Christmas Stocking Stuffers

http://www.oralanswers.com

Sources:

http://www.xlear.com

http://www.colgate.com

Posted in Community Service News, Health, Tooth Talk
Tagged Christmas, floss, stocking stuffers, Stockings, sugar free gum, tooth timer, toothbruhes, toothpaste, xylitol
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November 20, 2016

Basic Tongue Problems

Ann Clark, RDH

Basic Tongue Problems

The tongue is often known as the “strongest muscle in the body”. It is made up of a group of muscles and allows us to swallow, talk, taste, and clean the mouth. A healthy tongue is pink and covered with small bumps we call taste buds or papillae.

When your tongue experiences soreness or discoloration it can be frustrating due to its constant use. The majority of tongue problems are not serious and most can be cared for quickly; however, sometimes a discolored or painful tongue can be something more serious like a vitamin deficiency, oral cancer, or AIDS. Any persisting concerns should have medical advice.

White tongue:
-Leukoplakia: this condition causes excessive cell growth in the mouth causing white patches to grow. Although not always dangerous they can be a precursor to cancer so let your dentist be the judge. It can develop from irritation and is more often found in those using tobacco products.
-Oral thrush: also known as candidiasis. This is a yeast infection of the mouth. It shows up as white patches like cottage-cheese. It is more common in infants and the elderly, especially denture wearers or those with weakened immune systems. Medical conditions like diabetes, or inhaled steroids for asthma or lung disease can increase your risk. Antibiotics can kill off “good” bacteria resulting in this condition. Eating plain yogurt and medications can combat this infection.
-Oral lichen planus: this manifests itself as lacey-white lines on your tongue. Although hard to determine the cause, it often resolves on its own. Keeping up good hygiene and avoiding tobacco can help the healing process.
Other Conditions:
-Scarlet fever: contact a doctor if you have a red tongue along side a high fever. An antibiotic is necessary for this condition.
-Geographic tongue: this is known dentally as benign migratory glossitis and looks like a map pattern of reddish spots with a white border; their location often shifts. They are usually harmless and acidic foods can often sting. If discomfort persists you can be prescribed a topical medication.
-Red or strawberry tongue: many factors can cause a normally pink tongue to turn red or even look strawberry-like with enlarged, red taste buds. Vitamin deficiencies like B12 and folic acid can cause such an appearance.
-Black hairy tongue: although this looks scary it is typically non-serious. The small bumps on your tongue grow continually in your lifetime and in some people become excessively long, making it easier to harbor bacteria and cause a dark “hair-like” appearance to form. This is more commonly found in those with poor hygiene, individuals on antibiotics or chemotherapy and those with diabetes.
-Sore or bumpy tongue:
*Trauma can usually occur from biting or burning your tongue. Grinding and clenching can irritate the sides
your tongue.
*Canker sores or ulcers cause soreness. Their cause is unknown but stress can aid their development.
*Burning tongue syndrome can occur in post menopausal women.
*Smoking is an irritant to the tongue manifesting in soreness.
*Medical conditions like diabetes and anemia can result with a sore tongue.
*Enlarged papillae can result from irritated taste buds.
*Oral cancer- a spot that doesn’t resolve in a 2 week period needs to be checked. Many oral cancers do not
hurt in the early stages so don’t assume a lack of pain means you are okay.

Please consult your friendly dental office for an evaluation if any of these conditions arise. It’s better to be safe.

Want to learn more? Visit us at

Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/tongue-problem-basics-sore-or-discolored-tongue-and-tongue-bumps?page=3
University of Maryland Medical Center: “Tongue Problems”
University of Maryland Medical Center: “Oral Cancer”
American Dental Association: “Common Mouth Sores”
Familydoctor.org: “Mouth Problems”
Familydoctor.org “Canker Sores: What they are and what you can do about them”
Columbia University College of Dental Medicine: “Black Hairy Tongue”
Columbia University College of Dental Medicine: “Painful Papillae of the Tongue”

Posted in Health, Mouth Body Connection, Oral Hygiene
Tagged benign migratory glossitis, black hairy tongue, black tongue, candidiasis, geographic tongue, leukoplakia, Oral Cancer, oral lichen planus, oral thrush, red tongue, sore tongue, strawberry tongue, tongue, white tongue
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November 13, 2016

Electric Toothbrushes, Are They Worth it?

