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Should I Brush or Floss First?

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Creating an oral hygiene routine at home is important to help maintain your oral health and keep your teeth and gums feeling great. Brushing and flossing each day is extremely important, and the order in which you do these two items is a common question. Many wonder which way gives the most benefit.

Is Brushing First Better?

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is a key part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Brushing cleans your teeth and removes plaque, as well as prevents cavities from developing. Brushing is not the only thing you need to do to keep your oral hygiene in check. Flossing is another integral part of oral hygiene. The order in which you do these two items is a popular discussion.

Brushing does allow the toothpaste with fluoride to get in-between the teeth and help lift residual plaque when you floss after brushing. Studies show that flossing first is better, and is a more efficient way to keep up with your oral health. Flossing last also leaves particles in your mouth if you do not remember to rinse afterwards.

What About Flossing First?

Flossing first has many benefits, and recent studies now recommend that you should floss first before you brush. Flossing first helps to loosen that plaque buildup, as well as increase fluoride concentration between your teeth. When you brush after flossing the brushing then helps to remove those particles that are released from flossing. This helps to reduce plaque in your mouth, and lowers your risk of developing gum disease. Brushing after you floss helps the toothpaste to really do its job to protect your teeth from decay.

What About Flossing First?

Flossing first has many benefits, and recent studies now recommend that you should floss first before you brush. Flossing first helps to loosen that plaque buildup, as well as increase fluoride concentration between your teeth. When you brush after flossing the brushing then helps to remove those particles that are released from flossing. This helps to reduce plaque in your mouth, and lowers your risk of developing gum disease. Brushing after you floss helps the toothpaste to really do its job to protect your teeth from decay.

Benefits of Flossing and Brushing

  • Prevents gum disease that is caused by poor dental hygiene or not brushing and flossing properly. Routine dental cleanings in our office are important and we recommend dental cleanings at least twice a year.
  • Removes plaque that is the leading cause of gum disease. If you floss and brush your teeth regularly plaque does not have the chance to harden on your teeth.
  • Prevents decay and costly dental procedures. If you take care of your oral health you can avoid serious complications or dental procedures in the future.

Overall, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy by practicing good oral hygiene habits. Cavities and gum disease are preventable, and remembering to floss and brush each day will help keep your mouth feeling great. Visiting our office regularly for your cleaning and exam is another way to stay on top of your oral health.

During your dental exam our team will discuss any hygiene recommendations, and review how to keep up with your oral hygiene care at home. Taking care of your oral health is important, and your health is our priority.

If you are interested in finding out more about how to improve your oral hygiene routine at home, or to schedule your next dental exam, contact our office and our staff will be happy to assist you.

Are There any Differences Between Mouth Washes?

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Mouthwash is used to help rinse away bacteria or food particles after you brush and floss each day. Using mouthwash is an additional way to help protect your teeth and gums. Knowing the differences between mouthwashes can help you choose the right one to incorporate into your oral hygiene routine.

What Are The Different Types of Mouthwashes Available?

Mouthwash With Fluoride

Fluoride mouthwash contain sodium fluoride, and this helps to protect your teeth from decay and cavities. Fluoride is also found in toothpaste and is added to our tap water. Only using the required amount each day is important because too much fluoride can be harmful to your health. Reading the labels can help to ensure you are only using the appropriate amount that is recommended daily.

Antiseptic Mouthwash

Antiseptic mouthwash is the most common mouthwash used by most patients. This type of mouthwash contains alcohol and can help to stop bacteria in its tracks. Using an antiseptic mouthwash can help fight bad breath, and prevent infections. Patients must be careful using this type of mouthwash. Overuse can lead to stains or discoloration on your teeth. Following the recommended daily guidelines is important to keep your teeth and mouth healthy.

Cosmetic Mouthwash

This type of mouthwash is used to only freshen your breath. Cosmetic mouthwash does not do anything to help with your oral health. Using this type of mouthwash can help rinse food particles away, and is a temporary solution for bad breath.

Natural Mouthwash

Natural mouthwash is a common type of mouthwash that helps keep bacteria away and freshens your breath, but contains only natural ingredients. Natural mouthwash brands do not contain alcohol, and the ingredients are safer compared to other types of mouthwashes available.

