oral health

Mouthwash is used to help rinse away bacteria or food particles after you brush and floss each day. Using mouthwash is an additional way to help protect your teeth and gums. Knowing the differences between mouthwashes can help you choose the right one to incorporate into your oral hygiene routine.

What Are The Different Types of Mouthwashes Available?

Mouthwash With Fluoride

Fluoride mouthwash contain sodium fluoride, and this helps to protect your teeth from decay and cavities. Fluoride is also found in toothpaste and is added to our tap water. Only using the required amount each day is important because too much fluoride can be harmful to your health. Reading the labels can help to ensure you are only using the appropriate amount that is recommended daily.

Antiseptic Mouthwash

Antiseptic mouthwash is the most common mouthwash used by most patients. This type of mouthwash contains alcohol and can help to stop bacteria in its tracks. Using an antiseptic mouthwash can help fight bad breath, and prevent infections. Patients must be careful using this type of mouthwash. Overuse can lead to stains or discoloration on your teeth. Following the recommended daily guidelines is important to keep your teeth and mouth healthy.

Cosmetic Mouthwash

This type of mouthwash is used to only freshen your breath. Cosmetic mouthwash does not do anything to help with your oral health. Using this type of mouthwash can help rinse food particles away, and is a temporary solution for bad breath.

Natural Mouthwash

Natural mouthwash is a common type of mouthwash that helps keep bacteria away and freshens your breath, but contains only natural ingredients. Natural mouthwash brands do not contain alcohol, and the ingredients are safer compared to other types of mouthwashes available.

During your routine cleaning it is important to discuss what products you are using at home including your mouthwash. Our team is available to access your dental health, and recommend the best mouthwash for you to use at home.

Interested in Finding Out More?

During your routine cleaning it is important to discuss what products you are using at home including your mouthwash. Our team is available to access your dental health, and recommend the best mouthwash for you to use at home.

If you are interested in finding out more about what mouthwash may be best for you, or to schedule your next exam, contact our office and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

family dentistry

Dental care can be costly, and simple procedures can even run up your bill. Caring for your teeth is necessary to keep your oral and general health in check. Many people have no dental benefits at all, or if they retire their benefits are lost.

Skipping dental care is not an option, and can lead to other more serious health issues such as diabetes, or heart conditions. There are ways you can reduce your dental care costs, and help pay for those costly procedures that are necessary to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Ask Your Dentist if They Offer an In-House Membership Plan

Many dental practices today offer their own dental membership for patients. These plans act like an insurance plan, and give patients discounts on procedures that are done in their office. If a patient does not have insurance it is wise to inquire about an in-house plan to help keep costs down.

Sign Up for a Dental Plan Through Your Employer

Many companies offer both medical and dental insurance plans. Most plans pay for at least half of the cost, and preventative services are typically covered 100 percent. Routine procedures are usually covered around 80 percent, and larger more involved procedures such as crowns are usually covered at 50 percent. Using in-network providers can help you save money, and allow you to get the dental work you need.

Dental Savings Plan

Dental savings plans are available to participants who pay a fee to join. The fee is typically annual, and allows you to choose from a network of dentists that offer discounts for members. Dental savings plans allow patients to get the work done that they need at a discounted price without insurance.

Affordable Care Act

Patients can apply for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act. Logging on to their website can let you know if you qualify to purchase dental coverage.

Dental HMO Plan

A dental HMO plan may be available in your state. Typically cleanings and exams twice a year are covered, and procedures are at a discount. Many dentists participate and accept HMO plans, and this is a good way to help save on dental care.

Veterans Benefits

If you are a veteran you qualify to receive insurance at a reduced rate. Disabled veterans are also eligible for free dental care through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Do Your Research

If you are required to have a costly procedure, research the average price of that procedure. Ask your dentist for a discount, and most likely they will work with you, and help find a price and payment plan that fits your needs.

Create an Emergency Dental Fund

Setting aside money each month for dental care can help cover procedures or emergencies that are unpredictable.  Knowing you have a savings account will put you at ease if an emergency arises and you need dental care.

Looking for an Affordable Dentist Near You?

Taking care of your oral health is a great way to prevent costly dental procedures. Brushing and flossing each day, and staying away from foods and drinks that contain sugar can help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Visiting our office regularly for exams and cleanings is extremely important to maintain your oral health. Regular visits allow our team to get in front of issues before they become urgent, and we can help you keep your teeth and mouth looking and feeling great.

We care about our patients, and our team is here to help take care of your oral health. Ask our team if you have questions on coverage or payment plans, and we will work with you to ensure you can receive the very best care.

