3 Ways to Maintain Whiter Teeth this Holiday Season  

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We all want white teeth, but sometimes maintaining white teeth can be difficult, especially in winter around the holidays. At this time of year, many people eat staining foods at every holiday event. From Thanksgiving through New Year’s, meals are an important part of the way we celebrate these special times with our friends and family.

It’s possible to keep up your good oral hygiene and white teeth at this time of year. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your teeth white throughout the holidays. Start by working with your dentist in Woodbury, MN, and by following these tips.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene Practices

Maintaining beautiful white teeth starts with maintaining good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice daily, once in the morning and once at night. Floss too, every day.

Many people use poor technique when brushing their teeth and flossing. You can learn the best way to do both of these things the next time you visit the dentist; just ask for a tutorial.

Swish With Water When Eating Staining Foods

Do you know which foods stain your teeth? Below are some examples:

  • Coffee
  • Tea
  • Red wine
  • White wine
  • Berries
  • Fruit pie
  • Gravy
  • Cranberry sauce
  • Tomato sauce

Eating these foods can leave deposits on your teeth, eventually leading to stains. You can prevent some of this staining by swishing your mouth with water after eating. Swishing with water can wash away some of the staining agents that cause your teeth to become stained during meals.

See the Dentist

Tartar and plaque on your teeth can absorb the staining agents on your teeth, eventually causing your teeth to become stained. One of the ways you can prevent this is by seeing the dentist for an oral examination and cleaning. Your dentist can remove the plaque and tartar, thus protecting your teeth from stains.

Your dentist can also offer your teeth whitening in Woodbury, MN. At Woodlane Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer teeth whitening services to help our patients maintain beautiful white teeth at the holidays and throughout the rest of the year.

Contact us to learn more about our professional teeth whitening services and to schedule your appointment today.

 

How Do Panoramic X-Rays Help Dentists Diagnose?

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Panoramic X-rays at the dentists can take photos of the entire mouth in just one click. Used for everything from extractions to implants, this diagnostic tool can be used on nearly any patient. The radiation dose is very small and only requires you to remove any metal objects or jewelry and don a lead apron for the test. We’ll look at how they work and why they’re been so helpful for dentists in Woodbury, MN.

How Panoramic X-Rays Work

Panoramic X-rays show the teeth, upper jaw, lower jaw, tissues, and all surrounding structures to the dentist, meaning they can examine the details of your bones and teeth. This is when they spot anomalies that could lead to larger issues down the road, such as a cyst in the jaw bone, impacted teeth, oral cancer, or gum disease.

Why It Matters

Your head, neck, and jaw can be photographed separately with traditional X-rays, but being able to see everything together is undeniably helpful for a dentist in Woodbury, MN. They get a better sense of how it all works together, which is the best way to diagnose early on — otherwise known as the best possible time for intervention. For more severe disorders like cancer, it can even save your life.

Small Shifts

When your teeth move, they do so at a very slow rate. If a dentist isn’t paying attention, they could easily miss the adjustments until your alignment is too far out of balance. With panoramic X-rays, dentists have an easy way to compare and contrast recent photos with those taken several years ago. Regardless of how old a patient is, this can be pivotal for treating different orthodontic conditions, including TMJ, in stages.

Find a Dentist in Woodbury, MN

A dentist that invests in the right kind of dental technology is a professional who’s looking out for the well being of their patients. At Woodlane Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, you’ll find that we use panoramic X-rays in Woodbury, MN to get a comprehensive understanding of the mouth, which can be instrumental in giving all of our clients world-class care. Contact us today to find out more about how our devices, including an intraoral camera, can all support your oral health.

A Look at the 3 Most Common Types of Cavities

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Got a cavity? If so, you are definitely not alone. This is one of the biggest reasons people have to visit a dentist for treatment outside of typical dental hygiene visits and checkups. While a cavity may be easy to recognize, you may not know that there are actually three major types of cavities. Each type can have bearing on how the dental filling treatment in Woodbury proceeds.

Smooth-Surface Cavities

Smooth-surface cavities develop on the enameled surface of a tooth, usually on a flat area. These cavities do develop relatively slowly, but they also need to be treated promptly to preserve the integrity of the tooth and prevent further deterioration. A smooth-surface cavity is considered to be the earliest stage of decay, so a standard filling and possibly even demineralization treatments may be recommended to help eradicate the problem.

Pit and Fissure Cavities

Pit and fissure cavities show up in the pits and crevices that are a natural part of the tooth. For example, if you look at one of the larger molars in your jaw, the tooth will have a deep ridge that runs through the center. A pit or fissure cavity is seated right along the low points in your tooth, which means it can be more likely to lead to extensive decay. These cavities may or may not reach into the dentin of the tooth, so getting a filling as soon as possible is important.

