What You Should Avoid at the Holiday Table

As you get ready to throw your diet to the wind during the holidays, you may want to consider your choices at the holiday party table. Some of the foods you munch on could cause some serious damage to your teeth and gums, and let’s face it; the last thing you want to deal with in January is never ending trips to the dentist’s office.

Although you may be tempted to tuck into the Christmas caramels, your dentist advises against it. Caramels are one of the worst things that you can do to your teeth and are right up there with candy canes and gummy bears. Caramels and other sticky sweets will get caught between your teeth and the fissures and crevices on your molars. Once that happens, the sugar will quickly convert to acid, eroding the enamel on your teeth. If you must enjoy make sure that you brush and floss as quickly as you can, or rinse with water.

You may think you are doing yourself a favor by drinking white wine instead of red, but you would be wrong. According to the American Dental Association, white wine has large amounts of acid and sugar. Coupled together, that glass of wine could cause problems for the enamel on your teeth. Although red wine can stain, it is a much better choice than a glass of white wine. Make sure that you brush afterwards or try one of those new wine wipe ups that are available online or at your local pharmacy.

Dried fruit may seem like a great choice when it comes to the holiday buffet, but be careful. Those dried apricots, figs, dates, mangos, and pineapples are a diabetic’s nightmare and full of sugar. If that isn’t bad enough dried fruit, just like caramel, will stick to your teeth.

Not everything is bad for your teeth when it comes to the holiday buffet table. Instead of sweets or starchy goodies, which could cause more damage, sample cheese as it is loaded with calcium. Veggies are another great choice as carrots and broccoli can help give your saliva a boost while celery is known as nature’s dental floss.

This Christmas remember to watch what you eat, and don’t forget to schedule your annual checkup with your dentist before the New Year.

A New Smile that Will Turn Heads

If you are looking for a solution to your not so attractive smile, call or click and schedule an appointment with your dentist who can determine what cosmetic dentistry solutions would be best for your particular needs.

Web MD explains that Cosmetic Dentistry has certainly changed over the years with innovative technologies that can give you a celebrity smile in just one or two dental appointments.

Some of the available cosmetic dentistry techniques include porcelain veneers, which could take two or three appointments, fixed dental bridges, which may require two dental visits, inlays and on lays, tooth whitening, tooth colored fillings and dental bonding, which could be completed in a single dental appointment. Another new dental procedure is called Invisalign. Invisalign is the clear alternative to conventional braces and can straighten teeth in as little as 6 to 18 months.

When you schedule a no obligation cosmetic dentistry appointment, your dentist will make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy before proceeding with any dental treatment. If you are given the go ahead the two of you will discuss what you do or don’t like about your teeth, a time line and a budget.

In some cases, all you may need is tooth whitening. Unlike those over the counter products from your local pharmacy, professional tooth whitening will give you better results in less time as the tooth whitening gels are much stronger than those that are available from the pharmacy.

There are two types of professional two whitening procedures available. Chair side or custom made bleaching trays that you take home.

Chair side tooth whitening can lighten your teeth up to 12 shades in less than an hour while custom-made tooth whitening trays will give you results in about two to four weeks. Whichever tooth whitening procedure you decide on, you will notice better results that you would from over the counter tooth whitening gels, pastes, strips, and rinses.

If you would like a new smile that turns heads, call and schedule a no obligation cosmetic dentistry consultation withGentle Touch Family Dental today.

Like your Reflection Again

If you are tired of your reflection in the mirror because of your smile, it’s time to schedule an appointment with a cosmetic dentist. Scheduling a complimentary cosmetic dentistry evaluation will help your dentist determine what dental cosmetic procedures would be best for your particular needs whether you require a simple in office tooth whitening treatment, or something more permanent such as dental veneers or invisible braces.

When you schedule a comprehensive dental examination with your dentist your past and present medical history will be discussed before your dentist conducts a thorough checkup that will include an oral cancer screening, gum evaluation and a cleaning. If you have any cavities, your dentist may decide to fill them during your checkup or schedule an additional appointment to take care of the decay if a large filling and root canal therapy is required.

After your oral examination and dental checkup your dentist will discuss what types of cosmetic dental procedures would be best for your situation while asking you questions regarding your perception of the perfect smile. Dental veneers, dental implants, dental bonding, inlays, onlays, invisible braces, bridges, or crowns may be recommended to improve your smile. Sometimes all that may be needed is a simple tooth whitening procedure, which can take place chair side or at home with custom made home bleaching trays and whitening gel.

If your dentist recommends dental bonding, you will only need one appointment per tooth as this cosmetic and restorative dental procedure is done completely in house and on site in just one visit per tooth or area. 

