The Truth About Flossing

benefits of flossing

At one point in all our lives, we have been told to floss during a dental appointment by a dentist or a dental hygienist. Ever wondered why is there so much fuss about this oral hygiene practice? If yes, then read ahead as we discuss the truth about flossing.

If I Brush My Teeth Do I Have To Floss?

Toothbrushing alone cannot effectively clean between the tight contact spaces of teeth. This is where flossing comes to the rescue and can help you clean these hard-to-reach surfaces.

Benefits Of Flossing

Flossing helps to remove plaque and food debris that collects between your teeth.

If not removed, the bacteria in dental plaque can buildup on your teeth causing cavities and must be removed by a dental professional. If plaque is not removed, tartar (called calculus) will buildup and can lead to swollen and bleeding gums also known as a condition called gingivitis.

The Correct Way To Floss

Two methods can be employed for proper flossing.

  • Spool method (finger wrap method)

You start by cutting off a piece of floss about 18-20 inches long. Hold this piece of dental floss by the ends and wrap most of it around the middle finger of both hands. Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers, gently sliding it up and down between your teeth. Using your index finger as a guide, insert this floss between two teeth and go in an up and down motion. Curve the floss in a “C-shape” around the base of each tooth to gently clean beneath the gumline. Use clean sections of floss as you move to other teeth in the mouth. You may feel a slight resistance while inserting the floss but never snap or force floss, as you could damage your gums. To remove floss, gently use the same sliding motion to bring it back up and away from the teeth. Please start with the back teeth of either side and make your way to the front and finish it on the opposite side’s last teeth. Make sure you cover all your teeth in the upper and lower jaw

  • Loop method (Circle method)

Cut off around 18 inches of floss and tie the two loose ends firmly to form a circle. Follow this by placing all your fingers inside the loop except the thumb, making it tight. Use your index finger to guide the floss when working on lower teeth and the thumb on the upper teeth. Insert the floss between your teeth, push it down, reaching below the gum line, and come up while making a c-shape on either side of the tooth. Make sure you cover all the tooth surfaces on the upper and lower teeth.

Alternatives To Flossing

Flossing is a crucial and irreplaceable part of a dental routine. However, if traditional flossing methods are not your thing, there are a variety of techniques and products to ensure the health of your smile.

  • Water flosser removes the plaque and debris with the help of a high-pressure water stream.
  • Interdental brushes or floss picks can be inserted between the two teeth to ensure proper plaque removal.
  • Dental tape has a wide and flat surface and can prove to be an excellent option for people with gaps between teeth.

Please reach out to us if you have any more questions or want to schedule an appointment. Our team of excellent dental professionals is here to assist you in your journey to excellent oral health from all 7 locations in the Madison area.

 

Start Your Year with a Whiter & Brighter Smile

teeth whitening treatments madison wi

Give yourself the gift of a spectacularly bright smile.

Smiling boosts your self-confidence and has significant positive health impacts. A simple smile can lower your stress level, makes you more approachable, and can improve your social, personal, and professional life.

However, some of us may have stained or dulled down teeth, restricting us from smiling. Fortunately, many tooth whitening solutions can ensure your inner happiness is reflected outside by your best smile.

Teeth whitening can be done at home or in a dental office via a board-certified dentist. Read ahead as we discuss some top tooth whitening solutions for your best smile.

 

AT HOME TEETH WHITENING SOLUTIONS

Whitening toothpaste

  • Colgate Optic White Advanced gently scrubs away stains and provides a bleaching effect due to its hydrogen peroxide content. In addition, it is safe for the enamel and ensures good results when used appropriately.
  • Crest Pro-health is another great gentle tooth whitening toothpaste, especially if you have sensitive teeth.

Whitening Strips

Whitening strips can be acquired from the drug store and your dentist.

There are a variety of whitening strip kits that can be purchased over the counter from the drug store. These strips are directly applied to your teeth have a low concentration of whitening agents. Make sure to follow all instructions on how often to use the trays as overuse can cause sensitivity and harm your tooth enamel. It is important to remember that at-home teeth whitening can take a long time (months) to show any substantial results.

