Look No Further for the Best Apex Family Dentist in Town!

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Hansen Dentistry: The #1 Choice for Family Dental Care in Apex, NC

Finding a trusted Apex family dentist who provides high-quality, comprehensive dental care for all ages can be challenging. Families in Apex, NC, deserve a dentist who offers expert treatment in a welcoming and comfortable environment. Hansen Dentistry, led by Dr. Rylan Hansen, is committed to delivering top-notch dental care for children, teens, and adults, making it the go-to choice for families in Apex.

Comprehensive Family Dentistry in Apex, NC

Hansen Dentistry provides comprehensive family dental care tailored to the needs of every patient. Whether you’re scheduling your child’s first dental visit, seeking routine exams, or looking for restorative treatment, our team is here to help. As an Apex family dentist, we emphasize preventive care, patient education, and minimally invasive treatments to maintain optimal oral health for your entire family.

Preventative Dental Care for Families

At Hansen Dentistry, we believe in the power of preventative dentistry to keep your family’s smiles healthy. Regular dental cleanings, exams, and digital X-rays help detect potential issues before they become serious problems. Our team educates patients on proper oral hygiene techniques, including brushing, flossing, and dietary habits that promote strong teeth and gums. As a trusted Apex family dentist, we strive to prevent cavities and gum disease before they start.

Pediatric Dentistry: Gentle Care for Your Little Ones

Children need special care to ensure their teeth develop properly. Hansen Dentistry provides gentle and friendly pediatric dentistry in Apex, NC, creating a positive dental experience for young patients. Our team specializes in:

  • Fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel
  • Dental sealants to protect against cavities
  • Early orthodontic evaluations
  • Education on proper oral hygiene for kids

Dr. Hansen and his team understand the importance of a child-friendly environment that eases anxiety and promotes lifelong oral health habits. If you’re searching for a caring and experienced Apex family dentist for your children, look no further than Hansen Dentistry.

Advanced Technology: Same-Day CEREC Crowns and Bridges

Dental technology has significantly improved, making treatments faster and more efficient. Hansen Dentistry offers same-day CEREC crowns and bridges, allowing patients to restore their smiles without multiple visits. With this cutting-edge technology, we can create and place custom ceramic restorations in a single appointment. This innovation makes us a leading Apex family dentist for those seeking modern, convenient dental solutions.

Emergency Dental Care When You Need It

Dental emergencies can happen at any time, whether it’s a severe toothache, broken tooth, or knocked-out tooth. As a reliable Apex family dentist, Hansen Dentistry offers emergency dental care to address urgent issues promptly. If you or a family member experiences sudden dental pain or trauma, our team is ready to provide fast and effective treatment to restore your smile and relieve discomfort.

Cosmetic Dentistry: Enhancing Your Family’s Smiles

A confident smile can make a world of difference. Hansen Dentistry provides cosmetic dentistry services to enhance the beauty of your smile. Whether you’re looking for professional teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, or Invisalign clear aligners, our team customizes treatment plans to achieve your desired results. As an expert Apex family dentist, Dr. Hansen ensures that cosmetic treatments are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Invisalign: The Discreet Way to Straighten Teeth

For patients who want to straighten their teeth without traditional braces, Invisalign clear aligners offer a discreet and effective solution. Hansen Dentistry provides Invisalign treatment for both teens and adults, helping patients achieve beautifully aligned smiles without metal brackets and wires. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, consult with our team to see how Invisalign can fit into your lifestyle.

Root Canal Therapy: Saving Your Natural Teeth

When decay or infection reaches the inner pulp of a tooth, a root canal may be necessary to save it. Hansen Dentistry provides gentle and effective root canal therapy to remove infection, alleviate pain, and preserve natural teeth. As an experienced Apex family dentist, Dr. Hansen ensures a comfortable experience while preventing the need for tooth extractions.

Laser Dentistry: A Minimally Invasive Approach

Hansen Dentistry incorporates laser dentistry for a range of procedures, including gum disease treatment, cavity removal, and soft tissue procedures. Laser technology allows for more precise, less invasive treatments with minimal discomfort and faster healing times. As a forward-thinking Apex family dentist, Dr. Hansen is committed to using the latest advancements to improve patient care.

A Patient-Centered Approach to Family Dental Care

At Hansen Dentistry, patient comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities. Our friendly and knowledgeable team creates a welcoming atmosphere where every patient feels at ease. We take the time to listen to concerns, explain treatment options, and provide compassionate care tailored to each individual’s needs. Whether you’re visiting for a routine check-up or a complex procedure, our goal is to make every dental experience stress-free.

Convenient Scheduling and Location in Apex, NC

We understand that families have busy schedules, which is why Hansen Dentistry offers flexible appointment times to accommodate patients of all ages. Our centrally located office in Apex, NC, provides easy access to high-quality family dental care. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, choosing Hansen Dentistry as your Apex family dentist ensures your family receives exceptional care in a convenient location.

Why Choose Hansen Dentistry as Your Apex Family Dentist?

  1. Experienced and Caring Team – Dr. Rylan Hansen and his staff are committed to providing top-tier dental care.
  2. Comprehensive Services – From preventative care to advanced restorative and cosmetic treatments, we cover all aspects of family dentistry.
  3. Advanced Technology – Utilizing CEREC same-day crowns, laser dentistry, and digital X-rays for a superior patient experience.
  4. Emergency Dental Services – Quick and efficient care when you need it most.
  5. A Welcoming Environment – A family-friendly atmosphere that makes dental visits comfortable for kids and adults alike.

Schedule an Appointment with Apex’s Leading Family Dentist

If you’re looking for a trusted Apex family dentist, Hansen Dentistry is here to provide outstanding care for your entire family. We are dedicated to maintaining and enhancing your oral health with personalized treatments and state-of-the-art technology.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment and experience the best family dental care in Apex, NC!

Fun Dental Tips for a Healthy Thanksgiving Smile in Apex, NC

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Thanksgiving is a time for family gatherings, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. However, with all the sweet treats and hearty meals on the table, it’s easy to overlook dental health during the festivities. Dr. Rylan Hansen’s family dental office in Apex, North Carolina, wants to help you enjoy Thanksgiving while keeping your smile in great shape. Here are some fun and helpful dental tips to make sure your teeth stay healthy and your smile remains bright throughout the holiday season.

1. Start with the Veggies!

While it’s tempting to go straight for the turkey, stuffing, and pies, starting your meal with vegetables can be a great strategy for your teeth. Crunchy veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers can help clean your teeth naturally by scrubbing away plaque and food particles. Vegetables also stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes acids and washes away bacteria, helping to keep your mouth cleaner and reducing the risk of cavities.

2. Limit Sugary Treats

Pumpkin pie, pecan pie, and cranberry sauce are holiday staples, but they can also be high in sugar. Sugar feeds bacteria in the mouth, which can lead to acid production and enamel erosion, increasing the risk of cavities. While you don’t have to avoid sweets entirely, try to limit your intake and opt for healthier dessert options when possible. If you can’t resist a slice of pie, consider drinking water afterward to help wash away some of the sugar left on your teeth.

3. Drink Plenty of Water

Water is your best friend during a big Thanksgiving meal. It not only helps you stay hydrated but also washes away food particles and reduces the impact of acidic and sugary foods on your teeth. Drinking water between bites and after eating can prevent food from sticking to your teeth and help maintain a balanced pH in your mouth. Plus, if you’re drinking wine or other acidic beverages, water can help minimize staining and reduce the acidity’s effect on your enamel.

4. Choose Cheese as a Smart Snack

Cheese is often a part of Thanksgiving appetizers, and it’s actually a tooth-friendly choice! Cheese is high in calcium, which helps strengthen tooth enamel, and its low acidity is less harmful to teeth. Additionally, cheese stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralize the acids produced by other foods. So, if you’re looking for a healthier snack option to enjoy while mingling, don’t hesitate to indulge in a bit of cheese.

5. Don’t Skip Your Post-Meal Brushing

After a big meal, it’s tempting to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family. However, taking a few minutes to brush your teeth can be a game-changer for your oral health. Wait about 30 minutes after your meal to allow your enamel to harden back up, then brush your teeth to remove leftover food particles and plaque. This can prevent plaque buildup and reduce the risk of cavities or gum disease. If you’re not at home, consider packing a travel toothbrush or some floss to keep your teeth clean on the go.

