Orthodontic treatment is a transformative journey that frequently ends with the removal of braces or aligners, exposing a perfectly aligned smile. However, preserving that perfect smile necessitates a dedication to post-treatment maintenance, and orthodontic retainers play an important part in guaranteeing the lifetime of your results.

In this article, we will explore five essential tips for effectively maintaining your perfect smile after orthodontic treatment.

  1. Consistent Wear

Consistent retainer wear is essential for sustaining your orthodontic results. Initially, your orthodontist will propose a certain plan, which may include wearing the retainer full-time before progressively shifting to nocturnal use. It is critical to stick to this schedule precisely. Skipping days or failing to wear your retainer as directed can result in unwanted tooth movement, potentially erasing the progress accomplished throughout your orthodontic treatment.

  1. Proper Cleaning

Maintaining the cleanliness of your retainer is crucial for maintaining dental hygiene and extending its lifespan. It is advised to clean detachable retainers once a day with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or denture cleanser. Steers clear of hot water since it could distort the retainer. Thorough oral hygiene procedures, including using threaders or interdental brushes to floss, are essential for fixed retainers in order to avoid plaque accumulation around the wires.

  1. Safe Storage

Removable retainers must be kept in their original case when not in use. They may get damaged or lost if you put them in your pockets or leave them out in the open. Furthermore, keep retainers out of pets’ reach because their curiosity could cause unintentional changes or damage to the appliance.

  1. Regular Check-ups

It is essential to make routine follow-up consultations with your orthodontist in order to evaluate the state of your retainers and track the stability of your orthodontic outcomes. Orthodontists are able to spot any possible problems with the retainer, like cracks, breaks, or wear indicators, and they may offer prompt advice to fix these problems before they affect the retainer’s efficacy.

  1. Timely Replacements

Retainers are subject to wear and tear over time, which could reduce their efficiency. It is crucial to heed your orthodontist’s advice when it comes to replacing your retainers. Getting a new retainer, when necessary, will guarantee that your teeth stay in their ideal position, regardless of whether it is because of regular wear or changes in your dental structure.

Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

A woman smiling while putting toothpaste on a toothbrush

Tongue cleaning is commonly disregarded, despite the fact that brushing and flossing are the two most important oral hygiene practices for general health. Bacteria thrive on the tongue, which can lead to a number of problems with dental health. Including tongue cleaning in your regular dental hygiene regimen might have a number of advantages, from enhancing breath freshness to averting more severe dental issues.

  1. Eliminating Bad Breath

Reducing halitosis, or bad breath, is one of the main advantages of tongue cleaning. The surface of the tongue is coated in microscopic papillae that allow food particles, germs, and dead cells to collect. These substances have the potential to produce odorous molecules that aggravate bad breath. Regular tongue cleaning helps remove these deposits, leaving your mouth feeling fresher and your breath more pleasant.

  1. Preventing Oral Infections

Periodontal disease and thrush are only two of the oral illnesses and problems that can be brought on by bacteria on the tongue. You may drastically lower your risk of developing these diseases by washing your tongue to get rid of the bacterial buildup. It’s crucial to keep your tongue clean, especially if you have weakened immune systems or are prone to oral infections.

  1. Enhancing Taste Perception

An enhanced sense of taste is correlated with a clean tongue. Bacteria and debris accumulation can alter the taste buds on the surface of the tongue, reducing the sense of flavor. By keeping your taste buds clear, regular tongue washing enables you to completely appreciate the variety of flavors found in your food and drink.

  1. Improving Overall Oral Hygiene

Regular tongue cleaning completes a thorough oral hygiene regimen that also includes brushing and flossing. Combined with these procedures, tongue washing helps eliminate bacteria from the surfaces of the mouth, lowering the risk of gum disease, cavities, and other dental problems. Preventing long-term issues and preserving dental health require a comprehensive approach to oral care.

