It’s summer time but a local dentist reminds kids it’s not a time when healthy tooth hygiene should be ignored.
A press release from Schmidt Public Affairs on behalf of Dr. D Ray Gifford, a dentist at Kool Smiles, sent a press release with tips to keep up dental health throughout summer vacation.
Healthy breakfast: For many kids, summer means later find-your-own breakfast mornings. Choosing from a selection of healthier breakfast items such as seasonal fruit as opposed to sugar-filled cereals could help maintain a healthy smile.
Soft drinks: Limit soft drink intake. Encourage kids to drink ice water with a lemon or orange slice and discourage consumption of sodas.
Brush regularly: Make sure kids brush after every meal and before bedtime. A tooth brush should be the last thing in a child’s mouth before going to sleep.
Pack healthy: Whether it’s a trip to the beach or the neighborhood pool, pack your own healthy snacks. Avoiding greasy and sugary foods is better for the body and the teeth.
Brushing routines: Eating three healthy meals, brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once can help keep up dental hygiene.
Schedule a check-up: Summer is an ideal time to schedule a dental appointment. Checkups should be done every six months.
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Lubbock Online | Lubbock Avalanche-Journal
Sunday, July 5, 2015
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Dental Care for Your Kids! Children vs. Toothbrushes
The key to getting your children to enjoy brushing is to make it fun. Kids are constantly seeking a source of entertainment and, let’s be honest, there’s an endless amount of things that are more entertaining than brushing your teeth.
Here are several tips that may help make the brushing routine a little more entertaining for your kiddos.
First and foremost, brush your teeth together with your little ones and show excitement while doing so. Kids have fun mimicking their parents, but at the same time you’ll be setting an example for them to follow.
Another good way to incorporate some fun is to let them use the toothbrush as a toy. Show them how to brush their doll, teddy bear or action figures teeth. This will give you a chance to explain the importance of oral hygiene while they have fun at the same time.
You can also introduce a brush-your-teeth story time. When’s the last time you met a child that wasn’t up for a good story? Just make sure your story involves something like a group of little “sugar monsters” who are trying to eat holes in your teeth. If a boring tooth-brushing suddenly morphs into a mission to help save their strong, white teeth, then they will be much more entertained throughout the process.
Another thing you can do is instruct your kiddos to brush like a choo-choo train (big, round motions that produce lots of bubbles). This will teach them the most efficient way to clean their teeth, but also add a bit of silliness to the process. You could have a contest to see whose choo-choo train produces the most bubbles.
The possibilities are endless. Just use your imagination and you’ll have your kids excited to brush in no time. Always remember that no matter how well your child brushes, they still need regular dentist appointments every six months.
Source:
http://www.woodlandsonline.com/blps/article.cfm?page=2526
NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS FOR A WHITER SMILE
As 2015 rolls around, many people are readying their upcoming New Year's resolutions. While the most popular resolution tends to revolve around weight loss, good smiles play a huge role in a better self-image. In fact, studies show that white teeth can make you look more attractive and even five years younger. Talk about a confidence boost!
Check out these resolutions that'll brighten your smile:
1. Use a teeth whitening kit
The quickest road to flashier pearly whites is with a TheraBreath Dental Professional Whitening Kit. TheraBreath's whitening products are safe, comfortable and effective. It is one of the strongest safe concentrations available for home whitening, and while there are a lot of whitening products on the market, none are quite like this kit. Active ingredients lift stains from the enamel and provide an overall whiter appearance. One of the main ingredients is carbamide peroxide (urea peroxide), an oxidizer that serves as a disinfectant and bleaching agent.
2. Drink plenty of water during workouts
With this resolution, you can kill two birds with one stone by hitting the gym and keeping a good grin. Recent research suggests intense exercise is associated with poor oral health. The main culprits behind this link are dry mouth, which results from breathing through one's mouth during vigorous workouts, and sports drinks, which often coat dental enamel with sugar. To prevent tooth decay as a consequence, be sure to gulp down plenty of H2O during your exercise sessions.