6. Be Mindful of Sticky Foods

Sticky foods like marshmallow-covered yams, stuffing, and caramel-based desserts can cling to your teeth and increase the risk of decay. Sticky foods are more challenging to remove and can easily get trapped between teeth, providing a feast for cavity-causing bacteria. If you indulge in sticky treats, make sure to drink water afterward and consider flossing to remove any stubborn bits.

7. Bring a Pack of Sugar-Free Gum

Chewing sugar-free gum after a meal is a simple way to freshen your breath and protect your teeth. Chewing gum increases saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids. Look for gum that contains xylitol, a natural sweetener that can help reduce bacteria in the mouth. Having a pack of sugar-free gum handy is a convenient way to keep your mouth feeling fresh throughout the holiday.

8. Schedule Your Post-Holiday Checkup

Thanksgiving is a busy time, but don’t forget to prioritize your dental health afterward. Scheduling a post-holiday checkup with Dr. Hansen’s office in Apex, NC, can ensure your teeth are in good shape for the rest of the holiday season. A professional cleaning can remove any plaque buildup and address any dental concerns before they become more significant issues.

Enjoy a Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving!

At Dr. Rylan Hansen’s family dental practice in Apex, NC, we believe in helping our patients enjoy the holidays without compromising their dental health. By following these fun and simple tips, you can savor your Thanksgiving favorites while keeping your teeth strong and healthy. A few mindful choices can make a big difference for your smile—and ensure that it’s just as bright at the end of the holiday season as it was at the beginning.

For more advice on keeping your teeth healthy or to schedule a post-Thanksgiving appointment, contact Dr. Hansen’s office in Apex, North Carolina. Have a happy, tooth-friendly Thanksgiving!

Check Our Apex Dentist Service: Most Trusted Family Dentistry Practice

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Family Dentistry Services in Apex, NC

At Hansen Dentistry, we understand the importance of comprehensive dental care for every family member, from toddlers to grandparents. Our family dentistry services are designed to provide personalized, compassionate, and high-quality care tailored to the unique needs of each patient.

Benefits of Choosing Our Family Dentistry Services

  • Comprehensive Care for All Ages: Dr. Rylan Hansen and our experienced team are skilled in treating patients at every stage of life, ensuring continuity of care as your family grows.
  • Convenient Scheduling: We offer flexible appointment times to accommodate your family’s busy schedule, making it easier to maintain regular dental visits.
  • Comfortable Environment: Our office is equipped with a kid-friendly area featuring toys, coloring projects, and entertainment to keep children engaged and relaxed during visits.
  • Preventative Focus: We emphasize education and preventive care to help your family achieve and maintain optimal oral health, reducing the risk of future dental issues.

Why Choose Dr. Hansen for Your Family’s Dental Care?

Dr. Rylan J. Hansen combines a passion for dentistry with a commitment to patient-centered care. His unique background and dedication to removing barriers to dental treatment make him a trusted choice for families in Apex, NC. Our hygienist, Rachael, brings years of experience from pediatric dentistry, and together with Dr. Hansen, they have four children of their own, enhancing their understanding of family dental needs.

Services We Offer

  • Preventative Dentistry: Regular check-ups, cleanings, and patient education to prevent dental issues before they arise.
  • Cosmetic Dentistry: Enhance your smile with services like teeth whitening, crowns, and veneers.
  • Restorative Dentistry: Treatments such as fillings, crowns, and bridges to restore the function and appearance of your teeth.
  • Emergency Dentistry: Prompt care for unexpected dental emergencies to alleviate pain and address urgent issues.

Hear from Our Patients

Our patients appreciate the friendly and professional atmosphere at Hansen Dentistry. One patient shared, “Dr. Hansen is such an amazing dentist. He goes above and beyond to make you feel comfortable and at ease.”

Schedule Your Family’s Appointment Today

Experience the difference of personalized, family-focused dental care at Hansen Dentistry. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or request one online.

  • Phone: (919) 363-8444
  • Address: 800 W Williams St #240, Apex, NC 27502
  • Online Appointment Request: Schedule Here

We look forward to welcoming your family to our practice and helping you achieve healthy, beautiful smiles for life.

