Part of good oral hygiene is to regularly visit a dentist for teeth cleaning. Doing so at least twice a year can help you avoid dental problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and more. Professional cleanings are crucial as it allows the dentist to clean every surface of your teeth expertly. Thus, any tartar or plaque bacteria on your teeth will be eliminated before they have an opportunity to cause problems. Hence, how long does a dental cleaning take?

In this blog, we’ll explain the steps of regular dental cleaning. This way, you can have a detailed understanding of what goes on in the process and how long it is.

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning Procedure?

When you go to the dental office for your regular teeth cleaning, the dentist usually starts by taking a comprehensive oral exam. This will help them spot any dental issues. After the oral exam, the dental hygienist will prepare you for the procedure. They’ll apply a paper towel or something else to cover your shirt; inform them if you’re uncomfortable at any point.

Below, we will list the steps of the regular dental cleaning procedure to help you understand how long it will take:

Step 1: Scaling

Your teeth cleaning will start with scaling. During this step, the dentist scrapes off bacteria, plaque, and debris from your teeth and gum line. Hence, the dentist will remove the buildup on the surface or between your teeth and the gum line. To do so, the hygienist or dentist might use a thin metal hand scaler or an automatic ultrasonic scaler. Once the dentist has removed the plaque using one of these tools, they will rinse your teeth with water.

The scaling process might be slightly uncomfortable for you if you have sensitive teeth. Your dentist will make sure to pause and give you breaks between the process.

Step 2: Polishing

How long the first step of the dental cleaning procedure will take depends on the condition of your teeth and the buildup. Removing plaque and debris will prepare your teeth for some polishing. In the next step, your dentist will apply a polishing paste to your teeth using an automatic handheld device. They’ll apply the paste to each tooth, buffing up your teeth to give you a shiny smile.

Step 3: Flossing

Now that your teeth are cleaned and polished, it’s time for the final step. Therefore, the dentist will floss between your teeth to ensure nothing is lingering there. Believe it or not, the dentist will be done with flossing your teeth quickly. Then, they will rinse your teeth. Congratulations! Your dental cleaning process has come to an end.

How Long Will A Dental Cleaning Take?

Generally, professional cleaning procedures, along with examination, take around 30 minutes to an hour. The time taken depends on the health of your teeth and how much plaque buildup is present. The entire routine appointment typically lasts between an hour to 90 minutes. Furthermore, there’s no need to rush the procedure; the dentist should proceed according to your comfort.

What’s Next?

Now that you know how long a dental cleaning procedure might take, visit your dentist to get a healthy smile. Our experts at Smiles on Greatwood Dentistry look forward to meeting you at 19875 Southwest Fwy #120, Sugar Land, TX 77479. You can also book an appointment by dialing (281) 937-7530.

Root canal is a pretty common procedure that helps eliminate discomfort. To do so, your endodontist removes a damaged or infected tooth pulp and cleans your canals to disinfect it. But do root canals hurt? You might be wondering if your dentist recommends root canal therapy for you. We’ll take you on a detailed explanation of what happens in a root canal procedure. This way, you can learn what happens during root canal therapy and if it hurts or not.

Root Canal Symptoms

Let’s discuss what signs show up when you need a root canal. There are certain indicators that will help your endodontist know that you require this treatment.

The root symptoms look like this:

• Constant pain, especially when chewing or biting down
• Increased sensitivity to heat and cold
• Discoloration of tooth
• Swelling in gums
• Pain upon touching the tooth
• Chips or cracks in the affected tooth
• Tooth feels loose

What Happens During Root Canal Procedure?

A specialized dentist or endodontist performs the root canal procedure. It will depend on your tooth’s condition and how long the procedure takes. Hence, it’s possible that your treatment requires more than one visit if the case is complex.

Your dentist will recommend a root canal after taking dental x-rays. This will help them identify the presence of an infection. After that, they’ll discuss what the procedure involves and discuss the important details so you can make an informed decision.

