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TEETH CLEANING FAQ: A Comprehensive Guide to Professional Teeth Cleaning

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TEETH CLEANING FAQ: A Comprehensive Guide to Professional Teeth Cleaning

Posted on: August 16th, 2023 by admin

Anyone who has ever looked into the mirror and thought “I really need to take better care of my teeth” knows how important teeth cleaning can be. Professional teeth cleaning is a great way to make sure your pearly whites stay healthy and shining! In this comprehensive guide to professional teeth cleaning, we’ll answer all your questions, including what professional teeth cleaning comprises, why it’s beneficial, what to expect from the process, and much more.

Professional teeth cleaning can refer to a variety of different procedures, all aimed at improving the health of your teeth and gums. The most common procedure is called scaling, where a dental hygienist uses an ultrasonic scaler or manual tools to clean away plaque and tartar buildup on and around the surface of your teeth. This helps reduce gum inflammation, an important factor in preventing gum disease.

Another common procedure is root planing, which helps to smooth the surface of the root of the tooth and prevent further bacterial buildup. This helps protect against deep pockets forming between your teeth and gums, which can lead to serious oral health problems.

In addition to scaling and root planing, professional teeth cleaning may also involve polishing and fluoride treatments. Polishing helps to get rid of any staining on the surface of your teeth, leaving you with a brighter smile. Fluoride treatments help re-mineralize your teeth, providing them with an extra layer of protection against decay.

Professional teeth cleaning is beneficial as it allows for deeper, more effective cleaning than what can be done at home. It also helps to remove tartar and plaque buildup, which can contribute to gum disease if left unchecked. Regular professional teeth cleaning is recommended every six months in order to keep your teeth healthy and your smile looking its best.

When you go for a professional teeth cleaning, the dentist or hygienist will begin by taking pictures of your teeth to assess any areas that may need extra attention. Then, they will use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. Finally, they may provide you with a fluoride treatment or polishing to finish the job.

Your dentist or hygienist can answer any questions you have about professional teeth cleaning and help you make sure it is right for you. So make sure to talk to them before getting started!

It’s time to toss your old toothbrush!

Posted on: August 2nd, 2023 by admin

Take a look at your toothbrush. It is a familiar part of your daily routine, something you see early every morning (or at least we hope so) and just  before bed every night (ditto). Your toothbrush is your friend

But the fact of the matter is, that toothbrush is probably due for replacing.

If you’re like a lot of people, you probably brush your teeth a little more energetically that you need to. With time, the brush’s bristles will begin to fray, looking like a used broom or paintbrush. The bristles may even be a touch off-white now, too. Those are all sure signs that it’s time to replace your brush with a new one.

And trust us, you don’t want to use a toothbrush that is past its useful life. If you do, it just won’t do the job that it’s designed to do.

Toothbrush picture Barnegat Manahawkin Dental Office

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If you brush your teeth the way we’ve taught you here at Bayside Dentistry, a dentist serving Manahawkin, Forked River, Barnegat and all of Ocean County, the signs might not be as obvious. They may not jump out at you, but small changes in your toothbrush will make it less effective in doing its job. They include:

  • Slight curve/slant to the bristles – This can happen after using it over a long stretch of time. Though it can often be barely noticeable, this can prevent the bristles from reaching around the gum line and between your teeth.
  • Loss of elasticity – Modern toothbrush bristles are made to be elastic and bendable. This is to allow the brush to provide the gentle sweeping movement necessary for the most effective brushing. As the bristles’ elasticity wears down, your brushing becomes less effective.
  • Harboring bacteria – No matter how clean you keep your brush and its holder, over time bacteria will begin to make a home there. This makes fighting plaque and germs even harder.

A good rule of thumb is to replace your toothbrush every three to four months. If you are seeing the family here at Bayside regularly, you already know that having a new, fresh toothbrush is essential to your oral health. Some things we recommend to ensure it lasts a long while include:

  • Air dry it; do not store it in a closed container. This helps prevent bacteria growth
  • Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after each use. This keeps the bristles flexible
  • Don’t share your toothbrush with others! The reasons why should be obvious
  • Brush firmly but gently. Many people brush too hard, wearing out their brush faster
  • Replace it every 3-4 months

Doing what you can to make sure your toothbrush is well taken care of is one of the easiest things you can do to be sure you have good oral health. Doing so will guarantee that every time you brush, your teeth they are as clean as can be, your breath is fresh, and your future trips to Bayside will be as smooth as possible.

