Why Are Some People More Prone to Cavities?

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Do you ever get the feeling that bad luck follows you around? Maybe you’re the kind of person who works super duper hard to get their teeth clean after every single meal and snack, only to visit the dentist in North Little Rock, AR and discover that, yup, there’s another cavity! How can this be, when you’re the first in line at the sink in the morning, and the last person standing at the mirror flossing? What’s going on? The truth is, other factors besides oral hygiene can make certain people more vulnerable to cavities.

Genetics and Tooth Structure

The natural shape and structure of teeth can affect cavity risk. Some people have deeper grooves and pits on their molars, making it easier for food and bacteria to get trapped. Enamel thickness also varies from person to person—thinner enamel provides less protection against decay.

It’s Drier Than a Desert

Saliva production is another factor. Saliva helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids, so people with dry mouth are at higher risk for cavities.

Diet and Bacteria

If you’re eating a lot of sugary or acidic foods, this can weaken enamel over time. It’s like the Grand Canyon, which was carved out by what started as trickles of water over thousands of years. Also, some people just naturally have higher levels of cavity-causing bacteria in their mouths, increasing their risk even if they maintain good brushing habits. Snacking throughout the day, especially on sticky or starchy foods, can prolong acid exposure and speed up tooth decay.

While some people are naturally more prone to cavities, preventive care really does make a difference. Regular dental checkups in North Little Rock, AR, fluoride treatments, and a balanced diet can help strengthen teeth and reduce cavity risk.

 3 Ways to Keep Your Natural Teeth For a Lifetime

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The ultimate goal of yourdentist in North Little Rock, AR at Mounts Dental Care is always to save your natural teeth. That’s why so much care and attention is given to making sure our patients know how to care for teeth and gums at home, making sure appointments are made and kept and so much more. Lots of people keep their natural teeth for a lifetime, and there’s no reason you can’t be one of them. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Don’t Develop Bad Habits

Bad habits that often lead to a loss of natural teeth include:

  • smoking
  • using tobacco products of any kind
  • excessive drinking
  • drug use, unless prescribed
  • using teeth as tools for opening things, etc.

If you can avoid these things in life, your teeth will thank you for it by sticking around for a lifetime.

2. Being Diligent About Oral Hygiene

If you spend your lifetime following guidelines about oral hygiene, you’ll be less inclined to develop issues that can lead to loss of natural teeth. This means brushing and flossing after each meal and snack, as well as first thing in the morning and last thing before bed.

3. See the Dentist at Least Twice a Year

Make sure you getdental exams in North Little Rock, AR at least every six months at a minimum. This holds true for those who have no outstanding dental issues that require more focused—and more frequent—dental care. Of course, if you do adhere to this guideline, the chances increase that you won’t develop any special circumstances at all!

Let’s get started on the third tip right away. Contact Mounts Dental Care today to book an appointment and get you on track for a lifetime enjoying your natural teeth!

My Teeth Are Sensitive. What’s the Cause?

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Sensitive teeth cause pain and discomfort. Tooth sensitivity can also be a sign of a dental problem. If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, it’s important to know the potential cause. Your dentist in North Little Rock, AR, can help find the cause of your sensitive teeth. Below, we’ve listed some of the common causes of tooth sensitivity.

Causes of Sensitive Teeth

There are many things that can cause sensitive teeth including:

  • Brushing too hard. Brushing too hard can rub the tooth enamel off your teeth, leaving your teeth sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. Use light pressure on your teeth when brushing, and use a soft-bristle toothbrush.
  • Teeth grinding. Grinding your teeth at night can wear down your tooth enamel and leave the enamel cracked.
  • Cracked tooth. A cracked tooth can lead to sensitivity in one tooth.
  • Dental infection or cavity. If your tooth has a dental infection or a cavity, you may feel tooth sensitivity or a toothache.

What to Do If Your Teeth Are Sensitive

If you have sensitive teeth, there are several things you can do to alleviate your pain.

  • Avoid brushing too hard: Pay attention to how hard you push on your teeth when you’re brushing.
  • Use soft-bristle toothbrushes: If you’re using a medium or hard-bristle toothbrush, switch to soft bristles.
  • Brush with tooth sensitivity toothpaste: Use a toothpaste that reduces tooth sensitivity.
  • See the dentist: If one or more teeth have become suddenly sensitive, this could be a sign of infection or a cavity. See the dentist to get help.

See the Dentist to Take Care of Your Teeth

One way to avoid sensitive teeth is to come to the dentist for regular dental checkups in North Little Rock, AR. Visit your dentist at Mounts Dental Care to get help. Call today to make an appointment.

4 Ways To Help Your Child Care for Their Teeth Around the Holidays

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Caring for teeth during the holidays can be tough, and it can be especially tough for children. Kids eat a lot of candy, and they often have poor oral hygiene habits as well. Working with your dentist in North Little Rock, AR can help. At Mounts Dental Care, we give parents and kids advice on how to help them take care of their teeth. Below, we’ve provided tips to help your child maintain healthy teeth and gums this holiday season.