If more than one dental procedure is required, you and your dentist will discuss payment plans and options along with a treatment schedule. Some procedures may be best before others, while sometimes you can have two or more procedures during the same appointment.

If you would like more information regarding restorative and cosmetic dental procedures, call or click and schedule an appointment with your dentist who can help you determine what treatments would be best for your particular needs. Call or click now.

Boost Your Confidence with Invisalign

Your smile can change the way you see yourself, and if your crooked teeth have been lowering your self-esteem, schedule an appointment with your dentist who can determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign.

Invisalign is an amazing dental procedure that does not require wires and brackets, and best of all, depending on your particular case, you could have straighter teeth in as little as six months.

The Invisalign system uses a series of between 11 and 31 clear plastic aligners that are worn between 20 and 22 hours each day. Every two weeks you will replace your existing Invisalign aligners with a new set while your teeth get straighter. On average, you will need to wear your clear plastic aligners from between six and eighteen months.

If your dentist determines that you are a good candidate for Invisalign, x-rays and photographs will be taken so that your new Invisalign aligners can be custom made. Once ready, you will only need to see your dentist once every six weeks to make sure that everything is going according to your Invisalign plan.

Invisalign clear plastic aligners are comfortable and nearly invisible. In fact, the only people who will know that you are wearing Invisalign will be you and your dentist.

Your Invisalign clear plastic aligners are removed when you eat or drink and when you brush and floss. Old school braces are notorious for tooth decay, as they cannot be removed when brushing or flossing. This can cause tooth decay to form, as it is impossible to brush underneath the brackets.

Invisalign is best for teens and adults and truly is the 21^st century approach to a beautiful smile.

If you would like more information regarding Invisalign or any other cosmetic dental procedure including porcelain veneers, dental implants, dental bonding, inlays, onlays, dental contouring or tooth colored fillings, call and schedule an appointment with your dentist who can come up with a Smile Design plan to get you smiling again. Call or click now.  

Dental Scaling and Root Planing for Healthy Gums

If you have been putting off a visit to the dentist because you just haven’t had time to get your teeth cleaned, you could be asking for problems. Neglecting twice-yearly dental appointments could be much more serious than a couple of fillings could.

Your teeth and gums are the gateway to the rest of your body. Recent studies have indicated that gum disease could increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s disease.

Web MD explains that the best way to keep your mouth healthy is to brush twice and floss once each day. If you are unsure about your brushing and flossing techniques, call and schedule an appointment with your dentist who can show you the right way to clean your teeth. Other habits to include in your oral hygiene protocol include eating a healthy diet, plenty of fluoride and regular checkups with your dentist.

If your gums are swollen, red, bleeding after you eat, brush, or floss, you may be suffering from gingivitis or periodontal disease. The more advanced periodontal disease can cause serious problems, and if left untreated, could cause tooth and even bone loss.

Periodontal disease can be treated if caught early enough, and if your dentist has diagnosed you with gum disease, he or she may recommend dental scaling and root planing to help your gums heal.

Dental scaling and root planing is the conventional treatment for periodontal disease. This non-surgical periodontal procedure also referred to as a deep cleaning removes and eliminates the tartar and dental plaque that causes gingivitis and periodontal disease.

If your dentist has recommended dental scaling and root planing, you have a very good chance of nipping your gum disease in the bud as dental scaling and root planing help your gums heal.

For more information regarding gum disease or dental scaling and root planing, call and schedule an appointment with your dentist today. You may think your gums are healthy, but only your dentist knows for sure. Call and schedule a dental checkup with your dentist today.

Little Known Tongue Facts

According to your dentist, your tongue, if it is average, is about four inches long. Your tongue is divided up into two parts, the posterior, and the anterior. The posterior is located near the back of your throat measuring a third while the anterior is the visible part of your tongue and is two thirds of the total length.

Your tongue helps clean your mouth and assists with digestion by transferring the food when you chew before swallowing. Your tongue is attached to the bottom of your mouth and is called the frenulum. The tip of your tongue, or the apex, is not directly attached to the floor of your mouth so that your tongue can reach the upper part of your mouth for talking and cleaning.

3,000 to 10,000 individual taste buds playing an essential role in how you taste food and drink help your sense of taste along. Your taste buds are full of taste receptors that actually tell you the different flavors in the food that you eat.

According to your dentist, there are five different taste categories. Savory, salty, bitter, sour, and sweet. Saliva is used to wet your food before the receptors recognize the flavor.

If you do not brush your tongue regularly, you will have bad breath, as that taste will not always go away, especially when you are sleeping. The American Dental Association explains that over 60 million people in the U.S. suffer from halitosis, or chronic bad breath. Bad breath can develop from food and bacteria that collects on your tongue. To avoid the accumulation, your dentist recommends that you brush your tongue with a tongue cleaner or a soft bristled toothbrush.

