8 Ways Your Sleep and Oral Health Are Connected

Getting a restful night’s sleep is essential for waking up refreshed. However, it also plays a critical role in many aspects of health, including the condition of your teeth and gums. Whether you recognize it or not, several nighttime behaviors and sleep disorders can silently affect your mouth. In this blog, you’ll find out how your oral health and sleep are interconnected. 

1. Gum Inflammation Increases with Poor Sleep

When your body does not get the rest it needs, it increases the inflammation levels. Chronic inflammation is often linked to gum disease, which affects the tissues supporting your teeth. If you have a poor sleeping pattern, you are more vulnerable to oral bleeding, receding gums,  or tooth loss.

2. Teeth Grinding Causes Wear and Tear

Bruxism, or grinding or clenching teeth at night, stems from stress or poor-quality rest. This habit wears down the enamel, leading to sensitivity, chips, and jaw pain. It can also strain your bite and increase the risk of denture fractures.

3. Saliva Reduction Contributes to Dry Mouth

Adequate rest during the nighttime helps regulate saliva production. Saliva is your mouth’s natural defense against bacteria and acids that can damage enamel. Reduced saliva flow can cause dry mouth, which may lead to increased plaque, tooth decay, and persistent bad breath.

4. Sleep Apnea and Interrupted Breathing

Obstructive sleep apnea is a common disorder that affects breathing during the night. It can lead to multiple awakenings, fatigue, and oxygen deprivation. What many do not realize is that this condition also has oral consequences. Mouth breathing is common in individuals dealing with airway blockage. If you are suffering from this condition, it can dry out oral tissues and cause cavities and infections. To prevent these complications, it’s better to receive appropriate treatment from a dentist in Reno, NV

5. Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorders

Problems with the jaw joint, often referred to as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, can interfere with your sleep cycle. People experiencing this issue may experience jaw clicking, muscle pain, or tension that worsens when lying down. TMJ can make it difficult to fall or stay asleep comfortably and can result in several oral health complications.

6. Mouth Breathing Can Damage Your Teeth

Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose while sleeping is a subtle but damaging habit. It exposes teeth to more air, dries up saliva, and creates a more favorable environment for harmful bacteria to grow. This can cause enamel deterioration and cavities.

7. Slower Healing After Dental Procedures

When your body is sleep-deprived, it does not recover as efficiently. After dental treatments such as extractions, gum therapy, or cleanings, a good night’s rest is essential for proper tissue repair. Consistent rest supports the body’s natural ability to heal and resist infections.

8. Sleep Issues Diagnosed During Dental Appointments

During routine visits, your dental practitioner may use various techniques to diagnose signs of sleep issues. This includes enamel erosion, jaw tension, or symptoms of dry mouth. These subtle clues can indicate underlying problems that are impacting both your sleep and oral health. Booking a dental appointment can be crucial in identifying and addressing these issues early.

Why Visit a Dentist for Better Sleep and Dental Health?

Various nighttime habits and conditions can influence your dental health. Paying attention to both areas can ensure total wellness. If you experience frequent dry mouth, jaw discomfort, or unexplained dental damage, it’s time to evaluate your sleep patterns. Visit our dental office or dentist to uncover signs you may have overlooked and receive care that supports long-term health.

Understanding how your body’s nightly rhythms affect your teeth and gums is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth. Small changes, such as stress management, addressing breathing issues, or a better sleep routine, can all contribute to oral well-being. If you are concerned about either your dental condition or your sleep habits, contact us right now.


Transform Your Smile with Porcelain Veneers: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you tired of hiding your smile due to discolored, chipped or misaligned teeth? Do you dream of having a perfect set of pearly whites that can light up any room? Well, look no further than porcelain veneers! These thin shells cover the front surface of your teeth and can transform your appearance within just a few visits to the dentist. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about porcelain veneers, from their benefits and drawbacks to the procedure itself. Get ready to unlock your best smile yet!

What are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are a type of dental prosthetic used to improve the appearance of teeth. They are made from porcelain, a type of ceramic material, and are bonded to the front surface of the teeth. Veneers can be used to correct a variety of dental concerns, such as gaps between teeth, misshapen teeth, discoloration, and chips or cracks. Porcelain veneers are also sometimes used to change the size or shape of teeth.

