Why Choose Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a convenient, cost-effective alternative to more temporary treatments such as dental bridges and partial or full dentures. Unlike partial or full dentures, there’s no equipment that needs to be taken out and cleaned separately. Permanently affixed in your jaw, dental implants require only standard routine dental care to maintain a bright, natural looking smile.

When it comes to everyday activities like eating and speaking, dental implants provide the comfort and confidence you need in daily interactions with others. Dental bridges and dentures can cause discomfort and require extra care and maintenance, which is not the case with dental implants.

Dental Implant Evaluation

Dr. Dale Nelson, a dentist in Vancouver WA, and his team at Salmon Creek Family Dental can help you decide if dental implants are right for you through a brief evaluation. Factors that effect whether or not dental implants can work for you include:

• the health of your jaw bone to place the implant “roots”
• your overall health, including diabetes and other conditions that may effect healing after the procedure
• the use of tobacco, which threatens dental health
• the presence of periodontal disease that requires treatment before implants can be placed
• current medications that may effect healing

These factors are taken into account along with your general dental health, including brushing and flossing habits. Because dental implants are similar to natural teeth, a regular brushing and flossing regimen is necessary to maintain to ensure the health of gum tissue and jaw bone after the dental implant procedure.

Dental Implants: A Good Fit?

After education and discussion, Dr. Nelson can advise you personally whether or not dental implants are a good treatment option for your dental health. The first step is to schedule an appointment at Salmon Creek Family Dental in order to be evaluated.

In addition, Dr. Nelson will need important information from you, including a complete medical and dental history and current dental x-rays in order to determine your eligibility for dental implants. Then Dr. Nelson will sit down with you and explain your options in language that’s easy to understand.

Don’t let missing teeth detract from your quality of life – dental implants can help you maintain the confidence and convenience that you desire in good dental health!

Greens and Vegetables

Vegetables that are juicy and leafy are some of the best foods for your teeth. Cabbage, chard,  and collard greens are all great choices for your teeth. Each is loaded with vitamins and minerals that are necessary to help you maintain and improve your oral health. The nutrients found in dark leafy vegetables like spinach and lettuce contain high amounts of magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin C, beta carotene, calcium and magnesium. Because phosphorous is stored in the teeth (your bones), these minerals are instrumental in helping your body maintain balance.

Carrots

Munching on carrots and celery is a great way to keep your teeth healthy. When you chew foods that are crunchy and high in fiber, your mouth has to work overtime which stimulates the gums. Healthy gums are an important factor in oral care because they can keep your teeth healthy. These foods have beta-carotene in them, which your body needs to create vitamin A.

Citrus

Citrus fruits are extremely good for your oral health, because they have a large amount of vitamin C. Chewing fiber-rich, fresh fruits massages your gums, helps clean your teeth and increases salivation, which can neutralize the citric and malic acids that citrus fruits may leave in your mouth. Our favorite fruit choices are oranges, pears, and watermelons.

Apples

You know that eating an apple a day can keep the doctor away – this includes the dentist too. Apples, which we like to call nature’s toothbrush, are a good snack because they are fibrous. Eating an apple can help clean your teeth until you brush and floss. Avoid apple juices because of the added sugar which can cause tooth decay, but enjoying a fresh apple can stimulate your gums and reduce cavity- causing bacteria to build up in your mouth.

People who eat more fruits and vegetables usually have better smiles. When you eat well, you feel good and when you feel good you look good.  These foods that will keep you smiling until your next dentist visit at Salmon Creek Family Dental.

Who Suffers With Dental Anxiety?

The short answer: a lot of people. The American Association of Endodontists conducted a survey that showed that as many as 80% of adult Americans fear going to the dentist, and more than half indicated that this fear keeps them from going to the dentist for regular care. Women and children generally report a greater chance of fear and avoidance than men and the elderly. Invasive treatments, such as root canals or oral surgery, top the list of fears as opposed to less invasive procedures like dental cleanings and x-rays.

Causes of Dental Anxiety

There are many reasons that people fear going to the dentist, even when they’re in discomfort or pain. Some of these factors include:

• Embarrassment regarding the condition of their teeth
• Past traumatic experiences
• History of childhood abuse
• Fear of pain
• Feeling a loss of control
• Past extensive or costly treatment

No matter the reason, Dr. Nelson strives to provide the best dental care in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere. From your very first visit, Dr. Nelson listens to your concerns and addresses any questions you might have, providing what you need to enjoy your dental visit.

