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How To Strengthen Tooth Enamel and Improve the Appearance of Your Teeth

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Whenever you consume acidic foods of any kind, the tooth enamel on your teeth experiences a temporary softening and loses some of the essential minerals it contains. Saliva has the ability to naturally restore the mouth’s pH equilibrium in a matter of a few hours. However, the enamel is particularly susceptible to suffering long-term damage in the meantime.

What Does Tooth Enamel Loss Look Like?

As your dentist in Beaumont, TX can explain, dents can form on the surface of the tooth if enamel erosion continues unchecked for a long enough period of time. These pits or indentations on the tooth surface, which dentists refer to as cupping, frequently take place as a result of the enamel and dentin being worn away by acids produced in the mouth.

The yellowish dentin layer is more apparent when the tooth’s enamel has worn away significantly. This is distinct from the yellow stains that can develop on teeth as a result of smoking and consuming particular foods and drinks. The teeth may appear more transparent, dull, and lose their natural shine in addition to appearing more yellow.

The edges of the teeth no longer remain smooth as enamel starts to erode. They may appear rounded and rough. If the issue is not quickly fixed, it may result in teeth that are chipped or cracked.

Can Tooth Enamel Be Restored?

Tooth enamel is a protective barrier against bacteria and other things that endanger teeth. There are websites and products for sale online that promise to restore enamel. Unfortunately, the loss of tooth enamel is permanent. 

Tooth enamel can’t be replaced or restored. The reason is that tooth enamel is not living tissue, so there’s no way it can “grow” back. However, weakened tooth enamel can be strengthened by adding mineral content.

How Can Tooth Enamel Be Strengthened?

The first step in strengthening existing tooth enamel is to refrain from eating acidic foods that eat away at enamel. This includes alcoholic beverages, vinegar-y foods, tomatoes and more.

Next, ensure that you are using fluoride, in your water, toothpaste and mouthwash. Fluoride can help to remineralize tooth enamel, adding a certain level of protection.

Next, consider restorative treatments such as tooth bonding and dental veneers. These treatments, while cosmetic, add strength to weakened teeth.

Contact your dentist in Beaumont, TX to learn more about improving the strength and appearance of your teeth.

 

What Are Canker Sores? What You Need to Know 

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Canker sores can be painful! Some people get a lot of canker sores, other people get them rarely. If you’re one of those people who gets canker sores quite a bit, it’s helpful to know what causes the canker sores, and what you can do about them. Most important to know is that, if you get frequent canker sores, it’s helpful to work with yourdentist in Beaumont, TX.

Canker Sore Causes

The exact causes of canker sores is unknown, but it’s believed that there are many things that can cause canker sores, including:

  • Stress. Some people believe they get canker sores as the result of stress they’re feeling.
  • Foods. Some foods can cause canker sores for some people. Foods that contain acid and citrus are believed to cause canker sores or make them worse.
  • Injuries. Canker sores can occur when someone bites the inside of their mouth or sustains an injury from a dental appliance.
  • Hormones. Some women get canker sores due to hormonal changes occurring in their body.

How to Prevent Canker Sores

While the exact cause of canker sores is unknown, there are many ways to help prevent them. If you believe that your canker sores are the result of stress, practice de-stressing techniques like meditation and mindful thinking.

If you don’t think that stress is the cause of your canker sores, pay attention to the foods that you eat during and just before you get canker sores. Look for patterns in your eating habits that could indicate a cause.

After an injury to your mouth, keep your mouth very clean. Brush your teeth twice daily, floss regularly and use mouth wash to keep the wound as clean as possible.

If hormones are the cause of your canker sores, you may notice that your canker sores come and go at specific times of the month, or according to your body’s cycles. If this is the case, talk to your doctor.

Avoid Canker Sores – Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Overall, one of the ways you can control your canker sores is to keep your mouth clean! Get your teeth cleaned on a regular basis, to minimize bacteria in your mouth. See your dentist for adental exam in Beaumont, TX.

The Different Types of Sedation Dentistry. Which One Is Right for You?

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Are you terrified when it comes to going to the dentist? If so, you are not alone. But don’t put off going to the dentist because of this fear. There is another way. Talk to a dentist in Beaumont, TX about sedation dentistry.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a method that uses medication to help patients relax when receiving any given dental procedure. There are four different types of sedation used in sedation dentistry.

What Are the Different Types of Sedation Dentistry?

Here are the four types of sedation dentistry that a dentist in Beaumont, TX will most commonly use.

  • Inhaled Sedation

This is a minimal sedation method that involves giving the patient nitrous oxide (sometimes called laughing gas) mixed with oxygen. The patient will breathe the nitrous oxide/oxygen mix through a mask placed over their nose. When it comes to minimal sedation dentistry in Beaumont, TX, nitrous oxide is the most common type used. The gas wears off quickly; therefore, the patient can drive immediately after leaving the dentist’s office.

