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1. The Mouth-Body Connection
   The health of your gums, teeth, and mouth is intimately connected to the well-being of your entire body. Research has shown poor dental health can contribute to various chronic conditions and diseases.
   
   According to experts, poor oral health is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. Bacteria from gum infections can enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation and damage to blood vessels, leading to potential heart problems.
   
   
2. Oral Health and Diabetes
   The relationship between dental health and diabetes is another crucial aspect to look into. Individuals with diabetes are more prone to gum disease, as high blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system and make it harder to fight off infections. Conversely, gum disease can also make it challenging to control blood sugar levels, putting individuals with diabetes at a higher risk of complications.
   
   Experts say gum disease can affect insulin sensitivity, making it harder to manage blood sugar levels effectively. Therefore, maintaining good dental health is essential for individuals with diabetes to manage their condition more effectively.
   
   
3. Respiratory Health
   Poor dental hygiene can impact your respiratory health. Harmful oral bacteria can travel from the mouth to the lungs, potentially causing infections such as pneumonia and exacerbating existing respiratory conditions. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, is crucial to preventing the spread of bacteria and reducing the risk of respiratory infections.
   
   
4. Pregnancy and Oral Health
   Poor oral health during pregnancy has been linked to various complications, including gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and premature birth. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make the gums more susceptible to inflammation, leading to gingivitis and periodontal disease. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene practices can minimize the risk of these complications and promote a healthier pregnancy.

Reach Out to Pillar Dental Now!

Given the effects of poor oral health on the rest of your body, you should always practice proper dental hygiene. Our dentists at Pillar Dental can help you. Get in touch with us today to schedule a dental appointment or learn more about our services.

The post Poor Dental Hygiene: How It Affects Your Overall Health appeared first on Pillar Dental.

1. Start talking about it early: It’s important to talk to your child about their upcoming dental visit a few weeks before their appointment. This way, they’ll have time to prepare mentally and emotionally.
   
2. Discuss what will happen: Explain to your child what they can expect during their dental visit, including getting their teeth cleaned, having x-rays taken, and meeting the dentist.
   
3. Read children’s books about dental visits: Reading storybooks about dental visits can help your child understand what will happen and reduce their anxiety. Some recommended books include “The Tooth Book” by Doctor Seuss and “Brush Brush Brush” by Alicia Padron.
   
4. Play pretend dentist: Another way to help your child understand what will happen during their visit is to play pretend dentist at home. You can use a toothbrush to clean and count their teeth.
   
5. Choose your words carefully: When explaining things to your child, make sure to use age-appropriate language. Avoid using words like “needle” or “shot,” as these can be scary for them.
   
6. Don’t project your own anxiety: If you’re anxious about the dentist, try not to project that onto your child. Stay positive and encourage your child to view the visit as an adventure.
   
7. Bring a comfort item: If your child has a favorite toy or blanket, bring it along to their visit, as it can help them feel more secure and calm.
   
8. Practice breathing exercises: If your child is feeling anxious, practicing breathing exercises can help calm them down.
   
9. Arrive early: Arriving early for your appointment can help your child have time to get familiar with their surroundings and chat with the staff.
   
10.  Celebrate afterward: After the visit is over, celebrate with your child for a job well done. You can take them out for an ice cream or do other fun activities together.

Reach Out to Pillar Dental Today!

By following the tips above, you can help prepare your child for their first dental visit and make it a more positive experience for both of you. For questions or more information about dental care for kids, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly dentists at Pillar Dental.

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With so many dentists in Sioux Falls, it’s essential to think about various factors to make an informed decision. Here are some tips to help you choose the right dentist for your needs.

Tip 1: Check Their Credentials

When choosing a dentist, it’s crucial to look at their credentials. Make sure they have the qualifications and are licensed to practice in your area. You can check their website or call their office to ask questions about their education, certifications, and experience.

Tip 2: Look for Reviews and Recommendations

One effective way to find a reputable dentist is by reading reviews online. There are trusted sites that can provide valuable insights about a dentist’s reputation, customer service, and clinical abilities. You can also ask for recommendations from your friends, relatives, or primary care doctor.

Tip 3: Consider Their Location and Availability

Choosing a dentist within reasonable proximity to your home or workplace is crucial. This way, you can easily set up an appointment with them and visit their dental clinic without any inconvenience. Additionally, you should go for a dentist whose office hours fit your schedule.

Tip 4: Evaluate Their Communication Style

The dentist’s communication style is crucial to ensuring a successful and comfortable dental experience. Look for a dentist who listens to your concerns and explains procedures in a way you understand. They should also be patient, friendly, compassionate, and willing to answer your questions and address your concerns.

