4 Dental Hygiene Tips To Protect Your Teeth and Gums

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums takes effort, but it’s worth it! As you age, if you take good care of your teeth, you can avoid painful problems like dental infections and cavities. In this article, we’ll talk about five helpful things you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

1. Maintain a Consistent Tooth Brushing Routine

Brush your teeth twice each day, for two minutes each time. You can time yourself while you brush, or you can play a song that’s two minutes long. You can also brush your teeth once during the day, if you feel like you need it. Floss once daily, at the end of the day.

2. Get a Brushing Tutorial From Your Dentist

You may have been shown the proper way to brush your teeth years ago, but it’s easy to develop bad habits. If you’re missing certain parts of your mouth, or brushing too hard, you could be doing damage to your teeth. Ask your dentist to show you the best way to brush your teeth when you go in for your next dental exam in St. Cloud MN. If there’s time, have your dentist show you the best method for flossing too.

3. Know the Signs of a Problem

Learn to recognize the signs of a dental problem. Below are some symptoms to watch for:

  • Pain in the tooth
  • Swelling around the tooth
  • Bad breath that doesn’t go away when you brush your teeth
  • Sudden temperature sensitivity in a tooth
  • Stains or dark marks on your teeth
  • Loose teeth
  • A change in the way your teeth align when your mouth is closed

4. Use an Electric Toothbrush

Electric toothbrushes have many features that can help make your tooth brushing experience more productive and effective. For example, many electric toothbrushes have a timer built in that will tell you when you’ve been brushing your teeth for long enough. Some can sense how much pressure you’re putting on the brush, and can tell you if you’re pushing too hard. Ask your dentist about the best electric toothbrush for you.

Do you have more questions about how to keep your teeth healthy? See your dentist in St. Cloud MN. Call Friesz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry to make an appointment and see the dentist today.

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How to Correct Minor Tooth Movement with SureSmile 

Have you been thinking about having your teeth or your child’s teeth straightened? If so, you are going to need a dentist that offers minor tooth movement services in St. Cloud, MN.

Do you know what is perfect for correcting minor tooth movement? SureSmile. What is SureSmile you ask? Let’s find out.

What Is SureSmile?

SureSmile are clear aligners that are an alternative to other teeth-straightening methods such as metal braces, etc. SureSmile aligners are perfect for people who just need some minor teeth straightening performed. Your dentist in St. Cloud, MN will be able to give you more information about SureSmile clear aligners.

How Does SureSmile Work?

SureSmile clear aligners can straighten misaligned teeth, close any gaps you might have in-between your teeth, and correct over or underbites. SureSmile can do all that without having to bear the awkwardness and prickly feeling of metal braces.

Additionally, SureSmile aligners are virtually invisible. And, unlike metal braces, you can take them out while you are eating. That means you don’t have to worry about food getting stuck in your braces when you eat. It also means you don’t have to worry about other issues that come with having metal braces such as infection or damage to your teeth because you can’t reach or clean your teeth properly.

What Is the Difference Between SureSmile and Other Invisaligners?

The difference between SureSmile and other invisaligners is that SureSmile provides a better fit, so they are more comfortable, and you won’t need as many adjustments. Additionally, SureSmile aligners work faster than other invisaligners.

How Fast Do SureSmile Aligners Work?

For most people, SureSmile works 40% faster than other invisaligners. And, they don’t need as many adjustments or attachments as other invisaligners do either.

How Long Do You Have to Wear SureSmile Clear Aligners?

Of course, how long SureSmile clear aligners have to be worn will be different for everyone and will depend on how much your teeth need to be straightened. However, generally, SureSmile aligners take anywhere from 6- to 18-months to fully straighten a person’s teeth.

Does SureSmile Require Attachments?

Your dentist will use 3D modeling software to create detailed images of your teeth. This will enable them to make any corrections you need to your bite or your teeth. They will make these corrections by placing small, tooth-colored attachments where needed.

If you need an orthodontist in St. Cloud, MN, please Contact Friesz Family & Cosmetic Dentistry today. We pride ourselves on providing individual attention in a warm, friendly atmosphere.

 

 

Caring for Your New Dental Crown

When you opt for a dental crown in St. Cloud, MN, you get a tooth that is restored, which means you regain your self-confidence and your full smile function. The biggest question most patients have after getting a new crown is how they should take care of it for the long term. Here is a closer look at what you need to know about caring for your new dental crown.

Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods

Crowns are durable dental implements, but some hard and sticky foods can still put your crown at risk just as certain foods can cause damage to your natural teeth. Once you have a crown, be especially attentive to things like taffy, ice, and hard candy. These types of foods can put undue stress on the bond between the crown and the underlying tooth, which may cause the crown to dislodge.

Maintain a Good Home Oral Hygiene Routine

Even though your new crown is not going to be prone to decay, the tooth beneath it is still natural and will need all the same care and attention to keep it healthy. Be sure to remain vigilant about oral hygiene at home, including flossing around the crown just as you do the rest of your teeth.

Kick Bad Habits

Certain habits can be really hard on a crown, especially if you opt for a porcelain crown. Once you have a dental crown, be sure to avoid things like:

  • Opening bottle caps with your teeth
  • Chewing on your fingernails
  • Chewing on hard objects

Grinding your teeth is something else to watch out for. Even though this habit is often involuntary, this, too, can cause damage to your new crown. If you suspect that you are grinding your teeth at night, be sure to talk to a dentist about a nightguard you can wear while you are sleeping.

Talk to a St. Cloud Dentist About Dental Crowns

When properly taken care of, a dental crown can give you a more attractive smile for many years. If you would like to speak to a St. Cloud, MN dentist about a dental crown, reach out to us at Friesz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry to schedule an appointment.