Category: Blog

How Important Is Preventative Dentistry for Your Oral Health?

Oral health is one of the critical indications of overall health. The mouth is a gateway to the rest of your body, which means that if any problems occur, they could quickly become much more severe. This is why keeping up with your preventative dental care routine is important.

We hope to help you understand why taking care of your oral health is so important and what steps to take to ensure you are as healthy as possible.

What is Preventive Dentistry?

Preventive dentistry is the branch of dentistry that focuses on preventing oral diseases and maintaining good oral health. Preventive dentistry aims to keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong throughout life, so you don’t need to spend much time or money on dental procedures later.

Preventative dentistry is vital for people of all ages, but it’s especially crucial for children. Because their mouths are still developing, young children must receive regular dental checkups to catch any issues early. It’s also important for adults to get regular checkups to catch any problems before they become more serious—and ultimately more expensive.

Preventive Care at Home

Preventive dentistry is an integral part of your oral health. It helps you maintain the health of your teeth, gums, and smile. Most people visit their dental offices regularly to have their teeth cleaned and examined.

However, there are many things that you can do at home to prevent problems with your teeth.

1. Brushing Your Teeth

Brushing your teeth twice daily is one of the most important things you can do to prevent problems with your teeth and gums. You should brush after each meal and before bedtime. If you have braces, brush around them at least once a day to ensure they stay clean and healthy.

2. Flossing

You should floss daily to remove food particles between the teeth, leading to plaque buildup if left alone over time; this can cause tooth decay or gum disease if left untreated long enough. Flossing also helps distribute natural fluoride throughout the mouth, strengthening enamel against acid attacks from bacteria or other harmful substances that may come into contact with our teeth daily (such as coffee/tea/juice).

3. Diet and Nutrition

Dental plaque is a sticky film that forms on teeth during eating or drinking. It contains millions of bacteria that can cause decay when they produce acids that eat away at tooth enamel. Plaque can be removed with regular brushing and flossing, but when it builds up, it can harden into tartar (also called calculus). Tartar should not be confused with gingivitis, a gum disease caused by bacteria-filled pockets between the teeth and gums.

4. Regular Checkups and Cleanings

Regular checkups and cleanings are important to prevent dental problems. The dentist can remove plaque and tartar, reducing your risk of developing cavities and gum disease. A dentist can also spot early tooth decay or other oral health issues.

5. Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride helps reduce decay by strengthening tooth enamel. Still, it can only do so much if you don’t brush regularly with fluoride toothpaste or use other forms of fluoride treatment such as mouthwash or tablets (also known as fluorides).

It is crucial to have good dental hygiene if you want to prevent cavities. It is also essential to have regular dental checkups and cleanings. This way, you can catch cavities early and prevent them from becoming more serious problems.

Visit your dentist in Redmond, Woodinville, or Everett Washington, and get your teeth cleaned and checked. Eckland Family Dentistry is a family-friendly dental practice that offers a wide range of services to help you maintain your smile. Contact us now to schedule your appointment and get started on a healthy smile.

Don’t Wait: Discover the Benefits of Frequent Dental Visits

If you’re not visiting the dentist regularly, you may miss out on some key benefits that can help improve both your oral and overall health. With preventative care, early diagnosis, and regular checkups, a frequent dental visit schedule is essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy all year round.

Read on to find out why regular visits to the dentist are so important.

Reasons to Have Frequent Dental Visits

Improved Oral Health

One of the significant benefits of frequent dental visits is improved oral health. Regular checkups and cleanings help to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar, which can lead to decay, cavities, and gum disease.

During a dental visit, your dentist can detect any issues before they become serious problems, preventing further damage and costly treatments.

Early Detection of Oral Health Issues

Another significant benefit of regular dental visits is that it allows your dentist to identify any potential issues before they become more serious. With a comprehensive examination of your mouth, teeth, gums, and other areas of your oral health, your dentist can detect early signs of decay or other potential problems and treat them accordingly. This can help to reduce the risk of developing more severe issues in the future and save you time, money, and discomfort.

