What Can Cause Stains on Your Teeth?

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Do your teeth have unsightly discoloration? You can end up with stains on tooth surfaces for many reasons. Our dentists in Woodbridge, VA, at Niles Dental offer teeth whitening to remove these flaws. But what causes them to develop?

Caffeinated Drinks

Tea, coffee, some sodas, and similar beverages can stain your teeth, especially if you drink them regularly.

Red Wine

This type of wine contains pigments that can leave your teeth looking discolored.

Berries

Some berries, like darker-colored ones, may stain tooth enamel, especially if you eat them frequently.

Soy Sauce

This type of sauce can leave brownish stains on teeth if you tend to use it a lot with meals.

Acidic Foods

Tomato sauce, citrus fruits, and other foods with higher amounts of acid can discolor your teeth.

Smoking

Cigarettes and other tobacco products containing nicotine can leave stubborn stains on your teeth, giving them a yellowish or brownish appearance. Our teeth whitening in Woodbridge, VA, can get rid of these stains. But they may come back if you continue to smoke.

Oral Hygiene Problems

Skipping brushing and flossing regularly can cause plaque to cover tooth surfaces, giving them a stained appearance.

Age-Related Tooth Changes

The enamel on your teeth becomes thinner and more transparent as you get older, causing the yellowish dentin layer to show up more and affect their appearance.

Genetics

This can play a role in how your teeth look in terms of their coloring. Whitening may help them appear brighter.

Schedule a Visit for Professional Teeth Whitening!

Are you eager to get stains off your teeth? At Niles Dental, our dentists offer professional teeth whitening in Woodbridge, VA, eliminating discoloration and making teeth several shades lighter!

3 Tips to Care for Your Tongue (and Why It Matters)

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When it comes to oral healthcare, chances are you associate it largely with your teeth. (Unfortunately, even the gums can get sidelined by many people!) This can sometimes cause you to overlook taking care of your tongue, which can lead to more significant problems down the line. Here, we’ll look at how to put your tongue front and center, and how that can bolster your overall oral routine.

How to Care for Your Tongue

Start off with the following:

  • Brush: Instead of just swiping your tongue with the brush, use either a soft-bristled brush or invest in a tongue scraper. Use around five strokes, start at the back, and scrape in gentle motions across the whole surface. Toothpaste is optional!
  • Hydrate: When you can’t brush, drinking water is the best way to stave off bacterial growth on the tongue. Add an extra glass of water or two, particularly after you eat.
  • Visit the dentist: A dentist in Woodbridge, VA can tell you more about how your teeth and tongue interact. Plus, they can scrape off any plaque and tartar that can potentially interfere with your oral health.

Why Oral Hygiene Matters

Bacteria often accumulate on the teeth, but they can easily start off on the tongue. Brushing your tongue and scheduling regular teeth cleanings in Woodbridge, VA can stave off more than just bad breath. At Niles Dental, we can help you keep up with a twice-a-year schedule, so you can reduce your odds of anything from tooth decay to gum disease. As an added bonus, cleaning your tongue more often may even enhance the taste of your favorite foods and drinks!

What’s the Difference Between an Amalgam and Composite Filling?

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When you have a cavity, your dentist in Woodbridge, VA, should recommend fillings to prevent dental decay from spreading. Fillings help restore your teeth so you can eat and drink comfortably again.

The dentist may ask you whether you want amalgam or composite fillings. These two types of fillings are very different from one another. Knowing the differences and choosing the right fillings can help you care for your teeth.

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam dental fillings have been used to fill cavities for decades. Amalgam is made from a combination of metals, giving these fillings a silvery color when they’re first installed. Over time, the amalgam turns a darker color. After many years, the amalgam may be dark gray or black.

Amalgam fillings are long-lasting and durable. They can last for 15 years or more, and for some people, they can last for decades. Amalgam fillings are most commonly installed in the back of the mouth, where they are less noticeable.

Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are made from tooth-colored resin and blend seamlessly with tooth enamel. Composite fillings are often preferred by patients filling cavities toward the front of the mouth because composite resin is virtually impossible to distinguish from tooth enamel.

Composite fillings do not last as long as amalgam fillings. Typical composite fillings last about seven years and then need to be replaced. If you’re concerned about installing a filling that will last as long as possible, consider composite fillings.

Insurance does not always pay for composite filling installation. If you’re on a budget and concerned about getting a filling as inexpensively as possible, you may need to consider amalgam fillings. Do you have a cavity and need fillings in Woodbridge, VA? Call us today to make an appointment to see one of our dental professionals.

How Can I Tell If I Have a Cavity?

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A cavity is a pit in your tooth enamel formed by tooth decay. Cavities often happen due to poor oral hygiene habits and a high-sugar diet. Some people are genetically predisposed to get cavities, and some people are at high risk for cavities due to medications or health conditions.