  1. Supporting Digestive Health

Unbelievably, there is a connection between your digestive system and tongue health. It is possible for bacteria on the tongue to be swallowed and have an impact on digestion. Maintaining a clean tongue lowers the chance of consuming dangerous microorganisms and improves digestive health.

A quick and easy method to improve your oral health is to include tongue washing in your daily regimen. The advantages of tongue cleansing go beyond fresh breath and include preventing bad breath, lowering the risk of dental infections, and promoting improved digestion. To have a healthier mouth and a more self-assured grin, incorporate tongue cleaning into your daily oral hygiene routine. Give your tongue the care it requires for a healthier, more radiant smile in the future. It deserves it.

Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

An older couple smiling and riding bikes

The importance of maintaining good dental health for general wellbeing increases with age. Given the connections between oral health and a number of systemic diseases, dental care for seniors is essential to good ageing.

There are a number of important factors to take into account in order to guarantee that seniors may maintain a bright, healthy smile well into their golden years, from preventing dental decay to handling the problems of ageing.

  1. Regular Dental Checkups

The cornerstone of excellent oral health is routine dental examinations, particularly for seniors. Dentists are skilled at early problem detection and preventive care. It is advised that elders get regular cleanings and examinations at their dentist at least twice a year. Concerns like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer can be addressed during these appointments.

  1. Maintaining Oral Hygiene

Although good dental hygiene is important for everyone, seniors require it even more. Tooth decay and gum disease can be avoided by brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, using a toothbrush with soft bristles, and flossing every day. Adaptive dental care products can help seniors with arthritis or other mobility issues handle dental care more easily.

  1. Denture Care

It is important to give elders who wear dentures sufficient care. The gums can rest when dentures are taken out at night and cleaned every day. Denture fit can be improved with routine dental exams, which lowers the possibility of irritation or infection. Seniors should get expert help as soon as possible if their dentures have any problems, including cracks or an uncomfortable fit.

  1. Managing Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a common ailment among seniors that can be brought on by certain drugs or illnesses. Saliva is essential for neutralizing acids and assisting in the prevention of tooth decay. To alleviate dry mouth, try consuming lots of water, sugar-free gum, or lozenges, and abstaining from alcohol and smoke. Seeking advice from Dr. Borham is crucial if the issue continues.

  1. Nutrition and Hydration

For optimal dental health, a well-balanced diet high in vitamins and minerals is recommended. Seniors who want healthy teeth and bones should concentrate on eating foods high in calcium. Furthermore, maintaining hydration lowers the chance of developing dry mouth by maintaining salivary flow. Reducing sugar-filled snacks and drinks is essential for avoiding dental caries.

  1. Specialized Dental Care

Certain age-related diseases, such dementia or arthritis, could call for dental treatment. In order to guarantee that suitable accommodation may be made during dental visits, seniors and their carers should inform the dental professionals of any difficulties. Dr. Borham, with geriatric care expertise, can offer specialized treatments to address the particular requirements of senior citizens.

  1. Stay Informed about Medications

Oral health may be impacted by a number of drugs that are frequently recommended to seniors. While certain drugs may influence gum health, others may result in dry mouth. In order to address any potential oral health concerns, seniors should discuss their prescription regimen with both Dr. Borham and the healthcare provider.

Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

TMJ Treatment

Dental emergencies can occur at any time and, more often than not, when you least expect them. Knowing how to respond to a sudden toothache, a broken tooth, or an accident to the mouth can make a huge difference in keeping your dental health and minimizing pain and discomfort.

Common Dental Emergencies: Toothache, Chipped or Broken Tooth, Knocked-Out Tooth, Lost or Loose Dental Crown, and Severe Bleeding or Soft Tissue Injury.

In this article, we will look at frequent dental emergencies and offer advice on what to do should they occur.

What to Do If You Have a Dental Emergency:

  1. Toothache:

Warm water should be used to rinse your mouth.

Remove any dirt lodged between your teeth with dental floss.

