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Avoid Teeth Stains: 8 Habits to Kick to the Curb, Advises Dentist Gulfport | Dentist 39503

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Maintaining a bright, dazzling smile goes beyond just teeth whitening treatments—it requires steering clear of habits that can lead to stubborn stains. At Pure Smiles Dental of Gulfport, we emphasize proactive dental care to keep your smile radiant. Here are eight habits to be mindful of to prevent teeth discoloration:

  1. Beware of Teeth-Staining Beverages: Indulging in beverages like coffee and red wine can contribute to teeth stains due to their chromogens, which adhere to enamel. Opt for rinsing your mouth with water after consumption to minimize staining. Similarly, black tea and other tannin-rich drinks can leave behind unsightly marks on your teeth.
  2. Watch Your Diet: Foods that stain your fingers often stain your teeth too. Brightly colored berries, beetroot, sticky candies, and richly hued sauces are culprits. Consider lighter, creamier sauces to minimize staining potential.
  3. Limit Acidic Beverages: Acidic beverages like white wine, sports drinks, and carbonated sodas can weaken enamel, making teeth more susceptible to stains. Moderation or avoidance of these drinks is key to preventing discoloration.
  4. Don’t Linger with Food and Drink: Minimize contact time between staining substances and your teeth by avoiding prolonged exposure. Swallow promptly and consider using a straw to minimize contact with your front teeth.
  5. Stay Hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day not only keeps you hydrated but also helps rinse away staining substances. Opt for fluoridated tap water for added dental protection.
  6. Kick the Tobacco Habit: Tobacco, whether smoked or chewed, is a significant cause of tooth stains and poses various oral health risks. Quitting tobacco can lead to improved oral health and a brighter smile.
  7. Prioritize Oral Hygiene: Plaque buildup can retain stains, emphasizing the importance of regular brushing and flossing. Maintain a routine of brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing to keep your smile bright.
  8. Don’t Skip Dental Checkups: Regular dental checkups are essential for catching early signs of dental issues and receiving guidance on maintaining oral health. Our team at Pure Smiles Dental of Gulfport is here to support you on your journey to a healthy, radiant smile.

If you’re considering teeth whitening or any other cosmetic dental procedure, our dental experts can help you determine the best option for your needs. Schedule an appointment with us today to start your journey to a brighter, healthier smile!

Pure Smiles Dental of Gulfport
Phone: (228) 832-5300
cash, credit card
15382-A St. Charles St.
Gulfport, MS 39503

Discover the Perfect Teeth Whitening Solutions with Dentist Gulfport! | Dentist Near Me

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Are you on the hunt for the ideal teeth whitening solution? With an abundance of over-the-counter options flooding the market, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect fit for your pearly whites. At Pure Smiles Dental of Gulfport, we’re here to guide you through the array of choices, ensuring you achieve a radiant smile while safeguarding your oral health.

Understanding Teeth Stains: What Causes Discoloration?

Various factors contribute to teeth stains and discoloration, ranging from poor oral hygiene to indulgence in coffee, wine, berries, or smoking. Over time, these habits can lead to the formation of a stubborn pellicle film over your enamel. Without consistent brushing and professional cleaning, these stains can penetrate the enamel, leaving behind undesirable discoloration.

Exploring At-Home Whitening Options:

The market boasts a plethora of at-home teeth whitening products, from peroxide-based gels to whitening strips and kits. Additionally, there are whitening toothpastes designed to eliminate surface stains with their abrasive properties. While some of these products offer promising results, many fall short, causing tooth sensitivity or even damage to your enamel and gums due to harsh chemicals.

Ensuring Safe and Effective Whitening:

For a whitening experience that guarantees safety and efficacy, consider professional, in-office whitening, also known as chairside whitening. At Pure Smiles Dental of Gulfport, our skilled dental professionals utilize top-tier, professional-grade whitening gels to brighten your smile. With a protective shield safeguarding your gums, a hydrogen or carbamide peroxide gel is meticulously applied to your teeth, delivering dazzling results in just one office visit.

Alternatively, if you prefer whitening in the comfort of your home, we offer custom whitening trays and professional-grade whitening systems. While at-home whitening may take a bit longer to achieve desired results compared to chairside whitening, it’s a safer and more effective option than over-the-counter alternatives.

Ready to Transform Your Smile?

At Pure Smiles Dental of Gulfport, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional dental services to ensure our patients maintain healthy teeth and radiant smiles. If you’re interested in learning more about our cosmetic dentistry services, including professional teeth whitening, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Schedule your appointment today and embark on your journey to a brighter, more confident smile!

