Education

A Place to Learn About Oral Health

At Door Creek Dental, we believe that the key to great oral health lies in education. Our aim is to enlighten our patients and the broader community on a wide array of oral health topics—ranging from maintaining children’s dental health to familiarizing our patients with the latest procedures. We are committed to your knowledge and understanding of dental care, ensuring you stay informed and empowered in your oral health journey.

Why Oral Health Education Matters

Promoting overall health is a core mission of our practice. Maintaining oral health is vital to overall wellness—regardless of age, from children to seniors. Key practices, such as regular home dental care and using mouth-guards for contact sports, are integral to maintaining good oral health and preventing disease.

Meet Our Educational Leaders

Dr. To-Schwalbach: With extensive continuing education, Dr. To-Schwalbach advocates for treatment grounded in care and compassion, continually contributing to her patients’ educational growth and health.

Dr. Davidova: Dr. Davidova is committed to comprehensive oral and dental care. She emphasizes education as a core part of her patient interactions.

Dr. Jong: Her personal philosophy is centered on providing comprehensive care tailored to each unique individual, promoting the importance of building strong patient relationships through education.

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity affects millions of people and can make everyday activities like eating or drinking uncomfortable. It occurs when dentin, the layer beneath the enamel, becomes exposed.

Causes:

• Worn enamel from aggressive brushing or acidic foods
• Receding gums due to periodontal disease
• Cracked or chipped teeth
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)

Prevention and Treatment:

• Use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth
• Avoid acidic food and beverages
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing technique
• Consult your dentist for fluoride treatment or dental bonding

Dental Implants: What You Need to Know

Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

Benefits:

• Improved appearance and speech
• Enhanced comfort and self-esteem
• Durable and long-lasting
• Prevents bone loss in the jaw

Procedure:

1. Consultation and treatment planning
2. Surgical placement of the titanium post
3. Healing and osseointegration
4. Placement of the abutment and crown

The Role of Nutrition in Oral Health

Why It Matters: Your diet has a significant impact on your oral health. Poor nutrition can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and other dental problems.

Good Foods for Teeth:

• Dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt)
• Crunchy fruits and vegetables (apples, carrots)
• Nuts and seeds
• Water (especially fluoridated)

Foods to Limit:

• Sugary snacks and beverages
• Acidic drinks (soda, citrus juices)
• Sticky candies

Baby Teeth Care: Building a Foundation for Lifelong Dental Health

Importance of Primary Teeth: Even though baby teeth fall out, they are vital for speech development, eating, and guiding permanent teeth into place.

Tips for Parents:

• Clean baby’s gums with a damp cloth before teeth erupt
• rush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears
• Schedule the first dental visit by age one
• Avoid putting baby to bed with a bottle

Managing Dental Anxiety

Common Symptoms:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Sweating or feeling faint
• Panic or nervousness at the thought of dental care

Strategies to Cope:

• Communicate your fears to your dentist
• Practice deep breathing or meditation
• Use distractions such as music or stress balls