3. Schedule a visit to the dentist
Roughly 1 in 3 Americans did not visit the dentist within the last year, according to a 2013 Gallup poll. The American Dental Association advises seeing the dentist at least once every six months. Regular dental visits are key to avoiding problems like plaque or tartar buildup, tooth decay and gum disease. They also present a great opportunity to ask about oral health concerns such as tonsil stones and dry mouth, which are side effects of many prescription medicines.
4. Floss once a day
People are generally pretty good about brushing their teeth twice a day, but flossing is sort of like the neglected stepchild in the oral care family. The main misconception here is that dental floss is redundant and therefore unnecessary, attacking the same plaque and food debris as brushing. However, the thread reaches nooks and crannies between teeth that a brush cannot access. Step up your oral health game by flossing once a day, whether it's during your morning or nighttime routine.
How to make resolutions that'll last
The key to resolutions that you'll actually fulfill is to make them as specific and goal-oriented as possible. For example, instead of simply saying "I want to lose weight," a more effective plan might be, "I will go to the gym five times a week and eat a nutritionist-recommended diet to drop 15 pounds in six months."
The same idea holds true for dental resolutions. Take our suggestions and personalize them to your own goals!
Source:
Check out these resolutions that'll brighten your smile:
1. Use a teeth whitening kit
The quickest road to flashier pearly whites is with a TheraBreath Dental Professional Whitening Kit. TheraBreath's whitening products are safe, comfortable and effective. It is one of the strongest safe concentrations available for home whitening, and while there are a lot of whitening products on the market, none are quite like this kit. Active ingredients lift stains from the enamel and provide an overall whiter appearance. One of the main ingredients is carbamide peroxide (urea peroxide), an oxidizer that serves as a disinfectant and bleaching agent.
2. Drink plenty of water during workouts
With this resolution, you can kill two birds with one stone by hitting the gym and keeping a good grin. Recent research suggests intense exercise is associated with poor oral health. The main culprits behind this link are dry mouth, which results from breathing through one's mouth during vigorous workouts, and sports drinks, which often coat dental enamel with sugar. To prevent tooth decay as a consequence, be sure to gulp down plenty of H2O during your exercise sessions.
3. Schedule a visit to the dentist
Roughly 1 in 3 Americans did not visit the dentist within the last year, according to a 2013 Gallup poll. The American Dental Association advises seeing the dentist at least once every six months. Regular dental visits are key to avoiding problems like plaque or tartar buildup, tooth decay and gum disease. They also present a great opportunity to ask about oral health concerns such as tonsil stones and dry mouth, which are side effects of many prescription medicines.
4. Floss once a day
People are generally pretty good about brushing their teeth twice a day, but flossing is sort of like the neglected stepchild in the oral care family. The main misconception here is that dental floss is redundant and therefore unnecessary, attacking the same plaque and food debris as brushing. However, the thread reaches nooks and crannies between teeth that a brush cannot access. Step up your oral health game by flossing once a day, whether it's during your morning or nighttime routine.
How to make resolutions that'll last
The key to resolutions that you'll actually fulfill is to make them as specific and goal-oriented as possible. For example, instead of simply saying "I want to lose weight," a more effective plan might be, "I will go to the gym five times a week and eat a nutritionist-recommended diet to drop 15 pounds in six months."
The same idea holds true for dental resolutions. Take our suggestions and personalize them to your own goals!
Source:
Thursday, December 25, 2014
Dental Care For Your Puppy: Tips
You just got home a new pup! Like every new owner, you are as excited about its well being and have been following all the possible routine for its health. You have even started buying food that’s nutritious; you just set a schedule for walks along with your new pet. It’s all good. You scheduled your first check up with the vet who gave your new member an injection that will save it from millions of diseases.
All sounds good but have you noticed that this new pup you just got home is just like a new born baby. Its teeth, like normal baby, are teething and he is biting into everything that he can see. Yes, it’s time you visited the dentist and went through a routine dental check up. It is essential given your pup will have fully grown teeth in no time and then the infections begin. You will never know the pain, as your pup will not be able to express it to you. So, you will need to take care of these things right from the beginning.
