curly woman flossing

How Flossing Can Improve Your Oral Health and Wellness

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While we think of brushing as the primary method of cleaning the teeth, it is important that you do not forget to also floss between your teeth. Flossing is critical to removing food particles between the teeth that can become stuck and might not be accessible with a toothbrush. At Broadway Family Dentistry of Minot, ND, Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen believe in educating patients, young and old, about the benefits of flossing their teeth and how it impacts oral health.

How does flossing improve your dental health?

Our team at Broadway Family Dentistry encourages patients to consider the benefits of flossing. Below are just a few of the advantages that flossing has:

  • Removes bacteria and food particles from hard-to-reach areas. Bacteria can contribute to periodontal disease, leading to irreversible damage to the smile. Additionally, food trapped between teeth can also cause the formation of decay or infection.
  • Prevents plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky substance that develops on the teeth and can harden into tartar and calculus. Flossing and brushing both help in preventing the buildup of plaque and keeping the surfaces of the teeth and gums clean.
  • Decreases risk of gum disease and cavities. Overall, flossing helps in the same way as brushing, as it reduces one’s chances of developing periodontitis and tooth decay.
  • Helps keep your breath fresh. Bad breath, also referred to medically as halitosis, is a condition that can be very embarrassing, especially when it becomes a chronic issue. Flossing removes food particles from between the teeth that can contribute to bad breath.

Incorporating flossing into your daily oral care routine is essential for maintaining overall oral health.

Don’t skip out on flossing! The team at Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, ND, encourages you to be prudent about brushing and flossing your teeth while maintaining routine dental visits for examinations and cleanings. If you are looking for a new dental team, call Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Broadway Family Dentistry to learn more. The practice can be reached at 701-839-1299 to request a visit with the help of our front office team.

Blond woman using laptop at home

What to expect before, during, and after dental bonding is done to a tooth

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Rejuvenating the appearance of the smile can be achieved with the help of a cosmetic dentist. At Broadway Family Dentistry in Minot, ND, men and women interested in smile enhancement will want to ask about the many aesthetic treatments available. Our team of professionals works with individuals to help them understand their options, including dental bonding.

How does dental bonding work?

Also known as composite resin bonding, dental bonding involves the placement of a composite resin material onto a tooth to act as coverage for imperfections such as gaps, chips, and cracks in the natural teeth.

What to expect before, during, and after dental bonding

When it comes to dental bonding, there are a few things you should know before, during, and after the procedure. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Before dental bonding, your dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth and prepare them for the bonding material. They will then roughen up the surface of your teeth so that the bonding material can adhere properly. Once your teeth are ready, your dentist will choose the right shade of bonding material to match your natural tooth color.
  • During dental bonding, your dentist will carefully apply the bonding material to your teeth, shaping it until it looks natural. Once they’re happy with the shape, they’ll use a special light to harden the material. After the material has cured, your dentist will make any final adjustments and polish your teeth, so they look shiny and new.
  • After dental bonding, you can expect your teeth to look great! The bonding material is very strong and durable, and it should last for many years with proper care. Just make sure to brush and floss regularly and avoid habits like biting your nails or chewing on hard objects, as this can damage the bonding material. If you take proper care of your bonded teeth, you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come.

How do I learn more?

The team at Broadway Family Dentistry works routinely with Minot, ND area patients to educate them on the benefits of dental bonding and help in determining if an individual is an appropriate candidate. Call the office today at 701-839-1299 to request a visit with Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen.

Mixed race little patient showing her perfect toothy smile while sitting dentists chair

Why might dental extractions be necessary?

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Losing teeth is the norm when we are children. The baby teeth fall out on their own to make way for the permanent adult teeth. However, there are times when a dentist may need to remove a tooth manually. At Broadway Family Dentistry, we help Minot, ND, patients understand when it is necessary to remove a tooth through dental extraction and what to expect from the procedure. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen are committed to providing simple and surgical extractions for those needing it.

What are some of the reasons why a tooth might be extracted?

