Tips on Oral Hygiene

Dentist in San Clemente, CA

Most people do not enjoy going to the dentist, but a dentist in San Clemente, CA from John Redmond Orthodontics understands this, which is why we do everything possible to make our patients feel comfortable while in our office. Our entire staff, including Dr. John Redmond, also encourages patients to take preventative measures for their oral hygiene in an effort to minimize trips to the dentist.

Establishing healthy habits early on can reduce the likelihood of needing long term and costly treatments for conditions such as gum disease and root canals. Though needing braces might be inevitable thanks to one’s genes, it’s still important to keep teeth as healthy and shiny as possible. If you may be in need of an orthodontist, we encourage you to call us at John Redmond Orthodontics for an exam with our dentist in San Clemente, California.

Visit a Hygienist for Cleanings

Seeing a hygienist on a regular basis for cleaning can go a long way toward preventing dental issues. Your dental hygienist can also provide you with specific information based on your circumstances and current oral health. Following their recommendations can help prevent you from developing additional issues. Dr. John Redmond of John Redmond Orthodontics is a dentist who encourages prevention. Here are some tips that can help you avoid dental issues:

• Brush your teeth after every meal.
• Floss your teeth after every meal.
• Eat healthy meals and avoid unhealthy foods such as those containing high amounts of sugar. Diet plays an important factor in oral health. A healthy diet can help prevent problems down the road such as cavities.

Orthodontic Dental Procedures

It is important to us that you feel comfortable and at ease when undergoing treatment for dental issues with our orthodontist. Our highly trained staff will provide you with the information you need about what you can expect regarding upcoming dental procedures. If you have questions or concerns, you can feel confident that we will respond with patience and compassion. If you are in need of a San Clemente dentist in CA who provides braces, give us a call.

Payment Options

We pledge to always be clear with you regarding the cost before you undergo any procedure at John Redmond Orthodontics. We will spend time with you going over your treatment plan and discussing payment options. You put yourself at risk of developing further problems should you choose to avoid going to the dentist for care. It could result in dental problems can be even more expensive to manage. Thankfully, we can provide you with flexible payment options that you can afford.

Why Regular Dental Visits Are Important

When was the last time you visited the dentist’s office? For most people, the answer is that it’s been too long. It’s important that you don’t dismiss the importance of regular dental checkups. Problems can be quick to develop and regular checkups can ensure that you are healthy. If problems do arise, then you can have them taken care of just as quickly. Many people ignore their dental health but this isn’t a good idea. In fact, you should be seeing a San Clemente, CA dentist regularly to make sure that you are in good health. If you’re unsure of why you need to see one, here are the benefits of regular visits:

Teeth Cleanings

Teeth cleanings are crucial to the health of your mouth. If you allow your teeth to remain covered in plaque, it can lead to gum disease. This is particularly true if the patient does not have the best oral hygiene habits outside of the dentist’s office. Not only will your teeth feel cleaner after a cleaning, but you will avoid further problems due to plaque buildup.

Important Diagnosis

When you have a regular checkup, the dentist will check for a number of different conditions. He or she may be able to see signs of oral cancer, vitamin deficiencies, and even diabetes. In addition, he or she may be able to see any problems with the movement of your jaw or with your bite. When you go to the dentist regularly, he or she can spot problems and help you fix them before they become worse. The examination tells you a lot about your health and what steps you need to take to preserve it.

Treatment Plans

If you do not have regular checkups, then you may not be on the right treatment plan. Most dentists will try to come up with treatment options if you have problems with your teeth. The regular visits allow him or her to develop a plan and also to adjust it as needed. You should always be concerned about your oral health.

A regular dental checkup will help you maintain your oral health. Sometimes, problems with your teeth can develop quickly. When you have cavities, they may become worse quickly. It’s always better to understand what’s happening with your mouth, then to be in the dark about it. There are many reasons to keep up with your dental health, but to have routine visits is incredibly beneficial.

Patients Who Haven’t Visited a Dentist in Years Are Welcome to Our Clinic

Here at John Redmond Orthodontics, our team can understand that those who haven’t been to a dentist in several years, may be nervous to finally book an appointment for a cleaning and exam. We want you to know that for us, it isn’t about judgement or feeling ashamed. We know the importance of healthy oral hygiene, and hope that you feel welcomed at our practice. Whether you have been so busy with life obligations, have gone a while without insurance, or were between dentists, you can rest assured that you are in good hands with us.

It is important to a CA dentist in San Clemente that patients feel comfortable during their appointment. One way to do that is by letting you know what to expect when you come in after not having seen a dentist for a little while. Please read ahead here for more information and contact us if you have any questions!