Best Family Dentist in Apex, NC: Why Dr. Rylan Hansen’s Office Stands Out

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When it comes to family dental care in Apex, North Carolina, Dr. Rylan Hansen and his team have earned a reputation as one of the best practices around. Choosing a family dentist is a significant decision, and for families in Apex, a local dentist who can cater to patients of all ages with professionalism, care, and expertise is essential. Here, we’ll dive into what makes Dr. Hansen’s practice stand out and why so many families in the Apex area trust them with their dental health.

Comprehensive Family Care Under One Roof

Dr. Hansen’s office specializes in family dentistry, meaning they cater to everyone from young children to grandparents. This range of services allows families to have all their dental needs met in one location, simplifying scheduling and creating a continuity of care. From pediatric cleanings and preventive care to restorative treatments and even cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Hansen’s office offers a wide variety of services under one roof. This convenience saves time for busy families and helps ensure consistent, high-quality care at each stage of life.

Specialized Experience and Gentle Care for Children

One of the most common reasons families in Apex choose Dr. Hansen’s practice is the gentle, child-friendly environment they provide. Children often feel nervous about visiting the dentist, and Dr. Hansen’s team understands this well. The office staff is trained to make young patients feel at ease, and the environment is designed to be welcoming and calming for children. This is vital because positive early experiences can lay the foundation for lifelong dental health. The team offers a patient and caring approach to help young ones become comfortable with dental care, making each visit as enjoyable as possible.

Modern Technology for Advanced Care

Dr. Hansen’s office uses state-of-the-art dental technology, ensuring that Apex families receive the best and most efficient care available. Advanced technology means that treatments are often faster, more comfortable, and more effective. From digital X-rays, which reduce radiation exposure, to intraoral cameras for precise diagnostics, these tools support a high standard of care and allow Dr. Hansen to offer solutions that may not be available at other practices in Apex, NC.

Preventive Care Focus

Prevention is the foundation of family dentistry, and Dr. Hansen’s practice is focused on helping families achieve long-term dental health. Regular checkups and cleanings are essential for preventing issues like cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. By promoting preventive care and educating patients on proper oral hygiene, Dr. Hansen and his team empower families to maintain healthy smiles and avoid costly procedures down the line. Additionally, they offer fluoride treatments and sealants for children to provide extra protection against cavities, which is especially helpful for young teeth that are still developing.

Patient-Centered Approach and Flexible Scheduling

As a family-focused practice, Dr. Hansen’s team is committed to providing a friendly, patient-centered experience. The staff is known for being attentive and approachable, always happy to answer questions and explain treatments in a way that is easy to understand. In addition, they offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate busy families, with convenient appointment times that fit around school, work, and other commitments.

A Local Choice Committed to the Apex Community

Dr. Hansen and his team are dedicated members of the Apex community. By supporting local events, participating in outreach, and giving back to the community, the practice builds lasting relationships with patients. Families in Apex know that when they choose Dr. Hansen, they’re choosing a practice that truly cares about their well-being and actively contributes to making Apex, NC, a healthier place.

Why Choose Dr. Hansen’s Family Dental Practice?

For families in Apex looking for a trustworthy, caring, and comprehensive family dentist, Dr. Rylan Hansen’s office offers all of this and more. With expertise in family dentistry, a welcoming atmosphere, modern technology, and a genuine commitment to patient health, Dr. Hansen’s practice is an ideal choice for families in the area. From early childhood to adulthood, every patient can count on receiving excellent care, compassionate service, and personalized attention, making this practice one of the best in Apex, NC.

Learn More About Our Apex NC Family Dentistry Services

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Family Dentistry in Apex, NC

Comprehensive Dental Care from Infants to Adults

At Hansen Dentistry, we believe that great oral health starts with compassionate, high-quality care for every member of your family. From a child’s first visit to ongoing care for adults, Dr. Rylan Hansen is the trusted Apex dentist near you. With a family-friendly approach and modern technology, we help ensure your entire family enjoys healthy, beautiful smiles for life.

Why Choose Hansen Dentistry for Family Dentistry?