When the root canal procedure starts, you’ll probably wonder if it will hurt. The answer is: no; the root canal procedure itself will not be harmful. You can confirm this by knowing what goes on in root canal therapy. Before the procedure, your dentist will inject a local anesthetic, which helps numb the pain. Therefore, when the endodontist is working on your affected tooth, you might not even feel a twinge. After that, the dentist removes the infected tissue and cleans the site. Then, they’ll insert a synthetic material to replace the tissue after disinfecting the tooth. Lastly, they might seal your tooth using a large filling. In some cases, the dentist will place a crown to cover the weakened tooth.

Is Root Canal Painful?

No, the root canal treatment is not painful since it is performed under anesthesia. The pain before the procedure comes from the infection. During the treatment, the dental specialist gets rid of the infection after numbing the area. So, the procedure itself should not hurt. Thus, you should inform your endodontist if you start feeling discomfort.

Following the treatment, you might feel slight discomfort. However, you can consult your dentist if you feel pain after a root canal. They’ll recommend medications. Sometimes, pain can occur due to other factors; your dentist can help eliminate them.

What Should I Do?

Are you wondering if the root canals hurt? The dental specialist or endodontist will put you under local anesthesia to ensure the affected site is numb. Thus, you will not feel pain when the procedure is performed. You can immediately inform the dentist if you feel any discomfort during the treatment so they can look at it. Furthermore, you might feel slight discomfort after the procedure. But, no worries, your dentist can recommend the best medications to alleviate the discomfort.

Our Smiles on Greatwood Dentistry team is always here to help you get rid of the discomfort. Schedule an appointment with us at (281) 937-7530. You can also visit our dental clinic; just drop by 19875 Southwest Fwy #120, Sugar Land, TX 77479.

Infections are known to be excruciating, and a tooth infection is no exception. That is to say, an infected tooth is extremely painful and can also cause a lot of discomfort. So much so that it might want to make you pull out the tooth from its roots. But can a dentist pull an infected tooth out? Is it even safe? To find out, keep on reading this blog.

Can A Dentist Pull Out an Infected Tooth?

The easy answer is yes. A dentist can definitely pull out an infected tooth. But it mainly depends on the severity of the case. That is to say, if the dental abscess surrounding your tooth is deep-rooted, the dentist might suggest other treatment options instead of extracting it. This can include draining the abscess of all pus and prescribing antibiotics.

The reason why dentists opt for prescription medications is because taking them consistently can help minimize the infection. So, once the intensity of the infected tooth has reduced, you can easily pull it out without any harmful consequences.

Similarly, draining the abscess can prevent major repercussions. It can keep the bacteria from swimming over to other teeth and contaminating them.

What Causes a Tooth Infection?

Usually, a tooth infection is caused by bacterial growth inside your tooth or gums. The bacteria finds its way inside your pearly whites through a chip or crack, which results in a cavity. Moreover, once the cavity deepens, the bacteria eat their way through the enamel to the dentin and then, finally, the pulp.

It’s only when the bacterial growth advances to the innermost center of your tooth, reaching the nerves and connective tissues, that the situation truly worsens. In some cases, if the effect of the bacteria is too deep, the dentist might refuse to extract it right away. Otherwise, it could potentially cause the bacteria to spread to the nearby teeth and gum area.

How to Spot an Infected Tooth

The instant you spot an infection taking root, contact a dentist immediately. This will prevent the infection from getting worse. You can also try swishing around salt water solution in your mouth due to its antibacterial properties. Nevertheless, if you notice any of the dental abscess signs mentioned below, be on the lookout. Pay close attention to the slightest shift in your oral health, especially the following:

• Heightened tooth sensitivity
• Throbbing pain around a tooth
• Pain spreading to your jawbone, neck, or ear
• High fever
• Foul taste in the mouth
• Unable to properly chew or bite on anything due to the discomfort
• Swollen cheeks and neck
• Swollen lymph nodes at the base of your jaw
• Bad Breath
• Pus leakage

What’s The Takeaway?

To summarize, a dentist can easily pull an infected tooth out. However, to prevent the bacteria from infecting other sites, dentists prefer to either drain the abscess or reduce the infection with the help of antibiotics first. This way, there won’t be any alarming results after.

If you’re looking for a good dental office, contact Smiles on Greatwood at (281) 937-7530 to schedule an evaluation today. You can also visit us at 19875 Southwest Fwy #120, Sugar Land, TX 77479, inside the Greatwood Professional Center.

