As you probably know, October is Dental Hygiene Month! The purpose of this month is to raise awareness about the importance of good oral hygiene. In honor of this month, here are our favorite hygiene tips to keep your mouth healthy and your smile bright:
1) Are You Brushing Properly?
You should be brushing your mouth, not just your teeth, but you know that, right? Hopefully! When you brush, you should be hitting your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth. All of these areas are prone to the buildup of bacteria and infection, and brushing them helps cut down on this risk.
Make sure your brush is at a 45-degree angle when brushing near the gum line. You should brush in a small circular motion. Be gentle and use a soft-bristled toothbrush: being too aggressive can cause issues for your gums!
2) Remember the Number “2”
What does “2” have to do with your dental health? Simple! Remember to brush your mouth twice a day for two minutes each time. Two minutes may be longer than you think, so set a timer on your phone to make sure you are hitting your target. When teaching your children good dental habits, invest in an hourglass or timer so that they have a visual illustration of how long two minutes actually is. Studies have shown that how long you brush is the most important part and that two minutes is the optimal amount of time!
3) Floss Floss Floss
Flossing is one of the main aspects of oral health care that often gets skipped over. This is unfortunate because flossing is important, if not crucial, for your teeth and gums. Dental floss can get the areas in between your teeth that brushing simply cannot do alone. Although it may be uncomfortable at first and your gums may feel tender, getting into the habit of flossing daily will pay off in the long run.
4) You Are What You Eat
There’s more to oral health than just brushing and flossing. In fact, your diet can greatly impact the appearance and health of your teeth. Drinks like wine and coffee can stain your teeth. Excessive sugary foods like candy and soda can be the beginning of cavity development. We know that some sugar is unavoidable, so rinse your mouth out with water if possible after ingesting sugary foods.
5) Invest in Fluoride Treatment
Many people know that fluoride is part of the dental cleaning process and that it is infused into our water supply, but aren’t entirely clear on what fluoride actually does. Fluoride helps to strengthen the surfaces of your teeth. It also helps prevent cavities from developing months after the treatment has been administered.
What’s the best form of dentistry? Preventative, of course! Good oral practices and care can prevent lots of pain, time, and money in the future. The better your dental habits are now, the better off you will be in the future. One way of keeping your mouth happy and healthy is by coming to the dentist regularly. When you come to see us, we will give you a thorough tooth cleaning and look for any signs of dental issues. By catching things early, we are able to treat you quickly and efficiently.
Dental Hygiene Month is a fun reminder to take care of your teeth and gums, but you should be practicing good oral habits every month! If you have any questions about your oral care or if you are due for a check-up, come see us. We, here at 5Points Advanced Dentistry, want to keep your dental health on track.
Who doesn’t dream of having the perfect smile? However, a lot of us don’t want to go through the trouble of getting braces to achieve our dream smile. Fortunately, Invisalign clear aligners give you the option to get straight teeth without the hassle of braces!
Braces are still used to straighten teeth, but they are not the only option for patients. Braces use brackets with wires connecting them. These wires are made to move the teeth slowly in one direction as they guide the teeth to a more even position. The brackets come in clear plastic or metal materials and have bands that come in a variety of colors. But, unfortunately, braces are limiting to what a patient can eat, and they can be uncomfortable and not very aesthetically-pleasing.
Invisalign offers a great solution to these problems. They work in a similar fashion as traditional braces, but they are removable and transparent, making it a virtually invisible treatment option for people who want to keep their dental treatment on the down-low. Invisalign aligners are custom-made retainers that change the position of the teeth over time. They serve the purpose of braces, but they are clear and don’t have the same restrictions as braces do with their brackets and wires.
Why would I choose Invisalign?
Apart from their convenience and invisibility, there are still even more reasons as to why they may be the perfect option for you. Below are many benefits to Invisalign that demonstrate why so many people love this treatment option.
Confidence
Many of us hate the look of traditional braces and feel uncomfortable getting them, especially as an adult. Invisalign offers a great way to feel confident showing off your smile while striving to perfect your teeth and bite.
As effective as traditional braces
Invisalign aligners offer fantastic results, as good as traditional braces. Overbites, underbites, gaps, and overcrowding can all be fixed with Invisalign. During this treatment, you will be fitted with several different invisible retainers that make tiny adjustments to the position of your tooth over time. These aligners are made from a plastic material, and they fit perfectly over the teeth.
Eating habits
There are some things that you cannot eat when you have braces. You have to avoid eating certain sweets, popcorn, raw carrots, apples, bagels, etc. With Invisalign aligners, you will bypass these restrictions because you can remove them when you are eating and indulge in anything you want!
Cost-effective
Invisalign is also a cost-effective way to straighten your teeth. You can get them directly through your dental office, so you already know if your dentist takes your insurance and can work with them to find out how much coverage you have or a payment plan that works for you. Some dentists and orthodontists even offer monthly payments to make the treatment affordable and convenient.
Convenient Treatment
The Invisalign treatment takes 12 months on average depending on the condition of the teeth that need to be moved. Your follow-up visits to your dentist along the way are usually very short, about every 6 weeks or so. This allows your dentist to make recommendations and check your progress to ensure your teeth are moving together correctly.
Aesthetics
This is probably one of the main factors as to why Invisalign is the preferred treatment by most people over traditional braces. Not only do they give you the great results you are looking for, but they are also almost invisible! People will barely notice you’re wearing them, and you are able to remove them at any time to fit your lifestyle.
Fix your bite
This aligner doesn’t only help you feel confident smiling, but it also works to improve your health. When your bite is corrected, you can relieve jaw and joint pain, headache pain, and improve how you chew to better your overall health.
Reduced pain during treatment
If you grind your teeth, it can make your muscles sore and cause other dental problems. The treatment for this is usually a custom mouthguard. However, wearing Invisalign aligners will also help protect you from grinding your teeth because of the protective layer between the teeth.
Improve your dental hygiene
When you have traditional braces, there are a lot of hard-to-reach places to brush and floss to keep your teeth clean. On the other hand, with Invisalign, you can remove your aligners and you can brush and floss your teeth easily without barriers. Not to mention, that when you have crooked or cluttered teeth, it is more difficult to clean them and bacteria can grow with ease. Once the aligners straighten your teeth, it will be easier to clean them and ensure you don’t have plaque or tartar build-up.
No discoloration
It is possible to get teeth discoloration when you have other dental treatments like braces. This can occur when the patient is eating sugary foods or drinks that leave stains, such as coffee, tea, wine, etc., and not taking time to clean all the nooks and crannies of his or her braces. Although you can still get teeth discoloration without braces, your chances are lower with Invisalign, as you can take out your clear aligners at any time and easily brush or floss each area of your teeth.
How to use Invisalign
To be successful with this treatment, you need to wear them at least 20 to 22 hours a day. This means that you need to wear them all day and night with the exception of removing them when you are eating or brushing your teeth. This ensures that your teeth are moving in the right direction and not reverting back to their original state. After your Invisalign treatment has been completed, you risk the teeth returning to their original form. To counter this, your dentist can offer you a retainer to wear at night to ensure that you maintain your beautiful new smile.
If you have cracked or dull teeth, you may suffer from low self-esteem. If this is the case, and you no longer want to be embarrassed by your teeth, a smile makeover may be a worthwhile consideration. A smile makeover begins with a dentist looking at your entire mouth, discussing your concerns, and choosing procedures that will improve your smile. Afterward, you will want to show off your pearly whites instead of hiding them.
What are the Benefits of a Smile Makeover?
A smile makeover will restore both function and aesthetics to your mouth. For example, if you have a misaligned bite, we can correct the problem so you can chew properly and smile without being self-conscious. Damaged or crooked teeth can also be repaired, and missing teeth can be permanently replaced. After a complete smile makeover, you will enjoy a beautiful smile, enhanced tooth structure, better jaw health, and improved self-confidence.
What Procedures are Involved in a Smile Makeover?
A smile makeover usually consists of numerous cosmetic procedures. For example, a patient may receive dental implants, veneers, Invisalign, or whitening treatments. Before forming a plan of action, a dentist will examine your gums, teeth color, and the overall condition of your mouth.
Color. If your teeth are stained, or you have amalgam fillings that bring a damaged look to your teeth, the color can be improved with white fillings or a whitening procedure. Thanks to today’s technology, it is possible to perfectly match the color of your existing teeth. A professional whitening treatment provides faster and better results than an OTC product or kit. In-office procedures include the application of high-dose hydrogen peroxide. When performed correctly, it is possible to whiten teeth a few shades after one visit. Also, veneers may be placed over teeth to improve their shape and color.
Alignment and Spaces. If your teeth are crooked, or your mouth has visible gaps, we can correct this as well. Invisalign is a set of clear molded braces that straighten teeth without the use of traditional metal brackets. Clear trays are custom fit and work to correct misalignments. It is possible to wear them without people noticing, and remove them for cleaning. Also, veneers may be applied to teeth that are chipped, leaning, or imperfect in other ways.
Missing Teeth. One of the most common ways that a smile makeover improves a person’s appearance is by replacing missing teeth. If you have spaces in your mouth, it may be impossible to eat or speak correctly. Dental implants are permanent solutions that look and function like real teeth. They are implanted into the jaw, which means that they are not removable like dentures. Dental crowns are placed over the implants to make them look just like your natural teeth. These may also be used as part of a bridge. Both bridges and crowns are cemented on top of existing teeth to repair them. Bridges are used to fill spaces where more than one tooth is missing. By filling in these gaps, your jaw and facial shape can be preserved. Crowns offer strength to damaged teeth as well.
