Dentistry

The Powerful Effects of Dental Sealants | Woodbridge VA Dentist

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You may be advised to have your child’s teeth sealed by their dentist during their next dental appointment. Dental sealants help prevent tooth decay from developing on the chewing surfaces of your teeth. To make an informed decision, it is important to understand whether a dental procedure will affect your child’s oral health.

Why Get Sealants?

The use of sealants prevents tooth decay. Sealants are applied to the back teeth, which are particularly susceptible to decay. Sealants are frequently recommended by our dentists for children and teens, but they may also be beneficial for adults. 

Located in the back of your mouth, your molars develop deep grooves on their chewing surfaces, making it difficult to keep them clean. Sealants prevent 80% of decay during the first two years following their application. Approximately half of all decay can be prevented after four years following sealant application. The risk of tooth decay for a child without sealants is three times higher than that of a child with sealants.

At what age should sealants be applied?

The first set of molars usually appears around the age of six, and the second set appears around the age of 12. Generally, sealants are most effective when they are applied just after the molars have broken through the gum line. The best time to apply sealants will be determined by your dentist during your regular dental examination.

What Should I Expect?

The use of sealants is one of the most common procedures we perform at our office. There is rarely any discomfort associated with this process. Your child’s teeth will be treated with a special gel after they have been thoroughly cleaned. After the gel has been removed, a sealant will be applied. With the aid of a small blue curing light, the sealant hardens in a matter of seconds.

What Concerns Should I Have?

Sealants do not have any side effects, and allergic reactions are extremely rare when they are utilized. If your child has allergies, you should let your doctor know so that they can determine the best course of action. 

Next Steps

When applied and maintained properly, a sealant will last for years before it needs to be replaced. To preserve the integrity of your sealants and teeth, you should visit your dental office regularly. If your child had sealants many years ago and you are not sure whether they should be replaced, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with your Woodbridge VA dentist.

Please contact Woodbridge Dental Care for more information and we will be happy to schedule an appointment.

Woodbridge Dental Care
Phone: (703) 670-4994
4565 Daisy Reid Ave., Suite 335
Woodbridge, VA 22192

Tobacco Will Cause You To Lose Teeth | Woodbridge VA Dentist

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It is well known that smoking and chewing tobacco can cause severe health problems, especially for the lungs. There is also the imperative point to note that the mouth and teeth can also be equally at risk. Hence, it is best not to use tobacco at all. The following is what tobacco can do to your mouth.

Chewing Tobacco

The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) reports that tobacco chewers are 50 times more likely to develop gum and cheek cancer. In addition to causing gums to recede, tobacco also causes exposed roots to be sensitive. This is an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive and cause decay as a result. To prevent this from happening, it is advised that chewing tobacco be avoided. Thankfully, our experienced team of oral health professionals can offer you tips on how to break this habit as well as tips on how to improve your oral health.

Smoking

According to the American Dental Association, smoking one pack of cigarettes a day has the potential to cause two teeth to be lost per decade of life. The likelihood of losing teeth increases when you smoke. So, you should avoid smoking cigarettes and cigars. In addition to causing staining, smoking can also lead to bad breath and a less-than-attractive smile.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can affect many different areas of the mouth, including your tongue, lips, the floor of your mouth, and your gums. There is a high risk of oral cancer developing in men and in people over the age of 50. According to the American Dental Association, in the United States, the prevalence of oral cancer is on the rise, especially among people under the age of 30. If you smoke, it is important to ask your dentist about an oral cancer screening, as well as to arrange to have a full oral health examination. During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will examine your mouth, teeth, and cheeks for signs of abnormalities that could indicate oral cancer. If caught at an early stage, oral cancer can be successfully treated.

If you currently use tobacco, it is highly recommended that you cease using it. Our dentist in Woodbridge and your physician can provide you with assistance in quitting smoking. Having regular oral exams is a good idea for everyone, but those who use tobacco should be particularly vigilant about this. We invite you to schedule an appointment to visit our Woodbridge VA dentist so that we may identify any potential problems. 