Tongues have eight muscles with four that are not attached to any of your bones. This allows your tongue to change shape. The muscles that are attached to your bones allow your tongue to change its position. When your tongue muscles work together they allow it to facilitate speech and move in different directions.

Your tongue is extremely agile giving you the flexibility to speak, and when it works in conjunction with your teeth and lips, can produce over 90 words in 60 seconds.

Brushing your tongue and teeth, flossing, a good healthy diet and regular checkups with your dentist can help prevent chronic bad breath. Call and schedule an appointment with your dentist today.

Types of Dental Fillings

If you have a cavity and need a filling, you should probably be armed with as much information as possible, especially considering there are several types of filling materials that your dentist may recommend.

Your teeth can be filled with ceramic porcelain, gold, silver amalgam, tooth colored plastic, composite resin or glass ionomer. The location of the cavity, how much decay there is the cost of the materials and your insurance will determine what type of filling material is best for your needs.

Gold Cast Fillings can last up to 15 years, are quite strong, and will not corrode. Gold fillings can withstand chewing and are more aesthetically pleasing than silver amalgam. However, gold cast fillings can cost about ten times more than a silver amalgam filling and require two or more dental visits. You may also experience a galvanic shock, which is rare, but does happen. A galvanic shock occurs when two metals, such as silver and gold are placed next to each other.

Silver Amalgam Fillings are as durable as gold cast and will usually outlast tooth colored composite fillings. Silver feelings can hold up well under chewing forces and are less expensive than composite fillings. Silver fillings do not match the rest of your tooth and require more removal of the natural tooth structure. Amalgam fillings can also create a gray color surrounding the rest of the tooth. Cracks and fissures may also occur because there is wider degree of contraction and expansion.

Tooth Colored Composites can be matched to the color of your teeth and bond directly to the structure of your tooth. Composite fillings are chemically bonded to your tooth providing additional support. Composite fillings can also be used to repair worn, broken, or chipped teeth. Composite fillings also require less tooth structure removal. The ADA explains that Composite fillings will not last as long as gold or silver fillings and require additional time in the dental chair. If composites are being used for bonding, you may require another dental visit. Composites may also chip and are more expensive than silver amalgam fillings.

Ceramics are made from porcelain and resist staining better than composite fillings. Ceramic porcelain fillings are more abrasive and can last about 15 years, but are more expensive than composite, silver, or gold fillings.

Glass ionomer fillings are made from acrylic and glass and are normally used for dental fillings that are below your gum line. They also work for children as they release fluoride that can help protect teeth from additional decay. Glass ionomer fillings are weaker than resin and more prone to cracks and fractures. They will last about five years and cost about the same as composite resin.

For more information regarding dental fillings, schedule an appointment with your dentist today. 

Bad Breath Can Be Prevented

If your breath is sending others running in the opposite direction, it is time to schedule an appointment with your dentist who can get to the root of your chronic halitosis.

According to Web MD, there are several reasons that people are afraid to talk to you face to face. It could have something to do with a medication you are currently taking or it may be your diet, however, your dentist will tell you that the number one reason people have bad breath is poor oral hygiene habits.

Good oral health habits include brushing twice and flossing once each day. A healthy diet loaded with fruits and vegetables and regular checkups with your dentist should be included in your oral health regime.

The majority of bad breath will start in your mouth and occurs because of bacteria. Food is probably the number one cause if you do not have dental problems. When certain types of foods break down, the leftover food particles can increase the bacteria causing halitosis. Garlic and onions are the biggest culprits as once digested they will stay in your system for 72 hours travelling through your bloodstream and into your lungs.

If you smoke, you may want to quit as smoking and other types of tobacco use will cause bad breathe. Smokers are also more susceptible to gum disease, which is another cause of halitosis.

As mentioned above, poor dental hygiene is the leading cause of bad breath. People who do not brush or floss will develop a sticky plaque or film of bacteria on their teeth. If it is not brushed away, that plaque will irritate your gum line eventually causing gingivitis. If left to its own devices gingivitis will form pockets that are filled with puss in-between your teeth and gums causing periodontitis. The more dangerous form of gum disease, periodontal disease, could have been prevented had you practiced good oral hygiene. Make sure that you also brush your tongue as the uneven surface can trap odor-causing bacteria. If you wear dentures, clean them regularly and make sure that you see your dentist regularly as ill-fitting dentures can also cause chronic bad breath.

Chronic dry mouth, mouth infections, and medications can inadvertently cause halitosis as well. If you have recently had oral surgery, you may also experience bad breath.

