Smiles By Martin Blog

Cleaning your teeth is so important for oral and overall health. Many people know the basics, but not everyone knows the proper tooth brushing techniques. To make the most out of brushing your teeth every morning and night in Southlake, TX, follow these simple techniques and tips from Smiles by Martin.

1. Size it out = When brushing your teeth, one of the first things you do is place toothpaste on the brush. Many Southlake, TX patients load up their brush with excess toothpaste, often without even realizing. Smiles by Martin recommends using only a pea sized drop of toothpaste. This is because too much toothpaste can pose many problems. For example, the extra abrasion toothpaste adds can lead to damages to the tooth structure. Plus, the more toothpaste, the more foam build up and increased frequency of spitting. This can be uncomfortable and messy, causing patients to stop brushing sooner than they should. So, just placing a small amount on the tip of the brush should be enough to properly clean your teeth.
2. Out with the old, in with the new = Many patients don’t change their brushes as often as they should, or in some cases at all! Replacing your toothbrush is also essential to proper brushing, and Dr. Martin reminds patients visiting the dentist in Southlake, Texas to replace your toothbrush every 3 months, or when it starts to show signs of wear and tear. For example, frayed or matted bristles are a tell tale sign that the brush needs to be replaced. Additionally, it may be easier to buy many toothbrushes and store them in your home, so you can replace yours whenever you need to. And, if you can’t remember how long it has been since you got a new brush, Dr. Martin says it may be a good idea to mark the calendar with a note or sticker on the date of the next change to ensure that you do not forget!
3. Add in mouthwash = Mouthwash is generally viewed as an optional additive – something that makes your breath fresher, but is not essential. While it is true that you can achieve good oral hygiene in Southlake, TX even without mouthwash, mouthwash can help make your oral health much better, and in a very simple way. Add mouthwash in to your routine by giving it a quick, 30-second wish through your mouth after you have completed your brushing routine. Dr. Martin also reminds you to select a mouthwash that contains fluoride. By using this rinse, you can help fight cavities, periodontal disease, and canker sores, all while keeping longer lasting fresh breath.
4. Don’t forget the floss = Smiles by Martin has said it over and over again! Floss is crucial to the maintenance of a healthy mouth. But still, many patients tend to skip this step or find excuses such as ‘my teeth are too close together’ or ‘I don’t even get food stuck in my teeth!’ To ensure the ability to floss, try purchasing a waxed floss that will glide between tight spaces, or use pre-cut plastic flossers that will give you a good handle to use to wedge the floss into the right space. And, keep in mind, that flossing does much more than just remove unwanted food excess. It prevents oral disease, keeps gums and teeth healthy, and helps avoid cavities in Southlake, TX.

By following these simple steps, you can take your brushing routine from blah to bright. Keeping your mouth properly brushed will ensure pristine oral health near Southlake, TX, as well as fewer dental emergencies. If you would like to learn more about proper brushing, Contact Smiles by Martin at (817) 481-1041. Our team will be happy to help you get a better smile easily!

We all know going to the dentist regularly is important! But, as a parent with younger children, you may find that you have questions, or concerns about bringing your child in for their first dentist appointment. Our Grapevine TX dentist office is very child friendly and our staff is here to help make your child’s first visit to our office a positive experience.

During the first visit, we will go through the following checklist, explaining each step to you and your child as we go:

-Review your child’s medical and dental history.

-Gently examine your child’s teeth and gums to check growth and development, oral hygiene, injuries, cavities or other problems.

-Clean the teeth if necessary and provide suggestions about daily care.

-Evaluate and advise you about your child’s fluoride exposure because too much or too little can lead to problems.

-Talk about feeding practices and give dietary counseling.

-Assess your child’s risk of developing tooth decay.

-Give information regarding oral development, teething, pacifier or finger/thumb sucking habits and injury prevention.

-Plan for any needed treatment or the next check-up.

The tips below help make a great first dental visit:

-Schedule a morning appointment if possible. Children tend to be more rested and cooperative in the mornings.

