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Why Should You Choose An Electric Toothbrush?

Posted November 6, 2024 in Dentistry

There are so many toothbrush options available today, from bamboo toothbrushes to classic manual ones. There are also a variety of electric toothbrushes available, including battery-powered brushes, sonic systems, and other powered selections. This blog will explore the various toothbrush options and discuss why electric toothbrushes are superior for cleaning your teeth and maximizing your oral health.

4 Min Read:

A Closer Look at Toothbrush Types

There’s no shortage of toothbrush options, each with its own advantages. To help with your decision, let’s examine the main types:

  • Manual toothbrushes: They’ve been a staple in homes for decades. However, manual toothbrushes rely entirely on your brushing technique. This often leads to missed spots if you’re not careful. What’s more, you’re more likely to brush too hard and damage your gums with a manual brush.
  • Bamboo toothbrushes: Eco-friendly and growing in popularity, bamboo toothbrushes are similar to manual brushes but are more sustainable. While they’re great for the environment, they don’t offer any significant advantage when it comes to cleaning power.
  • Electric toothbrushes: These brushes automate the cleaning process. They have oscillating, rotating, or vibrating bristles to help you achieve a much deeper clean with less effort.

For those seeking the most effective clean, electric toothbrushes are the clear winner.

The Benefits of Choosing an Electric Toothbrush

Electric toothbrushes bring several advantages to your dental routine that can make a world of difference.

More Effective Plaque Removal

Electric toothbrushes take your brushing to the next level. Studies show they remove more plaque than manual brushes, reaching areas that are difficult to clean by hand. The high-speed bristle movements clean the surface of your teeth. They also clean between them and along the gum line, making sure your entire mouth benefits.

Think of it like washing a car. While a sponge will do the job, using a pressure washer will always give you a more thorough clean with much less effort. Similarly, an electric toothbrush gets into the hard-to-reach spots with ease.

Timers for Better Habits

Brushing for two full minutes can feel like a long time, especially without a guide. Most electric toothbrushes include built-in timers that keep you on track. These timers help you make sure every part of your mouth gets the care it needs without rushing.

Easier for People with Mobility Issues

Anyone who struggles with dexterity—due to arthritis, injury, aging, or other conditions—can find electric toothbrushes a game changer. Since the brush does most of the work, all you need to do is guide it across your teeth.

Encourages Consistent Use

Electric toothbrushes offer features that motivate better habits. For example, pressure sensors let you know when you’re brushing too hard and prevent unnecessary damage to your gums. With features such as reminders to change brush heads, it becomes easier to stay consistent with oral hygiene. Over time, these small adjustments lead to healthier, stronger teeth.

Tailored Settings for Your Needs

You can customize electric toothbrushes to meet your oral health needs. It doesn’t matter if you require softer bristles for sensitive gums or a more intense mode for whitening, there’s an electric toothbrush to suit you.

How Do You Pick the Best Electric Toothbrush for Your Needs?

Now that you know why an electric toothbrush is the best choice, what should you look for when selecting one?

  • Opt for soft bristles to prevent gum damage if you have sensitive teeth.
  • Choose a brush with long-lasting power if you don’t want the hassle of frequent charging.
  • Depending on your needs, you may want a toothbrush with multiple modes, such as a sensitive setting or one designed for deeper cleaning.

While some electric toothbrushes are more expensive upfront, think of them as an investment in your dental health. The cost is often justified by the long-term benefits they deliver.

If you’re unsure where to start, ask Dr. Tomazin for electric toothbrush recommendations during your next dentist appointment.

Ready for Electric Dental Care in Riverside, CA?

Upgrading to an electric toothbrush is a simple way to improve your oral hygiene routine. It’s an investment in your dental health and long-term well-being that makes brushing easier and more effective.

Seeking advice? Contact Dr. Tomazin today at (951) 686-3666 or visit our contact page to learn how to take your brushing routine to the next level.


How to Remove Stains From Teeth

Posted October 21, 2024 in Oral health, Teeth Whitening
Close up of a female smiling.

