Johns Family Dentistry

Dental implants are a fantastic way to replace missing teeth and improve your smile. However, it’s important that you do everything you can to maintain your implants and keep them in great condition. Knowing some dental hygiene tips for implant patients will help you keep your new teeth looking great for a long, long time.

Flossing

Flossing should be a part of your everyday life, especially if you have dental implants. Floss twice a day to make sure your teeth are getting the cleaning and care they need. This will ensure that you don’t get any infections in and around the site of the implant.

Regular Cleanings

While you can do a lot of your dental hygiene at home, there is nothing quite like having your teeth cleaned by a professional. Be sure to stay up to date with your regular cleanings and visit a dental hygienist on your regular schedule. This way, you can get thorough cleanings without worrying about problems with your dental implant.

Antimicrobial Mouthwash

Using an antimicrobial mouthwash is one of the best dental hygiene tips you can follow. In some cases, your dentist will recommend a certain mouthwash and give you a schedule for using it. Following their directions will help you keep your smile sparkling and avoid any issues down the line.

Need More Dental Hygiene Tips in Puyallup?

If you want the best care for your teeth, make an appointment with Johns Family and Implant Dentistry. We can walk you through the process so you know exactly what to expect. You can also count on our dental practice for a wide variety of other services, including comprehensive and restorative options. Whatever your needs, we’re here to help! Contact us today for insurance coverage information or to schedule a consultation.

Most of us can tell when it is time to replace worn shoes. It is easy to know if you need to get new batteries or a light bulb. Yet how often should you replace your toothbrush? It turns out, not many people know how to recognize the signs that it is time to get a new brush.

Your toothbrush is essential to maintaining healthy teeth and serves as a key tool in preventing cavities and decay. Unfortunately, a toothbrush isn’t made to last forever, and after frequent use, the bristles begin to fray and become a breeding ground for bacteria. That’s why the American Dental Association recommends that you replace your toothbrush every three months.

Of course, there are some situations that may compel you to get a new toothbrush more frequently. Here are signs that it is time to toss your existing toothbrush and get a new one.

Your bristles are worn. Take a look at the bristles of your toothbrush. Are they frayed or bent? Do they no longer stand straight? Research shows that worn bristles do not clean plaque and other debris from your teeth as effectively as the bristles of a new toothbrush. Additionally, if your toothbrush’s bristles are consistently curved or mashed, it is likely a sign that you are brushing your teeth too hard. Over time, rigorous brushing can damage your tooth enamel.
You have been sick. When you come down with an illness, your toothbrush comes into contact with all of the germs and bacteria in your mouth. It is always a good idea to replace your old toothbrush after you have been sick to avoid reintroducing the germs into your mouth and contaminating other members of your household who store their toothbrushes near yours.
You use a toothbrush storage container. While travel containers can be useful during a trip, they can cause more harm than good. These closed containers create a warm, moist environment for bacteria to thrive on your toothbrush. As a general rule, if you travel and use a storage container, replace your toothbrush once returning home.

Caring for Your Toothbrush

Whether you use an electric or manual toothbrush, you will need to store it properly between uses. By taking care of your toothbrush month after month, you can extend its life and effectiveness. Here’s how:

Rinse your toothbrush with water after every use to rid the bristles of any toothpaste or debris.

After you have rinsed your toothbrush, store it in an upright position. This allows it to air-dry and prevents the growth of bacteria caused by excess moisture.

Store toothbrushes separately from other members in your household. By preventing the bristles from touching one another, you can avoid cross-contamination of germs.

Bottomline: Replacing your toothbrush is easier and less costly than having to replace damaged teeth due to decay or infection. If you have questions about when you should get a new toothbrush or how to care for it, contact our office today!

Oral hygiene is important for overall health. Brushing and flossing are essential parts of the oral health routine. Most people do not consider flossing as important as brushing. The fact is that flossing removes the plaque that builds up between the teeth, which helps prevent gum disease and cavities. Many people wonder whether it is normal for gums to bleed when flossing. The simple answer is that it’s not.

Understanding Bleeding Gums

Gums bleed for different reasons. While the condition may not be a severe medical issue, it is something that requires attention. Healthy gums do not bleed and should not be ignored as they may be a symptom of an underlying problem. If you just started flossing or do not floss regularly or correctly, you may notice some bleeding. This should not cause you to stop flossing. With regular and correct flossing, the bleeding should stop.

If gum bleeding continues for more than 10 days, book a dental appointment. The same is true if you have a family history of gum disease. Here are some reasons gums bleed when flossing.

Gum Disease

The primary cause of bleeding during flossing is plaque buildup. Ineffective oral hygiene leads to the accumulation of plaque between the teeth and along the gum line, which causes gingivitis. This is a condition characterized by sore and inflamed gums. One of the earliest symptoms of gingivitis is gums bleeding after flossing.

Vitamin Deficiency

Your bleeding gums may indicate that you lack vital vitamins in your body. A little-known symptom of vitamin deficiency is bleeding gums during flossing. Lacking minerals and vitamins such as niacin or vitamin C can lead to inflamed, sore, and bleeding gums. These deficits can also cause gingivitis.

Incorrect Flossing

Another reason gums bleed is poor flossing techniques. An effective tooth cleaning routine does not involve vigorous flossing and brushing. Aggressive teeth cleaning can damage your delicate gum tissue. Using a brush with hard bristles or the wrong dental floss can do more harm than good.

Pregnancy Gingivitis

Almost 50 percent of pregnant women suffer from gum disease, and several women end up losing teeth during pregnancy. Pregnancy gingivitis is prevalent and characterized by sore and bleeding gums. Women need to enhance their oral hygiene when they are pregnant.

Bleeding Disorders

If you have bleeding gums but do not have gingivitis, it may be due to a bleeding disorder such as leukemia, scurvy, or vitamin K deficiency. The bleeding may also be caused by hormone changes or using blood thinners. It is important to consult a dentist or doctor to determine the cause of the bleeding.

Bleeding when you floss can be a sign that you are not taking care of your gums. Plaque lodged between your teeth is a major cause of bleeding because it is difficult to remove using a brush. It is important to floss every day to get rid of the plaque because your gums provide vital support for your teeth.

To learn more about the benefits of flossing & proper dental care, contact Johns Family and Implant Dentistry, in Puyallup, WA at (253) 848-3723. 

Have you ever felt self-conscious about your smile? You’re not alone. Many people experience insecurities about their teeth, but cosmetic dentistry can be a significant game-changer. In this blog, we’ll dive into how Johns Family and Implant Dentistry in Puyallup, WA can help you regain your confidence with a radiant smile.

The Power Of A Confident Smile
A confident smile can transform your life in ways you might not have imagined. It goes beyond mere aesthetics; it influences how you see yourself and how others perceive you. Cosmetic dentistry in Miami can address issues such as discolored, chipped, or misaligned teeth, thereby enhancing your smile. An improved smile often leads to boosted self-esteem, making you feel more at ease in social situations, professional settings, and in your personal interactions.

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures At Johns Family and Implant Dentistry
At Johns Family and Implant Dentistry, we offer a wide range of cosmetic dentistry procedures, each tailored to meet your specific needs. Zoom teeth whitening can rejuvenate your smile, bringing back the brightness that might have faded over time. Veneers offer a complete makeover for your teeth, covering imperfections and giving you the smile you’ve always desired. For those missing teeth, dental implants provide a durable, natural-looking solution. And if straighter teeth are your goal, Invisalign aligners offer an effective, discreet way to achieve this. Our procedures are not just about improving the appearance of your smile; they’re about enhancing your overall confidence.

The Transformative Effects Of Cosmetic Dentistry
The impact of cosmetic dentistry on your daily life can be profound and far-reaching. With a renewed smile, you may find yourself engaging more openly with others, smiling and laughing more freely, and embracing life with newfound vigor. It’s not just about looking better; it’s about feeling better. In the workplace, a confident smile can enhance your professional image, making you appear more approachable and confident. In your personal life, it can improve your social interactions and even positively influence your mental health by reducing anxiety and improving your self-image.

Why Johns Family and Implant Dentistry Stands Out For Cosmetic Dentistry
Choosing the right dental practice for your cosmetic dentistry needs is essential. Johns Family and Implant Dentistry, with its team of highly skilled dental professionals, including Dr. David Johns, are committed to excellence in patient care. We use cutting-edge technology and customize each treatment plan to fit your individual needs, ensuring that you achieve the best possible outcome. Our team understands that each patient’s journey is unique, and we dedicate ourselves to making your experience with us comfortable, satisfying, and transformative.

Embracing A New Chapter With A Radiant Smile
Embarking on a journey to enhance your smile is a step towards a more confident and fulfilling life. At Johns Family and Implant Dentistry, we understand the importance of a radiant smile and are ready to support you through every step of your cosmetic dentistry journey. Whether you’re considering teeth whitening, veneers, or dental implants, our experienced team is here to provide expert guidance and care.

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Don’t let insecurities about your smile hold you back from enjoying life to its fullest. Contact Johns Family and Implant Dentistry today at (253) 848-3723 or request an appointment online to start your journey towards a more confident and radiant you. Together, we can unlock the power of your smile and open the doors to new opportunities and experiences.

If you’re experiencing unexplained tooth pain, you’re probably wondering if you have a cavity. While any number of things can cause a toothache, it is one of the most common signs of a cavity and should be treated by your dentist in Puyallup promptly. However, besides a toothache, there are other signs and symptoms that a cavity may be present.

Symptoms of a Cavity

Any kind of tooth pain can certainly be alarming, and it’s always wise to see your dentist if this pain persists. A toothache may be a telltale sign of a cavity, and the earlier it’s treated, usually, with a filling, the easier treatment can be. If it’s left alone, a small cavity can quickly become large and may require advanced treatment such as a root canal, a dental crown, or even a tooth extraction. Here are some of the other symptoms of a cavity besides tooth pain.

Sensitivity
Many people have sensitive teeth, and tooth sensitivity may not necessarily be a sign of a cavity. However, if sensitivity is new, it’s worth a visit to Johns Family and Implant Dentistry. Cavities can cause increased sensitivity when eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet.

Discoloration
Our teeth can become darker in color over time thanks to any number of things, including what we eat, drink, and our habits. But when it comes to cavities it’s important to look out for any new areas of discoloration. A cavity can first show signs as a small white dot or even a brown, gray, or black spot on a tooth.

Pitting
In their early stages, cavities may not be able to be seen without the help of dental x-rays or by Dr. David Johns. However, when a cavity progresses and becomes larger, you may notice a pit or a hole in your tooth. You may also be able to feel these indentations with your tongue.

Preventing Cavities
Cavities are incredibly common in both children and adults. In fact, the CDC estimates that 90% of Americans over 20 years old have had at least one cavity in their lifetime. So while anyone can get a cavity, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of developing cavities.

Take great care of your teeth by brushing them twice a day for two minutes each time.
Don’t forget to floss at least once a day to remove bacteria from in between your teeth.
Drink plenty of water every day to keep your mouth hydrated and able to wash away bacteria.
Avoid eating a diet high in sugar, acid, and carbohydrates.
Visit your Johns Family and Implant Dentistry at least every six months for routine checkups and cleanings.
Just because cavities are common doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t take precautions to try to prevent one from forming. Of course, if you do think you have a cavity, we recommend scheduling an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to get it treated quickly.

You have a choice of more than just dental floss to clean between your teeth. There are now hundreds of products on the market for inter-proximal cleaning, ranging from wooden sticks to inter-proximal brushes, and now even oral irrigation devices also known as water flossers (or Water Piks.)

Clinical studies of the Water Pik have found that the water flosser is 51% more effective for reducing gingivitis, twice as effective at reducing gingival bleeding, and 29% more effective at removing plaque. The Waterpik can give you healthier teeth and gums when being used for just a minute per day.

What is a Water Flosser or Water Pik?

A water flosser is an oral health appliance designed for dental care at home: consider it a ‘power washer’ for your gums.

Although sizes and features vary, all water flossers include:

Motor with pump
Water reservoir
Special tips for specific cleaning needs
The motor and pump cause a stream of pressurized, pulsating water to flow from the reservoir through the tip and into the mouth.

The targeted stream of water removes plaque, food particles, and bacteria in a way that’s more effective, more comfortable, and easier than traditional string floss. The pulsating action also stimulates gum tissue for added health benefits.

Why Choose a Water Flosser?

If you don’t like string floss, don’t floss often, or find string floss hard to use, a water flosser can be the answer.

Many people find water flossing easier and more pleasant than using string floss, and they may floss more often as a result.
Gum disease prevention and treatment is another reason to use a water flosser. Waterpik®Water Flossers are clinically proven to reduce gingivitis, remove plaque, and improve gum health.
Water flossers are especially useful for cleaning braces and other orthodontics, as well as cleaning bridges, crowns, and dental implants.
Water flossers are helpful for people with dexterity issues, such as arthritis, who find string flossing difficult.  

What About Toothbrushing?

For daily home care, we recommend:

Brushing your teeth 2x a day for 2 minutes
Flossing once a day to clean between your teeth
Although water flossing reaches areas that tooth brushing can’t, it is not a replacement for brushing your teeth. Rather, it is an alternative to string floss, interdental brushes, or floss threaders to remove plaque and debris that brushing leaves behind. There will also be some patients for whom we recommend using regular dental floss in addition to water flossing, but we like to see every patient using a Water Pik, if possible.

Is Water Flossing Messy?

Compared to string floss, water flossing is easier and doesn’t require you to put your hands in your mouth or deal with used string floss.

The correct technique is they key. Unlike string floss, you don’t need to look in the mirror or hold your mouth open wide.

To use a water flosser, place the flosser tip in your mouth, close your lips most of the way, and lean over the sink. Then turn the power on. As you floss along the gumline and between your teeth, allow the water to empty from your mouth into the sink.

Essential takeaway: flossing is designed to prevent bacterial changes that lead to gum disease. Gum disease has been linked to heart conditions, diabetes, and infection. If regular flossing isn’t getting the results you’re looking for, a water flosser might be the best option for you. Let’s talk about this during your next appointment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call the dental office of Puyallup/South Hill, Johns Family and Implant Dentistry at 253-848-3723.

Toothaches are no joke, and a throbbing pain often signifies a deeper problem. One common culprit is an infected tooth pulp, the soft tissue core containing nerves and blood vessels. Root canals address this issue by removing the infected pulp, cleaning the root canals, and sealing the tooth. But a natural question arises: how long do teeth with root canals last?

The answer, like many things in dentistry, isn’t a simple one-size-fits-all. Several factors influence the lifespan of a root canal-treated tooth:

Quality of the Root Canal Procedure: A skilled dentist using advanced techniques and proper sterilization protocols increases the success rate and longevity of the treatment.

Restorative Work After Root Canal: Following a root canal, the tooth becomes more brittle. A permanent restoration, such as a filling or crown, protects the tooth structure and prevents future fractures. Teeth with crowns generally last longer than those with just fillings.

Oral Hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups is crucial for preventing new infections and ensuring the long-term health of the treated tooth.

Location of the Tooth: Front teeth typically experience less stress than back molars used for chewing. Therefore, front teeth with root canals may last longer than molars.

Overall Oral Health: Existing gum disease or other oral health issues can compromise the health of the treated tooth and surrounding bone.

The Lifespan Spectrum:
Studies suggest that, on average, teeth with root canals can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years with proper care. However, some factors can significantly improve this timeframe:

Crowns: Crowns offer superior protection and can extend the lifespan of a root canal-treated tooth to 20 years or even a lifetime with proper care.

Exceptional Oral Hygiene: Meticulous oral hygiene practices can significantly increase the lifespan of a treated tooth.

Regular Dental Checkups: Regular dental checkups allow dentists to identify and address any potential issues early on, promoting the longevity of the root canal.

Extending the Life of Your Root Canal:
Following these tips can help you maximize the lifespan of your root canal-treated tooth:

Maintain excellent oral hygiene. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and attending scheduled dental cleanings are essential.

Get a crown. Discuss the benefits of a crown with your dentist to protect the treated tooth and enhance its longevity.

Avoid using the treated tooth for hard or sticky foods. This can minimize the risk of chipping or fracturing the tooth.

