We all have saliva in our mouths. It is produced by the mouth, especially oral mucous and salivary glands. Water constitutes most of the ingredients present in the watery mixture of secretions, also known as saliva. Apart from water, it also consists of mucus, different enzymes, antibacterial compounds, and electrolytes. 

Salivary Glands

Our mouth consists of three major salivary glands followed by a few minor glands. These major glands mostly produce saliva. The role of minor glands in the production of saliva is negligible. But still, those present around our oral cavity produce saliva. The nature of secretions may, however, vary. It can be thick, or it can be watery. The enzymes present in the saliva are mostly ions and salivary proteins. All this plays an important role in your oral hygiene. 

Benefits of Saliva in Oral Health

Saliva plays the role of a cleansing agent within the mouth. It also facilitates the easy digestion of food. The taste buds of our tongues are stimulated with the help of saliva. Thus it helps in the easier digestion of food whenever we place it within our mouth. It is also a natural lubricant, thus helping in hassle-free chewing of the food and facilitating the easy movement of the chewed food into the digestive system. Thanks to its ability to moisten the food that makes swallowing much easier for us. 

Prevents Bacteria From Plaque Formation

As a cleansing agent, saliva helps remove food particles that accumulate within your mouth easily. Plaque and tartar are formed whenever bacteria that grow on the food debris accumulate within the tooth enamel. By removing the food particles, saliva keeps those bacteria at bay and thereby ensuring better oral health for you. In addition, the acids developed by the bacteria are neutralized by the ions present within the mouth, which further acts as a buffering system. 

If you have insufficient saliva, it can lead you to many oral health problems such as bad breath, tooth decay, gum diseases, gingivitis, etc. In addition, it can impact your chewing ability and even hinder the smooth swallowing possible due to sufficient saliva in your mouth. Thus saliva is not only a natural lubricant but is also anti-viral, antifungal, and antibacterial.

The best way to ensure that you have proper saliva production is to go for regular dental checkups in Winchester, VA. A dentist in Winchester will perform a detailed oral examination to know whether you have any oral health problems or not. Furthermore, they will discuss the best treatment options for you. Schedule an appointment with your nearest dentist in Winchester if you think you have a bad breath or tooth decay.  

In the long run, a tooth infection can cause plenty of problems. As a result, as soon as you see the symptoms worsening, you must seek treatment. Our dentists at Smiles Of Virginia have covered everything you need to know about dental infection in this blog.

What Is Tooth Infection?

A tooth infection, also known as a dental abscess or dental infection, is identified by the accumulation of fluid inside the gum tissues or teeth. The most common cause of dental infection is the buildup of excess plaque and tartar. This leads to severe bacterial infection.  The harmful germs breed in areas where plaque or tartar develops

Warning Signs Of Tooth Infection

There are several symptoms that show that you are suffering from a tooth infection. Your favorite Winchester dentist has listed these indicators below.

• Extreme tooth pain that reaches up to your ear
• Tooth sensitivity
• Pain while biting or chewing food
• Increase in body temperature
• Inflammation in your cheeks and facial tissues
• Inflammed lymph nodes
• Salty taste in your oral cavity due to abscess rupture
• Red facial tissues
• Swollen gum tissues
• Stains in your teeth
• Wobbly teeth
• Weird taste inside your mouth
• Persistent bad breath

How To Treat Your Tooth Infection

Treatment for tooth infection relieves pain while also preventing the spread of the infection. Based on the severity of the pain, your dentist in Winchester will begin treating your tooth infection using a dental X-ray. This will enable your dental care professional to determine whether the bacterial illness has spread to other areas of your mouth. These are the following treatment options but you must choose them depending on the intensity and type of abscess in your oral cavity

Draining The Abscess

To remove the pus from the tooth abscess, your Winchester dentist will cut into it. The region will be completely cleaned with a saline solution after that.

Root Canal Procedure

The abscess must be drained, and any diseased pulp must be removed. After that, your dentist in Winchester will fill in and shut the pulp chamber. To repair the affected teeth, you may be advised to get a dental crown.