Veneers are usually applied to the eight front teeth, but can be placed on any visible tooth. The procedure is usually completed in two office visits. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel from their surface. This allows room for the veneer to be placed without making the tooth appear too bulky. An impression is then taken of the prepared teeth which is used to create the custom veneers. At the second visit, the veneers are fitted and bonded in place.

Porcelain veneers are a popular choice for those looking to improve their smile because they provide a natural-looking result. Veneers can last for many years with proper care, though they may need to be replaced or repaired over time.

The Benefits of Porcelain Veneers

If you’re unhappy with your smile, porcelain veneers may be the right solution for you. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored porcelain that are bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth. They can improve the color, shape, size and overall appearance of your teeth and give you a beautiful, natural-looking smile.

Veneers are an excellent solution for people who have stained, chipped or misshapen teeth. They can also be used to close gaps between teeth or to change the length or shape of teeth. Porcelain veneers are strong and durable and can last for many years with proper care.

There are many benefits to choosing porcelain veneers over other cosmetic dental treatments:

Porcelain veneers look natural and realistic.

They resist staining and discoloration from coffee, tea, red wine and smoking better than other cosmetic dental treatments such as tooth bonding or tooth whitening.

Veneers can be used to correct a wide range of cosmetic dental concerns including stains, chips, gaps, misshapen teeth and more.

They provide a long-lasting solution for improving your smile. With proper care, porcelain veneers can last for many years.

The Procedure for Getting Porcelain Veneers

The first step in getting porcelain veneers is to consult with a cosmetic dentist. During the consultation, the dentist will examine your teeth and discuss your goals for treatment. If you are a good candidate for veneers, the dentist will then take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental laboratory.

At the dental laboratory, technicians will create custom-made veneers based on the impressions. Once the veneers are ready, you will return to the dentist’s office for placement. During this appointment, the dentist will clean your teeth and roughen their surfaces. This helps ensure that the veneers adhere properly to your teeth.

Next, the dentist will place adhesive on your teeth and gently press the veneers into place. Finally, the dentist will cure the adhesive with a special light. With proper care, porcelain veneers can last for many years.

The Cost of Porcelain Veneers

The cost of porcelain veneers will vary depending on the number of veneers needed and the geographical location.

Porcelain veneers are generally more expensive than other types of dental veneers because they require more preparation of the tooth. Porcelain veneers also tend to last longer than other types of veneers, making them a good investment for your smile transformation.

How to Maintain Your Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option for achieving a beautiful, white smile. With proper care, they can last for many years. Here are some tips for maintaining your porcelain veneers:

1. Brush and floss regularly. Just like your natural teeth, you need to brush and floss your veneers every day to remove plaque and bacteria. Be sure to use a non-abrasive toothpaste specifically designed for veneers.

2. Avoid hard foods. Biting into hard foods can crack or chip your veneers. So be careful with ice, candy, or nuts. If you do eat something hard, brush your teeth afterwards to remove any particles that may have become lodged in your veneers.

3. See your dentist regularly. Even though veneers are durable, it’s still important to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. They can catch any problems early and prevent further damage to your veneers or underlying teeth.

Conclusion

Porcelain veneers are an excellent way to improve the appearance of your smile. They can be used to correct a variety of issues such as discoloration, chips, and gaps in teeth. It is important to remember that porcelain veneers require maintenance and should not be considered a permanent solution for dental problems. As with any medical procedure, it’s always best to consult with a qualified dentist before making any decisions about your oral health care. With proper care and regular check-ups however, you can enjoy beautiful results from porcelain veneers for years to come!

Frequently asked question

1. What are porcelain veneers?
A. Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth. They can be used to improve the appearance of your teeth and make them look straighter, whiter, and more uniform.

2. How long do porcelain veneers last?
A. With proper care, porcelain veneers can last for many years. However, they may eventually need to be replaced or repaired.

3. Is getting porcelain veneers painful?
A. Getting porcelain veneers usually does not require any numbing medication and is not considered to be a painful procedure. However, you may experience some discomfort during the preparation stage of the treatment if your teeth need to be trimmed down.