See your dentist regularly. Routine checkups allow for early detection and treatment of any potential problems. Give us a call at Johns Family and Implant Dentistry at 253-848-3723.

Conclusion:
Root canals are a valuable tool for saving teeth and preserving your smile. While the lifespan of a treated tooth can vary, with proper care and follow-up, you can expect your root canal to last for many years, potentially even a lifetime. If you have a tooth causing you pain, consult your dentist to determine if a root canal is the right option for you. Remember, early intervention and proper care are key to maximizing the success and longevity of your root canal treatment.

Taking Care of Your Smile in Puyallup

Did you know that smiling can greatly improve your mental and physical health? Studies show that people who smile are seen to be more confident and approachable than those who don’t. The simple act of smiling can also boost your mental health and your physical well-being. The best way to be sure that you feel confident enough to smile is to take great care of yours. Coming to Premier Dental of Puyallup to receive treatment from an experienced dentist in Puyallup will help you when it comes to obtaining and maintain a beautiful smile that you can feel confident in.

How Smiling Makes Your Life Better

Did you know that whenever you smile, your brain produces endorphins? Endorphins are a natural chemical that boosts our moods and makes us feel happier. These naturally produced chemicals assist in reducing stress and anxiety, while also increasing a person’s feelings of being relaxed and happy. This is why many people call smiling a natural antidepressant. No matter how bad of a day that you’re having, the simple act of smiling can assist in helping you to feel better.

Recent studies have also shown that smiling can boost the immune system by causing an increased amount of white blood cells to be produced in the body. White blood cells work to fight off infections and diseases. When you have a healthy immune system, you are less likely to get sick. A healthy immune system also means you have more energy.

The Best Ways to Take Care of Your Smile

If you want to have the confidence to constantly show off your smile, then you need to take good care of it. Taking good care of your teeth and gums not only improves your confidence, but it also helps your overall physical health. Here are some ways you can take care of your smile:

1. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day

Brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes each time you brush is one of the best things you can do to keep your smile healthy. It’s best to brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste so that the food particles, plaque and bacteria that causes tooth decay and gum disease can be removed.

2. Flossing daily at a minimum

Flossing with dental floss or interdental cleaners should be done at least once per day. This often overlooked habit helps to get rid of food particles and plaque that are stuck in between the teeth and gums.

3. Using mouthwash

Using an antibacterial mouthwash is another great way to keep your smile healthy, as it kills of bacteria and keeps the breath fresh. Your mouthwash should contain fluoride so that it can also help to keep your teeth strong.

4. Eating a heathy, balanced diet

Eating a healthy diet full of the proper nutrients is another important element of maintaining your oral and physical health. Your diet should contain lots of fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. You should avoid eating foods containing high amounts of sugar.

5. Avoiding acidic and sugary drinks

Beverages like soda and sports drinks are full of sugar and are acidic. These types of drinks can wear down tooth enamel and cause tooth decay. Choose to drink water or a beverage that is low in sugar and acidity instead.

6. Quitting smoking

Smoking leads to discolored teeth, bad breath, gum disease and even oral cancer. The best thing you can do for your oral and physical health is to stop smoking.

7. Visiting your dentist in Puyallup regularly

To keep your smile as healthy as you can, it’s important that you visit your dentist on a consistent basis so that you can get checkups and cleanings. Dr. Johns, from Johns Family and Implant Dentistry in Puyallup, can diagnose and treat any dental problem you may have, as well as provide you with preventative care and advice on ways that you can boost your oral hygiene routine.

Restore Your Smile and Your Confidence

Smiling can help you bring back your self-confidence. The action of smiling sends messages to your brain that you are happy, confident and in control. These feelings increase your self-esteem and your sense of self-worth. As you can see, smiling can help you deal with life’s challenges while allowing you to maintain a positive outlook.

Consider Working with Your Dentist to Renew Your Smile

You can go to Johns Family and Implant Dentistry to receive regular dental exams and cleanings from a dentist in Puyallup. This will allow you to obtain and maintain a smile that you will be proud to show off, while also allowing your dentist to detect any potential issues while they are still in their earliest stages.