Root Cavities

Root cavities are some of the most severe types of cavities. These points of decay are more common among older adults but can happen to a younger person who develops a cavity and never has that cavity properly treated. Root cavities may require n extraction, but they may also be treated via a root canal if the dentist feels the tooth is salvageable in spite of the internal damage.

Need a Cavity Filled by a Woodbury Dentist?

Even the smallest cavity can mean a tooth is at risk of greater decay. Therefore, it is important that you speak with a Woodbury dentist for treatment right away for treatment. If you need an appointment, reach out to us at Woodlane Family and Cosmetic Dentistry.

4 Common Reasons a Tooth Must Be Extracted 

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 With a good preventative dental care plan, most people will never have to have a tooth extraction in Woodbury, PA. However, even with good dental care, occasionally, a tooth will need to be extracted. At Woodlane Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand how disconcerting it can be to have to get a tooth pulled, but we are here to help you every step of the way. Here are just a few reasons you may need an extraction.

1. Extensive Decay

The number one reason people have to get a tooth extracted is extensive decay. Extensive decay means you have a tooth that has deteriorated beyond a point where any form of treatment, such as a filling or root canal, would do any good. Usually, this problem happens when someone has developed a point of decay but avoids getting treatment for the cavity as soon as possible.

2. Crowding

Crowding is an oral health issue that occurs when teeth are growing in a crowded fashion in the gum line. This can happen because of genetics, not pulling teeth at the right time during your childhood years, and even because you have too many teeth or more teeth than what is considered normal.

3. Abscess

A dental abscess is an infection that stems from the root of the tooth. An abscess often stems from tooth damage that allows bacteria to slip into the root can reproduce to cause an infection. In some cases, a root canal can be done to save the tooth, but, occasionally, an abscessed tooth will have to be pulled to eradicate the infection.

4. Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease (gum disease) causes the deterioration of the soft tissue that supports your teeth. When periodontal disease is left untreated, the condition can affect the actual secured positioning of a tooth. A tooth may get so loose that it could almost be pulled out by hand.

Need to Visit a Woodbury Dentist?

So, you see, an extraction can be required for several different and unique reasons. Regardless of why a tooth needs to be extracted, it is important to make sure you speak with a Woodbury dentist about the issue right away. Prolonging treatment can have damaging repercussions for your oral health and even your smile. Reach out to us to schedule an appointment with our care team today.

Is It Too Late to Save my Smile?

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It’s never too late to save your smile. Your dentist in Woodbury, MN has a range of options to repair or replace damaged or missing teeth. Even a lifetime of neglect is fixable with the right dental care. Schedule an appointment today to find out what can be done to restore your smile to its intended brilliance.

Simple Options for Smile Repair

Smile repair options range from easy to complex, depending upon the shape and appearance of your teeth, jaw, and gums. Some procedures are more simple and others. They include the following.

Teeth Whitening

If your teeth and oral health are in relatively good condition, a simple tooth whitening might be all that’s needed to bring back the sparkle. Teeth Whitening uses bleach such as hydrogen peroxide to remove yellow stains from the enamel. As a result, your teeth look whiter and brighter than before.

You may need to have your teeth whitened if you drink a lot of beverages such as coffee, tea, or wine, that stain teeth over time.

Veneers

A second simple option for smile repair uses veneers, or thin shells of porcelain or composite to fix a range of unsightly tooth issues, including:

  • Cracks
  • Chips
  • Decay
  • Stains
  • Gaps

Veneers simply fit over existing damaged teeth, making them appear new again. Before fitting your new veneers, your dentist will shave down a portion of your natural tooth to allow the veneer to fit as it should.

Braces or Aligners

Braces and aligners help to straighten teeth that are crooked or unevenly spaced. They make your teeth appear more even and perfectly straight. They also eliminate unsightly gaps. Braces are typically made from metal and attach to your teeth with ceramic or metal brackets, which are then tightened periodically to move teeth into the desired position.

Aligners, alternately, are clear plastic trays that fit over your teeth. They’re less visible and do just as good a job as braces at moving teeth into position. Aligners are switched out periodically, and new trays are fitted into place. Aligners can be removed at night for sleeping and through the day for eating and cleaning.

Other procedures such as dental implants, dentures, crowns, and fillings will help to improve the appearance of your teeth, too. They also help to alleviate pain from toothaches to prevent decay and bone loss. If you’re interested in discussing your goals for smile repair with your dentist in Woodbury, MN, call Woodlane Family and Cosmetic Dentistry to schedule an appointment today.