Revitalize Your Smile with Restorative Dentistry

Are you hiding your smile because of missing, damaged or crooked teeth? Or, are dental pains and discomforts making it difficult for you to enjoy your favorite foods? Worry not! Restorative dentistry is here to revitalize your damaged teeth and give you a healthy mouth that shines. With the help of advanced technology and innovative techniques, restorative dentists can restore your oral health by repairing or replacing missing or broken teeth with natural-looking prosthetics. Keep reading this blog post to learn more about how restorative dentistry can transform your smile into a confident asset that brightens up any room.

What is restorative dentistry?

Restorative dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the repair and replacement of teeth that have been damaged or lost. It can involve a wide range of treatments, from simple fillings to complex dental implants.

At its core, restorative dentistry is about restoring function and aesthetics to your smile. Whether you’ve suffered an injury, have tooth decay, or are simply missing teeth, restorative treatments can help you get your smile back. And with advances in dental technology, these treatments are more effective and lifelike than ever before.

If you’re considering restorative dentistry, it’s important to find a dentist who has experience and training in this area. Dr. Kari Pohlman is a highly skilled restorative dentist who has helped countless patients regain their confidence with beautiful, natural-looking results.

To learn more about what restorative dentistry can do for you, contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Pohlman.

The benefits of restorative dentistry

If your smile is damaged or you’re missing teeth, restorative dentistry can revitalize your appearance and restore function. Restorative procedures can also be used to prevent further damage and decay.

There are many benefits to restorative dentistry, including:

Improved Appearance:

Damaged or missing teeth can impact the way you look. Restorative procedures can help improve the appearance of your smile.

Restored Function:

Damaged or missing teeth can impact the way you eat, speak, and feel about yourself. Restorative procedures can help restore function and improve your quality of life.

Prevention of Further Damage:

Restorative procedures can help prevent further damage to your teeth and mouth. Early intervention can save you time and money in the long run.

Improved Oral Health:

Restorative procedures can also improve your oral health overall. By restoring damaged teeth, you’ll be able to better keep your mouth clean and healthy.

The different types of restorative procedures

There are many different types of restorative dental procedures, each of which can help to improve the appearance and function of your teeth. Some of the most common procedures include:

Dental crowns:

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or metal.

Dental bridges:

A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. The bridge consists of two dental crowns that are placed on either side of the empty space, with false teeth in between. Bridges can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or metal.

Dental implants:

A dental implant is a titanium screw that is surgically placed into the jawbone to act as a replacement for a natural tooth root. Once the implant has healed, a artificial tooth (crown) can be attached to it. Dental implants are considered the best option for replacing missing teeth because they are strong and durable and they look and function just like natural teeth.

Inlays and onlays:

Inlays and onlays are custom-made pieces of composite resin or ceramic that are used to repair small areas of tooth damage. They are bonded to the surface of the tooth and can be used to replace fillings or cover up small chips or cracks.

How to choose the right dentist for you

There are a few key things to keep in mind when choosing the right dentist for you and your family. You want to find someone who is gentle and caring, as well as experienced and knowledgeable. Here are a few tips on finding the best dentist for you:

1. Ask around for recommendations

Talk to your friends, family, and co-workers and see who they see for their dental needs. They can give you first-hand accounts of their experiences with different dentists in the area.

2. Do some research online

Once you have a few names, take some time to look them up online. Read reviews from other patients, check out their website, and get a feel for their practice.

3. Schedule a consultation

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, call each dentist’s office and schedule a consultation appointment. This will give you an opportunity to meet the dentist and staff, ask questions, and get a feel for the office environment.

Conclusion

Restorative dentistry is an invaluable way to revitalize your smile and protect your overall dental health. With the help of a qualified dentist, you can reclaim the beauty and health of your teeth while restoring their full function. Whether you need a few fillings or require more extensive treatments such as implants or crowns, restorative dentistry can make all the difference. Take time to find an experienced, certified dentist who specializes in restorative dentistry for best results.

FAQs

1. What is restorative dentistry?

Restorative dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on repairing and restoring teeth that are damaged, decayed, or missing. This can include procedures such as fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, and veneers.

2. Why is restorative dentistry important?

Restorative dentistry is important because it can help to improve your oral health and restore your smile. When your teeth are healthy and functioning properly, you’ll be able to eat and speak correctly, and you’ll feel more confident about your appearance.