Smiling lowers stress levels, strengthens relationships, improves your immune system, increases your mental health and heightens your self-confidence. Schedule an appointment with Johns Family and Implant Dentistry so you can visit a dentist in Puyallup to help you make your smile beautiful.

Gum disease and hypertension. Yes, really. At the surface, it probably seems like these two conditions are worlds apart since your cardiovascular system and oral health operate independently of one another… or do they?

According to the World Health Organization, over one billion people suffer from hypertension. Gum disease, on the other hand, is the 11th most prevalent disease in the world making it a widespread issue in its own right. Today we’re going to explore further with our objective overview of the potential link between gum disease and hypertension.

What the Studies Show

The European Society of Cardiology is a well-known medical journal, and a recent study under their Cardiovascular Research section has brought some attention to the potential link between hypertension and gum disease.

If you want the short answer then their data showed that those who have gum disease are more likely to be hypertensive. Some doctors have suggested that this is a case of reverse causation and that hypertension actually increases the odds of periodontitis.

That being said, scientists are yet to find evidence backing up the reverse causation theory behind the published study. You may think that the results are merely due to coincidental overlap since both conditions are so common, but the numbers were adjusted to factor that in.

Cases of moderate gum disease led to an increase in the odds of developing hypertension by a factor of 22%. Severe periodontitis showed a more pronounced impact with a 49% increase in the risk of hypertension.

Dr. Eva Aguilera — the lead author of the study — stated that there was a linear relationship between the two conditions and that, as the severity of the gum disease increased, as did the risk of hypertension.

Five studies included in the meta-analysis even saw blood pressure drop closer to normal levels after the gum treatment was completed. This means that maintaining oral health can reduce your risk of hypertension and other cardiovascular problems.

Other Risks of Gum Disease

Tooth Loss

If you neglect gum disease long enough then you could start losing teeth. As our previous article covered, this can lead to higher rates of cardiovascular disease. It’s also an aesthetic issue as you lose the chance at a naturally perfect smile and need to rely on dentures to fill the gap.

Atherosclerosis

In addition to raising your blood pressure, gum disease may also cause atherosclerosis which is the narrowing and hardening of your arteries. This will exacerbate your hypertension since the blood, already at a higher pressure, will be further compressed by the thinning veins.

Alzheimer’s Disease

One study showed that a Porphyromonasgingivalis infection increases the rate at which beta-amyloid proteins are produced. These are a key part of the amyloid plaques that cause Alzheimer’s. Stay tuned for our future article on the ties between AD and oral health.

Risks of Hypertension

While the above risks of gum disease are nothing to scoff at, the dangers associated with hypertension are far more worrying. There are far too many to cover but listed below are some of the most threatening ones.

Stroke

Hypertension puts you at a significantly increased risk of stroke. This is due to the fact that high pressures can lead to a rupture in one of your blood vessels. Hypertension can even lead to blood clots which will also put you at risk of a stroke.

Heart Failure

Hypertension puts a lot of strain on your heart over the course of years or even decades since the higher blood pressure speeds up the wear and tear process. This can eventually lead to failure if left unchecked.

Dementia

Vascular dementia is a condition in which insufficient blood flow to the brain leads to impaired thinking, memory, language, and problem-solving capabilities. The end result is remarkably similar to what we see in neurodegenerative diseases despite being cardiovascular in nature.

Preventing Gum Disease

We’ve already gone over the main ways that you can keep your gums safe from peridontitis quite a few times so we’re going to summarize with three bullet points. For a more in-depth overview, check out the other posts in our blogs.

Brushing twice a day.
Flossing to remove plaque along the gumline.
Going for dental checkups twice a year to nip problems at the bud.
Preventing Hypertension

Exercise

The CDC states that people should get around 20 minutes of moderate exercise every day to minimize their risk of hypertension. Going to the gym isn’t even necessary. Brisk walking or push-ups at the office is more than enough to keep you in shape.

Diet

The DASH eating plan is the best way to ensure that the food you eat doesn’t put you in the path of hypertension and all the cardiovascular risks that go with it. It covers all areas of proper nutrition such as buying the right groceries, cooking healthy, and what to do when eating out.

