The Best Floss and Tools for Cleaning Between Tight Teeth

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If you have teeth that are tightly packed together, flossing can feel like a frustrating challenge. Years ago, limited flossing options made it nearly impossible for many people to clean between their teeth effectively. Fortunately, advancements in dental products have made it easier than ever to find floss and interdental tools that work for even the tightest spaces.

At Dr. Tim Chauvin & Associates in Lafayette, we often hear from patients struggling to floss properly due to crowded teeth. The good news? There are now plenty of effective options to help you maintain healthy gums and prevent cavities. If you’ve been frustrated with flossing in the past, this guide will walk you through the best solutions available today.

The Best Floss for Close Teeth

Choosing the right floss is the first essential step in caring for a mouth full of tightly packed teeth. Years ago, thick waxed floss would often shred or fail to fit between certain teeth, making flossing a painful or discouraging experience. Now, you have much better options:

  • Ribbon-style floss – These are thin, flat, and slide more easily between tight teeth. Glide is a great option that minimizes friction while still effectively removing plaque.
  • Unwaxed floss – Traditional waxed floss is often too thick, but some brands now make waxed floss specifically for tight spaces. Reach Unwaxed and Glide Pro-Health Comfort Plus are both great choices.

If regular floss isn’t enough, there are other tools that can enhance your cleaning routine.

Beyond Floss: Additional Cleaning Tools

For some people, flossing once a day is enough. However, if you’re prone to plaque buildup or struggle to keep your teeth clean, adding another interdental tool can make a big difference.

1. Interdental Brushes

  • Brush-style picks – These tiny brushes (like Butler GUM Soft-Picks) resemble pipe cleaners and can be inserted between teeth to remove food debris and stimulate gums.
  • Plastic picks – If your teeth are too close together for brush-style picks, try flat plastic toothpicks with tiny bristles, such as those from The Doctor’s. They slide between tight spaces while still scrubbing plaque.

2. Floss Picks

  • Floss picks, like DenTek flossers, hold a short piece of floss between two plastic prongs, making them a convenient alternative to traditional floss. While they don’t replace full flossing, they help remove food particles and keep plaque in check throughout the day.

Why Cleaning Between Tight Teeth Matters

Flossing and interdental cleaning aren’t just about removing food debris. They help prevent cavities, reduce gum inflammation, and lower your risk of gum disease. If flossing has been difficult for you in the past, don’t give up—there are plenty of tools available to make it easier.

Need Help Choosing the Right Floss?

At Dr. Tim Chauvin & Associates in Lafayette, we can help you find the best flossing tools for your specific dental needs. If you’re struggling with tight teeth or frequent plaque buildup, schedule an appointment with our team. We’ll provide personalized recommendations and ensure you’re using the best techniques to keep your smile healthy.

Call us today to book your next dental cleaning!

Braces vs. Invisalign: Which is Right for You?

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Crooked, misaligned, or unevenly spaced teeth can affect more than just your appearance—they can impact your self-esteem, oral health, and overall well-being. Misaligned teeth can cause you to feel self-conscious about your smile, often leading to a lack of confidence in social situations. But there is a solution: Braces and Invisalign.

Not only do these treatments help straighten your smile, but they can also prevent long-term oral health issues. From our dentistry team at Tim Chauvin, DDS & Associates, dive into how these treatments work and which might be the best option for your needs.

Health Risks of Crooked Teeth

Beyond the aesthetic concerns, untreated crooked teeth can lead to significant oral health problems. When your teeth are misaligned, they place unnecessary stress on both your teeth and jaw. This can result in:

  • Premature Wear: Crooked teeth can cause chipping and notching at the gum line due to uneven pressure.
  • Jaw Pain & Headaches: Misalignment can lead to jaw discomfort, earaches, and even tension headaches.
  • Gum Disease: Crowded teeth make it more difficult to clean your teeth properly, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, which can lead to periodontal disease.