Wendy Parker, RDH

Electric Toothbrushes, Are They Worth it?

I was never a believer of electric toothbrushes until I graduated hygiene school and I was given one for free. Yes, I know, but I figured that since I was given one, I would at least give it a try and see what all the fuss was about. For years I would go between my manual toothbrush and my electric one, leaving the electric one home when I traveled. However, now, I have realized that I don’t leave home without it! At first, I thought I am a pretty good at brushing and don’t really need it, but found that mid-afternoon, my teeth would get the fuzzy feeling on them. When I totally committed and threw away my manual toothbrush, I found that no longer did I get the fuzzies on my teeth! Oh man, I was so excited!

So, the question remains…is it worth it? YES! And here’s the great thing about it….there is a 30 day money back guarantee from Oral-B and Sonicare that if you don’t like the product, you take it back and get your money back! These are the top two selling brands for electric toothbrushes and they are awesome! Both companies will tell you that their product is superior but when it comes down to it, it is a personal preference. So next time you’re in the dental isle, take a minute and compare them side by side and see which one looks more appealing to you. The average price is about $90-$120 dollars. (Please also asked us, when you come in to the office, we sell electric toothbrushes here for a great price!) Yes, it seems a lot for a toothbrush, but you will be amazed (and so will we) with the change in your oral health! So try one out and let’s keep on smiling!

Want to learn more? Visit us at

Posted in Oral Hygiene, Tooth Talk
Tagged dental hygienist, electric toothbrush, manual toothbrush, oral b, oral hygiene, powered toothbrush, Sonicare, toothbrush
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November 6, 2016

IV Sedation Dentistry

Andra Mahoney, BS RDH

IV Sedation Dentistry

It is very common that people are nervous at the dentist office. While we do everything we can to make your appointments run quickly and smoothly, sometimes people need a little extra help. We offer several different options to make your appointments easier. If applicable, you can be prescribed a medication to help calm your nerves. You can be given Nitrous Oxide, also know as laughing gas. And finally, IV conscious sedation. All of our Signature Dental Offices offer IV sedation dentistry.

What is IV Sedation?

IV stands for intravenous. Medication is administered through the veins and because of its rapid effects, many patients prefer this option.

How does IV Sedation work?

IV sedation medication is delivered through a very small needle placed in either the top of your hand or within your inner elbow.

Some people have a fear of needles, that is not uncommon. Due to that, some patients are not able to tolerate IV sedation. However, most people describe the sensation as a small pinch or prick. Also, dentists can further reduce the feeling by giving you an oral sedative beforehand and/or applying a topical anesthetic where the needle will be placed.

What are the benefits to IV sedation?

Just like other forms of sedation dentistry, IV sedation is designed to relax you and make you completely comfortable. IV sedation also eliminates your anxiety and pain. Although you may lie back in the dental chair with your eyes closed, you will not be asleep during your appointment and will still be able to respond to verbal cues from your dentist. Because you are completely relaxed, your dentist can accomplish more high-quality dentistry in less time. IV sedation can benefit you if you have a sensitive gag reflex or difficulty sitting in a dental chair for long periods of time. You’ll be so relaxed that you’ll be unaware of the sights, smells, and sounds of the dental office. Patients remember little-to-nothing of their appointment by the next day.

IV sedation gives your dentist optimal control of the amount of medication administered and allows them to readily increase or decrease your level of sedation as needed, quickly and comfortably.

An additional benefit of IV sedation includes faster onset of the sedation medications, meaning you’ll be able to feel the effects of the medication quickly.

What dental procedures are recommended for IV sedation?

Mainly, people prefer to use it for taking out wisdom teeth and appointments that need to have a lot of treatment accomplished in one sitting. Those that have high dental anxiety also prefer IV sedation. However, IV sedation can be an option for any treatment that needs to done!

