If you’ve ever wondered what kind of toothpaste to use or how often to floss your teeth, you’re not alone. Many of the patients we see at Clínica Miravéco have similar questions about their dental health. These questions are great and we’d like to share some of them with you so that you too can be better informed about your overall oral health.
Why do my gums bleed?
Sometimes some mouths are more prone to plaque buildup because they have restorations such as fillings, crowns or bridges that can retain plaque. Poorly contoured restorations and crowded teeth make it difficult to clean the teeth, which leads to the accumulation of bacterial plaque. That is why it is important to perform dental hygiene every year to remove plaque build-up and to be checked by your dentist as a preventive measure.
Bleeding gums are also common during pregnancy, as hormonal changes often cause gum sensitivity. Be sure to visit your dentist regularly during pregnancy, as proper oral health helps ensure your oral health in the face of pregnancy changes and the health of your baby.
Why do I have tartar and tartar buildup?
Even if you brush and floss your teeth daily, there is a chance that calculus and tartar can form. Calculus is hardened bacterial plaque.
This is why some patients have tartar buildup along the back of the anterior (front) teeth. Therefore, even if you brush and floss your teeth, your saliva may have certain properties that can result in more calculus and tartar than in a typical mouth. Talk to your dentist to learn more about your specific case.
What are my cosmetic dentistry options?
Cosmetic dentistry options are varied, with teeth whitening being the most popular. In-office whitening treatment provides faster, more predictable whitening. At-home teeth whitening treatment is an easy and practical option, although it is advisable to have the stains and enamel color evaluated by the hygienist in order to know what degree of whitening will be achieved.
However, it is important to take care of any necessary restorative care before considering any whitening treatment. For example, if a patient has a lot of decay, whitening will not be applied because the acidity of the whitening agents will likely aggravate the decay and cause sensitivity. In addition, decayed teeth are often discolored, and restorations will improve the overall appearance of the decayed tooth.
For those with chipped or stained teeth, dental veneers are a good option. These are thin layers of custom sculpted composite that fit over the front of the teeth and create the appearance of whiter, straighter teeth.
What type of toothpaste should I use?
You should choose the toothpaste that will help you the most depending on your mouth. For example, if you are very prone to cavities, I would recommend that you use a toothpaste with fluoride (although in the holistic box they will offer you non-fluoridated alternatives). If you have sensitive teeth, use a toothpaste specifically for that case. Your dentist or hygienist can help you find the toothpaste with the properties that will benefit you the most.
Does whitening toothpaste work?
Whitening toothpastes have limited whitening capabilities. They usually remove only the most superficial stains and can sometimes be made with abrasive materials that are aggressive to the enamel. Whitening trays or in-office whitening procedures are the fastest, most effective and safest way to whiten teeth. Be sure to check with your dentist which option is best for you before starting any whitening treatment.
