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Dupont Dental - Your Washington DC Dentist
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It almost never fails; you go to the dentist, and no matter how well you think you’re doing, they tell you that you need to brush more or floss or use more mouthwash.
Is there any way to brush your teeth so that your dentist will be satisfied? It turns out there is, and most experts recommend a few steps to brushing teeth. We’ll tell you more about them in the paragraphs below.
Most dentists will recommend using a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Fluoride is useful because it works in tandem with saliva. Saliva protects your teeth by putting a layer of calcium and phosphate on top of your teeth, both of which are active ingredients in enamel.
Fluoride combines with these elements to strengthen the defense. It’s like taking armor and then wearing another suit of armor over it. For this reason, it’s one of the most important steps to brushing teeth.
You have to brush every day to keep it working, but it adds a layer of protection. One thing to note, you should never swallow fluoride. It’s not dangerous in small amounts, but almost everything is poisonous if you take in too much of it.
You may have heard before that you’re supposed to brush in circles, but why is that? The primary reason is to get rid of the plaque and its components.
Plaque is a substance known as a microbial film, which is a substance that provides a home for several different types of bacteria. Plaque is made up of four main ingredients: saliva, tiny bits of food, carbohydrates, and bacteria.
So how does this relate to brushing in little circles? It turns out that brushing in straight lines can lead to holes being worn into the enamel, which can trap food or other ingredients of plaque.
Brushing in circles pushes many of these ingredients away from your gums and off your teeth altogether. Keep in mind, you’ll need to angle the brush away from the gums to get the full effect.
It’s easy to forget, but you need to brush the back of your teeth as well. In this case, out of sight does not mean out of trouble.
Try to brush the backs of your teeth the same way as the fronts, in circles and pushing away from the gums.
It’s a good idea to brush your tongue after you finish with your teeth. Some would also suggest brushing the sides and roof of your mouth.
Not only can these areas also hold bacteria and other plaque ingredients, but brushing them might also freshen your breath.
Not everybody flosses and not everybody rinses with mouthwash, but either one can do your teeth some good. One thing you should always do, however, is clean your toothbrush.
A dirty toothbrush can expose your mouth to even more germs, so it needs to be kept clean and dry. You can’t keep a toothbrush clean forever, though, so you should be replacing it about twice per year.
In the paragraphs above, we’ve listed five important steps to brushing teeth. Keep in mind that while brushing teeth isn’t that complex, a lot of the science behind it and dental health as a whole is. If you’re interested in this subject, we encourage you to do more research on your own.
One great place to start is on our website. We can give you advice about tooth sensitivity, what it is and how to treat it.
Around 2.1 percent of Americans suffer from dentophobia. This is more than a dislike of going to the dentist. Dentophobia involves severe anxiety and fear around getting in the chair.
For some, it prevents them from getting important dental checkups. It puts their oral health at risk.
If you can relate to this, you’re not alone. And, there are many things you can do to make visiting the dentist easier.
Ready to book your appointment? Read these tips on how to get over fear of the dentist first.
Like any other profession, there are nice doctors and there are less than nice ones. If you currently have a dentist you’re not comfortable with, find a new one.
Since this phobia prevents you from getting dental care, take this research seriously. Arrange a consultation with each prospect and explain your anxiety.
A kind, compassionate dentist will be understanding of your condition. They’ll be willing to work with you on making it a safe, calm, and easy experience. Even if you haven’t seen a dentist in years, it’s never too late.
Your dentist won’t know you’re having anxiety unless you tell them. It’s crucial that you have crystal clear communication.
Before the procedure, ask every question you have. Tell them how you’re feeling and what you’d like from them.
Work out a hand signal that you can give when you need a break. For some, the fear of not being able to communicate when dental work’s being done is scary. A hand signal restores your control.
Of course, you’re going to feel uneasy if you focus on the drill in your mouth. By distracting yourself you can avoid feeling anxious.
Many dental offices have TV’s on the wall for you to watch. You could also bring headphones and listen to music or an audiobook.