For additional tips on keeping your mouth healthy or to schedule your next appointment, please contact Woodbridge Dental Care.

Woodbridge Dental Care
Phone: (703) 670-4994
4565 Daisy Reid Ave., Suite 335
Woodbridge, VA 22192

Can You Overbrush? | Woodbridge VA Dentist

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The chances are that you brush your teeth twice a day if you are conscientious about your oral hygiene. You may even brush after meals since you know that regular tooth brushing is a good habit that removes plaque and prevents tooth decay. Maybe you’re wondering, “Can you brush your teeth too much?” As it turns out, when it comes to brushing your teeth, there can be too much of a good thing.

Overbrushing your teeth refers to both “how much” and “how” you brush. If you brush too vigorously or compulsively, you put your mouth at risk for dental abrasion, dental sensitivity, and gum recession.

Abrasion 

According to the University of Southern California Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, dental abrasion is the loss of tooth structure caused by mechanical forces from a foreign object. The enthusiastic use of your toothbrush wears away the tooth enamel and eventually the softer dentin and cementum structures. Abrasion is characterized by worn, shiny, and often yellow or brown spots on the surface of a tooth near the gum line. A wedge-shaped or V-shaped indentation on the gum line is another sign of abrasion.

Tooth Sensitivity

If the tooth enamel is worn away by toothbrush abrasion, the dentin layer’s nerve endings become exposed or close enough to the surface to cause tooth sensitivity. You may experience discomfort or pain when your teeth are exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or sour stimuli or when you brush your teeth.

Gum Recession

Continually overbrushing and brushing improperly may also cause your gums to recede. The softer cementum of the root is exposed and vulnerable when this occurs. The exposed cementum is not only prone to wear and notching, causing sensitivity and pain, but it is also more likely to decay.

How to protect your teeth after overbrushing

Dental abrasion and gum recession can lead to cavities and even tooth loss if not treated. Depending on the degree of toothbrush abrasion and tooth sensitivity, your dentist may recommend treatments to cover the exposed dentin and protect the tooth. Some common treatments include applying a fluoride varnish to strengthen the teeth’s surface, bonding a tooth-colored filling over the abraded area, or covering the exposed area with a veneer. Overbrushing may cause your gums to recede so far that they may never return to their original size. In some cases, gum grafting might be needed to replace missing gum tissue and protect exposed cementum.

Using the Proper Brushing Technique and Tools

Fortunately, preventing overbrushing is as simple as using the correct technique and tools. Start by following these steps:

  • Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush. You may think that stiff bristles will do a better job of cleaning your teeth. However, they increase the risk of dental abrasion and gum recession.
  • Be sure to check your toothpaste. Toothpaste with high abrasive agents may also speed up the process of tooth loss. Choose a toothpaste that contains calcium and fluoride to strengthen your tooth enamel.
  • Make sure you are using the right technique. Are you brushing too hard? Look at your toothbrush. Using too much pressure might cause your bristles to flatten and fray within a few weeks. Place your toothbrush gently at an angle towards your gum line and brush in a soft circular motion.
  • Do not brush immediately after eating. You should wait at least 60 minutes after eating or drinking to brush your teeth, especially after consuming something acidic like lemons or soda. While you wait, drink water or chew sugarless gum to freshen your breath.
  • Take a look at your other habits. Overbrushing isn’t the only source of abrasion. As an example, suppose you routinely open bottles with your teeth, handle nails or pins with your mouth, or bite your fingernails. In that case, those activities might also cause dental abrasion or even a broken tooth. Enamel can also be worn away by lip or tongue piercings.

When it comes to a perfect smile, overbrushing won’t help. You will achieve clean teeth and a healthy mouth when you use the appropriate tools and implement a gentle but thorough brushing technique. Contact Woodbridge Dental Care today to schedule an appointment with our Woodbridge dentist today.

