Category: dentistry

Healthy Smile, Healthy Body: The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Well-Being | Dentist Near Me

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At Family 1st Dental in Plainview, we believe that maintaining a healthy smile is not just about keeping your teeth clean, it’s about protecting your overall health. Good oral hygiene is essential in preventing tooth decay and gum disease, but did you know that the health of your mouth can reflect the overall condition of your body? Studies have shown a direct link between gum disease and serious health conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The good news is that by taking care of your oral health, you can potentially prevent these issues from developing.

The Mouth-Body Connection

When oral hygiene is neglected, harmful bacteria can accumulate on your teeth and gums, making them more susceptible to infection. As the bacteria grow, your immune system responds, causing inflammation and eventually leading to gum disease (periodontitis). If left untreated, gum disease can escalate into more serious health problems. Chronic inflammation in the mouth can trigger a cascade of issues that affect other parts of your body, from the heart to the lungs. Thankfully, these complications are preventable with proper oral care.

Tips for Improving Your Oral Health

Maintaining good oral hygiene not only protects your teeth and gums but can also help you avoid major health risks. Here are some simple steps to follow:

  1. Brush Twice a Day
    Brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Make sure to choose a toothbrush that fits comfortably in your mouth and allows you to reach all areas, including the back teeth. If you’re unsure about which brush is right for you, feel free to ask our dentist in Plainview during your next visit.
  2. Floss Daily
    Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, areas where a toothbrush may not reach. Regular flossing helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay by keeping the spaces between your teeth and under the gumline clean.
  3. Eat a Healthy Diet
    A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can contribute to better oral health. Avoid sugary snacks and beverages that can lead to tooth decay and plaque buildup.
  4. Avoid Tobacco Products
    Smoking and using other tobacco products are major contributors to gum disease and can also increase your risk of oral cancer. Quitting tobacco can have significant benefits for both your oral and overall health.
  5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
    Regular dental check-ups are vital for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. At Family 1st Dental in Plainview, our team will monitor your oral health, identify potential problems early, and provide personalized recommendations to help you maintain a healthy smile and body.

By following these steps and maintaining a consistent oral care routine, you can reduce your risk of gum disease and other health issues. For personalized advice and care, schedule an appointment with our dentist in Plainview today. We’re here to help you achieve a healthy smile that supports your overall well-being!

Family First Dental – Osmond
Phone: (402) 748-3713
408 North State Street
Osmond, NE 68765

Easy Flossing Alternatives to Keep Your Smile Healthy | Dentist in Plainview

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Flossing is one of the most important habits for maintaining a healthy smile, yet many people find it difficult to incorporate into their daily routines. Whether it’s because traditional thread floss is tricky to use, too time-consuming, or just feels messy, you’re not alone. At Family 1st Dental in Plainview, we want to help make flossing easier and more effective for you. If you’ve been struggling with regular flossing, here are some convenient alternatives to help you remove plaque from the areas your toothbrush can’t reach.

1.) Disposable Floss Picks

Disposable floss picks are simple, easy-to-use tools that come pre-threaded with floss. With their plastic handles and Y-shaped prongs, there’s no need to measure or handle floss manually. These picks are great for travel or on-the-go use. You can easily insert the floss between your teeth, remove it, and then dispose of it after use, making it both quick and convenient.

2.) Non-Disposable Floss Picks

Non-disposable floss picks are similar to the disposable kind but come with a reusable handle. These tools are ideal for patients with smaller mouths or crowded teeth, as the extended handle makes it easier to reach the back teeth. They are also environmentally friendly since you can replace the floss head and reuse the handle. If you’re looking for a sustainable option that’s still effective, these picks might be a great choice.

3.) Water Flossers

Water flossers are an excellent alternative, especially for people with sensitive gums. These electronic devices use streams of pressurized water to clean between your teeth and along the gumline. Many models come with adjustable pressure settings, allowing you to customize the intensity for a comfortable clean. Water flossers are effective at removing plaque and debris, and many people find them easier to use than traditional floss.

4.) Interdental Brushes

Interdental brushes are small, cylindrical brushes designed to clean between your teeth. These brushes are particularly effective for people with braces or larger spaces between their teeth. They’re also a great option for anyone with limited dexterity, as they are easier to handle than traditional floss. Since they can be reused, they’re both practical and cost-effective. Be sure to ask your dentist in Plainview when it’s time to replace them.