What is the recovery time after IV sedation?

There is no set amount of recovery time because every patient is different. However, many patients begin to feel more alert soon after the IV medication is stopped. You should not drive or operate heavy machinery for at least 24 hours after the end of your appointment. If you experience any nausea after treatment, your dentist can usually provide a prescription to help. Patients are encouraged to sleep and drink plenty of water and clear fluids for the remainder of the day. In regards to recovery from the actual dental work itself, your dentist will give you individualized instructions for aftercare. Many sedation patients report significantly reduced pain levels the day after their treatment. There are multiple theories for why this is, but the common thought is that because a sedation patient is relaxed and not tense during their appointment, the dentist can often use less force as well as access the mouth more easily.

Does Dental Insurance cover IV sedation?

Patients have different insurance plans, so there is no single answer. Generally speaking, most dental insurance plans do cover part or sometimes even all of the cost of IV sedation. It’s best to check with your insurance provider prior to your appointment to confirm your plan’s benefits.

If this is something that interests you, your dentist can review your particular needs and your medical history to see if you are a good candidate.

Want to learn more? Visit us at

Sources:

Welcome

Posted in Mouth Body Connection, What is...
Tagged anxiety, dental, dentist, IV sedation, nervous, sedation dentistry, what is
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October 30, 2016

Halloween Sugar Facts

Katie Moynihan, BS RDH

Halloween Sugar Facts

Happy Halloween! Although Halloween is a fun holiday to dress up in your favorite costume, it also comes with consuming large amounts of candy and sugar. According to the US Census Bureau, the average American eats 25 pounds of candy every year with most of that consumed during Halloween time. All that sugar hidden in a small piece of candy can add up quickly. If you or your child eats 12 treats, that is equivalent to about 30 packets of sugar. It is important to take a closer look at the nutritional facts before indulging as it is guaranteed to spook you!

Halloween Candy Comparison

Almond Joy, Snack Size – 80 calories, 8 g sugar
Butterfinger, Fun Size – 100 calories, 10 g sugar
Gummie Bears (Haribo) – 8 pieces, around 65 calories, 21 g sugar
Heath Bar, Snack Size – 76 calories, 9 g sugar
Hershey Kisses – Average 25 calories, 2-3 g sugar each kiss
Hershey’s Miniature Bars – Average 42 calories, 4 g sugar each bar
Jolly Rancher – a serving of three Jolly Ranchers is 70 calories, 11 g of sugar.
Kit Kat, Fun size – 60 calories, 6 g sugar
Peanut M & Ms – Snack Sixe – 5 g of fat and 9 g of sugar.
Almond Joy – Fun Size – 80 calories for a mini-Almond Joy or Mounds.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, Snack Size – 110 calories, 11 g sugar per peanut butter cup
Skittles, Fun Size – 60 calories, 11 g sugar
Smarties – 1 roll, 25 calories, 6 g sugar
Snickers, Fun Size – 80 calories, 4 g of fat and 8 g of sugar
Sour Patch Kids, Mini Bag – 50 calories, 10 g sugar
Starburst, Fun Size – 2 candies, 40 calories, 6 g sugar
Three Musketeers Minis – 64 calories, 2 g of fat and 11 g of sugar
Tootsie Pops & Charms Blow Pops – 60 calories, 13 g of sugar.
Twix Minis, 1 bar – 50 calories, 5 g sugar
Twizzlers (Strawberry Twists) – 2 pieces, 50 calories and 6 g sugar

We all know it is nearly impossible to avoid Halloween candy altogether; however, there are some simple ways in which you can minimize the sugar overload after trick-or-treating is over. Always be sure to brush away the treats! Whether your child eats one piece of candy or ten, it is important to brush properly to prevent tooth decay. Make a candy plan to avoid going overboard with candy consumption. Set a limit on the number of candy that can be eaten each day, or a limit on the number of houses that they can visit. A candy swap is a great way to let your child enjoy the fun of trick-or-treating without overloading on sweets. You can trade small amounts of candy for a non-sugar reward such as a toy or sticker. We hope these tips will get you on track to a happier and healthier Halloween!