Bone Reshaping. If you have lost one or more of your teeth, there will be a hole left behind in your jawbone. Your gums will eventually heal, but the bone will encounter various highs and lows. These can cause dentures or similar restorations to rub and cause soreness. In time, the bone will become lost. To smooth the bone, a reshaping surgery, or alveoplasty, may be necessary.
Targeting Teeth in a Smile Makeover
A smile makeover targets your teeth so that they look aesthetically pleasing. It is important to pay attention to the smile line. This goes along the upper teeth and should follow the curve of your lips during a smile. It is essential to adjust tooth length and proportion as well. When a person is young, his or her teeth are longer. With time, teeth begin to wear down and become shorter. Veneers can restore length. Also, it is possible to modify the gums. Gum tissue reshaping helps people who have uneven, obtrusive or receding gums.
Besides leaving a smile looking better, it also helps to prevent periodontal disease. When gums are receding, teeth are left exposed and pockets commonly develop. These pockets accumulate bacteria that can cause severe problems.
Who is a Good Candidate for a Smile Makeover?
Anyone looking to improve their oral and overall health may take advantage of a smile makeover. If you are unhappy with the look of your teeth, Dr. Imm, who specializes in cosmetic dentistry, can help. He can meet with you to do a thorough examination of your teeth and mouth and discuss exactly what results you are looking for in the smile makeover.
How to Maintain Results of a Smile Makeover
After undergoing a smile makeover, a patient must change his or her oral hygiene routine in order to maintain positive results. It is essential to brush with a non-abrasive toothpaste and to floss each day. Removing debris from between teeth will elongate the lifespan of any cosmetic procedure and keep tooth decay from starting.
If you receive composite fillings or crowns, it is best to avoid mouthwash that contains alcohol. This is known to have negative effects. Also, we will advise you to avoid foods that are packed with sugar and items that are known to cause staining (coffee, cigarettes, etc.).
Finally, please avoid biting or chewing hard objects (such as ice). Even though cosmetic restorations are sturdy, the best way to ensure a long life for your new smile is to act with care. Your dentist will be able to provide more advice when you meet so that you can easily maintain the results of your smile makeover.
Before you decide to pursue a smile makeover, it is vital to understand what can realistically be accomplished. At 5 Points Advanced Dentistry, we offer all patients previews of expected results. We use state-of-the-art imaging technology and various mock-ups so that it is possible to see all of the improvements that a smile makeover will bring. We provide customized plans for all of our patients so that individual needs are targeted. For more information, call our office today.
Did you know that 48% of people will say that a smile is the most memorable feature after they meet someone for the first time? At 5 Points Advanced Dentistry, we understand that the aesthetics of your smile are just as important as your oral and overall health. One of the most important parts of ensuring healthy teeth and gums is choosing the right dentist for you and your family. At 5 Points Advanced Dentistry, we are ready to meet and exceed your needs.
Dr. John Imm is the dentist at our office. He has had extensive education and experience, including The Ohio State University College of Dentistry and a fellowship at The International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He did his residency in Advanced General Dentistry at the University of Florida. This residency education is part of the reason he chose to name his practice 5 Points Advanced Dentistry. Dr. Imm is passionate about continuing his education and keeping up with all of the advancements in dental care and technology.
Why Should You Choose 5 Points Advanced Dentistry as Your Family Dentist?
Preventive dentistry is important for individuals of all ages. Semi-annual dental exams are not just for cleaning, but for screening for underlying issues like cavities. If there are more serious issues, like precursors to gum disease, we will be able to catch it before it progresses further. From routine checkups and cleanings to information about home oral care, every visit to 5 Points Advanced Dentistry will help improve your dental and overall health.
Dr. Imm is passionate about creating a positive, caring dental experience for every patient—old and young. Our highly trained team will do all we can to make you feel comfortable as soon as you arrive at our office. We hope that we show you that we truly care about each patient, so you know you have a found a dentist you can trust.
Our compassionate approach is especially great for young children and adults who have had bad experiences in the past. Fear is one of the main reasons people avoid dental visits, so everyone in your family will appreciate our down-to-earth approach. From toddlers to grandparents, we will do all we can to ensure your entire family looks forward to appointments. Our personalized care will make every visit a pleasant experience.
You should visit the dentist at least twice each year. A comprehensive exam will help us detect dental issues in their earliest stages. Early treatment costs less, involves less discomfort, and produces the best results. The exam will provide a whole picture of your oral health.
A thorough cleaning can also prevent future dental problems. During a professional cleaning, our hygienists are able to remove tartar and plaque that cannot be removed with your toothbrush and floss. When combined with a solid home oral care routine, a semi-annual cleaning will help you avoid cavities and gum disease. General dentistry should be one of the top priorities for you and your family.