Not Just Dental Problems

Those who struggle with dental anxiety experience more than increased risk for unnecessary dental pain or problems. Avoiding the dentist for regular exams and cleanings can lead to more severe dental problems that cost more money to correct in the long-run. These situations can also include emergency care, which can also cost more than consistent dental care.

Emotional and health issues can accompany dental anxiety. The higher levels of stress experienced can lead to feelings of self-consciousness, depression, insecurity and low self-esteem. In addition, gum disease and tooth loss, which are experienced by those who struggle with dental anxiety, can lead to larger physical problems like heart disease, diabetes and stroke.

How to Deal with Dental Anxiety

There are many ways to deal with Dental Anxiety, and Dr. Nelson and the compassionate staff at Salmon Creek Family Dental are more than willing to help.

First, share your feelings and fears with us. There are many ways that we can adapt necessary treatment to meet your needs.

Second, make and keep regular dental appointments. These will help you take the best care of your teeth without having to experience a great degree of discomfort and pain. Potential problem areas can be caught and treated early.

Third, before these appointments, eat calming, high-protein foods, avoiding caffeine and sugar. Relax using deep-breathing techniques and take advantage of the amenities we offer to provide a distraction through your appointment.

Last, consider one of our many sedation techniques to help you through your treatment. These include:

• Oral Sedation – administered in pill form, this type of sedation allows you to remain conscious but feel relaxed and even sleepy during your treatment.
• Nitrous Oxide Sedation – nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” is inhaled through the nose, allowing you to relax but still respond consciously during treatment.
• Intravenous (IV) Sedation – this method is administered through an injection and is immediately effective. Patients using IV sedation feel as if they slept through the procedure
• Deep Sedation – Administered intravenously or through general anesthesia, this method of dental sedation is appropriate ideal for extremely phobic patients, those with significant medical conditions, and long and complex surgical dental procedures.

Regardless of your level of anxiety, Dr. Nelson and his staff at Salmon Creek Family Dental will do whatever they can to make you as comfortable as possible during your dental treatment.

Good Basic Oral Hygiene

One of the best ways to fight bad breath is through good basic oral habits. The food particles remaining in our mouths after eating basically rot in our mouths when not brushed or flossed away. Bacteria also uses these particles to form plaque, the sticky, yellow coating that gathers on the surfaces and in between teeth. This process leads to bad breath. Brushing and flossing regularly, along with regular dental visits, can keep your mouth clean and smelling fresh.

Mouthwash

Brushing and flossing after every meal is ideal, but not necessarily realistic. Although it shouldn’t be used solely to replace brushing and flossing, rinsing with mouthwash after a meal can help clean out food particles and cut down on harmful bacteria. If there’s no mouthwash available, rinse out your mouth thoroughly with water.

Smart Eating Habits

Eating well helps keep our smiles healthy and strong. A diet rich in Vitamin C helps prevent gum disease and gingivitis. Foods like berries, melons and citrus fruits instead of supplements are best. Also, crunchy foods like apples, carrots and celery clean teeth naturally. Avoid sugary foods that stick to your teeth, as well as onions and garlic – these continue to cause bad breath while they’re digesting.

Fresh Herbs

Herbs are easy to grow and maintain, and a wide variety help fight bad breath. Choose from spearmint, eucalyptus, cardamom, rosemary, tarragon, and coriander, and chew on them after meals or throughout the day. If you prefer, soak the herbs in hot water as a tea!

Stay Fresh

Although brushing and flossing are ideal, there are simple steps to help keep breath fresh during the day. Drink plenty of water, rinsing your mouth out after meals. Although they tend to mask bad breath instead of helping to eradicate it, gum and mints are helpful in a pinch, as long as they’re sugarless.

Fighting bad breath can be done easily using these simple strategies.

Dr. Nelson and the friendly, knowledgeable staff at Salmon Creek Family Dental believe that It’s never too late to start flossing your teeth. And, like brushing, flossing your teeth is just as important for good dental health.
These tips will help you make flossing your teeth a part of your regular routine.

Floss To Use

There are many different kinds of floss, and the specific one that you choose depends on your teeth. If your teeth have rough edges, you’ll want floss that resists shredding. If your teeth are tightly set together, you’ll want one that easily fits in between them.

Other considerations for floss include flavored versus not flavored, waxed versus unwaxed, and the material that the floss is made from. You may have to try a few different kinds of floss before you find one that you prefer – feel free to ask your hygienist which one he or she recommends..