Want to learn more? Visit us at

http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/conditions/cavities/article/how-to-prevent-cavities-from-halloween-candy-1013

Sources:

http://www.childrenshospitaloakland.org/main/news/halloween-candy-calorie-and-sugar-comparison-212.aspx

Posted in Community Service News, Mouth Body Connection, Tooth Talk
Tagged candy, caries, cavities, dentist, halloween, sugar
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October 23, 2016

Oral Parafunctional Habits

Becky Larson, RDH

Oral Parafunctional Habits

We all need to move our jaw and teeth to do normal everyday activities such eating, talking, and breathing. However, some individuals use their teeth and/or jaw for other purposes, which are not considered normal activities. A para-functional habit is the habitual exercise of a body part in a way other than the most common use of that body part. Some oral para-functional habits include clenching or grinding the teeth (bruxism), tongue thrusting, and thumb sucking. Oral para-functional habits can cause problems with the teeth and/or jaw and should be addressed as soon as they are discovered.

Clenching or grinding of the teeth is referred to as bruxism. Teeth are meant to clench and grind during the process of mastication (eating) but not in the absence of food. Occasional teeth grinding doesn’t usually cause harm. However, grinding on a regular basis can cause extensive damage to the teeth as well as other oral health complications. Grinding can be caused by stress and anxiety but occurs most often during sleep. Because of this, most people are unaware they grind their teeth. Symptoms of bruxism include a dull, constant headache and/or a sore jaw upon waking up. Usually a spouse or loved one will also hear the grinding at night. Your dentist can examine your teeth and jaw for signs of bruxism. Chronic teeth grinding can result in tooth fractures, loosening of the teeth, tooth loss, or teeth worn down to stumps. In these cases the dentist may place bridges, crowns, implants or perform root canals. Severe grinding can cause pain in the temporomandibular joint (jaw joint). Wearing a mouth guard while you sleep can prevent excessive wear on the teeth. Having a custom fit mouth guard is the best option as it is made from impressions your own teeth. While a mouth guard does not stop the clenching and grinding from happening, it prevents wear on the teeth by putting a barrier between the biting surfaces of the teeth. Usually mouth guards will last a few years before needing to be replaced.

Tongue thrusting is where the tongue protrudes near or through the front teeth during swallowing, speech, or while the tongue is at rest. The correct position of the tongue should be on the roof of the mouth (or palate) when swallowing. Symptoms of tongue thrusting include:

Dental malocclusion (teeth don’t align correctly)
Poor facial development
Mouth breathing
Periodontal problems
Other oral para-functional habits (bruxism and/or thumb sucking)
Drooling
Limited tolerance to food textures or limited diet
Difficulty swallowing pills
High palatal arch

Tongue thrusting can also be related to thumb sucking. Children often begin sucking thumbs or fingers at an early age. It is a reflex that provides comfort and relaxation and as such, many children practice this habit while sleeping. While this habit is generally stopped around 2-4 years of age, some children continue thumb or finger sucking into elementary school. Most dentists will advise to break this habit before permanent teeth begin to erupt. Pacifiers are great substitutes for thumbs and fingers because they can be taken away at the necessary time. Both tongue thrusting and thumb sucking can be detrimental to the development of facial structures, jaw and teeth.

Please talk with your dentist if you are experiencing problems with any of these para-functional habits. He or she can recommend treatment to help prevent un-necessary tooth damage.

Want to learn more? Visit us at

http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/parafunction

Sources:

http://orthowny.com/parafunctional_habits/

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/teeth-grinding-bruxism#1

http://tonguethrust.weebly.com/

Posted in Health, Mouth Body Connection
Tagged clenching, grinding, thumb sucking, tongue thrusting
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October 16, 2016

Cold Sores

Lindsay Olsen, RDH

Cold Sores

What Are They?