Common Types of Misalignment

  • Crowding
  • Spacing
  • Deep bite
  • Open bite
  • Crossbite
  • Edge-to-edge bite
  • Excessive overbite

Correcting these issues with orthodontic treatments can help prevent long-term complications and improve both the function and appearance of your smile.

Braces vs. Invisalign: What Are the Differences?

Both braces and Invisalign are effective treatments for straightening teeth and improving your smile. However, each comes with unique advantages, and which treatment is best depends on your specific needs.

Braces: The Traditional Option

Braces have been used for decades to straighten teeth. They consist of metal brackets that are glued to the teeth, connected by wires and rubber bands. While traditional braces are often silver, you can opt for tooth-colored brackets for a more discreet look, or go with colorful rubber bands to make a fashion statement.

Invisalign: A Clear, Removable Alternative

Invisalign uses clear, removable aligner trays made of BPA-free plastic to gently move your teeth into place. These aligners are custom-designed using 3D imaging technology to fit your teeth precisely. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign is virtually invisible and can be removed when eating or brushing your teeth.

Braces vs. Invisalign: A Quick Comparison

Feature Braces (Fixed) Invisalign (Removable)
Appearance Metal or tooth-colored brackets Clear, invisible aligner trays
Treatment Duration 24/7 for about 2 years 22-24 hours/day for 6-18 months
Cost $1,800 – $5,500 Average of $5,000
Maintenance Brush brackets and wires regularly Clean aligners with Invisalign cleaning system
Follow-up Visits Monthly visits to adjust brackets New aligners every 2 weeks; check-ups every 4-6 weeks
Post-Treatment Care Retainer or positioner may be needed Retainer or positioner may be needed

Pros and Cons of Braces vs. Invisalign

Braces Pros

  • Highly effective for more complex alignment issues
  • No need to worry about removing them
  • No extra cleaning steps beyond regular brushing & flossing

Braces Cons

  • Can cause discomfort from brackets and wires
  • Food can get stuck in the braces
  • Might lead to tooth discoloration or breakage

Invisalign Pros

  • Nearly invisible for a more discreet treatment
  • Removable for eating, drinking, and cleaning
  • No discomfort from brackets or wires

Invisalign Cons

  • Must be removed before eating or drinking anything other than water
  • Requires diligent cleaning after each meal to avoid staining
  • May cause some mild discomfort as teeth shift

Who Should Avoid Invisalign?

While Invisalign is a great option for many people, it may not be ideal for individuals with:

  • Contact sports players
  • Bridgework in place
  • Complex bite issues (such as needing vertical tooth movement)
  • Back tooth bite issues
  • The need for teeth rotation or alignment of canines/premolars

In these cases, traditional braces might be the better option.

Get Your Perfect Smile Today

If you’re ready to improve your smile and oral health, visit Dr. Chauvin’s office to explore your treatment options. Whether you choose braces or Invisalign, we can help you determine the best path for achieving a straighter, healthier smile.

signs you need to see the dentist dr chauvin lafayette la dentist

5 signs that mean you need to see your dentist

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We all know that we’re supposed to visit the dentist every six months. Some people may need more frequent visits, but for the most part, twice a year is the general rule. It’s important to see your dentist regularly that way any potentially serious issues are handled before they snowball into something very bad (and very expensive).

Aside from your usual check-up, there are some things that necessitate an immediate dental visit. From our dedicated Lafayette team at Tim Chauvin D.D.S. & Associates, here are 5 signs that mean you need to see your dentist.

1. Tooth pain

This is an obvious one, namely because it’s impossible to ignore. Tooth pain can interfere with eating, drinking, even talking! And tooth pain can have a variety of causes, so it’s very important to get to a dentist as soon as you notice it. It could be an infection, a cavity, debris lodged between your teeth, gum disease, or something else. Even if the pain recedes after a day or two, make sure you keep your appointment.