During your routine cleaning it is important to discuss what products you are using at home including your mouthwash. Our team is available to access your dental health, and recommend the best mouthwash for you to use at home.

Interested in Finding Out More?

During your routine cleaning it is important to discuss what products you are using at home including your mouthwash. Our team is available to access your dental health, and recommend the best mouthwash for you to use at home.

If you are interested in finding out more about what mouthwash may be best for you, or to schedule your next exam, contact our office and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How Can I Reduce My Costs for Dental Care?

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Dental care can be costly, and simple procedures can even run up your bill. Caring for your teeth is necessary to keep your oral and general health in check. Many people have no dental benefits at all, or if they retire their benefits are lost.

Skipping dental care is not an option, and can lead to other more serious health issues such as diabetes, or heart conditions. There are ways you can reduce your dental care costs, and help pay for those costly procedures that are necessary to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Ask Your Dentist if They Offer an In-House Membership Plan

Many dental practices today offer their own dental membership for patients. These plans act like an insurance plan, and give patients discounts on procedures that are done in their office. If a patient does not have insurance it is wise to inquire about an in-house plan to help keep costs down.

Sign Up for a Dental Plan Through Your Employer

Many companies offer both medical and dental insurance plans. Most plans pay for at least half of the cost, and preventative services are typically covered 100 percent. Routine procedures are usually covered around 80 percent, and larger more involved procedures such as crowns are usually covered at 50 percent. Using in-network providers can help you save money, and allow you to get the dental work you need.

Dental Savings Plan

Dental savings plans are available to participants who pay a fee to join. The fee is typically annual, and allows you to choose from a network of dentists that offer discounts for members. Dental savings plans allow patients to get the work done that they need at a discounted price without insurance.

Affordable Care Act

Patients can apply for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act. Logging on to their website can let you know if you qualify to purchase dental coverage.

Dental HMO Plan

A dental HMO plan may be available in your state. Typically cleanings and exams twice a year are covered, and procedures are at a discount. Many dentists participate and accept HMO plans, and this is a good way to help save on dental care.

Veterans Benefits

If you are a veteran you qualify to receive insurance at a reduced rate. Disabled veterans are also eligible for free dental care through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Do Your Research

If you are required to have a costly procedure, research the average price of that procedure. Ask your dentist for a discount, and most likely they will work with you, and help find a price and payment plan that fits your needs.

Create an Emergency Dental Fund

Setting aside money each month for dental care can help cover procedures or emergencies that are unpredictable.  Knowing you have a savings account will put you at ease if an emergency arises and you need dental care.

Looking for an Affordable Dentist Near You?

Taking care of your oral health is a great way to prevent costly dental procedures. Brushing and flossing each day, and staying away from foods and drinks that contain sugar can help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Visiting our office regularly for exams and cleanings is extremely important to maintain your oral health. Regular visits allow our team to get in front of issues before they become urgent, and we can help you keep your teeth and mouth looking and feeling great.

We care about our patients, and our team is here to help take care of your oral health. Ask our team if you have questions on coverage or payment plans, and we will work with you to ensure you can receive the very best care.

To find out more about dental programs we offer, or to schedule your next dental exam, contact our office and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How Do I Get Rid of Bad Breath?

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Many people suffer from chronic bad breath or halitosis. Bad breath is something you do not want to be known for, and typically finding the cause is easy. If you suffer from bad breath but also brush, floss, or gargle each day the cause may not be obvious. Taking the time to figure out the underlying problem that may be causing your bad breath is important, and finding a cure can be simple.

Common Cause of Bad Breath

Dental Hygiene

The first area patients should focus on is their dental hygiene habits. Gum or mints are only a short term solution, and finding the cause is the only way you can truly get relief from bad breath. Looking at your dental hygiene is a great place to start because dental hygiene is the most common cause of chronic bad breath. About 85% of bad breath comes from inside the mouth. If you do not brush and floss daily, bacteria can get left behind and cause issues with your breath. Bacteria eats the leftover food particles in your mouth, and as a result leaves a foul smelling odor in your mouth and on your teeth.