Teeth Extraction

If the infected tooth is seriously damaged, your dental care professional may need to extract it and then remove the pus.

Ask For Medicines

If your immune system is weakened or if the bacterial infection has spread beyond the damaged tooth, your dental hygienist may prescribe an oral antibiotic to speed up your recovery. Thus you should contact your dentist as soon as you discover the danger signs.

Removal Of Foreign Substance

 A foreign object stuck in your gums can trigger a tooth abscess. In this scenario, your dental care professional would have to remove the foreign object and then clean the affected region with a saline solution.

We hope this blog has provided you with the required information. Get in touch with us at Smiles Of Virginia if you are looking for the best dental care procedures in Winchester, VA.

 

Mouthguards are types of dental devices that protect your teeth from further grinding while you are playing sports or suffering from sleep apnea. They can also help relieve stress by reducing snoring and treating sleep apnea. Your Winchester dentist may suggest one of these appliances if you have bruxism or other oral issues. These appliances can protect your teeth from decay and harm. These act as a barrier and can considerably improve the health of your teeth. Our dentists at Smiles Of Virginia will discuss why mouthguards are so important in this blog.

What Are Mouthguards?

Your dentist in Winchester will make you a mouthguard. A mold of your teeth will be utilized to make a mouthguard that fits comfortably in your mouth. They fit significantly better than stock or boil-and-bite mouthguards, making them more secure and difficult to remove accidentally while sleeping. These mouthguards are ideal if you grind your teeth, snore, or suffer from sleep apnea. Many dental insurance policies will partially or completely cover the cost. Do you have trouble deciding which mouthguard is best for you? Visit our dental office for the right advise.

Importance Of Mouthguards

The best Winchester dentist has created a list of benefits to assist families in making more informed decisions about dental mouthguards.

Perfect Texture

The thickness of your mouthguard will be determined by the sports you participate in. A boxer’s mouthguard will be significantly thicker than a tennis player’s. Boxing is more likely to cause serious oral injuries than playing tennis. This will ensure that you are properly protected when participating in sports.

Comfortable To Wear

Mouthguards are very easy to use since they don’t come off easily. This makes the healing process a whole lot easier. You can also engage in sports without feeling uncomfortable. What are you waiting for? Get your mouthguards today!

An Affordable Choice

Our mouthguards are reasonably priced. They help to protect you while also allowing you to save money on restorative procedures. They’re also good for your oral health and can help you avoid problems in the future. Hence, by using these devices, you could save money on future dental procedures.

Perfect Fit

Your dentist in Winchester will make a cast of your teeth. After that, it’s sent to a dental lab to be made into a personalized mouthguard for you. This is created just for your mouth, so it will fit and function properly. A one-size-fits-all approach isn’t always the greatest option.

Perfect Protection

When you clash with another player, a mouthguard protects your teeth from increased external pressure. Custom-fit mouthguards provide more protection than pre-manufactured mouthguards since they are tailored just for you.

We hope this blog has helps you to make better choices about mouthguards. Looking for the best mouthguards in Winchester, VA? Book an appointment with us at Smiles Of Virginia if and enjoy our wide range of dental care procedures.

Brushing your teeth, combing your hair, washing your face — going through the motions of your normal schedule is part of the routine for you. However, are you brushing your teeth properly? Pay close attention to these details and follow our instructions to combat plaque, clean your teeth, and maintain a healthy smile.

Your pearly whites play an important part in everyday life, from breaking down food to toothy greeting smiles. The best dentists in Winchester have come up with the most effective brushing techniques. Give the sections below a diligent read to gather a detailed idea.