2. Swollen or inflamed gums

If your gums are swollen or inflamed, call your dentist immediately. What has most likely happened is that plaque has hardened beneath the gum line. It’s also a sign of gingivitis. If enough of this plaque accumulates beneath your gums, you’ll develop periodontitis, and surgery is the only way to fix it. This plaque is a breeding ground for bacteria, and when it’s beneath the gum line, it’s much easier for bacteria to get to the roots of our teeth, where it can do some serious damage.

3. A metallic taste in your mouth

Having a metallic taste in your mouth (as if you’ve been chewing on coins) is another common sign of gingivitis. It is also an indicator of periodontitis. See your dentist immediately if it starts to taste like you’ve been sucking on a penny.  

4. Dry mouth

Dry mouth can have a variety of causes, either from age, medication, or some form of bacteria. In each case, it’s important to have your dentist check it out. Our saliva actually helps our bodies fight off cavity-causing bacteria. When our mouth is dry, it’s much easier for the bacteria to get out of control. Dry mouth is also one of the main causes of bad breath. Schedule an appointment with your dentist, and drink lots of water in the meantime to keep things moist.

5. White spots on teeth

This is the first sign of dental decay. Typically, the white spots are unaccompanied by other symptoms, so it’s important to check your teeth carefully every time you brush and floss. The white spots appear because the enamel has begun to dissolve, thanks to acid-producing bacteria.

Contact Dr. Chauvin’s Office Today

If any of these sound familiar, our team is here to help. Call 337-234-2186 to set up your appointment with our experienced Louisiana dental professionals today!

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3 tips to improve your dental routine

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As adults, everyone is pretty set in their ways as far as our dental routines go. Maybe some of us have perfect teeth and an impeccable dental routine, while others simply brush their teeth and leave it at that. However, improving your dental routine can do wonders for you! After all, your dental health affects your entire body. On average, it takes 66 days to develop a habit (not 21 days, as the saying goes). Is it worth it to work at a new dental routine for roughly two months? Absolutely. Here are three tips to help you improve your dental routine.

At Tim Chauvin D.D.S. & Associates, our Louisiana team is passionate about helping you achieve optimal oral health. Dr. Chauvin and our dedicated team provide comprehensive dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. We believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain healthy smiles for life. From routine checkups and cleanings to advanced restorative treatments, we’re here to support you on your journey to a brighter, healthier smile.

Ready to take charge of your oral health? Let’s dive into these three easy-to-implement tips that can make a real difference in your dental routine.

1. Fuel Your Smile: Choose Tooth-Friendly Foods

Do you know what bacteria loves to eat? Sugar. Every time you reach for a soda or fruit juice instead of a water, you’re feeding all sorts of unwanted guests in your mouth. These bacteria will then multiply, and start causing damage to your teeth and gums. Carb-heavy foods tend to be high in sugar as well. By eating better, you’re starving the bacteria in your mouth. Opt for some celery or an apple when you get the munchies instead of a candy bar. In addition to limiting your sugar intake, eating better will also provide your body with the nutrients it needs to keep you healthy!

Snack smart! Reach for crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery or fruits like apples instead of sugary treats. These options help naturally clean your teeth while providing essential nutrients.

2. Fresh Start: Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly

This is a big one that a lot of people miss. Think about all the food particles and bacteria that are removed every time you brush your teeth… Sure, we rinse our toothbrushes – but that’s not enough. Over time, the toothbrush becomes a bacterial hotbed. Additionally, the bristles weaken with use, reducing their scrubbing power (and their effectiveness at removing debris from our teeth). You should switch out your toothbrush once you notice the bristles start to fray, or after an illness, typically 3 to 4 times a year.

The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Also, be sure to get a new toothbrush after you’ve been sick to prevent re-infection.

3. Maximize Your Toothpaste: Skip the Rinse

Do you use a toothpaste that supposed to reduce sensitivity, and it doesn’t seem to be working? Rinsing with water could be the culprit. Toothpaste is not just tooth soap. Depending on your choice of toothpaste, it can contain elements that strengthen your enamel, reduce sensitivity, prevent bacterial buildup, and so on. When you rinse your mouth after brushing, you’re washing all of those elements away and they can’t do their job properly! When you’ve finished brushing, spit out the excess, but leave the residue on your teeth to give it time to work its magic! If you don’t like the aftertaste, consider switching toothpaste flavors.