And let’s be honest, isn’t the whole reason you visit us here at Bayside in the first place to have healthy teeth? We serve Manahawkin, Lacey / Forked River, Barnegat, and all of Ocean County!

Here’s how to get over your fear of the dentist

Posted on: July 26th, 2023 by admin

Dentist appointments are never at the top of anyone’s list of fun things to do, but they are a necessary part of maintaining your oral health. If you’re struggling with a fear of the dentist, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Millions of people around the world feel the same way. In this article, we will discuss some easy ways to get over your fear and make your next dentist appointment a breeze!

One of the best ways to get over your fear of the dentist is to educate yourself on what exactly happens during a dental appointment. Many people feel anxious about going to the dentist because they don’t know what to expect. If you take the time to learn about the different procedures that your dentist may perform, you will feel more comfortable and confident when it comes time for your appointment. And remember, Dental office procedures these days are now easier and more painless than ever before.

Another great way to ease your fears is to find a dentist that you trust and feel comfortable with. When you have a good relationship with your dentist, you will be more likely to relax and feel confident during your appointments. Be sure to communicate any concerns or questions that you have with your dentist so that they can help put your mind at ease.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re struggling with your fear of the dentist. If you have a friend or family member who is also afraid of the dentist, ask them to come with you to your appointment. Having someone there to support you can make a world of difference. You can also ask us to ease you through the process, too. We aim to make your visit to your favorite dentist near Manahawkin as smooth as possible!

If you follow these tips, you will be on your way to conquering your fear of the dentist in no time! Schedule an appointment today and see for yourself how easy it can be.

What Will I Experience During a Root Canal?

Posted on: July 19th, 2023 by admin

Are you dreading your upcoming appointment for a root canal? It’s understandable to feel anxious about what might happen during the procedure. However, knowledge is power, and understanding all aspects of a root canal can help ease your worries. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of the root canal process so you know exactly what to expect when you visit your favorite dentist near Forked River.

The root canal procedure starts with local anesthesia. This numbs the area around the tooth so that you won’t feel any discomfort during the procedure. The dentist will then create an opening in the top of your tooth to access the nerve chamber and pulp inside.

Once inside, they’ll use dental instruments to remove the infected or damaged tissue from within the tooth. The area will then be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to prevent any further infection.

Once the cleaning is complete, the dentist will fill the nerve chamber with a rubbery material called gutta percha. This seals off the inner parts of your tooth from bacteria and other debris. The dentist may also place a crown on top of your tooth for added protection.

The entire procedure typically takes between one and two hours to complete, depending on the complexity of your case. You may experience some mild discomfort after the procedure, but this should fade within a few days.

With proper care and regular dental check-ups, a root canal can provide relief from tooth pain for many years. If you have any questions or concerns about the root canal procedure, it’s best to ask your dentist before beginning treatment.

Here are some FAQ you may have:

How long does a root canal take?

A typical root canal procedure generally takes 1-2 hours to complete.

Is a root canal painful?

Most patients find that the anesthesia used during the procedure makes it painless. You may experience some mild discomfort after the procedure, but this should fade within a few days.

Can a root canal be reversed?

No, the procedure is considered permanent and cannot be reversed. However, if you experience any problems with your root canal later on, your dentist can often address the issue.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re struggling with some fear of the procedure. If you have a friend or family member who is willing, ask them to come with you to your appointment. Having someone there to support you can make a world of difference. You can also ask us to ease you through the process, too. We aim to make your visit to your favorite dentist near Manahawkin as smooth as possible!

If you follow these tips, you will be on your way to conquering your fear of the dentist in no time! Schedule an appointment today and see for yourself how easy it can be.