Prevention of Systemic Conditions

Certain systemic illnesses, such as pneumonia and diabetes, have been linked to poor oral hygiene. If undetected or untreated, these conditions can become severe and even life-threatening. Seeing a dentist frequently helps prevent such health issues by catching signs and symptoms of these illnesses as soon as possible and initiating treatment immediately.

How to Make the Most of Your Dental Visits

Ask Questions

To make the most of your dental visits, it is essential to ask questions and get as much information as you can. Create a list of questions or topics you want to discuss with your dentist.

Consider inquiring about preventive care options such as sealants or fluoride treatments, treatment options for any current oral health issues, and advice concerning lifestyle changes that can impact your oral health.

Additionally, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification regarding anything unclear during your appointment. Asking questions shows that you are engaged and willing to take responsibility for your oral health.

Follow Your Dentist’s Advice

Another way to make the most of your dental visits is by following the advice given by your dentist. In many cases, your dentist will provide you with a clear action plan. Understanding and considering all recommendations and sound advice is essential, even if it differs from what you expected.

Following your dentist’s advice will help ensure that you maintain good oral hygiene, receive the best treatment possible, and improve your oral health.

Regular dental visits can make all the difference regarding your oral health. They allow you to monitor the condition of your mouth and teeth, detect any issues early, protect your smile from the onset of serious diseases, and improve your overall well-being. Don’t wait – take advantage of the many benefits that frequent dental visits can provide to ensure a healthier and happier life.

If you start wondering, ask, “Is there any dentist near me?” Then, Eckland Family Dentistry is here for you! We provide a wide range of services, from routine checkups to more advanced treatments like root canals and tooth extractions. Our friendly staff at all of our locations including Woodinville, Redmond with Dr. Colby and Dr. Kale, as well as Everett makes your visit comfortable and informative, so book an appointment today!

The 5 Pros of Getting Teeth Whitening Done by a Dentist

A smile you’re proud of can make an immense difference in your life and self-esteem. A bright, beautiful smile can boost your confidence and give you the courage to tackle any situation. Professional teeth whitening is a great way to get the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted.

If you’re uncertain as to whether you should go ahead with teeth whitening, have a look at the information below to discover the advantages of having it done professionally by a dentist:

Advantage 1: Faster Whitening

Professionally administered teeth whitening treatments provide much faster and more dramatic results than over-the-counter treatments. Instead of expecting to see changes in your teeth over weeks, you can get a brighter smile in just an hour. Although store-bought whitening products may cost less, they provide a different level of results than professional whitening treatments do.

Waiting to get whiter teeth can take a long time, and in the end, you may not be too pleased with the outcome. Going to a professional for teeth whitening can ensure you will be happy with the result.

Advantage 2: Improved Appearance

Having a beautiful smile can be transformative. It can make you look younger and make wrinkles less noticeable. If you have the opportunity to make your smile brighter and your appearance more attractive, it’s worth considering.

Advantage 3: More Confidence

A new smile can be a major boost to your self-esteem. Having a set of teeth that you can be proud of can make you feel more confident and make you more likely to smile and show off your pearly whites. It can also give you a greater sense of self-worth, knowing that you look and feel your best.

It can be hard to feel confident when your teeth aren’t as white as you would like them to be. Thankfully, there are ways to brighten your teeth and bring back self-confidence. You don’t have to be ashamed to talk or smile anymore; instead, take advantage of the solutions available to you and make your teeth look brighter and healthier.

Advantage 4: Reliability

Getting your teeth whitened in a professional setting can ensure the treatment is safe and effective. You can be confident knowing that a dental professional uses the best products and equipment to ensure your teeth are as pristine and white as possible. In-office teeth whitening provides the utmost care and precision when it comes to getting your teeth brighter, and with a dentist’s help, you can be sure that you’ll get the best results.