-If you get nervous about visiting the dentist, try not to pass on these worries to your child.

-Do not bribe your child or use a dental visit as a punishment or threat.

-Try to make your child’s dental visit a fun outing.

Starting visits at an early age helps your child build good dental habits from the beginning. Plus, preventive dental care can save time, money and teeth. We are looking forward to getting to know you and your child at their first dental visit. Smiles by Martin is a family dentist providing quality dental care to patients in Grapevine. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin today, call 817-481-1041.

Keller Teeth Whitening 

“Pearly whites” is a common expression used by people all over the nation to describe someone’s teeth. But for many, “pearly whites” is just an expression, not a reality. Many people in Keller, TX experience discoloration of the teeth, whether it be yellowing, staining, or other darkening. If you are a patient in Keller, TX experiencing tooth discoloration, you may have some questions or concerns, want more information about benefits of whitening, or just want to learn more about treatment options. That is why Smiles by Martin is here to provide more information about tooth whitening in Keller, TX.

Tooth yellowing, staining, or discoloration has many causes. Some of which you may not even be aware pose a risk. Discoloration is caused by:

-Food/drink (Ex: tea, coffee, wine, apples, potatoes, etc.)

-Improper cleaning or lack of oral hygiene (Ex: infrequent brushing, no flossing, etc.)

-Decay

-Tobacco use (Smoking and chewing)

-Disease or medication (some antibiotics, such as tetracycline, can cause this)

-Fluorosis (excessive ingestion of fluoride)

Fortunately, tooth discoloration has many solutions as well. When you visit Smiles by Martin’s Keller, TX office, the team will meet with you to discuss your goals. Together, you will put together a plan that will help you achieve that brighter, whiter, smile without breaking your habits, routines, or bank account! Dr. Martin offers whitening in Keller through many different approaches. These include either an in-office treatment or at home self-treatment. Both options are safe, proven, and effective, with one goal in mind – helping you to eliminate discoloration and feel more confident in your shining white smile. Additionally, the whitening treatments range in price to help you find just the right fit for you.

Still, some people in Keller, TX are hesitant about whitening treatments. There are many myths out there about the harm that whitening can do to enamel. Dr. Martin ensures that all whitening treatments offered at his Keller, TX office are safe and successful, so there is no reason to worry. Additionally, Smiles by Martin encourages whitening for many reasons. According to a study conducted by Align Technology, the makers of Invisalign, “nearly one third of Americans (29%) say the first aspect of someone’s face they typically notice is his or her teeth.” That same study also found that 57% of Americans would rather have a nice smile than clear skin. If you are one of those Americans, wait no more!

A bright, pearly white smile can finally be your own. If you have suffered from discolored, yellowed, or stained teeth, it may be time to whiten your teeth in Keller, TX. Dr. Martin and his team are here to answer all your questions, debunk your concerns, and provide more information about available teeth whitening treatment options for you. Contact Smiles by Martin to schedule an appointment. We can’t wait to hear from you and help you get on the road to true “pearly whites.”

With Memorial Day weekend right around the corner Dr. Greg Martin of Smiles by Martin in the Grapevine, TX area wants his patients to be aware of 5 barbecue foods/drinks that can stain and damage teeth:

1. BBQ sauce and other dark sauces. What’s a BBQ without BBQ sauce? However, Dr. Martin warns that sauces that are dark, sticky and hot, stick to and stain teeth. Dr. Martin recommends rinsing after eating anything with BBQ sauce if you can’t brush.

2. Corn on the cob. Corn is healthy right? Corn can get stuck in teeth, and this can force teeth to separate. To keep this from happening, Dr. Martin suggests that you floss the corn out from between your teeth as soon as you can.

3. Citrusy drinks. These drinks have a lot of acid in them that wear away enamel if left to sit. Teeth can also change color and even shape if the acid is left to cause erosion. Moreover, these drinks dry out the mouth. This is a problem because it prevents saliva from doing its job. Brushing or rinsing can remove most of the acid and stimulate saliva.