Teeth Whitening 101: Learn the Safe and Effective At-Home Methods

Posted on: July 5th, 2023 by admin

Do you want to get a brighter and whiter smile without going to the dentist? If so, then this article about teeth whitening is just what you need. Teeth whitening 101 covers everything from the basics of safe and effective at-home methods, to tips for avoiding potential pitfalls. We’ll go over the most popular products on the market, discuss how they work, and provide helpful advice for getting the best results. With this information in hand, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a more beautiful smile!

First, let’s discuss the various types of teeth whitening products available.

The most popular are bleaching strips and gels, toothpastes with special whitening ingredients, and at-home light-based devices. Bleaching strips contain a small amount of peroxide and work by adhering to your teeth for up to 30 minutes a day over several weeks. Gels are similar, but they require a bit more time and effort to apply; plus, most brands only contain around 3 percent peroxide, making them less effective than strips. Toothpastes with special whitening ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide work by scrubbing away surface stains and polishing the enamel. Finally, at-home light-based devices use a special light to penetrate the enamel and activate peroxide molecules.

No matter which product you choose, it’s important to read the directions carefully and follow them closely. It’s also important to note that over-the-counter products usually only offer temporary results; if you want a long-lasting solution, it’s best to visit your dentist for professional whitening.

Finally, it’s important to avoid certain practices that can harm your teeth and undo your hard work. For example, drinking coffee or other dark beverages can quickly stain your freshly-whitened teeth; try cutting back on them if possible. Additionally, smoking cigarettes or cigars will also cause discoloration over time. To keep your teeth as white as possible, make sure to brush twice a day and visit your dentist regularly for checkups. With these tips in mind you can keep your smile looking its best.

Of course, the best way to brighten your smile is with professional teeth whitening. The truth is that home remedies for whitening your teeth are not always the best option. Not only are they often ineffective, but they can also be very damaging to your teeth and gums. If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to Whiten your teeth, we recommend that you visit your dentist for a professional whitening treatment.

If you are looking for a safe and effective way to achieve brighter teeth, we recommend that you visit your dentist for professional teeth whitening. Professional teeth whitening is the only way to guarantee whiter teeth, and it’s also much safer for your overall oral health. Contact our dental office in Barnegat today to schedule an appointment!

What to do when you’ve lost a tooth

Posted on: June 28th, 2023 by admin

If you have lost a tooth, don’t panic! There are many things that your dentist in Manahawkin can do to replace it. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the options that are available to you. We will also provide some tips on how to care for your teeth while you are waiting for your new tooth to arrive.

If you have lost a tooth, the first thing that you should do is to contact your dentist. They will be able to help you determine what the best course of action is for your particular situation. If you have a dental insurance plan, they may also be able to help you with the cost of replacing your tooth. In some cases, your dentist may even be able to place the new tooth into your mouth for you.

If you are not able to see your dentist right away, there are still some things that you can do to replace your tooth. You can purchase a false tooth at most drug stores or online. These teeth are usually made of plastic and they snap into place over your existing teeth. They are not as realistic looking as a real tooth, but they can provide you with the necessary function while you are waiting for your new tooth to arrive.

The most important thing to remember if you have lost a tooth is to take care of your remaining teeth. Be sure to brush and floss regularly, and avoid eating sugary or sticky foods that can cause damage to your teeth. If you take good care of your teeth, you will be one step closer to getting your smile back.

Once you see your Manahawkin dentist, there are many options available to you. One option is to get a dental implant. This is a permanent solution that can give you back your smile. Another option is to get a denture or bridge. These options are not as permanent as an implant, but they can still give you the ability to eat and speak normally.

No matter which option you choose, it is important to take care of your teeth while you are waiting for your new tooth. Be sure to brush and floss regularly, and avoid eating hard or sticky foods. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to talk to your dentist. They will be able to help you through this process and make sure that you get the best possible results.

Thanks for reading! We hope that this blog post has been helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We are always happy to help!

These drinks will stain your teeth!

Posted on: June 21st, 2023 by admin

We know you want whiter teeth. We all do. The confidence that comes with having a nice smile is hard to overestimate.

