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Your Child’s Routine Dental Appointment | Dentist in 39503

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The American Dental Association recommends that all patients schedule routine six-month check-up exams. This is particularly important for growing children. Their mouth is constantly changing, and they are often more prone to tooth decay. It is vital to establish the correct oral health habits when they are young so that it becomes a lifetime routine. 

At your child’s visit, we will screen their mouth for tooth decay and gum disease. We will also clean their teeth. Regular professional dental cleanings are essential for a healthy mouth. During your child’s dental cleaning, we will gently remove any buildup of plaque or tartar to help prevent tooth decay.

During this visit, our team will spend time discussing proper brushing technique and oral

hygiene with your child. Depending on your child’s age, we may also teach them about the correct use of floss and mouthwash. Our team members are friendly, patient, and great with kids, and will answer all questions that you or your child may have. 

We may recommend that fluoride be applied to the teeth as part of your child’s treatment. Topical fluoride is used to strengthen enamel and make teeth more resistant to tooth decay. The process is easy, safe, and effective. 

We also may recommend the placement of sealants for your child. Sealants are highly effective in preventing tooth decay and cavities on your child’s molars and premolars. These areas are the most susceptible to cavities due to the anatomized grooves.

Typically, children get sealants on their permanent molars and premolars as soon as these teeth come in. These sealants can protect the teeth through the cavity-prone years of ages 6 to 14. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants.

The process of applying sealants is easy and fast. The application steps are as follows:

?Your child’s teeth are thoroughly cleaned

?The teeth are dried

?A liquid solution is put on the chewing surfaces of the teeth

?The solution is cured using a special curing light

Sealants act as a barrier and protect the enamel from plaque and acids. They may last for several years before a reapplication is needed. As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay. Sealants are not a substitute for brushing your teeth. It is important to maintain proper oral hygiene and keep up with professional dental cleanings. Also, sealants do not protect between teeth, so it is essential to continue to floss daily.

Our expert dentist and knowledgeable team have the experience and qualifications to care for your child’s teeth, gums and mouth throughout various stages of childhood. For more information or to request an appointment, contact our office today.

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

Creating A More Youthful Smile | Dentist 39503

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Your smile is one of the first things a person will notice when they meet you. You can create a more youthful smile with one simple procedure. Whitening your teeth can make you look younger, especially if your teeth are currently stained, dull or discolored. Our dental office provides whitening services for new and existing patients. 

Regardless of how well you care for your teeth, over time, discoloration will occur. The main causes of stained teeth are genetics, antibiotics, tobacco and certain foods. As

we age, our teeth darken as well. While preventing tooth discoloration is nearly impossible, our experienced team can help reverse the effects of discoloration by helping to create a whiter and brighter smile.

Whether it’s an in-office treatment or at-home treatment, the principles of teeth whitening are the same. A special whitening agent is applied to the teeth in order to

bleach stains and brighten your smile. Our dentist will discuss your whitening needs and goals with you to determine which option is best for you.

In-office teeth whitening is the quickest method to a brighter, whiter smile. With the supervision of an experienced dental professional, a stronger bleaching solution can be used than with at-home kits. Optimal results are achieved much faster with the professional whitening treatment, and in many ways the results are better given the nature of the bleaching agents that are used. Patients find that they appear younger just by restoring their bright, white smile. 

During a professional teeth whitening treatment, we will first clean the teeth. We will then apply a whitening agent to your teeth, carefully avoiding your gums and soft tissue. Once applied, a laser light will be directed at the teeth to expedite the process. For maximum results, the process may be repeated more than once.


If a visit to our office for professional whitening isn’t an option for you, at-home treatment may provide the whitening you need. You will find a vast variety of at-home teeth whitening products on the market, including whitening toothpastes, over-the-counter gels, rinses, strips, trays and more. We can fit you with custom-made whitening trays that will more accurately conform to your teeth for a more even whitening result. At-home teeth-whitening results are less dramatic compared to those achieved in the office. 

If you are looking to brighten your smile and create a more youthful appearance for your teeth, contact our office for more information or to schedule a consultation today.

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

Be in the Know About Enamel Erosion | Dentist 39503

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Do you believe that only sweet-tasting foods and beverages are bad for your teeth? Think again. 

Dietary components other than sugar can also harm your teeth. Acid-rich foods and drinks cause tooth erosion, which is the erosion of the enamel that shields your teeth. Your teeth will now look different, and microorganisms that can cause cavities or infections will now have access to your mouth.

What Does Tooth Erosion Do to My Teeth?