Aftercare is a huge part of undergoing any treatment, especially health-related. Perhaps that is why, when it comes to dental health, dentists are ready to write you a list of instructions to follow, no matter the procedure. Although, in most cases, it’s tooth extraction surgery that requires plenty of aftercare and maintenance.

So, if you, too, have recently undergone an extraction surgery, whether it’s for wisdom or any other tooth, this blog will highlight all the different ways to help you heal faster.

What Leads to a Tooth Extraction?

Many people think that wisdom teeth are the only ones that require extraction. But the truth is, any tooth infected or eaten by bacteria is liable for removal. Sometimes, even a chipped or broken tooth is in dire need of extraction. Nonetheless, some other circumstances that can lead to tooth extraction are:

• Gum Disease
• Impaction
• Overcrowded Teeth
• Facial or Dental Trauma
• Dental Cavities
• Genetic Condition
• Tooth Broken Beneath Gum Line

How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Tooth Extraction?

Usually, the soreness and discomfort you feel after the surgery tend to go away after 3 to 5 days at most. However, when it comes to your gums and overall recovery time, it could take much longer. Dentists typically recommend complete rest for around four weeks. This gives the soft tissues enough time to heal and repair. Rushing it would only lead to blood clots and infections taking root.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare Tips To Heal Faster

As wonderful as it is to get some rest, after a while of strict probation, you just want to bounce back. So, if you want to heal faster, follow the tooth extraction aftercare methods mentioned below:

Take Time Off Work or School
Whether you’re a student or an adult who works, rest is important for everyone. It is crucial to consider your personal health and take time off when needed.

Finish Your Antibiotics Course
As overwhelming as it is, the medications prescribed by your dentist play a huge role in helping you get better. This is why it is essential to see the course through rather than abandon it.

Don’t Touch The Dressing
Your dentist will tell you when to change or remove the dressing. Do not try to remove it on your own, especially right after the extraction surgery.

Use Cold Compresses Frequently
Applying an ice pack will help to numb the pain. Use it whenever necessary.

Avoid Using Straws
Sucking through a straw will only add more pressure to the new tooth extraction site. To keep the stitches from ripping open, avoid using straws.

Saltwater Rinse
The blend of salt and warm water is phenomenal for tooth extraction aftercare. Its antibacterial properties help to soothe away the pain in an instant.

Avoid Smoking
Tobacco is an extremely harmful substance. One that can worsen the extraction site if used.

Prop Your Head When Lying Down
Elevating your head keeps the blood from rushing down. This prevents blood clotting and allows the blood to flow freely instead.

Maintain a Good Oral Routine
Brushing your teeth at least two times every day and flossing are of utmost importance. It ultimately helps you to heal faster.

What’s The Takeaway?

All in all, it’s essential to keep in mind that rest is extremely important. After your tooth extraction, aftercare is a must. Make sure you brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush in gentle motion and eat foods that will not irritate the affected area. Nevertheless, if you want to know more, contact Smiles on Greatwood at (281) 937-7530.

Tooth pain is as terrible as they come. They can make eating, sleeping, working – almost everything – difficult. You can visit a dentist for a dental examination. However, if you can’t get emergency dental care, continue reading to learn how to stop tooth pain fast.

Ways to Stop Tooth Pain Fast

To get rid of the tooth pain, you’ll need to know what’s causing it, as this will help tackle it accordingly. Your tooth could be hurting due to decay, fracture, infection, and more.

You can try these tips if you can’t immediately reach your dentist:

