Which Teeth Treatments Can Be Done At Home?
Many of the most common teeth treatments are done at home, although this doesn’t lessen their importance. They should be done at least daily, preferably more frequently.
Brushing Teeth
The American Dental Association recommends that you brush your teeth at least twice each day for two minutes each time. It takes this long to remove all the debris that can collect between your teeth and gums and cause decay to form. The American Dental Association recommends that you use a soft-bristled brush and a gentle, circular motion for the best results.
Flossing
For your gum health, flossing is equally important as brushing. Even the best toothbrush can’t reach all the crevices between your teeth and gums. Dental floss, however, can reach all the places that your toothbrush misses and leave you with a much cleaner mouth that’s free of food particles. You can use dental floss, a dental flosser, or dental floss picks, whichever works best for you.
Don’t neglect to floss, however, even if you have dentures. Those who wear braces or dentures might find a proxabrush to be more beneficial than other types of floss. If you have large gaps between your teeth, you still need to floss, but flossing tape might be the most effective for you.
Antibacterial Mouthwash
The American Dental Association also recommends that you use an antibacterial mouthwash at least once each day. Using it before bedtime will ensure that no bacterial residue remains in your mouth overnight and will significantly lessen the likelihood of cavities and decay forming.
Which Tooth Treatments Are Done In The Dental Office?
Many dental treatments that occur only annually or semi-annually are done in your dentist’s office, such as:
Teeth Cleaning
Even if you are dedicated to brushing, flossing, and rinsing at least twice daily, you should still have your teeth cleaned at least once each year, twice is better. Your dentist will be able to spot any minor issues and treat them before they escalate into more severe problems. If you have any plaque forming, it can be removed before it builds up and causes problems with your teeth and gums. Plaque is a very hard substance that can only be removed by a dentist, so don’t neglect your regularly scheduled dental cleanings.
See Also: Teeth Cleaning Los Angeles
Tooth Filling
If you experience tooth pain, you might have a cavity. Your dentist can remove the damaged part of the tooth and replace it will a filling. If you wait too long, however, you may need a crown or cap, so if you have toothaches, see your dentist without delay.
Tooth Extraction
If you have a cavity that is too large for a filling or the tooth is too damaged to be saved, you may need an extraction. Wisdom teeth are often extracted so that other teeth aren’t crowded into misalignment.
See Also: Wisdom teeth extraction Los Angeles
Root Canal
When a tooth is severely damaged, sometimes the only option is a root canal. This procedure removes the pulp of the tooth, the area is disinfected, and then it’s filled with a rubbery substance called gutta-percha. Root canals can sometimes be avoided by prompt attention to a cavity or a toothache.
Prophylactic Dental Treatments
Some types of dental treatments are intended to prevent problems from occurring, such as:
Braces
If you or your child have misaligned teeth, braces can straighten them and provide a beautiful smile. Several types of braces are available now. You’re no longer limited to uncomfortable and unattractive metal wire-and-bracket braces.
Mouth Guard
If you or your child are active in sports, a mouth guard can help protect your teeth from damage. Mouth guards are also used for those who have bruxism. Although over-the-counter mouth guards are available, the best option is to order a custom mouth guard from your dentist.
Dental Sealants
Your dentist can apply a plastic sealant to the backs of your teeth to help keep bacteria from accumulating on the backs of your teeth.
Teeth Whitening
Although over-the-counter teeth whitening products are available for at-home use, the most effective teeth whitening procedure is done by a professional dentist. A professional whitening produces better results faster than at-home methods, and you’ll get evenly colored teeth, which may not happen with over-the-counter products.
Do You Need Teeth Treatments?
If you need professional teeth treatments, then call Southland Dental Care, located at 4312 Woodman Avenue, Suite 100 in the heart of beautiful downtown Sherman Oaks. We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can be assured you’ll be happy with your dental treatment.
We’re open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm and on Saturday by appointment. If you need dental treatment, don’t hesitate to call us at 818-788-8787. You may also schedule an appointment online at your convenience.