Woodbridge Dental Care
Phone: (703) 670-4994
4565 Daisy Reid Ave., Suite 335
Woodbridge, VA 22192

The Neurological Impact of Dental Health | Best Dentist in Woodbridge

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Throughout childhood, children are taught the importance of good oral hygiene, which includes brushing twice a day. Is this enough? Does it affect more than just your oral health? There have been many studies on this subject, but finding the truth can be challenging. Several studies have been criticized, and experts will need to wait a bit longer before truly determining whether poor oral health negatively impacts brain function. Based on the earlier findings, it appears that there is indeed a link between poor oral health and poor brain function.

What else is affected by poor oral health?

Quite a few things can be impacted by this. Brain function is not the only one. Poor oral health can negatively impact the heart. Men are especially at risk for cardiovascular diseases. Hundreds of bacteria from the gums can make their way to the heart and this can lead to the hardening of your arteries. You may experience thickening of the blood, which could lead to a blockage resulting in a heart attack or stroke. Because you breathe in air that has been contaminated by bacteria in your mouth, your lungs are also at risk. Generally, poor oral hygiene can result in inflamed and infected gums and teeth.

How does it affect brain function?

Aside from all the detrimental factors listed above, there has been research suggesting that poor oral health contributes to dementia. Essentially, if you have gingivitis, the bacteria may enter the brain through the various nerve pathways. In addition, bacteria can enter the brain through the bloodstream. According to some experts, this can cause dementia. Some believe it may even be the sole cause of the terrible disease.

Researchers at Rutgers University, New Jersey, conducted a recent study in which they examined whether poor oral health could contribute to brain dysfunction. The study primarily explored certain cognitive aspects and found that they have an impact on memory and general function, something that may surprise the average patient. According to the study, there is a significant relationship between oral health and memory. It is also noteworthy that oral health has the potential to influence complex attention and learning. 

Additionally, there was a relationship between oral health and stress, or at least perceived stress. High levels of stress are associated with dry mouth. Good oral hygiene is even more important for the elderly. The downside of this is that it may lead to impaired cognitive function, episodic memory loss, or in the worst-case scenario, complete dementia.

How Can You Stop It?

Your first step should be to assess your own oral health methods. As a result, you could begin to develop better hygiene practices that could help safeguard you against any of the above issues. If you are unsure of where to begin, speak to your dentist. Make sure you are brushing your teeth at least twice a day, morning and night. Use a good toothpaste, preferably one containing fluoride. Make sure you are flossing every day to keep your gums healthy and prevent decay from developing between your teeth. Mouthwashes are effective in killing bacteria and, when used properly, can be advantageous as part of your oral health routine. Most importantly, be sure you see your dentist at least two times a year to have your teeth cleaned and examined. 

Our dental office is here to take care of all of your dental health needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Woodbridge Dental Care
Phone: (703) 670-4994
4565 Daisy Reid Ave., Suite 335
Woodbridge, VA 22192

Do I Really Need to Clean My False Teeth? | Dentistry in Woodbridge VA

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People tend to assume that because dentures aren’t real teeth, they don’t require the same amount of care and maintenance as natural teeth, but this isn’t true. All dentures, whether partial or full, need to be cleaned and disinfected regularly to prevent bacteria and stains. Dentures, as well as your mouth, can be kept in good shape with proper care.

The following tips will help you take care of your dentures:

Rinsing

After every meal or snack, as well as after brushing your teeth, remove and rinse your dentures. The water helps wash away food particles and bacteria. Always handle your dentures carefully and avoid using hot water.

Brushing

It is very important to brush your dentures just as you would your teeth. Every morning and night, brush your gums, tongue, the roof of your mouth, and any natural teeth you may have. You should place towels around your sink as well as a hard floor surface to prevent your dentures from being damaged if they fall. Dentures should be cleaned using a soft-bristled toothbrush and without using any cleaning solutions. Water, denture paste, or non-abrasive toothpaste can be used. You can contact our dental office for recommendations on how to safely clean your dentures.

Removing adhesives

You can remove any adhesive residue by gargling with warm saltwater. You can then use a clean washcloth to clean your gums and the roof of your mouth before rinsing your mouth again with warm water. For stubborn adhesive bits, you can also brush your gums with a soft toothbrush.