1. Go for Cold Compress Compress the affected area using an ice pack or even a bag of frozen vegetables. Remember not to use the cold compress directly on your face; wrap it in a piece of cloth before pressing it against the aching tooth. Compress for 20 minutes, with intervals in between. This method could help you reduce swelling and pain. Try cold compresses throughout the day for effective results!
2. Take an Anti-Inflammatory Medication You can reduce swelling and tooth pain fast by taking anti-inflammatory medications. Ask your dentist for recommendations; they might ask you to take your toothache medication every few hours. Continue taking them until the discomfort goes away.
3. Try Saltwater Rinses Saltwater rinses are an effective tip on how to get rid of tooth pain fast. Hence, try swishing a mixture of salt and lukewarm water in your mouth for pain relief and cleaning infections. Furthermore, saltwater rinses also eliminate oral wounds and inflammation. There are many benefits to a saltwater gargle, but avoid swallowing it while rinsing.
4. Pressing Peppermint Tea Bags You can get temporary pain relief by using peppermint tea bags to numb the affected area. It has numbing properties that work to reduce your discomfort. A peppermint tea bag can be used when it’s warm, and you can wait for it to cool. Apart from this, you can freeze the tea bag for some hours before you apply it.
5. 5. Compressing with Hot Packs You can use hot packs as a warm compress to relieve tooth pain. The pain signals travel from your mouth to your brain, but hot packs interfere and reduce the discomfort. First, ensure that the compress is warm and safe for application on your skin. Next, using a cloth barrier, apply it to your skin for 10 to 15 minutes.
6. Dabbing With Clove Oil People have used clove oil for treating tooth pain throughout history, as it contains eugenol. Eugenol helps sterilize oral wounds, numb oral pain, and minimize inflammation.You can also use clove oil to get rid of tooth pain fast. To use this remedy, dip a clean cotton ball into clove oil. After that, dab the cotton ball on the affected region. You can also dilute the clove oil with water if it seems too strong.

What to Do Next?

If you’re searching for tips on how to get rid of your unbearable tooth pain fast, there are many tips to reduce it at home. Our Smiles on Greatwood Dentistry team is always here to help; dial (281) 937-7530 to contact us now.

Noticing a dark-colored spot on your tooth isn’t exactly fun. You start brushing away, trying to get it to come off. Is it a cavity, or is it a stain? This question plagues your mind, and you’re left wondering in a slight panic. But don’t worry, we’re here to solve all your troubles. In this blog, we’ll discuss everything related to a cavity vs. stain. Read on to find out about the dark spot on your tooth.

What is a Cavity?

Usually, the bacteria in your mouth are normal; they’re somewhat healthy. But when you consume too much sugary or starchy foods, it can give birth to a bad kind of bacteria. This ultimately leads to plaque formation, causing further, more serious dental diseases down the line. One of these diseases is a cavity.

A cavity is a tooth-decaying process that starts from your tooth’s enamel. When this strong outer layer of your tooth starts to wear down due to bacteria, it leaves the insides of its body exposed. Thus, a cavity occurs when the bacteria find their way over to the dentin or the pulp. Since the nerve endings of your tooth are deeply rooted inside its body, you might experience intense pain and sensitivity when the bacteria reach that point.

Moreover, tooth discoloration during a cavity is pretty normal. The once pearly white tooth may turn an odd yellowish hue. With time, the color only darkens. Shades of dark gray, brown, or black might unfurl soon after.

What is a Stain?

Quite unlike a cavity, dental stains are nothing more than a discolored blemish. They don’t cause any pain or damage in any way or form. You might notice the blotch of color on either one side of the tooth or the entire tooth’s surface. Neglecting your dental health can lead to a stain getting worse.

In most cases, you can categorize these stains into two types: Extrinsic and Intrinsic.

Extrinsic stains form on the outer shell of the tooth, the enamel. They’re the easiest when it comes to removal. Be it through a home remedy or professional teeth cleaning; extrinsic stains don’t linger around permanently. On the other hand, an intrinsic stain is more on the permanent side of things. These stains are found in the middle of the tooth — on the dentin and are almost impossible to remove.

Cavity vs. Stain: What Causes Them?

Although both forms of discoloration look the same, here’s what causes a cavity and stain to take shape:

• Cavity
• Poor Oral Hygiene
• Dry Mouth
• Acid Reflux
• Unbalanced and Improper Diet
• Flouride Deficiency
• Stain:
• Smoking Tobacco
• Tartar Buildup
• Side Effects of Aging or Medicines
• Drinking Liquids with High Food Coloring
• Tomatoes

Cavity vs. Stain: How to Prevent Them

Maintaining a healthy oral hygiene routine is the best way to prevent both a cavity and a dental stain. Make it a daily habit to brush your teeth every morning and once again before you go to bed.

