Wednesday, 19 August 2015 17:13

Tips for Making Brushing Fun

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Good oral health habits start when children are young. Our Ooltewah dentist understands that it can be a challenge to get your children to brush their teeth. Here are a few helpful tips to make teeth brushing a little more fun: Try brushing your teeth with your children. Children mimic the behavior of their parents, so why not teach them better brushing techniques. Brush your teeth for 2 minutes alongside your child and then follow up with those flossing skills. Use a sand or kitchen timer to help ensure that your children are brushing their teeth for the recommended 2 minutes. Allow your child to start the timer themselves then start brushing. Let your child select the toothbrush and toothpaste of their choice. There are a variety of toothbrushes specially designed for children complete with bright colors or their favorite characters. Also let them choose toothpaste in a fun, fruity…
Thursday, 23 July 2015 17:48

The Effects of Smoking

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Bad breath, tooth discoloration, plaque buildup, gum disease, tooth loss and oral cancer are all side effects of smoking. The damages caused by smoking can impact your oral health, just as it does your overall health. Statistics have found that 50% of smoking adults have gum disease and are approximately twice as likely to lose their teeth or need a root canal. When it comes to tobacco products there isn’t one product that is any safer than another. Both cause damages that extend beyond the mouth. Smoking and smokeless tobacco products both affect the soft tissue and bone attachment. Tobacco use also leaves smokers more susceptible to infections and gum disease. The chemicals found in these products also increase the risk oral, throat and esophageal cancers. Smokeless tobacco irritates the gums and as a result, the gums begin to separate from the teeth. This separation can increase the risk of…
Thursday, 23 July 2015 17:44

Teen Dental Care: Fact or False

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Q: Energy drinks don’t cause cavities? A: Energy drinks are filled with sugar, which can be damaging to your teeth. Bacteria and plaque on your teeth use sugar as a means of growth. The sugar also acts like a glue and can cause the bacteria to stick to the teeth and can ultimately lead to tooth decay. To combat the problem, limit the number of sugary drinks you consume. After drinking something sweet, rinse your mouth with water and remember to brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Q: Tobacco isn’t bad for your mouth, teeth and gums? A: All types of tobacco are harmful to your health. Bad breath, tooth discoloration, plaque buildup, gum disease, tooth loss and oral cancer are all side effects of smoking. The easiest way to prevent these conditions is to stop smoking. Q: Mouth protection is necessary when playing sports? A: Mouth guards…
Thursday, 07 May 2015 13:55

Selecting the Correct Toothbrush

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With a variety of toothbrushes on the market, it can be difficult to select the one best suited to your needs. From soft to hard bristles to electric options, deciding on the perfect style can be a challenge. Here are a few tips from our Ooltewah dentist to help you select the perfect brush: ·         Soft bristled brushes are the best for removing plaque and debris. These brushes are also good for brushing hard to reach areas. ·         Don’t purchase those cheap, no name brushes. A brush made of quality materials will help to give you the best clean possible. ·         As for the handle grip or bristle shape, it is a matter of personal preference. Select an option that is comfortable and allows you to easily reach your teeth. ·         If you have limited dexterity or problems brushing, an electric toothbrush may be a good fit. ·         Toothbrushes come…
Thursday, 19 February 2015 16:10

Tips for Better Oral Health

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Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, so it’s important to keep it at its best. Brushing and flossing are important to overall dental health, but there are other steps you can take to keep your teeth pearly white. Visit the Dentist It is estimated that approximately 50% of adults in the United States do not have yearly dental appointments. One of the best ways to keep your teeth at their healthiest is by visiting the dentist twice a year. Regular dental visits will help to catch issues like decay and gum disease while they are still in treatable stages. Brushing & Flossing Good dental health starts with proper brushing and flossing. Bacteria and food particles can linger in your mouth long after meals. Brushing twice a day can help to remove the food build up. When brushing it is important to in gentle, short,…
Wednesday, 10 December 2014 12:05

Caring for Your Cosmetic Dental Procedure

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Your smile is one of your best features, and usually the first thing people notice. If you are less than pleased with your pearly whites, cosmetic dentistry may be the answer to your dental issues. Cosmetic dental procedures such as teeth whitening, dental veneers, and dental implants can all provide a permanent improvement and give you the confidence you need to really make your smile shine. Like any other medical procedure, there are steps you should take to maintain the results of your cosmetic dentistry enhancements. Following your treatment, there will be instructions for care and for maximizing the benefits of the procedure. It is important that you follow these instructions and contact your dentist if a problem should arise. Additionally, there are a few other behaviors to avoid if you want to keep your smile at its best. To keep your smile at its brightest, you will want to…
Monday, 17 November 2014 12:01

The Effects of Sugar on Your Teeth

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Sugar can be one of the worst foods for your dental health, often leading to tooth decay and enamel erosion. The oral bacteria, plaque, use the sugar as energy to grow and strengthen in thickness. Without a proper brushing after eating, the plaque will eat away at the enamel eventually resulting in cavities and tooth decay.In addition to a decline in tooth health, plaque can irritate gums making them more sensitive and susceptible to bleeding and gum disease. When the gums and teeth become separated, the resulting pockets can fill with bacteria and when left untreated can destroy the bone around the tooth causing loose teeth.Here are a few tips to increase your overall oral health: Eat a healthy and balanced diet. Don’t eliminate entire food groups as that can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Use a straw when drinking sugary or carbonated beverages to limit direct contact with…
Wednesday, 29 October 2014 08:47

Your Guide for Dental Emergencies

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A dental emergency, like any other medical emergency is something that should be taken seriously. When left untreated, the problem could increase your risk for more expensive and extensive treatment in the future. Here is a quick guide to treating your dental emergencies: Toothaches Toothaches are a common and there are several things you can do to reduce the discomfort. Using a soft-bristle toothbrush or floss gently clean and remove any food particles, then rinse with warm salt water. If you are experiencing swelling, place a cold compress on the affected area to help reduce the pain. Refrain from placing aspirin against the gum as it can burn the gum tissue. Lost Tooth If your tooth is knocked out, it is important to see your dentist immediately. The highest chance of having the tooth re-implanted come when they are returned to their socket within an hour of being lost. After…
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