To find out more about dental programs we offer, or to schedule your next dental exam, contact our office and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Cavity

Taking care of your oral and overall health must be a priority. Knowing when you need to call your dentist is important. Practicing good oral hygiene habits help to prevent tooth decay, cavities, and many other issues. Cavities are one of the most common issues patients face, and about 30 percent of Americans have untreated dental cavities. Leaving a cavity untreated can destroy your teeth leading to tooth loss, infection, and other more serious conditions.

It is helpful for patients to understand what a cavity is, and also know what symptoms to look out for if you think you may have a cavity.

What is a Cavity?

A cavity is when bacteria or food build up and form plaque on your teeth. The bacteria eat away at the enamel on your teeth and cause decay. Good oral hygiene habits are so important, and brushing and flossing can help you get rid of the plaque build up to prevent cavities from developing. Once the cavity is formed there is a small hole in your tooth, and if left untreated the cavity can destroy your tooth or develop an infection.

What Are the Signs of a Cavity?

There are signs you can look out for that may indicate you have a cavity. If you experience any of these signs we encourage you to contact our office, and our staff will get you in as soon as possible. Our team always works to keep our patient’s teeth and mouth healthy and pain free.

  • Sensitivity to hot and cold that lingers and does not go away
  • Sensitivity to sweet foods or drinks
  • A toothache that is on or around one or more teeth
  • Pain when you bite down or pain during eating
  • Discoloration, white spots, or staining on a tooth
  • A small hole or mark on your tooth

Need to Contact Our Office?

  • Knowing these signs can help you decide if you need to contact a dentist. We always tell patients to never hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns. We are here to help, and a cavity should never be left untreated. 

    If you think you may have a cavity and need to schedule an appointment, contact our office and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

Bad Breath

Many people suffer from chronic bad breath or halitosis. Bad breath is something you do not want to be known for, and typically finding the cause is easy. If you suffer from bad breath but also brush, floss, or gargle each day the cause may not be obvious. Taking the time to figure out the underlying problem that may be causing your bad breath is important, and finding a cure can be simple.

Common Cause of Bad Breath

Dental Hygiene

The first area patients should focus on is their dental hygiene habits. Gum or mints are only a short term solution, and finding the cause is the only way you can truly get relief from bad breath. Looking at your dental hygiene is a great place to start because dental hygiene is the most common cause of chronic bad breath. About 85% of bad breath comes from inside the mouth. If you do not brush and floss daily, bacteria can get left behind and cause issues with your breath. Bacteria eats the leftover food particles in your mouth, and as a result leaves a foul smelling odor in your mouth and on your teeth.

Devices

If patients wear retainers, dentures, or mouthguards while they sleep, these devices can trap bacteria or food particles if not cleaned properly. This can attribute to halitosis or chronic bad breath. Taking care of your teeth and mouth is extremely important for your overall and oral health, and can prevent issues such as bad breath that could be embarrassing around others.

Cavities or Infection

If you suffer from cavities or have an infection lingering in your mouth that has not been treated, this can cause bad breath. Attending regular visits to our office for your dental cleaning and exam is important. Our skilled staff can get in front of issues such as cavities or infections and prevent further problems in the future. If patients have issues with their tonsils or throat, this can cause bad breath, and can be from an infection such as strep throat. Patients should seek treatment from their primary care physician if they feel there is an issue with their tonsils or throat.

Dry Mouth or Dehydration

Dehydration or dry mouth is a common cause of bad breath. Saliva and water wash away bacteria or food particles. If your mouth is not hydrated this reduces saliva and can cause halitosis. Our saliva contains pertinent minerals and proteins that help defend against bacteria. Staying hydrated is important to keep our mouth healthy and to prevent bad breath.

Other Possible Causes for Bad Breath

  • Diabetes
  • Throat or mouth cancer
  • Sinus infection
  • Digestive issues
  • Acid reflux
  • Lung infection 
  • Liver disease

What Can I Do to Cure My Bad Breath?

  • Brush and floss two times a day
  • Use an antimicrobial rinse daily
  • Tongue scrape daily to remove bacteria
  • Remove any devices and clean them thoroughly
  • Visit our dental office for regular cleanings and exams
  • Review your diet and try and stick to eating healthy foods
  • Drink water and stay hydrated
  • Avoid tobacco products

Looking For Help With Chronic Bad Breath?

There are many simple solutions to cure bad breath. We encourage you to make an appointment for an exam in our office to discuss your concerns. Our skilled staff can help give you tips, and our thorough dental exam can help identify any issues you may have that could be causing chronic bad breath. If you have already tried simple solutions and still notice your bad breath does not go away, we may advise you make an appointment to see your primary care physician. 

If you are interested in finding a solution to cure bad breath we can help. To schedule your appointment contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

Four Better Commercial Mouthwash Alternatives You Should Try

Mouthwash is a handy tool for disinfecting the mouth and freshening the breath, but it has some downsides as well. Many people avoid mouthwashes due to alcohol. The majority of the commercial brands contain alcohol in it. On the other hand, some people avoid it due to artificial colors, fluoride, and other additives. Still, there are some people who just want a frugal alternative. These natural and low-tech mouthwash alternatives are perfect in order to maintain good oral hygiene and aromatic breath!

