Skilled Dentist Saint Paul, MN

Regular dental visits play an essential role in maintaining good oral health. Many people believe that skipping dental visits saves money, but untreated dental issues often lead to more expensive and time-consuming treatments down the line. By visiting the dentist twice a year, you receive preventive care that helps catch potential problems early, which can prevent more serious issues from developing. Routine exams and cleanings also help ensure that your teeth remain healthy and that you are caring for them properly at home.

While brushing cleans the surface of your teeth, it does not reach the spaces between them or the area below the gumline. Flossing is crucial for removing plaque and bacteria from these areas, helping prevent cavities and gum disease. Regular flossing also supports overall oral hygiene by reducing the risk of bad breath and keeping your gums healthy.

You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, ideally in the morning and before bed. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste approved by the ADA®. Flossing should be done once a day to remove debris and plaque from between your teeth. Using a mouthrinse can further enhance your oral hygiene routine. If you have any questions about your brushing and flossing technique, please reach out to our team.

Dental X-rays are extremely safe, especially with modern advancements such as digital X-rays that reduce radiation exposure. In fact, you are exposed to less radiation during a dental X-ray than from daily sun exposure. All X-ray equipment is regularly tested for safety and accuracy, as required by federal law, ensuring that dental X-rays remain a safe and essential tool for diagnosing oral health issues.

We understand that many people experience dental anxiety and fear, and we are here to help. Please let our team know if you are nervous about your appointment. We offer a range of strategies to help you feel more comfortable, including sedation options, techniques to reduce anxiety and more. Your comfort is our priority, and we will work with you to create a positive dental experience.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have their first dental visit by the time their first tooth appears, or no later than their first birthday. Early dental visits help children become familiar with the dental office and allow us to monitor the development of their teeth and gums. These visits also give parents the opportunity to learn how to properly care for their child’s teeth.

Babies usually start teething between 6 to 10 months of age, although tooth development begins much earlier, typically around the second trimester of pregnancy. Once your child has two teeth that touch, it is important to start flossing them. For any questions about your baby’s teething and dental care, feel free to contact us.

Primary teeth are essential for your child’s oral health and development. They help your child speak clearly, chew food properly and guide the permanent teeth into place. Maintaining good oral hygiene for primary teeth prevents issues like cavities and misalignment. Taking care of these teeth will support your child’s overall health and wellbeing.

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your smile while maintaining your oral health. Procedures such as teeth whitening, dental veneers and tooth-colored fillings can enhance the beauty of your smile. Cosmetic treatments can address issues like discoloration, chips or gaps in your teeth, giving you a more confident, attractive smile.

If you have lost a tooth, there are several ways to restore your smile. Options include dental implants, bridges and dentures. Our dentist will evaluate your oral health and discuss your goals to recommend the best treatment for your needs. Replacing a missing tooth not only restores your appearance but also prevents other oral health issues, such as shifting teeth or bone loss.

A root canal is a procedure used to treat a tooth that has become infected or severely decayed. During the procedure, our dentist will remove the infected tissue from inside the tooth, clean the area and seal it to prevent further infection. Root canals have a reputation for being painful, but modern dentistry ensures that the process is as comfortable as possible, allowing you to save your natural tooth.

Orthodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Whether it is braces, clear aligners or other treatments, orthodontics can improve your bite, appearance and oral health. Orthodontists receive additional training after dental school to specialize in diagnosing and treating alignment issues.

The American Association of Orthodontists® recommends that children have their first orthodontic screening by age 7. At this age, a dentist or orthodontist can assess your child’s bite and determine if any early intervention is necessary to guide proper dental and facial development.

You are never too old for orthodontic treatment! Many adults are choosing to straighten their teeth later in life. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, you can undergo orthodontic treatment to improve your smile and oral function.

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth. It begins as gingivitis, which causes inflammation of the gums, and can progress to periodontitis if left untreated, leading to bone loss and tooth loss. Regular dental visits are important for preventing and managing periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria in plaque that accumulates on the teeth and gums. Without proper oral hygiene, plaque hardens into tartar, which can irritate the gums and lead to infection. If not treated, periodontal disease can progress, affecting the underlying bone and tissues.

Common symptoms of periodontal disease include red, swollen or bleeding gums, bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth and changes in your bite. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see our dentist and team for an evaluation and treatment.

Bad breath, or halitosis, can result from poor oral hygiene, cavities, gum disease or even certain foods. Practicing good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing and using mouthrinse, can help. If bad breath persists, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue, and we recommend visiting our dentist for further evaluation.

Our experienced dentist and team provide comprehensive dental care in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and the surrounding areas, including Como, Falcon Heights, Lauderdale, Merriam Park, Minneapolis, Roseville, Seward, Standish and St. Anthony, Minnesota. We invite you to call us today to schedule your consultation and learn more!