Blogs

Risk Factors of Gum Disease

Gum disease is inflammatory and affects tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. It is also one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. You may not have experienced gum disease as of yet, but here are some factors that put you at risk.

1. Smoking/using tobacco products. This “hobby” is one of the most significant factors that lead to the development of gum disease. According to the CDC, smokers have twice the risk of developing gum disease compared to non-smokers. The more you smoke and the longer you smoke, the greater that risk becomes. This isn’t just for cigarette smokers; this also applies to users of pipes and smokeless tobacco.

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Warning Signs of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is inflammatory and affects tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. How does it form? When food becomes trapped in the space between our teeth and gums, bacteria builds up as plaque due to failing at brushing and flossing as we should.

The plaque advances harden, and turns into tartar. When plaque extends below the gum line, the gums become infected. This is known as gingivitis; if left untreated, it will turn into periodontitis, which is where gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. Plaque spreads below the gum line as your body fights the bacteria. Bone and connective tissues that hold teeth in place are likely to be broken down with bacteria, causing teeth to become loose or fall out.

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Four Ways Drinking Water Helps Improve a Smile

There are so many benefits to drinking water. Maintaining hydration helps our bodies distribute nutrients, removes waste, keeps our muscles moving, and helps provide a healthy glow for our skin. Our teeth also see many benefits from water consumption. Here are four ways drinking water helps improve that beautiful smile on your face.

1. Water makes our teeth stronger. Fluoride, when used in drinking water, helps prevent tooth decay. Fluoride is also found in tap water.

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Five Easy Ways to Prevent Cavities

The second most common disease in America is tooth decay. One in four adults has cavities and unfortunately doesn’t treat this issue. As for teens, more than half of the population has had cavities. Needless to say, it’s important to brush and floss your teeth every day to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Here are five easy ways to prevent cavities.

1. Find out your risk level. The best way to determine your risk of developing cavities is by having a comprehensive dental exam. Your dentist will be able to tell you your chances of developing cavities and which treatments will be best for you. They can also suggest changes in oral hygiene and in your diet that will help decrease the risk. Dental exams are quite beneficial, as they will also determine how often you will need to visit.

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Bad Dental Habits You Should Change

When you hear the words “bad dental habits,” what do you think of? We all are capable of committing them, even those of us who brush twice a day, floss on a regular basis, and maintain appointments with our dentist. It is these bad habits mentioned below that can overshadow all of the good habits we practice when it comes to our dental health.

1. Crunching on hard foods. While some of us may enjoy eating ice, this can cause hard to spot fractures in the surface of the teeth’s enamel, which can lead to issues that are much worse if the problem goes unresolved. We aren’t saying you have to quit eating ice, but try to get crushed ice if possible since the pieces are smaller. Popcorn kernels also cause fractures, as well as fruit pits. Aim for healthier snacks to crunch on, such as celery or carrots.

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How to Have a Happy, Cavity-Free Halloween

For many, especially children, Halloween is the most wonderful time of the year. Costumes, Jack-o-lanterns, scary movies… Did we mention candy? So much candy, in fact! While it’s tempting to indulge in all this month’s treats have to offer, don’t overdo it and trick yourself into getting cavities! Here are some ways to have a better Halloween without depriving yourself completely.

1. Choose wisely. When it comes to picking out candy, select the options that are the least harmful to the teeth. Refrain from caramels, hard candies, and items that are acidic and chewy. Chocolate is the better choice here, as this type of candy can be swallowed easily and doesn’t stick to our teeth.

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Tips to Consider When Traveling

If you’re planning to go out of town on a business trip or if you’re taking that vacation of a lifetime, we’re sure you have a lengthy checklist of things to accomplish before jet-setting out of town. Here are some tips to consider in regards to your teeth.

1. Schedule a checkup before leaving. If it has been a while since you’ve had a cleaning, now is the time to make an appointment. A thorough examination will let you know if any issues are present; if so, they can be taken care of immediately and your trip will be free of that burden.

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Helpful Tips to Remember

1. Strive for healthy, not perfect. When it comes to your teeth, it’s always best to keep health as the top priority. Everyone’s smile is unique, but not everyone’s teeth are healthy.

2. Self-care at home is extremely important. It’s recommended to visit your dentist every six months for a checkup/cleaning. The rest is left up to you! While it’s possible for cavities or other issues to arise, it’s up to you to maintain your teeth. Create a hygiene routine that works for you and stick to it, preferably one that includes brushing for two to three minutes twice a day after meals and flossing at least once a day.

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Easy Self-Care Tips for Your Teeth

Keeping up with your dentist appointments is important for maintaining a beautiful smile, but did you know there are steps you can take at home as well? Here some tips to follow to keep that smile of yours sparkling like new.

1. Clean twice a day. Yes, it’s true – brushing your teeth at least twice a day is important! This should occur after meals. Toothbrushes with smaller heads allow you to easily access the back teeth; ones with soft bristles are even better, as these are gentle on gums.

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