What are the health benefits of dental cleanings?

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Dental cleanings are a vital part of good oral health and hygiene. When the cleanings are performed regularly at a dental office, they offer an array of health benefits that patients might not even realize. Between visits, patients need to clean the teeth and gums at home with regular brushing and flossing. Even then, areas may be missed that leave patients at risk of developing gum disease or tooth decay. Our team at Broadway Family Dentistry can educate patients on the many health benefits of regular dental cleanings every six months as advised by the American Dental Association (ADA). 

How dental cleanings benefit health 

There are several reasons why patients need to have dental cleanings done, and below are just a few of the way in which they can improve one’s oral health: 

  • Gum health. It is no surprise that dental cleanings can help with the health of the soft tissues of the mouth. Conditions such as gum disease start here, so keeping the gums healthy can reduce the risk of developing periodontal disease that can damage the smile.
  • Tooth health. Keeping the teeth clean can eliminate the risk of plaque, tartar, and calculus that can contribute to cavities and, if left untreated, extensive decay that might require dental extractions. During a dental cleaning, the dental hygienist uses specialized tools to remove this from the teeth and gums and keep the smile healthy.
  • Overall health. Did you know that an infection in your mouth can contribute to an infection in your body? Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that starts in the gums and can spread throughout the mouth. The bacteria can also enter the bloodstream and carry to other parts of the body, starting unwanted inflammation. Patients with periodontal disease may be at a higher risk for strokes, heart disease, and diabetes.

Find out more about the advantages of routine dental cleanings 

A full evaluation and cleaning of the teeth is often done during recall visits to the dentist every six months. Patients should maintain these appointments to keep their smiles healthy! Call Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, ND at (701) 839-1299 to request a cleaning. The practice is located at 1839 South Broadway Street and accepts new patients and families.

Learn about the uses of dental crowns

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Even when you take the best care possible of your smile, you may be faced with conditions that can impact its health and function. This includes gaps between the teeth, fractures and breakage, and even staining and discoloration. Fortunately, with the help of a dedicated dental team in the area of Minot, ND, patients can seek solutions that fit their needs and improve their oral health. One restorative procedure often used for patients is that of the dental crown. 

What is a dental crown? 

Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen describe the dental crown as a restorative cap that covers a weak, broken, or severely damaged tooth as a way of avoiding permanent extraction. These caps are custom-made to restore the shape, size, and appearance of a tooth to protect them from further damage or removal. 

Why might I need a dental crown? 

Dental crowns are utilized in a wide range of situations, making them a versatile and popular choice for our dentists. Below are just a few reasons why a patient might have a dental crown placed: 

  • To secure dental bridges and replace missing teeth
  • To cover a dental implant to act as a tooth replacement
  • To cover teeth that have extremely large cavities impacting the structural integrity of a tooth
  • To protect broken or worn down teeth
  • To cover a tooth that has deep or permanent staining and discoloration
  • To strengthen a tooth after root canal therapy

What types of crowns are available? 

At Broadway Family Dentistry, we prefer to provide patients with dental crowns and other restorations that match the rest of the smile, so we often utilize porcelain materials to create dental crowns for our patients. However, there are other alternatives that patients can consider, including porcelain-fused-to-metal, full porcelain, or metal crowns. Talking to a dentist is the first step in learning which one is most appropriate for your needs. 

Take the next step in restoring your smile 

Whether you believe you are in need of a dental crown, or you want to know how to take care of one you already have, the team at Broadway Family Dentistry can help. Our Minot, ND area dentists, Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen, believe in providing the best dental care possible for new and established patients. Call (701) 839-1299 to request a consultation visit with our team and discuss your needs. We are conveniently located at 1839 South Broadway Street.

Using an electric toothbrush—how to care for these instruments

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If you love your electric toothbrush, you are not alone! Studies show that approximately one-third of adults utilize an electric toothbrush, which is often recommended to many patients by their dental professionals. Electric toothbrushes can assist patients who may be dealing with conditions such as periodontal disease and tooth decay, or for those who need a little extra help in removing plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, ND also encourage patients to consider using an electric toothbrush.

How can I care for my electric toothbrush?

Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen in Minot, ND recommend patients consider the advantages that electric toothbrushes provide, and will offer recommendations on how to care for them.