Soaking overnight

To clean your dentures overnight, soak them in a denture cleaning solution or water. You can also use a fast-acting cleanser before storing your dentures in water. Be sure to follow the instructions on the denture cleaner package. When cleaning a partial denture, use a solution specifically designed for partial dentures.

When not wearing them, it is important to always submerge your partial or full dentures in water or denture solution. The acrylic can dry out over time and lose its shape, leading to the dentures becoming brittle and not fitting well. Dentures contain hundreds of microscopic holes, so it is crucial to keep them moist to prolong their life. When dentures dry out, the following problems can occur:

  • They become painful and uncomfortable. Moisture keeps dentures pliable, so they stay comfortable in your mouth. 
  • Contamination: If you soak your dentures in a cleaning solution at night, you will be able to keep them clean and eliminate all the harmful bacteria.
  • The material becomes brittle-When they are dry, dentures are brittle, which means they are more likely to break if dropped. If your dentures break, you will have to start the entire process over again.

Make sure you see your dentist regularly to have your mouth and dentures examined and cleaned. Please contact our dental office to schedule an appointment.

Woodbridge Dental Care
Phone: (703) 670-4994
4565 Daisy Reid Ave., Suite 335
Woodbridge, VA 22192

Traveling Soon? Don’t Forget Your Teeth ? | Woodbridge VA Dentist

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Maintaining a regular schedule can be difficult when you travel. For many people, brushing and flossing can seem time-consuming. If you are traveling on business or for pleasure, our team has put together some helpful travel tips to assist you in maintaining your oral health away from home.

Choose wisely when packing.

If you’re traveling for a long time, you should carry enough toothpaste and floss. If you have a limited amount of storage space, travel-sized products may be able to save you space. Another possible solution is purchasing a disposable toothbrush. These typically require less space and will not be as problematic if left behind. Many disposable toothbrushes even come with toothpaste already applied. Be sure the bristles of a disposable toothbrush are soft, since many disposable toothbrushes do not have soft bristles. Your dentist might be able to make some suggestions.

Make sure your toothbrush is covered.

Traveling will expose you to different kinds of germs. There are times when you might need to share surfaces with many other people, no matter where you stay or who you visit. A toothbrush cover that slips over the head of your toothbrush can prevent it from coming into contact with germs that accumulate on sinks and nightstands.

Water is good for you.

The best part of traveling is trying new foods. The consumption of sugary or acidic foods or beverages is generally not recommended since they can damage your teeth. Water is not only beneficial to our bodies, but can also be beneficial to our teeth. Drinking water can not only remove bacteria from teeth but also neutralize acids that damage enamel. The water also promotes saliva production, which promotes a healthy mouth. Consider taking a reusable water bottle on your travels.

Don’t forget the floss.

While it is important to brush our teeth when traveling, it is equally important to floss our teeth. Make a habit of always packing your floss with your toothbrush. In most cases, a simple package of disposable flossers will be worth the expense and can easily be included with your oral hygiene supplies.

Good habits shouldn’t be broken.

Keep your oral hygiene in check while you are traveling. Make sure you are brushing twice per day for two minutes and flossing daily. Maintaining good oral health when traveling is not easy, but it’s necessary. In addition to being fun, travel can also be stressful. A healthy smile depends on regular, thorough brushing and continuing care with your dentist in Woodbridge VA.

For your oral health needs, please schedule an appointment with our Woodbridge dentist.

Woodbridge Dental Care
Phone: (703) 670-4994
4565 Daisy Reid Ave., Suite 335
Woodbridge, VA 22192

Healthy Gums With One Special Tool | Woodbridge VA Dentist

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Oral hygiene and health care. Smiling women use dental floss white healthy teeth.

Loss of teeth, bad breath, and bleeding gums are among the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease. It can, however, start without any noticeable symptoms. When left untreated or undiagnosed, you could end up causing irreversible damage to your teeth and gums. Fortunately, preventing periodontal disease is possible. In fact, one of the most effective ways only takes a few minutes every day.