3 Benefits of Panoramic X-Rays for Your Teeth

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X-rays at the dentist are standard procedure, so you may wonder if there’s a need for the panoramic version. These X-rays are actually more helpful for dentists in Woodbury, MN because they offer a comprehensive view of your mouth. We’ll look at three benefits you can expect from these more detailed images.

Early Detection

The dentist is essentially looking at every part of you, including the neck, jaw, and head. We often forget just how interconnected our body is, especially when we’re in pain. Dentists get a chance to see how everything is working together when they look at a panoramic X-ray, which can make it easier to identify anything from benign cysts to cancer. All the information they collect can make it easier to see dental abnormalities before they have a chance to get worse.

Changes Over Time

A panoramic X-ray every few years makes it easy to compare how the mouth changes over time. If there are any issues with the bone or teeth, it will be possible for the dentist to see where the problem stems and how it’s progressing. So if you’re experiencing headaches and you expect it might have something to do with dental pain, the dentist will be able to give you their expert opinion. If you’re looking for panoramic X-rays in Woodbury, MN, you can trust that you’re getting an accurate diagnosis based on real evidence.

Excellent for People of All Ages

In children, panoramic X-rays are used to monitor everything from cavity patterns to how the wisdom teeth are coming in. For adults, dentists use them to figure out how to treat dental disorders, including TMJ or abnormal growths. We especially recommend these X-rays to anyone who’s had ongoing issues with their teeth or jaw. There are plenty of people with unspecified issues who can be helped by this service.

Find a Dentist in Woodbury, MN

At Woodlane Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, panoramic X-rays are standard practice for us. When you visit our offices, you can rest assured that the images taken show a comprehensive view of everything happening in your head. Contact us to schedule yours today.

Summer Is Almost Here! 5 Tips to Keep Your Teeth Healthy this Season

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Summer is a time of year that presents its own unique oral hygiene challenges. Knowing how to take care of your teeth in summer can help you avoid stains and even a broken tooth! Whether you’re playing football in the yard or going to barbecues with friends, these tips can help you take care of your teeth. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Brush Your Teeth Twice Daily

Summer is a time when the kids are home from school, camping trips are scheduled, sleepovers happen – all outside the normal everyday routines. For some children, this means forgetting to brush their teeth. Keep up your everyday habit of brushing your teeth twice per day, and if you have a child, remind them to keep up with their normal toothbrushing habit as well.

2. Know Which Summer Foods Stain

Some summer foods can cause stains on teeth. These foods include berries, sodas, iced coffees, red wine and barbecue sauce. Knowing which summer foods are likely to stain your teeth can help you protect your pearly whites.

After eating staining food, swish with water to help clean your teeth. If you have time to brush your teeth – go do it! Knowing which foods stain can help you avoid stains. If your teeth do get stained, ask your dentist about tooth whitening services.

3. Bring Floss to Barbecues

What barbecue would be complete without corn on the cob? Bring floss to your next barbecue, and after eating corn on the cob, excuse yourself to the bathroom, where you can floss and get rid of the corn pieces that might be stuck between your teeth.

4. Make Summer Your Season for Getting a Checkup

Summer is a great time to get a checkup with the dentist! Make this the time of year when you go see the dentist and get your teeth cleaned.

5. Wear a Mouthguard When Playing High Contact Games Outside

Is this a time of year when you play high contact games or engage in activities like skateboarding? Wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from falls that could lead to a broken tooth.

Serious About Oral Hygiene? Call Today

This is a great time of year to see your dentist in Woodbury, MN. Call today to make an appointment!

Dentist in Woodbury, MN

Smile-Threatening Myths About Dental Care

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Your smile shows the world when you are happy and is a huge part of who you are. Plus, your oral health can have an effect on your overall health. Therefore, working with a dentist to make sure you have a good general dental care plan is ever-important. Unfortunately, many people avoid going to the dentist, and when they do, underlying myths could be to blame. Here is a look at some of the ongoing myths about general dental care that can actually be a threat to your smile and your oral health.

Myth: You don’t have to go to the dentist if there is nothing wrong.

The best dental care is more about prevention than treatment. You may not have anything wrong when you visit the dentist, but the dentist provides treatments, assessments, and advice to ensure you continue to not have any issues with your oral health. For example, simply having your teeth professionally cleaned annually can reduce the chances of decay by a substantial amount.

Myth: Dentists bring you in as much as possible to make money.

It may seem like you have to go to the dentist a lot if you have an issue being corrected, but the dentist is not doing repeat appointments to make more money. Oftentimes, treatments have to be split up over several appointments to protect you as a patient. For example, the dentist may do work on some teeth during one appointment and the rest of the teeth during another to allow proper time for healing between.

