Your toothbrush will eventually wear out, especially if you are brushing your teeth twice a day for two to three minutes each time. Your dentist recommends that adults and children change their toothbrush every three months. If you are using an electric toothbrush, be sure to read the directions because you may not need to change toothbrush heads as frequently. Patients with gum disease are encouraged to change their toothbrush every four to six weeks to keep any bacteria from spreading. After brushing, rinse your toothbrush with hot water to kill germs and keep the bristles clean. If you’ve been sick, be sure to change your toothbrush as soon as possible.

Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is mostly caused by plaque and bacteria buildup that is not treated in its early stage. Other causes of periodontal disease include tobacco use, teeth grinding, some medications, and genetics. Gingivitis is the beginning stage of gum disease, and, if detected, is treatable. Gingivitis left untreated may turn into gum disease. Advanced gum disease will lead to tooth and bone loss, and is a permanent condition. Brushing your teeth regularly and visiting the dentist every six months will help prevent gingivitis and more severe cases of periodontal disease. Common signs of gum disease:

• Red, irritated, bleeding, or swollen gums
• Chronic bad breath
• Loose teeth, or loss of teeth
• Extreme tooth sensitivity
• Receding gum line
• Abscessed teeth

Click here to learn more about Periodontal Therapy at Westover Family Dental.

Yes! In fact, it’s even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can’t reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.

Simply call our practice or use the button below! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next dental checkup at your convenience. If you are a new patient, please let us know and we will provide you with all the information you need for your first dental visit.

Dental implants are metal posts surgically placed into the upper and lower jawbone. They are used to replace one or more teeth, and in some occasions, all teeth lost due to disease or an accident.

Click here to learn more about Dental Implant Services at Westover Family Dental.

If you are in good general health, have enough jawbone, and don’t use tobacco of any kind, an implant could be a successful treatment option for you.

Generally speaking, periodontists and oral surgeons are the ones placing implants as they have gone through extensive and formal training for such treatment. However, depending on the area of the mouth, the amount of adequate jawbone, and the complexity of your situation, many dentists can place implants as well.

• They won’t shift or slip in your mouth
• They feel more natural than removable dentures due to their secure fit
• Single tooth implants are stand-alone units and won’t require the treatment of the adjacent teeth.
• They are easier to clean and maintain than bridges and removable dentures
• They can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene

Our consultation visits typically last an hour during which we examine the area/s with missing teeth, take a three-dimensional x-ray of the jawbone, and walk you through every step of the treatment in detail. Your treatment will be as painless as possible thanks to the various anesthesia and sedation options we have available.