Avoid putting your smile in danger; choose products that have been proven safe and effective for your teeth, and get it done by a pro.

Advantage 5: A Thorough Procedure

Professionally whitening your teeth is a surefire way to get a brighter, whiter smile. Dental practitioners have the expertise to know the most effective techniques to whiten teeth, so you can count on the results being much better than anything you could do at home.

Waiting for weeks to see a product’s results can be frustrating if you see no improvement in your teeth afterward.

Make an Appointment with Eckland Family Dentistry Today

As we grow older, our teeth naturally lose their luster and shine. We all want to have a beautiful and dazzling smile, but the yellowing of our teeth can cause us to feel self-conscious. If you’ve been looking for a way to restore that brilliant smile, our dentists in Everett, Redmond with Dr. Kale and Dr. Colby, and Woodinville are here to help. Through our professional and safe teeth whitening procedures, you can regain your confident and dazzling smile at an affordable cost. Request an appointment with a dentist in Redmond, Everett, or Woodinville Washington, by visiting our website today!

Three Tips For Your Best Smile

A new year brings about a lot of changes and what better to focus on than your smile! Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. Not only is it contagious it’s also something that increases your success and likeability amongst your peers, colleagues, and superiors. Prioritizing and enhancing your smile doesn’t have to be a challenge when you follow these three easy steps.

1) Prevent Staining

Even though your teeth are the hardest part of your body (yes, even harder than bone) they can easily be stained over time. Enjoying your coffee, wine, or soda can take a direct toll on your teeth and their appearance. The dentin or core of your teeth dim over time and heavy exposure to stain causing liquids and foods only make the staining much more prevalent. It’s important to reduce direct exposure, rinse after exposure, and brush your teeth after exposure to keep a bright white healthy smile. If you’re a smoker it comes as no surprise that your teeth can be an indicator of your habit. If you’re looking to make a change in your smile it might be time to make a change in your lifestyle and break the habit.

2) Brush Up on Your Routine

Did you know that the average person spends thirty eight days in their lifetime brushing their teeth? If you brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes you can bet you’ll meet statistic as well. It’s important to prioritize your oral hygiene routine, especially during the busy season that a new year brings. Resolutions can vary but flossing daily can certainly be one of the resolutions on your list to help optimize your smile!

3) See Your Dentist

If you’re trying to focus on your smile in the new year, add biannual dentist visits on your to do list. Dental exams help keep your teeth and gums in tip top shape while also inspecting your oral health to detect and prevent issues that can affect your smile and health. Thorough dental cleanings from dental hygienists will leave your teeth looking absolutely stunning and help your mouth stay healthy yielding the perfect smile.

Having a happy healthy smile can transcend your life in a variety of ways. Don’t sit back and think about the smile you’ve always wanted. Take action in 2023 and prioritize your smile by scheduling a dentist appointment with your local dentist at Eckland Family Dentistry. You can visit one of our four convenient locations in Washington which are Woodinville, Redmond with Dr. Kale or Dr. Colby, and Everett.

Three Key Components of Yellow Teeth and How to Conquer Them

Is there anything better than a bright white smile? We don’t think so and are sure you don’t either. Yellowing teeth is disheartening but recognizing key components can help you determine the cause, and change your habits to help restore your smile. Still concerned that your teeth may need a little extra TLC? Not to worry, schedule a teeth whitening experience with the Eckland Family Dentistry team online with ease.

Genetics

Genetics is a trait often forgot about in relation to your teeth and their color. Tooth color, and other aspects of your teeth can certainly be genetic. Therefore, if your parent(s) have slightly yellow teeth in color that chances are you may too!

Wear

As we age our enamel thins from the wear it’s put through from food, drink, chewing, and an over vigorous brush routine. It’s no surprise that with the wear over time and aging that our enamel will ultimately dim in color.

Food / Drink

The foods and drinks we consume play a direct role on our teeth and their appearance. If you’re consuming large amounts of dark liquids without a straw or rinsing afterward your enamel is taking a direct hit. The same can be said for other popular drinks and even the things we eat like red sauces, curries, and more. Be conscious in how you enjoy food/drink and keep your teeth in mind.

Having a confident smile leads to a confident you! We love helping keep your smile in tip top shape but we have to make sure you’re doing your part at home too. If you notice your teeth changing colors it’s time to change your habits, even if it’s simply moderating dark substances drank, drinking coffee with a straw, or stepping up your oral hygiene routine. Ready to feel like your smile is at its peak? Come your local dentist, Eckland Family Dentistry at one of our four convenient office locations in Woodinville, Redmond with Dr. Kale, Redmond with Dr. Colby, or Everett, Washington.

Seven Things You Didn’t Know About Your Toothbrush

Everyone knows how important consistent brushing is, but most people don’t give a second thought to their toothbrush. While their function is obvious, there’s still plenty of important information to know about your toothbrush. Here are seven interesting facts about your toothbrush you probably didn’t know.

1. Change Your Toothbrush Every Three Months

A toothbrush isn’t meant to last forever! Over time, the bristles will start to fray, especially if you’re using too much pressure. As the bristles fray, they become less and less effective, so your old, beat-up toothbrush may not be doing all the work you think it is, but swapping out your toothbrush regularly can combat this.

2. Go With Soft Bristles

Firmer bristles don’t mean a better clean! Hard bristles can cause irritation to your gums and damage your enamel, so soft bristles are your best bet. On a similar note, be sure not to press down too hard when brushing, as this can have the same effect.

3. Let Your Toothbrush Breathe

When you’re done brushing, leave your toothbrush out in the open. If placed in a small, dark, enclosed space such as a cupboard, the moisture on the toothbrush could allow mold and bacteria to grow. Gross!

4. Don’t Share Your Toothbrush

Though it seems innocuous, you shouldn’t share a toothbrush with anyone, even family members. Whatever bacteria or illnesses are in one person’s mouth will be spread to everyone else who uses the toothbrush, spreading sickness throughout the household.

5. Change Your Toothbrush After Being Sick

Though you’ll usually only need to change your toothbrush every three months, you should change it immediately after being sick. If you don’t there may be some leftover bacteria in the bristles that can elongate your sickness or cause you to get sick once more.

6. Buy ADA-Approved Products

See that gold ADA seal on the box of your toothbrush? Good! That means it’s guaranteed to last and will be effective in combating plaque and gum disease. Whenever you’re buying a new toothbrush, just look for the seal.

7. Visit the Dentist Twice a Year

Though home dental care is important, you should be sure to check in with dental professionals every six months by scheduling your appointment. Your dental team will make sure you’re taking care of your teeth, get rid of any buildup, and give you advice on how to best care for your teeth.

If you haven’t already, be sure to get in touch with a dentist near you! A dentist’s guide to brushing your teeth is one of the best things you can have to improve your dental health, so it’s important to have their advice. Book an appointment with Eckland Family Dentistry in Woodinville, Redmond with Dr. Kale or Dr. Colby, or Everett today for better dental health and a better you!

How To Combat Gum Disease with Eckland Family Dentistry

Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is a serious infection of the gums. It is a leading cause of tooth loss because without treatment the soft tissue and the bone supporting your teeth can be damaged. It can be avoided, so it’s important to know the early warning signs and what you can do to prevent it.

At Eckland Family Dentistry, we’re here for you at every stage of your oral health, and can help with early detection, prevention, and treatments to combat gum disease.

What is Gum Disease?

Most often, gum disease starts with sticky film on the teeth called plaque which contains bacteria. Plaque forms when sugars and starches from food interact with the normal bacteria that exists in your mouth. If plaque stays on your teeth it can harden to form tartar.

Tartar cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing and requires cleaning by a dentist. If they remain, plaque and tartar can lead to an irritation or inflammation of the gums known as gingivitis. If gingivitis persists, ongoing inflammation can cause gum disease.