If you have a cavity, it’s important to get help from a dentist in Woodbridge, VA. Being able to recognize the signs of a cavity can help you decide when to visit the dentist. If you think you might have a cavity, here’s what you need to know.

Signs You Have a Cavity

There are many signs that you might have a cavity. Some of these symptoms are similar to symptoms of other problems, so it’s important to go to the dentist to find out why you’re experiencing symptoms.

  • Toothache. One of the most common signs of a cavity is a toothache. You may feel pain when biting down or when eating or drinking something sweet. You may also feel pain randomly, unconnected to specific activities. If the toothache is severe, this could be a sign that you have a dental infection.
  • Discoloration on your tooth. If you have a cavity, you may notice that your tooth is discolored or that the enamel looks brown or black.
  • Rough area or hole in your tooth. You may be able to feel the cavity with your tongue, or you may be able to see the hole in your tooth, depending on the location of the cavity. 

If you have one of the symptoms above, find out whether you need cavity fillings in Woodbridge, VA. Call today to make an urgent appointment with your dentist. 

 

Why Can’t I Get Rid of My Bad Breath?

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Bad breath can be embarrassing and uncomfortable for you – and other people. If you have bad breath, it’s important to take care of it! Your dentist in Woodbridge, VA, may be able to help you identify the cause of your bad breath. If you have a problem like gum disease, you need treatment from a dentist to fix the problem. Here’s what you need to know about bad breath.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Bad breath is typically caused by bacteria in the mouth. People with poor oral hygiene habits and oral health often have bad breath. Bad breath can also be a result of food that has entered the bloodstream. This is why onions and garlic cause bad breath hours after eating.

Some dental health conditions that can cause bad breath include:

  • Cavities
  • Dental infection
  • Gum disease

What Does It Mean If My Bad Breath Won’t Go Away With Brushing?

If brushing your teeth doesn’t cause your bad breath to go away, this could be a sign of a problem like gum disease. Brushing your teeth will not resolve the problem if you have gum disease. In this case, you need help from a dentist.

What Can I Do About My Bad Breath?

If you have bad breath that won’t go away, continue brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once per day. Also, talk to your dentist during your next dental cleaning in Woodbridge, VA.

Your dentist can give you a tutorial on brushing and flossing during your dental cleaning. Your dentist will also check your teeth and gums for signs of cavities, gum disease, and dental infection.

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Just How Bad Is Chewing Ice for My Teeth?

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For many people, chewing ice is a bad habit that they’ve fallen into. Those who like the satisfying crunch of foods may find chewing ice strangely satisfying. If it’s a habit you’ve had for a while now, you may even assume it can’t be that bad for your oral teeth. Below, we’ll look at why a dentist in Woodbridge, VA might have a different opinion on the matter.

What Does Chewing Ice Do for Your Teeth?

There are a few significant problems with chewing ice:

  • Broken teeth: Ice is hard enough to chip or crack your teeth, especially if they already have any type of weakness, whether it’s from a cavity or nearby dental work.
  • Enamel: Enamel keeps your teeth safe from cavities, and ice can start to wear it down after a while.
  • TMJ: Any number of things can cause TMJ, including chewing ice. The more pressure you put on your jaw, the more inflamed your tissues will get. The pressure can impact anything from speech patterns to your ability to open and close your mouth.

Find a Dentist In Woodbridge, VA

At Niles Dental, our staff knows that patients don’t always have the healthiest habits when it comes to taking care of their teeth. Whether you’re not always diligent about flossing, you’ve skipped a dental cleaning or two, or you find yourself chomping on ice once in a while, the right dentist can help you get back on the right track.

When you visit us, we won’t lecture but instead give you the information you need to make the best decisions for your oral health. If you’re concerned about your teeth, whether you’re experiencing pain or not, contact us today to schedule a dental exam in Woodbridge, VA. 

Foods to Avoid for Better Dental Health

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Food is one of the greatest joys of life. While several different types of food are healthy for your teeth and gums, others are not. It’s best to avoid these troubling foods if you want optimal oral health!

Here at Niles Dental, your dental health is always our main concern. Our team of dental professionals can provide the trusted services you need. Call us today to find the most reliable general dental care in Woodbridge, VA!

In this post, we’ll discuss the top foods to avoid for better dental health.

Chewy Candy

Chewy candy can be a nightmare for your teeth, especially if you have braces. This food easily gets trapped between your teeth and along your gums, making it difficult to remove. Not only can this be annoying, but it can also lead to a buildup of bacteria. This bacteria makes acid by burning sugar, which works to dissolve the protective layer of tooth enamel.

Citrus Fruit

Although citrus foods have a lot of nutritional benefits, they can be harmful to our dental health. The problem lies with the acidic nature of these foods, which can lead to the erosion of tooth enamel. Try to limit eating the more acidic fruits like lemons and grapefruits, and opt for less acidic varieties like oranges.