3. What are some common restorative dental procedures?

Some common restorative dental procedures include fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, and veneers. Fillings are used to repair cavities, while crowns are used to cover damaged or misshapen teeth. Bridges can replace missing teeth, and implants are used to support artificial teeth. Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are bonded to the front of the teeth in order to improve their appearance.


Cosmetic Dentistry vs. General Dentistry In Reno

Cosmetic Dentistry vs. General Dentistry In Reno Hello, I’m Dr. Sykes Shane. Welcome to my Reno cosmetic dentistry blog. Today’s article focuses on the difference between general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.

General dentists in Reno are dedicated to preventing and treating oral disease such as cavities and gum disease. When a problem is diagnosed, let’s say, a cavity between two teeth, a general dentist will assess the best way to restore the tooth involved.

Reno cosmetic dentists perform elective dental procedures that make a smile more attractive. Cosmetic dentistry procedures available at The Reno Dentist in Reno include teeth whitening, tooth-colored fillings, dental bonding, veneers, inlays, onlays, and dental crowns.

Some Reno dentists, like myself, offer both general and cosmetic dentistry procedures. In some cases, there is a cosmetic component to restorative procedures. For example, if a Reno dental patient comes in after receiving an injury that chipped a front tooth, the tooth needs to be restored to prevent decay. The tooth is also less structurally sound, so it is vulnerable to further damage. In addition, the tooth affects the overall appearance of the smile. Depending on the specifics of the damage, there are several of restorative options. Dental bonding, porcelain veneers, and crowns are all used to repair a damaged tooth.

As you can see, there is not always a definitive line between general and cosmetic dentistry. At The Reno Dentist, my knowledgeable team provides the full spectrum of preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dental procedures. We treat Sparks area patients of all ages: from toddlers just beginning to get their baby teeth to mature clients who remember the days when many people were afraid of dentists and their whiny drills. (Some of our wonderful elderly Reno patients have crowns that are twice as old as our hygienists.)

Experienced Reno dental professionals who perform pediatric, general, orthodontic, and cosmetic dental procedures can meet all of your families’ dental needs.

If you are looking for a full-service dental practice in the Sparks area, I invite you to come into The Reno Dentist in Reno, We are located at 855 W Seventh St Ste 200. To schedule an oral examination or smile makeover consultation, call 775-323-0700.

The Reno Dentist
855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada 89503
https://therenodentist.com/
dental implants
cosmetic dentistry
cosmetic dentistry
dental implants


A Facial Or Filling In Reno?

a facial or filling in Reno?At The Reno Dentist, we know that we can’t completely fool you. When you receive treatment at our comfortable cosmetic dental practice, you won’t actually believe you are at a plush spa relaxing with cucumbers over your eyes.

Just because we can’t recreate an identical Reno spa experience, that doesn’t stop us from trying.

We have a full-service dental comfort menu for our Carson City cosmetic dentistry patients.

  • Oral Conscious Sedation: Choose your level of sedation for confident relaxation
  • Topical analgesic
  • A variety of media choices
  • Soft bite blocks to rest your jaw during treatment
  • Personalized attention from our knowledgeable The Reno Dentist team
  • Ergonomic reclining chairs for maximum back and neck comfort
  • Rigorous infection control protocols for peace of mind

Are you in need of tooth restorations, teeth whitening, orthodontic solutions, or just a thorough dental cleaning in Reno?

Enjoy a luxurious dental spa experience at The Reno Dentist without paying extra. Schedule gentle dentistry today by calling 775-323-0700.

Dr. Sykes
Shane Sykes The Reno Dentist
855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada 89503
775-323-0700
https://therenodentist.com/

We can make you look and feel great


The Reno Dentist Guide To Dry Mouth

The The Reno Dentist Guide To Dry Mouth

Many folks in our Reno community experience dry mouth occasionally. Some develop dry mouth in social situations or when they are under a lot of stress. Sporadic or infrequent dry mouth is usually not a problem. Constant dry mouth, or xerostomia, is not only irritating, it can lead to severe health problems.

