At Lusk Family Dentistry, we do not accept dental insurance. Payment is due at the time of service. We are happy to print a insurance claim form for you to submit to your dental insurance company for reimbursement.
We will do our best to help ensure that you can afford the dental treatment you need and want. With us not accepting dental insurance we are able to cut our fees and make premium dentistry affordable.
Plaque is a soft, sticky film that builds up on your teeth and contains millions of bacteria. The bacteria in plaque can cause tooth decay and gum disease if they are not removed regularly through brushing and flossing.
Plaque that is not removed daily by brushing and flossing between teeth can eventually harden into tartar. Brushing and flossing become more difficult as tartar collects at the gum line. As the tartar, plaque, and bacteria continue to increase, the gum tissue can become red, swollen and possibly bleed when you brush your teeth. This is called gingivitis, an early stage of gum (periodontal) disease.
Preventing Plaque Buildup
Since plaque is constantly growing in your mouth, the following steps are important for keeping your teeth healthy and strong:
- Brush your teeth twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque from tooth surfaces and protect your teeth from decay.
- Flossing is an essential step in preventing gum disease. Clean between teeth daily using traditional floss or a water flosser to remove plaque from the places where your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Visit our office twice a year for professional cleanings and oral exams.
View a brief rundown of our dental services to see how we can help you clean your teeth! Call us today for more information!
Although recent news reports have questioned the benefits of cleaning between your teeth, using an interdental cleaner (like floss) is an essential part of taking care of your teeth and gums.
Along with brushing twice a day we recommend cleaning between your teeth once a day. This is important because plaque that is not removed by brushing and flossing can eventually harden into tartar. Flossing also helps prevent gum disease and cavities.
Other Flossing Options
You do not have to use traditional string floss as there are several options for cleaning between teeth. You might choose to use dental floss or another product specifically made for this purpose like a dental pick, pre-threaded flosser, tiny brushes that reach between the teeth, water flosser or toothpick.
Keep in mind that cleaning between your teeth should not be painful. If you do it too hard, you could damage the tissue between your teeth. It’s normal to feel some discomfort or even have a small amount of bleeding when you first start, but don’t give up. With daily brushing and cleaning between your teeth, that discomfort should ease within a week or two.
Be sure to schedule your regular dental cleanings and exams here at Lusk Family Dentistry.
Periodontal (gum) diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth become loose and fall out, or need to be extracted. 
The longer plaque and tartar are on teeth, the more harmful they become. The bacteria cause inflammation of the gums that is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. In gingivitis, the gums become red, swollen and can bleed easily. Gingivitis can usually be reversed with daily brushing and flossing, and regular cleaning by a dental hygienist. This form of periodontal disease does not include any loss of bone or tissue that holds teeth in place.
When gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis. In periodontitis, gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets in the gums around your teeth that become infected. If not treated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Symptoms of gum disease include:
- Bad breath that won’t go away
- Red or swollen gums
- Tender or bleeding gums
- Painful chewing
- Loose teeth
- Sensitive teeth
- Receding gums or longer appearing teeth
Any of these symptoms may be a sign of a serious problem. Call our office to schedule an appointment if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Studies have shown that people with poorly controlled diabetes are at greater risk for dental problems. They're more likely to have infections of their gums and the bones that hold their teeth in place, because diabetes can reduce the blood supply to the gums. Having a healthy supply of blood to your gums ensures that they are able to fight off infection quickly.
High blood sugar may also cause dry mouth and make gum disease worse. Less saliva allows for more tooth-decaying bacteria and plaque buildup.
Maintaining Dental Health
Regular dental visits are important. Our team will help you with any questions you may have about maintaining good habits. Practicing good oral hygiene and controlling your blood sugar levels will help your body fight off the bacteria in your mouth that cause gum disease and decay. Call our office today to schedule your next dental cleaning and exam.