Over-the-counter pain medications can help relieve discomfort momentarily.

Make an appointment with your dentist Dr. Borham as soon as possible.

  1. Broken or chipped tooth:

Any shattered pieces should be saved.

Warm water should be used to rinse your mouth and the damaged tooth.

If there is bleeding, apply mild pressure with gauze.

See your dentist Dr. Borham right away since a chipped or fractured tooth necessitates professional care.

  1. Tooth that has been knocked out:

Handle the tooth by the crown (upper portion) rather than the root.

If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it but do not scrub it.

If feasible, try to replace the tooth in its socket.

If re-implantation is not an option, place the tooth in milk or a tooth preservation kit and seek dental care as soon as possible.

  1. Dental Crown Loss or Looseness:

If the crown is still intact, keep it.

Temporarily fix the crown with a small amount of dental adhesive or toothpaste.

For a more permanent remedy, consult your dentist Dr. Borham.

  1. Severe bruising or soft tissue damage:

To stop the bleeding, apply mild pressure with gauze.

If the bleeding persists, seek medical or dental assistance right once.

Avoiding Dental Emergencies

While learning how to handle dental crises is critical, prevention is essential. Here are some pointers to help you avoid dental emergencies:

Maintain healthy teeth and gums by practicing good oral hygiene.

Wear mouthguards when participating in sports or activities that provide a risk of facial or dental injury.

Chewing on hard objects such as ice, popcorn kernels, or pencils is not recommended.

Schedule frequent dental exams to catch any problems before they become emergencies.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

A woman holding her chin with her hand and slightly smiling

The first things that come to mind when we consider facial aesthetics may be skincare, makeup, or even cosmetic surgery. However, the dentist is a different medical specialist whose contribution to improving facial beauty is frequently disregarded. In addition to promoting oral health, dentists also play a vital role in face aesthetics through a variety of operations and treatments that can dramatically alter how someone looks. 

In this article, we will look at the varied roles that dentists play in facial aesthetics and how their knowledge can benefit patients in achieving their aesthetic objectives.

  • Smile Makeovers

One of the most important components of face aesthetics is frequently regarded as a lovely grin. Dr. Borham is a professional at establishing and preserving beautiful, healthy smiles. He can fix dental flaws like stained, misaligned, or damaged teeth through operations like veneers, orthodontics, and teeth whitening. These procedures can help people look younger and more harmoniously balanced facially, in addition to improving the appearance of their smiles.

  • Orthodontics

Orthodontic procedures like braces and invisible aligners do more than merely correct teeth. They also significantly affect how the jaw and face anatomy are aligned. A balanced bite and properly aligned teeth can enhance the symmetry and proportions of the face, making the face appear more attractive.

  • Dental Implants

Missing teeth can have a major effect on facial appearance, altering facial structure and giving the face an aged aspect. Dental implants, which not only restore function but also preserve the integrity of the face bone structure, can be successfully placed by Dr. Borham. This can help patients keep a more youthful appearance by preventing the sunken appearance that frequently follows tooth loss.

  • Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Treatment

The TMJ, which joins the jaw to the skull, is very important for face symmetry. This joint’s dysfunction can cause problems like migraines, jaw pain, and an imbalanced facial appearance. Dr. Borham, who is knowledgeable about TMJ issues may identify and treat these conditions, bringing harmony back to the face and reducing pain.

  • Full-Mouth Rehabilitation

Full-mouth rehabilitation might be required for patients who have serious dental problems. Dr. Borham can create thorough treatment regimens that consider the effects on facial aesthetics as well as oral health. To totally alter a patient’s smile and facial look, this may need a combination of restorative and cosmetic operations.

