Oral Care Guide

December 6, 2022

No question, visiting a dentist for preventative care may be one of the most important things you can do for your oral health. However, a lot of your oral health truly is in your hands. In fact, you can make several changes right now that may make a difference in your oral health. Check out five things to start doing today to make sure your smile is well-protected.


1. Skip the Soda


Soda is acidic, sugary, and contains artificial colors—all three can be bad for your teeth. If you are usually sipping on soda, consider limiting your intake to protect your teeth. Try having a soda with your meal, for example, but sip on water outside of meal times. 


2. Use Mouthwash


Mouthwash is often deemed as an unnecessary step in the dental hygiene process, but it really does offer a lot of advantages. For one, if you miss any bacteria while brushing and flossing, mouthwash will take care of it. Using mouthwash may also help with bad breath, fight plaque buildup, and reduce the risks of tooth decay. 


3. Stay Hydrated


Proper hydration is extremely important for your oral health just as it is for the rest of your body. For example, water supports saliva production, and saliva helps keep your mouth clean and bacteria levels at a healthier state. Try to get in ample water on a daily basis and keep your mouth feeling hydrated—you will do your smile health a favor. 


4. Limit Sugar and Starch Intake


Plaque develops on teeth when the sugar and starches are broken down by bacteria in your mouth and the particles stick to the teeth. Therefore, cutting sugar and starch intake can actually reduce how much plaque buildup you have on your teeth on a daily basis. 


5. Don't Forget to Floss 


Flossing is incredibly important, but over half of adults may not floss at all. Ironically enough, about 50 percent of cavities actually start between the teeth where flossing is most beneficial. If you are guilty of skipping the floss when you brush, picking it back up daily may drastically cut your chances of problems with decay and gum disease. 


Find a General Dentist to Help


Need a dentist to help you keep tabs on the health of your smile? At Rayford Dental, we'd be happy to give you just that. Reach out to our office to schedule an appointment. 

What’s the Best Fit for Me When I’ve Lost a Tooth?

April 21, 2025
Losing a tooth can be unsettling, but modern dentistry offers several effective solutions to restore your smile and oral health. The best option for you depends on various factors, including your dental health, budget, and personal preferences. Below, we explore three common tooth replacement options and the situations where each might be the best fit. 1. Dental Implants: A Permanent and Natural Solution Best for: Individuals looking for a long-term, natural-feeling replacement with strong functionality. Dental implants are considered the gold standard for tooth replacement. They consist of a titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone, acting as an artificial root. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone, providing a sturdy foundation for a custom crown. Example: If you’re a young professional who lost a front tooth in a sports accident and wants a durable, aesthetically pleasing solution, an implant is ideal. It preserves bone structure and functions just like a natural tooth. 2. Dental Bridges: A Reliable Fixed Option Best for: Patients missing a single tooth or a few adjacent teeth who prefer a non-surgical approach. A dental bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth held in place by crowns attached to the neighboring teeth. It’s a great choice if the surrounding teeth are strong enough to support the bridge. Example: If you lost a molar and want a fixed replacement without undergoing surgery, a bridge can restore your ability to chew properly while maintaining a natural look. 3. Removable Dentures: A Cost-Effective and Versatile Choice Best for: Those who need an affordable, non-invasive solution, especially if multiple teeth are missing. Partial or complete dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth. While they don’t offer the same stability as implants or bridges, they can be a practical option for patients who are not candidates for surgery. Example: If an elderly patient has lost multiple teeth due to aging but prefers a budget-friendly solution, a well-fitted partial denture can improve both function and appearance. Which Option is Right for You? Choosing the best tooth replacement depends on your oral health, lifestyle, and financial situation. Consulting with a dental professional can help you determine the ideal solution tailored to your needs. At Rayford Dental , we’re here to guide you through every step of your tooth replacement journey. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find the best option for your smile!

Does Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign? What You Need to Know

March 25, 2025
Does Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign?