Why Advanced Dental Care is Key to Long-Term Oral Health

Dentist in Bellingham, WA

Maintaining good oral health requires more than basic brushing and flossing; it necessitates advanced dental care.

Regular visits to the dentist and utilizing various cosmetic dental services ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy, and any potential issues are addressed before they escalate. This blog explores how specific advanced dental procedures contribute to long-term oral health.

Understanding Advanced Dental Care

Advanced dental care refers to the use of innovative techniques and tools to promote optimal oral health. This can include cosmetic dental services designed not only for aesthetic enhancement but also for functional improvement. While traditional dental care focuses on routine check-ups and cleanings, advanced treatments offer patients solutions that can significantly improve their quality of life.

The Importance of Regular Visits

Regular dental check-ups are essential for identifying issues early. Many oral health problems, such as gum disease and cavities, can develop without noticeable symptoms.

By scheduling routine visits, dentists can provide preventive care, conduct thorough examinations, and recommend advanced options when necessary. Procedures like gum disease therapy can prevent more severe complications, while also contributing to the maintenance of a healthy mouth.

Advanced Cosmetic Dental Services

One of the most significant benefits of advanced dental care is the range of cosmetic dental services available. These services not only enhance the aesthetics of your smile but also contribute to overall oral health.

Teeth Whitening Solutions

Teeth whitening solutions have gained popularity as many seek to improve the appearance of their smiles. Stains can accumulate over time, leading to a dull and aged appearance. Professional teeth whitening treatments can restore brightness effectively, and when combined with good brushing practices, they keep smiles looking vibrant.

Porcelain Dental Veneers

Porcelain dental veneers are another advanced treatment option that serves both cosmetic and functional purposes. These thin shells are custom-made to cover the front surface of teeth, providing an instant solution for issues like chips, stains, and misalignment. By choosing porcelain veneers, patients can enhance their confidence while preventing potential problems associated with exposed tooth surfaces.

Full Smile Makeover

For those seeking extensive improvements, a full smile makeover combines several advanced treatments. It may incorporate teeth whitening, veneers, and even orthodontics like Invisalign aligners. A full smile makeover is tailored to each patient, ensuring their specific needs are met while delivering a complete oral health upgrade.

Comprehensive Solutions for Long-Term Oral Health

A holistic approach to dental care involves addressing both cosmetic and structural concerns. Several procedures play key roles in this strategy.

Dental Implant Procedures

Dental implant procedures have revolutionized the way we think about tooth replacement. Implants not only replace missing teeth but also provide structural support to maintain jawbone integrity. Choosing implants can prevent long-term oral health issues associated with missing teeth, such as bite misalignment and jawbone deterioration.

Invisalign Aligners

Invisalign aligners are a modern orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth discreetly. Unlike traditional metal braces, these clear aligners offer a comfortable option for adults and children alike. Proper alignment not only improves appearance but also plays a crucial role in long-term oral health by aiding proper chewing and reducing the risk of jaw issues.

Root Canal Procedures

When decay extends into the pulp of a tooth, root canal procedures become necessary. While often feared, this treatment is vital for preserving the natural tooth and preventing further complications. By addressing infections and protecting the tooth structure, root canals contribute to long-term health and comfort.

Addressing Gum Health

Gum disease therapy is an essential component of advanced dental care. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other systemic health issues if left untreated. Regular cleanings, deep cleanings, and laser therapy techniques can effectively manage and reverse gum disease, securing a healthy foundation for the teeth.

Final Thoughts

Advanced dental care, including various cosmetic dental services, is paramount for maintaining long-term oral health.

From teeth whitening solutions and porcelain dental veneers to comprehensive gum disease therapy, these treatments not only enhance smiles but also protect against future problems.

By prioritizing advanced dental care and being proactive about oral health, you can confidently ensure a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.

