At Maplewood Dental Associates, our skilled hygienists and dedicated team know how important it is to keep your smile healthy! Taking time daily to floss, brush, and use mouthwash is essential for preventing cavities and other dental problems. Following a good oral hygiene routine, getting treatments like sealants and fluoride, and visiting us regularly for cleanings are vital to keeping your mouth clean and your overall health in great shape for years to come!
Tooth decay is a serious issue caused by bacteria interacting with sugars in our foods. When you eat sugary foods, bacteria produce acids that can break down tooth enamel and lead to cavities. Our expert dentists can remove this decay and fill the tooth using composite fillings, restoring it to a healthy state.
If the decay gets severe, it can damage nerves and might require a crown. We specialize in cosmetic dentistry and offer same-day crowns. To avoid tooth decay and extra dental work, we recommend a solid dental hygiene routine: brush and floss twice daily, get fluoride treatments, and keep up with regular checkups. Good oral hygiene helps you avoid unhealthy teeth and costly treatments later on.
The grooves and depressions on the chewing surfaces of your back teeth can be challenging to clean thoroughly. These areas are where most cavities form! Tooth sealants can protect these vulnerable spots by sealing the grooves and preventing bacteria and food from getting stuck. We usually apply resin-based sealants to molars, premolars, and other areas prone to cavities. Sealants can last several years but should be checked during regular appointments at Maplewood Dental Associates.
Fluoride is essential for strengthening teeth and making them more resistant to decay. Drinking water with fluoride and using fluoride toothpaste can greatly reduce your chances of getting cavities. Our dentists can check the fluoride levels in your drinking water and recommend supplements (like tablets or drops) if needed.
Thumb sucking is a natural behavior that comforts babies and toddlers. Most kids stop this habit when their permanent teeth begin to come in, usually between ages two and four. If thumb sucking continues beyond this age, it can affect jaw growth and tooth alignment.
Here are some tips to help your child stop thumb-sucking:
If thumb sucking continues, talk to one of our dentists about early dental care at Maplewood Dental Associates!
With top-notch technology and years of experience, Maplewood Dental Associates is ready to provide you and your family with the best cosmetic dentistry in Maplewood, St. Paul, and the surrounding areas. We offer a variety of treatments for patients of all ages and are committed to helping you find the right plan for your needs! Whether you need a routine cleaning, teeth whitening, or other cosmetic treatments, reach out to us at (651) 770-3831 or request an appointment using our online form. We look forward to providing you and your family with expert dental care!
