Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. It doesn’t often appear in children, but it can. That’s why Stephen Ratcliff Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Arlington stresses good dental health, with regular checkups and proper dental hygiene, starting at an early age. We recommend a child’s first dental visit […]
Dental Health
The Five Stages of a Cavity
You may have heard that once tooth enamel is eroded, it’s gone forever. This is partially true, but in in this post from Stephen Ratcliff Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Arlington we explain how in the earliest stage of enamel erosion, a cavity can be reversed. Let’s describe the five stages of a cavity. Stage […]
A Root Canal Doesn’t Just Save a Tooth
When a patient comes into Stephen Ratcliff Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Arlington with long-time toothache, they are often desperate. “Just pull it!” They don’t want to suffer the pain any longer. They have written off the tooth and have recognized the reality that they will lose it. Extraction isn’t the only option When a tooth […]
Your Child’s Dental Check-up Schedule
Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry
How often should your child receive a dental check-up at Stephen Ratcliff Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Arlington? You’ve probably heard that most people need a dental check-up every six months. This is a good schedule for children as well. In some cases, however, a person should see a dentist more frequently. Know The Risk […]
Health Habits To Keep You Smiling
In this post from Stephen Ratcliff Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Arlington, we focus on behaviors that influence dental health. Of course, regular brushing and flossing are two important habits for healthy teeth, but there are many more things we can do to keep a healthy smile. Diet Do’s Do eat a nutritious diet with […]
Watch Out For Hidden Sugar
Every health-conscious parent knows that sugar is the number one cause of cavities. Plenty of us adults also nibble on too many sweets. Sugar is in a lot of processed food, and at Stephen Ratcliff Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Arlington, we want you to be aware of hidden sugar and its risks to your […]
What Is General Dentistry?
If you explored our website before landing on this blog, you have may noticed the term “general dentistry” on the menu, along with other services. “General dentistry” may sound bland, but it isn’t. At Stephen Ratcliff Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Arlington, it’s your assurance that we can diagnose and treat your most essential issues, […]
When Brushing Is A Battle: Tips For Arlington Parents
Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry
Good dental hygiene should start early in life. When kids are really small, it’s up to parents to make sure their teeth are brushed at least once a day. As they get older and assert their independence, daily brushing can be more difficult. At Stephen Ratcliff Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Arlington, we have some […]
Should You Get Your Child a Water Flosser?
Today, we’re discussing the water flosser, also known as interdental cleaner, interdental irrigator, or water jet. A water irrigation tool oscillates a stream of water through a small, targeted tube to shoot out fragments of food and plaque from around and between teeth. To use it, you place the tube into your mouth, turn it […]
Tell Your Dentist Which Prescription Meds You Are Taking
It’s standard practice for healthcare providers to find out which medications their patients are taking. Our patients sometimes wonder why we ask them about prescription medications before their dental procedure. Here’s why: Some drugs—prescription or over-the-counter—can impact oral health or dental treatment. Bleeding Issues Heparin/warfarin and other anticoagulants can result in abnormal […]