Reno people should not take their saliva for granted. Your saliva plays a very important role in maintaining your health. One of its roles is to help digest your food. The moment food enters your mouth, saliva starts breaking it down so your body can metabolize it. If you don’t produce enough saliva to perform this task, your body may not be getting important nutrients needed to stay healthy.

Saliva also functions as a disinfectant by cleansing the mouth of leftover food, bacteria, and fungi.
This helps prevent tooth decay and infections. Many Reno residents don’t realize that many of the foods we eat are very acidic and our saliva helps counteract those acids in our mouths.

I am Shane Sykes, and my staff and I at The Reno Dentist treat xerostomia regularly for our Reno, Spanish Springs, and Sparks patients. I recommend cutting back on caffeine in such drinks as cola, coffee, and tea. Not only do these beverages stain and discolor your teeth, but the caffeine can also contribute to dry mouth. I also recommend drinking water throughout the day to make sure you are adequately hydrated.

Tobacco and alcohol can also contribute to dry mouth. Consult your Sparks physician if you are taking medication that is causing your dry mouth.

Dry mouth is not a natural part of aging, so call The Reno Dentist today and schedule an appointment if your dry mouth is getting worse as you grow older.
775-323-0700

Looking for a gentle family dentist who focuses on preventative dentistry or a skilled cosmetic dentist adept at smile design? I invite you to come visit my practice at 855 W Seventh St Ste 200 in Reno. My team of dental professionals at The Reno Dentist make sure you have a pleasant experience whether you visit us for a cleaning and exam or a complete smile makeover.

Our dental menu includes teeth bleaching, crowns and bridges, veneers, short term braces, oral cancer screenings, inlays/onlays, cosmetic dental bonding, and headache and TMJ treatment.

A beautiful smile starts with healthy teeth.

Shane Sykes
The Reno Dentist
855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno Nevada
775-323-0700
https://therenodentist.com/about/our-office/


Cosmetic Dentistry Gives Sparks Residents Perfect Smiles

Cosmetic Dentistry Gives Sparks Residents Perfect Smiles

Hi. I’m Dr. Shane Sykes, and I’ve been a dentist here in Reno since 2011. One of my favorite things about being a dentist is seeing how my Reno area patients find renewed confidence in themselves after a smile makeover.

If you’ve ever wanted to improve your smile, call me today at 775-323-0700 so we can talk about your cosmetic dentistry options.

There have been numerous advances in the field of cosmetic dentistry in recent years and you may be surprised to find out what your Reno dentist can do for your smile.

Teeth whitening is a common procedure in Sparks dental offices, but the results can be dramatic! Brighter teeth can be the centerpiece of your new, youthful look.

Veneers are designed to cover the front of the teeth and are custom-made for each individual patient. These are useful for Reno patients who have broken or chipped teeth, stained teeth, or gaps between teeth that they would like to hide.

Enamel shaping, bonding, and braces are other important procedures that can be used to help your teeth look their best.

So, why wait, Sparks? Now is the time to get the smile you’ve always wanted, and I’m here to help. The knowledgeable staff here at The Reno Dentist would love to answer any questions you have about these cosmetic dentistry procedures as well as bridges, crowns, and general oral health.

We are currently accepting new patients, so contact us today!

Dr. Shane Sykes
The Reno Dentist
855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
775-323-0700
https://therenodentist.com/about/our-office/


Are You Getting Your Dose Of D?

pediatric dentist

Most Sparks residents know that vitamin D is important for healthy teeth and bones, but many of us fail to get adequate amounts. Today’s article is a friendly reminder to our patients – especially expectant mothers – about the importance of vitamin D.

Here is a sampling of vitamin D findings from around the web:

“Several recent reports demonstrate a significant association between periodontal health and the intake of vitamin D.” 1

“Researchers who took a second look at a series of clinical trials conducted on 2,000 children in several countries between the 1920s and 1980s determined vitamin D — which we often garner from sunlight — was associated with around a 50 percent reduction in the incidence of tooth decay.”2

“Inadequate vitamin D levels in pregnant women may be associated with dental caries in their children during the first year of life.”3