  • Oral Sedation

Oral sedation dentistry ranges from minimal to a moderate range depending on what’s needed. At the minimal end of the spectrum, the patient is given a pill similar to Valium about an hour before the procedure. If a more moderate dose of sedation is needed, the dentist will give the patient a larger dose.

The minimal sedation dose will make the patient sleepy, but they will remain awake. However, if given a moderate dose, many patients will typically fall asleep during their procedure.

  • IV Sedation

IV sedation is a more powerful form of moderate sedation. IV sedation is administered through a vein. This IV drug enables the dentist to regulate and adjust the sedation levels to his or her patient as needed.

  • Deep Sedation

Deep sedation is administered using general anesthesia. The dentist will give the patient medication that will make the patient partially or totally unconscious during the dental procedure. Deep sedation using anesthesia has to wear off or be reversed using an additional medication to awaken the patient.

What’s Next?

If you are looking for a Beaumont, TX dentist who offers sedation dentistry, please Contact Southern Oaks Dental Care today. We are proud members of this community and will treat you and your family with all the care and respect you deserve.

Does a Cracked Molar Have to be Treated?

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When you have a cracked molar, you may feel like the world is ending. Depending on how long you’ve been suffering from a cracked molar, you may not even be able to remember when eating wasn’t extremely uncomfortable or painful. A cracked molar can also make you feel extremely miserable because it may cause severe tooth pain and swollen gums. The only way to say goodbye to these symptoms is to receive proper treatment for your cracked molar from your dentist in Beaumont, TX in a timely manner.

The Most Common Treatments For A Cracked Molar

When it comes to treating a cracked molar, most dentists will suggest a crown, root canal, or tooth extraction. The only exception is if you have a really small crack in your molar. For most minor cracks, many dentists will simply remove them with bonding or porcelain veneers. The specific treatment for a cracked molar will depend on the extent of the crack.

A crown is a great treatment option because the cap will preserve your tooth’s healthy structure while protecting it from further damage. A root canal can get rid of the damaged tissue if the crack has affected your tooth’s pulp. If your tooth just can’t be saved, a tooth extraction is probably the only option. Your dentist in Beaumont will be able to tell you what options may be best suited for your particular situation.

What Happens When A Cracked Molar Is Left Untreated

Whether you need a crown, root canal, or tooth extraction, it’s best to get the cracked molar treated as soon as possible. The condition will only get worse if treatment is delayed. When a cracked molar isn’t treated, complications like infection can occur. A tooth infection often presents unbearable symptoms such as severe tooth pain, swelling in the gums, sensitivity to hot and cold food/drinks, and difficulty eating and chewing.

Do you have a strong feeling that one of your molars is cracked? Visiting a dentist is the best way to know whether or not you have a cracked molar in Beaumont, TX. Always keep in mind that early treatment is key because you may be able to avoid tooth extraction. While you’re waiting for your dental appointment, make sure to avoid consuming extremely hot and cold foods/drinks, determine which tooth hurts, and brush/floss your teeth regularly.

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How Often Should I See the Dentist?  

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Knowing how often to see the dentist can help you take care of your teeth. If you don’t go often enough, you could end up with dental caries, plaque, gum disease and more. In this article, we’ll talk about the frequency with which you should see the dentist, so you can have the information you need to take care of your teeth and gums.

Most People See the Dentist Every 6 Months

How often you should see the dentist depends on how healthy your teeth and gums are. The frequency of visits should be set by your dentist. According to the American Dental Association, over 50% of the population sees the dentist every 6 months. About 15% of the population sees the dentist once per year, and an even smaller percentage of the population visits the dentist every two to three years.

Your Dentist Will Tell You When to Return

When you go in for a dental cleaning, your dentist will tell you when you should come back. Your dentist may send a reminder to you – either as a postcard or as an email – around the time of your next visit. If you’re visiting a new dentist, find out if your dentist will send such a postcard. If not, you’ll need to have a reminder set up in your phone or on your calendar to ensure that you remember to make that appointment.

Signs It’s Time to See the Dentist

If you’re having any of the following symptoms, you should see the dentist even if you don’t have a regularly scheduled appointment coming up:

  • Inflamed or swollen gums. This is a classic sign of gum disease. Catch gum disease early to prevent it from progressing.
  • Tooth pain. Tooth pain could be a sign of a cavity or a more serious problem. Don’t live with tooth pain, see your dentist.
  • Extra sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. This could be a sign that your teeth are going through changes – let your dentist know.
  • Injury to the mouth. Did you crack or lose a tooth? See a dentist right away.

