PH balance and the effect on oral and overall health
The normal PH of the body should be 7, which is neutral. Water has a PH of 7. The relationship between energy drinks, soft drinks, fruit juices, and sports drinks is a concern for the oral PH and overall health. These drinks significantly lower the PH of the oral cavity. Low PH can demineralize enamel [...]
read morePacifier Habit and Thumbsuckers
The sucking urge provides pleasure and nourishment and is a normal part of infant development. Because sucking is also comforting, many babies continue to suck long beyond what is nutritionally necessary. Many babies will satisfy these sucking urges with fingers, thumbs, or pacifiers. Pacifiers Research suggests there is little or no advantage in using orthodontic [...]
read moreBaby Bottle Tooth Decay
What causes tooth decay? A thin, sticky, colorless film of bacteria called plaque forms on your teeth. The bacteria in the plaque produce acid that can attack tooth enamel. When sugary food or drinks remain in the mouth after eating or drinking, the bacteria have more time to produce decay-causing acid. What is baby bottle [...]
read moreMouthguards for Children
If your child is involved in team sports or recreational activities, mouthguards can help protect their teeth, lips, and tongue. A beautiful smile is worth protecting! Below is a video about mouthguards from the American Dental Association.
read moreIncrease in dental decay among preschool children
The NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams and the Today Show aired a story about the increase of dental decay among preschool children. According to the Centers for Disease Control, tooth decay in children ages two through five is on the rise. Click here to see the video.
read moreThe Stages of Gum Disease
If your gums are tender or bleeding, chances are you have gum disease! Gum disease is an infectious disease that starts between your tooth and gum tissue. Bacteria live there and when too many move in, they form plaque. Plaque and tartar (hard build-up) irritate your gums, which causes swelling and bleeding. Serious gum disease [...]
read moreSealants: Tooth Decay Prevention
What is sealant? It is a white plastic (resin) material applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The resin bonds to the depressions and grooves in the back teeth. The uneven surfaces of the back teeth can be difficult to keep clean since toothbrush bristles cannot reach into them. Most tooth decay occurs [...]
read more8 Steps To A Healthy Smile
Your baby should never to go bed with a nursing bottle, containing milk or juice. Clean her gums with soft cloth or gauze daily. Your child should eat a balanced diet to build strong bones, decay-resistant teeth, healthy gums. Limit your child’s snacks – no more than three or four times a day. Research has [...]
read moreCare of Your Teeth When You Have Braces or Appliances
Proper brushing is vital to good oral health. Equally important is avoiding certain foods that are particularly damaging to appliances or extremely difficult to remove by brushing. Be sure to check after rinsing, and if your teeth and brackets are not clean and shining . . . .brush again. Brush all your teeth and appliances [...]
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