Nail Biting and Your Oral Heath
Nail biting not only affects the appearance of your nails, but can chip, crack, or break your teeth. It can even cause jaw problems. The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), reported that people who bite their nails are at increased risk for bruxism, or tooth grinding. Of course, don’t forget your hands and nails are a host for germs and bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli which can be easily transferred into the body through nail biting. The following tips can help you break the habit to protect your teeth and overall health. Keep your nails trimmed short. Apply something with a bitter-taste to […]
What Is the Best Time to Clean Between Your Teeth—Before or After Brushing?
The most important take home message about cleaning between your teeth is to do it. As long as you do a thorough job, it does not matter if you floss first or brush first. Pick a time of day when you can devote an extra couple of minutes to your dental care. People who are too tired at the end of the day may benefit from cleaning between their teeth first thing in the morning or after lunch. Others might like to go to bed with a clean mouth. And don’t forget, children need to clean between their teeth too! […]
Six ways to prevent tooth decay in children
Care, don’t share Don’t share utensils with your child or “clean” a pacifier by putting it in your mouth. You can transfer cavity-causing germs to your child. Eat healthy and drink fluoridated water Get fruits and vegetables into your diet. First dental visit no later than age 1 Your child’s baby teeth are at risk for decay as soon as they first appear—which is typically around age six months. Seal out decay Ask your dentist about applying dental sealants to chewing surfaces of teeth. Use fluoride toothpaste as soon as teeth come through the gums. Most children age 6 and under […]
Winter Sensitivity
As the temperatures start to dip and the snow starts to fall, you may notice your teeth are more sensitive when you are outside. Sometimes, people tend to clench their teeth and tense up when they are out in the cold. Clenching can cause jaw and teeth erosion issues which cause sensitivity. Sipping hot chocolate or coffee may feel comforting while being out on a cold day, but the temperature difference can cause sensitivity. The winter months also come with holiday treats. Caramels, candy canes, and peanut brittle to name a few. Sugary treats put you at a higher risk […]
Wisdom Teeth
Third molars, otherwise known as wisdom teeth generally come through or erupt at a more mature age between 17 and 21. Anthropologists believe we have wisdom teeth because our ancestor’s early diet required more chewing power. With today’s expanded food choices and cooking techniques, the third molars are not necessary for function. If wisdom teeth come in with proper alignment, they generally work with the other molars in chewing. With the help of dental x-rays, we are able to determine if your wisdom teeth will be properly aligned. Poor alignment of wisdom teeth can crowd or damage adjacent teeth, the jawbone, […]