Redondo Beach Dental Group

Take a Tour of The Redondo Beach Dental Group Office

A Guide to Choosing the Right Toothbrush for You

With many toothbrush options available, making the right choice may seem difficult. However, there are a few factors that can help you choose the right toothbrush for your daily oral care routine. If you have questions about choosing a toothbrush and using it properly, contact your dentist or talk to him during your next dental checkup.

Soft Bristles
Although toothbrushes with medium and hard bristles are available, you should only ever use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth. Harder bristles can irritate and eventually damage tooth enamel and gum tissue, leading to receding gums and tooth sensitivity. Brush with gentle pressure only, as excessive pressure can also lead to damage of teeth and gums.

Properly Sized Head And Handle
Make sure the toothbrush you choose has an appropriately-sized head and handle for you to use. Your toothbrush handle should fit comfortably into your hand and the head should be easy to move around your mouth for full coverage while brushing. If you have problems with mobility or arthritis, a toothbrush with a longer handle can aid your daily dental care routine. For children, select a smaller toothbrush with a small head and handle for easy handling and proper brushing.

Manual Vs. Electric
Should you use a manual or an electric toothbrush? You can actually use either, as long as you use it properly. Brush for a full two minutes, two to three times a day. Many electric toothbrushes have timers to ensure you are brushing for long enough. Angle the toothbrush so its bristles are at a 45-degree angle to your gums, and move the brush in a circular, not side-to-side, motion.

If you have questions about choosing the right toothbrush to suit your needs, talk to your dentist at the Redondo Beach Dental Group by calling (310) 542-6988. We offer family dental services and information regarding at-home oral care. You can find more information about us on our website. 

Learn More About Your Dental Care by Reading Through These Informative Links

Keeping your mouth healthy can benefit your overall wellness in many ways. To learn more about maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile, visit the following websites.

• Take a look at this report from the BBC, which shows that brushing too hard can damage teeth.
• Are you trying to decide whether you should choose a manual or electric toothbrush? Check out this article on EverydayHealth.com to learn more about which kind may suit your needs best.
• Did you know that only one in ten people brush properly? Read more about the importance of good brushing technique when it comes to your oral health from The Huffington Post.
• Take a look at this illustrated guide to brushing your teeth properly, provided by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association.
• Dry mouth can put your oral health at risk, and it is often brought on by medication or certain medical conditions. Learn more on the Mayo Clinic website and always be sure to discuss your current medical information with your dentist. 

The Redondo Beach Dental Group offers a variety of dental care options to address all our patients’ needs. Call (310) 542-6988 to ask about your treatment options, including tooth whitening, Invisalign, dental implants, and more. Browse our website to meet our dental team before your first visit!

Tips for Alleviating the Symptoms of Sensitive Teeth

Tooth sensitivity affects millions of Americans, making teeth twinge when exposed to heat, cold, or sometimes pressure. There are few easy steps you can follow at home to help alleviate these symptoms for comfort while speaking and eating. Your Redondo Beach dentist can also recommend products or procedures if tooth sensitivity is particularly disruptive to your life, so always ask if you have concerns.

About Tooth Sensitivity

The parts of your teeth that are visible in your mouth are covered by a thin, hard layer of tooth enamel. However, periodontal disease or aggressive brushing can cause gum recession. When this occurs, the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing the next layer, called dentin. Dentine is extremely porous and allows outside factors such as heat and cold to reach the tooth’s nerve, causing sensitivity.

Alleviating Tooth Sensitivity

Talk to your dentist about using a specially-formulated toothpaste when you brush. There are a number of sensitive toothpaste options on the market, but remember that in order for it to be effective, you must continually brush with this toothpaste. Even if sensitivity fades, switching back to regular toothpaste can cause it to recur.

Fluoride helps promote stronger teeth, so rinsing with a fluoride rinse rather than a regular mouthwash can help with sensitivity issues. If you have received treatment for advanced gum disease, your teeth may also feel sensitive and can benefit from a fluoride gel treatment during your next dental visit.

Dentists recommend brushing with only a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brushes with harder bristles can further damage gums and tooth enamel, exacerbating tooth sensitivity. Never put excessive pressure on your teeth and gums when you brush, but rather use gentle pressure and controlled motions.

With the right care and habits, tooth sensitivity can be alleviated and you can eat and smile comfortably. The team at Redondo Beach Dental Group is dedicated to excellent dental care both in and out of our office. Call (310) 542-6988 or contact us online to get the answers to your dental questions!

The Importance of Taking Care of Your Teeth During Pregnancy

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums during pregnancy affects not only your health, but also the health of your baby. Start by eating a well-balanced diet filled with protein, vegetables, and the right vitamins. Your baby’s teeth will begin to develop while he is still in the womb, so it’s essential that you take in the right nutrients.

Beware of swollen, bleeding, or tender gums during your pregnancy, a condition called pregnancy gingivitis. It’s important to continue brushing and flossing regularly, as well as visiting your dentist, to keep your teeth and gums in top condition. Check out this video to learn more.

Get an early start on your baby’s health by visiting the Redondo Beach Dental Group for a checkup and cleaning during your pregnancy. Our dentists are dedicated to encouraging good dental health for your entire family, starting before birth! Call (310) 542-6988 or visit our website to learn more.