All sounds good but have you noticed that this new pup you just got home is just like a new born baby. Its teeth, like normal baby, are teething and he is biting into everything that he can see. Yes, it’s time you visited the dentist and went through a routine dental check up. It is essential given your pup will have fully grown teeth in no time and then the infections begin. You will never know the pain, as your pup will not be able to express it to you. So, you will need to take care of these things right from the beginning.
Along with your visit to the dentist, make sure you follow a few dental care tips for pups which will make its teeth healthy.
Make Him Accept Mouth Handling
Early on, make sure you make your pup understands that it is fine to have his mouth opened and inspected by another person. This way the dental check up would be a normal routine. Don’t take off special time as it is not going to be possible. Whenever your pup walks into your lap, just open the mouth and check him. If he is uneasy or uncomfortable, keep saying words of appreciation which would keep him focused on your voice.
Brushing Your Pup’s Teeth
A canine toothbrush combined with some amazing strategy can get you started with brushing your pup’s teeth. A double-headed brush which has bristles at 45 degree angle will work perfectly for brushing your pup’s teeth. Just like kids, pups tend to resist any attempts at brushing. You will have to be easy going and a little patient making it a pleasant experience for him. Don’t overdo brushing and find a time when he is idle to perform this task. Initially just do it a few times. Extend it once your pup is used to it.
Start Early
When you receive your pup, ideally that’s the time to start training him with dental care! It’s better to begin this activity sooner as he would be used to it by the time he starts growing and won’t show much resistance then. It would be habitual. Starting late would only mean more resistance and more problems in getting him to brush his teeth.
The Right Paste
Human teeth are different from a pup’s teeth. So, make sure you don’t use your toothpaste on your pup. It won’t help him much. You could shop for some dog’s toothpaste. Visit a pet store and find a paste that does not contain minerals, like fluoride, which are poisonous to the dog.
Chewing On Toys
Exercising your pup’s teeth seems like a good idea. There are many synthetic bones and soft toys available in the market. When your pup is teething, get him these things and allow him to chew on them. Make sure the objects are safe as they would help your pup’s teeth to grow stronger.
Regular Visits To Vet
If you notice that your dog’s breath suddenly smells foul or if there has been a sudden change in the pup’s eating habits, you should visit the vet. In any case, you should have a regular appointment with the dentist so that your pup's dental health is in good shape.
Source:
Seniors keeping teeth longer than ever, tips for keeping it up
Today, approximately 75 percent of senior citizens over age 65 have kept some or all of their teeth - a record -thanks to better preventive measures like community water fluoridation and daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). The group offers some additional tips for keeping this dental progress going.
They point out that advances in dental care have also allowed dentists to save teeth that would have been lost in the past. But, maintaining a healthy mouth is a life-long goal, even for those who wear dentures, as it helps to prevent other health problems.
It can also be health for the pocket book, since dental care is not covered by Medicare.
An example of the health threat was pointed out in a recent article in the Journal of Dental Research. A study found that very elderly adults (ages 85 and older) in community-living settings who slept in dentures were at a higher risk of developing pneumonia because bacteria from the mouth could be inhaled into the lungs.
The ADA advises all people that bacteria that is allowed to linger in the mouth can cause tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss, which is why good dental health is important at any age.
For the elderly, and some seniors, caretakers can make all the difference in helping them to maintain healthy dental habits that can also benefit overall health.
Here are the ADA’s top dental tips for seniors and their caregivers:
● Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, plus floss teeth once a day. If arthritis or dexterity is an issue, an electric toothbrush may be helpful.
● Clean dentures and gums daily; always remove dentures at night.
● Eat a healthy diet.
● Schedule and keep regular dental visits.
● Talk to the dentist about the signs and symptoms of dry mouth, which can be caused by medications, and may lead to tooth decay.
● Ask your dentist for written instructions about any specific at-home care routine that’s recommended for easy reference at home.
● Look for dental products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. When you see the ADA Seal on a package, you can be sure the product inside has been scientifically evaluated to be safe and effective.
Source;
http://seniorjournal.com/NEWS/Health/2014/20141218_Seniors-keeping-teeth-longer-than-ever,-tips-for-keeping%20-it-up.htm
They point out that advances in dental care have also allowed dentists to save teeth that would have been lost in the past. But, maintaining a healthy mouth is a life-long goal, even for those who wear dentures, as it helps to prevent other health problems.