Flossing Basics

Flossing is easier than you might think. First, grab a length of floss and wrap the ends around each of your index fingers a few times. This will allow a short, stable section of floss to use in between your teeth.

Starting with your front teeth, gently work that segment of floss in the spaces between, gently working it through any narrow or tight spots. Wrap the floss around the edge of each tooth, carefully scraping the edge as well as the base of each tooth and the space between it and your gumline. Start slowly at first, taking plenty of time to floss your teeth.

Careful Flossing

The point of flossing isn’t to harm but to help. The pressure you use while flossing needs to be firm but not extreme. When moving the floss up and down between teeth, don’t press so hard that you cause injury to your gum.

Use as much floss as you need in order to clean your teeth. It may take a few tries using floss to remove food particles. Make sure to use clean sections of floss as you floss one tooth to avoid spreading bacteria.

General Tips for Flossing Your Teeth

• Choose a time to floss that works for you. Maybe your morning routine as you get ready for work will help you remember to floss, or perhaps evening works better.
• Floss on-the-go. Purchase floss picks from the local grocery or drug store and stash them in your purse or your care for easy access. They’ll be there when you get food stuck in between your teeth and they’ll also help remind you to floss!
• Talk with your Dr. Nelson or your hygienist at Salmon Creek Family Dental. If it’s difficult to floss or you don’t feel confident, ask your dental hygienist to give you a lesson – they’ll be thrilled that you asked!

Brushing your teeth seems pretty easy, but you may not be getting the benefits of brushing your teeth regularly if it’s not done correctly. Dr. Nelson and his staff at Salmon Creek Family Dental are happy to teach you the best way to brush your teeth.

Choose the Best Toothbrush

There are several brands with different styles of toothbrushes, but how do you know which one is best for you?

You receive a complimentary toothbrush for your needs at the end of each teeth cleaning appointment, and this toothbrush should fit comfortably in your hand. Handles differ in size and shape, so choose one that fits comfortably and isn’t too heavy or light.

Your toothbrush should also fit comfortably in your mouth. Your mouth and teeth may be bigger or smaller depending upon your frame. Ideally, the toothbrush should be able to reach your teeth at the very back of your mouth to keep them healthy and clean. If in doubt, choose a smaller toothbrush versus a larger one – a dental hygienist at Salmon Creek Family Dental can help you decide.

Bristles are Important

Plaque is difficult to remove, and it may seem like the tougher the bristles, the better they will clean your teeth. However, the toothbrush bristles should be soft or extra soft to avoid harming your gum tissue.

These bristles need to to reach inside the spaces between your teeth and gums to remove plaque and bacteria. Hold the brush at a forty-five degree angle instead of perpendicular to your teeth, with the bristles directed at those spaces in order to remove as much plaque and bacteria as possible.

Gently Brushing Your Teeth

The motions you use to brush your teeth should be soft, just like the bristles of the toothbrush. Use short strokes back and forth or in a circular motion to avoid hurting your gums but removing as much plaque as possible.
Be sure to brush every surface of each tooth thoroughly, including the top, bottom, outsides and insides of your teeth. Spend time brushing the back of your teeth, cleaning the grooves along the top of each tooth where food can get stuck.

The strategies and products provided by Dr. Nelson and the friendly staff at Salmon Creek Family Dental will ensure that you are cleaning your teeth well each time you brush!

Step One: A Well-Balanced Diet

It’s essential to remember that everything you eat has an effect on your teeth. What’s generally bad for your overall health is also bad for your teeth.

For example, foods that are high in refined sugar aid the growth of the bacteria that produce plaque. This sticky, yellow substance spreads onto the surfaces of our teeth as well as those hard-to-reach areas, producing cavities, stains and tooth decay.

Healthier foods tend not to stick to teeth, and crunchy foods – like fruits and vegetables – naturally help clean teeth while you eat. Don’t forget to factor in the effects of beverages as well – avoid those high in sugar, like sodas and juices. Stick with milk or water to avoid tooth decay and help keep your teeth healthy!

Step Two: Brush

It’s important to not only brush every day – twice a day – but to brush correctly to remove as much plaque as possible from the surfaces of your teeth. Even though you’re brushing regularly, you may not be getting the most out of this daily habit. As Dr. Nelson and your hygienist about the best toothbrush and toothpaste for your needs, and request a short lesson on the best way to brush your teeth at home.

Step Three: Floss

is flossing your teeth regularly as important as brushing them? A daily routine of flossing your teeth can have many benefits, even if you’re just starting out. Effectively flossing your teeth removes plaque and bacteria that gathers between teeth. If you’re not sure how to best floss your teeth, ask Dr. Nelson for some simple tips.