1. Make the Desserts Sugarless When You Can

If you’re in charge of making desserts for your holiday events, provide your guests with sugarless desserts whenever possible. Use safe sugar substitutes, or look for desserts that are low in sugar. Keep in mind there are many sugar-free candies that you can keep on hand to brighten your holiday gatherings!

2. Keep Sugarless Snacks On Hand for Everyday Use

Stock your fridge and pantry with sugarless snacks for your child to eat after school. Snacks like boiled eggs and peanut butter on crackers are relatively healthy and low in sugar.

3. Monitor Their Toothbrushing Habits

It’s easy for your child to forget to brush their teeth during the excitement of the holidays. Monitor your child’s toothbrushing habits to ensure that they’re brushing their teeth at night and in the morning.

4. Make a Dental Appointment Around the Holidays

Make your child a dental appointment in North Little Rock, AR, around the holidays, to ensure that your child’s teeth are clean and healthy. The professionals at Mounts Dental Care are here to help. Call today to make an appointment.

4 Things to Know About Sedation Dentistry

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Not everyone feels comfortable going to the dentist. Some people have anxiety that can prevent them from making their normal dental appointments. Going to the dentist shouldn’t be an unpleasant experience – and that’s why we offer sedation dentistry for our patients. As your dentist in North Little Rock, AR, we’re committed to making your experience at the dentist a positive experience overall.

1. What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is the use of sedation during a dental procedure to help the patient feel more comfortable. Sedation dentistry can involve nitrous oxide, a colorless gas that instills patients with a feeling of euphoria during the dental appointment, or other forms of sedation.

2. Does Sedation Dentistry Make You Fall Asleep?

Some types of sedation dentistry – like nitrous oxide – do not make patients fall asleep. Other types of sedation dentistry, like IV sedation, will cause the patient to fall asleep. Your dental provider will help you decide which type of sedation dentistry is best for your upcoming dental procedure.

3. Should I Get Sedation Dentistry For Every Dental Visit?

You may not want sedation for every dental appointment. Some appointments are quick and easy enough that sedation doesn’t seem necessary. Talk to your dental provider to find out if you should get sedation with each appointment.

4. What Should I Do If I Think I Need Sedation Dentistry?

If you think you’re a good candidate for sedation dentistry in North Little Rock, AR, call your dentist at Mounts Dental Care.Our dental professionals are fully trained in providing sedation dentistry to patients. Call today to make an appointment.

4 Ways to Take Care of Your Teeth This Summer

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Summer is a time when many people struggle to take care of their teeth. From ice cream at the park to sweet drinks at the family barbecue, there are just too many opportunities to do damage to your teeth.

Your dentist in North Little Rock, AR can help. At Mounts Dental Care, we provide dental exams and treatment for a range of dental conditions. We can help you take care of your teeth this summer.

1. Floss After Eating Corn

Corn on the cob can easily become caught between your teeth. It’s important to get the food out of your teeth when it gets trapped there. Flossing after eating corn on the cob can help you take care of your teeth.

2. Limit Your Intake of Sugar

Summer is a time when sugary foods and beverages are popular. Ice cream, soda, milkshakes and more – all of these sugary foods are fun to eat when it’s hot outside.

Sugary foods are bad for your teeth and oral health. Limiting your intake of sugar can help you take care of your teeth. If possible, drink sugarless drinks, and try to limit your snacks to one per day.

3. Avoid Chewing Ice

Chewing ice can break your tooth enamel, causing cracks and chips. If it’s your habit to chew ice, don’t!

4. See Your Dentist for a Dental Exam

See your dentist every six months for a dental exam in North Little Rock, AR. If you’re due for a dental exam this summer, make the appointment now. Call Mounts Dental Care to get your appointment on the calendar.

3 Ways to Care for Your Teeth As You Get Older

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Teeth change as the body ages. Taking good care of your teeth can help keep your teeth healthy. Your dentist in North Little Rock, AR can help.

Seniors have unique dental needs that we can address during their dental appointments. Below are some suggestions we give to senior patients to help them maintain healthy teeth and gums.

1. Use Soft Bristle Toothbrushes, Brush Gently

Brushing too hard with a hard-bristle toothbrush can wear away your tooth enamel, leading to sensitive tooth enamel. Brushing too hard can also wear away your gums, causing gum recession.

Tooth sensitivity and gum recession are both problems that seniors commonly struggle with, so it’s important to reduce your risk of these problems by brushing your teeth gently. If you’re not sure how to brush your teeth gently or whether your toothbrush is adequate, talk to your dentist.

2. Maintain a Good Oral Hygiene Routine

Hopefully, you have a good oral hygiene routine of brushing your teeth twice per day and flossing once per day. If you don’t do that right now, this is a good time to start. See your dentist twice annually for dental exams in North Little Rock, AR – or more often if your dentist recommends. Your dentist may ask to see you more frequently as you get older.