Dentists can make a big contribution towards achieving a more young, balanced, and attractive appearance. Patients are increasingly turning to their dentists not just for a healthy smile but also for a more attractive and self-assured demeanor as the discipline of dentistry develops.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

patient-with-braces

A confident grin can brighten any room, but when teeth are missing, that confidence can disappear. Missing teeth not only affect one’s appearance but also represent possible health issues. Fortunately, dental implants have evolved as a novel and permanent alternative for restoring both the looks and functioning of a complete smile.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are advanced tooth replacements that closely resemble natural tooth anatomy. Dental implants, which are made up of three basic components – the titanium implant post, the abutment, and the crown – provide a solution that addresses both the visible tooth and its hidden root.

The Implant Process:

The implant treatment is a rigorous operation that necessitates the knowledge of a competent dentist like Dr. Borham or an oral surgeon. First, the titanium post is surgically implanted into the jawbone, where it integrates over many months via a process known as osseointegration. This guarantees that the replacement tooth has a solid basis. When the integration process is complete, the abutment is linked to the implant, acting as a link between the post and the crown. Finally, a custom-made crown is affixed to the abutment, perfectly matching the size, shape, and color of the surrounding teeth.

Dental Implant Advantages:

  1. Permanent Solution: Dental implants, as opposed to removable dentures or bridges, are a long-term option. They can last a lifetime with good care and oral hygiene, creating a sense of stability and security.

  2. Natural Appearance: Dental implants are meant to fit in with your natural teeth, making it difficult to tell them apart from the rest of your smile.

  3. Enhanced Functionality: Implants, like natural teeth, restore the ability to bite, chew, and talk with ease. This helps people to eat their favorite meals without feeling restricted, supporting better digestion and overall well-being.

  4. Bone Health Preservation: When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone might degenerate over time. Dental implants increase bone growth, avoiding bone loss and preserving face shape.

  5. Improved Confidence: A full smile can greatly boost self-confidence and self-esteem, positively influencing social interactions and professional chances.

  1. No neighboring Teeth Damage: Unlike traditional bridges, which require the change of neighboring teeth for support, dental implants do not cause any damage to the surrounding teeth. This keeps their natural structure and integrity intact.

  2. Ease of Maintenance: Dental implants can be cared for in the same way that natural teeth are. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are all that is required to keep them healthy.

Call us right now to schedule an appointment if you would like to maintain good dental health with regular checkups and cleanings.

Most people associate dental visits with painful procedures and cavities rather than the reasons why they are required. The majority of individuals take excellent care of their teeth, brushing and flossing regularly in an effort to keep their mouths clean and healthy. But occasionally, people continue to experience tooth decay. This can be brought on by a wide variety of factors, including our diet and drinks high in sugar. It is crucial to obtain fillings as soon as you discover them or as soon as your dentist Dr. Borham informs you that they need to be done.

Dental experts frequently use dental fillings to address existing tooth decay. Without fillings, problems could arise and finally result in tooth loss. It is critical to comprehend dental fillings; significance and the reasons behind their use if you wish to boost your oral health:

⮚ Keep Your Smile on:
Fillings have undergone numerous improvements, allowing for a wide range of alternatives to be accessible when a filling is required. With a porcelain filling that blends in with the surrounding teeth's color to prevent it from standing out, you can keep your smile. The porcelain fillings may be undetectable, allowing you to speak or smile each day with confidence.

⮚ To Avoid Tooth Decay:
Once tooth decay has begun, dental fillings are required to stop it and save the tooth. In addition to enhancing the tooth's structural integrity, fillings can also help the bite operate again. The filling may potentially stop a tooth from erupting.

⮚ Decrease Infections:
One of the main advantages of using dental fillings made of ionomers is that infections that could endanger your health if oral germs reach the pulp of the tooth are prevented. The tooth will start to die and eventually fall out after the pulp is harmed. Additionally, the infection has the potential to spread to other teeth and body parts, which could lead to serious sickness. You will require a root canal if the root becomes infected.

⮚ To Reduce Discomfort or Pain:
By shielding the nerves and filling up the decayed area, porcelain or composite fillings can reduce discomfort when cavities are ignored. You can resume eating cold or hot meals and beverages without fear of developing sensitivity due to the existing decay. Additionally, a sealer can be used to shield existing plaque from damage and stop plaque or degeneration from developing in the future.

