by a dentist in Midland, but that may not always be the best choice.

No one wants to be in pain. When it comes to a tooth that is causing problems, getting it taken care of as soon as possible is usually foremost on a person’s mind. However, when it comes to whether or not a tooth should be saved or pulled by a family dentist in Midland, there are some things that need to be considered.

When to Save a Tooth

There are benefits to trying to save a tooth, even though it may not seem like it while a person is in pain. Below are some of the reasons a dentist may decide to save a person’s tooth rather than pull it.

Natural teeth are strong. Despite the advances that have been made in tooth technology, natural teeth are still stronger than artificial ones. They are also easier to care for. Thus, if there is any damage and the tooth can be saved, it’s better for it to remain in the mouth.

Losing teeth causes gaps to form. When a tooth is pulled, it leaves an open space in a person’s mouth, which the other teeth will then try to fill in. This can lead to a lot of issues, including crooked teeth, a misaligned jaw, and issues with biting and chewing. It could also lead to more pain, and no one wants to deal with that.

In addition to there being gaps in between teeth, removing teeth also causes gaps to form in the jaw bone. This is because the roots are also removed. If there are gaps in the jaw, this could cause the bone around the area to collapse, and that could also lead to a host of issues, including issues with eating and a person’s appearance.

Depending on where the tooth has been pulled, it may be visible to others, which may make the person self-conscious about their smile. This may mean that they are no longer willing to smile to show happiness. This, coupled with the other complications that might arise, make it so that pulling a tooth isn’t always the best option.

It may seem like pulling a tooth will eradicate the pain a person feels, and it might. However, it also leads to an increased risk of developing dry socket. If this happens, that can be incredibly painful and make the person more miserable than what they experience with the toothache.

In addition, after a tooth extraction, many patients will have to be on painkillers (either prescription or over the counter), as well as an antibiotic to reduce the chances of infection. Both of these can be incredibly expensive. When a tooth is saved, it reduces the chances of dry socket and extensive pain.

How Is a Tooth Saved?

There can be a variety of different things that happen to a person’s tooth that will lead to the decision of whether it should be saved or pulled. These can include cavities, infection, or other medical issues. However, it’s helpful for a person to retain their natural teeth for as long as possible. The benefits outweigh the downsides.

More often than not, to save a tooth, a patient will have to have a root canal. This procedure cleans and disinfects the inside of a person’s tooth and the infected pulp is removed. After this has been cleaned out, the tooth’s interior is filled with a substance that will keep it strong. Then, a crown is usually placed over the top, allowing it to function like the other teeth in the mouth.

While the process sounds lengthy and painful, the recovery time is less than if the tooth had been removed. The chances of infection are also reduced, and there are no gaps in the mouth that can cause issues down the road.

When to Pull a Tooth

Of course, there are times when a tooth will need to be pulled for the wellbeing of the patient. This often occurs if the tooth has been cracked below the gumline or in several places. If the tooth can’t be restored because it is too weak, then it may be better to have it removed. In some cases, after it has been extracted, a person will get dental implants in Midland.

These can help reduce the chances of teeth shifting around the mouth or bone loss in the jaw, but they often aren’t as strong as regular teeth. In addition, having this procedure done may result in a person making more than one trip to the office so that all the pieces can be put into place.

Other issues that might occur that require a tooth to be extracted include cavities that go deep into the tooth or have weakened it beyond repair. If there is extensive gum disease that has had an impact on a person’s jaw bone density, this might also be a reason for a tooth to be extracted.

These issues can be caused by many different things, including injury, genetics, disease, or poor hygiene habits. While having implants put in can be incredibly beneficial, they do have their downsides. However, if a person doesn’t have any other option, this can be a great way to increase their confidence and allow them to eat and talk without any pain.

No one wants to have to worry or think about whether they need to have their teeth replaced or fixed, but sometimes it happens. The procedure that a person will have to endure will depend on the damage that has occurred. More often than not, the doctor will try to save the tooth, and they will decide which route they want to take. When saving the tooth is not possible, it will need to be removed.
 