One thing you may not be aware of is that many dental clinics have whitening strip kits that can be purchased in the office at used at home. A benefit to buying these from your dentist is that they have a higher concentration of whitening agents that over-the-counter products. These are only sold by dental professionals and offer faster results and longer lasting results in comparison to store bought strips.

 

IN-OFFICE TOOTH WHITENING

The best and longest lasting whitening treatments are available from a dentist who can evaluate your teeth and create a customized treatment plan to bring out your best smile. Dental professionals have the safest teeth whitening solutions that will provide you with faster and brighter results.

One in-office tooth whitening solution is hydrogen peroxide in a gel base.

The gel is applied onto the teeth surface, where it penetrates the tooth structure to dissolve discolorations and simultaneously has a bleaching effect. You may need more than one visit to achieve the desired results.

Another in-office tooth whitening solution is customized whitening trays.

This option requires two simple dental visits and allows you to complete your treatment from home. For the first appointment your dentist will take an impression of your teeth. Then, they will create whitening trays using the mold of your teeth. At your second appointment you will try on the trays to ensure they fit. After that, you will be able to take your whitening trays home along with a professional bleaching gel. Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how often and how long they should be used to achieve your desired results.

Combining at-home teeth whitening solutions with professional treatments by a dentist can generate the best teeth whitening results.

So, start your 2022 with a whiter and brighter smile with our top tooth whitening solutions. If you have any more questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please visit this link. Our team of excellent dental professionals will be there to assist you in your journey to a dazzling smile.

 

November is National TMJ Awareness Month

tmj causes and treatment

What is TMJ?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge that connects your jaw to the side of your skull. It allows for your jaw to move up and down and side to side, so you can talk, chew, and yawn. Any problem that prevents the muscles, bones, and joints from working together can result in Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD).

TMD is characterized by pain and dysfunction of the TMJ and/or the muscles surrounding it.

Common Symptoms associated with TMD

If you have any of these symptoms you may have TMD:

  • Pain in the TMJ or jaw muscles
  • Jaws that “lock” in the open or closed position
  • Headaches, specifically in the temples
  • Tension in a neck and/ or face
  • Limited jaw movement
  • Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint
  • Difficulty chewing or pain while speaking
  • Tinnitus, or ringing in your ears
  • A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together
  • Swelling on the side of your face
  • Tooth pain

How is TMD diagnosed?

In most cases, TMD is diagnosed during a dental checkup. Your dentist starts by checking the range of motion of your jaw, determines areas of discomfort. Depending on your symptoms and discomfort level your dentist may need you to have imaging tests to provide you with a diagnosis. These can include:

  • X-rays of your jaws, temporomandibular joints, and teeth to determine the cause of the problem.
  • CT scan of the jaw to show the bony detail of the joint.
  • MRI to see if there are problems with the structure of the jaw or the position of the TMJ disc as the jaw moves.

After reviewing your symptoms, you may be referred to a specialist or oral maxillofacial surgeon. They are specialists in treating TMJ dysfunction and can provide further care and treatment.

What causes TMD?

Possible causes may include:

  • Arthritis
  • Orthopedic problems including inflammation, sore muscles, strained tendons and ligaments, and disk problems
  • Dislocation, injury, tooth or jaw alignment
  • Stress and grinding or clenching of the teeth
  • Poor diet
  • Lack of sleep
  • Structural jaw problems present at birth
  • Genes, age and gender (women appear to be more prone to it)

Treatment Options

It is possible for TMDs to resolve on their own but sometimes they require a therapeutic approach:

  • Eating soft foods
  • Limiting extreme jaw movements like yawning and prolonged, repetitive chewing and biting (gum, ice-chips)
  • Wearing a splint or night guard
  • Modifying pain with heat packs
  • Taking pain medication: (anti-inflammatories, analgesics, muscle relaxants, anti-anxiety drugs)
  • Botulinum Toxin (Botox®) injections to reduce muscle mass and inflammation
  • Radio wave therapy
  • Corrective dental treatment to improve your bite and align your teeth

Rarely, a surgical intervention is required and would be determined based on the TMJ symptoms and diagnosis. Three types of surgery include:

  • Arthrocentesis – outpatient procedure which removes fluid and debris from the joint.
  • Arthroscopy – performed under full anesthesia and involves removing inflamed tissue or realigning the disc.
  • In very severe cases where movement of the jaw is extremely restricted, and symptoms are long-lasting, the joint may need to be replaced during an open-joint surgery.