Pay attention to your diet. The food you eat and drink can also highly affect your tooth’s condition. Drinks like coffee or wine can cause an adverse reaction and stain your teeth. Whereas drinking too many sweet and fizzy drinks can lead to cavity formation.

Cavity vs. Stain: How to Tell Them Apart

It might be a little hard to tell a cavity apart from a stain. However, try paying close attention to the discolored spot. Is the blemish covering the entirety of your tooth, or is it concentrated in one area? Is there any pain or sensitivity in the area? Depending on these factors, you can find the culprit behind the dark spot on your tooth. Nonetheless, for accurate results, visit a dentist.

Long Story Short

There are many similarities between a cavity vs. stain, but you can avoid them with proper care and attention. Contact Smiles on Greatwood Dentistry at (281) 937-7530 to schedule an appointment for an in-depth dental evaluation. In the case of a cavity, it’s better to get it treated as soon as possible.

If you’re new to flossing, you might be prone to bleeding gums. But why does that happen? Is it a common occurrence? Should your gums bleed every time you floss? The answer to all of these questions is simple: No.

Your gums shouldn’t constantly bleed when flossing. Instead, with time, you should be able to get better control over the thread. Nonetheless, there are many reasons why your gums could be bleeding while flossing. In this blog, we’ll uncover the causes and treatment to prevent any blood from spilling out.

Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Floss My Teeth

Gums bleeding during flossing isn’t a big deal, especially if it stops after some time. Nevertheless, just to be safe, it’s better to get a professional dental evaluation as a precaution. Moreover, seeing blood just means you need to upkeep your dental hygiene routine and floss more often.

That is if you’re new to it. For people who are used to the thread, it might raise some concerns.

Either way, make sure to get it checked for periodontal diseases such as periodontitis or gingivitis. Here are some of the primary causes of bleeding gums:

1. Flossing with an improper form or technique.
2. New to dental flossing
3. Internal Vitamin Deficiency
4. Side effects of certain medications that could be thinning out your blood
5. Poor diet lacking proper nutrition
6. Gingivitis
7. Periodontitis
8. Hormonal Imbalance due to pregnancy
9. Smoking
10. Drug Abuse
11. HIV Infection
12. Diabetes
13. Autoimmune Diseases

How To Stop Gums From Bleeding When Flossing

Despite being a common phenomenon, leaving your gums to rot and bleed is not the way to go. Instead, you can try to find preventive methods to stop the bleeding. For instance, if you’re flossing too hard, perhaps try using a gentler hand. Or, if you have a pre-existing injury on your gums, be careful not to run the thread over it.

In addition, it is important you identify why exactly this happens. Find out the root cause of your gums’ bleeding, and then move on to the solution that suits you best. Mentioned below are some soothing remedies:

• Improve Your Oral Hygiene. Brush every day in the morning after having breakfast and at night before you go to bed. This will guarantee your teeth and gums stay strong and aren’t susceptible to bleeding.
• Use a Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse Dissolve one part hydrogen peroxide (of 3% concentration) with three parts water to make an antibacterial mouth rinse. This will help to treat sore or inflamed gums.
• Increase Your Vitamin Intake (c & k) Incorporate vitamin C and vitamin K into your diet to prevent your blood from thinning out. Not to mention, it’s a great way to boost your immune system and fight off all sorts of gum infections.
• Apply a Cold Compress If the bleeding doesn’t stop, you can apply a cold compress to the affected area. Sometimes, the reason gums bleed out is simply because of an injury rather than a scary gum disease.
• Use a Salt Water Solution Half a teaspoon salt in warm water can work wonders for the smallest inflammation or injury. This rinsing solution can help to reduce bacteria and put a stop to your bleeding gums.

The Final Takeaway

In conclusion, if your gums bleed when flossing, it could be due to myriad reasons. Some might require immediate dental assistance, while others could be because of minor irritation. Nonetheless, if you’re looking for more information on gums and periodontal health, visit Smiles on Greatwood Dentistry or give us a call at (281) 937-7530 today.

Have you ever found yourself wondering aloud, ‘Why does my jaw hurt?’, because if so, you just might have popped the biggest question of all time. According to studies, around 13 million adults in the US suffer from jaw pain. But despite being common, there isn’t a surefire way of answering that question. In fact, plenty of reasons can amount to the jaw pain you might be feeling. We’ll break down the top 5 causes that could possibly be behind it.

