Glendale AZ Dentist - Dr. Lee Ann Brady

Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry

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Call us at (623) 939-4777
18301 N 79th Ave, Suite F164, Glendale, AZ 85308
The Office of Dr. Lee Ann Brady

Choosing The Right Toothpaste

toothpaste on toothbrushChoosing the right toothpaste can be a daunting task, as the choices are varied and vast. Some of us have a hands down favorite and always use the same kind. This preference is often based on flavor, consistency or a recommendation from our dentist or hygienist. Others of us buy whatever we have a coupon for or the drugstore has on buy one get one free special. Here are some interesting facts that may help the next time you have to choose a toothpaste.

  • Cleaning your teeth is the responsibility of the toothbrush, and water is all you need to use.
  • Toothpaste freshens your breath and delivers protective chemicals like fluoride and calcium.
  • Whitening toothpastes are usually more abrasive and can contribute to damage to crowns and veneers, as well as accelerate the rate of tooth wear.
  • Sensitivity toothpastes contain a chemical called potassium Nitrate which does reduce temperature sensitivity with regular use.
  • Tarter Control and Whitening toothpastes may increase temperature sensitivity in some people.
  • Many toothpastes contain Sodium Laurel Sulfate, so if you are sensitive to this ingredient you need to read the ingredients carefully.
  • Children’s toothpastes are different, and are designed to be safe if swallowed in large amounts.

So with these facts in mind, it will be easy to narrow down the choices and still find the flavor you prefer in either gel or paste, and you’ll still have to deicde whether to buy the tube or the pump!

 

 

How Small Aesthetic Dental Repairs Can Make A Big Difference

Small aesthetic dental repairs can make a big difference

For many patients, their perceived happiness with their teeth has a lot to do with the color and symmetry of their smile. In previous posts we discussed the best options for brightening a smile to the desired level of whiteness and the significance of flossing in your oral hygiene regimen. What many patients do not realize though is how cost effective other small aesthetic dental repairs can be in providing them with their ideal smile, whatever that may look like.

A common aesthetic issue that many people have is a chipped tooth. The tiny nick may not be particularly noticeable or upsetting, but just that little bit of imperfection can be a frustrating insecurity during a job interview or a meeting with a client. Our patient Jenna had much the same feelings about two decalcification spots and a chipped corner on one of her front teeth.

Here was how her teeth looked before treatment (click to enlarge):

Desert Sun Smiles Patient Before Photo

That slight asymmetry in Jenna’s smile (in this picture: the front upper right tooth, known as the upper left central to the dentist) made her self-conscious, but Desert Sun Smiles dentist Dr. Lee Ann Brady was able to repair the issue with ease. Dr. Brady used composite filling material to fill in and even out the teeth where needed.

Here is Jenna’s perfect smile post-op:

Desert Sun Smiles Patient After Photo

Now Jenna’s smile is not only white from a recent whitening treatment at the Desert Sun Smiles office, but her front teeth are symmetrical. The entire process of repairing the spots and chip took less than an hour and can be reasonably priced depending on the number or complexity of the issue (Bonus: It will also be covered by most dental insurance plans). Cosmetic dental fixes provide bang for your buck and can leave you with a lasting sense of confidence in your smile.