In most cases bad breath can be prevented, but only if you practice good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly.

If chronic bad breath is becoming a problem for you or someone you know, schedule an appointment with your dentist today. Call or click now.

A Painless Alternative to Porcelain Veneers

If you have been considering porcelain veneers, but have been a bit reluctant because traditional porcelain veneers require some removal of your tooth’s enamel, talk to your dentist about Lumineers. Traditional porcelain veneers are permanent and cannot be removed. However, Lumineers are completely reversible.

Lumineers are thin pieces of porcelain that your dentist places on top of your teeth for a naturally beautiful smile. Lumineers are as thin as a contact lens and require no shaving or grinding of the natural tooth. In fact, Lumineers are so thin that your dentist can place them over your bridges and crowns without having to replace your old restorations.

When you schedule an appointment with your dentist for Lumineers, a thorough examination will be conducted to find out if you are a good fit. If you are free from gum disease and tooth decay, and your teeth are sound enough for Lumineers, your dentist will take x-rays and pictures before making an impression of both your lower and upper teeth. Once the impression has been made, your dentist will send it off to the Lumineers lab along with your dental records, photos, and x-rays to ensure the best possible fit. Unlike traditional porcelain veneers, there will be no shots, extensive drilling, or unsightly and uncomfortable temporary acrylic veneers.  

When your new Lumineers are ready, your dentist will make sure that each Lumineers fits perfectly before etching and bonding into place. Once placed, your dentist will make sure that your bite is balanced to avoid chipping.

Because traditional porcelain veneers are much thicker, your dentist must take a more aggressive approach when it comes to application. That aggressive approach means more removal of the natural structure of your tooth, which will require anesthetic and shots to minimize the pain and sensitivity. Because Lumineers are so thin, you will not have to deal with such aggressive steps for a beautiful new smile.

Gentle Touch Family Dentistry is a certified Lumineers provider who can give you the smile you have been dreaming about in as little as two appointments.

Call your Farmington Hills Dentist and schedule a no obligation Lumineers consultation today. A beautiful smile really is just a couple of dental appointments away. Call or click now. 

Raisins May Help your Teeth and Gums

Everyone knows that dried fruit can cause problems for your teeth; in fact, it wasn’t long ago that dentists, along with the rest of the public, believed that raisins promoted tooth decay. However, recent studies have indicated that raisins may actually be good for your pearly whites while helping to fight tooth decay.

The research that was conducted at the University of Illinois in Chicago discovered that there were certain chemicals in raisins that helped suppress oral bacteria growth associated with tooth decay and gum disease. You heard that right, according to researchers, raisins could even help prevent gum disease.

Sticky and sweet foods, such as apricots, figs, mangos, pineapples and other dried fruit are known to lead to dental caries and tooth decay as the bacteria that lives in our mouth thrives on any food that is left on your teeth. Sticky and sweet foods actually produce acid eating away the enamel on your teeth. Over time, that acid will eventually destroy the enamel causing tooth decay.

Raisins are sweet and sticky, but because they mainly contain glucose and fructose types of sugar, not sucrose, which your dentist will tell you are one of the main culprits of oral diseases caused by sugar, they are not as bad.

The studies have dispelled the myth that all sticky and sweet foods are bad for your teeth, in fact, some researchers believe that raisins may actually act like a teeth cleaner just like bananas and apples do. The same study determined that raisins are able to protect your teeth because they reduce acidic exposure.

Although raisins are better for your teeth than other types of dried fruit it is important to remember that any food particles that remain on your teeth will eventually cause tooth decay.

Your dentist recommends that you brush twice a day using fluoridated toothpaste and that you floss once a day as well. Other good oral health habits include a mouthwash recommended by the American Dental Association, and a good healthy diet that is loaded with fruits and vegetables. Regular checkups with your dentist along with twice-yearly professional cleanings should also be part of your oral health routine.   

If you would like more information regarding foods that are good for your teeth and good oral health habits, schedule an appointment with your dentist today.

Root Canals are not as bad as you may think

Dentistry has certainly changed, but those two little words, “Root Canal,” can still send a grown man, or woman, running for the hills, but in reality, a root canal is no more painful than a simple filling.

According to the American Dental Association, a root canal is necessary if you have a diseased tooth. Pulp is what is inside of your tooth and contains blood vessels, nerves, and tissues that can become infected and even die.

Your dentist will recommend a root canal in order to save your tooth. The pulp inside your tooth can become damaged because of large fillings, chips or cracks in the tooth, a trauma to your face, deep decay or multiple dental procedures in the same tooth.  