Several situations may arise in which your dentist may tell you that a dental extraction procedure may be necessary. Below are a few of the more common causes of manual tooth removal:

  • Tooth decay has reached the tooth’s pulp
  • The tooth has suffered significant damage from a previous trauma
  • A dental abscess is present
  • There is extensive gum disease present
  • The patient is suffering from a life-threatening infection
  • The patient has cancer that has spread to their jaw
  • Preparation for other treatments such as dentures or orthodontia
  • Failed root canal therapy

What types of extractions can be performed?

Two types of extractions might be used to remove a tooth. First, a simple extraction is done when impaction is not a concern. A simple extraction may be performed if the tooth is above the gum line and accessible. This requires using a unique instrument to take hold of the tooth and remove it from the bone socket. A surgical extraction is performed when a tooth has been impacted and is stuck underneath the gum line. This requires the dentist to cut into the gums and remove the tooth from the jawbone. It is a more invasive procedure and does require a few days of recovery following the surgery.

How do I learn more about dental extractions?

At Broadway Family Dentistry of Minot, ND, we understand that you have many options for dental services in the community. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen are here to help you determine the best solution for your unique needs. Call 701-839-1299 to request an appointment at our facility and speak to our team about dental extractions.

How to choose the right toothpaste

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You may have noticed the wide array of products available in the local drugstore’s oral care aisle. This can be overwhelming for many patients who are not quite sure the best products for their unique dental health needs. When it comes to choosing a toothpaste, you may find yourself perplexed as to why one is a different cost than another. Choosing the right toothpaste and other oral care products is vital to ensuring a healthy smile. If you are interested in learning more about selecting items that will meet your needs, continue reading on!

What types of specialized toothpastes are available?

Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Minot, ND’s Broadway Family Dentistry work regularly with patients to help them choose a toothpaste that meets their needs. There are certain specialized toothpastes that patients might find. These include toothpastes with added benefits, including those for patients who are seeking:

  • Enamel restoration
  • Whitening toothpastes
  • Toothpastes for sensitive teeth
  • Fluoride toothpastes
  • Dry mouth toothpastes
  • Periodontal toothpaste
  • Gum sensitivity toothpastes
  • Antimicrobial toothpaste
  • Tartar control toothpaste

Each of these have specific benefits, but which one is most important for you? It is best that patients choose a toothpaste that has fluoride and is approved by the American Dental Association. You’ll know this by the seal on the toothpaste packaging. We encourage patients to talk to their dentist about the various toothpaste varieties and which one will benefit their smile the most. Patients have certain conditions such as sensitive teeth or dry mouth will often be encouraged to consider specific toothpaste varieties at the store. In some instances, the dentist may also provide a prescription toothpaste for the patient to use to get certain conditions under control at home between visits.

Are you in need of your routine dental visit?

Contact the team at Broadway Family Dentistry of Minot, ND to learn more about choosing the right toothpaste products and keeping your teeth clean between visits. The office is located at 1839 South Broadway Street, and an appointment with Dr. Stanley Hirst or Dr. Bethany Jensen can be scheduled by calling the front office team at (701) 839-1299.

Beautiful parents and their daughter are looking at camera and smiling while brushing teeth

Should I get fluoride treatments at the dental office?

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One of the most effective minerals for preventing tooth decay is that of fluoride. Fluoride is naturally present in many foods, and is added into most city water supplies. It can also be integrated into toothpastes and mouthwashes that patients can utilize each day. Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Minot, ND encourage patients to learn more about this amazing mineral and what it can do for their smiles.

What is fluoride?

This mineral is perfect for strengthening the natural tooth enamel. While patients can increase their fluoride through drinking more city water and eating foods that are high in fluoride, others may want to ask their dentist about a specialized fluoride treatment. Fluoride can be applied to the teeth with a topical solution, or may be given as a drop or gel for systemic application. Topical fluoride treatments are done right in the dental office, while patients who may benefit from systemic fluoride will take supplements as directed to strengthen the teeth that have not yet erupted through the gumline.

Who can benefit from fluoride?

Everyone benefits from fluoride, either as a topical treatment done in the dental office or through consumption or supplements. When patients think of fluoride treatments, they wrongly believe that these treatments are just for children. Adults can benefit from fluoride treatments as well to achieve better oral health and wellness.