  • Care for All Ages: From infants to seniors, we provide personalized care tailored to the unique needs of every stage of life.
  • Modern Technology: Equipped with state-of-the-art tools and techniques, we ensure safe, effective, and efficient care for your family.
  • Friendly & Welcoming Atmosphere: Our team creates a relaxing environment so even the youngest patients feel comfortable during their visits.
  • Trusted by Families: As one of the best dentists in Apex, Dr. Hansen is known for his dedication to patient care and long-lasting relationships.

Family Dentistry Services We Provide

We offer a wide range of services to meet the needs of your entire family, including:

  • Routine Cleanings and Exams: Keep your family’s smiles healthy with regular preventive care.
  • Fluoride Treatments and Dental Sealants: Protect teeth from cavities and decay.
  • Restorative Care: From fillings to crowns, we restore function and beauty to damaged teeth.
  • Cosmetic Dentistry: Enhance your smile with services like teeth whitening or Invisalign.
  • Emergency Dentistry: We’re here when you need us most, offering prompt care for dental emergencies.

A Family Dentist Who Understands Your Needs

As a father of four, Dr. Hansen understands the importance of finding a dentist who can meet the needs of the whole family. At Hansen Dentistry, we make it easy to coordinate care for your loved ones, so you can spend less time managing appointments and more time enjoying life.

Find Your Trusted Apex Dentist Near You

Experience the difference of personalized, family-focused care at Hansen Dentistry. Call (919) 363-8444 or submit a request form on our website to schedule an appointment. Discover why families trust Dr. Rylan Hansen as the best dentist in Apex for their dental care needs.

Check Our Apex Dentist Service: Dental Exams & X-Rays

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Dental Exams & X-Rays Services in Apex NC

The Foundation of Excellent Oral Health

Regular dental exams and X-rays are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. At Hansen Dentistry, Dr. Rylan Hansen, your trusted Apex dentist near you, provides comprehensive evaluations and state-of-the-art imaging to detect potential dental issues early. Our proactive approach helps prevent small concerns from becoming major problems, ensuring a lifetime of optimal oral health.

Why Are Dental Exams & X-Rays Important?

Dental exams and X-rays are critical components of preventative care. While exams allow Dr. Hansen to assess your oral health, X-rays provide a detailed view of areas not visible to the naked eye, such as beneath the gums or inside the teeth. Together, they enable us to diagnose issues like cavities, infections, bone loss, and impacted teeth.

Why Choose Hansen Dentistry?

  • Advanced Technology: Our digital X-rays provide clear, detailed images with minimal radiation exposure.
  • Thorough Assessments: Dr. Hansen’s comprehensive exams ensure every aspect of your oral health is evaluated.
  • Patient Education: We explain our findings and recommend personalized treatment plans to keep your smile healthy.
  • Expert Care: As one of the best dentists in Apex, Dr. Hansen is committed to delivering accurate, effective, and comfortable care.

What to Expect During Your Exam

  1. Oral Health Evaluation: Dr. Hansen will examine your teeth, gums, and soft tissues for signs of decay, gum disease, or other issues.
  2. Digital X-Rays: Advanced imaging allows us to see below the surface for a complete understanding of your oral health.
  3. Screenings: We check for oral cancer and other abnormalities to ensure early detection and timely care.
  4. Personalized Recommendations: Based on the exam, we’ll create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals.

The Benefits of Regular Exams & X-Rays

  • Early Detection: Identify problems before they become serious.
  • Preventative Focus: Avoid costly and invasive treatments with routine care.
  • Improved Overall Health: Addressing oral health issues can benefit your overall well-being.
  • Confidence in Your Smile: Stay ahead of dental concerns and maintain a bright, healthy smile.

Schedule Your Exam Today with Our Apex NC Dentist

Stay proactive about your oral health with regular dental exams and X-rays at Hansen Dentistry. Call (919) 363-8444 or submit a request form on our website to book your appointment with the best dentist in Apex.

6 Foods to Avoid to Save Your Teeth and Why?

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Our local dentist in Apex, NC will recommend that you follow a healthy diet. Not only will this keep you healthy, but it will also keep your teeth and gums healthy. There are several foods that you will need to limit or avoid.

1. Candy

It shouldn’t be a surprise that candy is bad for your teeth. The sugar from the candy clings to your teeth and mixes with the bacteria to create a cavity-causing acid. That is why a Apex, NC general dentist will recommend that you limit your intake of sugar.