Tooth erosion is irreversible. If the enamel on your teeth has begun to erode, you may: 

  • feel pain or sensitivity after consuming hot, cold, or sweet beverages.
  • Observe a yellow discoloration of the teeth.
  • Observe a change in your fillings.
  • Face a higher risk of cavitiesDevelop an abscess, in extreme cases.
  • experience tooth loss, also in extreme cases.

If erosion occurs, you may require fillings, crowns, root canals, or even tooth removal. Alternatively, you may be able to restore the appearance of your teeth with veneers.

Acidic foods and beverages to avoid.

As a general rule, it is best to limit how much citrus, citrus-flavored, carbonated or sour foods or beverages you consume. 

Acidic foods, such as tomatoes and citrus fruits, can have some acidic effects on tooth enamel, which is why you should eat them as part of a meal rather than alone. As a result of their sticky nature and ability to adhere to teeth, dried fruits, such as raisins, can also cause dental problems, as the acids produced by cavity-causing bacteria continue to harm teeth long after they have been consumed.

However, soft drinks, particularly soda and sports drinks, are the major erosive agents. Even if they are sugar-free, they may still be acidic due to the carbonation. Any drink with that bubbly fizz will have a higher acid content. Citrus flavors, such as lemon, lime, and orange, can also contribute to the acidity in beverages. Even all-natural beverages like orange juice and lemonade are higher in acid than regular water, so use them occasionally rather than daily. 

Speaking of sweet treats, some sour candies are almost as acidic as battery acid, and many use citric acid to achieve the desired effect. Please pucker in moderation if you like a little sour with your sweet tooth.

How to Protect Your Teeth

You can reduce tooth erosion by following these tips when eating and drinking:

  • After eating acidic foods, wait an hour before brushing to allow your saliva to naturally wash away acids and re-harden your enamel.
  • You should limit or avoid acidic beverages like soda. If you must indulge, use a straw. 
  • Don’t swish or hold your drink in your mouth for longer than is necessary when drinking something like a soft drink. Sip and swallow. 
  • Rinse your mouth with water after acidic meals or beverages, then drink milk or eat cheese as soon as possible. Dairy and other calcium-rich foods can help neutralize acids. 
  • Saliva also helps control acid. Keep your saliva flowing and protect your teeth by chewing sugarless gum with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. 
  • Use dental health products that have the ADA Seal of Acceptance. The ADA Seal means the product is safe and effective, and some have been awarded this seal specifically because they help prevent and reduce enamel erosion from dietary acids.
  • Consult your dentist. Dental professionals can explain the effects of nutritional choices.
  • on your teeth, including which foods and beverages to choose and which to avoid. By learning as much as you can about the effects of what you eat and drink on your teeth, you can keep your smile bright for a lifetime.

We care about your oral health and want to make sure you are taking all possible precautions to maintain the integrity of your smile. Contact our dental office today to schedule an appointment.

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

The Health and Social Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry | 39503 Dentist

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By caring for your gums and teeth, a dentist can reveal a lot about your oral health and overall physical health. As a result, practicing proper oral hygiene habits will help you maintain your health. Not surprisingly, cosmetic dentistry has a number of health benefits. However, cosmetic dental procedures can have some social benefits as well. Here’s a brief breakdown of these health and social benefits. 

Health Advantages

Cosmetic dentistry seeks to improve a person’s appearance by restoring their smile. Any cosmetic dentist, however, will tell you that it’s not just about looks. It’s also important to keep your gums and teeth as healthy as possible. For example, once you understand the benefits of having your teeth reshaped, straightened, and whitened, you will be naturally motivated to focus more on your dental hygiene and overall oral health. And with a dazzling beautiful smile, your confidence will automatically rise a few notches.

People have been known to alter their drinking and eating habits in order to preserve the appearance of their teeth. To improve their physical health and prevent their teeth from becoming discolored or stained, they avoid drinking sugary beverages, eating junk food, and smoking tobacco. Another example is someone who has crooked teeth. When your teeth are crooked, they are misaligned. As a result, your bite is uneven, and due to the stress on your jaw muscles, you may begin to develop chronic headaches and migraines.

Social Advantages

Thanks to cosmetic dentistry and the procedures it provides, you can easily achieve the smile you’ve always desired. Having a bright smile and perfect teeth will make you feel better about your appearance, which will benefit you socially by increasing your self-confidence and self-esteem. You may discover that you are much more extroverted or outgoing than ever before. Most importantly, having a perfect smile attracts positivity and may brighten someone else’s day.