When the nerve tissue or pulp inside your tooth becomes damaged, it will break down allowing dangerous bacteria to multiply inside of your tooth. Decayed debris along with bacteria will eventually cause a dangerous infection that could lead to an abscess. An abscess is a pocket that is filled with pus that forms at the bottom of your tooth. If you have an abscessed tooth, it is imperative that you call your dentist as quickly as possible as the infection can spread throughout your body and even to your brain. In addition to the infection and a possible abscess, a root canal can also cause swelling in your head, neck, or face and bone loss.

If your dentist determines that a root canal is necessary, x-rays will be taken to see if there is any infection around the bone before numbing the area with a local anesthetic. Although the nerve is dead, and won’t cause you any pain, most dentists will administer it anyway to make you feel more at ease.

To keep the area dry during the root canal, your dentist will place a sheet of rubber, called a rubber dam, around your tooth before drilling a hole into your tooth so that the decayed pulp tissue, including the nerves and debris can be removed.

Once removed your dentist will clean out the area with root canal files working down the entire length of your tooth to scrub and scrape the sides of your root canals. Water will be used from time to time during the root canal procedure to flush out the bacteria and debris.

After the tooth has been cleaned your dentist will seal it if the remaining infected tissue has healed. If a temporary filling is necessary, you may also be given antibiotics to help clear the infection.

Depending on how much decay or damage has been done to your tooth, your dentist may also decide to place a crown to protect your tooth against further damage.

If you believe you have an abscess or have been dealing with a toothache for far too long, schedule an appointment with your dentist today.

Your Teeth Should Be a Team

If you have a missing tooth or missing teeth, you may not feel like opening your mouth when you smile, but according to your dentist, a closed mouth smile isn’t the only consequence when it comes to a missing tooth.

One or more missing teeth can make you embarrassed, depressed, and lower your self-esteem. Having a missing tooth can also affect your self-confidence, but the American Dental Association explains that missing teeth can also affect your overall health.

Your teeth work together as a team, and if one or more of your players is missing, you could be asking for trouble. If you lose a tooth, losing the game isn’t the only consequence.  

Missing teeth can cause all sorts of issues. A missing tooth leaves a space that your other teeth will try to fill.  When you lose one or more of your teeth, the others will drift into the empty space. Not only can this type of movement cause your teeth to tip or rotate, but malocclusion can also affect your jaw joints causing pain and locking.

Your dentist explains that tooth loss can affect the way you chew. If you have lost one of your molars, you tend to chew on the opposite side because you have more teeth to bite down on. The constant pressure caused by chewing on one side can cause lost fillings and tooth breakage.

Another problem caused from tooth loss is something that dentists refer to as hypereruption. If you have lost a tooth and your other tooth has nothing to meet with when you talk or chew, the opposing tooth will drop into place. Once this happens, the roots of your teeth could become exposed. Root exposure can cause sensitive teeth, root decay and gum disease.

Speaking of gum disease, that empty space left by your tooth is inviting food particles, bacteria, and plaque into the hole leaving you susceptible to gingivitis or the more serious periodontal disease. If left untreated, gum disease can cause gum recession leading to additional tooth loss. Gum disease can also affect your other organs including your brain and your heart.

Your favorite foods may become the most painful to eat if you have one or more missing teeth. Crunchy foods such as apples, carrots, and nuts will no longer be enjoyable because it may be painful. Not being able to eat healthy foods can eventually lead to poor nutrition and even more health problems.

If you like to talk, you may be surprised to learn that a missing tooth can affect your speech. You may develop a lisp or your voice could change completely.

However, there are some things you can do to replace your missing teeth. These include fixed dental bridges, partial or full dentures or the most popular and permanent solution, dental implants.

For more information regarding missing tooth replacement, schedule an appointment with your dentist who can determine what procedure would be best for your particular needs. 

Healthy Foods that May Not Be Healthy for Teeth

You may think you are eating healthy for your whole body but according to the American Dental Association, there are some healthy foods that are actually damaging to your teeth and gums.

Too much of a good thing, and that includes dried fruits such as prunes, figs and apricots can cause problems for your teeth. This naturally sweet treat is quite sticky and can get caught between your teeth and become lodged inside the fissures in your back teeth.

Other healthy foods such as citrus fruits can be just as bad as dried fruits because the bacteria in your mouth will quickly convert the acid into sugars eroding the enamel on your teeth. Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes, kiwi fruit and the humble tomato, yes, it is also a fruit, should be enjoyed as part of a meal instead of a snack. If you do find yourself eating dried or citrus fruits without a meal, rinse with water. You may also want to brush twenty minutes after you rinse as well.

Your dentist understands that sports, energy and vitamin drinks are all the rage, but most people have no idea that those good for you drinks are loaded with sugar. If you do have a Gatorade, a flavored Vitamin Water or a Red Bull make sure that you chase it down with a glass of water.