2. Acidic Fruits And Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are healthy, but they may be bad for your teeth. Acidic fruits and vegetables, such as lemons, tomatoes and grapefruits, can damage your enamel. You do not have to completely give up fruits and vegetables. However, it is best for you to eat them along with a meal.

3. Starches

Potato chips and bread are examples of starchy foods. They are bad for your oral health as well as your overall health. Starches are broken down into sugar.

4. Alcohol

Alcohol can dry out your mouth. Saliva is needed to keep your mouth clean. If your mouth does not produce enough saliva, then you will be more likely to develop cavities and gum disease.

5. Hard Foods

I knew that I needed to find a dentist near me when I found out how bad hard foods were for your teeth. Hard foods require that you put in more effort to chew. They can cause your teeth to break.

6. Dried Fruits

Our local dentist in Apex, NC will recommend that you eat fresh fruit instead of dried fruit. Dried fruit is much higher in sugar. It can also stick to your teeth.

Request an appointment with our local general dentist today and get your confident smile back!

Tips for Relieving Dry Mouth, from Our Apex Family Dentist

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Occasionally, a patient will visit our office expecting to have no dental cavities, and is very surprised to learn that they have one. Often, this patient is middle-aged or older, brushes and flosses every day, and has no prior history of tooth decay. When this happens, dentists immediately begin to suspect dry mouth caused by new medications or an undiagnosed condition. Dry mouth causes a decrease in saliva production, which is crucial for regulating oral bacteria and keeping the teeth healthy. Below is more information about the causes of dry mouth, and some treatments that can help.

Common Causes of Dry Mouth

Many medications can cause dry mouth as a side effect. Common dry-mouth inducing medications include muscle relaxants; pain medications; antidepressants; blood pressure and heart rhythm medications; Parkinson’s and Alzheimers disease medications; antihistamines; and decongestants. Recreational drug use, chemotherapy, nerve damage due to injury or surgery, and poor nutrition can also cause dry mouth. Note that this list is far from comprehensive; to learn whether a medication, behavior or condition may be causing your dry mouth, consult with your doctor or pharmacist.

Treatments for Dry Mouth

Regardless of the cause of your dry mouth, it’s important to do something about it, as lack of saliva can lead to cavities, gingivitis (gum disease), and halitosis (bad breath). Below are some tips on managing dry mouth from our Apex dentist.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is important for many aspects of your health in general, but for those suffering from dry mouth, it is even more important. Strive to drink at least 8-12 eight ounce glasses of water a day, unless your doctor advises against it. Taking small sips throughout the day will benefit you more than consuming a large amount in one sitting, as it helps to “wash” your teeth all day long.

Chew Sugarless Gum

Chewing sugarless gum can help to stimulate saliva production, providing your salivary glands are still operational, and not permanently damaged by injury or chemotherapy. The best sugar substitute, from a dentist’s perspective, is xylitol, a plant-derived sweetener that actively kills harmful tooth bacteria. Sucking on sugar-free lollipops can also help boost saliva production.

Avoid Drugs, Alcohol & Citrus 

Alcohol, caffeine, and citric acid can all dry out the mouth and inhibit saliva production. If you use an alcoholic mouthwash, you might want to try switching to a saltwater rinse instead. On the subject of indulgences, tobacco and marijuana can also worsen dry mouth, so if you use these, try to decrease or eliminate your use. Note that the nicotine in electronic cigarettes also contributes to dry mouth.

Add Moisture to Your Environment

Moistening dry foods with broth, sauces, milk or melted butter can make it easier to chew and swallow; you could also simply try adding more non-citric fruit and vegetables to your diet. You can also use a humidifier to add moisture to the ambient air around you, especially while you sleep.

Suffering from Dry Mouth? Talk to an Apex Dentist Today  

As oral healthcare specialists, dentists are able to assess potential causes of dry mouth, and prescribe or recommend products that can treat it. Many moisturizing gels, lozenges, and mouthwashes designed specifically to treat dry mouth are available over the counter; if these prove to be ineffective, your dentist can prescribe medications that stimulate the saliva glands. To reach a dentist in Apex NC, please click here.