The Most Effective Brushing Techniques

Brushing your teeth removes plaque and bacteria that build up on teeth and around the gum line over time. Plaque can cause cavities, tooth decay, and even periodontal disease if it is not eliminated on a regular basis. Brushing your teeth properly can preserve your teeth from decay and illness. Follow the steps mentioned below:

• Begin with your teeth’ outside surfaces. Please take your time! Brush your upper and lower teeth gently. Slowing down and not missing any areas can be achieved by going tooth by tooth.
• Make a 45° angle using your brush. To remove any stuck plaque or food debris, brush toward the gum line. Short, tooth-wide strokes are used to gently move the brush back and forth.
• Brush your teeth from the inside out. It’s easy to forgo cleaning the insides of your teeth since they aren’t as apparent, but these inner surfaces are just as sensitive to plaque. Brush back and forth at a 45° angle to clean the inside surfaces of the teeth.
• Brush your teeth’ biting surfaces. Brush the tops of your back teeth, where food can easily get lodged, with short back and forth strokes.
• Brush your teeth and clean your tongue. Brush your tongue to eradicate odor-causing bacteria for better breath.

Common Questions Related To Brushing

We have also provided you with answers to the common questions related to brushing. 

Q. How long should I wash my teeth and how often should I brush them?

A. Brush your teeth twice a day for a total of two minutes. Set a stopwatch or a timer to make sure you are paying adequate attention to your teeth.

Q. What kind of toothpaste should I use?

A. Plaque and food particles should be removed with a soft-bristled brush, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). A toothbrush with a narrow head will be able to reach all areas of the mouth more effectively. For those who have difficulties brushing or have limited manual dexterity, an electric toothbrush is a suitable alternative.

Q. Should I over brush my teeth ever?

A. Since you can overbrush, make sure you use a soft touch when brushing your teeth. Brushing too hard can cause abrasion, gum recession, and discomfort.

Q. What kind of toothbrush should be used?

A. Plaque and food particles should be removed with a soft-bristled brush, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). A toothbrush with a narrow head will be able to reach all areas of the mouth more effectively. For those who have difficulties brushing or have limited manual dexterity, an electric toothbrush is a suitable alternative.

Q. When should I replace my toothbrush?

A. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or when it begins to show signs of wear, whichever occurs first. To avoid reinfection, change your toothbrush after an illness.

We hope that going through this blog has been really helpful to gather complete knowledge related to brushing. Though, brushing and flossing are sometimes considered not enough to have healthy teeth and gums. Always remember that oral hygiene is key to a perfect smile. In case you are looking for the best routine dental care services in Winchester, VA, book your appointment at Smiles Of Virginia. We are always here to help you out in every possible way. 

 

Botox is probably something we’ve all heard about at some point in our lives. Many people use it to resolve cosmetic issues and maintain a youthful look. Botox is usually associated with beauty treatments. Did you know that dentists can also administer Botox injections? It’s also one of the safest ways to acquire fillers and injections. Let us find out how safe it is from our dentists at Smiles Of Virginia in this blog.

What Is Botox?

Before jumping into the other sections, one must gain a clear understanding of botox. Botulinum Toxin, also known as Botox, is an injectable drug used to treat several medical and aesthetic conditions. It promotes muscle relaxation and has been shown to help some patients who suffer from issues of migraines, bruxism, jaw clenching, and chronic muscle spasms. The effects of botox can last for up to 6 months.

Why Should You Get Botox From A Dentist?

Are you worried about the safety of the procedure? Your favorite Winchester dentist is well-trained and is highly equipped to administer such injections. Several reasons have been listed below that show why you should trust your dentist in Winchester with botox.

Helps To Prevent Premature Aging

Your Winchester dentist is the best person to consult about wrinkles. They can advise you on when to get your botox injections to prevent the development of wrinkles and to slow down the advancement. This will prevent your facial muscles from sagging and also make you look younger.

Helps To Treat Dental Issues

Other than addressing cosmetic problems, botox has also been known to treat several oral health conditions. Your dentist in Winchester will recommend you to go for Botox if you are suffering from severe cases of migraine, bruxism, and temporomandibular jaw joint disorders. Botox can also treat issues of gummy smiles and release tension around your eyes and your facial muscles.