Your smile is one of the most important features on your face. It attracts other people to you, shows that you are happy, and gives you confidence. When you are embarrassed or self-conscious regarding the beautiful feature, your self-worth, confidence, and even happiness can suffer. However, you don’t have to live with a smile that you don’t like. When you visit a dentist in Midland, there are many treatment options available to help improve your smile and create a look that you are proud to showcase each day.

Let’s talk about five treatment options you should consider if you wish to improve your smile.

1. Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is extremely popular for those who are looking for a more pearly white smile. Plus, this is one of the less invasive and simple procedures that will change the look of your smile. There are many options when it comes to whitening your teeth. Some of these are as simple as purchasing teeth-whitening kits from your local drug store. Unfortunately, when you choose these options, they are less effective and the results do not last long when compared to other treatment procedures.

If you truly want a white, beautiful smile, you should consider in-office teeth whitening treatments. This procedure is done in an office and under the supervision of a professional. This option is not only more effective but the results last for much longer periods of time and are safer. You may also receive trays and whitening gel from professionals which can also prove effective.

Other teeth whitening treatments you may consider include specialized toothpaste and rinses.

2. Dental Implants

Many individuals become self-conscious of their smile when they are missing teeth. Whether it is just one tooth that is missing or a handful, you may want that straight, perfect smile that you see in the media. One way to achieve this is to receive dental implants in Midland. During this procedure, a fake tooth is attached to a type of screw. The screw is inserted into the jawbone and over time, the screw fuses with the bone, creating a strong foundation. The fake tooth is designed to look similar to the natural teeth, helping create a full, beautiful set of teeth.

There are many pros and cons to this type of procedure. It is a very common treatment option and when done correctly, it creates an exquisite, natural-looking smile. However, it is not a one-time procedure. There are many steps required and each needs ample healing time in between. It can take several months to complete the procedure and you will experience some pain and discomfort during the healing process.

3. Teeth Straightening

When you have straight teeth, you will feel confident in your smile. While you can choose to have large orthodontic procedures done such as braces or built-in retainers, these may not always be necessary. And for many individuals, particularly adults, this can make you feel even more self-conscious and worried about your smile. One option is to consider clear teeth straightening aligners. These are invisible retainers that you wear throughout the day. They are clear and most individuals will not even know you are wearing them.

Furthermore, these devices are removable. This means that if you have a big presentation at work, a client lunch, or another large event, you can take them out and you don’t have to worry about them. You also don’t have to worry about food and other substances getting stuck in between any wires or brackets.

If you are considering teeth straightening aligners, you will want to talk to your dentist in Midland. He can help you determine if this is the best treatment option for you and begin the process to order and care for this teeth-straightening device.

4. Veneers

Another popular option to improve your smile is veneers. These are essentially thin coverings that are placed on the front of the tooth to improve their appearance. Veneers look like natural teeth and help hide many flaws in the mouth such as a crooked bite, yellow teeth, chipped teeth, and even large gaps.

Similar to other treatment options, there are many pros and cons to this procedure. Before you consider it, you will want to talk to a professional about the advantages and ensure it is the right option for you. A few drawbacks to be aware of include the strength of veneers. These are more prone to breaking and cracking than other options. They can also become loose and you may need replacements. Furthermore, once you choose to receive veneers, they cannot be removed from your teeth. This is because the specialist will scrape off the enamel on your teeth prior to placing them on.

However, if you have strong oral hygiene habits and relatively healthy teeth, this may be a good option. It is also one of the faster procedures and when done correctly, it will produce gorgeous, beautiful smiles.

5. Cosmetic Bonding

Cosmetic bonding is another option to improve the look of your smile. This is when special material is bonded onto the teeth. The material is designed to improve various flaws in the mouth. For example, if you have yellow teeth, abnormally-shaped tooth, short teeth, etc., cosmetic bonding may be the solution you need to fix the look of your teeth. One benefit to this option is the procedure is fast and less intensive than others like veneers and implants. However, it is not as strong and it is more ideal for smaller repairs and fixes than major cosmetic issues.

No matter if you are looking for just a simple checkup or you want to discuss various treatment options to improve the look of your smile, you want to contact a family dentist in Midland for all of your oral health needs.