If you prefer tactile distractions, bring a stress ball or some slime to fiddle with. You could even practice self-hypnosis or meditation.
Sometimes, the reason you feel nervous is the fear of the unknown. By learning everything you can about the procedure you’re getting, you reduce that fear.
Research the different steps in a dental cleaning or your specific procedure. At the appointment, ask the dentist to walk you through each step.
Consider booking a consultation before each appointment so the dentist has time to educate you fully.
Some dental procedures can be uncomfortable or even painful. Inquire about different types of anesthesia and sedation.
Each dentist has a preference for providing these drugs. Some prefer not to sedate you but will offer local anesthesia. Especially if they’re aware of your phobia.
It never hurts to ask about your options.
The phobia of going to the dentist is more common than you’d think. Dentists are used to seeing patients who have anxiety about their appointment.
To tackle your dentophobia, use the tips above on how to get over fear of the dentist.
If you’re looking for a dentist in Washington, D.C., give us a call. Dupont Dental Associates comprises of a team of compassionate and experienced dentists. We will work with you to overcome your fears and improve your dental health.
Growing up, we are taught good dental health is important. As we age we learn just how important that advice was.
If you’re dealing with damaged or failing teeth, you may not smile as much or live with discomfort. The thought of cosmetic dentistry may seem like a faraway option due to cost. The truth is, over time cosmetic dental surgery cost has become more affordable.
If you are tired of being embarrassed about your teeth, you should consult with a cosmetic dentist. Before you do, here is a complete guide to help you understand what they have to offer.
One focuses on your oral health and hygiene, while the other is about the appearance of your teeth. If you have broken, discolored, or missing teeth chances are that you haven’t been consistent with your oral healthcare.
The need for cosmetic dentistry can also be related to other health issues that are unrelated to oral care. This is more reason for wanting to brighten your smile.
Having nice teeth goes a long way in improving your overall self-esteem.
Cosmetic dentistry addresses several problems. Most of them can be treated and corrected with a simple procedure. Here are a few of them.
Of all of the cosmetic procedures, teeth whitening is the quickest and least expensive. Depending on the level of discoloration, you can have pearly whites in one or more appointments.
Getting a filling is a dental procedure that involves removing tooth decay and rebuilding the tooth. There are several dental filling materials are available for patients to choose from.
Artificial crowns have the same purpose as fillings. They are designed to repair cracked, broken, or decaying teeth. Instead of a filling, crowns cover the damaged tooth.
Probably the most intrusive process, implants require the use of metal posts or frames that are attached to the jaw bone. These fixtures allow the dentist to make permanent tooth replacements.
Dental implants allow for a tooth replacement where a tooth has been pulled or severally damaged. Implants can also be used to give an individual a full set of teeth.
Commonly known as braces, orthodontia is a process used to realign teeth. A popular process was to attach wire fittings to the teeth that have to be worn for several years.
With new technology, braces have been replaced with less intrusive devices like Invisalign.
Cosmetic dental prices vary based on the type of service you need. Most dental insurance will not cover the cost of elective procedures but there are a few that do.
If you are thinking about having a procedure done it is worth the cost of getting a consultation.
Now that you know more about cosmetic dentistry are you ready to make the call? Don’t deny yourself the relief you want and need.
Contact us today for a full dental consultation.
How many times has your dentist reminded you to floss?
Sure, you’ve heard it a million times. But is flossing important, or is it just something dentists say?
Only 30% of people say they floss daily. Meanwhile, 32% admit to never flossing.
Where do you fall on the spectrum? Do you need to step up your flossing game?
If you want to keep your natural smile as long as possible, you need a solid oral hygiene routine. Flossing does things that brushing and using mouthwash can’t do for your teeth.
But flossing isn’t just about health. It can make your smile look (and smell) better. That gives you more reasons to smile.
Still not convinced you should reach for the floss on a daily basis? Read on to learn about flossing benefits.
Brushing your teeth for at least two minutes two times a day cleans the visible surfaces. But the bristles can’t reach between the teeth.