Well-Trained For The Procedure

Dental care professionals have a good theoretical understanding of the anatomy of your face. They are the perfect people to deal with your individual needs because they have a thorough understanding of your facial muscles. They are also given specialized training so that they can be authorized to administer botox injections.

Highly Skilled

Our dentists are highly trained professionals with significant medical expertise. They have to undergo a rigorous qualification process and acquire a detailed understanding of your facial anatomy. They can also deal with any sudden complications that arise in your facial area. Dental care professionals usually perform several minimally invasive procedures throughout their careers. Hence, they are the best people to advise you and treat any issues related to the facial area.

Can Deal With Any Sort Of Complications

Getting Botox from someone who isn’t certified can be harmful. A simple procedure could turn into a complicated case. Dental care professionals, on the other hand, are well-versed with such procedures and are well-equipped to handle any complications.

Trained To Administer Injections

Injections are given by dental hygienists on a regular basis. This indicates that they are the most qualified to administer your botox injection. They will also ensure that the entire procedure is painless and swift.

We hope this blog has helped you to understand why you should get botox from a dentist. Looking for the best botox-related services in Winchester, VA? Book an appointment with us at Smiles Of Virginia today and enjoy quality dental care.

The technique of discovering cancer before symptoms develop is known as screening. This can aid in the detection of cancer at an early stage. It may be easier to treat aberrant tissue or cancer if it is discovered early. Cancer may have spread by the time symptoms show. Mouth cancer is defined as any malignancy of the mouth. A dentist or dental hygienist will examine several parts of the mouth that you may not have considered. The screening includes your mouth cavity and any associated tissues, including the neck, sinuses, larynx, and pharynx.

What is oral cancer screening?

Before proceeding, here is an overview of oral cancer screening. Oral cancer screening is a procedure in which a dentist or doctor examines your mouth for symptoms of cancer or precancerous diseases. The objective of oral cancer screening is to detect mouth cancer as early as possible when there is a better possibility of a cure. During a normal dental visit, most dentists will examine your mouth to check for oral cancer. Certain dentists may employ additional tests to aid in the identification of areas of abnormal cells in your mouth.

Screening Devices for Oral Cancer

Your oral care professional may need to utilize specialized examination devices during an oral cancer screening. These are some examples:

• An oral brush biopsy, extracts cells for testing in a painless manner.
• A fluorescent light-based improved oral evaluation system tool for identifying questionable oral tissues.
• An oral lesion screening that employs the use of a mouth rinse to aid in the visual examination of your mouth’s tissues.

Why is oral cancer screening done?

Oral cancer screening seeks to detect mouth cancer or precancerous lesions that may develop into mouth cancer at an early stage when the disease or lesions are easiest to remove and most likely to be treated. People at high risk of oral cancer may benefit more from screening, however, studies have not conclusively shown this. The following factors can increase the risk of developing mouth cancer:

• Tobacco use in any form is prohibited, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and snuff.
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Previous diagnosis of oral cancer

The number of persons diagnosed with mouth and throat cancers has been increasing in recent years, but the reason is unknown. Human papillomavirus, a sexually transmitted infection, is linked to an increasing number of these malignancies.

The necessity of oral cancer screenings 

The significance of early detection of oral cancer cannot be emphasized. With just two easy, non-invasive screenings every year, you can increase your chances of early identification and effective treatment. And because they’re already part of your routine checks, they couldn’t be simpler. While professional screenings are important, it’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for the following signs and symptoms between visits:

• Any open sores or lesions that haven’t healed in two weeks.
• Changes in your tone of voice.
• Jaw stiffness or discomfort
• You get the sensation that something is continuously trapped in your throat.
• A lump or hump that has recently formed.
• A throbbing sore throat that won’t go away.
• Having difficulty chewing or swallowing.

We hope that this blog has provided you with proper knowledge about the importance of oral cancer screening. If you’re searching for the best oral cancer screening service in Winchester, VA, visit Smiles of Virginia. We provide a full range of dental procedures to meet all of your oral needs.