Hard Candy

While you should avoid chewy candy, hard candy is also a no-no. These foods take a long time to dissolve, allowing bacteria to flourish. The longer surgery foods stay in your mouth, the worse it is for your dental health. Additionally, biting down on hard candy can also lead to issues like chipped teeth.

Pickles

Pickles are very acidic, making them a poor food choice for your teeth. The acid in this food can cause excessive tooth enamel erosion, making you more prone to dental complications.

Niles Dental is here to provide top-of-the-line oral health solutions. Call us today to work with the top dentist in Woodbridge, VA!

5 Benefits of Routine Dental Checkups

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Are you due for a dental checkup? If it has been over six months since you’ve seen the dentist, then it’s time to make an appointment with Niles Dental today! We’re happy to offer the most dependable dental checkups in Woodbridge, VA.

Keep reading to learn the 5 benefits of routine dental checkups.

Catch Problems Early

Dental issues can be extensive and expensive. This is especially true if you let a dental problem go untreated. When you visit your dentist for routine checkups, they can examine your teeth and gums and look for any areas of concern. This is a great way to catch dental issues early on before they become more serious.

Save Money

As dental checkups can prevent oral health issues, these appointments can save you tons of money. For example, leaving a cavity untreated can lead to needing root canal treatment, which is more costly and extensive than a filling.

Improved Dental Health

During a dental checkup, your dentist examines your teeth and gums and typically provides in-depth teeth cleaning. This can take your oral health to the next level!

Whiter Smile

Dental checkup appointments involve thorough teeth cleaning, flossing, and examining your entire mouth. By receiving this type of care every six months, your teeth can appear brighter and whiter!

They’re Affordable

Another advantage of routine dental checkups is that they’re cost-effective! In fact, these preventative visits are often fully covered by insurance, compared to other, more extensive treatments that are usually only partially covered.

Are you ready to experience exceptional dental health with a glowing smile? Contact Niles Dental today to get started! We offer dental checkups, fillings, root canal treatment, and more! Call us today to work with a leading dentist in Woodbridge, VA.

How Can Pregnancy Change My Oral Health?

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During pregnancy, your body undergoes a variety of changes. Many of these changes are well-known, including hormone shifts, morning sickness, changes in appetite, and others. One thing that isn’t as well known is that many pregnant women experience changes in their oral health. Your dentist in Woodbridge, VA, can help you navigate these changes.

Pregnancy and Oral Health

During pregnancy, you may notice that your gums sometimes bleed when you brush your teeth and potentially at other times as well. This happens because of rises in hormone levels that cause the gums to swell.

Pregnancy can also put some people at higher risk for problems like gum disease. Gum disease during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk for preterm birth, so it’s important to stay on top of your oral health and hygiene while pregnant.

Can I Visit the Dentist While I’m Pregnant?

Yes, you can visit the dentist while you’re pregnant. In fact, it’s very important to maintain healthy teeth and gums when you’re pregnant. If you’re pregnant, be sure to tell your dentist when you come in for your dental exam. Your dentist may put off your dental x-rays until a time after your pregnancy.

If you need a cavity filling or root canal, it’s important to get this done. By the time you’re in your third trimester, laying on your back for extended periods of time may be an issue, so talk to your dentist when you’re having a problem to find out what the next steps are.

Need A Dental Examination? Call Your Dentist Today

At Niles Dental, we’re committed to helping our patients maintain their dental health and oral hygiene. Call today to schedule your next dental exam in Woodbridge, VA.

Tips to Make Your Toothbrushing Experience More Productive

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Toothbrushing is probably the most important thing you do daily to care for your teeth. When you’re brushing your teeth, you brush away bacteria and food particles that can turn into plaque and tartar. If you can keep plaque and tartar off your teeth, you can help prevent gum recession and disease.

As yourdentist in Woodbridge, VA, we highly encourage you to brush your teeth twice daily. Below are four things you can do to make your tooth-brushing experience more productive.

1. Brush for 2 minutes at a time.

Experts recommend brushing your teeth for two minutes at a time to remove particles from your teeth. It’s important to avoid brushing for longer than two minutes at a time because this can contribute to gum recession. You can ensure that you’re brushing your teeth for the right amount of time by timing yourself or by listening to a song that’s two minutes long while you brush.

2. Use a dentist-recommended electric toothbrush. 

Electric toothbrushes can be more effective at removing plaque while brushing. This can help keep your teeth cleaner. To ensure you’re getting the most out of your toothbrushing experience, use an electric toothbrush your dentist recommends.

3. Be gentle.

You don’t need to scrub hard to remove plaque and tartar! Using gentle movements, you can get rid of plaque and help protect your gums simultaneously.

4. Get a tutorial from your dentist.

The next time you come in for adental cleaning and examination in Woodbridge, VA, ask your dentist at Niles Dental to give you a tutorial on how to brush your teeth.

Need a dental appointment? Call today to get your appointment scheduled.