Cold sores and fever blisters are caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). This virus is passed from person to person by saliva (either directly, or by drinking from the same glass or cup) or by skin contact. Cold sores usually appear as clusters of tiny blisters on the lip. About 8 out of 10 people have the virus that causes cold sores. Most people are first infected before they are 10 years old.

After this first infection, the virus remains dormant (inactive) in the nerves of the face. In some people, the virus becomes active again from time to time. When this happens, cold sores appear. HSV-1 can get active again because of a cold or fever.

Stress also can lead to a cold sore outbreak. This includes mental and emotional stress, as well as dental treatment, illness, trauma to the lips or sun exposure.

Symptoms

Cold sores appear when HSV-1 is reactivated later in life. They may occur after a period of illness or stress, poor nutrition or sunlight exposure. Sometimes there’s no known reason. Dental procedures that stretch the lip may occasionally trigger the virus.

The border of the lip is the most common place that these sores appear. They may occasionally occur inside the mouth, too. This is more likely in people who have weakened immune systems or other medical problems.

The first sign of a cold sore is a tingling, burning or itching. This is followed by swelling and redness. Within 24 to 48 hours, one or more tiny blisters (“fever blisters”) appear. These blisters pop and form painful sores (“cold sores”). The sores eventually are covered by crusts, which look like scabs. The crusts are shed and form again while the sore heals.

Expected Duration

When you are first infected with HSV-1, symptoms can last for 7 to 14 days. Cold sores usually crust within 4 days and heal completely within 8 to 10 days.

Prevention

To help to prevent a first herpes infection in children do not let them be kissed by anyone who has cold sores, fever blisters or signs of a first herpes infection. However, HSV-1 is very common. Most children will be infected by the time they reach adulthood. Several different vaccines are being developed against HSV (types 1 and 2), but these appear to protect only people who have never been infected.

There is evidence that using sunscreen on your lips will prevent cold sores caused by sun exposure. Antiviral medicines may prevent cold sores from forming. In certain situations, your dentist or physician may prescribe these medicines. If you expect to encounter a known trigger, a medicine taken in advance can decrease the chance of a cold sore.

Treatment

Some medicines can help cold sores heal faster. They also relieve pain and discomfort. The medicines are acyclovir (Zovirax), famciclovir (Famvir) and valacyclovir (Valtrex). These drugs cannot get rid of the virus. You need to take them each time you can feel a cold sore coming on. Once you have blisters on your lip, the medicines will not help much.

These drugs also can stop cold sores from popping up in the first place. Some people take them when they know they will be under stress.

Keep the area clean and apply lip balm. Try not to touch the area. Do not pick at the crusts over the sores. Avoid kissing anyone while you have blisters and sores. Cold sores can spread through kissing and by sharing things that touch the lips and the skin around them, such as spoons, forks, glasses and towels.

If you have reoccurring cold sores, please inquire with your dentist, or dental hygienist about laser therapy.

What Should I Do If I Have an Active Cold Sore and I am Scheduled for a Dental Appointment?

Please call the office, and reschedule your dental appointment within 48 hours notice. If one has an active lesion, it can easily be spread to other areas of the patient’s mouth, or lips. Additionally, if your dental professional interacts with an active lesion during your dental appointment, the virus will travel through aerosols and can infect your dental professional and others in the office.

Want to learn more? Visit us at

Sources:

http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/conditions/mouth-sores-and-infections/article/cold-sores-and-fever-blisters

Posted in Health, Mouth Body Connection
Tagged cold sores, fever blisters, Herpes Simplex, herpes simplex virus 1, HSV1, stress
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October 10, 2016

Essential Oils

Lora Cook, RDH

Essential Oils

Recently several of my patients have asked me some questions about essential oils. To be honest I have a very limited knowledge of the subject. I hate when I don’t have all the answers for my patients. So I thought what better way to learn more about the subject then to write about it. However, let me preface this information with a reminder that while these essential oils can provide effective preventive and palliative care, it is not a substitute for dental care. If you have a cavity or a toothache please do not hesitate to give us a call. Periodontal disease and cavities left untreated will only become worse over time.