Treatment Options

The outlook for a TMJ disorder depends on the severity and type of the problem. It is possible for TMD to be successfully treated with at-home remedies, but if the condition is caused by a chronic disease such as arthritis, lifestyle changes just may not be enough and the discomfort may increase with time.

If you are suffering from jaw pain and discomfort, it is best to contact your dentist and get an evaluation so they can diagnose and determine what treatments might be right for you. Request an appointment today online or call 608.284.5400

Taking Advantage of Your Dental Insurance Benefits Before They Expire

dental health benefits

Did you know that most dental insurance plans have a benefit deadline of December 31st?

There are many dental insurance plans available with different premium amounts and coverages, but most of them have one thing in common – they expire.

What does it really mean? This means that unused funds you have remaining will expire. Most plans do not allow residual funds to roll over into the following year.

What does my dental insurance cover?

Now is the time to review your plan and contact your dental insurance provider to determine if you have benefits available. Many insurance plans cover 100% for preventative care such as biannual checkups, X-rays and professional cleanings. Fillings and simple extractions may have about 70%-80% coverage and, major restorative care such as bridges, root canals and dentures is generally covered at 50%. Dental insurance plans vary and in order to understand your benefits and coverage, we recommend that you contact your dental insurance provider to see what your plan covers.

How to maximize your dental plan?

In order to maximize your benefits make sure to schedule routine cleanings and check-ups. Also, if you have any pain or discomfort schedule your appointment right away, don’t wait for the issue to “resolve itself”. If a problem is caught early on, you may be able to prevent having to spend money on a costly procedure and multiple visits.

The most important part to remember is to schedule your appointments well in advance. This past year has been challenging for many dental offices because of a large increase in patients who are trying to catch up on their routine cleanings. This means that appointment availability might be limited. Do not wait till mid-December to make the call – contact your dentist as soon as you can to avoid the loss of your remaining benefit allowance.

At Dental Health Associates of Madison, we believe seeing the dentist should a normal part of your health routine. Whether you need to come in for a cleaning, exam, or have treatment procedures completed, we will work with you to maximize your unused benefits. Your health is important to us and we want to make sure you get the care you deserve. Call today to get started! 608.284.5400.

 

What Type of Braces Are Right For My Family?

types of braces

We are on a mission to create a healthy smile for your child and today we have more options than ever for making that happen. Traditional metal braces are a great fit for many patients, but new alternatives like ceramic braces and Invisalign® are giving traditional metal braces some serious competition. For many patients, the choice for straight teeth comes down to cost, appearance, and the level of maintenance needed to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.

How Do Braces Work?

Orthodontic treatment, whether it is done with braces or Invisalign® (or other clear aligners), is accomplished by gently putting pressure on the teeth to move them into a new position. In the case of traditional braces, brackets are bonded to the tooth surface and a wire is then placed that puts pressure on the teeth. That wire is kept in place by small, often colorful ties. Patients need to see their orthodontist every six to eight weeks to have the wire adjusted and new ties placed.

When Should I Start Considering Braces?

Most people associate braces with the “tween” years of 12-16. But it’s important to evaluate potential needs as early as 7 years old when your child still has plenty of baby teeth. They may look perfectly straight to you, but there could be developmental or growth problems lurking behind that adorable smile. Taking an early peek at the jaw structure and mouth allows your orthodontist to identify problems right away and come up with an early treatment plan. With early evaluation and continued monitoring, your orthodontist can let you know what to expect as your child grows and his/her adult teeth begin to erupt.

If an early evaluation does reveal some potential problems, then those issues can be addressed as your child grows. Handling some orthodontic concerns while your child is still experiencing rapid growth can prevent more severe problems later in life. In some cases, early treatment will help to avoid surgery and prevent periodontal issues in the future.

