Smart Smiles: Dr. Lowrance Reveals What Really Works in Oral Care

Are electric toothbrushes and water flossers better than traditional brushing and flossing?

Yes, electric toothbrushes are significantly more efficient at removing plaque and bacteria compared to their counterparts, manual toothbrushes. We prefer name-brand brushes such as Sonicare, Oral-B, and Waterpik because they have been tested and backed by science. Whether we recommend a Waterpik or floss, we decide it on a case-by-case basis. If a patient has implants, bridges, and crowns, a Waterpik may be more effective at removing bacteria under the gumline. We still love and hold traditional floss as our gold standard for the majority of patients. And an important key, regardless or whether it’s floss or a Waterpik, is that it’s being used at night, not just in the morning.

How does Zoom whitening compare to at-home treatments?

Zoom whitening has more rapid results, and can include take-home trays for patients to do touch-up treatments at home with the professional gel after a few months of reintroducing stains. Home kits are a more affordable option but tend to take more commitment due to needing weeks of repeated treatment versus the one-time office visit with Zoom. If a patient is interested in a safe and effective at-home whitening option, we recommend the Opalescence brand.

My teen has dental anxiety. Could Invisalign be a less stressful alternative to braces?

Generally, yes, due to the ease of maintenance, less painful adjustments, and reduction of social anxiety due to them being virtually invisible. The alternative side is that the patient must do their homework and wear the trays for the majority of the day (22 hours!) to see results and remove them for eating or drinking anything but water.

Can cosmetic dentistry also improve my oral health?

Yes! Cracks, chips, thinning enamel, bite misalignments, and tooth crowding can be corrected using crowns, veneers, or bonding. This often protects the tooth from further damage, restores missing structures, and can make the teeth easier to brush and floss. We also feel that patients who invest in their smile want to make a commitment to their oral hygiene to maintain their beautiful smile.

Why do so many patients choose Lowrance Dental over other dental offices?

Patients love seeing the same faces every time. We are a family practice that has been around Rockwall for 43 years. We love our patients and want them to feel like family when they walk through the door. As a recent review said, “Disney lied, Lowrance Dental is the best place on earth!” Check out some of our reviews and our new-patient special at LowranceDental.com.