Tip 5: Check Their Tools or Equipment

The dental industry is continually evolving, and new technologies and techniques frequently emerge. Therefore, it’s crucial to look for a dentist who invests in the latest technology and offers a variety of treatment options. A dentist with modern tools and equipment can provide accurate and precise treatment and diagnosis.

Tip 6: Inspect Their Cleanliness and Safety Measures

Good dental care includes ensuring that the dentist’s office is clean, sterile, and free of risks. Ensure that the dentist takes infection control measures and follows safe sterilization protocols. In addition, observe whether the staff wears gloves, masks, and protective gear. A clean and safe facility can prevent the spread of germs and enhance your overall dental experience.

Get in Touch With Pillar Dental Today!

If you’re looking for a dentist in Sioux Falls, choose the ones at Pillar Dental. We can definitely assist you with your needs. Call us now at (605) 271-4422 to schedule an appointment.

The post Tips for Choosing a Dentist in Sioux Falls, SD appeared first on Pillar Dental.

Tip 1: Brush Your Teeth Properly

According to the American Dental Association or ADA, you should brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes. Position your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward your gums and move your hand gently in a circular motion to ensure that food particles, germs, or plaques are properly removed. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, too.

Tip 2: Use a Toothpaste and Mouthwash That Contains Fluoride

No matter which brand of toothpaste and mouthwash you prefer to use, ensure they contain fluoride. It can help prevent tooth decay by fighting germs or bacteria and reducing plaque buildup.

Tip 3: Floss at Least Once a Day

Your toothbrush can’t reach the spaces between your teeth where food particles can get trapped. To clean those areas, you must floss your teeth at least once daily to prevent tartar buildup that can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.

Tip 4: Avoid Smoking Cigarettes

The leading cause of oral cancer and gum disease is smoking. It can also bring about other health problems, such as diabetes and lung diseases. If you currently smoke cigarettes, reach out to your healthcare provider to ask for help on how you can quit.

Tip 5: Visit Your Dentist at Least Twice a Year

Many people only visit their dentist when they experience toothache, pain, swelling in their gums, or other discomfort in their mouth. However, experts recommend visiting your tooth doctor at least twice a year or every six months, even if you believe you have good oral health. By doing so, your dentist will be able to check potential issues and offer treatment solutions before they worsen and cause more harm to your oral health.

Reach Out to the Dentists at Pillar Dental Today!

If you have questions about the tips listed above or want to learn more ways to keep your teeth healthy, contact Pillar Dental today. Our best family dentist in Sioux Falls would be happy to assist you with your needs. Call us now to schedule an appointment.

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• Traditional Metal Braces
  

  One of the most common and effective ways to fix crooked or misaligned teeth is the use of conventional metal braces. They consist of brackets, elastics, and wires that put continuous pressure on the teeth to move them into the desired position.

  Metal braces are not removable. So, maintaining them can be a challenge. You must avoid hard, chewy, sticky foods like bagels, popcorn, chips, chewing gums, and caramel candies, as they can damage dental appliances.

• Invisalign or Clear Aligners
  

  If you’re searching for an alternative to traditional metal braces, Invisalign may be your best choice. It consists of a series of clear aligners that help straighten your teeth without metal wires or brackets.

  The clear aligners are made of smooth plastic and are removable, so you don’t have to change your diet while undergoing Invisalign treatment. It would be best to take off your aligner before eating or drinking.

• Veneers
  Dental veneers are typically made from porcelain shells that can cover teeth gaps or misalignments. They can instantly give the appearance of straight teeth as they conceal crooked, chipped, worn-down, and stained or discolored teeth.

• Dental Bonding
  This option is best for patients with only a few slightly crooked teeth. In this procedure, dentists use composite resin to make your misaligned teeth look straight. Dental bonding can also close gaps and lighten discolored teeth.

Got crooked teeth? Reach out to Pillar Dental now!

If you’re looking for a dentist who offers solutions for misaligned or crooked teeth, consider the ones at Pillar Dental. We’ve been offering cosmetic dentistry for years, so you can be sure that we can help you with your needs. Get in touch with us now at (605) 271-4422 to schedule an appointment.

You may also visit our office at 2308 S. Westlake Dr., Sioux Falls, SD. We would love to meet with you and assist you in any way we can.

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDC, almost 50% of people aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontitis. To learn more about it, here are the stages of periodontal disease:

Stage 1: Early Periodontitis

During the initial or early stage of periodontitis, the gums become more inflamed. They start to pull away from the teeth, which leads to the formation of spaces called periodontal “pockets.”