Modern teeth whitening treatments can help you get the nice, white teeth you’ve always wanted, but if you hope to keep that bright smile you should avoid eating or drinking too much of this:

  • Coffee – We know this is bad news fore many of you! As much as many of us don’t like to hear it, coffee is one of the worst culprits when it comes to staining your teeth. It may be the morning go-to for half of America, but it’s also one of the worst things for our bright smiles.
  • Cola – This is something we all learned as kids: all the sugar in soda will rot your teeth. What they didn’t tell us is that cola can stain your teeth, too. The sugar, dye, coloring and other ingredients of cola means you’ll be seeking need teeth whitening if you are a regular soda drinker and you want to maintain a bright smile.

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/women-s-white-and-black-button-up-collared-shirt-774909/

  • Red Wine – Red wine has some health benefits when enjoyed in moderation, but it can also wreak havoc with your teeth. It’s no surprise that so many red wine fans end up seeking teeth whitening treatments. Years of the good stuff can be a fun part of your social life, but a bad part of your dental life.
  • Tea – Sorry, caffeine lovers, switching from coffee to tea does not change things in this regard. In fact, tea can be even more abrasive on your teeth than coffee. High in tannins and rather acidic, too much tea in your diet can be bad news for your teeth. The good news is, black tea is the primary culprit. Switching to green, white and herbal teas can help.
  • Tomato Sauce – Sorry, everyone, we love tomato sauce too, but that traditional red sauce has qualities that can contribute to stained teeth. The acidic nature of tomatoes along with with their deep red color means if you want a whiter smile, you may want to see your dentist in Southern Ocean County after long years of eating Italian food.
  • Blueberries – Blueberries are a part of a healthy diet. High in antioxidants, they’re some of the very best fruit to eat – except when it comes to your teeth. Blueberries are high in tooth-staining colors, which is why they have historically been used in dyes. Blackberries, raspberries and other dark berries have similar qualities, though blueberries are more potent than all of them. They’re good for you, so keep eating, just be sure to brush when you’re done!

All of this may seem like bad news, but it’s not. Most of the above food and drinks have good health qualities (though you should skip the cola!), and their staining effects can be reversed by modern teeth whitening treatments. Remember, consume them in moderation, practice good oral hygiene, and you can have a great smile your whole life long.

Bad Breath Be Gone: The 5 Most Common Causes and Solutions

Posted on: June 14th, 2023 by admin

Struggling with bad breath? If so, you are not alone. Bad breath (or “halitosis”) is a common problem that affects millions of people around the world. Fortunately, there are several potential causes of bad breath and specific solutions for each one. In this article, we explore the five most common causes of bad breath and how to eliminate them for good!

  1. Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/selective-focus-photo-of-brown-monkey-2213575/

    Poor Oral Hygiene: Poor oral hygiene is one of the most common causes of bad breath. This includes not brushing or flossing regularly, failing to scrape your tongue with a tongue scraper, and not using mouthwash regularly. To eliminate bad breath caused by poor oral hygiene, be sure to brush and floss twice daily, scrape your tongue once a day, and use an alcohol-free mouthwash at least once a day.

  2. Dry Mouth: Saliva is essential for keeping bacteria levels in your mouth low; when saliva production decreases due to dehydration or certain medications, this can cause an increase in bad breath. To overcome dry mouth, make sure you are properly hydrated throughout the day and consider using an artificial saliva product if needed.
  3. Food: Some foods, such as garlic and onions, can cause bad breath due to their strong scents. To eliminate bad breath caused by food, brush your teeth or chew sugar-free gum after eating these smelly foods. Additionally, avoid smoking cigarettes and consuming alcohol as these two habits can contribute to bad breath.
  4. Sinus Issues: Nasal and sinus issues can cause a buildup of mucus in the back of your throat, which can lead to bad breath. To eliminate bad breath caused by sinus issues, use saline nasal sprays or steam treatments to flush out the excess mucus and keep your nose and sinuses clear.
  5. Medical Conditions: Bad breath can also be a sign of underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or kidney and liver diseases. If you have persistent bad breath that won’t go away despite brushing and flossing regularly, visit your doctor to rule out any serious health issues.