Why Does My Jaw Hurt All of a Sudden?

Waking up with a sudden aching in your jaw is far from ideal. If anything, it could ruin your entire day. Although some people do suffer from chronic jaw pain, known as TMD, other times, it’s only a short-lived spark of pain. Ranging from complex to simple, here are the following reasons why your jaw hurts when you open your mouth wide:

1. Oral Infection
An oral infection can come in various shapes and sizes. Be it on your teeth, gums, or tongue, oral infections can be quite tricky to deal with. Mainly, a deeply embedded cavity or a cracked tooth can lead to jaw pain. But on the other hand, an abscessed tooth, along with gum disease, can also play a role in causing your jaw discomfort.

2. Migraine
As odd as it sounds, cluster headaches and migraines can be the leading cause of an aching jaw. The blood vessels in your head tangle up with your facial nerves, leading to severe pain. If you notice your jaw pain disappearing right after your headache goes away, that should serve as a clear indication.

3. High Stress
At times, high amounts of stress can also have your jaw feeling sore. This is especially the case if you’re prone to clenching or grinding your teeth. You may not notice it at that moment, but the pain arrives soon enough after.

4. Sinus Infection
Allergies or a case of a bad sinus infection can also be one of the reasons why your jaw hurts. The pressure you feel in your jaw comes from the nasal congestion caused by sinusitis. If the pain is accompanied by dizziness, headache, or post-nasal drip, it could all just be because of a sinus infection.

5. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)
TMD is by far the most serious case of jaw pain. That’s when you know something is really up. The temporomandibular joint in your face connects to the lower jaw of your skull. This is why a sudden pain might shoot up whenever you open your mouth to chew, eat or yawn. Sometimes, you might hear clicking noises when opening your mouth, or there may be an odd pain near your ears. All of this could be a result of TMD.

How to Treat Jaw Pain

In most cases, dentists suggest avoiding any type of hard food. Moreover, try not to open your mouth too wide, or it could dislodge your jaw from its original position. Of course, if the pain gets too much, you might want to ice the area for some time. But if the aching lasts long, it might be time for you to seek professional dental care.

The Closing Word

All in all, the next time you think to yourself, ‘Why does my jaw hurt?’ Remember to take a deep breath and pay attention to the other symptoms you’re feeling. Nonetheless, in the case that the pain persists, call (281) 937-7530 to schedule an appointment with Smiles on Greatwood Dentistry for an in-depth evaluation.

Have you ever gone to take a big bite out of your sandwich, only to find that your jaw feels slightly out of place on one side? Or have you ever noticed your jaw clicking when you open your mouth? If so, then you’re most probably dealing with a dislocated jaw.

My Jaw Feels Out of Place on One Side — What do I do?

For starters, try not to panic. Jaw dislocation is actually quite common. However, no matter what you do, do not try to fix it by yourself. Seek medical care as soon as you can.

Nonetheless, the question remains; What does a dislocated jaw mean?

Well, a dislocated jaw occurs when your jawbone shifts from its original position. This happens due to blunt force trauma or constant irritation. Either way, when the lower area of your jaw moves, it can cause many problems. So even after the jaw is back in its place, small acts like chewing or yawning could still be painful.

Symptoms of a Dislocated Jaw?

Rather than waiting for the worst to happen, it’s better to take preventive action beforehand. Look out for the following symptoms if your jaw feels out of place on one side or both.

• Stiffness or tightness in the lower area
• Swollen jaw
• Mouth feeling sore
• Stabbing pangs of pain when the jaw is moved
• Bite Misalignment
• Hard to talk or swallow
• Unable to properly close mouth
• Increased Drooling
• Jaw constantly getting locked
• Jaw makes weird clicking or popping sounds

What Causes the Jaw Cartilage to Slide Out of Place?

