Hannibal Cosmetic Dentist | Dr. Janes

Dental myths haven't really changed much over time. Patients seem to share the same ones with us on a regular basis– so it is time to do a little myth-busting and set the record straight on some of the more common misconceptions about caring for your teeth.

Myth #1 – Children don't need to see a dentist because their baby teeth are just going to fall out anyway.

Truth – Children need to learn good oral hygiene from the beginning. If baby teeth are damaged by decay and must be removed early there may be problems with bite or improper development of the adult teeth. Children need regular checkups and treatment just like adults.

Myth #2 - Pregnant women shouldn't go to the dentist because it can be dangerous for the baby.

Truth – The truth is actually just the opposite. We now know that periodontal disease can lead to premature birth. Regular dental hygiene appointments before and during pregnancy are a must.

Myth #3 – Brushing your teeth using a hard bristle brush gets them cleaner.

Truth – Brushing with a hard bristle brush or brushing too vigorously can damage your tooth enamel. Better to brush with soft bristles twice a day and floss.

Myth #4 – Bleaching your teeth will make your teeth soft and give you cavities.

Truth – The technology used for bleaching teeth that is used today won't harm your enamel. Patients have a choice of over-the-counter strips, custom fitted trays, or in-office treatments like Zoom! That being said, all dental whitening should be done under the supervision of your dentist to ensure that you achieve the appropriate shade for your smile and to help avoid sensitivity issues.

Myth #5 – I was born with ugly teeth and never had braces. Now I'll never have a beautiful smile.

Truth – Cosmetic dentistry offers many options that weren't available a few years ago. Many adults choose to change their lives with a Smile Makeover. The procedures involve little discomfort and financing plans are available to meet your budget. Your smile is the first thing people notice when they meet you – make yours bright and beautiful.

If you live in the Hannibal, Missouri and Quincy, Illinois areas and have questions about these or any other dental myths please contact Charles W. Janes, D.D.S. today at 1-800-873-3980 or by filling out our online contact form.

Many patients come to our office for smile makeovers and request that we use a product called Lumineers rather than regular dental veneers. Mostly this is because of the highly effective marketing campaign that the laboratory that makes Lumineers has run. Magazine and television advertising have made the Lumineer brand highly visible to consumers. While this product is very similar to regular dental veneers there are some differences that patients must be aware of.

Both Lumineers and veneers (also known as dental porcelain laminates) are very thin, porcelain shells that cover only the visible part of your tooth. Both are resistant to staining and both can repair minor imperfections in teeth. However, most highly trained, experienced cosmetic dentists prefer dental veneers. Why?

First, because Lumineers are designed to require no preparation of the tooth they are very limited in cosmetic cases. Teeth that are slightly turned or misshapen cannot be corrected by Lumineers. Even on teeth that are simply discolored, the product can leave a "bulky" look. In contrast, traditional dental veneers can be used to perform "instant orthodontics" or extreme smile makeovers.

Another plus for veneers is their extreme durability. Veneers can last up to 15 years and have a very natural appearance. Because of their resistance to staining your new smile can keep its brilliance for years.

To find out more about porcelain veneers, please contact our St. Louis cosmetic dentistry office today at 1-800-873-3980 to schedule your initial consultation. Dr. Charles Janes serves patients in St Louis and Hannibal, Missouri and Quincy, Illinois.

Taking care of your teeth and gums is easy, takes very little time and can be one of the best ways to stretch your health care dollar. The main culprits in any dental problem are decay in the teeth and bacteria causing gum disease. Proper oral hygiene in the form of brushing and flossing correctly and consistently can keep your pearly whites in top form and, as study after study has shown; problems in your mouth can be linked to heart disease and certain cancers.

The first step is always a regular visit to your dental hygienist for a proper cleaning. Your hygienist will not only clean and polish your teeth but will assess the overall health of your gums and note any problem areas that Dr. Janes may need to look at. Catching and treating problems early prevents larger, more expensive problems later. While you have the undivided attention of your dental hygienist, ask about proper brushing and flossing techniques and will be more than happy to make sure you are performing your home care correctly.

Old wisdom had us visiting the hygienist twice a year but new research has shown that the bacteria that cause periodontal disease begin to spread rapidly at about 90 days. Therefore a three month recall may be needed for many patients to maintain their best oral health.

Other preventative measures include avoiding highly acidic food and drink, or if you do partake, you should wait 20 minutes before you brush your teeth. The acid in the juice or soda softens your tooth enamel. If you brush immediately you will further damage the enamel. One good way to keep your enamel healthy is chewing sugarless gum. The constant saliva bath caused by the chewing will wash away particles that can cling to teeth.

Regular brushing and flossing, along with trips to your hygienist will help you prevent cavities and periodontal disease. Not only will you be saving your smile, you will be protecting your overall health. Now that's the best preventative tip of all.

If you are in or near Hannibal, Missouri and Quincy, Illinois and would like to schedule a dental hygiene visit, please call 1-800-873-3980 or email our dental office in Hannibal, Missouri or Quincy, Illinois today.