4. Popsicles and slushies. When it is hot people reach for popsicles and slushies as an icy cold treat. Dr. Martin notes however that any food/drink that stains your tongue will also stain your teeth. Always brush after eating a popsicle and/or drinking a slushy.

5. S’mores. For those planning on having a campfire during a Memorial Day party and cooking up some S’mores, Dr. Martin explains that S’mores are sticky and contain sugar which provides a double threat to your teeth. Brush your teeth as soon as you can after eating s’mores.

If you or someone you know is interested in brightening their smile Dr. Martin offers TWO teeth whitening systems! Simply contact Dr. Martin at 817.481.1041, or stop by  when and if you are in the Grapevine, TX area. Have a fun and safe Memorial Day weekend, and remember, your Memorial Day weekend plans should not include staining or damaging your teeth.

Many see how Invisalign® can make a big difference in people’s appearance and self-esteem, but the cost of Invisalign® may seem out of reach for their budget. Dr. Greg Martin of Smiles by Martin in the Roanoke, TX area believes that patients should think of their smile as an investment in their future. It’s how you greet the world, and it’s the first thing people notice about you.

Think of this investment in the same way you would invest in a suit, or a posh haircut at a fancy salon. The only difference is that a fantastic smile never goes out of style. A benefit of straightening your teeth with Invisalign® at Dr. Martin’s office is that he works with his patients on payment options that fit their budget and timeline. He also takes the time to talk with his patients about different treatment options that’ll help them achieve their “dream smile.” This makes the experience more personalized.

If you or someone you know is interested in clear braces with Invisalign®, contact Dr. Martin at 817.481.1041 to schedule an initial consultation, or mention it the next time you visit Smiles by Martin.

Are you thinking about getting cosmetic dentistry with Invisalign®, or already have Invisalign®? If so, we at Smiles by Martin in Grapevine, TX warn that teeth whitening should be done only AFTER treatment with Invisalign® is over. Here’s why: whitening teeth before Invisalign® while the teeth are crooked will make it difficult to distribute the whitening gel evenly on the teeth.

Moreover, did you know that certain foods whiten your smile? If you believe that your teeth aren’t as white as you’d like them to be Dr. Martin recommends eating your way to a whiter smile! Over time, eating crunchy fruits and vegetables can help keep your teeth white in which they trigger your mouth to make saliva which washes away food particles so they can’t stain teeth. For example, strawberries have an enzyme that acts like natural bleach, and broccoli has minerals that form a film on teeth so pigments from other foods won’t stain them.

When your Invisalign® treatment comes to an end Dr. Martin will thoroughly CLEAN your teeth and most likely recommend sticking to your Invisalign®-friendly diet for a little while longer. If you have any questions or concerns about Invisalign® or your oral hygiene please contact Dr. Martin at 817.481.1041, or stop by Smiles by Martin when and if you are in the Grapevine, TX area. Keep smiling!

The everyday Invisalign® wearer in Grapevine, TX looks forward to the end of treatment where they can see their beautiful, unhindered smile! But for some, white spots appear on their teeth. These white spots are known as demineralization. Some patients question if the plastic covering their teeth is drying out their mouth and causing white spots because there’s no saliva to remineralize the teeth, but demineralization can happen to anyone, even people who don’t wear braces.

Demineralization occurs when food is left on the teeth to interact with bacteria (otherwise known as plaque). This causes acid to form and this acid is what eats away at the calcium and phosphate of the teeth causing white spots or demineralization. Noteworthy, these spots can be sensitive and can lead to cavities. Invisalign® is good for trapping foods and liquids which is one of the reasons why consuming anything other than water requires the removal of your aligners.

Here at Smiles by Martin we work hard to establish good oral hygiene with all our patients. Dr. Greg Martin offers these tips to Invisalign® wearers in Grapevine, TX to help minimize white spots:

— Brush your teeth thoroughly after eating (this is also a good time to clean your Invisalign® aligners)

— Floss once a day

— Use a fluoride rinse daily

— Limit sugary sodas and juices

Remember to brush thoroughly and often, and keep up with your visits to Smiles by Martin. Do that and you’ll have the best smile in Grapevine, TX! And if you have any questions about Invisalign® or your oral hygiene please feel free to contact us at 817.481.1041.