Pure Smiles Dental of Gulfport
Phone: (228) 832-5300
cash, credit card
15382-A St. Charles St.
Gulfport, MS 39503

Dentist in Gulfport MS | 4 Ways to Achieve Optimal Oral Health

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Dentist in Gulfport MS

Keeping up optimal oral health takes more than brushing and flossing. Maintaining oral hygiene demands a bit of work, but it is worth it in the long run. Here are four ways you can improve your dental health right now.

  1. Replace your toothbrush more often. When was the last time you replaced your toothbrush? A month ago? Six months? Most people don’t swap out a new brush often enough, which can lead to reduced brush effectiveness. Change your brush at least every three months. Be sure to switch after having an infection like the cold or flu to prevent reinfection.
  2. Lay off the fizzy drinks. The acids present in soda wear away enamel, weakening your teeth and leaving them vulnerable to decay. In fact, people who drink three or more glasses of soda per day experience about 62% more tooth decay than those who choose another beverage like water.
  3. Opt for chocolate. Everyone loves a sweet treat now and then, but did you know that certain candies are better for your teeth than others? The American Dental Association reports dark chocolate is the healthiest option, as it is soft and washes off your teeth easier than other candies. Hard, sticky, and sour goodies should be avoided, because they can stick to your teeth and even cause chips or cracks if you bite down too hard.
  4. Visit your dentist. Trips to our Gulfport dental office should occur at least twice a year—not just when you have a toothache. Our dentist in Gulfport MS offers preventative care, vital education, and important cleanings, which are all part of maintaining excellent oral health.

Our Gulfport dentist is pleased to offer a variety of solutions to keep your smile healthy. We are also able to customize a health plan tailored to your specific needs. Book your appointment today.

Pure Smiles Dental of Gulfport
Phone: (228) 832-5300
15382-A St. Charles St.
Gulfport, MS 39503

Gulfport MS Dentist | An Important Reminder About Your Next Dental Appointment

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At times, life can seem to move quickly. Between work, school, sports, and social events, it can seem there is little time left for you and your health. It’s imperative for a healthy mouth and body to always have your next dental appointment scheduled and to prioritize this care. Our team will work with you to find the most convenient day and time for you. If you need to reschedule, we will do our best to accommodate you. Advanced notice of a change is greatly appreciated, whenever possible. Missed appointments without notice are harmful to our practice, as we’ve reserved your appointment time exclusively for you. 

Missed dental appointments can lead to worsened oral and overall health. Whether receiving preventive or restorative care, if left without professional treatment, plaque and decay will progress and the state of your oral health will likely decline. Some of our patients are predisposed to more frequent oral health issues. Many times, these guests prefer more frequent office visits. Please know this is an option for you as well. Investing in one extra cleaning each year can often prevent more costly concerns.

We know it can be tempting to skip your dental appointment. Perhaps you’d rather be relaxing at home or you’ve had a last-minute obligation arise. Please make every effort to prioritize your healthy smile, as it significantly contributes to your overall health. 

Please know we’re here for you. If you have any questions about our care or practice philosophy, don’t hesitate to contact us. 

Gulfport MS Dentist | Dry Mouth – Not Just a Nuisance

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Normal flow of saliva provides lubrication for swallowing and begins the process of digestion while you chew. Saliva also protects your teeth by neutralizing and washing away acids, sugars, and other particles left behind after eating. From time to time, we all experience some amount of dry mouth. Hot weather, exercise, and dehydration can all cause a temporary decrease in saliva production. However, if you have chronic dry mouth, or xerostomia, you could be at risk of serious oral health complications.

Some of the oral health issues commonly associated with dry mouth include:

  • Much higher rates of tooth decay
  • Oral yeast infection
  • Bad breath (halitosis)
  • Periodontal (gum) disease
  • Constant sore throat
  • Soft tissue infections
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Denture discomfort

The most common cause of chronic dry mouth is medication. More than 400 over-the-counter and prescription medications include dry mouth as a frequent side effect. Dry mouth is also associated with stress, autoimmune and other systemic diseases, hormonal changes, radiation or chemotherapy treatment for cancers, and salivary gland disease.

You may find relief from dry mouth through a variety of methods. Some easy options to help alleviate your dry mouth include:

  • Increased water intake
  • Sugar-free candies or gum
  • Artificial saliva, as recommended by doctor or dentist
  • Alcohol-free mouthwash
  • Limiting alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated soft drinks
  • Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home
  • Change in medication, only as directed by doctor

Brush and floss regularly to help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other complications.