Four Better Commercial Mouthwash Alternatives

In this post, you’ll explore effective and natural homemade alternatives for commercial mouthwashes!

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a mild form of antiseptic that is frequently recommended as a rinse for minor throat complaints and mouth sores. Its antiseptic performance also assists in combating the bacteria and germs that lead to bad breath as well as its bleaching qualities, assist in whitening teeth. The main downside of using hydrogen peroxide is its bitter taste. Use a small amount of hydrogen peroxide and stir it with an equal amount of water. Avoid swallowing hydrogen peroxide solution. Excessive doses of hydrogen peroxide can be fatal and harmful, and lesser doses can lead to irritation of the stomach as well as the digestive tract.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Vinegar is well known in order to assist all sorts of minor conditions. Bad breath, which is also known as halitosis, is one of them. Apple cider vinegar functions as an antiseptic, and combating odor-causing germs in the mouth. To swallow the apple cider vinegar solution is safe. Just take one teaspoon of vinegar in an eight-ounce cup of water for the mouth swish.

Baking Soda

Sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, is also well-known for its antiseptic properties, which combat the odor-causing bacteria in your mouth. Furthermore, it will also assist in whitening the teeth, and it’s also safe to consume. Take one teaspoon of baking soda mix in a glass of distilled water in order to make a mouthwash alternative for yourself.

Peppermint Oil

You see, many commercial mouthwashes which contain mint flavor in order to get a pleasant odor. For a prompt homemade natural mouthwash, take a couple of drops of peppermint oil and blend it into a cup of water. This peppermint oil solution is also safe to swallow. However, after swishing your mouth with a solution, spit it out of your mouth. In addition, it may create uncomfortable irritation in your stomach. Other than this, you need to consult your dentist and visit for general regular checkups. The dentist can also provide you effective advice and treatments for all your mouth-related issues.

Fusion Dental Care (raleigh, Nc) Mother, Father, And Son Outdoors

A good dentist is something that everyone needs in their lives, no matter how much care they could take from their teeth, someday you are going to need to solve a problem related to them, and then you really need to make sure that you are working with a good dentist. Of course, with such a popular job as this one, the availability of dentists in the market is incredible, and subsequently it is very easy to find someone good and experienced that can really help.

And while your dentist may be the best in performing regular procedures, this does not guarantee anything about the quality of your cosmetic services. Good cosmetic dentists are usually totally independent of the good regular ones, so if you need cosmetic procedures on your teeth, you will often have to hire a separate dentist to. Of course, there are some exceptions and sometimes very well you can everything you need from your regular dentist – get but as we said, they are exceptions and not the norm.

Fusion Dental Care (raleigh, Nc) Model Of Teeth On A Table While Dentists Work On A Patient

So Is It Worth Using a Cosmetic Dentist?

In short, yes, it is definitely worth it. Take your time and look for a separate cosmetic dentist from the regular. And it is better if this was done before you really need your services – so even if your teeth are fine now and you are not thinking about any cosmetic procedure, it is still a good idea to take the time and find a good cosmetic dentist in your area, that way if you need your services in the future, you will know exactly who to call, without having to start doing your research first.

Remember that there is a bit of an artistic side to the work of a cosmetic dentist. This makes it a little more difficult to find the right person for the job, as you will not only need to hire someone experienced and qualified, but you must also offer something that you personally enjoy. It’s not an important point when it comes to cosmetic dentists anyway, but it’s still something to highlight about your search and definitely not to ignore.

Do I Need to Visit a Cosmetic Dentist Often?

You should take the time to visit your cosmetic dentist from time to time as well. Those visits do not need to be so frequent and you should not expect to see the direct results of them – but if there is any problem with the appearance of your teeth, a good cosmetic dentist would be able to detect from the beginning and stop in their tracks.

You will eventually really appreciate having a good cosmetic dentist to go to. It may take a while before you even need their services, but once you do, you will realize that it was totally worth the time and effort you have spent to find them. And you never know when you decide something more interesting with your teeth, such as perhaps putting on a new set of veneers so that your smile is truly unforgettable!

Call Fusion Dental Care for Quality Cosmetic Treatments in Raleigh

Our team at Fusion Dental wants to make sure that our patients are comfortable with whatever treatment they choose. Our skilled staff will answer any questions you may have and ensure you understand all of the details every step of the way.  We may even provide molds, x-rays, and photos to help us build you a customized treatment plan.

If you are interested in finding out more about what cosmetic dental treatments we can offer in Raleigh, NC, please contact Fusion Dental to schedule your appointment.

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