In addition to the foregoing, when you have your smile restored, you will notice a difference in how people interact with you and look at you. Behavioral studies, according to the American Journal of Social Psychology, show that attractive individuals with bright, perfect smiles fare much better in job interviews. Furthermore, in certain social situations, they have a significant advantage over others.

Our dental office can provide a number of treatment options and procedures that could transform your appearance if you are embarrassed by your smile. Cosmetic dentistry is not inexpensive, however. In spite of this, once you see the benefits it offers health-wise as well as socially, you will quickly realize the value of your investment in your smile. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

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

The Four Most Common Causes of Gum Recession | 39503 Dentist

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Do your teeth appear abnormally large when you smile? Do you get a dull ache when you drink cold or hot beverages? Have your gums suddenly become loose? If you answered yes to any of the following questions, you most likely have gum recession.

Gum recession causes your gums to pull away from your teeth. This causes your teeth to appear larger than normal, exposes the roots of your teeth, and can cause sensitivity. There may even be a notch around the gum line that represents the transition between the crown and the root. Because gum recession happens gradually, it may not be noticeable right away.

Gum recession can occur for a variety of reasons, but some are more common than others. The top four are listed below.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is one of the most common causes of gum recession. Gum disease is caused by plaque or tartar accumulation along the gum line. When the gums recede, pockets form in which bacteria can accumulate, causing the process to repeat itself. Bacteria are naturally present in the mouth, but too many can be harmful. Gum disease can be avoided by practicing good oral hygiene.

Brushing Method

An incorrect brushing technique can also cause gum recession. To begin with, your toothbrush’s bristles should be soft. If the bristles are too stiff, they can irritate the gums. Furthermore, brushing too hard can wear down your tooth enamel over time, resulting in problems with sensitivity. 

Oral Hygiene

Brushing twice a day for two minutes, flossing daily, and semiannual teeth cleanings are all necessary for controlling the bacteria population in the mouth and preventing gum disease and tooth decay. Brushing cleans 60 percent of the tooth’s surface, while flossing cleans 40 percent. By skipping one or the other, a portion of your tooth’s surface is not properly cleaned. As a result, plaque is likely to build up. Tartar forms when plaque is left undisturbed for an extended period of time. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing and must be removed using specialized dental tools. Plaque and tartar both irritate the gums and cause them to recede.

Dental Issues

Because teeth and gums are interdependent structures, problems that affect one affect the other. Common issues include misaligned teeth or a misaligned bite. Tooth misalignment or an improper bite can cause excessive pressure to be exerted on specific teeth. As a result, the gums around those teeth may recede. Teeth grinding and clenching are also common dental problems. Excessive teeth grinding or clenching can also cause gum recession, similar to the pressure exerted by misalignment.

Gum recession is frequently caused by gum disease, improper brushing techniques, poor oral hygiene, and dental problems, as evidenced by the information presented above. Understanding how these common factors can contribute to gum recession allows you to take proactive steps to maintain your oral health. By addressing the most common causes of gum recession, you can reduce your chances of further gum recession and gum disease. That’s something to be happy about! For more information, please contact our dental office to schedule an appointment.

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

Dental Anxiety: The Truth | Dentist 39503

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Do you experience anxiety or nervousness that is preventing you from seeing a dentist? Dental treatment should not be stressful for you. If you are uncomfortable with pain, are embarrassed, or feel like you are losing control during a dental examination, there are two things you need to know: you are not alone, and you can get help.

Anxiety About Dentistry Is Common

According to research, there is some degree of anxiety associated with visiting the dentist. It is estimated that between 10 and 20% of the general population undergoes such high levels of stress and nervousness that they neglect their oral health. There is an increased risk of developing severe oral health complications that require additional attention.

There are two main causes of dental anxiety. In the past, patients may have had a negative experience that left them apprehensive about going to their next appointment. The second way is through influence. Children are particularly susceptible. They learn through imitation and are influenced by their parents. If you dread going to the dentist, your child is likely to pick that up and develop similar fears.

Tips to Help with Dental Anxiety

  • Bring a trusted friend or family member to go with you to the dentist.
  • Listen to music or choose a television program to distract you.
  • Prepare a list of questions before you arrive at the office.
  • Take breaks when needed, and don’t be afraid to ask for them.
  • Find a dentist that you trust and who makes you feel comfortable.