If you are experiencing dry mouth, make an appointment and be sure to tell our team. We will review your medications and perform a thorough dental exam to check for any potential underlying oral health issues.

For more information about dry mouth, contact our office.

Gulfport MS Cosmetic Dentist | Filling in the Gaps: Your Options for Missing Teeth

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Are you embarrassed to show your smile because of missing teeth? For many people, missing teeth can create a feeling of diminished self-confidence. Modern dentistry can not only replace the gaps in your smile, our team can also create long-term replacements that look and feel just like your natural teeth. You have options. Here are a few of the most common tooth replacement solutions.

Dentures

Dentures are a solution for those who have lost many or all their teeth. They create a realistic, aesthetically pleasing smile. They are ideal for patients that are missing multiple teeth on either the top or bottom. Our team will start by taking an impression of your mouth. We will then send the impression to a lab for a customized set of dentures to be created. Once your dentures are ready, we will ensure a proper fit and make any necessary adjustments. Dentures should be cleaned regularly with a non-abrasive cleanser. Our team will provide you with all the information you need to take care of your dentures.

Bridges

You may have heard of dental bridges referred to as partial dentures. Dental bridges are a replacement solution for one or more missing teeth. They help prevent your existing teeth from shifting into the empty gaps of your missing teeth. Bridges utilize your surrounding teeth as an anchor for your replacements. Our team can match the bridge to look like your natural teeth; no one will even notice the difference.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a long-lasting tooth replacement option. Unlike dentures, which may require replacement, dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. Our team will ensure your gum tissue is healthy enough with adequate bone support to anchor the implant. For some patients, additional preparations may be necessary such as a bone graft to guarantee your implant has a strong, stable foundation.

The gaps in your smile can be filled. Our team can help you decide on a tooth replacement solution based on your individual needs. It is important to fill the gaps of missing teeth to prevent deterioration to your gums and the shifting of teeth into these empty spaces. Additionally, tooth replacement solutions such as dentures, bridges, or implants can help improve your speech and comfort.

If you are missing teeth, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team.

Gulfport MS Cosmetic Dentist | 4 Tips for Healthy, White Teeth

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Your smile is one of the first things that people notice about you. One way to make a lasting impression is to have a healthy-looking smile. Over the years, teeth whitening has become immensely popular. People turn to in-office whitening, over-the-counter whitening, and home-made whitening techniques. Did you know that there are ways to keep your smile white with just small changes to your daily routine? Read the tips below to keep your smile looking pearly white.

  1. Brush and Floss

To keep your mouth clean, healthy, and stain-free, brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day. Brush your teeth after drinking coffee, tea, soda, or red wine to help fight discoloration.

  • Diet

Some of the food and drinks you are consuming may cause your teeth to look dull or stained. Wine, coffee, tea, soft drinks, and berries all contain substances that stain teeth. Chromogens are molecules found in all of these items that stick to the enamel of your teeth causing a dull look.

  • Quit Smoking

Smoking is not only bad for your heart and lungs, it is also bad for your mouth and teeth. Smoking causes tooth discoloration, increased plaque buildup, gum disease and more.

  • Visit Your Dentist

Dental cleanings and exams are an important part in keeping your teeth healthy and bright. You may need frequently follow up visits based on your oral health care. Don’t forget to schedule an appointment twice a year.

Even if you do use in-office whitening or over-the-counter products, your teeth need extra care to keep up with the initial results. By flossing, lifestyle changes, and regular dental visits your teeth will be looking bright.

Contact our office to schedule your dental cleaning today.

Gulfport MS Dentist | 3 Simple Ways to Reduce Tooth Decay

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A happy smile is a healthy smile! There are a number of steps you can take to keep your smile healthy by reducing your risk of developing tooth decay. Here are a few suggestions from our team.

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Eat a Tooth Friendly Diet

Reduce the amount of sugars and carbohydrates in your diet. Decay-causing bacteria in the mouth feed on these substances.

We suggest you reduce grains, beans, seeds, and nuts in your diet when possible. These foods can lead to demineralization of your teeth and bones due to their acidic content. Consider adding foods high in minerals and vitamins to your diet such as apples, leafy greens, celery, or carrots.