Below are just a few tips for ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of your electric toothbrush:

  • Remember to change the head often. Just like a regular toothbrush, an electric toothbrush had needs to be changed regularly to keep it working correctly. We recommend replacing the head of the toothbrush every three months.
  • Keep instructions in your bathroom regarding the removal and replacement of brush heads to ensure that it is done properly.
  • Store your electric toothbrush upright and in a cabinet to avoid germs being deposited on the brush from the bathroom.
  • Rinse your electric toothbrush after each use to remove toothpaste.
  • Avoid putting pressure on the teeth with an electric toothbrush. This extra pressure can not only cause the bristles to wear faster, but can also cause red and swollen gums.

Want to learn more about preventative care?

Preventing the development of problems such as periodontal disease and tooth decay can help put an end to expensive dental treatments while ensuring patients maintain proper oral health and wellness. If you are interested in speaking with our dental professionals about the steps you can take to keep your teeth and gums healthy, contact Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, ND. Call (701) 839-1299 to book an appointment at the office, conveniently located at 1839 South Broadway Street. The office accepts new and established patients and families seeking comprehensive dental care with one team of professionals.

How to save a cracked tooth

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Accidents happen. This is especially true when it come to the smile. If you have experienced a cracked or chipped tooth, do not panic! Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, ND can assist. Their practice is equipped with solutions for a wide range of dental concerns, including the restoration of broken teeth.

What to do about a cracked tooth

There are many reasons why a patient might experience a cracked tooth. They may have experienced trauma to the mouth during high-impact sports due to not wearing a mouthguard. Maybe the individual was chewing on a hard object such as ice or candy that has caused the cracked. In some situations, patients who have bruxism, which causes clenching and grinding, may also experience damage to the natural tooth. Regardless of how the tooth was impacted, it is important that patients book a consultation visit with a dentist to discuss their dental emergency. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen are dentists at Broadways Family Dentistry that can help you when problems arise.

What restorations are used for repairing a cracked or broken tooth?

There are many ways in which a dentist might restore a smile that has been impacted by damage. The severity of the damage will determine which solution is chosen. Some options may include:

  • Composite resin bonding (or “dental bonding”)
  • Dental veneers, often made of composite or porcelain
  • Dental crowns

When a tooth has been damaged, the dentist will do a series of diagnostic tests to determine how the crack affects the tooth, and then make an educated decision in repairing it accordingly.

Are you interested in care for a cracked or broken tooth?

Calling a dentist is the first step in taking care of your damaged tooth. At Broadway Family Dentistry, we are committed to providing the care needed to restore the tooth and help patients regain the confidence they have in their smiles! Call (701) 839-1299 to request an appointment at the office, located at 1839 South Broadway Street. We are open to new patients and families in the community of Minot, ND and beyond!

Excellent cosmetic dentistry services available at Broadway Family Dentistry

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Do you have gaps between your teeth or misalignment that impacts the smile’s appearance? Are you unhappy with the color, shape, or size of the teeth near the front of your smile? Have you experienced injury or trauma that has negatively affected the way your smile looks—while also reducing your self-confidence? If you have imperfections of the smile that make you feel self-conscious about how you look, it may be time to speak to a professional at Broadway Family Dentistry to ask about cosmetic dentistry solutions.

Cosmetic dentistry options

Our team is pleased to offer a range of cosmetic procedures that are used for smile enhancement. Below is just a sample of some of the treatments we provide for new and established patients at Broadway Family Dentistry:

  • Dental bonding. Dental bonding is achieved with a material called composite resin. It is shaped onto a tooth and filed down to change the appearance or fix a chip or crack in the tooth’s enamel. It can last many years with proper care.
  • Porcelain veneers. Covering imperfections can be done with the use of porcelain veneers, which are thin shells of ceramic that are bonded onto the front of a tooth to change its appearance. Veneers last longer than dental bonding and are stain-resistant.
  • Dental implants. Missing teeth can be restored with dental implants. Dental implants are titanium posts that are used as the foundation for a false tooth to restore function and appearance after tooth loss.
  • Gum contouring. Patients with a gummy smile or uneven gumline caused by periodontal disease may benefit from laser gum contouring.
  • Fillings. Areas of tooth decay can be resolved with fillings. Our team provides tooth-colored fillings achieved with composite resin materials that blend in with the smile.
  • Professional whitening. Tired of spending money on over-the-counter whitening products that fail to work? Ask about our laser whitening treatments that ensure same-day results, or consider asking about our professional take-home kits.

Ready to make a change?