Contact Southern Oaks Dental Care

Are you seeing signs it’s time to see the dentist? Contact Southern Oaks Dental Care today to make an appointment.

Important Nutrients to Monitor for Your Oral Health If You Live a Vegan Lifestyle  

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The shift toward plant-based diets has been a drastic one in modern society. And, there is no question that eating whole foods that are derived from plants can yield a list of health advantages. Nevertheless, when you completely eliminate animal products from your dietary lineup, certain nutrients can be a bit harder to come by. Unfortunately, not getting enough of certain key vitamins and minerals can be bad for the health of your smile. Take a look at a few key nutrients you may be missing if you eat strictly plants and how you can work them into your diet.

Calcium

Calcium is one of the most vital nutrients where the health f your teeth are concerned, and you can easily miss out on proper levels of calcium intake if you are eating only plant-based foods. To make sure you are getting enough calcium, be sure to incorporate plenty of leafy green veggies, such as kale and collard greens, but you may also want to consider adding vegan-friendly milk products that have been fortified with calcium. For example, you can find some almond and soy mils that have calcium added.

Vitamin B12

B12 is an essential vitamin that your body needs for many reasons, but it is also important to your oral health. B12 is not abundant in plants; it is usually found in meat and dairy products. However, quite a few foods are fortified with vitamin B12, such as breakfast cereals. You may also want to consider adding a B12 supplement to your everyday nutrition plan.

Amino Acids

Certain amino acids are more readily available in foods like poultry, red meat, milk, and fish. One amino acid specifically, arginine, is known to help thwart your risks of gum disease and possibly even help to break down plaque on the teeth. Even though you are eating vegan, you don’t have to go without arginine; you only have to work to incorporate certain foods into your diet. A few good sources of arginine include peanuts, lentils, pumpkin seeds, and chickpeas.

Work with Your Beaumont Dentist to Protect Your Oral Health

Eating all-vegan all the time can offer a lot of good things to your body, but be sure your teeth are still getting what they need. Reach out to us at Southern Oaks Dental Care in Beaumont, TX to keep your oral health in check.

bleeding gums

What Causes Bleeding Gums?

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Bleeding gums may be a precursor to more serious oral health complications. If you have signs of bleeding gums, you should see your Beaumont, TX dentist as soon as possible to diagnose and treat the problem.

When Do Bleeding Gums Occur?

Typically, bleeding of the gums occurs when you are conducting oral hygiene. This is because the gums are stimulated when you brush, floss, and rinse. If you notice that your gums are bleeding during any of these activities, that doesn’t mean you should stop brushing, flossing, and rinsing. Bleeding gums are harmless as far as immediate danger and you should continue your oral cleansing routines. When your gums bleed there is a distinct distaste in the mouth. You should never swallow any of the blood. Always try to spit out as much as possible. Rinse your mouth with warm water until the rinse water is clear of blood.

What Causes Bleeding Gums?

There are many possible causes of bleeding gums. Some of them can be quite serious, which is why you should always contact your Beaumont dentist when you experience bleeding of the gums. Following are some common causes of bleeding gums:

  • Too vigorous brushing – avoid exerting too much force on the delicate gum tissue
  • Too hard bristles – try switching to a medium or soft-bristled brush
  • Systemic bleeding disorder such as hemophilia– this should be managed by a physician and your dentist
  • Hormonal pregnancy changes – the situation is likely temporary
  • Incorrect flossing – ask your dentist to demonstrate the technique
  • Disease – Diseases like leukemia can cause gum bleeding
  • Vitamin deficiency – Insufficient Vitamin C or Vitamin K can lead to excess gum bleeding
  • Overuse of blood thinners – even too much aspirin can cause gums to bleed
  • Poorly fitted dentures – ask your dentist to refit dentures
  • Tooth infection – especially if the bleeding is localized around one tooth
  • Periodontal disease – this must be treated immediately to avoid tooth loss

As you can see, there is no definitive reason why your gums may be bleeding. This is why a dentist visit is imperative; to diagnose and treat your bleeding gums. If no serious cause is determined, then you’ll have assurance that your overall oral health is not in danger. If a serious cause is determined, then your Beaumont dentist will be your first line of defense to get you back to oral health!

4 Changes You May See in Your Mouth During Pregnancy

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You’ve found out that you have a huge reason to be smiling—congratulations! At Southern Oaks Dental Care, we’re here to help you keep your healthy smile throughout your pregnancy. Here are a few changes you may see with your smile while you have a baby-in-progress.

1. You may have more issues with bleeding gums.

During pregnancy, your blood volume naturally increases to support your growing baby. However, this extra blood volume gets circulated throughout the body as well. You may actually notice that your gums bleed a little easier than usual.

