IS LOVE RISKY? You’ll have to answer that question on your own! But there’s one component—kissing—that our practice would like to briefly address below (along with some advice from the Academy of General Dentistry).

Bacteria Can Lead To Increased Plaque Which Can Lead To Tooth Decay

We know it’s not pleasant to think about, but it’s true—your mouth is full of bacteria. Some of it’s good and some of it isn’t. For the most part, your body (and your mouth, specifically) does a pretty good job of keeping bacteria, germs, and viruses that make their way into your mouth in check. But increased bacteria can also lead to increased plaque. Maintaining great oral hygiene habits is the very best way you can help your mouth do its job.

Kissing Introduces Your Mouth To Someone Else’s Bacteria And Viruses

Now there’s no need to make this a huge cause for worry. Our team just wants to be sure that you know about the most common viruses and diseases that you could be sharing with a smooch:

• Cold Sores – Cold sores are a manifestation of a herpes virus. Even when there are no signs, it can be contagious.
• Colds And Flus – Lots of viruses are included under the blanket “common cold” term. Colds happen, but you can decrease the spread by avoiding kissing while you’re sick.
• Mononucleosis – Also known as mono, glandular fever, or the kissing disease. It’s caused by a virus infection that’s easily spread by saliva, and can knock you out for weeks.

Yes, There Are Lots Of Kissing Positives Too

We’re not condemning kissing! Think about the benefits! Kissing increases saliva flow, which is great for your teeth and oral health. And of course, an affectionate peck can make you happier and strengthen relationships, which leads to better overall health and wellbeing. So don’t put the brakes on a great relationship just because you’re worried about germs! Just be smart, make sure that you maintain great oral hygiene, and that you always know who’s on the other end of that kiss.

It’s NOT Valentine’s Day, But We Couldn’t Help Having A Little Fun With This

Any Questions About All This?

We love answering your questions about ANY dental or oral-health related matter. It gives us a chance to know you better. You can also read the full article from the Academy of General Dentistry if you’d like. Give us a call, leave a comment below, or send us a direct message on our Facebook page. We’re always happy to discuss things with you!

Thanks again for the trust you place in us! We value your friendship!

ACCORDING TO THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS, TOOTH DECAY is one of our most common, modern-day chronic diseases. In fact, by the time children begin kindergarten, 40 percent have some kind of tooth decay! Remember, just because your children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews aren’t complaining about tooth pain (and their teeth “look” OK), it doesn’t necessarily mean their teeth are OK.

Fall is a great time to assess your health goals and get back on track after a leisurely summer. Let our practice help. Be sure dental checkups are part of your back-to-school checklist.

Typically Included In A Regular Checkup Or Back-To-School Exam:

Here are some of the services we typically take care of during regular checkups and back-to-school exams:

1. Thorough Cleaning: Professional cleanings help prevent gum disease—keeping your teeth healthier, longer.
2. Checking For Cavities: Take care of cavities before they become bigger problems, leading to pain and tooth loss.
3. Checking Existing Dental Work: We check fillings, crowns, sealants, etc.
4. Examining Oral Tissue & Jaw Function: Early detection helps prevent oral cancer and related problems.
5. Fluoride Application: For cavity prevention.

Important Things You Can Do

1. Have your children brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Remind them to brush gently and pay special attention to their gum line.
2. Teach the good habit of flossing each day.
3. Give kids healthier snack foods such as fresh fruits and veggies.
4. Limit sugary snacks & high-carb foods. The bacteria that cause tooth decay love simple sugars—especially those in treats.
5. If the children in your life like to chew gum, offer sugar-free options.
6. Always talk with our team if you notice any unusual oral health changes.

A big part of our role is helping parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts better monitor children’s oral (and overall) health. Preventative dental care is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and for your family! So be sure to contact us if it’s time for your regular appointments.

Thanks for being our valued patient! Send us a note below, or a direct message on Facebook if you have any questions or concerns.

We look forward to seeing you at your next visit!