As dental professionals we rely on tested clinical research and published blinded research studies to substantiate any therapeutic claims and demonstrate effectiveness. However with essential oils there is little published research, because several problems present in trying to conduct research on essential oils. First, essential oils are not standardized. Synthetic Pharmaceuticals are reproduced to be identical, where as essential oils cannot be produced to be identical. Second, while conducting research on essential oils it is difficult to gage for individual differences in how the oils affect people. Also little funding is provided for research on homeopathic remedies. More research studies are done for synthetic therapeutics because these follow the usual scientific research path.

The Essential oils that I would like to talk about are:

1.) Cinnamon oil

A.) Cinnamon bark oil

B.) Cinnamon leaf oil

2.)Tea Tree oil

3.)Myrrh

4.)Clove oil

5.)Peppermint oil

1. Cinnamon Leaf Oil: Leaf oil is primarily useful for palliative care. It may be effective in reducing pain and inflammation

Cinnamon Bark Oil: bark oil has antibacterial qualities, has been shown to effectively destroy 21 different types of bacteria.

How to use: You can rinse with diluted cinnamon oil after brushing, or put some on your tooth paste. Cinnamon oil is very strong and should not be ingested. Also some people have been known to have allergic reactions to cinnamon oil, so test in a small area of your mouth first.

2. Tea Tree Oil: This oil is effective for antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral properties.

If you have a allergy to celery or thyme, you should not use this oil. Also just like the cinnamon oil, tea tree oil is very strong and should not be ingested.

How to use: There are wooded toothpicks that have been impregnated with tea tree oil. These can be found at a health food store, or purchased on-line. You can also mix a small amount with your toothpaste, then brush.

3. Myrrh: This is effective for mouth sores.

How to use: Mix 1 to 2 drops in eight ounce glass of warm water, swish for thirty seconds then spit.

4. Clove Oil: This is effective for toothaches, also known to sooth sore gums.

How to use: Mix one drop with a plant based carrier oil, olive oil wood be a good carrier oil to use. Then apply with a cotton swab.

For gum tissue and other oral tissues mix 1 to 2 drops in eight ounce glass of warm water, swish for thirty seconds then spit.

5. Peppermint Oil: This oil is effective in treating bad breath, it also has mild anesthetic properties.

How to use: Mix two drops of peppermint oil with two cups of distilled water. Shake we’ll before each use, swish a mouthful for one minute then spit.

There are other essential oils that are effective for oral health that I did not include in this overview: basil, almond, and lavender, just to name a few. I hope that these basic guidelines can shed a bit more light on the subject. All essential oils should not be ingested, and always consult your medical physician before starting any type of therapy at home.

Want to learn more? Visit us at

http://www.livestrong.com/article/284574-cinnamon-oil-for-cavities/

Sources:

http://www.teatree.co.il/en/Files/oral.pdf

http://www.intelligentdental.com/2010/11/30/how-to-use-tea-tree-oil-for-dental-health/

http://birchhillhappenings.com/mouth.htm

http://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/myrrh-oil.asp

Posted in Gums, Health, Oral Hygiene
Tagged cinnamon oil, clove oil, essential oils, gums, myrrh oil, Oral Health, peppermint oil, tea tree oil
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October 3, 2016

Dentures and Partial Dentures

Amanda Orvis, RDH

Dentures and Partial Dentures

Removable dental appliances such as dentures and partial dentures require daily care as well as regular dental visits to keep them functioning properly. Denture and partial denture wearers need to pay close attention to the health of their mouths. Mouths should be brushed with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day, with or without teeth present. Partial denture wearers should pay close attention to the remaining teeth that their partials fit on to. Plaque and food debris can become trapped on or near the clasps that keep the dentures in place, and that plaque can lead to tooth decay or other dental issues.