Coffee, tea, and red wine will stain your teeth, but so will most dark foods. Drink plenty of water or brush your teeth if you like spaghetti bolognaise with marinara sauce or have a plate of curry for lunch. Blueberries, cranberries, and pomegranates can also be absorbed into your tooth’s enamel, which is quite porous.

These days more and more people are switching from white bread to whole wheat, white rice to brown rice and opting for sweet potatoes instead of russets, but unfortunately, even good carbohydrates can cause problems for your teeth. The bacteria in your mouth love to feast on carbs, including that wheat pasta that you devoured for dinner. Pasta and the other good carbohydrates mentioned above can also get stuck in-between your teeth.

Potato chips and French fries aren’t considered healthy foods, but there are some alternatives for weight watchers. Unfortunately, pita chips, wheat sticks, and low fat bread sticks can wreck havoc with your teeth. Starchy foods, even the good kind, are quickly converted to sugars and enamel eroding acids. Starchy foods can also get stuck in-between and on top of your teeth.

When it comes to Healthy Foods, it is best to talk to your dentist who can advise you on the best Healthy Foods for teeth and gums. Schedule an appointment with your dentist today.

Custom Made Mouth Guards for All Sports

Now that the weather has started to warm up and Mother Nature has decided to cooperate, it may be time to schedule an appointment with your dentist for a custom-made sports mouth protector.

These days it is more important than ever to protect you and your family, which means more than elbow and kneepads.

Mouthguards, sports guards, and mouth protectors are all different names that essentially mean the same thing, and according to the American Dental Association is something that everyone should wear, even if you are not participating in a group sport such as soccer or football. Sports guards are a very important part of the uniform whether you or someone you know is involved in gymnastics, mountain biking or skateboarding. Tennis players, racquetball players, surfers, and roller bladders should all wear some type of mouthguard to protect themselves from blows to the head and face.

Mouth protectors are worn to protect the upper teeth, but can be custom made to fit the lower teeth as well, especially if you are someone you know wears braces or has a dental bridge.

There are three types of mouth protectors available. Stock mouthguards, boil and bite mouthguards and custom-made mouthguards. Whichever you choose, it should be comfortable, tear-resistant and resilient.

Stock mouthguards are the least expensive and are ready to wear. However, stock sports mouthguards can make it hard to breathe and talk, and often don’t fit as well as they should.

Boil and Bite mouth protectors are a step up from stock mouthguards and come pre-formed, but the shape can be altered by boiling before placing them into your mouth for a more customized fit. Follow the directions carefully to avoid a mouthguard that doesn’t fit as it should.

Custom made mouthguards are designed for you by your dentist and will give you the best protection and fit. After your dentist makes an impression or mold of your teeth, the custom-made mouthguard will be made to fit over the impression. Most amateur and professional athletes prefer custom-made sports mouthguards even though they are more costly.

Your dentist recommends that you replace your mouthguard every season because it can become less effective and wear down. It is extremely important to replace a child or adolescents mouth protector because their teeth and mouths will continue to develop over the years.

Schedule your appointment for a custom made mouthguard and keep you and your family safe this spring.

Dental Bonding is the Affordable Alternative to Veneers

If you are afraid to smile because of your teeth, your dentist can assess your situation to determine what cosmetic dental restoration procedures would be best for your needs.

There are all sorts of cosmetic dental restorations procedures that you may want to consider.  These include dental implants, porcelain veneers, Lumineers, Invisalign; tooth colored fillings, or dental bonding that can be done in as little as one dental appointment.

Dental bonding is the affordable alternative to porcelain veneers or Lumineers and can help with teeth that are stained, chipped, cracked, or damaged. If you have always wanted to fill that space between your teeth, dental bonding could be the answer.

According to Web MD, dental bonding is the least expensive and easiest way to repair the imperfections in your teeth. The composite tooth colored resin used by your dentist can be shaped to match your natural teeth improve the appearance of short teeth or change the entire shape of your tooth.  

Unlike porcelain veneers, no preparation is required for dental bonding. Anesthetic is usually not required unless you are having silver amalgam fillings replaced or bonding is being used to fill a cavity.

After your dentist has deemed you as a good candidate for dental bonding a shade will be selected from a guide that matches your natural tooth color.

Once the color has been chosen, the surface of the tooth will be etched to roughen it up. The tooth will then be coated with a conditioning liquid to help the tooth colored bonding material stick or adhere to your natural tooth.

After the tooth has been prepared, your dentist will place the resin over the tooth before molding and smoothing into place. After the desired shape is achieved, a laser or ultraviolet light will be used to harden or cure the tooth colored resin.

