Serving areas of Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI
If you have an impending dental appointment, it’s natural to have questions you want to address with your dentist. But, you might forget these important talking points by the time you show up at the dentist office. Dr. Christine Tenaglia wants to help patients maximize their visit by sharing five questions to ask your Okemos family dentist at your next appointment.
How can I improve my oral health at home?
Brushing your teeth a minimum of twice per day and flossing at least once a day helps maintain good oral health. Increasing the frequency of brushing and flossing after every meal or after consuming sugary or sticky foods should help reduce bacteria that cause tooth or gum damage. Another aspect of at-home care is changing your toothbrush every three to four months. A worn-out toothbrush isn’t effective. Also, eating a well-balanced diet filled with tooth-protecting foods such as raw vegetables, fresh fruit, and dairy products should help keep your teeth clean. Regularly consuming water to promote hydration could provide needed fluoride that strengthens teeth.
What causes tooth sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity has various causes and is a common problem among adults. Receding gums, cavities, broken fillings, cracked teeth, or damaged tooth enamel could be the cause of tooth sensitivity. Most of the causes extend from the lack of proper dental care and poor diet. Therefore, to help prevent against sensitivity, your leading dental provider in East Lansing at Tenaglia Smiles advises practicing regular oral care. If you still experience heightened sensitivity, try switching to a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth, and swapping your toothbrush to a soft-bristled version. After making these simple changes, you notice no difference or the sensitivity worsens, contact Dr. Tenaglia for an appointment as there could be additional concerns that need to be addressed.
What are the warning signs of gum disease?
Most patients have heard of gum disease but are not aware of the disease details or what symptoms could occur. The most common warning signs are red and swollen gums that are tender to the touch, persistent bad breath, excessive bleeding from the gums when brushing or flossing. Also, gum disease could cause teeth to loosen to the point that total tooth removal is necessary. If you notice warning signs of gum disease, visit your Okemos family dentist for treatment to stop the progression of the disease.
How do I care for my baby’s teeth, and when should they first visit the dentist?
As a new parent, caring for a baby might seem overwhelming. Infant oral care is simple, just use a warm washcloth to wipe your baby’s gums after each feeding. Use an age-appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste to brush their teeth once they emerge from the gum line. The ADA recommends children have their first dental visit by their first birthday. Implementing good oral hygiene habits early on should help establish healthy oral health care habits that last a lifetime.
How can I improve my smile?
There definitely is not a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. If you want to improve your smile, Dr. Tenaglia will assess your oral health, and consider the concerns you have regarding your smile to work with you on the best solutions. Improving your smile can be an automatic confidence booster. Having a confident smile starts with good oral hygiene, but Dr. Tenaglia also offers cosmetic solutions that can help. Popular cosmetic treatments offered by Dr. Tenaglia include, dental crowns, dental implants, veneers, Invisalign aligners, and other comprehensive services to get your smile red carpet ready.
Family Dentist in Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI
Whether you are concerned with daily oral health care and its impact on your overall health or need a smile makeover, it’s important to maintain an open conversation with your dentist regarding your dental health. If you need a checkup or cleaning or are looking for smile restoration options, feel free to contact Tenaglia Smiles by calling (517) 347-6733 or schedule an appointment online today!