Step Four: Quit Tobacco Use

Regardless of whether or not you’re using smokeless tobacco or smoking cigarettes, you’re at a risk of oral cancer while using tobacco products. In addition, using tobacco products increases the chance of other dental problems, such as gingivitis, periodontitis and tooth decay as well as bad breath and stained teeth. Seek out a cessation program to eliminate these products from your daily life and improve the health of your teeth.

Step Five: Visit Your Dentist Regularly

The standard recommendation is to visit your dentist office twice a year. This is a great guideline, but you may need more frequent visits depending on your specific situation. Talk with Dr. Nelson regarding issues like swollen gums, discolored teeth, oral cancer screening, frequent cavities, and any previous dental work you’ve had done. Working together, you and the entire staff at Salmon Creek Family Dental will figure out a schedule that’s right for you.

What is the Purpose of a Filling?

A filling is required when there’s evidence of tooth decay, also known as the development of cavities on the surface of your teeth. Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that, when exposed to sugar, create acid that attacks teeth. Enamel breaks down, creating a hole that is called a cavity. Fillings are materials placed in teeth to stop the progress of tooth decay and protect them for future use.

What Are Amalgam Fillings?

Amalgam has been used for over 100 years in tooth fillings, and is recognized as a standard material in dental procedures. The word “amalgam” comes from amalgamation, which means “mixture.” These fillings include a combination of different metals, including copper, silver, and mercury.

Why Mercury-Free Fillings?

Dr. Nelson and Salmon Creek Family Dental use amalgam-free fillings. The presence of mercury in amalgam fillings has caused controversy in recent years. Mercury is a known toxin, and there has been concern among scientists and dental professionals that mercury is released from these metal fillings when they’re placed and when we use our teeth to chew.

With advances in dental technology, amalgam is no longer required for most procedures as it has been used in the past. Instead of amalgam, substitutions made from porcelain or similar composites are used that look and wear like regular teeth – and don’t contain mercury.

Should Amalgam Fillings Be Replaced?

If you currently have a metal filling, it needs to be regularly evaluated by Dr. Nelson – if it still functions well, it should be left alone. However, if it needs to be replaced, consider talking with Dr. Nelson about alternatives to amalgam fillings.

Avoiding Future Fillings

There has been a recent decrease in the use of amalgam, due to the increase of alternative materials for fillings as well as a decrease in the presence of cavities. Avoiding future fillings, however, has a lot to do with a solid daily oral hygiene routine. A balanced diet, brushing your teeth twice a day, and flossing once a day can go a long way toward keeping teeth healthy, strong and free of fillings!

Daily Dental Habits

Consistent good dental habits go a long way toward maintaining whiter teeth. Snacks and meals high in sugar and carbohydrates encourage bacteria that produce acid that harm our teeth. Avoid these kinds of foods, opting instead for fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meat.

Follow each meal if possible with a thorough brushing, holding your toothbrush at a forty-five degree angle to clean the gumline. Brushing your teeth after breakfast and dinner may be the most convenient – if brushing after lunch isn’t possible, rinse well with water. Floss at least once a day to clean out food particles from between teeth.

Teeth Whitening at Home

If your teeth have lost their luster, it may be time to whiten them. Teeth whitening is basically applying a bleaching agent to the surfaces of your teeth. The best equation for whiter teeth is consistent use over a long period of time to produce the results you want.

If you want to spend less than $100, there are many teeth whitening agents available in retail stores. These options range from strips that adhere to your teeth as well as non-customized mouth trays filled with a bleaching agent. These teeth whiteners are safe to use at home and don’t require a dentist’s supervision. They also require more consistent use and a longer amount of time to work. To get the most from these less expensive options, follow the directions carefully.

Professional Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening that’s done by your Dr. Nelson at Salmon Creek Family Dental is the fastest, easiest and most convenient way to whiten your teeth. Using professional equipment, Dr. Nelson can help whiten your teeth up to ten shades in about an hour. While more expensive, this is the most effective way to whiten teeth.

A less expensive option involves customized mouth trays and the supervision of Dr. Nelson and his staff at Salmon Creek Family Dental. In a little over a week, your teeth could be up to ten shades whiter using these materials provided by Dr. Nelson. Many dental professionals offer these teeth-whitening kits for free for new patients, which may be worth your time and effort.

No matter which option you choose, the reward will be a smile that’s healthy, white and bright!