When bacteria, plaque, and food begin to collect in the periodontal pockets, the tissues that surround the teeth can get infected. The plaque also hardens to tartar, which can lead to tooth decay. People with early-stage periodontitis typically experience sore or swollen gums.

Stage 2: Moderate Periodontitis

In this stage, the patients’ gums are likely sore or tender and have receded or pulled away from their teeth. Their teeth also become loose, wiggly, and easily damaged. They can decay and deteriorate quickly.

People with moderate periodontitis may experience a foul-tasting discharge from their swollen gums. They also lose bones around their teeth.

Stage 3: Advanced or Severe Periodontitis

At this point, more bones and tissues that support or hold the teeth in place are lost. The jawbone also gets infected, and the teeth loosen, shift, and become misaligned.

Without immediate dental intervention, patients with severe periodontitis will likely have loosened teeth or have already lost some of them. They may also experience symptoms like swollen, bleeding, receding gums, deep periodontal pockets, chronic pain, and constant bad breath.

Get in Touch With Pillar Dental Immediately!

Whether you have early, moderate, or advanced periodontitis, don’t hesitate to reach out to Pillar Dental immediately for help. We have a dental hygienist who treats periodontal disease with laser therapy. Feel free to visit our office or call us at 605-271-4422 for questions or clarifications or to schedule an appointment. We’re open Mondays to Fridays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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There are different types of dental fillings available in the market today. But the most chosen ones are composite and amalgam. The question now is, which of the two is right for you? To answer this query, you should first learn more information about them.

Amalgam Fillings

Also known as silver fillings, amalgam fillings are made through a combination of different metals like mercury, silver, copper, tin, and zinc. They’ve been around for more than 150 years and are still used by dentists today.

Amalgam fillings cost less than composite. They’re also very durable and long-lasting. Silver fillings can last up to 15 years with proper care and maintenance.

Composite Fillings

Also known as tooth-colored or mercury-free fillings, composite fillings are made of plastic (resin) and ceramic compounds. They’ve been used since the 60s and are now one of the most popular options when talking about dental fillings.

Tooth-colored fillings are more aesthetically pleasing than amalgam, especially since they are designed to match the color of the patient’s teeth. They’re also durable and can last for five to seven years on average.

Amalgam Fillings Vs. Composite: Choosing the Right One for You

The right dental filling for you depends on your situation. If you want a filling that can blend with the natural color of your teeth, then composite is best for you. However, choose amalgam if you aren’t concerned about appearance and want a less expensive option.

Get in touch with Pillar Dental today for composite fillings!

If you’ve decided to get a composite filling, reach out to Pillar Dental immediately. Our dentists prefer mercury-free fillings over amalgam as they offer more benefits to our patients.

To learn more about why we only offer composite fillings to our patients, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to hear from you and assist you with your needs. You may call us at 605-271-4422 to schedule an appointment.

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As a parent, you know very well how important your children’s dental health is. But if your youngsters have dental anxiety, how can you help them cope with it and convince them to visit a dentist? To assist you, here are some tips you may want to consider:

Tip 1: Identify What Your Child Is Really Afraid Of

Before trying anything to help your kids, you should first identify what is causing their dental fear. Is it their first time seeing a dentist? If not, did they have a negative or even traumatic experience during their last visit to the dental clinic?

Sometimes, your children may feel anxious to see their dentist if you have dental fear yourself. Their anxiety might worsen if they see you get nervous whenever you bring them to a dental clinic.

Tip 2: Find Solutions to Your Child’s Dental Fear

Once you’ve identified the cause of your child’s dental fear, try to find ways to help ease your kid’s anxiety. If it’s your young one’s first time seeing a dentist, talk to them in a way they can easily understand and explain the importance of your visit to the dental clinic.

Before your appointment with the dentist, you can read dental storybooks to your kids and play “dentist” at home. Doing these might help reassure your children that visiting a dentist isn’t something to be afraid of. However, if your child’s anxiety is caused by a traumatic experience, seeking the help of mental health professionals might be best for them.

Tip 3: Look for the Right Dentist and Dental Clinic

Finding the right dentist for your children can help ease their dental anxiety. Choose a dentist with years of experience handling kids with such conditions. Find a dental clinic with a child-friendly environment and with a staff that won’t only treat your children as patients but as friends or family, too.

Choose Pillar Dental for your children’s dental needs!

If you’re looking for a dental clinic that knows how to handle children with dental anxiety, Pillar Dental might be the right one for you. Expect that our dentists and staff will do everything they can to make sure that your kids are as comfortable as possible when they’re in our care. Contact us now to set up an appointment with our friendly dentist.

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