Risk Factors for Gum Disease

If your oral hygiene is poor or you smoke or chew tobacco, you are at risk for gum disease. Other factors include genetics, hormonal changes such as pregnancy, obesity, inadequate nutrition, diabetes and other conditions or certain medications that make you more susceptible to gum disease. Also, if you have crooked teeth that are hard to clean, gum disease can start there.

Warning Signs of Gum Disease

Healthy gums should be firm and pale pink in color. If your gums are swollen or puffy or have an abnormal coloring such as red or purple, that may be a warning sign. Other signs include tenderness, bleeding, bad breath or loose teeth. If you notice the gums are receding from your teeth or you have painful chewing, these also could be early warning signs.

How To Prevent Gum Disease

The habits of good oral hygiene can help reverse and/or prevent gum disease. Brush at least two times per day and floss once. Flossing before you brush clears food particles and bacteria. If you can practice these habits, you can prevent the conditions that lead to gum disease. Ask your dentist about the best practices for healthy gums and teeth.

It’s also important to visit the dentist or dental hygienist regularly, usually every six to twelve months. Risk factors for gum disease may require you to visit your dental care team for cleaning more often.

Finding a Dentist Near Me

Finding a local Washington dentist can help you protect your teeth and gums. Eckland Family Dentistry is located in four convenient locations Woodinville, Redmond with Dr. Kale and Dr. Colby, and Everett and can help with early detection and treatment of gum disease. Take the time to put your oral health first and schedule an appointment with us!

Dental Visit FAQ

Visiting one of the Eckland Family Dentistry locations for the first time? Here are frequently asked questions for your dentist.

How often should I go to the dentist?

Don’t wait to see a dentist until you notice a physical problem with your teeth. By getting preventive treatment, you avoid the potential for greater dental health issues down the line. We recommend you visit us every six months for your routine cleaning and oral exam.

Do I need to floss my teeth?

Absolutely. Flossing diminishes the possibility of developing harmful bacteria in your mouth. It also allows you to get in the hard to reach places between the teeth that cavities love to form in. Flossing can help reduce cavity prevention, prevent halitosis, and create an overall healthier mouth!

How often do I need to floss and brush my teeth?

For a healthy smile, you should floss your teeth at least once per day and brush your teeth twice a day, morning and night. It’s important to get into a good oral hygiene routine so that it’s second nature to brush and floss since it’s an every day occurrence.

How can I prevent cavities?

To reduce bacteria and the possibility of developing cavities, aim to brush your teeth between two and three minutes for each brushing session. Be mindful of consuming too many sugary and sticky foods as well. Finally, brush your teeth and rinse your mouth after meals.

How do I fix my bleeding gums?

Inflamed, bleeding gums may be a sign of gingivitis or gum disease. If your gums are bleeding, schedule an appointment with your local dentist to determine the best treatment option for you. Additionally, other factors can be a cause. Make sure to explain to your dentist if you are on any new medications, are pregnant, or if anything major with your oral hygiene routine has changed.

What is fluoride?

Fluoride is a natural mineral found in certain foods and water. Fluoride is crucial to improving dental health because it can prevent tooth decay and possible bone loss. Using fluoride toothpaste, for instance, can better protect your tooth enamel from acid attacks due to plaque buildup.

What is the purpose of dental X-rays?

Detecting dental issues early will save you time, medical expenses, and general discomfort in the long run. Dentists need to perform X-ray exams to detect and treat possible problems in the mouth, such as:

Tooth decay
Areas of decay within existing restorations
Bone infections
Gum disease
Cysts
Tumors
Other abnormalities

Which dental services do you provide?

We are proud to offer our patients preventive care. For more information on each of our dental services, visit the corresponding page here.

What else should I ask my dentist?

Have a question for one of our dental offices in Everett, Redmond with Dr. Kale or Dr. Colby, or Woodinville that you don’t see answered? Contact your local dentist in Washington! Our team will be happy to assist you.

Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Oral Cancer and Dental Implants blog post featured Image

April is oral cancer awareness month, and it’s also the perfect time to have someone check up on your oral health.

What Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer is a term that encompasses cancer of the mouth, throat, and sinuses. These growths frequently go undetected for a long time, which allows for them to grow and spread to other parts of the body.

In many cases, this cancer is diagnosed too late. Once this cancer spreads, the five year survival rate is only 65%. Those who do survive the cancer often find themselves left with disfiguring scars from surgery, and they may have difficulty eating or drinking. The further the cancer spreads, the lower the survival rate becomes.

Who Gets Oral Cancer?

Most cases of oral cancer are diagnosed in men over the age of 50. However, everyone is capable of developing oral cancer, and everyone should get screened. Risk factors that increase your chance of developing oral cancer include:

Smoking and vaping
Excessive alcohol consumption
Poor diet
Poor oral hygiene
A family history of oral cancer
Certain strains of HPV
Poor use of sunscreen

How Can I Prevent Oral Cancer?

The best way to prevent oral cancer is to fix your habits. While family histories cannot be rewritten, you can cut risk factors out of your life. Stop smoking, practice healthy habits, and avoid excessive alcohol use.

In addition to these preventative measures, you’ll also want to consult with the experts in dentistry. Schedule a dentist appointment today! Your local dentist at Eckland Family Dentistry located in Woodinville, Redmond with Dr. Kale and Dr. Colby as well as Everett is trained to screen for the disease, and early detection is the key to survival. When the cancer is caught in its early stages, the five year survival rate is 85%, and surgical intervention is minimal.

A dental checkup is also a great chance to reevaluate your oral health. Ask your dentist about how you’re doing! We’ll be able to recommend products and methods to keep your teeth looking fresh for years to come!

Remember: screening is the best way to catch oral cancer early. The sooner it’s noticed, the easier it is to treat!

How to Choose a Cosmetic Dentist in Washington

Much like the rest of your body, your teeth play an essential role in your day-to-day life. Unlike the rest of your body, however, your teeth don’t heal or regenerate, so any damage tends to be permanent. Bad brushing habits and injuries often lead to chipped and discolored teeth, and while you can live with more minor blemishes, the effect isn’t just cosmetic.

Let’s face it: your smile can have a huge impact on how you see yourself. Though it may seem small, a crooked smile or a chipped tooth can harm your self-esteem and undermine your confidence. To take that confidence back, it’s worth investing in a cosmetic dentist. However, before committing to a treatment, you should be sure to find the right dentist for you. Here are a few things you should consider when choosing a cosmetic dentist in Washington.

Finding a Cosmetic Dentist

First of all, consider the quality of the treatment you’re receiving. While the convenience of going to a local dentist is obvious, the quality of cosmetic dentistry near you may not be on par with other offices. Remember, it’s better to undergo a quality treatment now than to spend years fixing a shoddy treatment. Do your research, read reviews, and ensure the dentist you’ve settled on can meet your standards.

Why Do You Need a Cosmetic Dentist?

It’s easy to hear the word “cosmetic” and write cosmetic dentistry off as unimportant, but this simply isn’t the case. A good cosmetic dentist can practically erase the years of wear and tear showing on your teeth, almost seeming like it wasn’t there in the first place. Not only will it restore your confidence, but it’ll also convey a sense of professionalism and cleanliness to others as well, amplifying your natural charisma. An appealing smile is just a step away with the proper dental procedure.

Scheduling an Appointment

If you’ve decided cosmetic dentistry is the right choice for you and want to entrust your treatment to Washington’s best, there’s no time like the present to schedule an appointment with Eckland Family Dentistry in one of our four convenient locations: Redmond with Dr. Kale or Dr. Colby, Everett, and Woodinville! We prioritize quality treatments and ensure that each of our patients leaves with the smile of their dreams.