An early visit to your orthodontist can improve and safeguard your child’s oral health in a variety of ways, including:

  • Eliminate or reduce the need for corrective surgery as a teen or adult
  • Shorten the length of any treatment needed as a teen or adult
  • Correct oral habits that may be impacting teeth and/or jaw
  • Optimize facial appearance later in life
  • Assist permanent, adult teeth into a better position
  • Improve speech

Metal Braces

The good news is that even traditional braces are a far cry from the old-school appliances many parents grew up with. Metal braces are far less intrusive and noticeable than they used to be. The size of individual braces, also known as brackets, has significantly decreased over time. The materials used for the wire has also changed; this results in lighter forces on the teeth making the orthodontic process more comfortable for patients. The ties that hold the wire to the brackets come in a variety of colors and for many patients choosing these colors at each visit is one of the most exciting parts of having metal braces.

The pros: Metal braces can withstand the most pressure of any orthodontic appliance. They are less likely to break than ceramic brackets; this is a definite advantage for patients who have a hard time staying away from the hard and sticky foods that should be avoided during orthodontic treatment. Metal braces may be the best option for patients who need more complex orthodontic treatment. They are also great for patients that want fun colors to match holidays, sports teams, or a special outfit!

The cons: Metal braces are the most visible treatment option which may not be desirable for patients who are self-conscious about their appearance. Metal brackets can also cause irritation of the cheeks and gums when the braces are first placed.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces and use the same wire and bracket system, however ceramic braces are less noticeable because the brackets are made of clear or tooth-colored ceramic material. Like metal braces, ceramic braces also use ties to hold the wire in place, but these ties are generally clear or white to blend in with the teeth.

The pros: Ceramic braces are less visible than metal but are still strong and durable. Some patients think they are more comfortable than metal braces. For patients who might not be good candidates for clear aligners and who don’t want metal brackets, ceramic braces are a great alternative.

The cons: Ceramic braces can stain if certain foods or drinks are frequently consumed or if the braces and teeth are not properly cleaned. They are slightly less durable than metal braces so it is very important that patients are careful with what they eat.

Clear Aligners: An Alternative To Braces

Removable clear aligners like Invisalign® are more popular than ever and offer patients a more flexible and less noticeable orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist creates a customized plan for gradually straightening your teeth using a set of clear aligner trays to shift the teeth into the desired position. Aligners need to be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day to be effective, and many patients appreciate the chance to remove their appliances while eating and cleaning their teeth. Every one to two weeks, patients switch to a new aligner tray throughout the process.

A note of caution – there has been an influx of “At Home” options for clear aligners. These are typically not under supervision of an orthodontist and are not ideal for a complete orthodontic plan. We recommend working directly with an orthodontist for a safe and effective solution.

The pros: Invisalign® is becoming an increasingly popular choice for both teens and adults. Aligners are clear and much less visible than braces so they can be a great choice for patients who might be self-conscious about metal braces. One of the main benefits of aligners is that they are removable. This makes things like flossing, brushing, and eating much easier. Additionally, the food restrictions that many patients face with traditional braces (i.e. overly hard or chewy food), do not apply when using aligners. Many patients also report that the plastic used for removable aligners is less irritating to the cheeks than braces. Another advantage of clear aligners is that orthodontic office visits are less frequent with Invisalign® which saves patients time.

The cons: Aligners only work when they are worn and thus may not be the best option for patients who are not ready to take responsibility for their treatment. Aligners must be taken out to eat and immediately placed back in the mouth after eating. Patients who frequently lose things or are forgetful may want to consider an alternative form of orthodontic treatment.

Choosing The Right Braces: Your Orthodontist Can Help

There are a variety of great orthodontic treatment options. Your orthodontist is an important partner in helping you make the best decisions based on all of the considerations. With years of expertise and a caring approach, Dental Health Associates will help you choose the best type of orthodontic treatment for you or your child.

Request a Free Orthodontics Consultation

 

May is National Save Your Tooth Month

xray dentist

May is Save Your Tooth Month and, this year, we are highlighting the role our endodontists play in helping patients SAVE their natural teeth.

Keeping Natural Teeth

Natural teeth allow you bite and chew, but they also retain bone structure in the jaw and face. Oftentimes, tooth decay is a leading cause of lost teeth.

It all begins with oral bacteria growing rapidly in deposits of dental plaque, and in turn producing high levels of acid in the mouth. Excessive acidity can erode the minerals in tooth enamel to create holes or “cavities” that allow bacteria to enter a tooth and infect it.