You can avoid putting off getting treatment for tooth decay by realizing how important dental fillings are. You can keep the health of your teeth by getting the required filling. Do not put off getting a dental filling; call Mesilla Valley Family Dentistry right now to make an appointment.

The first step in treating your tooth sensitivity when you come to our dental office Mesilla Valley Family Dentistry is figuring out what is causing it. Both modest dental discomfort and unpleasant warning signs of more serious problems can cause tooth sensitivity. The typical sensation is a sharp or shooting pain that travels from your teeth into your gums and occasionally extends to the top of your head. The reason why some people claim to get a “brain freeze” after eating cold meals is because of this.

When the enamel, a tooth’s outer protective coating, has worn away, it often results in heat or cold-induced dental sensitivity. All of a tooth’s surface above the gum line is covered in enamel. The sensitive dentin of the tooth, which is located beneath the enamel and permits heat and cold to excite nerves, may become visible if the enamel is lost.

Additionally, due to receding gums, the cementum layer that covers the root may become exposed and create irritation.

The following are typical reasons for enamel loss that results in discomfort from heat or cold:

  • What Makes a Tooth Cold Sensitive:
  • Too much pressure when brushing, abrasive toothpastes, and hard bristles brushes can all wear down tooth enamel and cause sensitivity to cold temperatures.
  • If your teeth also pain while you’re eating, tooth decay may be the cause of your cold sensitivity.
  • Gum Disease, the accumulation of plaque on teeth, particularly at the gum line, is a precursor to gum disease, and a lot of plaque on the tooth surfaces can increase sensitivity to cold temperatures.
  • Cold sensitivity may be brought on by gum tissue recession, which can irritate the tooth’s nerve, which is contained in the inner pulp layers. The tooth roots are covered by the thinnest layer of enamel, so when the gums recede and expose the roots, teeth are more likely to be sensitive to cold.
  • Small crevices or cracks in teeth can grow into larger fissures as a result of the tooth enamel’s expansion and contraction in response to temperature variations. Cold sensitivity results from these fissures, which provide additional access to the tooth’s nerve.
  • What Makes a Tooth Heat Sensitive:
  • 80% of tooth sensitivity begins at the gum line, so it is not surprising that many people who are sensitive to heat also have gum disease and soft tissue recession.
  • An acidic diet, such as the acids found in coffee, tomato sauce, and other frequently eaten foods and beverages, can promote enamel erosion and hot beverage sensitivity.

Following a dental procedure, this is completely natural, but if it persists for more than a few weeks or worsens, get in touch with Dr. Borham.

The good news is that your issue is manageable if you experience tooth sensitivity when attempting to enjoy hot or cold delicacies. You might be able to treat the condition yourself by maintaining adequate dental hygiene. Additionally, do not wait until your subsequent examination if you have persistent tooth sensitivity if it worries you. Make an appointment at Mesilla Valley Family Dentistry as soon as possible. Dr. Borham will be able to identify the issue and provide you with the necessary care so you can resume enjoying food and liquids of any temperature.

Gum disease is a disorder that affects both adults and children. Gingivitis and other periodontal disorders can also affect children. You should be aware of if you think your child may have gum disease or if Dr. Borham has confirmed the diagnosis.

Each and every parent desires to shield their child from pricey and harmful dental issues. Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to maintaining good oral and gum health! You can prevent your child from ever developing significant gum disease by working together with Dr. Borham.

What more regarding gum disease should you be aware of? Here are five things you should be aware of:

  1. Gum Inflammation Is Cause for Concern

Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is the earliest stage of gum disease. Call your general dentist Dr. Borham to arrange an examination if you observe that your child’s gums are bleeding when they brush, are particularly red, or are swollen.

By avoiding sugar-sweetened beverages and foods, as well as regularly brushing and flossing, gum inflammation is curable, reversible, and preventable.