We Are Here To Help

Let your dentist know about your feelings of nervousness and anxiety as soon as possible. To help you feel more comfortable and relaxed, many dental offices can offer options to help ease your fears. Most offices offer nitrous oxide, which is also known as “laughing gas.” Nitrous oxide is a colorless, non-flammable gas commonly used in medical and dental procedures as a mild sedative. It helps to relieve anxiety before the procedure and allows the patient to relax.

Some dentists may recommend more advanced options, which may include medications such as valium for severe cases of anxiety.

We encourage you to contact our dental team if you have skipped appointments or avoided dental care completely due to nervousness, stress, or fear. The field of dentistry is constantly evolving with new technology and treatment methods geared toward patient safety and comfort. The lack of attention to your oral health can have serious consequences that will require more treatment if you ignore it. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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

Beware of These Beverages | Gulfport, MS Dentist

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Alcohol consumption is known to be harmful to your health. Sugar, caffeine, and alcohol, all of which are present in a lot of popular drinks, have been proven to be harmful to the body. You may not be aware, however, that these beverages can also damage your teeth. The following are a few suggestions for consuming these beverages responsibly.

Energy drinks, juices, and sodas.

The high sugar content of these drinks can negatively affect your health. Their effects on your teeth, however, are less obvious. Prolonged exposure can damage your enamel as well as cause cavities and other dental issues.

Coffee

Many coffee drinks contain the same amount of sugar as sodas and juices. However, even people who drink their coffee black run the risk of damaging their teeth if they continue to consume it over time. Having too much coffee every day can stain your teeth, although the degree of staining varies from person to person.

Beer, wine, and liquor

While red wine may seem to stain your teeth, there is no difference between all wines and the risk they pose to your teeth. Additionally, darker beers can subsequently stain your teeth over some time depending on how often you consume them. Even though hard liquor itself is generally not a threat to your enamel, the mixers that go along with it can cause serious damage to it.

The Best Way to Protect Your Teeth

The first thing that may come to mind if you drink one of these beverages is to brush your teeth as soon as possible. Unfortunately, brushing your teeth too soon can have the opposite effect. Several of the beverages previously mentioned have a high acid content. Acid can have the effect of softening your enamel, and the pressure you apply when brushing can further contribute to this process. After drinking sugary or acidic drinks, it is recommended that you drink water and wait 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Additionally, swishing the water around as you drink it will help to gently rinse off the enamel and allow it to harden before brushing.

A healthy diet is just as important for your teeth as it is for the rest of your body. You should follow a routine that includes regular brushing and flossing, as well as professional cleanings twice a year, so moderate consumption of any of these beverages will not negatively impact your oral health. For an appointment at our dental office, please contact us today!

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

Need Answers to Your Sensitivity Issues? | Dentist Gulfport

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Is sensitivity a common problem for you? Usually, tooth sensitivity can be treated with a wide range of treatment options that can provide some relief. Unfortunately, tooth sensitivity is often misunderstood. Here are some common questions regarding tooth sensitivity:

When eating cold or hot foods, are people’s teeth supposed to hurt?

The problem is unlikely to be serious if the discomfort or pain lasts only for a few seconds after drinking a hot or cold beverage. The cause of tooth sensitivity in these cases is likely to be mild decay (cavities), a loose or lost filling, or minor gum recession. Although it makes sense to schedule a visit to your dentist as soon as possible, it does not require emergency dental care.

If the sensitivity lasts 30 seconds or more, the internal structure (pulp) of your tooth has likely been permanently damaged in these cases. This may be due to deep dental decay, a tooth fracture, an accident or trauma, or it may be the consequence of an infection. In any of these cases, it is best to schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible so that a thorough evaluation can be performed before the pain becomes unbearable.

Does sensitivity toothpaste work?

Desensitizing toothpaste contains compounds such as potassium nitrate or strontium chloride. These products work by preventing pain signals from traveling between the surface of your teeth and your inner nerves. It may take several uses of the toothpaste before you see a difference. For those with more severe and prolonged sensitivities, prescription-strength toothpaste may be helpful. Our dental team is happy to suggest products that may be helpful to you.

If you have sensitive teeth, should you refrain from drinking coffee or eating ice cream?

You are not restricted from eating and drinking your favorite foods. If you are experiencing pain, you should consult with your dentist to determine the cause. Depending on your condition, they may recommend a specific toothpaste or suggest other possible treatment options. Maintaining proper oral hygiene will help in the prevention of tooth sensitivity.

Does sensitivity cause tooth loss?