5.) Air Flossers

Air flossers use a combination of air pressure and a small amount of water to clean between your teeth. These devices are typically easier to use than water flossers and are less messy. The air flosser works by gently blasting away food particles and plaque, leaving your teeth and gums clean and fresh with just a quick press of a button.

Find the Right Flossing Solution for You

Removing plaque and preventing tartar buildup between your teeth and gums is essential for maintaining optimal oral health. Finding a flossing alternative that suits your needs is the first step toward establishing long-term habits for a healthier smile. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, reach out to Family 1st Dental in Plainview. Our team is happy to assess your oral health and recommend the best flossing technique for your lifestyle. Schedule an appointment with us today!

Family First Dental – Osmond
Phone: (402) 748-3713
408 North State Street
Osmond, NE 68765

Important Facts About Oral Cancer You Should Know | Dentist Near Me

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Oral cancer is a serious health concern, with one American dying from it every hour, according to the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health. Many cases go undetected until it’s too late, highlighting the critical need for regular dental examinations. Early detection can significantly increase your chances of successful treatment and a healthy life. Here are some essential facts about oral cancer, including risk factors, symptoms, and more.

1. Oral Cancer is More Common in Men

While anyone can develop oral cancer, studies indicate that it affects men more than women, with a ratio of 2:1. This disparity may be linked to higher rates of smoking and drinking among men. Regardless of gender, it’s crucial to stay informed about the signs and symptoms of oral cancer. If you haven’t had an oral exam recently, ask your dentist in Plainview to include a thorough check during your next visit.

2. Approximately 450,000 New Cases Are Diagnosed Annually

With such a high number of new cases each year, someone you know has likely been affected by oral cancer. Awareness is key and knowing the signs can make a difference in early detection and treatment.

3. Lifestyle Choices Influence Your Risk

Your lifestyle significantly impacts your risk of developing oral cancer. Research indicates that about 80% of individuals diagnosed are heavy smokers, and 70% are heavy drinkers. Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake can substantially lower your risk. It’s never too late to make healthier choices for your oral health.

4. Early Detection Can Lead to a 90% Cure Rate

One of the most alarming aspects of oral cancer is that it often remains undetected until it’s advanced. Regular dental check-ups can help catch suspicious lesions or changes in your mouth early on. If you notice any unusual changes, such as persistent sores, lumps, or difficulty swallowing, contact your dentist immediately.

Staying informed and proactive is the best defense against oral cancer. At Family 1st Dental – Plainview, we are committed to helping you maintain your oral health. If you have any questions or concerns regarding oral cancer or would like to schedule a check-up, please reach out to our office. Your health is our priority!

Family 1st Dental of Plainview

Phone: (402) 582-3344

Url: https://ffdplainview.com/

406 West Locust Avenue

Plainview, NE 68769

Understanding Craze Lines: What They Are and What to Do | Dentist Plainview

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Have you ever noticed small cracks on the surface of your teeth while looking in the mirror? These are known as craze lines, and they may be more common than you think!

What Are Craze Lines?

Craze lines are typically harmless and often appear as a natural result of years of regular tooth use. Your teeth endure a lot of pressure from everyday activities like chewing. If you grind your teeth (a condition known as bruxism) or use your teeth to open packages, you may notice these lines more frequently.

These lines can develop on both the front and back of your teeth and are particularly common in adults. In most cases, they are regarded as cosmetic issues and don’t require treatment. However, certain habits, such as drinking dark beverages or using tobacco, can cause these lines to become stained.

When to Seek Advice

If you have concerns about your craze lines, it’s a good idea to consult your dentist in Plainview. They can evaluate whether these lines are contributing to any existing tooth issues or if they may be a result of grinding. Most of the time, craze lines do not lead to any significant problems. Some studies suggest that they might increase sensitivity after teeth whitening treatments, but further research is needed.

Preventing Craze Lines

If you haven’t developed craze lines yet and want to minimize your risk, regular dental visits are key. While some individuals may be more prone to these lines, maintaining good oral hygiene and having routine check-ups can help keep your teeth healthy.

At Family 1st Dental – Plainview, we are dedicated to helping you maintain a vibrant, healthy smile for years to come. If you have questions about your dental health or would like to schedule an appointment, please reach out to our office. We’re here to support you in achieving optimal oral health!

Family 1st Dental of Plainview

Phone: (402) 582-3344

Url: https://ffdplainview.com/

406 West Locust Avenue

Plainview, NE 68769

Top 5 Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth | Plainview Dentist

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When it comes to maintaining your oral health, your diet plays a crucial role. What you choose to eat can either support your dental health or lead to problems down the line. By focusing on beneficial foods and minimizing harmful ones, you can enjoy a lifetime of smiles. Here’s a guide to the best and worst foods for your teeth, specifically tailored for residents of Plainview.