Flossing removes the plaque on those surfaces. Floss handles about 40% of plaque removal. That’s a lot of plaque left behind if you don’t floss.
What’s wrong with leaving plaque on your teeth?
First, it turns to tartar. You need a dentist to remove it. It can also cause cavities and gum issues.
Flashing your pearly whites comes naturally when your teeth look clean and bright. Flossing improves the look of your teeth by removing food particles that get stuck in the gaps.
Removing plaque before it turns to tartar helps your teeth look whiter. As plaque builds, it becomes noticeable on your teeth.
You’ll feel more confident in your smile when you keep your teeth clean and healthy.
Periodontal disease affects 47.2% of adults 30 and older. At age 65, that number increases to 70.1%.
It starts with swollen, red gums. If not treated, gum disease can cause bone loss and tooth loss.
Getting rid of plaque between your teeth cuts down on your risk of periodontal disease.
Think flossing is only about your oral health? Preventing gum disease may prevent other health issues.
Periodontal disease appears to increase risks of heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, and other serious health conditions. Flossing regularly may help you stay healthier.
If you’re an expectant mother, taking care of your teeth is beneficial for your baby, too. Pregnant women with gum disease may be at a higher risk for premature birth and low birth weight.
When answering, “Is flossing important,” you often come up with answers related to health. But the simple habit can help your finances, too.
Flossing is part of your preventative oral care routine. It cuts down on your risks of cavities and gum disease. It’s much cheaper to stock up on floss than it is to pay dental bills for those treatments.
Battle bad breath by removing food particles and bacteria that can cause odor. When paired with regular brushing, flossing can help you minimize breath issues. Fresh breath can boost your confidence in social situations.
When you open wide to floss, you get a clear look inside your mouth. Do you notice anything different about your mouth, gums, teeth, or tongue?
Your mouth sometimes shows signs of disease, including cancer and HIV/AIDS. Talk to your dentist about any lesions, swelling, or redness you notice while you floss.
Flossing, brushing, and regular dental checkups are all part of a solid oral care routine. Is flossing important? Yes, especially when combined with brushing.
Are you looking for a dental care team you can trust? Our friendly dental staff is ready to help you with all your dental care needs.
Schedule an appointment today for a checkup to help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Having a baby can be an incredibly exciting time for new parents. They have a dozen new responsibilities that they have to keep track of each day in order to take care of their new loved one. However, many parents are unaware of the sensitive subject of baby teeth. A baby’s teeth are very different than a pair of adult teeth. This means that they need to be treated differently in order to take care of them properly. Fortunately, Dupont Dental has some information for new parents about baby teeth and how you should properly take care of them for optimal dental health.
Many parents consider teething to be a period when babies experience swelling and discomfort in their teeth. However, a baby’s development of teeth begins to happen before they are even born. Baby teeth will begin to appear in their gumline during the sixth week of pregnancy. It is important to help improve your child’s overall teeth health by eating leafy greens and calcium enriched foods during your pregnancy. This will ensure that your baby’s teeth will develop strong whenever they come out of the womb.
Many children will begin to get their first set of teeth whenever they turn 4 months old. However, most children will begin to see their first teeth at about 6 months. They come in pairs and are usually on the bottom row. However, once your baby begins to have to teeth it is up to the parent to perform proper pediatric dental care to keep them healthy.
You should clean your baby’s mouth before any teeth begin to come in. Cleaning their gums with a warm and wet washcloth will help keep them healthy. However, once the teeth do begin to come in you will need to clean them. There are special brushes that you can utilize to help you clean your baby’s teeth. Believe it or not, babies can actually develop cavities during this time as well due to lack of cleaning. Make sure that you clean your baby’s teeth to help them achieve optimal dental health.
Finding the right pediatric dentist is important to ensure that your baby’s teeth are in good hands. It is heavily recommended that you take your baby to the dentist every 6 months to ensure that cavities and other mouth problems do not develop. Your dentist will be able to recommend various tips that can help you keep your baby’s teeth health as well.