 

By following these tips, you can eliminate bad breath for good and enjoy fresh-smelling breath all day long!

How to get the most out of your toothbrush

Posted on: May 24th, 2023 by admin

Never forget: your toothbrush is your most important tool when it comes to maintaining a healthy mouth and a bright, clean smile. Everyone at your dentist office near Forked River will confirm this.

With that in mind, it goes without saying that you have to take good care of your toothbrush in order to be sure your toothbrush takes good care of you. Any dentist near Manahawkin has likely seen countless toothbrushes that after many years of use now look like a complete mess rather than the well-designed cleaning tool they are meant to be.

That’s not good, because brushes that are in bad shape don’t do as good a job of keeping your mouth clean and healthy and helping you maintain good oral hygiene.

And you do want good oral hygiene! That’s the reason why you visit Ocean County dentists, after all – in order to have a healthier mouth!

In order to avoid your toothbrush becoming a mess that does more harm than good, follow these simple tips:

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Never share your toothbrush – Your mouth is loaded with bacteria of all types, and brushing can sometimes lead to minor bleeding, usually so minor you can’t even see it. Even a little is enough to help aid the transmission of bacteria from one mouth to another, though, and that’s not a good thing. Remember, your toothbrush is for you and you only. And never use someone else’s and don’t let other people use yours!

Always rinse the brush after you’re done – Residue left behind by toothpaste or your mouth can make your toothbrush a breeding ground for bacteria, plus it can also accelerate the breakdown of your brush’s bristles. Just like your mouth, it’s important to keep your brush clean!

To combat microorganism growth, don’t store your brush in a closed container – Those closed containers are like breeding grounds for bacterial growth. They can be GROSS! It’s fine to use them for a day or so when traveling, but you should never store your toothbrush in a closed container for longer than that. If you do, you’ll actually be making your mouth LESS healthy.

Replace your brush every few months – Modern brushes are tough and resilient, but regardless, you should replace them every few months in order to be sure they are doing the best job possible of keeping your teeth clean. A new brush is much more effective than an old one.

Let the bristles do the work – Aggressive brushing is not only bad for your tooth enamel, it’s bad for your toothbrush, too. It can ruin your bristles and impact the lifespan of your brush. Instead, brush gently and let the bristles do their job. It’s what they are designed for!

Always keep in mind that your toothbrush is an important tool in your regular oral health routine. Treat it badly and it will treat your mouth badly in return. Treat it right and it will treat your mouth right – and that will make your dentist near Manahawkin very happy!

Don’t Panic! Here’s What to Do if You Chip a Tooth

Posted on: May 3rd, 2023 by admin

It’s an unfortunate side effect of life, but chipping a tooth is something we all have to deal with at times. Whether you or your child has experienced a minor mishap resulting in a broken or chipped tooth, don’t panic! This article will walk you through the steps of what to do when this unfortunate situation occurs. We’ll discuss what actions are recommended and how to ensure that your smile gets back to its original state as soon as possible.

First, it’s important to assess the damage. Are there any large pieces missing or is the chip small and contained? Is the fracture a simple surface fracture or one that has penetrated deeper into the tooth? While you can’t tell for certain just how deep it goes, it’s important to note how long it is and how much has been chipped away.

Next, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. This will help prevent infection as well as reduce any swelling or pain. Take pain relief medication if necessary and avoid chewing with that tooth until you can get it fixed.

The best thing to do next is to contact a dentist as soon as possible. They are trained to handle situations like this and will be able to provide you with the best course of action. The dentist may be able to repair the tooth in one appointment, or they may need to place a temporary crown over it while they perform further repairs.

If you’re unable to get to your dentist near Forked River right away, there are a few things you can do to protect the tooth in the meantime. Avoid eating hard foods or anything that could cause further damage. You may also be able to apply a DIY dental repair kit with resin and other materials that can help build up the surface of your chipped tooth until you can get it fixed professionally.

By following these steps, you can be sure that your smile is taken care of and will soon look as good as new! Be sure to contact a trusted and knowledgeable dentist with any questions or concerns you may have. They will be able to help you restore your tooth to its original condition in no time. Good luck!