“The sun is an excellent source of vitamin D, but it is hard to quantify how much vitamin D you get from time in the sun and the risk of skin cancer may outweigh the benefits. Food first, says Baylor College of Medicine dietitian Keli Hawthorne. “Supplements can fill in the gaps but it is always better to try to meet your nutritional needs with foods that contain fiber, phytonutrients, and so much more,” Unless you enjoy a diet that includes fatty fish or fish liver oils, it may be hard to get enough vitamin D naturally without eating fortified foods or taking a supplement. “The major dietary source of vitamin D comes from fortified diary, along with some yogurts and cereals,” Hawthorne says. Mushrooms, eggs, cheese, and beef liver contain small amounts.” 4

I’m Shane Sykes of The Reno Dentist in Reno, Nevada. I encourage all of my patients to practice preventative medicine by eating a healthy diet complete with all vital nutrients. At The Reno Dentist, we offer the full lineup of dental services in our conveniently located office. Ask us about dentures, porcelain veneers, or wisdom teeth extraction.

We are currently accepting new patients at The Reno Dentist. My friendly team of dental professionals would love to serve your family for all of their dental needs. You can schedule an appointment by calling 775-323-0700.

1 SH Stein, DA Tipton, “Vitamin D and its impact on oral health–an update., Spring 2011, PubMed.gov NIH,” http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21748977, accessed on June 23, 2014
2 1University of Washington, “Vitamin D linked to lower rates of tooth decay,” ScienceDaily, November 27, 2012, www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/11/121127130321.htm, accessed on June 23, 2014
3 “Maternal Vitamin D Levels and Early Childhood Caries May be Linked, Researchers Find,”Journal of the American Dental Association, June 1, 2014, http://jada.info/content/145/6/526.3.full, accessed on June 23, 2014
4 “Are You Getting Enough Vitamin D?,” WebMD, 2011, http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/guide/are-you-getting-enough-vitamin-d?page=2, accessed on June 23, 2014


“It Doesn’t Take A Lot Of Time To Beautify Your Smile, Reno”

Are you a busy Reno resident who can’t find the time to improve your smile? My name is Shane Sykes and my staff and I at The Reno Dentist believe finding the time to restore missing, cracked, or discolored teeth is the most important thing you can do with your time.

You may think that hiding your smile as you zip around zip area 89503 running errands or dropping kids off will make your dental problems disappear. Think again. At The Reno Dentist we have been treating the residents of Reno and it’s surrounding areas since 2011 and have seen the results of neglected teeth and gums. Don’t let your Nevada smile deteriorate any longer, call me today at 775-323-0700 to begin restoring your smile.

One of our specialties at The Reno Dentist is dental implants. Whether you have damaged or lost your tooth due to injury or periodontal disease, we have custom treatment plans to restore it. Our happy Reno dental implant patients have discovered that implants look and feel like their own teeth.

Dental implants are great for producing a foundation for dentures, supporting a bridge, or replacing a damaged tooth without disturbing the surrounding teeth. Since dental implants interface into the anatomy of your jaw they help reduce bone loss and gum recession.

My staff and I at The Reno Dentist would love to have a consultation and develop a comprehensive treatment plan for you. Your smile is our number one priority, make it yours as well and you will be healthier and happier.

We provide advanced general and cosmetic dentistry including wisdom teeth extraction, root canals and dentures.


Tooth Brushing Basics For Healthy Smiles In Reno

The Reno Dentist Will Help You Keep A Healthy Smile Why should everyone in Reno brush at least twice a day? Let’s take a look at why this is so important.

Brushing and flossing is the best way to prevent decay.

Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and carefully flossing removes the food from our teeth and inhibits the build up of plaque. If we let food stay on our teeth, the starches in the food will mix with the plaque. This nasty mixture forms an acid which immediately starts drilling into the enamel to form cavities. Brushing can’t get all the spaces between your teeth, so you’ve got to floss also.

Brushing and flossing keeps gums and bone healthy.

If you let gum disease go untreated, you can lose teeth that are cavity-free!

The progression of gum disease (gingivitis) goes like this:

  1. Plaque build-up irritates gums.
  2. Irritated gums pull away from teeth.
  3. Bacteria multiplies in the spaces between the gum and tooth.
  4. The bone holding the tooth is eaten by the bacteria.
  5. Say goodbye to the tooth.

The good news is that gingivitis can be reversed if detected early.

Call The Reno Dentist at 775-323-0700 to schedule a gum disease evaluation at our office in Reno.