We all try our best to prevent tooth discoloration by practicing good oral hygiene and caring for our teeth. Many of us visit our dentist every six months and modify our eating habits by avoiding sugary foods and drinks. However, sometimes genetics, lifestyle choices, or other factors make tooth stains inevitable. If you have tooth discoloration, there are several treatments available to remove these pesky stains. This blog discusses common tooth stain types and different treatments that can brighten teeth and reduce the appearance of stains. 

3 Min Read:

Common Types of Tooth Stains

Tooth stains generally fall into three different categories:

  • Intrinsic: An intrinsic tooth stain usually appears grayish. Certain medications or tooth decay can cause this type of stain, which is located within the tooth. With this type of stain, visiting a dentist for proper treatment is highly recommended.
  • Extrinsic: Extrinsic tooth stains, usually caused by certain foods and beverages, are found on the surface of the tooth or in the tooth enamel.
  • Age-related: The enamel on your teeth wears away as you age, resulting in a yellowish appearance. Both intrinsic and extrinsic factors can also lead to age-related teeth discoloration.

Common Causes of Tooth Stains

According to the National Library of Medicine, tobacco can lead to tooth discoloration. Smokers may develop tobacco stains, which can be dark brown, yellow, brown, and even black stains. 

Certain foods and drinks can also discolor teeth, and the most common culprits include:

  • Tea
  • Coffee
  • Red wine
  • Chocolate
  • Red sauces

Medications like antibiotics may also cause tooth discoloration. The teeth can also discolor with age, especially when you don’t regularly visit your dentist.

Sugary drinks, poor oral hygiene, and certain medications often cause the yellow stain in your teeth. If your teeth turn brown, it’s likely also due to certain food drinks such as coffee or tea, fruits such as blackberries or blueberries, tartar buildup, and untreated tooth decay. Liquid iron supplements or an advanced dental cavity usually cause a black tooth stain.

How to Treat Tooth Discoloration

Professional teeth whitening can restore the natural color of your teeth. There are three general types of teeth whitening treatments that, when combined with proper dental hygiene, can help you maintain a bright smile.

Bleaching

With bleaching, carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide are used to remove the stains in your teeth. It’s one of the most effective ways to whiten teeth and is a safe method that treats the tooth’s enamel, resulting in whiter teeth and a more youthful smile

At-Home Whitening

At-home whitening options can include custom-fitted bleaching trays or whitening strips—both are effective at whitening teeth. This method is perfect for those who want to improve their smile in the privacy of their own home. Dr. Chad Tomazin and his team offer options to complete the treatment in two weeks with a choice between 35% and 22% bleach.

In-Office Whitening

In-office teeth whitening treatment can result in faster results; your teeth can be whitened after just one visit. Dr. Tomazin uses the Venus White® Venus Max Whitening System, which only takes about two hours to complete. Included in the treatment are bleach syringes and upper and lower trays you can continue to use at home.

Interested in Achieving a Brighter Smile in Riverside, CA?

Dr. Tomazin and his qualified team are ready to help you achieve the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted. Schedule an appointment or consultation today at (951) 686-3666 or get in touch with our online contact form


Foods That Promote Healthy Teeth and Gums

Posted September 16, 2024 in Oral health
Female eating strawberry

Most of us know that sugary foods wreak havoc on our teeth, breaking down the enamel and causing painful cavities. But did you know certain foods can be good for your teeth and gums? This blog will discuss a variety of foods that support tooth and gum health and their benefits.

3 Min Read:

Can Food Make My Teeth Healthy?

Perhaps you are already aware that sugar causes cavities. Foods high in sugar, even foods you might not suspect at first glance, like white bread, can coat the teeth in acids that feed bacteria and cause plaque formation. Dentists regularly warn us to brush our teeth and avoid sugary foods to keep our teeth and gums healthy and strong.

