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Oral Health And Whole Body Health Are Closely Linked

October 29, 2014

Filed under: Blog — @ 11:52 am

THERE ARE MORE BACTERIA IN YOUR MOUTH RIGHT THIS MINUTE than there are people on this planet. Thoughtful dental health is about SO much more than avoiding cavities. Preventative dental care is essential to an overall healthy lifestyle.

Mouth Bacteria Can Spread To Other Parts Of Our Bodies

Neglecting one’s oral health can have very serious consequences. Something as seemingly harmless as bleeding gums—a sign of gum disease—is equivalent to an open wound that allows bacteria to enter the bloodstream and affect the rest of the body.

Many Studies Link Dental Health To Whole Body Health

A growing body of research suggests that gum disease can increase your risk of dangerous health problems, including…

  • Diabetes
  • Endocarditis & Cardiovascular Disease
  • Osteoporosis
  • Strokes
  • Alzheimer’s Disease

A First Line Of Detection For Serious Diseases

It surprises people to learn that dentists are often first to discover health conditions like HIV, diabetes, and some forms of cancer. In part, that’s because we typically see you more often than your physician does. Another reason is that certain health problems affect conditions inside your mouth and we’re trained to see that. So it goes both ways… Our oral health provides clues to our whole body health, AND our whole body health can affect our oral health.

What Can You Do?

It’s as simple as it is important. Consistently and thoroughly brush and floss to keep bacteria under control. Never skip regular cleanings and checkups. Let us help you monitor the critical relationship between your oral and overall health.

Thank you so much for the trust you place in us. We appreciate you.

Top image by Flikr user Nan Palmero used under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. Image cropped from original.

Wear (and maintain) Your Mouthguard!

October 22, 2014

Filed under: Blog — @ 11:02 am

LET’S TALK ABOUT TWO THINGS. First, the importance of wearing a mouthguard if you (or someone you care for) is involved in just about any type of sport. And second, the importance of maintaining that mouthguard.

Mouthguards provide far more value than simply protecting teeth. They also help prevent head injuries. How? Mouthguards act as a “shock absorber” to help cushion the head against sports-related concussions. Young or old athlete, and regardless of the sport, they just make sense.

Whether You’re An NFL Linebacker, Middle-Aged Weekend Warrior, Or Little League Short Stop

Take a couple of minutes to learn about mouthguards from this short video:

3 Ways To Keep Your Mouthguard In Great Condition

Clean It Frequently

  • Rinse it with cool water after every use.
  • Gently brush it occasionally with toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Avoid hot water as it may change the fit.
  • For a deep cleaning, try denture cleaner.

Be Responsible

  • Don’t chew on your mouthguard.
  • Keep it in a hard, protective container that allows for air flow.
  • Don’t leave it in direct sunlight or in a hot car. This can distort the guard.

Get It Checked Regularly

  • Bring your mouthguard with you when you visit us. We’ll make sure it fits correctly and protects your smile.
  • If you wear braces or have a protruding jaw, talk to us about the best options.

Take Good Care Of Your Mouthguard, And It Will Take Care Of Your Smile

Mouthguards are the best defense for your smile on the field and on the court. Don’t have a mouthguard? Talk to us. And if you have any questions about mouthguards, please let us know.

Thanks for trusting us with your dental health!

How To Love Every Photo Taken Of You

October 15, 2014

Filed under: Blog — @ 1:02 pm

SOME PEOPLE ARE JUST LUCKY! They seem to look fantastic in every photograph! Naturally photogenic. For the rest of us… Well, sometimes we just don’t know what to do (or what to think about) when the camera comes out. Here are some great tips:

1. Try Smiling With Your Eyes Too

This can be the difference between a genuine smile and a fake-looking smile. Practice thinking of something that makes you laugh right before the camera clicks.

2. Work With The Angles

Straight-on photos are rarely the best angle. Turn your body slightly away from the camera, and/or tilt your head a little to catch the light. Not sure which angles look best on you? Start paying attention, then practice!

3. Wear Lipstick That Makes Your Smile Pop

The right shade(s) can make your teeth look whiter and your smile brighter!

4. Be Confident In Your Smile

Sometimes it’s less about how you look, and more about how you feel! The best photographs happen when we’re feeling confident, attractive, and healthy. If you’re not satisfied with your smile, we can help.

Ready For Some Close-Ups?

Are there holidays or special events coming up in your life? If so, chances are there are going to be lots of photos taken. Everyone has a camera now, right? Let’s visit about ways to help you prepare your smile. Sometimes, something as simple as a cleaning and polish can give your smile that extra shine.

Thanks for being a valued part of our practice!

We appreciate having you as our patient.

Why Biting Down On Aluminum Foil Hurts

October 8, 2014

Filed under: Blog — @ 11:03 am

HAVE YOU EVER accidentally bitten down on a little piece of aluminum foil? Have you experienced that quick zap of pain?

That Jolt Is Called Galvanic Shock

Perhaps a little piece of foil was clinging to the tortilla when you unwrapped your taco during lunch. When that foil came in contact with metal in your mouth (such as an amalgam filling, a metal crown, or braces) it created a little electrical shock!

Here’s How It Works

The discomfort comes from two different types of metal interacting with each other. These dissimilar metals—with help from our saliva—create something akin to a very low powered battery. When we bite down the stored electric charge flows through the teeth to our nerves, and our brain interprets the nerve’s signal as pain.

4 Aluminum Foil Uses That Are Better Than Biting It

  • Sharpen dull scissors. Just fold up a few strips and start cutting!
  • Soften brown sugar by wrapping it in foil and baking it for 5 minutes at 300° F.
  • Moving a couch? Put foil (dull side down) under the legs to glide across the floor.
  • Clean your iron by ironing over a piece of foil to get rid of build-up.

Share Your Story OR A Foil Recommendation

Steer clear of sneaky foil pieces in food! If you have another useful tip for using aluminum foil, share it below!

Thanks for being a part of our practice family!