Myth: Dental care is painful and uncomfortable.

Modern-day dental care is far more comfortable than ever. Dentists have access to a number of solutions to help you stay comfortable and pain-free during treatment. You may have access to localized anesthesia, general anesthesia, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), and modern treatments that are less likely to cause discomfort.

Myth: A small cavity is really not that big of a deal.

One small cavity may seem like a minuscule issue. However, one small cavity means the enamel of the tooth has been compromised, which also means the tooth is now more vulnerable to further decay.

Protect Your Smile with the Help of Qualified Dentists in Woodbury, MN

Your oral health is ever-important to your overall health and well-being. If it has been a while since you have had a dental checkup, reach out to us at Woodlane Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to schedule an appointment.

The Top 10 Foods and Drinks That Can Stain Your Teeth

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With the holidays here, you might find yourself enjoying plenty of special treats and goodies. At Woodlane Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we encourage our patients to enjoy the decadence that the holiday season has to offer, but to do so with a bit of caution.

Why?

Because many of your holiday favorites could end up staining your teeth—not exactly the kind of gift you want to get.

The Top 10 Foods and Drinks That Will Stain Your Teeth

Teeth become stained when pigments from certain foods and drinks build-up in the thin film of protein covering tooth enamel. Some foods also contain a compound called tannin which increases the risk of teeth staining. In addition, highly acidic foods can wear down tooth enamel, further increasing your chances of discolored teeth.

With this in mind, here are the ten most notorious foods and beverages that can lead to stains:

  1. Coffee
  2. Red wine
  3. Tea
  4. Pop
  5. Fruit juices
  6. Tomato-based sauces
  7. Soy sauce
  8. Curry
  9. Balsamic vinegar
  10. Starchy foods, including pasta

You might be more likely to experience teeth discoloration if you have certain risk factors, including underlying dental disease, older age, a history of oral trauma, the use of certain medications, or even a genetic predisposition.

Fortunately, there are things you can do.

3 Quick Tips for Bright, Healthy-Looking Teeth From Our Woodbury Dentist Staff

  1. Avoid stain-causing foods and beverages—meanwhile, eat plenty of nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains to support optimal oral health.
  2. If you do consume any of the stain-inducing foods, be sure to brush your teeth immediately after consuming them.
  3. Treat yourself to professional teeth whitening services. While some over-the-counter options can work, they often cause unpleasant side effects like tooth sensitivity, and their results may not be as pronounced as you’d hope. Professional teeth whitening with our Woodbury dentist staff is effective and effecient so you can feel confident in your smile.

Do you live near Woodbury, MN and are looking for a family dentist who can help you and your loved ones have white healthy teeth throughout the year? Contact Woodlane Family & Cosmetic Dentistry today at (651) 731-1560 to schedule your next appointment with our Woodbury dentist team, Dr. Erlandson and Dr. Roehrich.

Why Flossing Is More Important Than You Think

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Even families who have good dental hygiene practices sometimes overlook daily flossing. And if you have young children who are just learning all there is to know about keeping healthy teeth and gums, flossing should be part of the routine. At Woodlane Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re committed to helping your whole family maintain beautiful smiles for life. Here’s why flossing several times a day can help make that happen

Dental Floss Reaches Places Your Toothbrush Can’t

Regardless of which type of toothbrush you buy or how much you pay for it, it’s simply not going to reach all the crevices between your teeth. This is especially true for teeth that fit tightly, neatly together. It’s easy to brush after every meal and still miss small particles of food that can cause plaque buildup and cavities. But when you use floss to get between teeth and into tight corners, even the tiniest debris gets flushed away. In this way, your mouth stays cleaner and you run less of a risk of tooth decay.

Flossing Helps Prevent the Onset of Gum Disease

The bacteria present in plaque are instrumental in causing gum disease. This is a condition that may cause gums to bleed and teeth to loosen. Gum disease causes other problems, too. These include:

  • Bad breath
  • Tooth loss
  • Gum infections
  • Pain and discomfort

If you have gum disease, your teeth may bleed when you brush them. This condition may also cause your gums to recede from your teeth and may even contribute to bone loss. Brushing your teeth regularly and flossing once daily goes a long way toward preventing gum disease.

Your Breath Stays Fresher With Flossing

All those little particles of food that lodge between teeth and linger cause bad odors inside your mouth. This can lead to chronic halitosis or constant bad breath. By flossing away debris before it has time to ferment or decay, you can keep the inside of your mouth smelling fresh.

Come see us today at Woodlane Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Woodbury, MN, for all your family’s dental health care needs. Offering convenient office hours and friendly staff, we’ll help keep your family in dazzling smiles for life. Call us today, or stop by to book your next appointment.