Preparing for First Appointment Back

Arrive a few minutes early for your appointment so that we can have you complete any necessary paperwork and get you checked in. These documents help us get to know you and your dental history better. If you have insurance, please bring those details with you so we can plug your coverage into our system. Also, it is useful if we know what medications you are currently taking.

Keep in mind that if there’s been a lapse since you’ve received dental treatment, we suggest not making any crucial plans in the hour or two after your appointment. This gives you some wiggle room just in case the cleaning and exam takes longer than an average visit.

During the Cleaning and Exam

Patients who haven’t seen a dentist in quite some time, are likely to have a significant amount of plaque on their teeth. This is why your appointment may take longer than what you remember in the past, since there is probably extra buildup that we need to remove. As the plaque is removed there may be mild discomfort, but it is only temporary and your teeth will thank you for it!

If you have been neglecting flossing on a regular basis, the gums may bleed a tiny bit as well. Please know that this is entirely normal, since your gums are not used to the pressure of floss between your teeth. A San Clemente dentist can assure you that gum bleeding is to be expected if you haven’t flossed recently, and that your gums will only get stronger if you practice this daily!

As we stated above, please don’t be embarrassed if you haven’t seen a dentist in a while. It’s great that you are thinking about finally going in for an exam and cleaning. Sometimes life just gets ahead of us. Contact a dentist at John Redmond Orthodontics so we can answer any questions you have and hopefully get you into our dental chair very soon!

It is our commitment to help you feel at ease from the moment you walk in the door. After your exam, Dr. Redmond can determine if orthodontics are warranted or if a different treatment is needed. John Redmond Orthodontics is a member of a network of dentist professionals and we are happy to provide recommendations when a patient is in need of services that we do not offer. Contact John Remond Orthodontics today if you are in need of a dentist in San Clemente, CA.

A Dentist in San Clemente, CA Answers Your Questions

How Can  I Choose a Dentist?

When you are looking for a new dentist in San Clemente, CA, you might feel overwhelmed as there are many in the area. It is important to understand that you are looking for more than a professional to clean your teeth, that you are looking for a dentist who will have the interests of your oral hygiene, and overall body, in mind.

“Your dental health is an important part of your overall health”, says John Remond, “It’s important for a patient to feel comfortable with their dentist, and know they have a dental clinic they can call home.” At John Remond Orthodontics, we look out for all of our patients and ensure they are in good hands.

Having a dental clinic that feels like home instills a sense of comfort and relaxation. Patients can feel safe in knowing they always have a clinic they can turn to for any procedure or dental emergency. If you are searching for the right dentist, take these tips into consideration. They should help you to find the best dentist for you and your family.

Assess the Foundation of the Dental Clinic

Regular annual, or bi annual, visits are important to healthy oral hygiene and a bright smile. When looking for a dentist in San Clemente, CA, start with the base details that will likely work alongside your needs and lifestyle. For example, you might want to consider:

• The location of the clinic
• The clinics hours
• Is the clinic in your network or coverage?
• Does the dentist speak your language (if you are a non-native English speaker)?
• Is the dentist a member of the American Dental Association (ADA)?
• Does the dentist treat children (if you have children )?

Begin the Search

Once you start looking for a dentist, you might come across online advertisements, billboard advertisements along the highway, or ads in the newspaper. Reviews on social media sites might also interest you. Keep in mind that no two people have the exact same dental needs, and their experiences are solely their own. The following are some good ways to find a dentist in San Clemente, CA:

• Your local dental society or organisation
• The American Dentist Associations Find a Dentist tool
• A friend or relatives recommendation

If you have limited or no dental coverage, you can consult your local Health Department or a nearby dental school. Affordable, or free, dental care may be available to you. Some dentists in San Clemente, CA offer payment plans, and this might be an option to consider.

Dr. Redmond Dentist San Clemente, CA

An excellent way to maintain optimum oral hygiene health is through self-care and getting regular check ups with your dentist. Detecting problems early on is a great way to avoid future discomfort and long term health concerns such as gum disease. Dr. Redmond is a dentist in San Clemente, CA from John Redmond Orthodontics who encourages all of his patients to get regular cleanings from their family dentist. If during your regular dentist visit suggests that you may benefit from braces or other corrective methods, we will be happy to provide you with the orthodontic care that you need.

We have helped patients improve their smile since opening our practice more than two decades ago. Dr. Redmond is a dentist in San Clemente, CA who specializes in providing braces to patients but encourages patients to visit their regular dentist for routine cleanings at least twice a year. Your regular dentist may suggest that you visit them more or less often depending on your health. Know that oral hygiene can change because of age, along with your overall teeth and gum condition.