However, not all foods damage teeth. Did you know that there are foods that support dental health? In fact, studies show that a lack of certain nutrients can have a negative impact on our oral health. Keep reading to learn which foods help keep your teeth healthy

Note: Always consult with your primary care physician before changing your diet or incorporating new foods. Some foods may not be suitable for patients with certain conditions, or may be dangerous to combine with certain medications.

What Foods Are Healthy For Teeth?

Milk and Dairy Products

Milk and cheese are famously high in calcium, which helps to build strong bones. This mineral keeps your jaws strong, as well as the enamel, or outer layer, of your teeth. Studies have shown that some dairy products help to remineralize the teeth.

Apples

Crunchy plant foods, like apples, contain a lot of fiber. Those crunchy fibers work to clean the surface of the teeth, just like a toothbrush. Crunchy foods also trigger saliva production, which helps mineralize the teeth and wash away food particles. Finally, chewing on crunchy foods like apples also stimulates gums, which keeps them healthy and happy.

Fish

The omega-3 fatty acids in delicious, fatty fish like salmon and tuna can help prevent gum disease, most likely because these healthy fats strengthen the immune system and help protect the body against disease and bacteria.

Nuts

Alongside foods like cheese, fruits, and vegetables, nuts are a cariostatic food. This means that they help prevent cavities by forming a protective coating for tooth enamel. They also help to neutralize the acids formed by bacteria on the surfaces of teeth.  

Unsweetened Tea

Black and green teas without added sweeteners are great for your dental health. Compounds in tea, like catechins and polyphenols, help to limit the growth of bacteria that contribute to periodontal disease. They also help to fight halitosis, or bad breath. Green tea has so many health benefits; it’s an excellent supplement to add to your diet. Be sure to check with your doctor because certain patients, such as those who take blood thinners, should not drink green tea.

Water

While water is not a food, per se, you can never have too many reminders to drink more of it. In addition to how important it is to stay hydrated, water helps wash away food particles. Finally, saliva is made mostly of water, and saliva flow is a major part of oral health. Water, therefore, is essential for a healthy mouth.

So, what teeth-friendly foods do you already love, and which ones will you incorporate into your diet? 

Interested in Learning More About Dental Care in Riverside, CA?

Dr. Chad Tomazin is a kind, dedicated, and highly experienced dentist who helps his patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. If you are interested in learning how to increase the health of your teeth, schedule a consultation with us. Use our online contact form or call us at (951) 686-3666. We’d love to hear from you!


How to Maintain Your Smile After a Makeover

Posted August 29, 2024 in Smile Makeover
Happy woman with beautiful, sparkling teeth.

A smile makeover can grant you a smile that you’re confident to show off. After undergoing the treatment necessary to improve the aesthetics of your teeth and smile, you’ll want to protect your investment. This blog will discuss ways to maintain the results of your smile makeover so you can enjoy your sparkling smile for years to come.

3 Min Read:

What Is a Smile Makeover?

Many dream of a dazzling, confident smile. Crooked teeth, a gummy smile, or tooth discoloration can all detract from your appearance and make you feel uncomfortable speaking, eating, laughing, or smiling. Thankfully, you don’t need to struggle with these issues—you deserve a smile you’re proud of! Your local dentist’s office can help.

A smile makeover can refer to any combination of procedures meant to improve the look of your smile and correct dental imperfections. They are becoming more popular for both aesthetic and functional purposes. Treatments can include veneers, crowns, dental bonding, dental implants, and teeth whitening. However, after a smile makeover, it’s important to take careful care of your teeth so your beautiful smile makeover is long-lasting.

How to Maintain Your Smile Makeover

A smile makeover is a worthy investment in your appearance, health, confidence, and success. Studies have shown that the appearance of your teeth can affect your success in relationships and the career world. It’s worth taking care of your investment!

Keep Your Teeth White

  • Avoid foods and drinks with tannins. Tannins are coloring agents in beverages like coffee, red wine, and tea. They are also present in richly-colored foods, like beets and pasta sauce. Tannins contribute to staining your teeth, so avoid them, use a straw, or rinse afterward to minimize staining.
  • Use a whitening toothpaste. If part of your smile makeover involves teeth whitening, use a non-fluoride whitening toothpaste twice a week to prevent surface stains from forming.