What is Xylitol? Ask a General Dentist in Apex NC

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We all know about the negative health effects of sugar, especially when it comes to teeth. Fortunately, artificial sweeteners don’t have the same effect on teeth as sugar, and can help you have a much healthier smile. One artificial sweetener, xylitol, even has positive effects on teeth. Here’s everything you need to know about Xylitol from a dentist in Apex, NC.

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is categorized as a sugar alcohol. That means that it combines traits of sugar molecules and alcohol molecules to create a structure very similar to that of sugar. However, Xylitol has much fewer calories, doesn’t raise blood sugar levels, and actually kills the harms the bacteria that live on your teeth and cause tooth decay.

Is Xylitol Natural?

Despite the pharmaceutical-sounding name, Xylitol is found in many fruits and vegetables, and is even produced in small amounts by the human metabolism. It can also be processed from trees like birch, or from a plant fiber called xylan. For these reasons, most health professionals consider it to be a safe, natural substance.

How Xylitol Helps Your Teeth

Xylitol functions a lot like a “mousetrap” for the bacteria that live on your teeth. Normally, these bacteria ingest sugar and carbohydrates and convert them into acid, which destroys the tooth enamel. After the bacteria ingest xylitol, however, they are no longer able to absorb glucose. With their energy-producing pathway clogged up, they end up starving to death. That’s why many dentists recommend using xylitol-sweetened chewing gum: it’s one of very few things that can actually kill harmful tooth bacteria.

Why Xylitol is Toxic to Dogs

If you buy gum or candy that contains Xylitol, it is very important to keep it away from any dogs in your house. When a dog eats xylitol, its body mistakes it for glucose and starts producing large amounts of insulin. Then, the dog’s cells start absorbing glucose from the bloodstream, which can lead to hypoglycemia, low blood sugar, and even death. Xylitol may also have detrimental effects on liver function in dogs, with high doses causing liver failure.

It only takes 0.1 grams per kg of body weight for a dog to be affected. To put that in perspective, a 6 pound Chihuahua could get sick or die from eating a single piece of xylitol chewing gum.

Need a General Dentist in Apex NC? Call Hansen Dentistry

If you are in need of a dental cleaning, oral surgery or other dental service, be sure to contact our general dentist in Apex NC. At Hansen Dentistry, we will do our best to make you feel relaxed and at home while receiving expert dental care. To schedule an appointment, click here.

Our Apex Dentist Explains how to Help Your Child Enjoy Going to the Dentist

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Going to the dentist can be a scary prospect—for parents! Fortunately, there are many ways you can teach toddlers and small children that the dentist’s office is nothing to be afraid of. Here’s how to help your child enjoy getting a dental check-up so they can maintain good oral health for years to come.

Build Excitement

Before your dentist appointment, talk to your child about the upcoming event and try to build excitement and understanding. Picture books about teeth and dentists can help prepare children in an atmosphere they are already familiar with. You could also share some interesting facts with them about animal teeth or dinosaur teeth, two topics children love.

Keep Your Cool

Remember that most children do not have much experience at the dentist’s office, and any nervousness or anxiety they feel towards the visit will likely be learned from observing you. So, if you’re worried about tantrums, don’t let that worry show. Similarly, never let a child overhear you expressing fear about your own dentist appointment, or worrying about an upcoming procedure. Your best bet is to stay positive, calm, and optimistic whenever the dentist is mentioned.

Have a Game Plan

If possible, schedule your appointment in the morning, when young children are alert and fresh. Be aware that if your small child becomes fearful or upset while in the dentist’s office, the best course of action might be to reschedule. Forcing the appointment to continue will establish that the dentist office is a place where upsetting things happen, and start a cycle wherein the next appointment provokes anxiety, too.

Know How to Take Care of a Child’s Teeth

The best way to make your child’s dentist appointment go smoothly is to take care of his or her teeth year-round. As your child’s teeth emerge, continue to teach him or her the importance of brushing and flossing, and supervise brushing to make sure that no toothpaste is swallowed. Try to limit sticky, sugary foods, such as candy and gummies, and follow our toothbrushing tips for kids.

Schedule an Appointment at Our Dentist Office in Apex

With proper supervision and frequent dental visits, your child will develop good dental habits that will serve them well for a lifetime. If you’re ready to schedule a dentist appointment for your child, contact Hansen Dentistry here. We can’t wait to take care of your family!