A Dental Checkup May Include: 

• Visual examination of your mouth, neck, jaw and face.
• Diagnostics (digital) as recommended by your dentist.
• A gingival pocket examination.
• Thorough professional cleaning of your teeth
• X-rays to examine causes of issues that may be located underneath the gum line.

More About the Visual Exam

Your regular dentist as well as Dr. Redmond in San Clemente, CA may utilize a camera (intraoral) with advanced lighting and magnification to observe all areas in your mouth.

Not only will your dentist check for gingivitis, decayed teeth, cavities, and cracked teeth as well as sores and growths on the roof and floor of your mouth. Many people believe a dentist is only focused on your teeth’s health. However, your dentist may examine your lips, gums, tongue and mucous membranes that run along your cheeks and gums. Additionally, your dentist in San Clemente, CA can check the lymph nodes of your jaw, head, and neck for pain, flexibility, and tenderness.

Diagnostics (Digital)

• X-rays: can detect abnormal dental conditions that may not be discovered during a visual exam. Digital x-rays provide a way to instantly detect issues.
• Gingival pocket examination: healthy gums are healthy teeth, a pocket exam is typically quick and your dentist can determine if there are any signs of periodontal disease.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Dental Hygiene

Your smile is one of the first things that others notice. Braces or other treatments from John Redmond Orthodontics can straighten your teeth and improve your smile, but orthodontia is not all that is needed for a healthy smile. Fortunately, a few simple do’s and don’ts can help you keep your teeth clean and strong.

Do Floss If you visit Dr. Redmond dentist in San Clemente, CA, accumulated plaque and tartar will likely be scraped from your teeth. However, flossing daily prevents much of this buildup. If you have braces on your teeth from John Redmond Orthodontics, it is especially important to floss regularly. You can use special orthodontic floss or a floss threader to make the process easier. Make sure to get behind the wire as well as between the teeth.

Do Use Fluoride Although Dr. Redmond dentist in San Clemente, CA, may give you an in-office fluoride treatment to strengthen your teeth, it is important to incorporate fluoride into your daily routine as well. Most toothpastes and many mouthwashes have either stannous or sodium fluoride in them. Tap water often has fluoride, but some filters remove it. For example, reverse osmosis filters remove fluoride but hollow-fiber membrane filters do not. Read the label when you buy a water filtration system to ensure it is not removing this important mineral.

Don’t Go To Bed Without Brushing Brush twice a day for at least two minutes, and make sure that one of those times is before bed. Food particles in the mouth cause the most damage overnight. This is because saliva production decreases during sleep and does not wash away the harmful acid that causes decay. Plaque also hardens overnight and turns into tartar. Use a soft-bristled brush and make sure to clean all surfaces of each tooth. Some individuals may prefer an electric toothbrush, but it is possible to keep your teeth clean and healthy with a manual brush.

Don’t Ignore Pain Dr. Redmond dentist in San Clemente, CA, can treat the causes of a variety of oral pain. However, it is important to address the problem as quickly as possible. If you are experiencing pain, make an appointment. The pain may indicate an abscess, fracture or other situation that needs to be taken care of promptly. Whether or not you are receiving orthodontic care, it is important to keep your teeth healthy by keeping them clean and seeking regular dental care.

The Key to Oral Hygiene

Dr. Redmond is a dentist in San Clemente, CA from John Redmond Orthodontics who understands the importance of sharing vital information with his patients. For instance, healthy gums and teeth can help keep food decay and plaque from accumulating in your mouth. Harmful bacteria can grow when plaque and food decay are present. These types of bacteria may lead to gum disease, bad breath, and cavities. Your teeth are not the only thing that can attract bad bacteria. During eating, food collects on your tongue and as these tiny fragments decay, a filmy white coating of bacteria can build on top of it.

Top 5 Questions To Ask Your Dentist

1. What Lifestyle Changes Can I Make to Improve My Dental Health?

Consuming certain foods and drinks can damage your teeth. In particular, foods that are acidic or sugary can break down enamel and promote tooth decay. At your appointment, Dr. Redmond dentist in San Clemente, CA, may ask you about your eating and drinking habits. If you are consuming things that are dangerous to the health of your teeth, he may recommend that you cut back or substitute healthier options. 

2. What Toothbrush Should I Use?

There are many toothbrush options available. During your visit to John Redmond Orthodontics, you should inquire which one is best for your teeth. The dentist may make a personalized recommendation based on the condition of your mouth. 