Devices

If patients wear retainers, dentures, or mouthguards while they sleep, these devices can trap bacteria or food particles if not cleaned properly. This can attribute to halitosis or chronic bad breath. Taking care of your teeth and mouth is extremely important for your overall and oral health, and can prevent issues such as bad breath that could be embarrassing around others.

Cavities or Infection

If you suffer from cavities or have an infection lingering in your mouth that has not been treated, this can cause bad breath. Attending regular visits to our office for your dental cleaning and exam is important. Our skilled staff can get in front of issues such as cavities or infections and prevent further problems in the future. If patients have issues with their tonsils or throat, this can cause bad breath, and can be from an infection such as strep throat. Patients should seek treatment from their primary care physician if they feel there is an issue with their tonsils or throat.

Dry Mouth or Dehydration

Dehydration or dry mouth is a common cause of bad breath. Saliva and water wash away bacteria or food particles. If your mouth is not hydrated this reduces saliva and can cause halitosis. Our saliva contains pertinent minerals and proteins that help defend against bacteria. Staying hydrated is important to keep our mouth healthy and to prevent bad breath.

Other Possible Causes for Bad Breath

• Diabetes
• Throat or mouth cancer
• Sinus infection
• Digestive issues
• Acid reflux
• Lung infection
• Liver disease

What Can I Do to Cure My Bad Breath?

• Brush and floss two times a day
• Use an antimicrobial rinse daily
• Tongue scrape daily to remove bacteria
• Remove any devices and clean them thoroughly
• Visit our dental office for regular cleanings and exams
• Review your diet and try and stick to eating healthy foods
• Drink water and stay hydrated
• Avoid tobacco products

Looking For Help With Chronic Bad Breath?

There are many simple solutions to cure bad breath. We encourage you to make an appointment for an exam in our office to discuss your concerns. Our skilled staff can help give you tips, and our thorough dental exam can help identify any issues you may have that could be causing chronic bad breath. If you have already tried simple solutions and still notice your bad breath does not go away, we may advise you make an appointment to see your primary care physician.
If you are interested in finding a solution to cure bad breath we can help. To schedule your appointment contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

4 Tips to Remove Bad Breath!

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We heard several times growing up that the first impression is often the last. That’s why it is important in how we speak, present ourselves, and more. Every person wants to be engraved in somebody’s remembrance of their personality, obviously, not for their poor oral hygiene! That’s why one of the more common questions that our dental office in Sunrise, FL will get from our patients is how they can get rid of their bad breath. 

In this article, the friendly team at Rosenthal Family Dentistry provide some tips that you can employ in trying to treat bad breath. 

 

The Breath Test

Bad breath in medical terms is called Halitosis. It is the most common issue that every single individual faced in their lives. Some people may not even realize that they’re breathing out foul odor as long as they become used to it. But then again sometimes you’re just fearful that your breath stinks when it doesn’t, that condition is known as halitophobia.

You might unaware, but there is a breath test to figure out that you’re stinking or not. Simply lick the wrist, and after a couple of seconds, just smell it. In case if it smells foul, then it means you’re a victim of bad breath or halitosis. In order to resolve this problem first, you have to find out what is leading your foul breath. However, poor oral hygiene, a coated tongue from plaque, and a dental cavity are a couple of non-medical causes. Medically, diabetes, sinusitis, malnutrition, dry mouth, and gastrointestinal problems cause a person’s breath to stink.

4 Tips to Remove Bad Breath - Rosenthal Family Dentistry
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How Can I Get Rid Of My Bad Breath?

Fortunately, people who are facing the issue of bad breath no need to worry about it, because it can be easily tackled! While we would recommend to schedule with your nearest dentist to determine a personal plan for your oral health,  here are some easy and homemade natural cures that you & your family can use for treating  bad breath: 

Consume more Yogurt
Several studies have shown that regular consumption of sugarless, plain yogurt keeps bad breath at bay. Ingesting yogurt minimize the level of hydrogen sulfide is a compound found on the tongue, which leads to bad breath.
Stay Hydrated
You need to stay hydrated all day to make sure that the in-built cleaning system functions smoothly. Eat citrus juices or fruits that enable flushing out of the toxins.
Citrus Juices and Fruits
In order to prevent dryness in the mouth, consume citrus fruits like lemon, grapefruit, and orange, which enhance the production of saliva. The acidity level in lemons hinders the development of bacteria, and its strong scent fragrance conceals your mouth’s bad odor.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
You must visit your dentist twice a year in order to maintain good oral health. Furthermore, make a habit of brushing your teeth twice a day and floss at least once in a day. Try to rinse the mouth with saltwater or peppermint mouthwashes. The most important piece of advice is you need to change your brush after every two or three months.