The Power of Floss

Since dental floss is easy to use and effective, it can be one of the best defenses against periodontal disease. The buildup of plaque and bacteria between your teeth contributes to periodontal disease. In addition to brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes, you should also floss every day. Dental floss allows you to reach areas that a toothbrush cannot. Food, debris, and sugar get caught in the gaps and tight spaces between teeth throughout the day. Flossing helps to remove these items from hard-to-reach places. If flossing is a difficult task for you, our dentist in Woodbridge can offer solutions.

Flossing Facts

According to a survey by the American Dental Association, only 40% of Americans floss every day. Likewise, the study found a direct correlation between regular intra-oral care and improved dental health. However, many people do not brush and floss as frequently as they should. In a study conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology, 27% of adults were not honest about their flossing habits when asked by their dentist. Even though you do not have to floss every time you brush your teeth, you should make it a habit to floss at least once a day.

How to Floss Properly

It can be confusing to know how to properly use dental floss. Take about 18 inches of floss and keep it taught between your thumb and index finger. Use about one inch of floss to clean between your teeth. Place the dental floss in between two teeth. Slide the floss up and down between your teeth, rubbing it against both sides. It’s important not to glide the floss into your gums. This might cause your gums to bruise or scratch. Take a fresh piece of floss between each pair of adjacent teeth as you make your way through the 18 inches of floss.

A few minutes of flossing each day can contribute to a lifetime of good oral health. It is one of the best ways for you to keep your gums healthy and prevent tooth decay from forming between your teeth. Floss regularly—your gums will be grateful.

Make sure you visit your dentist in Woodbridge VA two times each year to have your teeth cleaned and examined. Please contact our Woodbridge dentist today to schedule an appointment.

Woodbridge Dental Care
Phone: (703) 670-4994
4565 Daisy Reid Ave., Suite 335
Woodbridge, VA 22192

Sealants for Adults? | Cosmetic Dentist Woodbridge VA

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Sealants are often thought of as a treatment for children, but adults can also benefit from them. Sealants are used to protect our teeth by sealing the deep grooves and crevices in the chewing surfaces. According to a study performed by the American Dental Association, using sealants for adults can help prevent cavities from developing on healthy teeth.

What is a sealant?

A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating that is painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth. Although they do not replace daily brushing and flossing, dental sealants can prevent cavities from forming.

Despite being able to achieve good oral health at home, there are areas of the mouth that are hard to reach, making it more challenging to maintain good oral hygiene. You have grooves on your molars known as “pits” and “fissures.” Because these grooves are so deep, your toothbrush will not be able to clean them out. As a result, they trap food and bacteria, making them more susceptible to decay.

A consultation with your dentist will be able to determine whether or not dental sealants are a viable option for preventing tooth decay. Often, patients are surprised by how quickly and easily sealants can be applied, as shown below.

  • The teeth are thoroughly cleaned.
  • In the next step, the teeth are dried and etched with a solution that prepares the tooth surface for sealing.
  • We then apply the liquid sealant material, which flows directly into your teeth’s grooves.
  • A type of ultraviolet light called a curing light is placed on the tooth to harden the sealant material, which seals off the grooves and creates a smoother chewing surface that is easier to clean.

It is not necessary to do anything special to maintain a sealant, and you can brush and floss as usual. However, there are some precautions to keep in mind. Make sure you use a toothbrush with soft bristles and toothpaste containing remineralizing agents like hydroxyapatite. Consumption of foods such as berries, coffee, tea, or red wine can also stain sealants. To reduce the likelihood of staining, it is recommended that you rinse your mouth after eating these foods. Finally, eating sticky, chewy, or hard foods may cause the sealant to wear down. Our dental office will check your sealants at each appointment for any signs of wear. 

With proper at-home care and regular professional cleaning, sealants can last up to ten years. Please contact our dental office if you have questions, and we would be happy to schedule an appointment.