Best Foods for Your Teeth

1. Dairy Products

Foods like cheese, milk, and yogurt are excellent choices for your dental health. They are rich in calcium and protein, which help strengthen tooth enamel. Incorporating these dairy products into your diet can provide essential nutrients for maintaining strong teeth.

2. High-Fiber Foods

Fiber-rich foods, such as leafy greens, beans, and a variety of fresh fruits, promote saliva production. Saliva is your mouth’s natural defense against bacteria, helping to wash away food particles and combat decay.

3. Water

Water should be your primary beverage. It helps rinse away sugars and food particles while keeping saliva levels balanced. Staying hydrated is vital for overall health and specifically for maintaining good oral hygiene.

4. Sugar-Free Gum

Chewing sugar-free gum can be beneficial for your teeth. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), it increases saliva flow, which can help clean your mouth after meals. A piece of gum can be a great post-meal option to help keep your teeth clean.

5. Lean Proteins

Foods such as eggs, fish, chicken, and lean cuts of red meat are excellent sources of phosphorus. This mineral is essential for calcium absorption, supporting healthy teeth and bones.

Worst Foods for Your Teeth

1. Acidic Foods

Be cautious with acidic foods like citrus fruits, wine, and candies. The acids in these items can erode tooth enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to decay.

2. Sodas

Soft drinks are high in sugar and acidity, both of which are detrimental to your dental health. Regular consumption can lead to cavities and enamel erosion.

3. Sports Drinks

While they may offer hydration during exercise, sports drinks are often loaded with sugar. It’s best to limit their intake and opt for water instead.

4. Alcohol

Alcohol can dry out your mouth, reducing saliva production and increasing the risk of cavities. It can also lead to tooth staining over time.

5. Sticky or Sugary Candies

Candy is a primary culprit of tooth decay due to its high sugar content. Limit your candy intake, and remember to rinse your mouth with water afterward to wash away any lingering sugars.

By being mindful of your food choices, you can significantly improve your oral health. Focus on incorporating teeth-friendly foods while limiting harmful options. Regular visits to your dentist in Plainview for cleanings and check-ups are also essential for keeping your smile bright and healthy. Contact our office today to schedule your next appointment!

How to Maintain Your Oral Health While on Vacation | Dentist 68769

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Keeping up with your dental hygiene routine can be easy during your regular workweek, but going on vacation often disrupts those good habits. At Family 1st Dental, your trusted dentist in Plainview, we want to help you enjoy your trip while maintaining a healthy smile. Here’s how you can keep your oral health on track during your vacation.

Plan Ahead
Before you leave, pack all the essentials you’ll need for proper dental care, including a toothbrush, floss, and travel-sized mouthwash. Be sure your toothbrush has a protective cover or is stored in a separate bag to avoid contamination between uses. It’s also a good idea to take care of any pending dental work—such as a filling or root canal—before your trip, to avoid any potential emergencies while you’re away.

Set a Routine
Vacations often come with irregular schedules, but it’s important to maintain your oral hygiene routine even when things get busy. Set a plan to brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once. Sticking to this routine as much as possible will help keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your trip.

Watch Your Diet
Vacation is a time to indulge in delicious food, but be mindful of how sugary and acidic foods and drinks can affect your teeth. Cocktails, sodas, and desserts can wear down tooth enamel and contribute to tooth decay if consumed excessively. To protect your teeth, enjoy these treats in moderation. Consider packing healthy snacks like fruits and nuts for your outings—they’re easy on your teeth and wallet!

Also, keep a reusable water bottle with you to stay hydrated and rinse your mouth after meals or sugary drinks. This helps wash away food particles and prevent plaque buildup.

Maintain Your Smile with Ease
With a little planning and discipline, you can maintain your oral health while enjoying your vacation. Pack the right tools, stick to a routine, and be mindful of what you eat and drink to keep your teeth in great shape.

If you need a cleaning or treatment before heading out on your next adventure, contact your dentist in Plainview at Family 1st Dental. We’re here to help you prepare for a healthy, stress-free vacation!