After brushing, spit out the excess toothpaste, but don’t rinse with water. This allows the active ingredients to stay on your teeth and work their magic. If you can’t stand the aftertaste, try a different toothpaste flavor.

Ready for a Smile Upgrade?

Have more questions about improving your dental routine? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Chauvin and our team at Tim Chauvin D.D.S & Associates! We’ll gladly discuss your current routine and provide personalized recommendations to help you achieve your best smile. We look forward to seeing you!

Why are dental implants better than dentures?

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When a person has lost one or several teeth, it’s very important to fill in the gaps. If there’s missing teeth, our other teeth will shift to compensate for the gap, eventually causing problems. There are a couple of options available for missing teeth, dentures and dental implants. Although dentures are the more common option, dental implants are superior. 

In this blog, our team of dental professionals at Tim Chauvin, DDS & Associates explains why.

What are dentures and dental implants?

Dentures are simply a removable mouthpiece that is attached to the gums with denture adhesive. Known as false teeth, they take some getting used to. They can shift while eating or speaking, and can even cause tooth decay in the surrounding, healthy teeth if they are not fitted correctly.

Dental implants are false teeth that are non-removable. They’re installed surgically, and look natural. They don’t damage the surrounding teeth and tissue, and if they’re correctly cared for they’ll last for decades.

Why are dental implants better than dentures?

Dental implants have the edge over dentures for several reasons.

  1. The most important reason dental implants are better is that they don’t cause infection or tooth decay. If a partial denture is too small, it allows bigger food particles to get trapped between the teeth. This of course leads to the development of plaque and cavity-causing bacteria. If the dentures are too big, they can rub against adjacent teeth, eventually wearing down the enamel, and making it easier for cavities to develop.

  2. Food particles and bacteria can also be trapped between the dentures and the gum line, especially if the dentures aren’t cleaned properly. This opens the door to other mouth infections or gum disease. Dentures are the better option only if people have a weak or unhealthy jaw and gums.
  3. Dental implants are the ideal option for people with a healthy jaw and gums. Typically, dental implants are used to replace one or two missing teeth, however two or more implants can be used as a base for multiple replacement teeth. Dentists actually prefer implants as they provide a more comfortable, natural-looking option for people who need a replacement tooth.

Are there any cons to dental implants?

The only bad news when it comes to dental implants is that they’re expensive, and some insurance providers won’t cover them.

If this is a problem for you, talk with your dentist and see if they will use your denture allowance towards a dental implant. Some dentists will, some won’t, but it doesn’t hurt to ask.

Contact Tim Chauvin DDS & Associates Today

If you’re looking at replacing a missing tooth, set up an appointment in our office today! We’ll go over the options and get you squared away.

What’s that metallic taste in your mouth?

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Have you ever had a strange taste in your mouth for no reason? Maybe a metallic or coppery flavor that just comes and goes? If you have, then you may have experienced something called parageusia. It’s a taste disorder that makes it seem like you’ve been sucking on a penny. It’s fairly common and has a wide variety of causes. They can range from harmless to very serious.

In this blog, our Louisiana dental team from Tim Chauvin D.D.S. & Associates will explain what parageusia is and what to do if you think you’re experiencing it.

What is Parageusia?

Parageusia, often referred to as a taste disorder or dysgeusia, is a condition where a person experiences a distorted or altered sense of taste. Most commonly, individuals describe a persistent metallic or bitter taste, even in the absence of any food or drink. This phantom flavor can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, affecting their enjoyment of meals and potentially leading to decreased appetite.

While parageusia itself is not typically a serious health concern, it can be a symptom of underlying medical conditions or a side effect of certain medications. Identifying the root cause of parageusia is essential for effective management and treatment.

