Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day, is one of the cornerstones of an effective daily oral hygiene routine. The ADA recommends you brush your teeth with a soft bristled toothbrush and toothpaste. For the average person using a brand of toothpaste with mild abrasives will improve the toothbrushes ability to remove food particles and plaque from the surfaces of your teeth. When you are shopping for toothpaste there are a few things to keep in mind.

Many people experience anxiety when they visit the dentist. The thought of sitting in a dental chair may make them nervous, or even afraid. Some people will avoid going to the dentist unless there is no other choice. Are you one of these people? Set your fears aside! At our dental office, we offer sedation dentistry for individuals who suffer from dental anxiety.

Flossing your teeth removes oral debris, food particles, bacteria, and plaque stuck in between the teeth, making you less susceptible to gingivitis and gum disease which can arise from hardened plaque. If it is not removed daily, plaque will irritate your gum tissue, causing gum sensitivity. Once plaque hardens into a mineral deposit called tartar it will need to be removed by a professional dental cleaning.

Stains on your teeth from dark foods and drink, tobacco use or the natural process of aging can leave you wanting a brighter, whiter smile. The degree of staining on your teeth will determine which whitening products or procedures are called for to restore the white smile you’ve always wanted.

As a consumer, you have probably discovered that not all marketing claims are truthful, and products are not always as advertised. The American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance found on dental products ensures that a product is safe and effective and does exactly what it claims to do. With more than 300 dental products carrying the ADA Seal of Acceptance you are likely to find the seal on a product you are currently using.

If you are expecting a baby, don’t forget to see your dentist! Finding a good obstetrician is not the only important thing you can do when you are pregnant, as your oral health can impact the health of your unborn baby. Schedule an appointment especially if it has been awhile since your last checkup and cleaning.

Different procedures and conditions might lead your dentist or oral surgeon to suggest a certain level of sedation. Before any sedation dentistry, be sure to let your dentist know about any medications you are taking.

Have you been told that some drinks are better for your teeth than others are? Do you know what benefits or risks are associated with certain beverages? For instance, do you know what drinks could cause tooth decay and gum disease or which drinks can help you prevent them?

Oral piercings have become much more popular lately—but are they safe? If you are considering having a piercing, whether in your tongue or lips, there are a few things you should consider.

If you have one or more of the following dental issues, dental veneers may be the perfect solution for your smile:

• Discolored teeth
• Chipped teeth
• Broken teeth
• Misaligned teeth
• Uneven teeth
• Irregularly shaped teeth
• Gaps between your teeth
• Teeth that are worn down