Electric versus Manual Toothbrushes

A number of studies have been conducted to determine if electric toothbrushes are more effective than manual brushes. Results show that overall, electric brushes are better at controlling plaque and thoroughly cleaning the teeth. However, not all electric brushes are the same. We offer two of the best one the market, the Oral-B and Philips Sonicare toothbrushes. They are available below retail cost, and if you are interested in purchasing one our staff will be glad to demonstrate how they work.
Our dentists recommend the Oral-B toothbrush, which has:

• a small head to help clean the hard-to-reach areas of your mouth
• a built-in timer to ensure you brush for the proper amount of time
• a pressure sensor that alerts when you are brushing too hard

Although it is possible to do a good brushing using a manual brush, they simply cannot mirror the fine movements of an electric brush. Ultimately, electric brushes leave you with a cleaner and healthier mouth. Visit Our Site Today!!

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NiteWhite

NiteWhite is a take-home system that uses patented bleaching technology to safely and effectively whiten your teeth - while you sleep! It is easy to use, and most patients begin to see results in as little as a few days. Its unique formula works through the night to dissolve stains an dramatically brighten your smile. NightWhite combines its whitening agents with Amorphous Calcium Phosphate to reduce sensitivity, as well as help maintain luster and prevent cavities.

On your first visit, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth. These are then sent to the lab where your custom whitening trays are created. The trays are flexible and comfortable, and are designed to evenly distribute the whitening gel on your teeth. At your next visit the trays are fitted and your dentist will give you the NightWhite gel to take home, along with specific instructions on how to use the trays.

Each NiteWhite kit includes:

• Nine syringes of bleaching gel
• A case for your trays
• A shade guide to monitor your progress
• Detailed instruction booklet

If you live in the Lexington area and are looking to brighten your smile, call or email us today to set up an appointment! 

Flossing Your Teeth

While it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day, brushing alone is not enough to clean the surfaces between the teeth. The only way to thoroughly clean these areas is by flossing at least once a day, before you go to bed. However, it is recommended to floss after every meal if possible.

First cut a piece of dental floss, about 2 feet long. Then wrap both ends around your middle fingers. Gently glide the floss in between all your teeth, making sure you are not cutting your gums. As you floss, “hug” each side of the tooth and move the floss up and down and back and forth. Then repeat this on the opposite side of the adjacent tooth.

Bad Breath

There are a few different causes of bad breath. Ranging from stomach problems to diets and teeth problems, most of the causes can be found in the mouth. They are:

1. Tongue (when bacteria grows in between the papilla)
2. Teeth cavities (especially when food particles get stuck in them)
3. Gum diseases
4. Extraction sites during healing
5. Dentures when not cleaned properly
6. Alcohol and tobacco

If you or someone you know is concerned about bad breath, the first step is a dental check up. Your dentist will be able to confirm or rule out the source of bad breath.

When the cause is found, treatment will be determined and explained by your dentist. If the source of the bad breath is your mouth, there is little chance that mouth washes or mints can treat the problem. They usually mask the problem for a short period of time, and can sometimes exacerbate the situation (mouthwashes that contain alcohol cause dry mouth and usually make the bad breath worse).

These are a few other, non-dental reasons that cause bad breath:

1. Sore throat
2. Tonsillitis
3. Some food
4. Infection of air passages

Following a good oral hygiene routine and receiving regular dental check ups are the best ways to prevent bad breath.