Toothbrush bristles come in soft, medium, and hard varieties. Dentists recommend soft-bristle brushes for most patients to prevent injuries to the gums or damage to the tooth enamel. It is only under rare circumstances that Dr. Redmond dentist in San Clemente, CA, may recommend medium or hard toothbrushes. 

3. How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a significant concern when it comes to your overall oral health. It can affect not only your gums but the underlying bone. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and infection that spreads throughout the body. 

Gum disease is common, affecting nearly 65 million adults in the United States, which is almost half. A dentist can not only inform you on how to prevent gum disease but also explain how to recognize the symptoms of it. 

4. What Is Causing Symptoms Such as Discoloration, Pain, or Sensitivity?

If you are experiencing oral symptoms such as sensitivity, discoloration, or pain, bring them up to your dentist during your visit to John Redmond Orthodontics. Chances are that they are not signs of anything serious, but they could be symptoms of serious oral health problems. Treatment for most dental conditions is usually easier, less expensive, and more effective if diagnosed and treated in the early stages. If the condition is allowed to progress, the damage may be irreversible, and tooth extraction may be the only option. 

5. How Often Should I Have Dental Checkups?

Your dentist should determine the frequency of your checkups based on the condition of your oral health. Most patients have dental exams twice a year. If your oral health condition is excellent, your dentist may recommend that you only have an examination once a year. Rarely, you may require checkups more often than twice a year, but your dentist can make an individualized recommendation. 

3 Ways to Maintain Great Oral Health at Home

If you are someone who cares about great overall health, you want to keep on top of your oral health and hygiene in particular. Seeing a professional like Dr. Redmond Dentist in San Clemente, CA twice a year for a dental cleaning is not enough to promote fantastic oral hygiene.

Your oral health directly affects the health of the rest of your body, including your heart and your digestive tract. Read on to find out what you can do at home in between visiting a dental group like John Redmond Orthodontics.

Floss Your Gums

Contrary to common belief, flossing is not optional. It is not just an extra step to take if you want your breath to smell especially fresh. Also, you shouldn’t remember about flossing only when you feel discomfort due to a piece of food being stuck in your teeth.

For optimal oral health, you should floss two to three times a day. If your schedule does not allow that kind of frequency, at least make time to floss once a day around each of your teeth.
Flossing properly is paramount. In order to do so, tare a lengthy bit of floss and wrap each end around the pointer finger of each hand. Keep wrapping the floss around your finger until there is a gap of just an inch or so between your fingers. Then, fit that bit of floss in between your teeth and wrap it gently around the side of each tooth. Make sure to massage your gums with the floss as you clean the tartar off of your teeth.

Brush Your Teeth

You have probably heard this since preschool: Brush your teeth regularly. Even if you schedule regular dental visits with a professional like Dr. Redmond Dentist in San Clemente, CA, you should try to brush your teeth three times a day. Brushing twice a day is the absolute minimum you can afford if you want to keep your teeth clean and healthy.

When you brush, set a timer for four to five minutes. You can use an electric toothbrush or a manual one, but as Dr. Redmond Dentist in San Clemente, CA would recommend, be sure to brush with circular strokes on each tooth. Brush the inside of each row of teeth as well as you do the outside. The teeth toward the back of your mouth tend to build up the most tartar, so pay special at tension to your molars.

Even if you take great care of your teeth at home, visiting a dentist like John Redmond Orthodontics is paramount at least twice a year. Preventive dental healthcare is the key to optimal health overall.

Feel free to call our offices to speak with a friendly member of our front desk office staff, to ask more about what a dentist at John Redmond Orthodontics can do for you. Do not hesitate to let us know if you are currently enduring any discomfort or pain, so we can do our best to get you in as soon as possible. If you or your children need an orthodontist, call Dr. Redmond dentist San Clemente, CA patients trust.

Schedule an Appointment

To ensure you find a dentist you are comfortable with, schedule a consultation with those you are most interested in. This is an opportunity to meet with the dentist and staff before you schedule an appointment for a procedure. You can always make a brief list of questions for the dentist. If you have specific questions related to your dental history, you might want to bring your dental records with you. Some questions include:

• How does the clinic handle emergency dental care after office hours?
• What are the treatment options (i.e. standard or laser)?
• Does the clinic off pain-free treatment?
• How are children treated?
• Are payment options available?

Be sure the dentist understands your needs and concerns, including those that might involve fear or anxiety. Above all,  you want a dentist in San Clemente, CA who is ready to be a part of your professional health care team. Some who can guide you, motivate you, and treat your health issues whenever they arise.

If you would like to know more about our dental clinic, and our values, please call John Redmond Orthodontics.