It can also be health for the pocket book, since dental care is not covered by Medicare.
An example of the health threat was pointed out in a recent article in the Journal of Dental Research. A study found that very elderly adults (ages 85 and older) in community-living settings who slept in dentures were at a higher risk of developing pneumonia because bacteria from the mouth could be inhaled into the lungs.
The ADA advises all people that bacteria that is allowed to linger in the mouth can cause tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss, which is why good dental health is important at any age.
For the elderly, and some seniors, caretakers can make all the difference in helping them to maintain healthy dental habits that can also benefit overall health.
Here are the ADA’s top dental tips for seniors and their caregivers:
● Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, plus floss teeth once a day. If arthritis or dexterity is an issue, an electric toothbrush may be helpful.
● Clean dentures and gums daily; always remove dentures at night.
● Eat a healthy diet.
● Schedule and keep regular dental visits.
● Talk to the dentist about the signs and symptoms of dry mouth, which can be caused by medications, and may lead to tooth decay.
● Ask your dentist for written instructions about any specific at-home care routine that’s recommended for easy reference at home.
● Look for dental products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. When you see the ADA Seal on a package, you can be sure the product inside has been scientifically evaluated to be safe and effective.
Source;
http://seniorjournal.com/NEWS/Health/2014/20141218_Seniors-keeping-teeth-longer-than-ever,-tips-for-keeping%20-it-up.htm
Monday, December 15, 2014
Cheap DIY whitening 'can leave you with teeth of an 80-year-old': Some products are so strong they can strip away enamel
They promise a perfect smile at a fraction of the price of professional treatments.
But cheap tooth-whitening methods and DIY remedies can do permanent damage, a dentist warns.
Some are so harsh they strip away the enamel, leaving healthy young people with dull brown teeth usually only seen in the elderly.
But cheap tooth-whitening methods and DIY remedies can do permanent damage, a dentist warns.
Some are so harsh they strip away the enamel, leaving healthy young people with dull brown teeth usually only seen in the elderly.
Ken Harris, a leading cosmetic dentist, said: ‘You only get so much enamel in your life and once it has gone, you are in serious trouble.’
Tooth-whitening has become increasingly popular as Britons seek the Hollywood smile sported by celebrities.
He said they are so desperate for white teeth they ignore warnings on cleaning products saying they are not to be taken internally.
Rinsing with Domestos and Toilet Duck causes chemical burns, while Vim scratches tooth enamel. Dr Harris said: ‘People want white teeth and will move hell and high water in an attempt to get them.’
Others are putting their faith in cut-price treatments offered by beauticians and hairdressers or in kits bought at their local chemist.Dr Harris, who studied tooth-whitening for a master’s degree, warned that the budget bleaching sessions are at best useless and at worst dangerous. His research shows that only hydrogen peroxide and derivatives of it, such as carbamide peroxide, whiten teeth.
However, some beauticians use chlorine dioxide, which is better known as swimming pool bleach.
It eats away at the enamel, exposing the dentine below, which looks brown. Dr Harris, of Riveredge Cosmetic Dentistry in Sunderland, also warns against buying kits online. Some contain five times as much carbamide peroxide as needed.
They will whiten teeth but also leave them extremely sensitive. Dr Harris said kits sold in chemists are not harmful but simply do not work as the law bans them from containing hydrogen peroxide.
Some people are under the impression that the citric acid in strawberries and lemon juice whitens teeth. Strawberries do not whiten teeth, while too much lemon juice just damages enamel.
Martin Fallowfield, of the British Dental Association, called the use of swimming pool bleach as a whitener ‘very scary’.
He said it is illegal for anyone other than a dentist to whiten teeth – but some beauticians try to get around this by helping customers with the treatment rather than fully carrying it out.