You want to make sure that you have the right dental professionals helping you whenever your baby begins to develop teeth. DupontDental has the right resources you need in order to keep your baby’s teeth healthy. Our staff of dental professionals has years of experience helping children maintain good oral hygiene. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and our team of professionals will be standing by to assist.
One of the last things we often consider when it comes to our well-being is our dental health. Day in and out our teeth work hard to process the food that we will consume. However, over time our teeth can begin to wear down if we do not properly take care of them. There are millions of people in the U.S. alone who suffer from cavities each year. However, the worst bit of news about this is that most of these people do not receive the dental care that they need in order to remedy this medical condition. Here are some things that can happen if you do not get your cavity taken care of and why you need to receive dental care immediately.
A decayed tooth will eventually need to be removed from your mouth. This can lead to tooth extraction. Though this procedure will remove the infected tooth, you will find yourself missing teeth in the process. While there are replacement teeth available that you can use to correct your smile, they can be costly to receive. This problem can be avoided in the first place if one were to practice proper dental hygiene.
A cavity is something that causes nerve pain in the tooth. It can be excruciating at times and cause a person to feel incredible amounts of discomfort. However, many people let this pain go on for too long and it causes more problems since it develops uncontested.
Though we may practice all the proper dental hygiene in the world, cavities can still happen regardless. Visiting your dentist regularly is crucial to ensure that you can check up on your teeth for cavities and receive the dental care that you need in order to remedy them. As mentioned in the previous paragraphs, cavities can lead to a variety of problems and potentially the loss of a tooth.
A dentist will be able to fill a cavity with a special solution that will prevent bacteria and other food items from becoming lodged into your hollow teeth. Visiting a dentist is also healthy to ensure that no other mouth related health issues are developing. Your dentist will help you figure out the best schedule possible to receive your checkups at their office regularly.
We cannot ignore the dental health neglect that many people in this country oftentimes overlook. 31.6% of people aged 22-44 have untreated dental issues that become worse over time. Tooth decay can lead to other health issues that correlate with the body as well.
We here at Dupont Dental play an active role when it comes to spreading awareness about dental health. We encourage you to come in and schedule an appointment to receive a dental checkup to ensure that your teeth are at optimal health. We provide professional cavity filling services as well for people who need that type of specific dental care. Our team is standing by to help you whenever you need it. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
We all know the importance of proper dental care. Brushing, flossing our teeth, and avoiding sugary foods are the best ways to maintain proper dental health. However, many people are unaware of the fact that minerals can help improve the health of your teeth. A mineral can help remove bacteria and fight off various infections in your mouth. A vitamin can also help you accomplish this as well. Let’s take a look at some more information on vitamins and minerals and how you should implement them into your diet more.
Here is some information about the various vitamins and minerals that you need to consume to have a healthy mouth.
We all know that calcium helps build strong bones in your body. Your teeth are part of those bones and can benefit from calcium’s healthy attributes. Calcium can help keep your teeth’s enamel healthy and improve the strength of your jaw. You can find calcium in various dairy products such as milk and cheese and also in other vegetables too.
Iron helps deliver oxygen throughout your body. Iron can help prevent tongue inflammation or mouth sores. You can find iron in various meat products such as beef and chicken.
Here are but a few vitamins that can help improve your mouth’s health:
Everyone needs to get their teeth checked regularly. It can help you keep up with your dental health and assess the state that your teeth are in. However, you will want to find a dentist that you can trust. Dupont Dental has you covered when it comes to dental care. Our practice is led by Dr. Seiden and Dr. Banks and has some of the friendliest dental staff in town. Let us help you get your smile back on track. Be sure to schedule a consultation today to take yourself one step closer towards dental health.
When you’re sick it’s easy to disregard your teeth and focus on the runny nose, muscle aches, and chills. But while it’s ok to crash on the couch most of the day, it’s important to stagger to the sink and brush those teeth every now and then. Here are some more easy ways to take care of your mouth when you’re under the weather.
