How can we help you?
We know you have many choices when it comes to finding a dentist in the Humble, TX area and that finding the practice that is right for you is a big decision.
If you have questions, take a moment to read through our most common ones below. If your question is not listed here, you are welcome to give us a call or email us to get the answers you need.
We are honored that you are considering Humble Dentistry for your family's dental needs. Dr. Appel and our entire team look forward to welcoming you.
Dental Exams & Teeth Cleanings
Though cavities typically develop on the back teeth (molars), they can also form on the front teeth (incisors). Cavities that develop on the front teeth often occur due to trauma, lack of appropriate oral care, or minor dental fractures. When we consume sugary foods and drinks, our natural oral bacteria snacks on that sugar too. However, cavities thrive on sugar and convert the sugar into acid; the acid then nibbles on your healthy teeth, creating tiny holes called cavities or tooth decay.
If not treated appropriately, cavities can spread to neighboring teeth or lead to more serious health issues such as tooth loss and periodontal disease. Regardless of where your cavities may reside, our team at Humble Dentistry is equipped to treat your cavities and restore your beautiful smile back to its former glory.
Cavities can affect your dental health and your appearance, but Dr. Appel and our team at Humble Dentistry can help. We provide tooth-colored fillings available in natural and white shades to match your smile as closely as possible. Our high-quality dental fillings can help repair the damage caused by cavities as well as assist in cavity prevention. As far as other preventive measures are concerned, we highly recommend doing the following to remove plaque and hinder cavities from forming:
- Floss your teeth daily
- Brush your teeth daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash
- Get professional teeth cleanings twice per year
For dental fillings or teeth cleanings, contact your family dentist in Humble, TX at (281) 446-2361 to schedule an appointment. We proudly provide dental care not just to the Humble community, but also to Atascocita, Kingwood, Porter, Houston, and surrounding areas.
Protect Your Teeth
Sealants are a thin protective layer for the grooves in the chewing surface of teeth. They act like a hard hat and protect the grooves from food, acid, and harmful bacteria that may lead to cavities. The can work well for both children and adults on permanent teeth that do not already have fillings, crowns, or cavities.
Change Your Toothbrush Every 3 Months
Contrary to popular belief, you should not wait until your next 6 month dental checkup to change your toothbrush.
We recommend changing your toothbrush every 3 months or when you notice the bristles fraying. Many toothbrush manufacturers design the bristles to change color when it is time for a new brush or electric brush head. You may notice the blue or green color start to change to white on the tips of many Oral-B brushes.
Our Recommendation
We recommend that everyone brush their teeth for at least 2 minutes twice per day. Some patients may benefit from more frequent brushing especially if they currently have braces.
The foods and drinks you indulge in play an important role in your oral health and physical wellness. Our dentist recommends a healthy diet, brushing, flossing, and preventive dentistry in Humble, TX, for best results.
While some foods are obviously bad for your teeth—sugary sweets and yummy candies—it may surprise you to learn that fruit juices also contribute to cavities, enamel erosion, and tooth stains. To lower your risks for dental decay, we recommend reducing your intake of the following drinks, which are highly acidic and sugary:
- Fruit juices
- Sodas
- Sports drinks
- Gatorade
It’s equally important to reduce sugary snacks like cookies and candies.
If you do indulge, it’s crucial to brush, floss, and rinse away the debris. If sugar and acids remain on teeth, it breaks down your enamel, which promotes tooth decay.
Alternatives to sugary snacks include nuts, seeds, and carrot sticks.
To reduce stains on your teeth, avoid wines, colorful sauces, and tobacco in all forms.
Remember, healthy foods and drinks are better for your teeth and your body's health.
Schedule Your Next Teeth Cleaning in Humble, TX
If it’s time for your next dental cleaning, or if you would like more information about healthy options for your smile, schedule a consultation with your dentist in Humble, TX 77338 today. Also, ask a member of our team about the Humble Dentistry Membership Plan, which helps you get the dental care you need at a low cost.