4 HOLIDAY FOODS THAT MAKE DENTISTS CRINGE
The holidays are here, and that means plenty of delicious food and fun-filled time spent with family. But as the seasonal treats stack up, dentists grow concerned for our pearly whites. Plus, in close quarters next to uncles and grandmas and cousins, one of the last things anyone wants is bad breath. So, take a look at these foods that give dentists the holiday blues:
Eggnog
As tasty as this Christmas tradition is, eggnog is a doozy for your oral health. The drink is loaded with sugar and fat - a recipe that yields 6 cups calls for a 1/3 cup sugar, plus 1 pint of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. The sugar coats teeth for hours after consumption, working to wear away at dental enamel. To worsen things, bourbon, rum or brandy (common liquors added to eggnog) may induce dry mouth later on in the night. Without enough saliva, the mouth becomes vulnerable for bacteria growth that can create raunchy breath and tooth decay. To have your eggnog and drink it too, rinse your mouth with water afterward or better yet, after each sip.
Candy canes
Candy canes are pure sugar - the two main ingredients are sugar and corn syrup. As you know, sugar wreaks havoc on teeth and is the one of the leading causes of tooth decay. However, besides these ingredients, a big reason why dentists advise limiting this treat is the prolonged time it spends on your pearly whites. Hard candies take longer to eat, which drenches your mouth in sugar for hours. If Santa drops these treats in your stocking this year, he should also consider pairing them with some toothpaste and teeth whitening kits.
Potato latkes
A staple in the Jewish tradition for Hanukkah, potato latkes are shallow-fried pancakes made of grated potato, flour and egg. While the potato pancake itself is not too threatening, many people dip it in sides like table sugar. Instead, make a point to eat them with sugar-reduced apple sauce or on their own.
Caramel popcorn
Caramel in all shapes and forms make dentists wary. Worse than hard candy, this sticky substance clings to dental enamel long after being eaten. When it's drizzled on popcorn, gooey-covered pieces tend to get lodged between teeth. No wonder you're picking at your molars. A good rule to stand by: Sugar should stay in the mouth as briefly as possible. In other words, leave the caramel popcorn on the shelf when you're watching Christmas movies on repeat.
While no one's saying you must abstain from these treats completely, just make sure to eat them in moderation. The best thing you can do for your smile this season is avoid grazing on foods over long periods of time. When you snack on munchies, food particles linger on your teeth and gums, which can cause irritation. It's also helpful to rinse down treats with water.
Source:
Eggnog
As tasty as this Christmas tradition is, eggnog is a doozy for your oral health. The drink is loaded with sugar and fat - a recipe that yields 6 cups calls for a 1/3 cup sugar, plus 1 pint of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. The sugar coats teeth for hours after consumption, working to wear away at dental enamel. To worsen things, bourbon, rum or brandy (common liquors added to eggnog) may induce dry mouth later on in the night. Without enough saliva, the mouth becomes vulnerable for bacteria growth that can create raunchy breath and tooth decay. To have your eggnog and drink it too, rinse your mouth with water afterward or better yet, after each sip.
Candy canes
Candy canes are pure sugar - the two main ingredients are sugar and corn syrup. As you know, sugar wreaks havoc on teeth and is the one of the leading causes of tooth decay. However, besides these ingredients, a big reason why dentists advise limiting this treat is the prolonged time it spends on your pearly whites. Hard candies take longer to eat, which drenches your mouth in sugar for hours. If Santa drops these treats in your stocking this year, he should also consider pairing them with some toothpaste and teeth whitening kits.
Potato latkes
A staple in the Jewish tradition for Hanukkah, potato latkes are shallow-fried pancakes made of grated potato, flour and egg. While the potato pancake itself is not too threatening, many people dip it in sides like table sugar. Instead, make a point to eat them with sugar-reduced apple sauce or on their own.
Caramel popcorn
Caramel in all shapes and forms make dentists wary. Worse than hard candy, this sticky substance clings to dental enamel long after being eaten. When it's drizzled on popcorn, gooey-covered pieces tend to get lodged between teeth. No wonder you're picking at your molars. A good rule to stand by: Sugar should stay in the mouth as briefly as possible. In other words, leave the caramel popcorn on the shelf when you're watching Christmas movies on repeat.
While no one's saying you must abstain from these treats completely, just make sure to eat them in moderation. The best thing you can do for your smile this season is avoid grazing on foods over long periods of time. When you snack on munchies, food particles linger on your teeth and gums, which can cause irritation. It's also helpful to rinse down treats with water.
Source:
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