What You Should Know About Dental Cleanings and Why They Matter

Dentist in Bellingham, WA

Dental cleanings are an essential aspect of oral health that should not be overlooked. They play a critical role in maintaining the cleanliness of our teeth and gums, which ultimately contributes to overall body health.

This post will delve into the importance of routine dental cleaning, the different types of procedures, and how they aid in plaque removal, tartar removal, and gum disease prevention.

Understanding Routine Dental Cleaning

Routine dental cleaning is a preventive dental care practice recommended for everyone, regardless of age. Typically, it involves a visit to your dentist or dental hygienist every six months. During this visit, professionals perform various cleanings and checks to ensure your oral health is in top condition.

The cleaning process begins with a gentle examination of your mouth where your dentist looks for signs of plaque and tartar buildup and other oral health issues. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and can harden into tartar if not removed promptly. Regular cleanings help eliminate plaque before it has the chance to turn into tartar, which requires more intensive tartar removal procedures.

The Importance of Plaque and Tartar Removal

Both plaque and tartar can lead to serious dental issues if left untreated. Plaque buildup can cause cavities, and as it accumulates, it can lead to gum disease, which is one of the most common reasons for tooth loss in adults.

Tartar, on the other hand, is plaque that has hardened on the teeth. It is much more challenging to remove than plaque and often requires professional cleaning. Tartar removal is vital not only for aesthetic reasons but also for your overall health, as it can harbor bacteria that adversely affect your gums and teeth. By undergoing routine dental cleaning, you are actively participating in gum disease prevention and reducing your risk of tooth decay.

The Process of Deep Teeth Cleaning

While routine dental cleaning is generally recommended twice a year, some individuals may require deep teeth cleaning, also known as scaling and root planning. This is necessary for patients who exhibit signs of gum disease or have excessive tartar buildup. Deep teeth cleaning involves cleaning the tooth surface beneath the gum line and smoothing the roots of the teeth, making it more challenging for bacteria to adhere and reducing the risk of further gum disease.

Deep teeth cleaning can seem like a daunting task, but it’s crucial in the fight against advanced gum disease. It can help restore gum health and prevent the progression of periodontal disease, which can lead to severe complications if not addressed.

Teeth Cleaning Benefits

There are numerous benefits to routine dental cleaning, far beyond just having sparkling teeth. Here are some notable teeth-cleaning benefits:

  1. Prevention of Cavities: Regular cleanings help remove the plaque build-up that could otherwise lead to cavities.
  2. Gum Disease Prevention: By keeping your gums clear of plaque and tartar, you significantly reduce the risk of gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis.
  3. Fresh Breath: Dental cleanings eliminate the bacteria that contribute to bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling fresh.
  4. Early Detection of Oral Issues: Dental professionals can identify early signs of oral issues, including decay and diseases, during routine cleanings.
  5. Overall Health Improvement: Good oral hygiene and regular cleanings can improve your overall health, as oral health is closely linked to various systemic conditions, including heart disease and diabetes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, routine dental cleaning serves a vital role in maintaining optimal oral health. Through proactive plaque removal, effective tartar removal, and necessary deep teeth cleaning when needed, individuals can protect themselves from gum disease and other dental complications.

Incorporating preventative dental care into your routine could not only keep your smile shining but also contribute positively to your overall health. Embrace the routine and the benefits it brings – because a healthy mouth leads to a healthy life.


How Preventive Dentistry Can Save You Time and Money

Dentist in Bellingham, WA

Preventive dentistry is an essential aspect of maintaining optimal oral health. Regular dental care not only enhances your smile but also ensures that you avoid complex procedures in the future. By focusing on prevention, you can save both time and money, and this blog post will outline the various ways preventive dentistry achieves that.

Understanding Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dentistry encompasses various practices that aim to maintain good dental hygiene and oral health. These practices include regular dental checkups, X-rays, teeth cleaning, fluoride treatments, and education on dental care tips. By regularly engaging in these practices, you reduce the risk of developing serious dental issues, potentially leading to significant savings in both time and money.