Enamel shaping improves the appearance of your teeth by contouring the enamel and is often used with dental bonding.

Dental bonding will not last forever and is not as strong as Lumineers or porcelain veneers; however, it is a great alternative if you are looking for a brighter whiter smile in just a few office visits.

For more information regarding dental bonding or any other cosmetic dental restoration procedure, schedule an appointment with your dentist today.

Tooth Whitening can make a Difference in your Life

If tooth whitening has become an obsession, you need to schedule an appointment with your dentist. People who constantly try new over the counter whitening products such as gels, toothpastes, strips and other whitening kits could be bordering on Bleachorexia. Dental specialists call people who can’t get enough of tooth whitening, Bleachorexics.

Although you probably won’t have to check into rehab to cure yourself of Bleachorexia, there are some things you can do to help keep your whitened teeth white.

Seeing your dentist for professional whitening is the most effective and quickest way to lighten your teeth. The American Dental Association explains that the products that your dentist uses are a lot stronger than what you will find at your local pharmacy. If you are bleaching at home, make sure you choose a product from the ADA approved list.

Schedule an appointment with your dentist to see if you are a good candidate for professional tooth whitening and what types of tooth whitening procedures are available. Unlike those over the counter whiteners, the custom made bleaching trays and the gel prescribed by your dentist will get your teeth much whiter and will cost you less in the long run. Just ask yourself how much you have paid for tooth-bleaching products in the past and you will quickly realize that professional tooth whitening is more economical.

If your dentist has deemed you a good candidate for tooth whitening, you can either opt for in-house whitening, which takes about an hour with immediate results, or the less expensive procedure, custom made trays that you take home with results in about 4 to 6 weeks.

Chair side whitening will give you dramatically whiter teeth in sixty to ninety minutes. During the procedure, your dentist will apply up to 35% hydrogen peroxide bleach followed by heat or light to speed up the whitening process. Depending on the person, you may need more than one appointment with your dentist for this type of tooth whitening. You may experience some temporary gum irritation or tooth sensitivity after in office tooth whitening.

Home Tooth Whitening in the comfort of your own home, but supervised by your dentist is also available. After your dentist makes custom-made bleaching trays, you will be given a tooth bleaching gel, along with a hydrogen peroxide gel to use at home. It has a lower concentration than what is used for patients having in office tooth whitening, but you will still see better results than you would from strips or gels from the local pharmacy. All you have to do is wear the gel-filled trays at night or a couple of times during the day for white teeth in four to six weeks. You may experience some tooth or gum sensitivity that will cease once you stop whitening.

Keep your teeth white with a white diet meaning cut down on red wine, coffee, tea, and spices such as cumin, curry, and turmeric. Think of your teeth like the whites in your washing machine and treat them as such. If you do enjoy these types of foods, make sure that you brush or at least rinse after eating or drinking.

If you are showing signs of Bleachorexia, schedule an appointment with your dentist for tooth whitening today.

What You Need to Know About Gum Disease

Gum disease is reversible, but if left to its own devices, could lead to tooth loss. If you are experiencing swollen or red gums, bleeding after brushing and flossing or bad breath that just won’t go away, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your dentist.

Your dentist explains that gum disease affects millions of people across the country, but what used to be an epidemic in adults over the age of 35, is now becoming more common in teenagers and even children.

Bacteria and plaque invading the gum line cause gingivitis, and the more serious periodontal disease. In the early stages of gum disease, your gums will bleed easy when you brush and floss. They will also become inflamed, red, and swollen. During the gingivitis stage, tissue damage and irreversible bone loss have yet to occur.

If you do not see your dentist for a professional cleaning, gingivitis can advance to the more serious periodontal disease. People who have periodontal disease will see the inner layer of their gums and jawbone begins to pull away from the tooth or teeth allowing pockets to form. Because your body is fighting the bacteria, the plaque will begin to spread and grow underneath your gum line. That bacteria, plaque and tartar, will begin to break down your bone along with the connective tissue that is there to hold your teeth in place.

When periodontal disease progresses, those pockets that have formed between your teeth and gums will begin to deepen, weakening the bones that anchor your teeth in place. Unfortunately, in the majority of cases, this does lead to tooth loss. Gum disease is the number one reason that adults lose their teeth.

The primary reason for gum disease is poor oral hygiene. To prevent gingivitis, the American Dental Association recommends that you brush twice each day with fluoride toothpaste, floss once each day and eat a healthy well-balanced diet. The ADA also recommends that you visit your dentist twice a year or more often if you have fought gum disease in the past. If you are unsure what products to use, check out the ADA list of approved dental care products.

