Halloween is all about costumes and treats, and fun. But when those trick-or-treat bags come home, often the “sugar wars” begin. All that candy to be eaten! How do parents set limits? Is it OK to let the kids splurge on their collected loot? Children’s dental care is on the minds of us all at this time of year.
Did you know that you should brush your teeth for at least two minutes? That’s right-120 seconds or 30 seconds for each quadrant of your mouth. Many of my patients want to maintain a healthy smile through good oral hygiene – brushing. So, I get lots of questions about how to pick the right toothbrush.
Did you know that dental plaque – a sticky substance made of bacteria, mucus, and food – is continually forming on our teeth? It’s that slimy coating that you can feel by running your tongue over the front of your teeth. If you don’t remove it with thorough daily brushing and cleaning between teeth, it can damage your teeth and gums.
Does taking a breath of the cold air through your mouth makes your teeth hurt? Do cold beverages or food give your teeth a sharp ache? Maybe even foods that are sweet or sour are a problem. If any of these situations apply, you probably have sensitive teeth.
Thanks to improvements in dental care, members of the baby boom generation have a much better chance of keeping their natural teeth than previous generations. Even though, as you age the daily wear and tear on your teeth does take a toll, there is plenty you can do to maintain your healthy smile.
I have patients who experience gum recession. It’s not uncommon – about 50% of adults deal with some amount of receding gums and the possibility of sensitivity and decay. Unfortunately, even beautiful restorations and crowns are affected, and many people are left with an older–looking and unattractive smile.
Did you know that men are far more likely than women to neglect their oral health – in some cases, for years? Lots of men don’t brush and floss on a regular basis and avoid dental visits for cleanings and exams. Some of the healthiest and fittest guys are guilty.
A perfect smile is accentuated by a perfect set of teeth – pearly white, well-shaped, and properly spaced. It’s what we all want. But we’re not always fortunate enough to be gifted by such perfection. The answer to help one achieve that perfection is often braces. Though common, braces need to be thoroughly understood in order to best utilize and benefit from them.
When parents teach their children to brush and floss on a regular basis, those kids are on their way to healthy teeth. Summer is the perfect time to teach them another habit – healthy snacking. With all the fresh fruit and vegetables available, children learn to substitute healthy snacks for candy and other sugary options.
In my family practice, the end of the summer is a busy time for back-to-school dental exams. I see parents who are more well informed about their children’s dental care than ever before. They help their children develop healthy daily routines of brushing and flossing and provide a healthy diet. But many are looking for additional ways to prevent cavities. One tool available is the dental sealant.