The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups

One of the cornerstones of preventive dentistry is the dental checkup. These routine visits typically involve a comprehensive dental exam and full mouth series of x-rays where your dentist assesses your overall oral health. During these assessments, any early signs of gum disease or cavities can be identified and treated before they escalate.

Regular dental exams are also vital for monitoring your dental hygiene. Your dentist can offer personalized dental care tips tailored to your specific needs, ultimately enhancing your oral health and preventing more severe complications down the line.

Teeth Cleaning: An Essential Preventive Measure

Teeth cleaning is another critical component of preventive dentistry. During these sessions, the dental hygienist reviews medical histories, takes x-rays, completes periodontal assessment, removes plaque and tartar, goes over Oral Health Instruction, applies Fluoride and answers all questions the patients may have.

By maintaining a consistent teeth cleaning schedule, you are investing time upfront to ensure your dental hygiene is in peak condition. This proactive approach means you’re less likely to require extensive treatments later, saving you both time spent in the dentist’s chair and money on potential procedures.

The Role of Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments are an important preventive measure that can significantly contribute to cavity prevention. Fluoride strengthens the enamel of your teeth, making them more resistant to the bacteria that cause decay. Regular fluoride treatments can aid in protecting your teeth, especially for those at higher risk for cavities.

Moreover, fluoride is often applied during routine checkups, meaning you can benefit from this treatment without needing a separate appointment. By keeping up with fluoride treatments, you can reduce your chances of needing fillings or other dental work, ultimately saving you money.

Gum Disease Prevention

Preventive dentistry is instrumental in gum disease prevention. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss, systemic health issues, and costly treatments. By focusing on maintaining good dental hygiene, engaging in regular checkups, and receiving professional cleanings, you significantly lower your risk of developing gum disease.

Your dentist and hygienist can provide targeted advice on brushing and flossing effectively to prevent gum disease. Following these dental care tips can improve your daily habits, ensuring the longevity of your natural teeth and enhancing overall oral health.

The Financial Benefits of Preventive Dentistry

Investing in preventive dentistry pays off in the long run. Dental procedures such as root canals, crowns, or periodontal treatments can be expensive and time-consuming. By prioritizing dental checkups and routine cleaning, you can avoid these invasive treatments, thereby preserving your budget and your schedule.

Many dental insurance plans emphasize the importance of preventive care by covering a significant portion of routine checkups and cleanings. This often leaves patients with minimal out-of-pocket costs for these essential services. Thus, neglecting preventive dentistry might result in higher expenses in the future—a cost-saving strategy you don’t want to overlook.

Final Thoughts

Preventive dentistry is a significant investment in your future oral health. By adhering to dental hygiene practices, scheduling regular dental checkups, investing in teeth cleaning and fluoride treatments, and following dental care tips, you can ensure that your smile remains healthy and vibrant.

The benefits of preventive care are evident: fewer dental problems, reduced treatment costs, and less time spent at the dentist. Protect your oral health by prioritizing preventive dentistry today. It’s an investment that pays dividends in both time and money, allowing you to enjoy a lifetime of healthier smiles.


Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation: Restoring Function & Aesthetics

Dentist in Bellingham, WA

Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation is an extensive procedure aimed at restoring the function and aesthetics of your mouth.

Whether due to injury, decay, or other dental issues, this comprehensive approach allows individuals to regain their confidence through complete oral rehabilitation.

In this blog post, we will explore what Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation entails, the procedures involved, and the significant benefits it offers for both functionality and aesthetics.

Understanding Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation

To truly grasp the significance of Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation, it’s essential to understand its scope. This process is designed to address multiple dental issues and restore the mouth to optimum health. It entails a series of treatments that may include dental implants, crowns, veneers, and other procedures aimed at correcting bite issues, tooth loss, and cosmetic imperfections.