Why Should You Choose 5 Points Advanced Dentistry as your Cosmetic Dentist?
We believe everyone deserves a beautiful smile. At 5 Points Advanced Dentistry, our cosmetic dentistry procedures include:
Smile Makeovers
Invisalign
Teeth Whitening
Crowns and Bridges
Composite Fillings
Dental Implants
Smile Makeovers
At 5 Points Advanced Dentistry, Dr. Imm will consult with you about your goals for your dental health and appearance. Then, he will develop a smile makeover treatment plan that will focus on reaching those goals. Because every patient is different, each smile makeover process will be unique. When we consult with our patients about a smile makeover, procedures we may recommend include composite bonding, dental implants, Invisalign, teeth whitening, and others.
Invisalign
Adults and teenagers who need braces often hesitate when it comes to old-fashioned metal braces. These braces may be viewed as unattractive and can be uncomfortable. One alternative option to consider is Invisalign. This orthodontic treatment is effective, fast, and discreet because the customized, clear braces are nearly invisible. Invisalign braces are easy to clean as well because they can be removed.
Teeth Whitening
We provide a few different teeth whitening options for our patients. Our Zoom! In-Office Whitening procedure is fast, effective, and customized for you specifically. With this treatment, will be able to whiten your teeth several shades in just one visit.
Our DayWhite® or Opalescence® Boost take-home teeth whitening kits are affordable options for patients who want to whiten their teeth. For this treatment, we will prepare trays filled with the whitening solution for you to take home. You will be able to wear these trays when it is most convenient for you and you will see results within 10 to 14 days.
Crowns and Bridges
A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that fits over your tooth to repair and strengthen it. These are necessary after you undergo a root canal treatment or if your tooth has sustained damage or trauma. Because each crown is custom, it will be made to match your surrounding natural teeth.
We can use a bridge to fill a gap between two teeth. A bridge is a set of two or more crowns custom-made to resemble your missing teeth. These are attached to the surrounded teeth to fill the gap and recreate your smile.
Composite Fillings
After Dr. Imm cleans out a cavity, he will fill it with a composite filling. This is a tooth-colored filling that will protect your tooth from further decay.
Dental Implants
Dr. Imm can use dental implants to replace one or more missing teeth in your mouth. Implants can preserve your jaw bone, so you do not experience bone loss, and will fill the gap between your teeth, so your natural teeth will not shift.
Dental Procedures For Special Problems
At 5 Points Advanced Dentistry, we are ready to assist with all of your dental care needs. Dr. Imm also takes special care to focus on your whole mouth and overall health. Studies have found that the condition of your gums and teeth is actually linked to your overall health, so Dr. Imm has become more focused on this and making sure we uncover all underlying problems.
If you are experiencing oral pain or discomfort, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. It’s not necessary to wait until your semi-annual exam if you have an immediate problem. Dr. Imm will be happy to take a look and determine which route would be best for treatment.
For example, if you are experiencing jaw pain or popping, you may have a disorder called TMJ (Temporomandibular joint) Disorder. Many people develop this disorder if they grind their teeth at night. This is something Dr. Imm has a lot of experience diagnosing and treating. At 5 Points, we can create a custom mouthguard to prevent further grinding, and provide more advanced treatment if necessary. Taking these measures against nighttime teeth grinding can preserve your gums and teeth, and keep your jaw healthy.
If you do have TMJ, the condition affects the placement of your ligaments and jawbones. This altered position can cause your airway to be narrowed. A narrowed airway can lead to mouth breathing during sleeping and snoring and can even cause your airway to collapse. This is one of the things that Dr. Imm is particularly focused on uncovering if the problem exists. Your health is important to him and all of us here at 5 Points.
If you have tooth pain, there are several causes that could be behind it. You may need to have a tooth extracted, periodontal care, bone reshaping, or crowns. Whatever your particular situation may be, we are here to help. So, don’t wait until your regularly scheduled appointment if you have an oral health concern—contact 5 Points Advanced Dentistry.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
We are the dental team for your toddlers, teens, adults, and seniors. Whether your family members all come in at the same time, or appointments are scheduled on different days, you will quickly see why so many people in the Columbus, Ohio area choose us.
If it has been more than six months since you have had a checkup, you are experiencing an oral problem, or you have questions, this is the ideal time to contact us for an appointment. Simply call us at 614-451-5435 or email us at info@ua5pointsdentistry.com. Our friendly, compassionate staff wants to meet you, and help you have the best oral health possible! We look forward to meeting you and your family.
importance of good oral hygiene. In honor of this month, here are our favorite hygiene tips to keep your mouth healthy and your smile bright: 