We serve patients in all locations, including Humble, Atascocita, Kingwood, Lake Houston, Ramblewood, Moonshine Hill.
You haven’t been to the dentist in a while, or you keep putting off your next dental checkup and teeth cleaning. Maybe you don’t even remember what happens during these routine visits or why they’re so important.
We encourage you to schedule your next checkup and teeth cleaning today to maintain the health of your smile.
Why Routine Teeth Cleanings and Exams Are Vital
Routine dental visits—every six months—lower your risks for preventable conditions, such as:
- Tooth Decay
- Bad Breath
- Tooth Stains
- Tooth Infections
- Gingivitis
- Gum Disease
Gum disease is particularly concerning because it can have a negative impact on your overall health, including the heart and lungs.
Dental Cleaning and Checkup: What to Expect
Dental checkups and teeth cleanings are generally non-invasive and painless.
For your checkup, you relax in the dental chair while the dentist does a visual exam of your teeth, gums, jaws, and periodontal health. You’ll have an oral cancer screening and x-rays as needed.
During your dental cleaning in Humble, we remove stubborn tartar from your teeth and gums using specialized dental tools. Your toothbrush and floss alone are not enough!
After your checkup, the dentist discusses the findings with you and outlines all treatment options if any oral health issues are identified.
Contact Your Humble Dentist to Get Started
If you’re searching for “oral exam near me” on your phone or computer, look no further. We are pleased to welcome new patients and help you take charge of your dental health. Call (281) 446-2362 to schedule an appointment.
In general, our healthiest patients with the best oral hygiene are those that use an electric toothbrush. Good oral hygiene depends on the removal of plaque from the teeth. Plaque is the sticky yellow film that harbors bacteria and contributes to inflammation, gum disease, and tooth decay.
An electric toothbrush can be especially helpful for those with braces or other oral appliances, those who struggle with manual dexterity, or those that have very hard to reach places. We would love it if all of our patients used an electric toothbrush, which is why we have both Sonicare and Oral-B toothbrushes available in the office.
What Research Says
Don’t just take our word for it though, our recommendation is based on the best available research. In 2014, the Cochrane Group conducted a systematic review comparing manual and powered toothbrushes. They found that using an electric toothbrush resulted in a 21% reduction in plaque after 3 months of use. It also resulted in an 11% reduction in gingivitis after three months as well. That may not sound like a lot, but better removal of plaque will contribute to a healthier mouth and lower the risk for developing gum disease and tooth decay.
For more information, give our Humble Dentistry office a call today. Our dentist in Humble, TX 77338 and staff are happy to answer any questions you may have.
Preventive dentistry in Humble, TX is the foundation for healthy teeth and gums. Our dentist provides treatments, procedures, restorations, and safeguards to protect your oral health throughout the years. This is not limited to teeth cleanings and exams!
Preventive dentistry also includes:
- Sealants
- Fluoride treatments
- Custom nightguards for teeth grinding and clenching
- Custom mouthguards for sports
- Any specific treatment meant to protect your oral health
Prevention starts at home with a good oral hygiene routine. This means brushing and flossing at least twice per day and avoiding sugary drinks and snacks.
Patients who follow good oral hygiene routines have fewer cavities and less incidence of gum disease.
Unfortunately, brushing and flossing alone will not remove stubborn bacteria and plaque. For this portion of preventive dentistry, you’ll need twice-yearly cleanings with our dental hygienist—more often if you have gum disease or are prone to cavities. Our hygienist has the right tools to clear away even the most stubborn bacteria and tartar.
Beyond a good home routine and regular cleanings, it’s important to visit our top Humble, TX dentist at least twice per year for exams and x-rays. We use safe x-rays that provide high-definition images. This helps our dentist pick up on subtle oral changes between appointments.
In your dental exam, we will assess:
- Your teeth and gums
- Periodontal health, including gums and bone
- Any suspicious lesions
Contact Our Dental Office to Schedule an Exam
Schedule your next dental exam and cleaning with our Humble, TX dental office today.