Helpful Articles.

As we embark into a new year, it’s the perfect time to give your smile the TLC it deserves. It’s time to place maintaining a dazzling grin at the top of your list! To guide you, here’s a fun and easy guide to keep your pearly whites in tip-top shape throughout the year.

1. Commit to an Oral Hygiene Routine

Kick off the year with an easy smile resolution! Commit to brushing twice a day, flossing at least once, and saying ‘cheese’ more often. Small, consistent habits lead to big, beautiful smiles.

2. Hydration

Water is your smile’s best friend! Stay hydrated to keep your mouth happy and reduce the risk of cavities. Plus, it’s the easiest way to wash away those pesky food particles rather than coating your teeth with another sugary drink.

3. Snack Smarter

Swap sugary snacks for smile-friendly alternatives. Crunch on crisp veggies or munch on calcium-rich cheese. Your teeth will thank you for choosing treats that promote dental health without compromising the deliciousness.

4. Schedule Dental Check-Ups in Advance

Make your dental check-ups something to look forward to. Schedule regular visits to keep your smile in check. Consistent dental check-ups ensure early detection of issues and keep your smile ready for all the selfies life throws your way.

5. Guard Your Smile

Do you play a sport? Do you want to play one this year? Don’t forget to guard your smile with a custom mouthguard. Dental injuries often happen from impact, and using a mouthguard for sports can reduce the risk of injury.

6. Find a Local Emergency Dentist

While we know no one wants to think about preparing for the worst, dental emergencies are still a possibility with all the preventive care. Instead of not knowing what to do during a dental emergency, ensure you have emergency dentist information on hand in the unlikely event.

Care for Your Smile at Spring Village Dentistry

Embrace these easy tips to make 2024 a year of grins and confidence. If you’re ready to get started, contact our Holly Springs dental office to schedule an appointment to get closer to taking care of your smile in the new year!

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In the quest for healthier teeth and gums, many people turn to natural remedies as an alternative to traditional dental care. But do these homegrown solutions perform compared to traditional options? In this blog, we’ll explore some popular natural remedies and separate fact from fiction when it comes to maintaining your dental health.

Oil Pulling: A Useful Addition?

Oil pulling is an ancient practice that involves swishing oil (typically coconut or sesame oil) in your mouth for 4 times a day, totaling 20 minutes. It can help remove harmful bacteria and promote better oral hygiene. However, recent studies found that rinsing with Chlorhexidine was more effective at reducing bacteria than oil pulling with sesame oil and took less time. As such, the American Dental Association does not recommend oil pulling and instead recommends brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and avoiding smoking.

Baking Soda for Teeth Whitening

Baking soda, a mild abrasive, is often touted as a natural teeth-whitening solution. While it can help remove surface stains, it’s not a substitute for professional teeth whitening! Overuse may damage tooth enamel, so it’s better to use a whitening toothpaste and consult with a professional.

Lemon Juice and Teeth Whitening

Lemon juice is another common natural way to whiten teeth. However, its high acidity can erode tooth enamel and make teeth more susceptible to stains in the long run. It’s best to avoid using lemon juice for teeth whitening!

Hydrogen Peroxide: Is It Safe?

Swishing with hydrogen peroxide can help reduce healing time of canker sores, reduce gingival inflammation, and whiten the teeth. However, chemical burns to the oral tissues can occur with usage longer than two minutes. As such, this home remedy should be used with caution. It is better to dilute over the counter hydrogen peroxide with half water, half peroxide, and avoid swishing for longer than a minute, and never more than four times a day.

Saltwater Rinse: Temporary Relief

Gargling with warm salt water can provide temporary relief from sore throats and gum irritations. It helps reduce inflammation and can be a valuable addition to your dental care routine. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to 1 cup of warm water and swish or gargle as needed.

Green Tea for Gum Disease

Green tea is rich in antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and fight the bacteria associated with gum disease. Some studies show green tea can inhibit periodontal bacteria. Regularly drinking green tea may contribute to better gum health. Just avoid loading your tea with sugar and counteracting its benefits.

Comprehensive Dental Care in Holly Springs, NC

While some natural remedies do offer benefits for dental health, others are myths or may even be harmful. While incorporating natural solutions into your oral care routine can be beneficial, it’s essential to remember that they should complement, not replace, proper dental hygiene practices like regular brushing, flossing, and professional check-ups. When in doubt, contact our office to learn more about maintaining and improving your smile!

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Traveling can be an exciting adventure, but it’s essential to prioritize your health, including your oral health, while on the go. Neglecting your dental care routine during a trip can lead to discomfort and potential issues. In this blog, we’ll provide you with valuable tips for maintaining excellent oral health while traveling. Read on to enjoy traveling and dental health.

Pack Your Dental Essentials

Before embarking on your journey, make a checklist of your dental essentials to ensure you have everything you need. We recommend ensuring you have the following:

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Dental Floss
• Travel-Sized Mouthwash
• Travel Toothbrush Holder

Stick to Your Routine

While it can be tempting to skip your dental care routine during a busy day of sightseeing or when you’re on a long flight, it’s crucial to maintain your habits. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove food particles and plaque.

Stay Hydrated

Traveling involves changes in climate and long hours on the road or in the air, which can lead to dehydration. A dry mouth can increase the risk of oral health problems like bad breath and tooth decay. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

Be Mindful of Your Diet

Exploring new cuisines is one of the joys of travel, but it’s essential to be mindful of your diet to protect your teeth. Limit sugary snacks and acidic foods, which can contribute to tooth decay. Opt for healthier options, and consume sweets and treats in moderation.