Caring for Dentures or Partial Dentures

Remove and rinse dentures or partials after eating.
Rinse your mouth after removing your dentures.
Gently clean your dentures or partials at least once a day using a non-abrasive denture cleaner or mild dish soap. Avoid using toothpaste on your dentures as they are too abrasive and can cause small imperfections in your denture that can trap plaque and bacteria.
Soak your dentures overnight to keep them moist and to retain their correct shape. Always follow the instructions on the soaking solutions.
Always rinse your dentures after soaking them before putting them back into your mouth.
Maintain regular dental visits. Talk with your dentist or dental hygienist about the proper interval for your dental visits.

If you have any questions or concerns about your dentures or partial dentures, please call our office and schedule an appointment.

Want to learn more? Visit us at

Posted in Gums, Health, Mouth Body Connection
Tagged cleaning dentures, dentist, denture care, dentures, partial dentures, partials
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September 18, 2016

Myths of Dentistry

Cortney Davis, RDH

Myths of Dentistry

It’s no myth that to some dental work can be scary sometimes. Statistics show that around 12 percent of the population in the U.S. says they are anxious when it comes to visiting the dentist, and many don’t know how to take care of their oral health properly. With the overwhelming anxiety and stress build up around dentists and dental health, it’s not shocking that people may have made up or heard several dental myths over the years. People then tend to believe these myths and decide not go to the dentist regularly, rather than find out the truth. Having false information can be harmful to your health, so let’s talk about some of the common myths which you may believe yourself or have heard.

Myth #1- As long as I brush my teeth twice a day or don’t have tooth pain, I don’t need to go to the dentist.

Fact: While brushing twice a day and flossing once daily is Important, it is not enough. It is also important to get routine cleanings. During cleanings, the hygienist will clean the hard to reach areas, will make sure your gums are healthy, and will educate patients on proper home care. Dentists will also use x-rays and visual exams to make sure a patient doesn’t have any problems with their teeth or gums. Many don’t know this, but you don’t always have tooth pain when you have a tooth problem or gum disease, and if left untreated a tooth problem and unhealthy gum tissue will only get worse and lead to more serious problems. That’s why it is so important to come in for routine check-ups.

Myth #2 The dentist only wants my money

Fact: While some dental procedures and treatments can seem costly, they are completely worth it. As stated above, if dental problems are left untreated for a period, the treatment needed typically becomes more extensive which will cost more than a simple cleaning every six months. If a dentist can catch the signs of infection early, treatment will be minimal and less costly.

Myth #3 Bleaching your teeth can damage them.

Fact: Bleaching is a popular service that allows patients to get whiter smiles faster. Scientific studies have shown that using peroxide to whiten teeth is both safe and efficient. Although bleaching can cause some sensitivity when a patient is using it, bleaching gel is safe concerning damage of the structure of teeth; it merely makes teeth whiter and brighter.

Myth #4. If gums are bleeding, brushing and flossing should be avoided.

Fact: The exact opposite is true. Regular brushing and flossing are essential to remove plaque build-up which causes bleeding gums. Bleeding gums is a sign of gum brokerage, and more care actually must be done to avoid worse oral problems.

Myth #5 Baby teeth aren’t important, they will fall out anyway.

Fact: Yes, eventually all of your child’s 20 baby teeth will fall out eventually. However, many serve important functions for your child’s development. Baby teeth are known as the natural space maintainers for adult teeth and if a child loses a tooth too early due to dental problems, they could cause crowding for adult teeth. The health of your child’s baby teeth can also affect the health of their adult teeth. If you leave dental decay in a baby tooth untreated, it could eventually cause your child pain, abscesses, swelling, and affect the adult tooth developing under the baby tooth. Also, if the infection got worse it could even spread to other parts of the child’s body.

Myth #6 I shouldn’t go to the dentist because I am pregnant

Fact: A dental check-up is recommended during pregnancy. Although many women make it nine months with no dental discomfort, pregnancy can make conditions worse or create new ones due to hormonal changes and changes in eating habits. Regular checkups and good dental health habits can help keep you and your baby healthy. Local anesthetics and x-rays are okay during pregnancy although they are to be done only when necessary.

Want to learn more? Visit us at