Oral Health
Halloween Doesn’t Have to Be Scary for Your Smile!
Halloween is just around the corner, with its spooktacular treats and ghoulish confections. But don’t let the spooky sweets scare you away from smiling and enjoying the holiday! Our team at Afton Dental is here to help you and your family safeguard your smiles with the following Halloween dental tips. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene Practices…
Read MoreWhat Is Periodontal Disease and How Is It Treated?
Did you know that periodontal (gum) disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults? The progressive condition affects millions of people worldwide, and because it is virtually pain-free in its early stages, it often goes undiagnosed and untreated. At Afton Dental, we emphasize the importance of prevention, early detection, prompt treatment, and ongoing…
Read MoreCan You Have Too Much Fluoride?
Fluoride is a mineral found naturally in water, plants, soil, rocks, and even the air. Touted by the American Dental Association (ADA) as “nature’s cavity fighter,” fluoride is commonly used in dentistry to strengthen tooth enamel and make it more resistant to decay. The question is, can you have too much fluoride? What Are the…
Read MoreWhy Are Mouthguards So Important to Wear While Playing Sports?
Did you know that a staggering 15 million Americans sustain dental trauma, and more than 5 million teeth are lost every year as a result of sports-related injuries? That is why your trusted team at Afton Dental recommends wearing sports mouthguards custom-made for you right here at our Concord, NC office. We are all about…
Read MoreHow Oral Cancer Screenings Save Lives
Visiting Afton Dental for your twice-a-year dental exams and cleanings is a great way to keep tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease at bay. During your appointment, we will conduct an oral cancer screening to uncover any abnormalities early on for the best treatment outcomes. We are all about maintaining a lifetime of healthy smiles!…
Read MorePatient question: “How do I prevent gum disease?”
Great question. It’s usually easy to tell when you have a cavity, but unfortunately, gum disease can exist in your mouth without you even knowing. In fact, you can have the beginning stages of gum disease without even noticing any pain or discomfort. Since gum disease can be undetectable, it’s imperative to watch for warning…
Read MoreFebruary is also American Heart Month!
You may remember our post from last week, when we discussed February being National Dental Health Month and the benefits of visiting our office every six months (or as recommended). But did you know February also marks American Heart Month? It’s a great time to take notice of the health of your heart as cardiovascular…
Read MoreWhich Type of Mouthwash is Best?
Taking care of your oral health involves a daily regimen of brushing, flossing, and rinsing to prevent tooth decay and bacterial infections. Though you may have asked us which toothbrush to use, few patients ask about mouthwash. However, different mouthwashes you might choose will have varying effects on your oral health. So which type is…
Read MoreWhat is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a type of periodontal disease in which only your gums are affected. Gingivitis, according to the American Dental Association (ADA), is a milder and often reversible type of periodontal disease. However, it can lead to periodontitis — a more destructive and serious disease — if proper professional treatment and home care aren’t put…
Read MoreIf I have braces, do I still need a dental checkup every 6 months?
Thanks for the question! Yes! In fact, it’s even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit our office regularly. When you’re wearing braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush normally can’t reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis and even gum disease. Believe it or…
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