Prepare for Dental Emergencies

It’s wise to research dental care options at your travel destination. Know where to find local dentists or dental clinics in case you encounter a dental emergency. Having this information on hand can provide peace of mind and prompt action if needed.

Visit Our Dentist in Holly Springs, CA, Before You Travel

Maintaining oral health while traveling is essential for your overall well-being. At Springs Village Dentistry, we have emergency dental care and comprehensive services available. Whether you’re traveling or about to, get in touch with our dentist for your dental needs!

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Brushing is a fundamental part of your dental routine, but flossing plays an equally important role in keeping your teeth and gums in top-notch condition. Flossing removes food particles and plaque between your teeth, which your toothbrush can’t reach effectively. It only takes a couple minutes, and it’s a valuable time investment to protect your smile. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you floss properly.

How to Floss Properly

There are various types of string dental floss available. From nylon, woven, waxed, unwaxed, or flavored, it’s important to select your floss based on your preference and needs. While floss picks are handy for on-the-go, for regular oral hygiene, string floss will be more effective. However, the best floss is the one you will use daily. Once you’ve selected your dental floss, you can follow these five easy steps.

• Step 1: Cut an Adequate Length

Take about 18 to 24 inches of floss and loop it around your middle fingers. Leave an inch or two in between to work with.

• Step 2: Hold the Floss Correctly

Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers, leaving a small gap in between. This will give you the control you need to navigate around your teeth.

• Step 3: Gently Glide Between the Curves of the Teeth

Glide the floss gently between your teeth, hugging it around the base of each tooth in a “c” shape. As you curve the floss around the teeth, gently wiggle the floss up and down as you slide slightly beneath the gumline to remove plaque or food that may be lodged there. Be careful not to roughly snap the floss against your gums, as this can cause irritation or bleeding. Check out this video for more help.

• Step 4: Use a Clean Section for Each Tooth

As you move from tooth to tooth, unwind a fresh section of floss. Using the same section can transfer debris from one area to another.

• Step 5: Rinse and Dispose

Once you’ve flossed between all your teeth, rinse your mouth with water to wash away loosened debris. Dispose of the used floss properly. In your evening routine, it’s a good idea to floss and then brush.

Preventive Dentistry in Holly Springs, NC

Flossing should be a daily habit, just like brushing your teeth. And so should preventive dentistry appointments! At Springs Village Dentistry, our preventive dental services can improve your oral hygiene, reduce the risk of gum disease and cavities, and maintain a confident, healthy smile for years to come. Contact our office to schedule your visit!

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Summertime is the season for family vacations, lazy days by the pool, backyard barbecues, and weekend trips to the beach. With so much fun to be had, prioritizing your oral health could easily slip your mind. But taking care of your smile is a year-round job, and summer is the perfect time to schedule a dental check-up.

Relaxed Summer Vibes

Summer is all about slowing down and taking it easy, which makes it the ideal occasion to set aside some time for your oral health. Unlike the back-to-school rush that’s just around the corner, or the hustle and bustle of the holiday season a few months away, you can more easily find a quiet summer afternoon to schedule a trip to the dentist.

Time for Follow-up Appointments

Routine cleanings and exams are the cornerstone of dental care for many reasons, one of which is that they allow us to catch problems before they turn into a bigger headache. By staying on top of your oral health and scheduling a summer checkup, you are more likely to detect and treat dental concerns early, saving you time, money, and discomfort. If you require follow-up appointments, summer is a great time to take care of additional treatments.

Easily Schedule Appointments for the Whole Family

Take advantage of the kiddos being out of school to make dental appointments for the whole family. You won’t have to worry about your children missing class or waste time driving all over town facilitating pick-ups and drop-offs. Spring Village Dentistry offers convenient block appointments to accommodate families, we are open two Saturdays a month, and we also have extended hours several times per week!

Preventive Dental Care in Holly Springs, NC

If it’s been longer than six months since your last dental cleaning and exam, schedule a dental check-up at Spring Village Dentistry! Our team is always happy to answer any questions you have, and we provide a number of financial options to fit your budget. Make this summer one to remember with a healthy, beautiful smile—contact us today.

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A bright, white smile does wonders for your confidence. That’s why whitening products like strips, trays, and special toothpaste are so popular! With such a wide variety of store-bought products available, you might wonder if professional whitening is worth it. Are custom take-home kits better than whitening strips?

Why is custom whitening better?

When you get whitening strips from the store, none of your specific needs or goals are addressed. It’s a one-size-fits-all treatment that often leads to disappointing results. You may even experience unpleasant side effects like inflamed gums and lips. At our office, we offer ZOOM! Whitening, which uses custom-made trays that fit your mouth perfectly. The gel, which is stronger than store-bought strips, stays right next to your teeth and provides consistent whitening for your whole smile.

Can you take our whitening trays home with you?

If you want professional results but aren’t too eager to go to the office, we offer take-home whitening kits! You can whiten your teeth at home whenever you have time. We’ll always provide thorough instructions, so you know exactly what to do.

How do you maintain professional teeth whitening?

Professional teeth whitening provides long-lasting results, but it’s not a permanent treatment. You can maintain your bright new shade with a few lifestyle adjustments, like drinking darker beverages (like coffee and red wine) through a straw, avoiding overly acidic foods and drinks, and rinsing your mouth with water after meals. Good oral hygiene also protects your teeth from stains.

Visit Springs Village Dentistry in Holly Springs, NC for custom take-home whitening kits

Professional whitening is safer, more effective, and longer lasting than strips you buy in a store. At our office, Dr. Molta and Dr. Moore are proud to offer a take-home option, so you can enjoy the convenience of whitening at home with excellent results! If you’re interested in teeth whitening or any of our other services, please contact us today!

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