Don’t Smoke

Smokers have higher blood pressures than nonsmokers, that’s a well-known fact. You shouldn’t under any circumstance start smoking unless you’re into hypertension. If you’re already smoking, read this CDC guide on quitting smoking.


Conclusion

As you can see, keeping your gums clean and well-maintained is essential to ensuring that your blood pressure remains within the normal range. Emphasizing good oral and cardiovascular health staves off countless conditions — making the effort more than worth it.

Don’t hesitate to call us at (253) 848-3723 if you have any questions about keeping your oral health in top shape — and protecting your body from cardiovascular problems in the process! Remember, healthy gums make for happier veins!

Did you know that smiling can greatly improve your mental and physical health? Studies show that people who smile are seen to be more confident and approachable than those who don’t. The simple act of smiling can also boost your mental health and your physical well-being. The best way to be sure that you feel confident enough to smile is to take great care of yours. Coming to Johns Family and Implant Dentistry to receive treatment from Dr. David Johns in Washington will help you when it comes to obtaining and maintain a beautiful smile that you can feel confident in.

How Smiling Makes Your Life Better

Did you know that whenever you smile, your brain produces endorphins? Endorphins are a natural chemical that boosts our moods and makes us feel happier. These naturally produced chemicals assist in reducing stress and anxiety, while also increasing a person’s feelings of being relaxed and happy. This is why many people call smiling a natural antidepressant. No matter how bad of a day that you’re having, the simple act of smiling can assist in helping you to feel better.

Recent studies have also shown that smiling can boost the immune system by causing an increased amount of white blood cells to be produced in the body. White blood cells work to fight off infections and diseases. When you have a healthy immune system, you are less likely to get sick. A healthy immune system also means you have more energy.

The Best Ways to Take Care of Your Smile

If you want to have the confidence to constantly show off your smile, then you need to take good care of it. Taking good care of your teeth and gums not only improves your confidence, but it also helps your overall physical health. Here are some ways you can take care of your smile:

1. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day

Brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes each time you brush is one of the best things you can do to keep your smile healthy. It’s best to brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste so that the food particles, plaque and bacteria that causes tooth decay and gum disease can be removed.

2. Flossing daily at a minimum

Flossing with dental floss or interdental cleaners should be done at least once per day. This often overlooked habit helps to get rid of food particles and plaque that are stuck in between the teeth and gums.

3. Using mouthwash

Using an antibacterial mouthwash is another great way to keep your smile healthy, as it kills of bacteria and keeps the breath fresh. Your mouthwash should contain fluoride so that it can also help to keep your teeth strong.

4. Eating a heathy, balanced diet

Eating a healthy diet full of the proper nutrients is another important element of maintaining your oral and physical health. Your diet should contain lots of fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. You should avoid eating foods containing high amounts of sugar.

5. Avoiding acidic and sugary drinks

Beverages like soda and sports drinks are full of sugar and are acidic. These types of drinks can wear down tooth enamel and cause tooth decay. Choose to drink water or a beverage that is low in sugar and acidity instead.

6. Quitting smoking

Smoking leads to discolored teeth, bad breath, gum disease and even oral cancer. The best thing you can do for your oral and physical health is to stop smoking.

7. Visiting your dentist in Washington regularly

To keep your smile as healthy as you can, it’s important that you visit your dentist on a consistent basis so that you can get checkups and cleanings. Dr. Johns at Johns Family and Implant Dentistry can diagnose and treat any dental problem you may have, as well as provide you with preventative care and advice on ways that you can boost your oral hygiene routine.

Restore Your Smile and Your Confidence

Smiling can help you bring back your self-confidence. The action of smiling sends messages to your brain that you are happy, confident and in control. These feelings increase your self-esteem and your sense of self-worth. As you can see, smiling can help you deal with life’s challenges while allowing you to maintain a positive outlook.

Consider Working with Your Dentist to Renew Your Smile

You can go to Johns Family and Implant Dentistry to receive regular dental exams and cleanings from a dentist in Washington. This will allow you to obtain and maintain a smile that you will be proud to show off, while also allowing your dentist to detect any potential issues while they are still in their earliest stages.

Smiling lowers stress levels, strengthens relationships, improves your immune system, increases your mental health and heightens your self-confidence.