What can cause parageusia?

In rare cases, parageusia can be a sign of Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. Generally, the metallic taste in your mouth can be linked to a number of other factors, including:

  • Pregnancy
  • Sinus issues caused by:
    • Allergies
    • A cold
    • Sinus infections
    • Upper respiratory infections
      • Your sense of taste and smell are very closely linked, so when you can no longer smell properly, you may experience odd tastes.
  • Middle ear surgery
  • Certain prescription medications
    • Such as antibiotics (clarithromycin/Biaxin or metronidazole/Flagyl or tetracycline), blood pressure medication (captopril/Capoten), glaucoma medication (methazolamide/Neptazane), gout medication (allopurinol), or osteoporosis medication
  • Food allergies
  • Central nervous system (CNS) disorders like:
    • Stroke
    • Bell’s palsy
  • Chemotherapy and radiation
  • Over-the-counter vitamins or medicines
    • These often contain heavy metals like copper, zinc, or chromium, and can affect your sense of taste. As your body processes the vitamins, the taste should dissipate. Just double check to make sure you’re taking the correct dosage!
  • Poor oral health
    • Not brushing and flossing correctly opens the door to problems like gingivitis, periodontitis, and other tooth infections. These can all produce a metallic taste.
  • Chemical exposure
    • Inhaling certain chemicals (especially mercury or lead) in large quantities can cause a metallic taste.

The good news is, if you’re healthy, then whatever is causing you to have that metallic tang is usually benign.

How do I get rid of the metallic taste?

Most of the time, once the underlying cause is taken care of, the metallic taste will go away. It may do so on it’s own, and be little more than a random occasional nuisance. If it doesn’t, you will want to see a doctor to rule out more serious problems, as it can also be indicative of undiagnosed diabetes, liver, or kidney disease. Parageusia isn’t usually the only symptom of these diseases, so if you aren’t having any other symptoms, they probably aren’t the culprit.

Don’t Let a Metallic Taste Linger – Contact Dr. Chauvin Today!

If you’re experiencing a persistent metallic taste in your mouth, don’t ignore it. While it may be a harmless temporary issue, it could also signal an underlying health concern. At our Lafayette, LA dental practice, Dr. Tim Chauvin and his team are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal oral health. Schedule an appointment today to rule out any dental causes of your parageusia and discuss ways to improve your overall oral well-being. We’ll work with you to identify the cause and find the best solution to get your taste buds back on track.

Remember, a healthy smile starts with a healthy mouth. Contact us today!

Canker sore causes and treatments

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Canker sores do not directly affect your teeth, but they are a huge part of your oral health; therefore, it’s your dentist’s concern. However, that doesn’t mean you should call your dentist every time you get a canker sore!

You’ve probably had one of these small ulcers before. Canker sores can appear almost anywhere inside your mouth—your gums, your tongue, your cheek, and even the roof of your mouth. They will be white or gray and very painful. In bad cases, you may feel like you have a cold. While not contagious, the pain from these bumps can make talking and eating difficult.

From our team at Tim Chauvin D.D.S. & Associates, here’s everything you need to know about canker sores and how they relate to your oral health.

What Causes a Canker Sore?

No one really knows the exact cause of these little mouth ulcers.

Some are most likely caused by stress or injury to the gum tissue. If you have a rare complex canker sore, it could be caused by a health condition, like a mineral deficiency. Certain foods, especially those that are very acidic, can also trigger or exacerbate canker sores.

Canker sores usually heal themselves within a few days or weeks. There are doctor-related treatments that do help the pain subside, but these are usually only administered in serious cases.

For less serious canker sores, there are some at-home treatments and remedies that help ease pain, discomfort, and possibly speed the healing process:

  • Saltwater Solution and Sodium Bicarbonate – Saline and sodium bicarbonate both help the mouth heal quickly by gently reducing the alkalinity and bacteria in the mouth
  • Hydrogen Peroxide Solution – Hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic that will help reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth
  • Over-The-Counter Oral Care Products and Mouth Rinse – Products such as gels, paste, and rinses that are specifically marketed for mouth sores may provide pain relief and help speed the healing process.