Sensitivity may be a precursor to tooth loss. A recession of the gum line, which exposes the roots of your teeth, may cause sensitivity in several teeth at the same time. Prolonged gum recession can result in tooth loss. Furthermore, decay can cause sensitive teeth and, in the long run, can lead to an infection in the gums or jaw that can spread to other parts of the head and neck. With the right diagnosis and treatment, you can keep your teeth and mouth healthy.

Depending on the cause of your tooth sensitivity, our dentist can treat the condition in various ways. One of the easiest ways to prevent sensitive teeth is to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. For more information, please contact our dental office to schedule an appointment.

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

Yikes! Canker Sores 101 | Dentist Gulfport, MS

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When you have a canker sore, eating, drinking, and talking can be very uncomfortable and even painful. Maintaining a healthy oral hygiene routine can also be challenging when you have a sore in your mouth. However, you must continue with your daily routine as part of your healing process. 

What is a canker sore?

Typically, canker sores are small, reddish lesions. They are located on your tongue, on the sides of your mouth, and at the base of your gums. In some cases, a sore may appear yellow or white in the center. In addition, you may feel a burning or tingling sensation a day or two before the sores appear.

A canker sore is different from a cold sore (also referred to as a fever blister). Cold sores usually appear on the outside of your lips or at the corners of your mouth.

Where do they come from?

Injuries are one of the most common causes of canker sores. This can be caused by biting your lip or cheek due to stress, an injury from sports, or even brushing vigorously. Some individuals are sensitive to toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulfate, which may result in sores. Certain foods may also cause canker sores. Sores are known to be triggered by foods such as chocolate, eggs, nuts, and spicy foods. Occasionally, an unbalanced diet may be to blame, especially when zinc or vitamin B-12 deficiency is the underlying cause.

Can you tell me what I can do?

Maintaining a healthy mouth is your best defense. Keeping your teeth clean means brushing twice a day and flossing every day. It may be tempting to avoid brushing your teeth when you have a mouth sore. However, this can lead to a buildup of plaque and bacteria. To help the healing process, keep your mouth clean and healthy. Alternatively, you can try a mouthwash formulated especially for mouth sores. There are also over-the-counter and prescription products you can use, such as Benzocaine, Fluocinonide, and hydrogen peroxide. You can also take nutritional supplements such as folic acid, vitamin B-6, vitamin B-12, or zinc. Consult our team if you are unsure or if the pain persists.

It is recommended to brush around sores gently but thoroughly. Most canker sores will heal within one week. Make an appointment with our dentist if you experience sores frequently or if they do not heal within one week. We will evaluate the severity of your sore and may recommend alternate treatments if necessary.

For more information, contact our office to schedule an appointment. We are committed to your oral health.

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

I chipped my tooth! Now what? | Dentist Gulfport

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Usually, it starts innocently. After biting into a hard piece of candy, you realize there is one piece that won’t dissolve. You look at it, and you are overcome with fear when you see it is a chipped piece of a tooth. Fear not, this is very common and an extremely easy fix. 

Even though enamel is one of the hardest substances in the body, it has its limits. If you grind your teeth at night or chew on ice, you are always putting your teeth at risk. Chipped teeth are not a cause for alarm. By visiting a dentist, you can have your beautiful smile restored in the following ways:

Bonding

The bonding process can be very helpful in repairing chipped teeth as it has many structural uses. Bonding teeth is a simple procedure that doesn’t require numbing and can last anywhere between three and ten years. If the damage to your tooth is relatively minor and the chip in your tooth is subtle, this procedure may be appropriate. The bonding materials used are naturally matched to your teeth and can be designed to look just like natural teeth. Those around you will find it difficult to notice that you ever chipped a tooth, and your smile will appear as if it were brand new.

Dental Crown

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that can be placed over your tooth. Think of it as a hat that fits snugly over your teeth. Dentists commonly use porcelain or zirconia to make crowns that closely resemble your natural teeth. A crown restores the tooth’s shape, size, function, and appearance after it has been damaged. Crowns are cemented into place on the tooth and cover the visible portion of the tooth.

Porcelain Veneers

A porcelain veneer consists of several thin layers of ceramic and is commonly used to repair chipped teeth. As a replacement for the original enamel, they will be bonded to the teeth using a special adhesive. Porcelain veneers are also an excellent way to restore the appearance of healthy teeth and can last anywhere from ten to thirty years.

Today, there have been numerous advances in dentistry that allow a chipped tooth to be easily repaired. No one will ever know you had your teeth restored. Regardless of whether you need a complicated dental repair or just want to improve your smile, we are here for you. Please contact our dental office today to schedule an appointment.

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