If at all possible, we need to try to stop tooth decay early by disinfecting and filling these cavities. If not, decay can spread through the teeth to the underlying nerve (pulp) tissue, following passageways known as root canals. If this happens, the chances for saving the tooth are extremely low.

But if the decay does reach the tooth’s innermost layer—the pulp—filling the cavities won’t be enough. Decay this advanced requires a procedure known as root canal.

How a Root Canal Can Save Your Tooth

If you winced a little at seeing “root canal”, it’s understandable. Root canals have gained an unfair reputation as an unpleasant experience. In reality, a root canal performed by a skilled dentist or endodontist (a specialist in root canals) isn’t painful. In fact, if you come in with a painful tooth, you’re very likely to leave after the procedure with a significant pain reduction.

Root canal procedures can vary depending on the type of tooth and the intricacy of its root canal network. Essentially, though, we remove the diseased pulp tissue, and then clean and fill the empty pulp chamber and root canals. This stops the infection and, along with sealing and crowning the tooth, helps prevent a future re-infection.

Root Canal Procedure

Root Canal Procedure Steps

Do I need a Root Canal?

How do you know if you need a root canal? You may find out from us if we discover advanced decay during a checkup or cleaning appointment. But you may encounter signs yourself like a throbbing toothache, pain during and after eating and drinking, or gum tenderness around a tooth. These are all possible indications of tooth decay.

If you experience any of these signs, you should see us as soon as possible for an examination. If the pain subsides, keep your appointment anyway—this could simply mean the nerves in the pulp have died and are no longer transmitting pain signals. The infection, though, could still be there and continuing its rampage beyond the tooth and into the surrounding bone tissue.

Root canal therapy may not seem glamorous, but it’s an excellent option for a diseased tooth that would otherwise have to be removed. A root canal could get rid of your pain and give your troubled tooth a new lease on life!

If you have a natural tooth compromised by infection or injury, you may believe that extraction is your only solution. However, many compromised teeth can be saved by endodontic treatments such as root canals or other more complex procedures.

Celebrating Dr. Nicholas Anders

We are fortunate to have our own endodontist on staff. Dr. Nicholas Anders is one of the only board certified endodontists in the Madison area. His commitment to patient comfort and high quality care sets him apart. He was named a Top Dentist in Madison Magazine and continues to advocate for patients to save their teeth. He practices out of our South Clinic location in Fitchburg.

Oral Health is Overall Health

Dental Health and Overall Health

The health of your mouth, teeth and gums plays a significant role in the state of your overall well-being.

Recently, oral health has been significantly elevated in importance, as researchers are able to find a direct correlation between declining oral health and underlying health conditions. Also, we are learning that a healthy mouth can help you maintain a healthy body and a healthy mind.

Are you wondering how oral heath can affect other systems in your body? Bacteria can spread from your oral cavity to your bloodstream, causing infections and other issues such as:

1. Heart disease

Several studies link chronic inflammation from periodontitis with the development of cardiovascular problems. Some evidence suggests that oral bacteria may be linked to heart disease, arterial blockages and stroke.

2. Diabetic complications

Periodontal disease can make your blood sugar difficult to control and cause worsening of your diabetes symptoms.

3. Pregnancy complications

Several studies have shown an association between periodontal disease and adverse outcomes in pregnancy such as premature deliveries, fetal growth restriction, and other complications.

4. Rheumatoid arthritis

Because arthritis is an autoimmune disease, improving your dental care could play a role in reducing the effects of RA.

5. Dementia

A recent analysis led by the National Institute of Aging scientists suggests that bacteria that cause gum disease are also associated with the development of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, specifically vascular dementia.*

Your oral health influences more than just your teeth. Poor oral and dental health can contribute to issues with your self-esteem, speech, or nutrition.

Keeping you smile healthy is an important part of your overall health.  Make sure to schedule regular cleanings and focus on preventative care in order to reduce your risk of severe gum disease and tooth loss.

* Source: Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.

 

About Dental Health Associates

At Dental Health Associates of Madison we are here to support you and your overall health and we create a personalized treatment plan for each and every patient. All of our dentists and staff will always be open and honest with you about your dental health, with a focus on preventative treatments and patient education. We’d love to schedule an appointment for you today!