When to Tell Your Dentist about a Canker Sore

If it’s a serious case, or if you consistently deal with canker sores, you should talk to your dentist about your sores. Signs that it’s time to talk to him or her include:

  • More than 3 outbreaks a month
  • Extremely large canker sores
  • Sores that last longer than 3 weeks
  • Difficulty drinking and/or dehydration
  • Pain that will not subside even while avoiding trigger foods and taking pain medications
  • High fever
  • A spreading of the sores

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with your dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Don’t Let Canker Sores Ruin Your Smile!

If you’re struggling with persistent or painful canker sores, our team at Tim Chauvin D.D.S. & Associates is here to help. We can provide personalized advice and solutions to manage your symptoms and improve your oral health.

Schedule an appointment today!

Flossing chauvin dental lafayette la

Why Do You Need to Floss?

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A few years ago, flossing was removed from the government’s latest dietary guidelines. Many different studies were cited, and the results can be boiled down to the following: “The majority of available studies fail to demonstrate that flossing is generally effective in plaque removal.”

We respectfully disagree. Flossing is a very important component of proper oral hygiene!

From our experienced dental team here at the office of Dr. Chauvin & Associates, here’s why you need to keep flossing.

1. Flossing affects longevity

Flossing can actually help you live longer! We all know that oral and heart disease are closely linked: an unhealthy mouth is going to negatively affect cardiovascular health. Flossing is actually recommended by the geriatrician who created the Living to 100 Life Expectancy calculator.

The Leisure World Cohort Study also determined that flossing affected longevity. After following over 5,600 older adults for a decade, they found that adults who didn’t floss had a 25% – 29% higher risk of death than those that did floss.

2. Flossing helps with bad breath

Every time we eat, food particles get stuck between our teeth. And the best brushing in the world will never remove it all. If the food isn’t removed, it begins to decay. There are thousands of bacteria in our mouths, and when we leave food between our teeth, we’re just leaving them lunch! When certain bacteria eat, they also produce noxious gases. Between the two, a person’s breath could get pretty nasty.

3. Flossing prevents gum disease

Flossing is essential for preventing gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. This is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults.

When you don’t floss, plaque builds up between your teeth and along your gumline. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can irritate your gums and lead to inflammation. If left untreated, this inflammation can damage the tissues supporting your teeth, eventually causing them to loosen and fall out.

Flossing helps remove plaque from between your teeth and below the gumline, where your toothbrush can’t reach. This helps prevent the buildup of plaque and reduces the risk of gum disease.

Contact Dr. Chauvin to schedule your next appointment!

Flossing is still very important. You can use traditional floss, a water flosser, an interdental brush, or a floss pick, as long as you’re flossing! Although we recommend regular floss, anything is better than nothing at all. Only using mouthwash isn’t going to cut it. If you don’t know how to floss properly, or have more questions, call Dr. Chauvin’s office! We’ll be happy to show you the right way to floss!

Why replace a lost tooth?

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As a child, losing teeth is a very necessary step in growing up. Baby teeth fall out, adult teeth come in. However, losing a tooth (and not replacing it) as an adult, can have very dramatic dental and medical consequences. Our mouths have evolved over the millennia to be what they are today, and when a tooth is missing, it throws off a lot of things.

From our Lafayette dentist Dr. Chauvin and his dedicated team, here are some reasons you should consider replacing a lost tooth as an adult.

1. Missing a Tooth Makes Chewing Difficult

The first problem is a loss in chewing efficiency. Every lost tooth is a 10% loss in your ability to chew properly. This leads to swallowing food that is not completely chewed, increasing your risk of choking, and leading to digestive problems (because the rest of the digestive system now has to compensate for your teeth not properly doing their jobs).