Woodbridge Dental Care
Phone: (703) 670-4994
4565 Daisy Reid Ave., Suite 335
Woodbridge, VA 22192

Your Child’s Routine Dental Appointment | Dentist Woodbridge VA

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The American Dental Association recommends that all patients schedule routine six-month check-up exams. This is particularly important for growing children. Their mouth is constantly changing, and they are often more prone to tooth decay. It is vital to establish the correct oral health habits when they are young so that it becomes a lifetime routine. 

At your child’s visit, we will screen their mouth for tooth decay and gum disease. We will also clean their teeth. Regular professional dental cleanings are essential for a healthy mouth. During your child’s dental cleaning, we will gently remove any buildup of plaque or tartar to help prevent tooth decay.

During this visit, our team will spend time discussing proper brushing technique and oral

hygiene with your child. Depending on your child’s age, we may also teach them about the correct use of floss and mouthwash. Our team members are friendly, patient, and great with kids, and will answer all questions that you or your child may have. 

We may recommend that fluoride be applied to the teeth as part of your child’s treatment. Topical fluoride is used to strengthen enamel and make teeth more resistant to tooth decay. The process is easy, safe, and effective. 

We also may recommend the placement of sealants for your child. Sealants are highly effective in preventing tooth decay and cavities on your child’s molars and premolars. These areas are the most susceptible to cavities due to the anatomized grooves.

Typically, children get sealants on their permanent molars and premolars as soon as these teeth come in. These sealants can protect the teeth through the cavity-prone years of ages 6 to 14. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants.

The process of applying sealants is easy and fast. The application steps are as follows:

●Your child’s teeth are thoroughly cleaned

●The teeth are dried

●A liquid solution is put on the chewing surfaces of the teeth

●The solution is cured using a special curing light

Sealants act as a barrier and protect the enamel from plaque and acids. They may last for several years before a reapplication is needed. As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay. Sealants are not a substitute for brushing your teeth. It is important to maintain proper oral hygiene and keep up with professional dental cleanings. Also, sealants do not protect between teeth, so it is essential to continue to floss daily.

Our expert dentist and knowledgeable team have the experience and qualifications to care for your child’s teeth, gums and mouth throughout various stages of childhood. For more information or to request an appointment, contact our office today.

Woodbridge Dental Care
Phone: (703) 670-4994
4565 Daisy Reid Ave., Suite 335
Woodbridge, VA 22192

The Importance of Screening for Oral Cancer | Dentist in Woodbridge VA

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Like with every form of cancer, early diagnosis can have a profound impact on the success of your treatment. Regular screenings are your first line of defense against oral cancer and our dentist is thoroughly trained in screening for oral cancer.

During your screening, our Woodbridge, VA dental team will check your lips, tongue, gums, mouth, and throat for any abnormalities that could be or become cancerous. We will give careful consideration to any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you have experienced any oral cancer symptoms for more than two weeks without improvement, schedule an appointment and tell your dentist in 22192 immediately. Symptoms that could indicate oral cancer include:

●Ear pain

●Mouth sores that don’t heal

●White or red patches in your mouth

●Dramatic weight loss

●Lumps or swelling in or around your mouth

●Sore throat without other sinus symptoms

●Sensation of something caught in the back of your throat

●Pain or difficulty in swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue

One adult American dies of oral cancer every hour. Though anyone can develop oral cancer, some factors can increase your risks. Some of the most common risk factors include: genetic predisposition, prolonged sun exposure, unhealthy diet, smoking, chewing tobacco, and excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages. Oral cancer is more common in men than women. 

Whatever the cause, the success of treatment depends on the size, type, and stage of the cancer. Early detection can play a critical role in your successful recovery. When found in early stages,oral cancers have an 80–90% survival rate. Oral cancers that are found in early or precancerous stages can often be removed and require less invasive procedures to treat. Later stages of cancer are likely to be larger and more complex and often have spread far beyond your mouth.

If you would like more information about oral cancer and oral cancer screening, contact our Woodbridge, VA dental office for a consultation or to schedule a comprehensive dental exam.

Woodbridge Dental Care
Phone: (703) 670-4994
4565 Daisy Reid Ave., Suite 335
Woodbridge, VA 22192