Family 1st Dental of Plainview

Phone: (402) 582-3344

Url: https://ffdplainview.com/

406 West Locust Avenue

Plainview, NE 68769

Cracked Teeth and How to Prevent Them | Dentist Plainview

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A cracked tooth can affect both the appearance of your smile and the functionality of your teeth. Depending on the severity, you may experience discomfort or difficulty chewing. Fortunately, many cases of tooth damage can be avoided by understanding what causes cracks and taking preventive measures. At Family 1st Dental, your trusted dentist in Plainview, we’ve gathered the most common reasons for cracked teeth and tips on how to avoid them.

1. Chewing Hard Foods
While your teeth are strong, they aren’t indestructible. Chewing on hard foods such as nuts, ice, or popcorn kernels can put stress on your teeth, leading to cracks. Limiting your intake of these foods or being mindful while chewing can help prevent damage.

2. Grinding Your Teeth at Night
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, often happens without you even realizing it, particularly during sleep. Over time, grinding can wear down enamel, leading to stress fractures or craze lines in your teeth. If you grind your teeth, wearing a night guard can protect them by acting as a barrier between your upper and lower teeth.

3. Natural Aging
As you age, your teeth naturally become more susceptible to cracks. People over the age of 50 are more prone to cracked teeth due to the cumulative effects of years of chewing. While aging is inevitable, you can minimize its impact on your teeth by practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist in Plainview regularly.

4. Trauma to the Mouth
Accidents, such as vehicle collisions or sports injuries, can result in dental trauma and cracked teeth. While some accidents are unavoidable, wearing a mouthguard during contact sports can significantly reduce your risk of dental injury.

Preventing Cracked Teeth
Cracked teeth are one of the leading causes of tooth loss, especially if left untreated. By avoiding common causes like chewing hard foods or grinding your teeth, you can help keep your smile healthy. However, if you do experience a cracked or chipped tooth, our team at Family 1st Dental is here to help restore your teeth to full health.

For more information or to schedule your next appointment with your dentist in Plainview, contact our office today. We’re dedicated to keeping your smile strong and beautiful!

Family 1st Dental of Plainview

Phone: (402) 582-3344

Url: https://ffdplainview.com/

406 West Locust Avenue

Plainview, NE 68769

Plainview NE Dentist | Repair Your Smile with Dentures

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Our dental team is pleased to provide high-quality removable dentures to new and existing patients who have experienced the loss of some or all of their teeth. These dentures are custom-crafted to fit the individual patient’s mouth and specific tooth replacement needs. They provide both a cosmetic and functional replacement solution for tooth loss.

To make the dentures, we will make a series of impressions of the patient’s jaw, teeth, and gums, including several measurements. A model will be crafted, tested, and adjusted until the color, shape, and fit of the denture are right for the patient’s unique needs. Once the model is ready, it is sent to the dental lab and used to cast the permanent denture. Finally, the patient will receive the permanent denture and minor adjustments will be made, if necessary, to ensure comfort and fit.

There are two basic types of dentures: Conventional Full Dentures and Partial Dentures. Each of these meets a different teeth replacement need.

  • Conventional Full Dentures are a great option if a patient needs replacement for all of the upper and/or lower teeth. Once the gums have fully healed from any extractions, we will take impressions and measurements of the jaws and gums. These are used in crafting a custom model of the future denture. The model will be adjusted for fit, then sent to the lab for the denture to be made. Once complete, he will fit the denture to the patient’s mouth, making any minor adjustments needed to ensure a secure, comfortable fit.
  • Partial Dentures, also known as Dental Bridges, are a replacement for one or more missing teeth. Besides the aesthetic reason for bridges, patients often choose to have a bridge to prevent teeth from rotating or shifting into the empty spaces caused by tooth loss. A standard bridge places a crown on the teeth surrounding the empty space, then attaches a replacement tooth to those crowns. We will match the replacement to the patient’s natural teeth for a consistent look to their smile.

With any form of dentures, the patient should follow up with the doctor as recommended. We may need to make adjustments to dentures over time to keep proper fit and full comfort. Dentures should be cleaned regularly using a soft bristle toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleanser to avoid buildup of plaque. Generally, dentures should be replaced every 5-10 years. Ask our doctor to evaluate whether your dentures should be refit or replaced.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with our Plainview dentist, contact Family 1st Dental of Plainview today.

 

Family 1st Dental of Plainview
Phone: (402) 582-3344
406 West Locust Avenue
Plainview, NE 68769

Plainview NE Dentist | 12 Reasons to See Your Dentist

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Don’t wait until you’re in pain to see your dentist! Most people make time to clean out the house, car, garage, or closets at least twice a year. Why not include your oral health on your “to do” list?

Schedule an Appointment Now!