Whether you have a simple imperfection in your smile or are seeking a complete smile transformation, the team at Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, ND can assist. Contact Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen for an initial evaluation and consultation appointment at (701) 839-1299, and visit them personally at 1839 S. Broadway Street. We are dedicated to helping patients feel more confident in their smiles with cosmetic dentistry solutions.

Common questions about flossing

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During your routine dental visits every six months, your dental hygienist will clean your teeth before a full evaluation. When doing so, he or she may educate you on the importance of flossing. While most patients brush their teeth daily, others avoid flossing. It can be difficult for some patients to maintain a healthy habit of flossing their teeth each day, not realizing that it can be just as important as brushing. Below are a few of the more common questions we hear from our patients at Broadway Family Dentistry regarding flossing.

What type of floss do I use?

Always use a floss that is approved by the American Dental Association and has the ADA seal on the packaging. This ensures that you are using a quality floss that will be effective at removing food particles between the teeth.

How do I floss?

Flossing is done by using floss manipulated by the fingers and moving them between the teeth. Patients should floss with the thread in a C shape to scrape the side of each tooth. Patients should never use the same section of floss twice for other areas of the teeth as it can spread bacteria throughout the smile and wedge debris back in-between other teeth.

How do I floss around restorations?

Certain restorations, such as bridges and dental implants, require special flossing techniques to ensure food particles and bacteria do not develop underneath them or between the teeth and gums. Ask your hygienist to show you the best way to work around these restorations while ensuring they get the attention they need.

Should I use a water flosser?

While traditional dental floss is the most desirable option, others with dexterity issues may find that floss sticks, water flosser, and waterpiks are viable alternatives.

Call Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen today

Broadway Family Dentistry is a family dental practice serving patients in and around the community of Minot, North Dakota. Our priority is to provide you with the best possible care to assist you in achieving and maintaining  your oral health and wellness. If you would like to learn more about ways to keep your smile healthy and find out if you are flossing properly, contact our practice today by calling (701) 839-1299. We are conveniently located at 1839 South Broadway Street and accept new patients and families into our state-of-the-art facility. 

Learn about Nightlase snoring treatment available at Broadway Family Dentistry

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If you or someone you love deals with chronic snoring, you understand how disturbing it can be to getting a good night’s rest. However, there are solutions available to help patients who snore regularly, including treatments such as the Nightlase treatment available at Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, North Dakota.

What is the Fotona Nightlase?

Patients who are considering a snoring solution that eliminates the need for an oral appliance might be interested in learning more about the Fotona Nightlase procedure. This treatment is a therapy that utilizes a non-invasive laser to improve the quality of an individual’s sleep when dealing with snoring or even obstructive sleep apnea. It not only reduces the symptoms of sleep apnea, but it can soften the sound of snoring. The laser light from the Fotona Nightlase device uses laser light to tighten the tissues in the mouth and improve collagen production for noticeable results! This procedure continues to be a popular way to reduce the sound of snoring while ensuring a deeper level of sleep that improves one’s quality of life.

How many treatments do I need?

Nightlase is not a “one and done” solution. It is recommended that patients undergo a series of three treatments to start. These treatments last approximately 20 minutes and are spread out over a 6 week period. The final results of treatment typically last anywhere from six to 12 months, though regular Nightlase treatments can be performed to maintain the results for an extended period of time. We strongly encourage patients to speak to one of our providers to determine the number of treatments needed based on the severity of their condition. We can make a recommendation after an evaluation and help you achieve your goals.

Contact Broadway Family Dentistry today

If you deal with snoring, it is time to put an end to it! Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Minot, North Dakota can assist with laser treatment called Nightlase. Call the office at (701) 839-1299 to book a consultation appointment at 1839 South Broadway Street and get started learning more about this option for you or your sleeping partner. 

Root canal therapy as a way to treat severe tooth decay

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It is normal to have bacteria present in the mouth, but certain types of bacteria can cause serious problems. This includes the development of periodontal disease and cavities. Cavities are tooth decay that burrow into the natural enamel of a tooth and can become large and extremely deep. When this happens, it can result in an access point to the dental pulp within the tooth. Bacteria can enter and result in an infection that causes a severe toothache. In situations such as this, a filling alone cannot help. Instead, patients will need to treat the severe tooth decay with root canal therapy.

What is root canal therapy?

Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen describe root canal therapy, or “endodontic treatment,” as a procedure during which the dentist will access the inner areas of the tooth canals to remove the dental pulp. After this has been completed, the area is thoroughly disinfected to ensure no bacteria remains. Then the tooth is filled with gutta percha and composite resin bonding to seal it off. In most cases, our dentist may also place a dental crown over the tooth, as it can become weak, brittle, and susceptible to damage. This gives the tooth another layer of protection and strength to avoid future problems.

What happens if root canal therapy doesn’t work?

When done correctly, root canal therapy can be extremely effective in saving a tooth. However, there are situations in which it may fail, or root canal therapy will not be enough to save the tooth due to extreme damage. This situation may call for permanent extraction and replacement of the tooth.

Save your tooth with endodontic treatment

When a tooth suffers from internal decay, it doesn’t mean that extraction is the only fix. If you want to learn more about how to treat a tooth to save it with root canal therapy, contact the team at  Broadway Family Dentistry. Minot, ND area patients can obtain the best possible care with our dentists, Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen. Call our office at (701) 839-1299 to request a visit at our office, conveniently located at 1839 South Broadway Street.

woman smiling | Root Canal Treatment

Root canals myths debunked

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In the past, the mention of “root canal” made patients anxious and worried about a painful experience. However, there are myths that surround this procedure. Root canal therapy, also called endodontic treatment, is a procedure used to address infected teeth. It is often pain that brings patients into the office for treatment, not what causes them to have a bad visit with the dental staff. At Broadway Family Dentistry, Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen provide root canal therapy in a comfortable and pain-free manner to ensure patients maintain healthy smiles!

What is root canal therapy?

This procedure is performed by our team to maintain a natural tooth in place in a situation where the tooth may otherwise be permanently extracted. The dentist performing the procedure will access the inner canals of the tooth and remove the dental pulp, which is a mass of tissues that can become infected. Once removed, the canals are disinfected and the tooth is filled with gutta percha and composite resin bonding. The final step often includes the creation and placement of a dental crown over the tooth to protect and strengthen it.

Does root canal therapy hurt?

Absolutely not! Our team utilizes local anesthetics and sedation to ensure patients are comfortable from start to finish. This is a common misconception that the procedure is painful! We want our patients to know what to expect when they have their procedure performed, so we encourage individuals to ask any questions they may have prior to undergoing their treatment. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen will ensure patients have a pain-free experience by utilizing anesthetics, sedation, and special techniques.

Why do I need root canal therapy?

Root canal therapy is the only option available for saving a tooth that has become infected. Without root canal therapy, patients will need to consider removal of the tooth and replacement options with their dental provider.

Call Broadway Family Dentistry today

Minot, ND patients considering comprehensive dental care with our team of dedicated providers are encouraged to book a consultation visit with our staff by calling (701) 839-1299. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen are located at 1839 South Broadway Street and accept new and current patients.

Six tips for a healthier smile

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A beautiful smile is the goal of most of our patients. When patients have a smile that is healthy and looks great, it can give them the self-confidence they need to interview for their dream job or approach that significant other once and for all! At Broadway Family Dentistry, Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Minot, ND provide recommendations for keeping the smile healthy and beautiful between dental recall visits:

  • Brush your teeth. Brushing the teeth after every meal with a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush is one of the best ways to keep the teeth healthy and avoid the development of periodontal disease and tooth decay.
  • Flossing. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen recommend flossing at least once a day. This removes food particles from between the teeth that can break down into acids and sugars the contribute to cavities.
  • Visit the dentist every six months. Recall appointment and routine evaluations are essential to monitoring a patient’s oral health and wellness. Conditions such as periodontal disease and cavities can be spotted early on for successful intervention.
  • Drink water. Fluoridated water is a much better choice for the smile than drinking sodas, teas, and coffees, which not only can be unhealthy for you, but can stain the natural tooth enamel. Fluoridated water helps strengthen natural tooth enamel while washing away food particles and bacteria between meals.
  • Stop smoking or chewing tobacco. Cigarettes and chewing tobacco can lead to serious staining on the teeth, while also significantly increasing your risk for conditions such as oral cancer.
  • Watch what you eat. Foods that are high in sugars, carbs, and acids can be detrimental to the smile. If you consume candy, soda, or highly-acidic fruits such as grapefruits or lemons, make sure to brush and floss the teeth immediately after.

Request a visit with Broadway Family Dentistry today!

If you reside in the area of Minot, ND and want to speak to a professional about the health of your smile, connect with Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Broadway Family Dentistry today! Call (701) 839-1299 to schedule an appointment at 1839 South Broadway Street and educate yourself further on the ways to a healthier smile!