Saying that you have good oral hygiene habits doesn’t necessarily mean the same thing to a dentist. Make sure that your “good” oral hygiene routine also meets your dentist’s standards.
It’s not uncommon for a patient to be shocked when their dentist tells them they have a cavity. It’s frustrating because not only do they rarely get cavities, but they brush and floss regularly. So how is it possible to get a cavity when you have good oral hygiene habits?
If you find yourself in this situation, we understand how frustrated you feel. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we value our patient relationships, making it our priority to deliver the gentle dental care that you deserve from sedation dentists in St. Louis.
Dr. Hoffman and his whole Staff are absolutely amazing we have a Special Needs Daughter 54 years old and the Compassion and Care they give her is wonderful! We would recommend them highly.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation! Our team truly appreciates your trust and is honored to provide compassionate care to every patient who visits us.
The beat dentist office ever!!!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear you had a great experience with our team. 💙
I have NEVER had a positive experience with dentist…until now!! I was mind blown how kind the staff was, not just to me but to everyone! I have debilitating anxiety when it comes to dentists because of bad previous experiences, so I was very nervous. But, all the staff, including Dr. Thom, were very gentle, kind, and understanding. They took time to listen to all my concerns and address them, helping to put me at ease. I was also amazed how professional the whole office ran and how completely reliable they were. They easily guided me through the process and everything went so smoothly, including my sedation. I have never been treated so kindly by any dental office before, I was struggling to believe I wasn’t in some kind of dream. But. They really were that nice.
My recovery from sedation and all
The dental work they did to save my tooth was amazing, not a single issue! Dr. Thom even called personally to check on me a day later.
Coming back to put my permanent crown in was the same experience. They were all so kind,
Good about explaining everything they were doing and make the experience light and dare I say…fun.
I would drive 2.5 hours again in a heartbeat to do my work here. Best dental experience I’ve ever
had hands down!!!!!!! Thank you Dr. Thom for giving my life and tooth back. I’m so excited to not be in so much excruciating pain anymore!
Response from the owner:We can’t thank you enough for your kind and heartfelt words. Our entire team is dedicated to creating a gentle, supportive, and positive experience for every patient, so it means the world to hear your visit felt that way. We’re so glad you felt cared for and comfortable throughout the process, and we truly appreciate you making the trip to see us. Thank you for trusting us—it’s an honor to care for patients like you!
Dr. Hoffmann and his team takes great care of my special needs daughter. We have been coming here for over 20 years. The staff is so kind and patient with her and explains everything to help her stay calm.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your kind words and for trusting our team for so many years. We’re honored to care for your family and appreciate the opportunity to make each visit a positive experience.
I have had the best experience with Dr Behl and her staff! I have awful dental anxiety from some past experiences and they are so kind and supportive. Rebecca is incredible to work with. I highly recommend them to everyone I know!!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your kind words! We’re happy to know you felt supported and comfortable during your visit. Our team strives to create a welcoming environment for everyone, and we truly appreciate your recommendation.
What is Good Oral Hygiene?
Saying that you have good oral hygiene habits don’t necessarily mean the same thing to a dentist. You may brush your teeth twice a day and assume that is good oral health. While brushing your teeth is obviously necessary, there is definitely more to it.
Good oral hygiene includes these five essential habits:
- Brush teeth at least twice a day
- Floss at least once a day
- Avoid sugary drinks and snacks
- Drink plenty of water with meals
- Get dental checkups twice a year
In addition to the basics, there are several other things you should do or avoid to prevent cavities. For instance, how regularly do you go to the dentist for checkups and teeth cleanings? Less than once or twice a year? How about your drinking habits? Some eating and drinking habits can have an immediate effect on our teeth. Do you sip on soda all day long at work? If so, bacteria is growing and causing damage; therefore, brushing twice a day is likely not enough.
How Do Cavities Form?
Our teeth are made up of minerals. When we eat or drink sugary or starchy foods, bacteria in the plaque on our teeth begin producing acid. This acid eats away at the enamel. When the pH in our mouths becomes more acidic, our teeth start losing the natural minerals on our teeth.
When these acids erode the enamel, a cavity, or hole, begins to form. Tooth decay can affect all layers of a tooth. It can take years for a cavity to develop in the solid outer layer of the enamel. However, a cavity forms more quickly as the middle and innermost layers of tooth decay. It can eventually erode to the root, which can cause severe pain and sensitivity.
How to Prevent Cavities
We’re glad you brush your teeth twice a day – that’s a good habit. However, if you’re lacking in some of these other areas, you may be told you have a cavity at your next dental visit. Make sure that your “good” oral hygiene routine also meets your dentist’s standards. Regular brushing, especially after meals, and flossing once a day, are the best combination. Further, avoid sugary and starchy foods that linger on your teeth and cause bacteria to multiply. Finally, get to the dentist at least twice a year for a routine checkup and cleaning.
If you continue to have issues with your teeth, you might have an underlying condition that needs to be identified and addressed. Be sure to discuss this with your dentist at your next visit!
Call Us Today
The first two board-certified Dentist Anesthesiologists in the state of Missouri.