The primary function of the mouth is to break down food enough for the stomach to be able to digest properly. If food isn’t masticated properly, the stomach may not be able to fully break down the food, so your body won’t be able to properly absorb nutrients from what you eat. Also, large chunks of food that do not digest can become a breeding ground for bacteria, ultimately causing gas, bloating, constipation or diarrhea, cramping, and abdominal pain. This can also contribute to acid reflux or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease).

2. Missing a Tooth Can Lead to Jaw Troubles

Another issue from a lost tooth is something called extrusion or supereruption. Essentially, without support on the opposite side of the mouth, the tooth on the opposite jaw will begin to drift down (or up) into the vacant space. The teeth on either side of the gap can drift inward as well, causing additional teeth to be misaligned. This reduces your bite strength, increases wear and tear on your teeth, and makes them harder to clean properly.

Moreover, the drifting and misalignment of teeth can also lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. When your teeth are not aligned properly, it can cause undue stress on your jaw joints and muscles. This stress can lead to chronic pain, headaches, and even difficulty opening and closing your mouth. TMJ disorders can significantly affect your quality of life, making everyday activities such as eating and speaking uncomfortable and challenging. Proper alignment and replacing missing teeth can help prevent these issues and maintain overall oral health.

3. Missing Teeth Can Cause a Collapsed Bite

You can also experience a collapsed bite. Your arch, the arc between the backs of your back teeth, will degrade over time. This will make your nose begin to point down, making your face shorter. After that, muscle tone in your face will be reduced, causing sunken cheeks and a pinched facial expression. In a nutshell, it makes a person look a lot older due to the loss of bone volume and muscle tone.

Contact Dr. Chauvin Today

It’s very important to replace a lost tooth immediately. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to fix. Once the other teeth start moving around, braces may be required to push them back into place. And as the teeth degrade, getting an accurate bite imprint will be almost impossible.

Have a missing tooth you suddenly feel a need to have fixed? Contact Dr. Chauvin’s office today!

Why do my gums bleed when I brush my teeth?

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Seeing red in the sink when you brush your teeth? Bleeding gums can be one of the first signs of gingivitis, or early gum disease.

With over 75% of Americans age 35 and older presenting with some sort of gum disease, it’s important to get yourself to the dentist to get evaluated as soon as you experience bleeding during or after brushing your teeth.

Gingivitis can be reversed, but it must be caught early! From our dental team at Tim Chauvin D.D.S. & Associates, here’s what to know about bleeding gums and how to keep your gums healthy.

Gingivitis and gum health

Gum disease usually begins because food is not properly removed from in between teeth, and over time, the food particles start to break down and lead to disease. The first stage, gingivitis, is an inflammation caused by plaque around the gum line. This plaque must be removed by a dentist and is another reason why regular checkups are crucial. In addition to bleeding gums, some other signs to look out for in regards to gum disease are formations of deep pockets between teeth and gums, loose teeth, and a red or swollen gum line. If gingivitis is allowed to advance, it can lead to a myriad of very serious issues, including tooth loss.

Although bleeding gums usually point to gingivitis, your bleeding may also be caused by a systemic illness or other issue. These could include:

  • diabetes,
  • hormonal changes due to pregnancy,
  • chemotherapy treatments,
  • use of tobacco or certain prescription medications, or
  • irritation of canker sores in the mouth.

Your dentist can evaluate you to properly diagnose the cause of your bleeding gums.

What to do to prevent bleeding gums

Regular and consistent oral care and dental visits are always the most effective way to prevent gum disease. Floss and then brush your teeth 2­3 times daily and be sure you are using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be gentle with the pressure you apply when you are brushing your teeth. Don’t be overly aggressive when you floss. Visit your dentist at least every six months, even if your teeth and mouth feel fine, and come in to see us as soon as you notice you’re having any issues.

Contact Dr. Tim Chauvin’s office today

Our team is adamant about oral health and eager to help anyone struggling with an issue. Call us today to make an appointment so we can tackle any problems you might be having – together!