Oral Care Regimen for Invisalign® Wearers

A good oral care regimen for Invisalign® wearers requires fluoride. Fluoride strengthens our teeth and helps us maintain good oral health and Dr. Greg Martin of Smiles by Martin in Grapevine, TX encourages his patients to maintain some type of fluoride intake, especially if they have Invisalign®. Together, drinking water that contains fluoride, and using a toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride will really make a difference in your oral health.

Nonetheless, Dr. Martin notes that more people drink bottled water rather than tap — These people may be missing out on this important ingredient. Did you know that unlike a number of the ever-more-popular bottled water brands, many townships add fluoride to their local water source? If you are unsure if your preferred brand(s) of bottled water contains fluoride Dr. Martin provides a list of fluoridated bottled water below:

1. Alhambra

2. Arrowhead

3. Belmont Springs

4. Crystal Rock

5. Crystal Springs

6. Deer Park

7. Diamond Springs

8. Hinckley Springs

9. Ice Mountain

10. Kandiyohi

11. Kentwood Springs

12. Mayer Bros.

13. Mount Olympus

14. Nursery Water

15. Ozarka

16. Poland Spring

17. Pure Flo

18. Puritan Springs

19. Shenandoah

20. Sierra Springs

21. Sparkletts

22. Zephyrhills

If your preferred brand(s) of bottled water isn’t listed above here’s 22 others to choose from and to add to your oral care regimen. If you have any questions or concerns about your Invisalign® and/or your oral health please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Martin at 817.481.1041 or to visit Smiles by Martin if and when you are in the Grapevine, TX area.

Caring for your smile does not stop when your Invisalign® treatment ends. Retention is a KEY component of teeth straightening, and Dr. Greg Martin and his team at Smiles by Martin in Grapevine, TX, understands that many people do not realize the great importance of wearing retainers. He warns that not wearing a retainer will cause teeth to shift overtime.

If shifting occurs contact us at 817.481.1041 immediately! Maintaining your beautiful new smile requires wearing a retainer as directed. It is extremely disappointing to both the patient and the doctor when teeth move back to their original position as a result of no or poor retainer wear. If movements are minor, retainers may be able to regain correction, but if the relapse or shifting is too severe retreatment may be necessary. Dr. Martin is here to help with any problems.

Note that like Invisalign®, retainers are the tightest in the first few days after delivery. Dr. Martin encourages patients to wear their retainer fulltime for a fixed amount of time, followed by INDEFINITE nightwear for the rest of their life. He also warns that because of its removable nature it may be tempting to not wear your retainer as instructed and/or easy to misplace your appliance. Keep in mind that your retainer will help you maintain your gorgeous smile for a lifetime!

For some, looking for a dental practice in the Grapevine, TX area can be a tough decision for there are many practices in the area offering the same services that we do here at Smiles by Martin. We also understand that you may need to make sure that Smiles by Martin is the right practice for you before scheduling an appointment with Dr. Greg Martin, so here’s a few things that set us apart from other practices in the area:

1. When looking for a dentist one should reach out to friends, colleagues and people whose recommendation you trust. Patients compliment us all the time, and patients who are referred to us say our reputation in the community is what brings people in! Stop by Smiles by Martin when and if you are in the Grapevine, TX area to experience the great customer service provided here for yourself.

2. Financing treatment is a concern for many patients and most insurance companies have a strict list of providers that are in your coverage network. Smiles by Martin works with several insurance providers and offers affordable payment plans, even for popular treatments like Invisalign®!

3. It’s always encouraged to look up an oral doctor’s credentials, i.e., their degrees and training before you make your first appointment. Visit our website to learn about Dr. Martin’s educational and professional success!

Does that narrow your decision? Contact Dr. Martin TODAY at 817.481.1041. You won’t regret it!