2. You may have problems with dry mouth and bad breath.

Dry mouth and bad breath can be a little more common during your gestation due to fluctuating hormones, changes in blood glucose levels, and other things happening within the body during pregnancy. Stay hydrated and talk to your dentist if you are still having issues.

3. You may experience inflammation in your gums.

Changes in hormonal levels during pregnancy may mean you are more at risk of gingivitis. In fact, about 60 to 70 percent of pregnant women will experience gum disease during pregnancy according to the Centers for Disease Control ad Prevention. Pay close attention to any inflamed areas, swelling, or sore spots on your gums and alert the dentist if you spot anything out of the ordinary.

4. You may have more issues with plaque around the gumline.

Most women do change their diet to some degree when they’re pregnant. You may eat more starchy foods because you are eating for two, find yourself snacking more frequently, and even dealing with new and unusual cravings. All this is perfectly normal, but it can also mean you are a little more prone to plaque buildup on your teeth. In general, women are more prone to cavities while they are pregnant, and this excess plaque caused by dietary changes can have a part to play.

Work with a Beaumont Dentist Throughout Your Pregnancy

When your baby is born, you will no doubt be doing a lot of smiling. Taking care of your teeth during pregnancy will sure help make sure you are confident as you do. If you need to schedule an appointment for oral care during pregnancy, reach out to us at Southern Oaks Dental Care in Beaumont, TX.

Can a Loose Tooth be Saved?

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If you find yourself with a loose tooth, you may panic. However, a loose tooth does not mean it cannot be saved. In fact, modern dentistry has many techniques to solve the problem of a loose tooth. But to have the best chance of success, it is imperative you do several things, one of which is to see a dentist as soon as possible.

What Causes Loose Teeth?

When you have a loose tooth, it is probably due to one of several reasons. While your tooth could have been loosened if you got hit in the mouth while playing contact sports or if you fell down, it may also have gotten loose due to gum disease or bruxism, a fancy term for grinding your teeth. But no matter the reason, prompt treatment almost always results in success.

Leave it Alone

While it may be tough to avoid using your tongue or finger to poke at your loose tooth, muster up all the willpower you can to do so. If you don’t, the constant poking and prodding will loosen the tooth even more or even make it fall out of its socket.

Keep it Clean

Since you don’t want an infection to form around your loose tooth, gently rinse your mouth with room-temperature water to remove food particles.

Tooth Splinting

As for how a loose tooth can be saved, most dentists use the technique known as tooth splinting. When this is done, a dental crown is attached to the loose tooth and its surrounding teeth, creating a “splint” that holds them together.

Periodontal Treatment

If gum disease is the reason for your loose tooth, your dentist may need to perform certain types of periodontal treatment. The most common are scaling and root planing, which will remove plaque and tartar.

Dental Implants

In very severe cases or where treatment was significantly delayed, a loose tooth may be pulled and replaced with a dental implant. Though the original tooth will not be saved, the dental implant will look, feel, and perform just like a regular tooth.

Should you discover one of your teeth is loose, don’t just sit around and poke at it with your tongue. Instead, contact your dentist as quickly as possible to schedule an appointment.

 

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Everything You Should Know About Dark Spots Around Your Gumline

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While doing your usual routine with a toothbrush and floss, you spot an area around your gumline that looks darker than what it should be. Dark spots around your gum line can be a good reason to talk to your dentist, especially if those spots remain after you brush. Here is a look at what you should know about dark spots around your gumline.

You could have problems with gum disease.

If the darkened colors you see are specifically your gums, there can be a list of problems taking place, but most of them are going to be related to some form of gum disease. Gingivitis is a telltale cause of darkened gum tissue, for example, because it can have an effect on blood flow to the gums. Smoking or infection or two causes of darkened gums that may or may not be related to gum disease.

You have to watch for decay at the gumline.

Decay that starts at the gumline is actually a really common thing, especially around the bases of teeth that don’t get the most attention while you brush. For example, the backside of your front teeth or the molars in the back can develop gumline decay. Decay commonly starts out as small darkened areas on your teeth, and this can happen right where the gums attach to the teeth because these spots are missed while brushing.

You should see your dentist right away.

Regardless of what it is, that is causing dark spots around your gumline, it is imperative that you speak to a dentist right away. These small issues can grow into something more worrisome. Even though this is not a dental emergency, it is something that your dentist should see, diagnose, and treat.

Contact Us for a Dental Checkup in Beaumont, TX

Any time you spot something odd around your gumline that can’t be removed with regular brushing and flossing, it is best if you talk to your dentist. Something that looks minor could be something more concerning. If you would like to see a dentist for a checkup, reach out to us at Southern Oaks Dental Care in Beaumont, TX to schedule an appointment.