WE KNOW YOU HEAR A LOT FROM OUR TEAM about the importance of brushing and flossing for great oral health. But there are other things (we tend to talk less about) that can really assist you, your family members and friends in maintaining a beautiful smile. Healthy eating is one of them.

Eating Right Helps Fend Off Plaque, Gingivitis, And Periodontal Disease

Your tooth enamel is your smile’s first defense against decay. When your enamel becomes damaged (or erodes) you become more prone to tooth sensitivity and cavities. Your diet can have a lot to do with replenishing those things in your body that help strengthen tooth enamel. Calcium is one of those things. Also, foods rich in vitamin D (like salmon) allow you to better absorb the calcium that healthy teeth need.

“Super-Smile” Foods That May Surprise You

1. Broccoli – Broccoli has been shown to create an acid-resistant teeth “shield”.
2. Onions – Onions have properties that fight bacteria in your mouth.
3. Kiwi (Vitamin C) – The little fuzzy guys are packed with more Vitamin C than any other fruit. A lack of Vitamin C can break down the collagen network in your gums, making them tender and more susceptible to bacteria and gum disease.
4. Celery – Celery is like an edible tooth-scrubber. Because of its fibrous material, it massages gums, cleans teeth, and encourages saliva production (a major plus).
5. Other Crunchy Veggies – Other crunchy vegetables and fruits like apples or carrots are also great for your smile.
6. Quinoa (pronounced “KEEN-wah”) – This little grain is loaded with minerals and vitamins that support and reinforce your teeth.
7. Shiitaki Mushrooms – These yummy mushrooms contain a sugar called Lentinan that helps prevent mouth bacteria from growing.
8. Sesame Seeds – Sesame seeds help your teeth in two ways. First, they act as little scrubbers, clearing up plaque on your teeth. Second, they supply lots of calcium.

Awesome, Downloadable Recipe eBook

Wondering how you’re going to work teeth-friendly foods into your daily routine and family meals? Here’s a fantastic resource. The downloadable eBook below combines know-how from a gourmet cook, a nutritionist, and a cosmetic dentist to feature gourmet recipes using the super-smile foods listed above (and many others). Enjoy!

Stay tuned to our blog for more great ideas to help keep your mouth healthy. We always love hearing from you too. Contact us any time you have questions—regardless of the subject. We’ll get back to you right away. You can also always comment below, or send us a direct message from our Facebook page. By the way, you can click on the image below to watch a video from Colgate that contains additional information about the relationship between eating a balanced diet, and your oral health:

Happy food prep (and eating)!

And as always, thanks for being our friends and a valued part of our practice.

NO, YOU’RE NOT THE ONLY ONE who enjoys sneaking a late-night snack. We know how it is. Some things just taste better after midnight, right? But did you know that late-night snacking can actually have a negative impact on your teeth?

A 2010 Denmark study found correlations between late-night snacking and tooth loss. From a research group of over 2,000 adults, 8% were classified as “nocturnal eaters”. Over a six-year period, members of this group were found to have a greatly increased risk of tooth loss.

Ever Wonder Why We Brush Before Bedtime?

Traditionally, before bed is a good time to take care of your oral health and beauty regimes. There’s good reason for that. During the night, saliva production slows down. Saliva is pivotal in keeping your mouth clean—washing away leftover food and reinforcing tooth enamel. It’s like your mouth’s police force. Your mouth minus saliva’s full effects—combined with teeth that aren’t clean—leaves bacteria and plaque to better wreak havoc throughout the night.There’s another reason too. When you have midnight snacks, what do they typically consist of? Carrot and celery sticks? Probably not. They usually end up being something like leftover birthday cake or cold pizza! Sugars and starches are some of the worst culprits when it comes to tooth decay causes.

What To Do About It

Here’s advice from our practice for facing late-night eating temptation:

• If you have a snack, rinse or brush your teeth afterward.
• Try not to eat or drink anything but water during the hour prior to going to bed.
• When snacking fever strikes, opt for healthier foods.

And if you think you have habits that are putting your oral health at risk, contact us and we’ll visit. You can also send us a direct message on Facebook, or comment below if you have thoughts or questions.

As always, thanks. Thank you for being our valued patients and friends.