Keep Your Restorations Strong

  • Protect your teeth from damage. Wear mouth guards during sports and outdoor recreation and a night guard when you sleep to prevent injury or wear and tear due to bruxism.
  • Avoid mouthwashes with alcohol. An oral rinse or antibacterial mouthwash can help protect your teeth, but if alcohol is in the ingredients, it can weaken the dental cement that keeps restorations, like veneers, in place.

Keep Your Mouth Healthy

  • Brush and floss daily. These habits are important to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Regular brushing also keeps your teeth clean and bright. Use a high-quality toothbrush to make sure your time spent brushing counts.
  • Maintain regular dental check-up appointments. This way, your dentist can ensure everything is functioning properly, and if any touch-ups or restorative work is needed, you can get treatment as soon as possible.

How Much Does a Full Smile Makeover Cost?

The treatments involved in a smile makeover will differ from person to person, so the cost will vary. The cost of a complete smile makeover will depend on the combination of treatments involved. Before you commit, Dr. Tomazin can create a mockup of your new smile for you to try on. That way, you can decide if a smile makeover is the right procedure for you.

Want to Learn More About a Smile Makeover in Riverside, CA?

If you’re ready to learn more about how a smile makeover can benefit you, we’re here to help. Dr. Tomazin is a biological dentist with years of experience and hundreds of happy patients. Fill out our online contact form or call (951) 686-3666 to schedule a consultation today.


What Should You Avoid Eating After Teeth Whitening?

Posted July 8, 2024 in Teeth Whitening
Happy Female after Dental teeth whitening treatment.

Getting your teeth professionally whitened at your dentist’s office is a great way to achieve the most radiant smile possible. But how does your diet affect the longevity of your teeth whitening results? This blog will discuss foods to avoid and foods that are safer for your beautiful white smile after a professional teeth whitening appointment.

2 Min Read:

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Your smile is a calling card to the world of your joy. Most people want a bright, confident smile. There are different methods of teeth whitening. One popular method uses peroxide solutions to break down stains on the teeth. The peroxide is able to break down the chemical compounds that make up the stains. As a result, your teeth are better able to reflect light, making them appear whiter. Other natural approaches to teeth whitening include non-toxic take-home whitening strips by Lumineaux®. 

Why Do You Need to Watch What You Eat After Teeth Whitening?

After you have your teeth whitened, your enamel is temporarily more porous. This means that foods with dark or bright colors or pigments can more easily stain your teeth. In order to maintain the results of your professional teeth whitening, you should opt for foods that are white or pale-colored. 

How Soon After Teeth Whitening Can I Drink Coffee?

For best results, it’s recommended that you stick to this diet of light-colored foods for about a week, avoiding highly pigmented foods for at least three days after your whitening treatment.

That means your morning cup of coffee must be postponed for at least three days for best results. If you cannot go without it, use a straw—at your own risk!

What Foods Should You Avoid After Tooth Whitening?

When it comes to foods to avoid, this includes any food that is bright or dark in color. You also want to avoid foods that are acidic or high in sugar because your teeth are sensitive in the days following a whitening treatment, and you will need to protect them from decay and erosion. Here are some examples of foods to avoid and why:

  • Coffee and tea: acidic and darkly pigmented
  • Red wine: acidic and darkly pigmented
  • Carbonated drinks: high in sugar and acid
  • Dark fruits, like blueberries, cherries, and  pomegranates
  • Artificially colored candies: sugar and bright pigments
  • Any kind of chocolate: sugar and pigments
  • Spices like turmeric, paprika, cinnamon: bright pigments
  • Soy sauce and foods containing it: dark pigment

Essentially, the closer to white your food can get, the better. One week will fly by, but you’ll enjoy the results of your teeth whitening treatment for months if not years!

Interested in Teeth Whitening in Riverside, CA?

If you have questions about teeth whitening, it’d be our pleasure to help you. Schedule a consultation by calling or filling out our online contact form.