Other causes of gum disease include hormonal changes such as menopause, puberty, and pregnancy. Gingivitis and periodontitis can also occur if you are on certain medications, such as Procardia, Dilantin, and Adalat, as these medications can cause abnormal growths to occur in and around the gum tissue. If are suffering from a systemic disease you may also be more susceptible to gum disease. Smoking and chewing tobacco can also cause gum disease as can a family history of gingivitis or periodontal disease.

For more information regarding gum disease prevention, schedule an appointment with your dentist today. 

Nip Your Fear of the Dentist in the Bud with Sedation Dentistry

Often referred to as, “Sleep Dentistry,” Sedation Dentistry doesn’t actually put you to sleep unless you are having an invasive oral surgery such as a dental implant or an extraction.

Sedation Dentistry is used to help people overcome their fear of the dentist putting them in a relaxed state while still able to listen and adhere to the dentists commands.

Web MD explains that Sedation Dentistry is used to help people who experience anxiety when it comes to the dentist’s chair.

Some people are so phobic about dental checkups that they prefer to avoid treatment all together. Unfortunately, avoiding dental treatments can make problems worse. If you had taken care of that nagging toothache in the beginning, you might not need a Root Canal.

Sedation Dentistry is perfect for people who avoid the dentist as it can help relax you and ease the anxiety. Sedation Dentistry can be used for more invasive procedures such as an extraction or filling or for something as simple as a professional tooth cleaning.

If you opt for Sedation Dentistry, your dentist will use medication to help you relax. As mentioned above, unless you are being put under with general anesthesia, you will be awake during your dental procedure.

Four levels of Sedation Dentistry are used dependent on your fear level.

Minimal sedation, where you breathe nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is used with oxygen that you breathe through a mask that your dentist places over your nose. The gas is used to help you relax. Your dentist has the ability to control how much nitrous oxide you receive. After the procedure, the gas wears off quickly allowing you to drive yourself home after the dental treatment.

Moderate sedation, also called conscious or oral sedation requires you to be driven home after your dental therapy treatment. Depending on how much is administered, this type of sedation can range from minimal to moderate. The night before the procedure or on the day, you will be given a pill to take, which may make you drowsy or put you to sleep.

IV moderate sedation is administered through a vein and goes to work quite quickly. This type of sedation allows your dentist to adjust the levels of sedation throughout the procedure.

During deep sedation or general anesthesia, your dentist will give you medication that will make you nearly unconscious, or unconscious. This type of sedation is normally used for oral surgery procedures.

If you have been avoiding the dentist out of fear, schedule an appointment with your dentist for Sedation Dentistry. Leaving your bleeding gums or toothache to its own devices will only make things worse.

Foods that Can Help Sweeten Your Breath

Those raw onions may have been delicious piled high on that burger you had for lunch, but they certainly won’t do any favors for your breath. Most people have no idea that certain foods can mask what you eat, just keep in mind that garlic and onions are the most common instigators when it comes to halitosis or bad breath because they can stay in your system. Your dentist explains that garlic and onions contain oils that are carried from your bloodstream into your lungs giving everyone a sample of what you ate every time you exhale.

However, all is not lost as there are some foods you can eat that will give you an hour or two of relief until you are able to attack the bacteria in your mouth that is producing those foul odors.

According to your dentist, parsley is one of the best ways to treat bad breath and could be the reason that restaurants include a sprig of the herb on your plate. Cinnamon, spearmint, and peppermint are also good for halitosis thanks to the oils. Other herbs that work for bad breath include rosemary, eucalyptus, cardamom, cilantro, and coriander.

Skip the coffee and opt for a cup of green tea as it contains powerful antioxidants including catechin that can help ward off odor causing bacteria.

Recent studies show that the live active cultures contained in yogurt could help with that lingering odor from the garlic prawns that you had for lunch. Yogurt contains good bacteria that can overpower the foul smell caused by bad bacteria.

Pears and apples help saliva production. Saliva is essential when it comes to helping rebalance the ecology in your mouth. Other fruits that can help keep your bacteria in check include berries, melons, and oranges. Fruits that are loaded with Vitamin C not only help rid your mouth of bad bacteria, but can also fight against gum disease.

Carrots, cucumbers, and saliva encourage saliva production helping rid your mouth of odor causing bacteria.

Nuts and other almonds work like vegetables and fruit. According to your dentist, these tiny little toothbrushes help remove bacteria.

Other ways to prevent bad breath include drinking water and chewing sugarless gum. Water rinses your mouth while the gum promotes saliva production.

Of course, food is only a temporary fix. If you are constantly dealing with bad breath, it could have something to do with your oral health. Remember to brush twice and floss once each day, brush your tongue and use a fluoride mouthwash that is recommended by the American Dental Association, and don’t forget regularly scheduled checkups with your dentist.