Those menthol-fresh cough drops may feel great to your throat, but they can wreak havoc in your mouth, especially if you’re popping one after another to get through the day. Choose a sugar-free version and rinse or brush your teeth afterward. Even medicines can contain quite a bit of sugar, so opt for sugar-free there too. Many of us turn to sports drinks to replace electrolytes or fizzy sodas to calm an upset stomach, but most of the time water is just as beneficial and doesn’t come with the sugary side effects.
Keep the sweet drinks in moderation, but make sure to chug water to stay hydrated. Congestion can lead to breathing through your mouth, and that can dry things out. A dry mouth means less saliva to wash away food particles, which can then burrow in and cause cavities. It can also cause bad breath and scare away well-wishers who come take care of you. Besides the benefits to your mouth, drinking plenty of water helps the rest of your body attach the nasty germs that got you in this predicament in the first place, helping you recover faster.
One of the most unpleasant sickness side effects of flu season quite literally leaves a bad taste in your mouth. After vomiting, one of your first reactions will probably be to reach for your toothbrush. Sounds like a great idea, right? Not so fast—brushing right away can actually spread the acid and germs around your mouth. First, rinse with warm water and a little bit of baking soda. Wait a few minutes and then brush away all of those germs. Make sure to brush your tongue and floss too. This is no time to skimp on the cleaning.
Did you know that cold and flu germs can live in your mouth? Brushing your teeth regularly can help get rid of those germs and reduce the risk of passing them on to someone else when you cough or sneeze. And of course, remember to cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze.
When the inevitable sickness strikes this cold and flu season, relax and take it easy. But if you want to recover quickly without compromising your dental health, don’t neglect those pearly whites. If you haven’t been in the last few months, now is a great time to contact Dupont Dental for an appointment. They’ll make sure your teeth are in tip-top shape going into this cold and flu season and give you expert advice on the right dental care plan to protect your mouth from those big, bad germs.
Let’s be honest, it is very easy to have the habit of putting off a dental appointment one time or the other. Some people have even put off going to the dentist completely for many years. Over time, teeth fall into bad shape. Plaque and tartar start to build up, sensitivity, bleeding gums, toothaches, and gradual decay of teeth. At this point, many people question whether it is too late to go to the dentist.
No matter your age, the condition of your teeth, or how long it’s been since your last dental checkup, there is always something the dentist can do to help you. Even if all your teeth have fallen out, your oral health can still be restored to give you more confidence and boost your self-esteem.
Don’t be embarrassed or ashamed for not keeping up with a dental routine, it happens to the best of us. Life gets busy with family issues, work, traveling, financial issues, anxiety, etc. It doesn’t matter how long it’s been, make the first step; months or years, don’t let it hold you back.
Going to the dentist regularly, even when nothing is wrong, is very important for your dental health. The importance of professional dental care is:
The dentist can detect any tooth decay, gum problems, and any indications of oral cancer before the problem gets out of hand. Prevention is always the best cure when it comes to preserving your smile. Dental care is very important for women who are pregnant or nursing because gum disease in pregnant women has been linked to some birth defects and complications during birth.
Most people keep off going to the dentist because they fear the cost, however, the more you stay away, the costlier it becomes, and the more hours you will have to spend in a dentist’s office.
By going to the dentist on a regular basis, he or she will be able to detect any oral health issues and offer you the best treatment. This way you get to maintain healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. The dentist can offer teeth-whitening options for stained teeth, sensitive toothpaste to preserve the enamel, treat receding gums, and curb gum disease.
Life can be stressful, between paying rent, bills, raising children, working, and other responsibilities, it can be difficult to make time to take care of yourself. Brushing your teeth every day and visiting the dentist might not seem like very pressing matters, but they are very important in the long-run. Going to the dentist is not too late, and you should not put it off anymore if you care about your overall well-being.
At Dupont Dental, we aim to ensure your oral health is great. Do not hesitate to ask us any questions you may have. We provide everything from ordinary fillings to implants, and we will work to help you and your family members in achieving healthy, beautiful smiles. Call us today to book an appointment.