Brush, Floss, Rinse, Repeat

Routine brushing at least twice a day followed by flossing and a mouth rinse is the optimal at home dental care routine. Brush for at least two minutes in the morning and at night. Use a soft bristle toothbrush that is small enough to reach every tooth.

Dental Sealants

Children often get dental sealants to protect the hard-to-reach teeth in the back of their mouths. However, dental sealants can benefit adults and those who have a higher risk of decay. Dental sealants are a layer of plastic-like material that coats the top surface of the tooth. Sealants protect the crevices in the tooth where bacteria reside and minimizes exposure of the tooth to harmful acids and sugars that wear down enamel.

When left untreated, tooth decay can cause discomfort and spread to other healthy teeth. You can combat tooth decay by reducing sugars and acids in your diet and brushing and flossing regularly. For some patients, dental sealants might be a solution.

Don’t forget to schedule your next visit to our office. Our team can provide a professional cleaning and check for signs of tooth decay.

Gulfport MS Cosmetic Dentist | Oral Health and Cancer

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There are over 12 million new cases of cancer diagnosed each year. There are a large variety of different kinds of cancer, some of which are more preventable than others. It might seem obvious that brushing and flossing each day as well as avoiding tobacco can help protect you from oral cancer. However, there are types of oral cancer and other cancers that can be prevented through optimal oral care as well.

Dental Care and Oral Cancer

While it’s long been known that tobacco and heavy alcohol use are the main causes of oral, head, and neck cancer, poor oral health has recently been added to the list. A 2007 study published in American Journal of Epidemiology found that poor mouth health and missing teeth were strongly linked to the development of oral cancer. Likewise, patients with healthy smiles were found to be far less likely to develop oral cancer. If you have been diagnosed with oral cancer, know that common oral health problems such as gum disease and tooth decay could be making the condition worse. Visiting our dental office regularly for professional cleanings, examinations, and oral cancer screenings to help catch signs of oral cancer early and make treatment easier and more effective.

Oral Health and Other Cancers

Poor oral health has been shown to be tied to other types of cancers outside of the mouth. For example, a recent study conducted by NYU Langone Health’s Perlmutter Cancer Center found that certain types of bacteria in patients with gum disease was tied to a higher risk of developing esophageal cancer. While esophageal cancer only accounts for 1% of new cancer cases diagnosed annually, over 90% of patients will die of the disease. Untreated gum disease opens up the tissues around the teeth to bacterial infection, allowing these harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream and infect other parts of the patient’s body. Maintaining optimal oral health can help protect you from this threat.

Your oral health effects much more than just your mouth. If you’re not taking care of your teeth, tongue, and gums, you could significantly increase your risk of developing cancer without even realizing it. If you’d like to learn more about the connection between oral health and cancer, contact our dental team to schedule an examination and cleaning today!

Gulfport MS Cosmetic Dentist | Blood Thinners and Oral Surgery

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Blood thinning medications are helpful in regulating your body to prevent heart attacks, strokes, and other serious issues. However, if you are scheduled for oral surgery, it is vital that our oral surgeon is aware of all medications you are using.

How Blood Thinners Work

There are two types of blood thinners. The first type works to prevent blood clotting. Medications ranging from aspirin to Plavix fit into this category. The other type of blood thinners work to prevent blood from coagulating; Coumadin or warfarin accomplish this.

What Our Oral Surgeon Should Know

When you have your oral surgery consultation appointment, be sure to share with us any medications you are taking. We need to have your complete medical history to ensure your safety and proper treatment. Our dentist might also ask you the purpose of each medication you are taking to better understand any side-effects or other medical issues that could affect your oral surgery.

Steps to Take Before Surgery

Never stop any medication without consulting your doctor. Depending on your medical history, your doctor might suggest specific blood tests before having oral surgery. Communication is key, both between you and your primary physician, and between you and our office. If your treatment requires additional medication to be taken, ask about potential drug interactions.

Steps to Take to Minimize Oral Bleeding

Bleeding resulting from oral surgery can occur, but each patient will have different results. The most effective way to minimize oral bleeding is to firmly apply pressure to the area for up to 30 minutes. Gauze is recommended for applying gentle pressure to stop bleeding. Depending on the oral surgery procedure, we may ask you to refrain from drinking hot liquids and rinsing your mouth for the first day. We suggest avoiding rough or sharp foods that might cut your mouth.

Prior to having any oral surgery, it is important that our experienced surgical team has a thorough knowledge of your medical history. This enables us to find the best possible solutions for your needs, while ensuring your safety.

If you have any questions about medications and oral surgery, contact our office.