Can I ask about fluoride?

We strongly encourage patients to ask our dentists questions when they are in for their routine visits. We want patients to be educated on how to care for their smiles. Patients who might be good candidates for fluoride treatments can find out if their dental insurance provides fluoride applications as part of their benefits. This makes it often much more affordable and attainable, even for patients on a tight budget. Patients without dental insurance can work with our front desk to discuss cost.

Call Broadway Family Dentistry today

Minot, ND patients and families interested in learning more about fluoride for stronger, healthier teeth are invited to book an appointment with Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen by calling (701) 839-1299. The office is located at 1839 South Broadway Street and is open to new patients.

How to choose a dentist in Minot, ND

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As a child, you probably went to the same dentist as your siblings and your parents. You likely didn’t have a choice in who worked on your teeth or cleaned your smile. When you’re an adult, you have the ability to make more choices, and now, you can have a say in your dental care provider! Patients of Minot, ND who are either looking to change dental practices or are new to the area and looking for a family dentist may want to take the time to prepare the right questions. It is also a good time to assess local dental providers and make a decision that fits for you.

Below are a few things to think about when choosing a new dentist in or around the community of Minot, ND:

  • Location. You know how they say, “location, location, location?” This phrase doesn’t just apply to real estate, and can also apply to service providers. Finding a dentist that is close to home, school, and work will make sure it is more convenient than ever to visit regularly.
  • Expertise and experience. You want a dentist who has years of experience in providing dental care, and the team at Broadway Family Dentistry is committed to offering dental solutions to patients over the years! Our team has combined experience in preventative and general dentistry options.
  • High praise. Word of mouth is important when it comes to finding a quality dentist that patients already know and love, and reading online reviews is another way to research a dental practice’s track record with others.
  • Financing options. Not everyone has dental insurance, and even then, not all procedures are covered. Making dental work affordable is key for many patients, so finding a dentist that offers financing options and payment plans can be vital for those on a budget who still need quality care.

Are you interested in a quality dental team in the Minot, ND area?

Look no further than Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Broadway Family Dentistry! Located at 1839 South Broadway Street, our professionals are here to assist with a wide range of dental solutions, including general, cosmetic, and restorative care for children and adults. Call the office at (701) 839-1299 to request your initial consultation appointment.    

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!

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!

How plaque and tartar affect the health of the smile

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As part of aging, many patients believe that tooth loss is commonplace over time. However, this is not the case! Our teeth are meant to last a lifetime, and with proper steps in keeping the smile healthy and free from plaque, tartar, and disease, most patients will be able to avoid the need for tooth replacement options down the road, including dentures. By knowing how plaque and tartar affect the health of the smile, many patients in the area of Minot, ND can maintain better oral health and wellness for life!

What is plaque and tartar?

Plaque is a film that can develop on the teeth and along the gum line after eating and drinking without proper brushing and flossing. It contains bacteria that can contribute to the development of cavities as well as gum disease, or “periodontal disease.” Additionally, if not brushed off of the teeth, it can harden over time and calcify. This calcification attaches to the enamel of the teeth and can only be addressed with the help of a dental professional.

What can be done for treating plaque and tartar?

First and foremost, patients are encouraged to schedule a visit to their dentist’s office. During this visit, the dental hygienist can remove as much plaque and tartar as possible to clean all the surfaces of the teeth. Our professionals will also evaluate the smile to look for cavities or indications of periodontal disease. Once the cleaning has been performed, Drs. Stanley Hirst or Bethany Jensen will evaluate the patient’s oral health and make recommendations regarding home care. This often includes brushing and flossing after every meal to keep plaque and tartar from recurring. Visiting the dentist every six month for a cleaning and evaluation also assists patients in maintaining a beautiful, healthy smile for life!

Call Broadway Family Dentistry today!

Minot, ND area patients who want to achieve healthier smiles are encouraged to book a consultation appointment with Drs. Stanley Hirst and Bethany Jensen of Broadway Family Dentistry. Our facility is located at 1839 South Broadway Street and is always accepting new patients and families seeking comprehensive care. Call (701) 839-1299 to request a visit.