Regular professional cleaning and examinations are essential to maintaining optimal oral health. These routine visits are your first line of defense against tooth decay, periodontal disease, oral cancers, and more. Early identification and treatment of any oral illness improves outcomes and allows for less-invasive treatment options. Don’t wait until it hurts!

Why Do We Avoid Going?

The HDI institute, in a study done with the American Dental Association, lists some of the main reasons we sometimes delay going to the dentist. Cost, low perceived need, time, and anxiety are the most common causes. However, if we allow these concerns to interfere with oral care, we may allow more serious issues to develop.

When Should We See the Dentist?

The ADA or American Dental Society recommends maintaining twice yearly visits for cleaning and examinations. In addition, they advise making an appointment for any of the following concerns:

  1. Pain in your mouth, teeth, or face
  2. Injury to your mouth, teeth, or face
  3. Conditions that can affect oral health, such as diabetes
  4. Pregnancy
  5. Jaw pain or stiffness
  6. Bleeding, swelling, or redness in your gums
  7. Recent dental treatment, such as fillings, crowns, implants, or root canal
  8. Pain or difficulty eating or drinking
  9. Chronic dry mouth
  10. Smoking or tobacco use
  11. Sores in your mouth that are not healing
  12. You have questions or concerns about your oral health or hygiene

Our Plainview dentist is here to help you achieve and maintain your best oral health. To schedule your next appointment, please contact Family 1st Dental of Plainview.

 

Family 1st Dental of Plainview
Phone: (402) 582-3344
406 West Locust Avenue
Plainview, NE 68769

Plainview NE Dentist | Restoring Smiles with Veneers

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About 1 in 4 adults in the United States feels embarrassed by the look of their smile. Our dental office is proud to offer porcelain dental veneers to new and existing patients. Our doctor has the training and experience to provide porcelain veneers to patients who wish to restore a whiter, healthier, more even look to their smile.

Porcelain veneers are a cosmetic and restorative dental solution that mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. Veneers create an immediate improvement in the appearance of a smile. They are a minimally invasive treatment option and can be more cost-effective than many other cosmetic improvement options.

Patients  whose teeth are healthy, but are chipped, cracked, crooked, or mildly stained can benefit from veneers. Patients whose teeth are uneven or have gaps may also find veneers are a great solution for improving the look of their smile.

We offer custom-crafted porcelain veneers that are fitted precisely to cover the front surface of the tooth. Because porcelain is a semi-translucent material, the tooth continues to have a natural healthy appearance with the veneer in place. Veneers are chosen with care to match the natural teeth around them, to ensure optimal aesthetic results.

Once placed, porcelain veneers are a strong, stain-resistant, and long-lasting cosmetic dental solution. However, porcelain dental veneers need ongoing dental care, just like natural teeth. They should be brushed and flossed regularly and normal dental exam and cleaning schedules should be maintained. When cared for properly, veneers can last a lifetime.

There are some additional factors to consider before choosing veneers. First, it is common to experience some sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages for a few days following the placement of veneers. This is generally mild and unlikely to last more than about a week.

Second, while porcelain is a strong and durable material, it is recommended to avoid activities that will put great stress on the veneers, such as chewing excessively hard foods or using the teeth to attempt to open a nut or bottle. Finally, any patient who has issues with bruxism (grinding) should discuss this with our doctor before deciding whether to have dental veneers placed.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with our Plainview dentist, contact Family 1st Dental of Plainview today. We’re here to give you a smile that you can show with pride.

 

Family 1st Dental of Plainview
Phone: (402) 582-3344
406 West Locust Avenue
Plainview, NE 68769

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Plainview, NE 68769

(402) 582-3344

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Our Dental News

Healthy Smile, Healthy Body: The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Well-Being | Dentist Near Me

At Family 1st Dental in Plainview, we believe that maintaining a healthy smile is not just about keeping your teeth clean, it’s about protecting your overall health. Good oral hygiene is essential in preventing tooth decay and gum disease, but […]

Learn More

Easy Flossing Alternatives to Keep Your Smile Healthy | Dentist in Plainview

Flossing is one of the most important habits for maintaining a healthy smile, yet many people find it difficult to incorporate into their daily routines. Whether it’s because traditional thread floss is tricky to use, too time-consuming, or just feels […]

Learn More

Important Facts About Oral Cancer You Should Know | Dentist Near Me

Oral cancer is a serious health concern, with one American dying from it every hour, according to the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health. Many cases go undetected until it’s too late, highlighting the critical need for regular dental examinations. […]

Learn More