The goal of Complete Oral Rehabilitation is to not only enhance the appearance but also improve overall oral function. Patients with difficulties such as chewing, speaking, or discomfort due to missing or damaged teeth can benefit immensely from this rehabilitation.

The Importance of Full Mouth Dental Implants

One of the key components of Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation is Full Mouth Dental Implants. Implants serve as a permanent solution for those who have lost teeth, offering stability and durability that traditional dentures may not provide. The procedure involves placing titanium posts into the jawbone, acting as roots for replacement teeth.

These implants can support individual crowns, bridges, or even full arch replacements, giving patients a natural look and feel. The integration of dental implants into a Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation plan signifies a long-term investment into a patient’s oral health, impacting their ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Comprehensive Dental Rehabilitation Procedures

Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation involves a series of tailored procedures tailored closely to the individual needs of the patient. The following are some common treatments included in the complete oral rehabilitation plan:

Dental Implants

As mentioned earlier, Full Mouth Dental Implants provide a sturdy foundation for new teeth. Patients opting for this treatment relish the feeling of having a full set of teeth without the discomfort traditionally associated with removable dentures.

Crowns and Bridges

Crowns may be used to cover damaged or decayed teeth, while bridges help fill gaps left by missing teeth. Both of these treatments play an integral role in restoring function and improving aesthetics in a full-mouth rehabilitation plan.

Veneers

Veneers are thin shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth. They can address issues like discoloration, chips, or gaps, offering a flawless smile that enhances overall facial aesthetics, playing a significant role in smile rehabilitation.

Orthodontics

In some cases, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to align teeth properly before other restorative methods are employed. This may involve braces or aligners to ensure that your bite and smile are perfected.

Benefits of a Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation

The impact of undergoing Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation extends far beyond mere appearances. Here are some noteworthy advantages:

Improved Functionality

One of the most significant improvements from a Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation is increased functionality. With the restoration of teeth, patients can chew more effectively, enjoy their favorite foods, and speak clearly again.

Enhanced Aesthetics

Undoubtedly, one of the most rewarding aspects of dental rehabilitation is an improved smile. Patients often report enhanced self-esteem and confidence when they can smile freely without feeling self-conscious about their teeth.

Long-Term Health

By addressing multiple dental issues at once, patients can protect themselves from further oral health complications. Complete Oral Rehabilitation serves to promote better dental hygiene, preventing future issues like gum disease or tooth decay.

Individualized Treatment

Every patient is unique, and that’s why a Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation plan is customized specifically to meet individual needs. This bespoke approach ensures that each treatment contributes effectively to the overall goal of restoration.

Final Thoughts

Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation is a life-changing option for those struggling with multiple dental issues.

Through a combination of Full Mouth Dental Implants, crowns, veneers, and other restorative procedures, patients can achieve a new level of functionality and aesthetics in their oral health.

If you’re considering a transformation for your smile or addressing functional problems, speak with your dentist about the possibilities of dental rehabilitation. A renewed smile is just around the corner, ready to give you back your confidence and quality of life.



What is Periodontal Disease?

Dentist in Bellingham, WA

Periodontal disease ranges from a mild inflammation of the gum tissues to periodontitis, a major oral disease that can result in soft tissue and bone damage. Periodontitis is the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the United States.  

One of the major causes of gum disease is practicing poor oral hygiene habits. Daily brushing and flossing and regular professional exams and cleanings are essential to maintaining optimal oral health. When these practices are not followed, plaque can form on the teeth and along the gumline. If this plaque is not properly removed, it may harden over time and become tartar. Once that occurs, only a dental professional can remove the tartar from teeth. 

If gum disease is not treated in a timely manner, tartar may continue to build unchecked. When this occurs, the gum disease may advance to gingivitis. In this stage, gums redden, swell, and become prone to bleeding from normal activities, such as brushing or eating. Some other common symptoms include: chronic halitosis (bad breath), sensitive teeth, and difficulty or pain with chewing. At this point, professional periodontal treatment is needed to prevent the gingivitis from advancing to periodontitis. 

