At V Dental Health & Aesthetics, our passion extends beyond the walls of our office. We are deeply committed to educating our community on how to achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. That’s why we were so excited that Dr. Kyle Viloria joined WCNC/NBC’s Charlotte Today to discuss some of the most common questions we hear from patients.
Dr. V had a wonderful time sharing our expertise on everything from daily habits to the latest trends in cosmetic dentistry. It was a great opportunity to connect with our neighbors and reinforce the mission of our Charlotte dentist: providing exceptional, all-ages dental care right here in our community. Let’s dive into the topics we covered.
The Truth About Flossing: Are You Doing It Right?
We all know we should floss daily, but are you using the correct technique? Proper flossing is one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities and gum disease, removing plaque and food particles from areas your toothbrush can’t reach.
Step-by-Step Flossing Guide
The C-method ensures you clean below the gum line, where harmful bacteria often accumulate.
- Measure and Wind: Start with about 18 inches of floss. Wind most of it around one middle finger and a small amount around the other, leaving an inch or two to work with.
- Guide the Floss: Use your thumbs and forefingers to gently guide the floss between two teeth. Avoid snapping it into your gums, which can cause irritation.
- Form the C-Shape: Once the floss is between your teeth, curve it into a “C” shape against one tooth. Slide it gently into the space between the gum and the tooth.
- Clean the Surface: Rub the floss up and down against the side of the tooth, then repeat the process on the adjacent tooth before moving to the next pair.
Consistent, correct flossing is a cornerstone of the preventive care we champion for patients of all ages, from young children learning good habits to adults maintaining their long-term health. As Dr. V mentioned on the program, you can also explore a water flosser if traditional floss seems too difficult for you.
The Charcoal Toothpaste Trend: What You Need to Know
Charcoal toothpaste has gained immense popularity, with many brands claiming it offers natural whitening benefits. While it can have some effect on surface stains, it’s important to understand the full picture before making it part of your routine.
What’s Wrong with Charcoal?
What makes charcoal remove some stains is its abrasiveness. That’s also its biggest drawback. Prolonged use of charcoal toothpaste can wear down your tooth enamel. Enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth, and it does not grow back.
Weakened enamel can lead to increased sensitivity and make your teeth more susceptible to cavities. Plus, the dark particles can sometimes get lodged in fillings or cracks, creating new discoloration.
Advice from Our Charlotte Dentist
Our recommendation is to proceed with caution. We believe in using products that are proven to be both safe and effective. If you’re interested in teeth whitening, we can guide you toward professional options that deliver brilliant results without compromising your dental health.
Teeth Whitening: Options for a Brighter Smile
A bright, white smile is one of the most requested cosmetic enhancements, and for good reason. On Charlotte Today, we outlined the different teeth whitening solutions available.
At-Home Teeth Whitening
Over-the-counter strips can lead to uneven results and even gum irritation. Instead, you can opt for our Opalescence Go™ whitening trays. These apply whitening gel evenly, keeping it in direct contact with your teeth for minimal gum irritation and maximum results.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
For faster, more dramatic results, we can significantly brighten your smile with Opalesence™ Boost™ in a single appointment. The entire process is supervised by our Charlotte dentist.
All-Ages Dental Care: Who Needs What?
Dr. V was asked about what each person needs from a dentist during different life stages. At V Dental Health & Aesthetics, we provide targeted treatments for patients of all ages.
- Children: Our focus is on building healthy habits and preventing cavities. Regular checkups, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants are key to protecting their developing teeth. We also educate kids and parents on proper brushing and flossing techniques.
- Teenagers: This age group faces challenges such as braces, wisdom teeth, or an increased risk of cavities. Our care may include orthodontic evaluations, monitoring dental alignment, and promoting consistent oral hygiene practices.
- Adults: Regular cleanings, addressing tooth wear, and treatment for issues like teeth grinding are all priorities. Additionally, cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening or veneers can help adults achieve their aesthetic goals.
- Seniors: Older adults may experience tooth loss, dry mouth, or gum problems. Our emphasis for seniors is on restorative dentistry, including dentures, implants, and gum disease management, as well as routine maintenance.
How We Promote Comfort, Trust, Health, & Excellence
- Atmosphere: Cozy up with blankets and pillows, watch your comfort shows on our treatment room TVs, and breathe in calming scents (no clinical office smells here!).
- Technology: 3D scans, AI enhancements, and other advanced touches don’t just aid in diagnostics and treatment but also help you see and be a part of treatment planning.
- Transformation: We’re here through it all, whether you need small smile tweaks or full-mouth restorations. We feel your struggles and revel in your joys.
Bring Your Family to Charlotte’s Community Dentist
Our TV appearances are more than just segments; they’re a reflection of our dedication to the Charlotte community. We believe that everyone deserves access to clear, honest, and expert dental information. Whether we’re sharing tips on the news or welcoming a new family into our practice, our goal remains the same: to be your trusted partner in oral health.
Thank you for tuning in and for making us a part of your community. If you have questions about any of these topics or are ready to schedule a visit to V Dental Health & Aesthetics, contact our Charlotte dentist today. We look forward to helping you and your family smile brighter.
