bright smile

HELP! I have a DENTAL EMERGENCY, What Do I Do?

Different scenarios call for different action in a dental emergency. It is important to see your dentist ASAP; however, we know that this is not always possible. Here are some tips to help you in the event you or a loved one is in a dental emergency and unable to get right into a dental office. TOOTHACHE Rinse your mouth vigorously with warm water Use floss to remove any food particles stuck between the teeth. If there happens to be swelling present then apply cold pressure on the outside of the cheek Do no place aspirin on the aching teeth … Read more

3 Quick Tips to Improve Your Dental Health

Invest in a Good Electric Toothbrush A good electric toothbrush will immediately improve your dental health. While at the store you will likely be able to tell which electric toothbrushes are superior. Look for brands “Sonicare” and “Oral-B” when in the dental aisle. They will cost more but they will do a much better job and last you longer. Your dentist may even have already slipped you a coupon for $10 off one of these at a recent check-up. The key to these is that they are guaranteed to improve your brushing and oral health. And they will do this … Read more

4 Ways to Close Gaps Between Teeth

Often patients come to the office asking to have the spaces in between their teeth closed. Many relate that they do not want to go through metal braces while others specifically ask for them. In dentistry it is helpful that we have many options for patients with different needs. At your free consultation with Dr. Cirka and Dr. Meier they will detail your options and help you figure out the best one to choose. Below are 4 ways that we are able to close the gaps in your teeth: Bonding Bonding is a process in which we use a composite … Read more

DIY Whitening- Risks You Need to Know Right Now

Do-It-Yourself, “DIY”, is all the craze nowadays. Most folks are trying things they never would have dreamed about in efforts to save money. There are a multitude of different remedies at home in order to whiten their teeth that have been shared both via word of mouth and on the internet. While some of these may be effective, many can be dangerous. These methods range from homespun mouthwashes, to make-your-own toothpastes, to ordering different concoctions online, and more. We have heard just about it all. While some of the home remedies may offer a quick result, there can be lasting … Read more

The Most Common Disease Among Children- How Are We fighting it?

Dental caries (cavities) is the most common disease in children 6-11 years old and adolescents 12-19 years old. This disease is largely preventable, yet it remains more common than asthma among adolescents. Tooth decay has significant consequences. Children with severe dental problems can have trouble eating and sleeping, paying attention to parents and concentrating in school. To combat this major public health epidemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has implemented fluoridation of community water supplies. This has been ongoing for more than 60 years now and research has proved that fluoridation of the community water is not … Read more

Are Dental Implants the Right Solution for Me?

If you are missing teeth, one of the best options for replacing them today is with dental implants. A dental implant is a “man-made root” that is placed into the jaw bone and sits where the roots of the tooth normally would. Yes, it may sound strange or even painful; however, the jaw bone has less nerve endings than the tooth itself and we find patients normally experience much less sensitivity than they expect. Dental implants are a great way to replace teeth because they provide a long-term solution and can last a lifetime. Based on your health history, you … Read more

7 Foods Healthy for Your Teeth

  Nutrition is key when it comes to the health of your teeth. If your diet is full of sugary and acidic foods then you bet your teeth will be full of cavities. On the other hand if you are eating foods rich in certain nutrients you can protect your teeth and gums from harmful bacteria. Here are seven foods that you should be eating that can help you keep your teeth strong and healthy: Carrots Carrots are great because they are full of fiber and vitamin A. If you eat a few raw carrots after a meal it will … Read more

8 Reasons You Need Invisalign Right Now

Why get Invisalign? Straightening the teeth has a lot of benefits besides cosmetics. The straighter the teeth are, the healthier the mouth is. This is true for young patients as well as adults. In the past, traditional metal bracket braces were needed to straighten teeth. Now dentists are very successful in treating patients with clear aligner therapy to correct malocclusion (a bad bite). Malocclusion can come in many forms and cause various problems for people. It is important to have your dentist and hygienist evaluate your bite and determine whether you would benefit from alignment of your teeth. Clear aligner therapy is done … Read more

5 Ways Your Dentist Can Help You Look Younger

A big secret to how to look younger is in your teeth. Looking beautiful is often associated with looking younger and the teeth play a big part in this. Studies show that a smile is the first thing people notice about you. Working with your dentist to either preserve your natural teeth or enhance them is a great place to start in looking younger and being healthier. Prevention is an important part in staying healthy. It is important to brush twice daily, floss daily, and see your dentist regularly for a checkup and cleaning. While prevention is a key role, it … Read more

5 Ways to Prevent Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is when bacteria have invaded the gum tissue and it is not healthy. Often patients are unaware that they are suffering from gum disease unless they are told by a dentist. There are two main categories that the stages of gum disease are broken into: In dentistry, “gum disease” or “periodontal disease” are general terms used to describe when gum or gingiva tissue is in an unhealthy state. There are two key classifications that gum disease can be broken into: Gingivitis When still in the early stages, periodontal disease is known as gingivitis. At this … Read more