When gingivitis is not treated in time, it may become periodontitis. Periodontitis is the most advanced form of periodontal disease. With periodontitis, gums begin to pull away from the teeth, creating small “pockets” along the gumline. These spaces are highly difficult to clean without professional intervention and can lead to rapid worsening in overall oral health. Without prompt and thorough treatment, bone, gums, and soft tissues may be destroyed by periodontitis. 

Some of the most common factors that contribute to periodontal disease developing include poor oral hygiene habits, diabetes, smoking, and hormonal changes in women. Some medications can cause gum tissue to grow abnormally, which can increase difficulty in proper cleaning of the teeth. People who are receiving treatment for AIDS are also at increased risk of developing periodontal disease. 

Many recent studies have found that untreated periodontal disease may negatively impact other aspects of your overall health, especially for patients with cardiovascular disease or diabetes. Periodontal disease can also increase the risk of developing certain pregnancy complications, such as low birth weight or premature birth. 

Our doctor has the training and experience to diagnose and treat every stage of periodontal disease. If you have symptoms of periodontal disease, contact our office to schedule a consultation.

Changing Your Spots: White Areas on Teeth

Dentist in Bellingham, WA

White spots on your teeth can be irritating and affect how you feel about your smile. The good news, however, is that they are preventable and rarely cause for concern. Here are things you should know about what causes white spots, how to prevent them, and what options are available should you already have them. 

What causes white spots on teeth? 

1.       Dental Fluorosis This can happen when a child consumes or is exposed to too much fluoride during the development of their teeth. While undesirable, this is harmless and can happen before teeth even emerge. The most common cause of fluorosis in the US is the use or ingestion of too much toothpaste. 

2.       Poor Dental Hygiene – Forgetting to brush regularly can cause white spots to develop. 

3.       Braces – Wearing braces for an extended time can affect the coloration of your teeth and create white spots.  

4.       Acidic or Sugary Foods – These foods can damage your teeth as well as change the color of their enamel. Rinsing your mouth after you consuming acidic or sugary items can help negate these effects. 

How can I prevent them from appearing? 

Following a proper oral hygiene regimen is the best way to prevent white spots on teeth. Ensure your child uses the correct amount of toothpaste – children under 3 should use a smear the size of a rice grain, and children over 3 should not use more than a pea-sized amount. It is common for children to accidentally swallow or fail to spit out toothpaste, so be sure to supervise your child as they are learning. 

What are options for treatment? 

If you are already dealing with white spots, you have options. Whitening or bleaching can make the coloration of your teeth more uniform. Dental veneers can restore the entire appearance of your teeth, solving not just the problem of white spots. In some cases, topical fluoride or enamel microabrasion upon the white spots themselves can do the trick.  

Our doctor will recommend the optimal solution for treating white spots on your teeth. Contact our office for a consultation today.

Should You Brush Right After Eating?

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Enamel is the guardian of your teeth and the hardest material in the body. It’s the first defense against harmful bacteria which may lead to tooth decay. When you eat certain foods, it creates bacteria which attack your tooth enamel. Carbohydrates and sugary foods are examples of these foods. Brushing directly after eating can be harmful to your enamel. 

Why this is a problem 

When eating or drinking, the pH balance in your mouth changes. After each bite of acidic food, the pH balance moves towards a level which causes demineralization. The new acidity softens the enamel which can cause bacteria to get into the teeth. Brushing right after you eat may damage your enamel. This is important because enamel protects your teeth from damage.   

Steps you can take to protect your enamel: 

• If you’ve had anything acidic, don’t brush for at least 30 minutes.  Fruits with citric acid are one example. If you are planning ingesting acidic foods or drinks, you can brush beforehand. 