As strong as your jaw is, it is still made from bone. This means that sudden physical trauma can offset it from its roots. In most cases, jaw pain is related to Temporomandibular Joint Disorder or TMD. It is a condition that deals with jaw joints and muscles. Nonetheless, here are a few other causes of a dislocated jaw:

• Bruxism
• Sudden Trauma to the Jaw Area
• Excessive Chewing
• Misaligned Bite
• Myofascial Pain Syndrome
• Constantly Stretching Mouth Wide Open

How to Treat a Dislocated Jaw

If you find your jaw repeatedly locking or shifting from its place, then it’s better to take precautions. However, if the severity isn’t that bad, opt for a hot or ice cold compress. On the other hand, you can also refrain from opening your mouth too wide.

Although, in the long term, it’s better to get a professional jaw treatment. Depending on the gravity of the shift, you might have to undergo jaw wiring. In addition, perhaps a Maxillary or Mandibular Osteotomy might also be required. But there’s nothing to worry about. During the procedure, you’re put under medical-grade anesthesia. Moreover, once the surgery is complete, you will have to wear compression bandages to ensure your jaw stays in its place. This will provide your jaw bone with the additional support it needs so that it doesn’t pop out of place again.

Closing Word

In conclusion, it is completely okay for your jaw to hurt after a long day. But if your jaw feels out of place on one side, it could be due to a dislocated jaw. Thus, in such cases, getting treatment as soon as possible is better. Smiles on Greatwood is the perfect place to seek solutions to all your dental needs. In fact, you can schedule an appointment by simply calling (281) 937-7530 today!

Having good oral hygiene is a necessity. This is why, despite dentures not being real teeth, it is vital to ensure they stay clean and well taken care of.

Brushing teeth, flossing, and using mouthwash are common forms of cleaning your mouth. However, when it comes to dentures, things can get a little bit tricky.

But have no fear; we’ve got you covered! Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide for you on how to clean dentures and maintain their shelf life.

A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Dentures:

Step One: Set a Time

When cleaning your dentures, consistency is key. Set a specific time, preferably before bed and when done with eating, for your ease and comfort.

Step Two: Daily Cleansing

Make it a habit to clean every day. If neglected, you could risk getting an infection. Moreover, you could also permanently damage your dentures.

Step Three: Prepare Your Cleaning Station

Before you get started, make sure the cleaning area is fully prepped. Carefully lay out towels near the sink and on the floor to be safe. You could also let your sink fill up with warm water so that if the dentures accidentally fall, they won’t get harmed.

Step Four: Gargle with Warm Water

Gargle with lukewarm water to help the dentures loosen their hold. Don’t use boiling water, or it could ruin the shape of your prosthodontics.

Step Five: Gently Pull out the Dentures

Once you feel the dentures free themselves from the adhesive, give them a wiggle before gently pulling the piece out. Use your forefinger and thumb for this method and push outwards. In addition, try to be extra careful, so your gums do not get harmed.

Step Six: Rinse with Water

While delicately handling the dentures, give them a good rinse. Make sure the running water washes away any remaining food particles that might be stuck.

Step Seven: Start Gently Brushing

Use a toothbrush that has extremely soft bristles. Since brushing dentures differs from regular teeth, you need to pay extra attention. One way is by opting for a special denture paste for cleaning. This will ensure that your dentures do not get scratched or ruined in the process.

Step Eight: Clean Away the Residue

Strong adhesives can sometimes find their way inside the tiniest of crevices. Brush along the grooves of your dentures so that if there’s any remaining adhesive gathered up, it can instantly get cleaned.

Step Nine: Soak The Dentures Overnight

When you’re done thoroughly cleaning your prosthodontics, soak them in a cleaning solution. You can also use water to keep your dentures in overnight. This helps to maintain their form and allows them to last longer.

Step Ten: Brush Your Mouth

Once the dentures are put away, take the time to clean your mouth as well. Be very gentle when brushing your gums, and don’t forget to clean the roof of your mouth. Brush with care and ensure nothing is sticking to your gums.

Step Eleven: Rinse Before Use

The next day, when you go on to use your dentures again, give them a thorough rinsing before inserting them into your mouth.

Lastly

Keep in mind that there isn’t a particular way on how to clean dentures. You can use different methods, but safety comes above all, especially since dentures are beyond delicate. Taking care of your oral hygiene allows your prosthodontics to last longer and prevents any illnesses from festering. For more tips, visit Smiles on Greatwood or call us at 281-937-7530.