After following these effective and homemade natural cures, you will get rid of bad breath. But in case if your bad breath persists then, you need to consult your dentist as soon as possible. Treating your bad breath through traditional tricks like usage of mouthwash isn’t a permanent solution. For a permanent solution, you need to change your routines for sure.

Contact Rosenthal Family Dentistry in Sunrise, FL

If you are looking to improve your oral hygiene, you’re in luck! At Rosenthal Family Dentistry, our team of dental professionals is experienced in offering a variety of dental solutions for any issue, including assisting our patients with routine cleanings. Our team proudly served families since 1981!

Contact Rosenthal Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists in Sunrise, FL today! We look forward to meeting you!

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What Can Cause Tooth Sensitivity?

What Are Dental Emergencies

Does drinking cold or hot beverages cause you dental discomfort? Do you figure out yourself wincing while brushing or flossing? If yes, then you could have what is called tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity occurs due to several reasons. Worn out tooth erosion or teeth enamel can a cause of exposing the dentin, which is the inside in the teeth is made up of.That’s why any cold, hot, sour, spicy food consumption can lead to insensitivity in your tooth with exposed dentin!

Because tooth sensitivity is a common experience that our patients will raise, our team has taken the time to explore some of the causes that can lead to sensitive teeth. Don’t hesitate to contact the friendly team at Rosenthal Family Dentistry if you would like to get started on treating your own sensitive smile! 

Tooth Pain Illustration - Rosenthal Family Dentistry
What Is A Tooth Extraction

What Are Some Causes for Tooth Sensitivity?

Here we have the primary reasons for tooth sensitivity and pain in the gums. It might be because of one of the following tooth sensitivity causes. From the food, people consume, to how they brush and floss their teeth, find what is triggering tooth sensitivity so that you can prevent it.

Aggressive Brushing
Brushing too hard may wear down the root cementum and enamel. If you figure out that you finish your brushing quicker than your flossing, you may require to adjust the technique to recover your teeth. Over-brushing or aggressive brushing not only teeth hurt the enamel, but it can also become a cause of gum recession, that exposes a softer part of the tooth and can cause you sensitivity and pain.
Receding Gums
When you start noticing that the gap develops between your teeth and gum line, it means that your gums are receding. It exposes dentin tubules that lead to your sensitive nerve branches inside of the teeth. But receding gums isn’t only happening due to hard brushing. If you are experiencing receding gums, then you need to consult your dentist without wasting a minute. The dentist can diagnose and provide proper treatment to your receding gums.
Acidic Diet
If you are often ingesting spicy, sour drink, and foods, it can be strip away the tooth enamel. You need to monitor your highly acidic foods like tomatoes, pickled products, citrus fruits, as well as acidic beverages such as coffee, orange juice, wine, sports drinks, and carbonated sodas, etc.
Lacking Routine Oral Care
Brushing, flossing, and swishing your mouth twice a day is key to keeping healthy oral health. Be routine-oriented and vigilant while cleaning your teeth, and try to brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and electronic brush. It is important to protect the body’s supply of tooth enamel. When your enamel is worn down, it exposes the dentin and leads to sensitivity in your teeth. These are the most common and biggest causes that every person is experiencing because of a lack of proper oral hygiene or routine. Try to consult your dentist to get further guidance regarding oral health.
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Contact Rosenthal Family Dentistry in Sunrise, FL

If you believe that you are suffering from one of the aforementioned dental diseases, you’re in luck! At Rosenthal Family Dentistry, our team of dental professionals is experienced in offering a variety of dental solutions for any issue. Our team proudly served families since 1981!

Contact Rosenthal Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists in Sunrise, FL today! We look forward to meeting you!