  1. The Signs of Gum Disease Can Be Mild

If your child’s gums are swollen or pulling away from their gums, you might not be able to tell what’s wrong. There can also be no discomfort or pain. Avoid delaying dental examinations and cleanings because of this.

  1. Regular Dental Checkups Are Important

Your general dental team uses specialized equipment and imaging to spot and address teeth and gum problems early on. Your dental staff can undertake a deep cleaning to get things back on track if they see symptoms of gum disease.

  1. Affected Permanent Teeth by Unhealthy Baby Teeth

When a baby tooth is lost too soon owing to decay or gum disease, issues with the permanent teeth may follow.

  1. Bacteria Can Spread Through Saliva

According to studies, continuous contact with someone else’s periodontal bacteria may cause infectious disease after a particular age. It is advised not to share utensils, cups, or anything else that comes into contact with the mouth if a teen in your family or you have gum disease.

Dr. Borham will go over all of the possible treatments if your child is found to have periodontal disease. The dental professionals will also assist you in teaching your child better oral hygiene practices.

Contact Mesilla Valley Family Dentistry immediately away to arrange for one of our compassionate, knowledgeable dentists to examine your child’s gums if they are swollen, bright red, or bleeding.

Do you avoid going to the dentist? Up to 20% of Americans may be anxious before an appointment, and most of them forego routine checkups out of acute dread. Routine dentist appointments are too important to skip, unlike phobias that do not need to be treated.

You already know that you do not need to be terrified of the dentist, so stop worrying. However, irrational concerns can be just as strong as real ones. The wonderful thing about phobias is that they are treatable.

It is never a good idea to forget to make routine appointments, no matter how dreadful going to the dentist might seem. Poor oral hygiene can result in a number of unpleasant issues.

To start getting over your dental phobias, use our top 9 advice for reducing dental anxiety:

  1. Find A Dentist Who Offers Phobia-Friendly Services.

We assure you that dental anxiety is such a widespread issue that many dentists including Dr. Borham take measures to reduce it. When you schedule your initial consultation, inquire about the office’s assistance for dental anxiety.

  1. Do Not Make Your Initial Visit by Yourself.

If you know your loved one is waiting for you in the lobby, you will feel more at ease.

  1. Be On Time but Avoid Being Too Early.

You do not want to have to wait a long time to visit Dr. Borham. So that you will be too busy to let your mind run wild, bring that magazine you have been meaning to read along.

  1. Utilize Some of These Tried-And-True Methods of Relaxing While You Are There.

When you discover an effective soothing technique, you will be astounded at how much control you actually have over your worry.

  1. Avoid Being a Martyr in Situations Where You Are Uncomfortable.

It is the responsibility of Dr. Borham to ensure that you do not experience any discomfort while they are operating in your mouth. Pain-free dentistry is a reality.

  1. For Appropriate Sedative Alternatives, Consult Your Dentist Borham.

The relaxing effects of nitrous oxide and oral sedatives are well-liked by patients. You might even be able to sleep through a challenging dental procedure.

  1. Rest Periods

When you need a break, stop. When it is required, a considerate dental team will allow you some downtime.

  1. Ask Questions

During a procedure, do not be scared to ask Dr. Borham to clarify what they are doing. You may frequently get through dental work with just a calm voice.

  1. Before You Leave Mesilla Valley Family Dentistry, Schedule Your Next Appointment.

If you do not have to call Mesilla Valley Family Dentistry later to make a follow-up appointment, you are more likely to show up.

Last but not least, modern dentist offices are friendly spaces that focus on effortlessly maintaining your smile’s health and brightness. As a safety net, use our dentist anxiety advice to help you get through your upcoming dental procedure. In return, you will get to enjoy a gorgeous, healthy smile.

Patients receive exceptional care from Mesilla Valley Family Dentistry. For our thorough, compassionate services, get in touch with us.