• A glass of water will help remove the acid. Follow this by chewing sugarless gum. These steps help create saliva which will help bring back the necessary pH balance needed for a healthy smile. 

• Try to avoid soda as prolonged phosphoric acid can cause permanent damage. 

• Brushing your teeth twice a day is an important habit for optimal oral health.  

Have you ever been told you should brush your teeth right after eating? While this may sound like the right habit to adapt, this practice could be detrimental to the health of your teeth. Rinsing your mouth with water after eating may be a better option to keep enamel strong. Visit our office for an exam and we can give you for tips for healthy, strong teeth. Call our office today. 

The One Piece of Gear Every Athlete Needs 

Dentist in Bellingham, WA

An injury to your mouth can be a painful, expensive experience. For athletes, mouth and tooth injuries are a very real risk. Mouthguards are an excellent tool for protecting your mouth from injury and harm. Our team can help you find a solution that protects your teeth while you play. 

Why Wear a Mouthguard? 

Mouthguards protect your teeth. For athletes, injuries to the mouth can cause cracked teeth, or even worse, missing teeth. Additionally, your mouth is mostly made up of soft tissues, such as your tongue, inside cheeks, and lips. These areas can become injured or pierced when playing sports. Mouthguards help defend your mouth and teeth against such injuries.  

Do All Athletes Need a Mouthguard? 

Yes. High-contact sports such as hockey, wrestling, football, and boxing pose the greatest risk for mouth injuries. However, all athletes can benefit from being cautious. Gymnasts should consider wearing one to protect their mouth in the event of a fall. Baseball and basketball players should protect themselves from being injured by a ball or collision with another player. Mouthguards should be treated as a necessary piece of your athletic gear, no matter which sport you play. 

Which Mouthguard Is the Most Effective? 

Our team can help you during your next visit to our office. There are many options available, ranging from store-bought to custom-fitted mouthguards. We will work with you to determine which type of mouthguard is best for you. It is important that any guard fits properly.  

If you are currently receiving orthodontic treatment, we may recommend a special type of  mouthguard. Braces can puncture your mouth if impacted, particularly during sports. Our team will help you find a solution that works. 

Prevention is the best solution to oral sports injuries. Contact our office and ask about finding a mouthguard that is right for you.  For questions or to schedule an appointment, please click here to contact us. 

Saving Your Smile During COVID-19

Dentist in Bellingham, WA

One morning this past September, I noticed something strange: my front tooth was chipped. It wasn’t an extreme chip, just a little notch in the corner, but it created a jagged edge I could feel with my tongue and that was noticeable up-close.  

I didn’t think much of the chip. I figured I’d cracked it on a popcorn kernel, or while absentmindedly chewing on a pen cap. It didn’t seem like a big deal, until I visited the dentist a few weeks later.  

I was there for a routine cleaning, but as soon as I opened my mouth, the dental hygienist asked me a question I’d never been asked before: Did I grind my teeth? 

I told her that, as far as I knew, I had never ground my teeth.  

“Have you been waking up with headaches?” she asked.  

I answered yes, because I had been waking up with headaches, but had ascribed them to the general stress of living in a pandemic in the wake of a momentous presidential election.    

“You’re probably grinding your teeth,” the hygienist said, and then showed me, with a mirror, all the places where I had ground away at my canines and molars. I was mortified, not only that I had done so much damage to my own teeth, but that I had done it without even noticing.   

Grinding, Clenching, and Mask-Mouth 

As it turns out, my story is reflective of a larger trend. Dr. Aimée Werremeyer of Love Dentistry in Bellingham has seen a huge increase in chipped and fractured teeth since the pandemic began — in fact, it’s been the number one thing people call in about. Some weeks she sees a new tooth fracture every day. She’s even seen cases of lock-jaw. The culprit? Teeth-grinding and jaw clenching, known technically as bruxism.  

“Everyone is under so much stress, we’re taking it out on our teeth and don’t even know that we’re doing it,” says Dr. Werremeyer. 