3. Stay Hydrated

Certain medications and medical conditions can put you at risk for dry mouth, increasing your risk of periodontitis. Staying hydrated can help you avoid these problems. Drink plenty of water to help maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Is it time for your next dental exam? Contact Mounts Dental Care to make your next dental appointment.

5 Ways to Maximize Your Visits With the Dentist

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Visiting the dentist is good for you, especially when you know how to make the most out of your appointment. When you visit the dentist in North Little Rock, AR, it’s important to know how to ensure that your dental appointment is as productive as possible. Below are five things you can do to maximize your next dental appointment.

1. Know What Questions to Ask

Make a list of all your questions about oral health and hygiene. Maybe you’d like to know if you’re a good candidate for professional teeth whitening or why your teeth are so sensitive. Write these questions down to ask your dentist during your consultation.

2. Make Appointments Twice Annually

Experts recommend that dental patients visit the dentist twice per year. Making your dental appointments twice annually helps the dentist stay on top of your plaque and tartar removal and allows your dentist to identify oral health and hygiene problems in their early stages.

3. Make a Checklist of Concerns

Are you concerned about pain in your teeth or maybe a wisdom tooth that’s causing you grief? Make a checklist of issues to bring up with your dentist before the end of your dental appointment.

4. Get Tutorials from the Dentist

When did the dentist last show you how to brush your teeth or floss properly? It’s good to get a refresher from time to time. Get new tutorials from the dentist to improve your oral health and hygiene routine.

5. Tell Them What Type of Toothbrush and Toothpaste You Use

Dentists often have recommendations for the best type of toothbrush and toothpaste for their patients. Tell your dentist about your products to see if your dentist recommends anything different.

When was the last time you came in for a dental examination and cleaning in North Little Rock, AR? Call Mounts Dental Care today to make your next appointment.

Do I Need Treatment for Periodontal Disease?

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Periodontal disease can be a very serious problem that can cause bad breath, loose permanent teeth, bone loss, and even the loss of permanent teeth. If you have periodontal disease, it is important to work with your dentist in North Little Rock, AR, to get treatment.

If you suspect that you have periodontal disease because you’re noticing symptoms, contact your dental provider.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that damages the tissues, including the bone and gums. It is generally caused by poor oral hygiene habits over a long period, although some people are at higher risk for it because they have certain medical conditions or because they use tobacco products.

What Are the Symptoms of Periodontal Disease?

There are many symptoms of periodontal disease:

  • Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing
  • Puffy, red, bleeding gums
  • Bad breath that persists even after brushing teeth
  • Loose permanent teeth
  • Gums are bright red or even purple
  • Gums bleed when brushing teeth
  • Receding gums

You may have periodontal disease if you’re experiencing one or more of these problems. If you have periodontal disease, you need treatment as soon as possible.

What Happens If I Delay Treatment?

Periodontal disease is a serious condition that can cause the loss of jaw bone density and, ultimately, the loss of your permanent teeth. Seeing the dentist as soon as possible can help you save your teeth. During treatment, your dentist can “deep clean” your teeth to get rid of the bacteria and inflammation in your mouth.

At Mounts Dental Care, we help our patients maintain healthy teeth and gums through safe, effective teeth cleaning in North Little Rock, AR. We’re here to help you maintain healthy teeth. Call today to make an appointment.

What Happens During Dental Cleanings?

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Most dentists recommend that their patients visit for dental cleanings every six months. Knowing what to expect during your next dental cleaning can make your bi-annual visit to the dentist in North Little Rock, AR, less stressful.

At Mounts Dental Practice, our dentists use professionalism and all the most modern techniques to make your visit to the dentist a positive experience. Here’s what you need to know about what happens during dental cleanings.

Removal of Plaque and Tartar 

Plaque and tartar can build up on teeth over time. Tartar buildup can contribute to gum recession and tooth decay, so your dental professional at Mounts Dental Care will use tools like scalers to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth during your dental cleaning.

X-Rays 

Your dentist uses X-rays to see what’s happening inside your teeth and gums. You don’t need to get X-rays every time you visit the dentist, so your dental professional will tell you when it’s time to get X-rays at your visits.

Fluoride Treatment and Polish 

Fluoride helps strengthen your tooth enamel, so your dentist may give you a fluoride treatment when you come into the office for a cleaning. The dentist may also polish your tooth enamel to make it slippery so that food will not stick to it as easily.

Examination

At the end of the appointment, the dentist will examine your teeth and look for any oral hygiene problems. If you have any oral hygiene issues, your dentist at Mounts Dental Care will provide you with a diagnosis and treatment plan.

When was the last time you had a dental appointment? If it’s been over 6 months, it’s time to see your dentist. Call Mounts Dental Care to schedule a dental cleaning in North Little Rock, AR.