A person needs to get their teeth checked on a regular basis. It’s the best way to ensure that any issues are found before they become problems. While most people know this, they don’t often make the appointments with a family dentist in Midland like they should. There can be a variety of reasons for this, including that they are nervous about going.

This is something that occurs with a lot of people. It can be incredibly nerve wracking going to any doctor. If a person doesn’t know what they are going to be told, and there’s a chance it could be bad news, then it’s best to avoid the situation at all costs. Of course, this is a terrible way to look at it.

Having a healthy mouth is tied into the rest of the health in a person’s body. Not getting regular cleanings can lead to an increased risk of gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and the potential of needing dental implants in Midland. This can absolutely be a stressful situation. However, if a person goes in for regular cleanings, they may be able to reduce this risk.

Since stress and nervousness are such major issues when going to see a dentist in Midland, there are some ways to reduce these feelings. Being able to conquer fears and do what’s best for a person’s health is the best decision they can make for themselves. Read on for some tips on how a person can stay calm when getting their mouth examined.

Consider Sedation

One of the newest breakthroughs in this field is the use of sedation for some patients. This has made it so they can sit comfortably in the chair and be relaxed while the doctor or the hygienist gets to work. There are a variety of different ways a person can be sedated, including having gas pumped into their system through a mask that sits over the nose or by taking a pill.

Which method will be used will depend on how nervous a person is. In most cases, these choices are incredibly mild and don’t have a lot of side effects—they can (and have!) been used for kids. A person may feel a little groggy or tired afterward, so they may consider having someone drive them, but once the effects wear off, they’ll be back to normal.

Sedation can be a great way for a person to be relaxed and get into the office more often to have their teeth taken care of. Without proper and regular care, in addition to an increased risk of gum disease, there’s also a chance of developing respiratory issues, heart disease, and an increased risk of stroke. It can also have an impact on diabetes. Getting in for regular teeth cleaning is incredibly important for overall health.

Deep Breathing Techniques

For people who aren’t too keen on having to take pills or gas to help them relax, there are natural ways that they can feel better while they get their teeth examined. This can include deep breathing techniques. If a person focuses on their breathing, they’ll be able to take the focus off what’s happening in their mouth and stay calm.

There are a variety of ways to learn this technique, including watching videos online or talking to a professional who has experience with nervousness and anxiety. This can be a great way for a person to relax and not have to worry about any side effects from taking medication.

Visualization Techniques

In addition to deep breathing, a person might also consider learning how to do some visualization techniques. This often includes a person going to a happy place in their mind and focusing on what is happening there, instead of what is going on in the moment. This can be a great way to divert the focus from the stressful situation and allow them to feel calm and relaxed by going somewhere soothing in their mind.

Again, this is a technique that can be learned either by watching videos, reading a book, or talking to a professional. If a person isn’t quite sure how to begin the technique or the best way to stay focused, getting advice from a professional might be the best way to learn how to use visualization to remain calm.

Ask Questions

One of the reasons that people get so nervous about new situations is because they don’t know what to expect. As a result, their imagination can run wild, which can make anything seem much worse that it really is. Having information isn’t a bad thing, so asking questions and getting answers can be a great way to alleviate stress and worry about getting their teeth cleaned.

Talking to friends and/or family or looking things up online may not be the best idea, as everyone perceives their experience differently. It’s important to talk to the doctor and/or someone in the office, such as the hygienist, to get the correct information. This can help alleviate a lot of unnecessary fear and worry.

Remember that Pain is Temporary

Another reason a lot of people don’t enjoy having their teeth worked on is because it can be painful. This isn’t always the case, but if they have to have major work done or if they’ve neglected their teeth for a while, it can certainly be true. Taking medication to help alleviate the pain can be helpful. Reminding oneself that pain is only temporary can also be incredibly helpful. It may be uncomfortable now, but it won’t last forever.

There are many reasons why people fear getting their teeth worked on, and it may deter them from making an appointment. However, for the sake of their overall health, it’s important that people get in for regular checkups and cleanings so that they don’t have a major issue later down the road.

There are numerous things a person can consider doing so that they feel comfortable getting their teeth examined. Sedation is the latest advancement in the field, and it can be gentle enough to be used on kids.