While stress is a primary cause of bruxism, additional factors also come into play. A New York Times article about the recent uptick in tooth fractures noted poor posture from at-home work stations and lack of sleep as two other contributing causes.  

Another concern among dentists is something referred to as “mask mouth.” While masks are mandatory and essential to slowing the spread of COVID-19, they also interfere with our normal mouth behavior.  

When we wear a mask, Dr. Werremeyer explains, we open our mouth wider than we normally would, in an attempt to breathe and talk better. This leads to issues with our jaw, but also mouth dryness, which causes a slew of nasty side effects.  

Saliva plays a critical role in oral health. It fights bacteria, cleanses teeth, and neutralizes acid in the mouth, thus preventing gum disease and decay. When our mouth is dry, saliva isn’t doing this work, leaving our teeth and gums vulnerable to harmful bacteria. Symptoms of mask mouth include gingivitis, tooth decay, halitosis (sour breath), receding gum lines, and bruxism. While bad in their own right, gum disease and periodontal disease can also contribute to heart disease and stroke.  

“Our mouths are connected to our whole digestive track,” Dr. Werremeyer explains. “If your mouth has yucky bacteria, that gets into your digestive system…and weakens your immune system.” 

Protecting Your Smile 

Luckily, there’s a lot one can do to maintain oral hygiene during the pandemic.   

When it comes to grinding and clenching, Dr. Werremeyer suggests buying an occlusal guard, such as a nightguard or daytime splint. You can find versions of these at your local pharmacy, or have your dentist create a custom mold. A custom-made mold from your dentist will be thinner and less likely to irritate you at night. 

While occlusal guards prevent you from damaging your teeth, it’s also important to address the cause of the grinding, namely stress and anxiety. Dr. Werremeyer’s suggestion is simple but poignant: Take care of yourself.  

“I think self-care is huge right now, so that we can destress, finding those things that make us happy and make us feel good about ourselves,” Dr. Werremeyer explains. 

In some instances, Dr. Werremeyer has also referred patients to physical therapists and massage therapists, to address tension in the temporomandibular joint.  

Since masks are non-negotiable given the times, here are some things you can do to avoid the effects of mask mouth: 

  • Drink more water  
  • Try to breathe through your nose when wearing a mask  
  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which are dehydrating 
  • Use alcohol-free mouthwash (those with alcohol, like Listerine, can dry out your mouth) 
  • Use a humidifier, especially in your work place or in you room while sleeping 
  • Scrape or brush your tongue 
  • Avoid smoking, which dries out the mouth 

See Your Dentist 

One of the best things you can do for your dental health is visit the dentist. A daunting task under normal circumstances — in a 2018 survey, more than 40% of American reported not seeing the dentist as frequently as they would prefer — maintaining oral hygiene is more important than ever.  

“As much as patients are scared to go to the dentist, it’s also what will help increase our immune system,” Dr. Werremeyer says.  

Those wary of visiting a place that traffics in open mouths can take comfort knowing most dental offices are going above and beyond to make sure their clinics are safe and clean.  

At Love Dentistry, Dr. Werremeyer has implemented various safety protocols and equipment. Her office has begun using air purifiers, extra oral vacuums to pick up aerosols, and a mouth rinse that kills localized bacteria and viruses. Staff is required to change into new clothes between each patient, clean the bathroom after every use, and undergo daily screenings and temperature-checks. Check-in occurs in the parking lot and anyone in the waiting room must wear a mask. 

These precautions must be working; according to recent data, no COVID-19 transfers have occurred in a dental setting in the U.S.  

“Find your favorite dentist, and ask for help, and make sure that you’re preventing any of these things from causing irreversible damage,” Dr. Werremeyer says.

Love Dentistry
4101 Eliza Ave. Bellingham, WA 98226
(360) 752-1600

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Dentist in Bellingham, WA

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